HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 - MINUTES - 12/3/1997 CITY OF PALM SNRINGS
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
December 3, 1997
A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, was called to order
by Mayor Kleindienst, in the Council Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on Wednesday,
December 10, 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, Hodges, Oden, Spurgin and
Mayor Kleindienst '
Absent: None
The Meeting was opened with a Salute to the Flag by Boy Scout Lodge 12'7-Azwit, Order of the
Arrow, and invocation by Rabbi Joseph Hurwitz, Temple Isaiah.
PRESENTATIONS: PSHS Student Body Report
PS Ballet Company - Official Status Proclamation
Amateur Softball Association - National Award of Excellence (City
Recreation Division, recipient)
Miss & Mrs. Palm Springs
Positive Alternatives for Youth (Awards to recipients)
REPORT POSTING OF AGENDA: Assistant City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in
accordance with Council procedures on November 28, 1997.
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY ON MATTER DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION (All
Entities) - See items page 5 of agenda this date.
HOUSING AUTHORITY: INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: FINANCING
AUTHORITY: COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: No business
MAYOR PRO TEM - Selection of Mayor pro tem pursuant to Charter provisions for the following ,
year. Ronald Oden-elected for 1997-98.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
It was moved by Barnes, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried that the minutes
of November 5, 1997 be approved.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
a) Comments regarding item 7:
Dick Sroda, Palm Springs, questioned the Senior Softball agreement and guaranteed
payment; and recommended the hotels guarantee payment; and added that item 10 refers to (050
the purchase of a vehicle, not an emergency vehicle; and that the item should be denied. OC17)
b) Comments regarding item 8:
Darrell Meeks, stated that the marking of red curbs is clearly outlined in State (105-
regulations; that the City does not comply with those regulations; that the colors must 001)
be voted on; and that with the new designations, the area for handicapped is reduced.
c) Comments on matters not on the agenda: '
Greg Pettis, Executive Director of Palm Springs Youth Center, thanked the Council for
support of the Youth Center and added that many new programs have been added to the
schedule of events.
Karyn Barnes, 3155 E. Ramon, stated that the Festival of Lights Parade will be held on
December 6, 1997 at 5:45 p.m., regardless of rain or shine.
Council Minutes �,.A r:.
12-3-97, Page 2
COUNCIL COMMENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/INTERAGENCY REPORTS: None
LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
1. AA CASE 3.1582 -MICHAEL CHORMICLE
' Recommendation: That the Council deny request for an architectural approval for a two-
story, 2,418 square foot, single-family residence to be constructed at 755 Saturnino Road,
Section 14, an Indian-owned parcel.
Director of Planning & Building reviewed the staff report and added that there is no
provision for a single family home; that the Section 14 draft master plan has not yet been
approved by the Tribal Council; that the Planning Commission could not use the draft (111-
documentation for approval; that the decision will probably be appealed to the Tribal 001)
Council; and that the conditions provide for the dedication of 15 feet to provide the ultimate
half-street width of 40 feet along the entire frontage of the property.
Councilmember Hodges stated that there is no real choice in the matter; that the General
Plan and the Zoning Ordinance do not allow for options; and that she is not opposed to the
plan, but it is prohibited by the Ordinances to approve it.
Mayor stated that there is no opportunity to change the matter; and that the Ordinance is
clear.
Resolution 19158 upholding Plarming Commission action, with conditions was presented;
after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Spurgin and unanimously carried, that
R19158 be adopted.
2. CUP 5.0758 -HARRY MOSCATEL
' Recommendation: That the Council adopt a Resolution of Convenience and Necessity to
allow a sports bar/cocktail lounge (full service liquor bar) with outdoor seating for the
property at 476 N. Palm Canyon Drive, subject to conditions.
