Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 - MINUTES - 3/19/1997 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL MINUTES March 19, 1997 A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, was called to order by Mayor Meindienst, in the Council Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on Wednesday, March 19, 1997 at 5:30 p.m., at which time, the City Attorney announced items to be discussed in Closed Session, and at 7:00 p.m., the meeting was convened in open session. ' ROLL CALL: Present: Councilmembers Barnes, I-lodges, Oden, Spurgin, and Mayor Kleindienst Absent: None The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag, led by Boy Scout Troop 262, and an invocation by Dr. John Blayney, Church of Religious Science. REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in accordance with Council procedures on March 14, 1997. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY ON MATTERS DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION (All Entities) -See items on Page 4 of agenda this date. . HOUSING AUTHORITY: FINANCING AUTHORITY: INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY -No business PRESENTATIONS: Library Board President, re "McCallum Saga" PSHS Student Body Report Proclamation: Diabetes Awareness Day CDBG Update COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: Mayor declared the meeting adjourned for the put-pose of convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency; after which, members reconvened as the City Council. COUNCIL COMMENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS a) Mayor announced upcoming events of interest community wide. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. C.U.P. 5.0734 - L.A. CELLULAR: Recommendation: That the Council approve a conditional use permit for a 60-ft high communications amenma on a monopole, and a one-story equipment shelter, at 2500 Executive Drive, Sec. 6. Director of Planning & Building reviewed his report, noting that minor wording changes (078_ have been made to the conditions of approval recommended by the City Attorney, and he displayed the project on the board. Mayor declared the hearing open. Ray Johnson, representing L.A. Cellular, indicated he was available for questions. There were no other appearances, and the hearing was closed. In response to questions by Council, Director of Planning & Building reported that the 60- ft height will be monitored; that there have been a number of requests for such poles, and with Federal regulation changes, a number of firms are qualified, of which five may be in the Valley; and that his staff will be looking at locations where consolidation of these poles may be possible; that there are others in other Valley cities, some as high as 90-100 ft.; and that there is a big need for them because of the technological demand. 0040 Council Agenda 3-19-97, Page 2 1. C.U.P. 5.0734 - L.A. CELLULAR (Continued) Mayor stated that it is important that there be efficient telecommunication systems for cellular systems, and he supports that as long as they are done properly; and he questioned if there has been consideration given as to how the City might utilize the poles for its emergency or daily broadcasting needs. , Discussion followed regarding the possibility as suggested by the Mayor, in which Mr. Johnson provided assurance that L.A. Cellular was willing to work with the staff to explore this option, and that he did not think there would be any problems as long as Cie equipment fits and does not over-tax the structure. City Attorney suggested that as a condition of approval, the Council include that this matter be explored; noting that it would not preclude the applicant from proceeding, but would provide the basis for such discussion. Resolution 19000 as recommended, was presented; after which„ it was moved by Odell, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that R19000 be adopted, with condition that the applicant explore with the staff the possible shared usage of the pole for City emergency and/or daily radio transmitting. 2. PD 247 - AARONSON Recommendation: That the Council approve a preliminary and .final planned development district in-lieu of a change of zone to use C-1 development standards for a two-phased project consisting of two office buildings of no more than 9,490 square feet; and introduce ordinance to amend the Zoning Map to add the PD 247 designation, for property at 1221 (1 n- N. Indian Canyon. (Note: First phase includes a 5,490 sq. ft. medical office building/plastic surgery center on the R-3 portion of the site; and phase two is for an office building up to 4,000 sq. ft. in size.) Director of Planning & Building reviewed his memorandum, and noted that such facilities do not typically maximize the required parking; that the property was originally part of the Desert Hospital master plan, and the Hospital has filed an application to remove the property from the master plan; and that the applicant has no problem with the Commission's conditions. He displayed plans of the project, and noted various elements, including a reduced setback on lndian Canyon. Mayor declared die hearing open. Mike Fontana, 1726 N. Palm Canyon, representing the owner, stated that the project was a positive example of a collaborative effort between the owner anadi the City staff, and it took less than six weeks to achieve. There were no further appearances, and the hearing was closed. In response to question by Council, Mr. Fontana stated that the masonry block wall to the north will be stuccoed to create a pleasant view from inside the building, and the fence treatment for the east and west boundaries will be wrought iron; and that the phase two pad site will be hydroseeded, and landscaped with perennials, and should be very attractive during the interim development period. Councilmembers expressed appreciation for, the architecture and quality of the project, and for the cooperative way in which the process was accomplished. City Clerk read title of the Ordinance, as follows: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE ZONING MAP BY APPROVING PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT 247 (PD-247), FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A TWO-PHASED PROJECT CONSISTING OF TWO OFFICE BUILDINGS TOTALING NO MORE THAN 9,490 SQUARE FEET; THE FIRST P14ASE INCLUDES A 5,490 SQUARE FOOT MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDING/PI..ASTIC SURGERY CENTER AND THE SECOND PHASE Council Agenda 3-19-97, Page 3 2. PD 247 -AARONSON (Continued) . INCLUDES UP TO A 4,000 SQUARE FOOT OFFICE BUILDING LOCATED AT 1221 NORTH INDIAN CANYON DRIVE, R-3/G1/PD-185 ZONES, SECTION 10. ' Resolution 19001 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried that R19001 be adopted; that further reading of the Ordinance be waived, and that the Ordinance be introduced for first reading. INTERAGENCY REPORTS: None PUBLIC COMMENTS: a) Comments concerning Item 3: Steve Vericker, resident, urged that the Council reject the theater proposal, noting that it is a good offer, but theaters have not been successful after three attempts in town; that the amount due from VCA is insignificant compared to other debts owed to the City; that VCA has been in the community for 30 years; and that the issue is (117- not about money, but accountability' 023) The following persons spoke concerning internal conflict and actions of the VCA Board which were taken in the past week, and supported, in particular, the theater classes and work of Mr. &Mrs. Storm: 1) Jim Toenjes, resident and instructor at VCA, also suggested that the City adopt the center as a community cultural center for the arts, in partnership with VCA. He referred to a letter from Ann Wilson, also in support of the Storms. 2) Martha Putnam, resident, considered that the ' theater program is the backbome of the VCA, and it should be reinstated; and 3) Carmen Rivera, resident and middle-school teacher, asked the Council to form a committee to look at what the VCA Board has done; that she considered it has become self-serving, and has not itself taken into consideration the very thing the City Council was being asked to consider at the last meeting, i.e., a place for kids to have a Iheater program. Jackie Storm staled that there is a growing schism between the VCA Board and the community, and a lack of communication; that information was not distributed for two weeks, nor any effort to consider combining VCA and Mr. Layne's programs; that the VCA proposal lacks specifics, and she, was surprised by its Board action this week; which was done behind closed doors; that a similar situation occurred six years ago, and she felt the community still has hurt feelings over it; and that perhaps a new organization can come out of all of this, one that is not burdened by the past. Karen Wirtheemer, resident, and member of the VCA Board, stated that the Storms have been at VCA for one year, and that Mrs. Storm was not the head of operations, rather there are two classes conducted between the two people, and that their,dismissal is a personnel matter and not an issue of the City Council. Susan Salk, resident, stated that the Council has made it clear that the issue is communication; that the Board needs to determine what it wants; that the Council should not act too quickly; that a committee should be formed to explore ideas of a partnership for use of the facility. Jeanie Dremel, resident and Secretary to the VCA Board, and a Board member for nearly seven years, apologized for personnel matters being brought to the Council; that there is no question as to the talents of Mr. Storm; that there is no director of VCA right now; that a letter offer of a nearby location was received by the Storms, and turned down by them, without the Board's knowledge or approval; and that Mr.,, Oden did not meet with any Board members, rather there was a misrepresentation by the persons he spoke to. W;42 Council Agenda 3-19-97, Page 4 b) Comments on other matters not related to an agenda item: Shirley Meeks, resident, stated that the sweat equity housing project was wonderful to watch it develop; that the participants were allowed to use chain link fencing, prohibited in the City, and are now required to replace it, which may have been an oversight in the program, and one that should be corrected if tine program is , repeated; and that there may be a need for heavier police patrol at the new Lucky center, as graffiti has already appeared. Darrell Meeks, resident, commented that the community should be told in advance if there are going to be settle booms; that Cathedral City City Council has a high school senior civics student to sit on its panel, and to provide input, not vote, on matters; that he considered it a good idea, and one Palm Springs should consider; that this is the