Director of Planning & Building reviewed the staff report and added that the Planning
Commission spent alot of time on this matter; that the recommendation includes that the (078-
Conditional Use Permit shall be reviewed in one year; that the location is in the heart of )
downtown; that there are currently 8 or 9 bars located in the CBD, or the adjacent area;
that there are a number of restaurants, deli's and cafes that are also located in the area; that
the site has undergone a rehabilitation; that there will be no loud music; that staff will work
with the applicant regarding noise; and that it is a full bar, limited to patrons 21 years of
age or older.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that the location does look nice; that it is stated in the
Planning Commission minutes that the applicant has been requested to remove the rate
signs in the Gorman Building; and that the issue could be addressed tonight.
Mayor Kleindienst stated that the conditions provide for loud speakers to be oriented
towards the building at all times and the location to be approved by the Director of
Planning and Building, and requested the City Attorney address the matter for better
terminology; that the seating allows for 49 inside and 51 seats within the outdoor patio
area; that noise may become an issue; and that the City Attorney should address the issue at
this point and that the signage mentioned by Councilmember Reller-Spurgin is
questionable as to the legality.
Director of Planning &Building stated that the sign is located three feet behind dre
window and, therefore, not governed by the Sign Ordinance; that it is a violation of the
spirit of the law, but not the law itself; that the owners have been asked to abate it; but that
this matter is located on a different parcel; that the City cannot require the sign to be
removed; but that the applicant is in the audience and may comply with Council wishes.
Council Minutes
12-3-97, Page 3
2. CUP 5.0758 - HARRY MOSCATEL (Cont'd)
Resolution 19159 as recommended, as revised was presented; after which it was moved by
Oden, seconded by Hodges and carried by the following vote, that R19159 be adopted.
AYES: Barnes, Hodges, Oden and Kleindienst
NO: Reiter-Spurgin '
ABSENT: None
3. CITY INVESTMENT POLICY - REVISED &RESTATED
Recommendation: That the Council approve a revised and restated investment policy,
pursuant to State law requirement that such policies be reviewed annually by the Council at
a public meeting. (114-
004)
City Manager reviewed the staff report, no further report was given.
Councilmember Hodges stated that the matter was postponed for subcommittee review and
requested a report.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that the subcommittee met and there were concerns
of investing too much too long; that the Finance Director addressed the concerns; and that
OMB has now approved the item, and the subcommittee recommends approval.
Resolution 19160 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by Spurgin,
seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried that R19160 be adopted.
ZI. CVAG
City Manager stated that the question of CVAG becoming an independent transportation
authority was raised and that there was some question regarding the position of the City
Council; that the City needs to guide its own destiny regarding transportation issues; and (123-
that one issue may be for the Council to review its transportation plans. 025)
Councilmember Hodges stated that the City Council took part in the suggested restructuring
of Riverside County Transportation Commission(RCTC), which ifell through; that CVAG
could be structurally under ROTC; that CVAG has done an excellent job as a counter-part
of Council of Governments (COG); that the western side of Riverside County has not
excelled as much; that if RCTC absorbs the interests of western It.iverside, the City will be
outnumbered, with no representative vote; and that this is only an idea, but one the Council
should pursue.
City Manager stated that the City of Indio is developing an independent Eastern 'Valley
Transportation Authority; that the legislation is crafted well; that if a new model is created,
instead of Indio, the whole Coachella Valley would be the Authority with nine districts;
that meetings have been held between the City of Indio and CVAG, and talks are
progressing.
Mayor Kleindienst gave an overview of the levels of authority concerning transportation
issues from a local to regional level; and added that the Cities are:only representative of
300,000 people to the State Legislature, which does not represent. alot of power; that if a
split were to happen for RCTC, the Cities future would need to be controlled; that money
for transportation issues is supposed to be distributed according to need; that Palm Springs '
has been ahead of the curve to get its fair share, but funding issues can rapidly change; that
direction should be given for the City Manager and the Director of Transportation to track
this issue; that there are many questions on where authority lines,
and staff distribution would go if the County were split; and that the matter should be
discussed frequently and Council kept aware of any issues pending.
Councilmember Oden stated that the concept is interesting and added if the paradigm is
shifted, the City may not be in the best position.