first year he can recall that the Council has not talked about Spring Break, and commented on a flyer distributed by a local businessman to attract college students; and that lie hoped VillageFest would reconsider a particular vendor who makes artistic, signed, eye-glass cases. LEGISLATIVE ACTION: 3. FRANCES STEVENS PARK, - PROPOSED LEASE BY PALM CANYON THEATRE On March 5, the Council continued consideration of proposed pease of a portion of the Frances Stevens Park buildings, pending further discussions by the; City Manager and otter parties, including the Village Center for the Arts. Downtown Development Director reported that the VCA, the Desert Arts Center, and the Palm Canyon Theater (Layne) groups met over the past two weeks, to look at the space at the facility, and to explore possible sharing of die space; that the lease proposal has been revised to reflect shared space, exclusive of the auditorium; that the point has been reached I I7" in the development of the master plan to know what activities will be both .inside and 023) outside of the buildings; that flexibility may be needed for VCA in terms of off-site potentials, and then a re-examination of that after the first phase study is done; that it appears supportable, at least in theory; that the Laynes are willing to work with both groups, but have been looking at other locations, and they would like an answer now; that die Uptown Association supports tee Theater, and is hopeful that things can be v✓orlced out for VCA and Desert Arts Center. He displayed a site plan showing the shared spaces, the proposed lease space, Desert Arts Center space, and the potential site for an added building. He stated that the $90,000 improvement obligations at` Mr.Layne would remain the same, including a 250-seat theater. Judith Chapman, on behalf of VCA, stated that they are encouraged by the discussions, and the work that has taken place; that the Board was only just apprised of the offer for the off- -site building, and needs some additional time to investigate the details of it, including what happens after die first two years, how much it will cost to complete the interior as it is a gutted building, whether flooring can be installed w meet the needs of the toaster dance class as well as other classes requiring special flooring; that there will still be 75 classes per week after the ballet rehearsals and performance are completed (May 10); and that VCA will be doing things to raise public consciousness about it, to fmtdraise, and to bring itself to the Villagefest. Mayor stated that there are no plans, nor funds, to add a building to Frances Stevens. ' In answer to question by Council, Downtown Development Director stated that the lease may need to be amended to clarify the shared space as to how long that obligation shall be. Councilmeruber Barnes stated that he was pleased at what has come-out of a Iong wad emotional moment; that the park has the potential to become the jewel of tee City; and that lie liked the alternative minute order. Councilmember Oden stated that lie was also pleased to hear of die Behman offer, and the collaborative effort taken to remedy the concerns. 0IT'"43 Council Agenda 3-19-97, Page 5 3. FRANCES STEVENS PARK - PROPOSED LEASE BY PALM CANYON THEATRE (Continued) Councilmember Hodges stated that the process seems premature, in that the heart of the ' facility is being dealt with, but the remainder is unclear; that she did not consider it a prudent way of doing business; that there are no current leases, and there is the opportunity to look at the whole picture and not cut it up; that more thought should be given to make certain that in its entirety the project works for everyone. Councilmember Spurgin stated that she spoke with the VCA Board members on the past Monday, and she shared similar concerns with Councilmember Hodges; that the potential of the groups working together is tremendous, and there could be a symbiotic relationship yet all of the pieces are not tied together; that she wants the theater, and also does not want to evict Desert Arts Center; that she did not think it was fair to tell VCA to go out and see if something will work, yet she also miderstood the concerns of Mr. Layne. Mayor agreed that there is probably not enough time; that Mr. Layne offered a two week delay at the last meeting to get to this point; that he appreciated the estimated $87,000 in (117- improvements, noting that some are not permanent improvements; and mainly are to 023) modify two existing bathrooms for handicap, with $25,000 for seats and $19,000 for the stepped auditorium; and when completed, that will change the physical conditions of the building; that other variables regarding the space are unknown; that the master plan is almost being fast-tracked; that the theater component can be secured; and the question is if the Council wants a further delay, and risk losing the theater. In answer to questions by Council, Downtown Development Director stated that a master plan could take two weeks to two years; that he has been working on it for the past 18 months; that issues of space needs, future uses, etc. are components of a master plan; that VCA needs authorship of its proposal, that he did not have its financial statements, nor business plan. Ms. Chapman agreed the planning could take a long time, but they were only asking for the short delay to pursue the details of the Belnnan