Council Minutes s ""
12-3-97, Page 4
4. CVAG (Cont'd)
City Manager concurred and added that transportation issues are critical; that decision
stages will be coming at a rapid pace; that Council direction and concurrence needs to be
given to staff; that the issue is very complicated; and that efforts will be made to keep the
matter on the agenda for discussion.
' S. SPECIAL EVENTS
Discussion regarding suspension of regulatory ordinances for special events.
City Manager stated that the Noise Ordinance dates back to when the City outlawed horse
hoofs; that the Ordinance has been modified from time to time; that an ambiance has been
created downtown of festivals and parades; that the noise level increases during those
events; that some hoteliers find this objectionable; that other hoteliers find a level of (103-
comfort; that one hotel is having a New Year's Eve party and is concerned whether noise 048)
made after 10 p.m., will be acted on by the police department; that the situation places the
police officers in uncomfortable positions; that it is suggested that the City Manager be
given the authority to suspend the Ordinance in those rare instances, such as New Year's
Eve; and the direction be given to review the Ordinance to be modified to reflect more
current times.
Councilmember Barnes stated that this is a timely issue; that the Ordinance needs to be
modified; that there are special events, such as the presentations of the Walk of Stars that
violate the noise ordinance, and agreed that the Ordinance should be waived during those
events; that signage is also something that should be addressed concerning special events.
City Manager stated that most music has been limited to sports oriented events; that the
stadium was considered for use by a symptlunony orchestra; that the Ordinance would
prohibit that use; that these are the types of issues that will be brought back to the Council
for further review; and that with Council concurrence, direction will be given to the Police
Department that the Noise Ordinance is suspended until 12:15 p.m., New Year's Eve.
Councilmember Oden stated that the suspension would affect everyone in the City; and that
the Ordinance should be reviewed.
Councilmember Hodges stated that one concern has been met; but that the concern is larger
than New Year's Eve; that one business has had to close its doors for being cited on noise
violations; and that it may be best to suspend the ordinance temporarily until a
recommendation can be brought back to Council.
City Manager stated that the violation citations are given by City employees; and that the
rules do need to be changed; but there may be instances that the Ordinance may need to be
enforced.
Mayor Kleindienst stated that the matter should be reviewed in detail, and he recommended
the matter come back to the Council for further review at a later date.
Consensus of Council to direct staff to revise Ordinance to contemporary times, and allow
administration the discretion to suspend it under certain circumstances.
fao Now 9
Council Minutes
12-3-97, Page 5
6. PD224 - SHADOWROCK LLC
Recommendation: That the Council approve final planned development District 224 and
Phase I Final Plans for an 18-hole golf course and clubhouse subject to conditions. (116-
089)
Motion to continue the matter to 12-17-97 was presented; after which, it was moved by
Spurgin, seconded by Oden, Hodges abstaining due to Client of employer and Kleindienst '
abstaining due to Client of Spouse business and carried by the following vole, that the
matter be continued.
AYES: Barnes, Oden and Spurgin
NO: None
ABSTAIN: Hodges and Kleindienst.
7. SENIOR SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES AGREEMENT
Recommendation: That the Council approve an agreement with North American Senior (050-
Circuit Softball to host the 1998 Senior Softball World Series September 25 - October 4, 007)
1998.
Motion to continue the matter to 12-17-97 was presented; after which, it was moved by
Spurgin, seconded by Oden and unanimously carried that the matter be continued.
8. PARKING ZONES - BUSES FOR P.S. FOLLIES PERFORMANCES
Recommendation: That the Council approve temporary conditional bus parking zones
along the north curb of Tahquitz Canyon Way, the west curb of Belardo Road, the east
curb of Indian Canyon Drive, and the south curb of Arenas Road. (105-
001)
City Manager reviewed the staff report and added that installation of temporary bus loading '
zones along the above mentioned corridors would allow a continuous flow for the Palm
Springs Follies; that the closure of the current parking lot for the construction of the
Mercardo Project has impacted the downtown area; that without the use of the temporary
bus parking zones, Folly patrons will be forced to walk several blocks; and that the areas
could be temporarily marked.
Downtown Improvement Director stated that the proposed recommendation would allow
conditional bus parking zones; that the driver must stay with the vehicle; that the bus
drivers are being encouraged to use the Spa Hotel parking area; that the area around the
Welwood Murray will be repainted to reflect 2 hour parking; that the Marquis Motel will
be shortening up the space currently red curbed by the fire hydrant, and the busses will not
stay parked at that location.
Mayor Kleindienst questioned how long the temporary situation would last; and added that
Harry Hoffbraus has offered to allow two busses to park in their parking lot, and one
curbside; and questioned whether the Follies is assisting in looking for a parking, solution.
Downtown Improvement Director stated that there are alot of people in town; and that the
construction causes some disruption, but that all parties are working towards keeping the
busses from parking on the street.
Resolution 19161 as recommended, as revised, subject to City Attorney final language was
presented; after which, it was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously ,
carried, that R19161 be adopted.
ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ACTION: None
Council Minutes
12-3-97, Page 6
CONSENT AGENDA:
In answer to questions by Council, City Manager stated that the CNG unit would be coming from
Kansas; that it is at this time, a sole source provider; that operation of the CNG is cheaper; that
staff does make every effort to purchase locally; that the Department of Economic Development
will encourage local dealers to market CNG; that mandates are coming from the State level for
' CNG conversion; and that staff is staying abreast of requirements.
9. MO 6057 approving Change Order No. 10 to construction contract with Granite Construction (123-
Company for the Mid Valley Parkway for a decrease of$127,694.73, no change in contract 023)
time, CP94-19, A3670. Hodges abstain.
10. MO 6058 authorizing emergency replacement of Unit 216-91 (fire damaged vehicle) with (084-
acquisition of a dedicated CNG vehicle, at a cost of$17,726, plus tax, from Cunningham 015)
Motors.
11. MO 6059 approving Work Directive 24 with Gensler Associates for additional design work
related to concessions and security of the Airport, not to exceed $6,910, A2781. Kleindienst (051-
abstain. 095)
12. Res 19162 approving Payroll Warrants, and Res 19163 approving Claims & Demands. (086-
016)
Note abstentions, if any:
Councilmember - Warrant# - Payee - Particular Nature of Conflict
Hodges 926478 Chris Foster Client of Employer
926486 Granite Const Client of Employer
926601 Preferred Plumbing Client of Employer
Spurgin 926649 Dennis Spurgin Spouse
Resolutions 19162 through 19163 and Minute Orders 6057 through 6059 were presented; after
which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Spurgin and unanimously carried, Hodges abstaining
on item I due to client of employer and Kleindienst on item 11 due to the Airport Master Plan,
that R19162 and 19163, and MO6057 through 6059 be adopted.
ADDED STARTERS: None
REPORTS & REQUESTS:
CITY COUNCIL reports or requests
a) Councilmember Hodges requested a report concerning the conversion of Indian
Avenue to a two-way street.
b) Mayor Kleindienst stated that Mesquite Avenue adjacent to Demuth Park there is
construction material and questioned what its purpose is; and the traffic signal and
curb lines at Crossley Road and Ramon to be reviewed.
o't . yyc'
l7 A
Council Minutes
12-3-97, Page 7
PUBLIC reports or requests - None
STAFF reports or requests
City Manager stated that effort will be made to respond to Council[ requests on future
agendas.
ADJOURNMENT: ,
There being no further business, Mayor declared the meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.,
December 8, 1997, at 4 p.m., in Studio B for Council Workshop; and thereafter further
adjourned to December 10, 1997, for a Joint Meeting with the School Board, at 7 p.m., in
Room 303, at the Palm Springs High School.
JUDITH SUMICH
LLtv Clerk
a ',
By: PATRICIA A. SANDERS
Assistant City Clerk