offer, and Qte workability of it. Councilmember Hodges stated that the ballet company practices all of the time, not just until May 10, and another building is found suitable, there will still be the transition time; that she would like to grant the time, and would like to see all three contracts at the same time. Councilmember Oden stated that the Council may face the same situation in two weeks; and that there will be somewhat of a delay in performances after May 10. Mr.Layne stated that be needed a decision at this time, in that tinting is short and he needs to obtain plan approval to be able to start the work; that he did not believe there has been anything from the VCA Board until only the last few days; that they have tried to work things through, and the only thing that could not be accommodated was the dance group; that he did not see how much would change in the next two weeks; other than whether it will have a definitive place of meeting for the dance group; that lie understood there are also other spaces that can be used, but with difficult scheduling; That he would like the matter considered in two weeks, otherwise lie will pursue other spaces that he is now ' looking at. He stated that the VCA program is dear to the heart of what he wants to include at the facility, and he will try to work with them. It was moved by Hodges, seconded by Barnes, and carried by the Collowing vote, that this matter be continued for two weeks; Mayor and Councilmember Barnes to comprise a subcommittee to move the efforts forward: AYES: Barnes,Hodges, Spurgin&Kieindienst NO: Oden ABSENT: None 0 44: Council Agenda 3-19-97, Page 6 4. VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER - HOTEL RESERVATION SERVICES On March 5, 1997, the Council continued consideration of request by the Chamber of (117- Commerce relative to hotel reservation services contract withthe Visitor Information 036) Center. The Chamber of Commerce has withdrawn its request. a) Letter from Chamber of Commerce President- No action required ' CONSENT AGENDA: 5. Res 19002 supporting and recommending passage of House Resolution No. 4 by the (098- United States Congress, concerning Highway Trust Funds, and restoring the integrity of 003) the four Federal transportation trust funds. 6. MO wi hdraui approving a lease for Airport Terminal lobby space with American Photo Booths, Inc., for interactive photo kiosk equipment, for a photo postcard booth, A 7. Res 19003 awarding contract to Matich Corporation for the Mid-Valley Parkway Airport (123- access road from Vella Road and Ramon to the Airport leap road, for $t,2.84,090, 020) waiving minor irregularities, and authorizing Director, Dept. of"Transportation to approve change orders up to 10% of the contract price, CP96-44, A3778. Kleindienst abstained. 8. Res 19004 declaring intent to vacate a portion of Andreas Road, West of Surmise Way, (145- and setting hearing thereon for April 16, 1997. 001.) 9. MO 5924 approving issuance of a deposit check to Desert Water Agency for $48,660 to (136- cover its design costs to relocate the Farrell Drive water main. 025) ' 10. Res it'd 2 weeks approving final tract map 26364-1 for the Southland Group, Inc., to (137- divide property at 2121 and 2221 North Sunrise Way, Sec 2. 079) it. Res 19005 and 19006 approving Payroll Warrants and Claims & Demands. Abstentions: (086- IIodges: #918871 & 919021; Spurgin: #919202. O15) 12, Res (3) PM and MAPS withdrawn: AS ecnfd-t 3-2. -97 approving MOU will, representatives of each of the following: employees in the Police Management Unit, Fire Safety Unit, and the Management & Professional Unit. It was moved by Oden, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that Resolutions 19002 through 19006 and Minute Order 5924 be adopted, with abstentions as noted in above Item 7 and H. PADDED STARTERS: 13. AIP-15 - GRANT AMENDMENT NO. 1 City Manager reported that the grant amendment was received subsequent to the posting of the agenda, and is time sensilive in that 4 must be acted upon and e)cecuted before March (151- 28, 1997. 020) It was moved by Hodges, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that this matter , be determined eligible for consideration, and added to the agenda. Recommendation: That the Council accept Amendment No. I to FAA AIP-15 Grant Agreement to increase the grant amount from$2,028,530 to $2,056,099, A3067 Minute Order 5925 was presented, as recommended; after which, it was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that M05925 be adopted. Council Agenda 3-19-97, Page 7 REPORTS & REQUESTS: CITY COUNCIL reports or requests a) Councilmember Hodges announced two fundraising events for the Dog Pink; stated that the Council needs to look at a comraittee for the City's 60th Birthday, which is next year; that the Council previously said that it wanted VillageFest to remain open all year, and for that to begin this year, and that she hoped there would not be any surprises as to whether that will occur; and she questioned why "no parking" signs are being used instead of the red curb, which requires fewer signs than the signs alone impose. b) Mayor announced two upcoming events, - the Renaissance Festival and the Imandonari at the High School. PUBLIC reports or requests - None STAFF reports or requests - None ADJOURNED: There being no further business at 10:30 p.m., Mayor declared the meeting adjourned to March 26, 1997. JUDITH SUMICH City Clerk