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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 - MINUTES - 2/4/1998 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL MINUTES FEBRUARY 4, 1998 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, February 4, 1998, 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, Odell, Reller-Spurgin, and Mayor Kleindienst Absent: None The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag led by Boy Scout Troop 905, and all invocation by Rev. Andrew Green, St. Paul's in the Desert. REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in accordance with Council procedures on January 30, 1998. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY ON MATTERS DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION (All Entities) - See items on Page 4 of agenda this date. PRESENTATIONS: Barrett Industries "Eagle Award" presented to Police Chief L. Weigel, and to the Palm Springs Police Department, for the use of mobile solar electronic technology. HOUSING AUTHORITY: INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: FINANCING AUTHORITY: - No Business COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: Mayor declared the meeting adjourned for the purpose of convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency; after which, members reconvened ' as the City Council. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None PUBLIC COMMENTS: a) Comments on matters not related to an agenda item: Arelene Smith, resident, stated that she previously sent a letter to [lie Council, and contacted Jerry Ogburn, concerning ideas for the use of the Desert Fashion Plaza and Tramway Gas Station locations; and asked for comment to her ideas from the Council; and volunteered any assistance in bringing out her suggestions. b) Comments concerning Items 1 and 10: Dick Sroda, resident, slated that the City does not have any money to give to the (0II5- Senior Center; that lie questioned need and justification of the expenditure of funds 015) for a new finance computer software; that be questioned whether Finance (061- Department records should be authorized for destruction; and suggested that a 022) Grand Jury might look into unauthorized destruction of other records. COUNCIL COMMENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/INTERAGENCY REPORTS: a) Mayor and Councilmembers reported on various civic and community organizational meetings and events which they attended, subsequent to the last regular meeting, and announced upcoming events of community interest. Councilmember Oden also requested a revisiting of the Recapturing Our Neighborhoods Program in terms of the Cottonwood-Chuckwalla Area; as well as improvement needed downtown in terms of the sidewalks, and cleanup; and a report concerning 517 E. Vista Chino. LEGISLATIVE ACTION: 4hr`?ti� Council Minutes 2-4-98, Page 2 1. MIZELL SENIOR CENTER- REQUEST FOR FUNDING Recona nendation: That the Council provide direction whether to give additional funding to the Mizell Senior Center, of $67,120, making a total funding level of $120,000 for fiscal year 1997-98. City Manager reported that before the passage of the utility tax in November, the Senior , Center had requested a total funding level of$120,000. Ben Green, Mizell Senior Center, Executive Director, stated that most senior centers are (061•- funded by local government to the extent of 70% of their finding; that Palm Springs only 022) provides 9%; and that the request would bring the support level to 20%. He stated that Pain Springs has had a history of struggling for finding funds for this important work at the center, that they would like the City to place it at a key level of City budgeting, and not funded by "finding the money;" that the MSC raised more private money than all other senior centers combined; that the County has found the MSC to be the best in terns of its Meals on Wheels program; that seniors voted to increase taxes for schools, and were responsible for the passage of the utility tax continuation, and he felt they expected to have an advantage of that revenue; and that the success of the center has been in working together as a community. He stated the correct name is the "Mizell] Senior Center." In response to question by Council, City Manager stated it was This hnpression that within the scope of the budget, only a portion of funds could be provided because of the uncertainty of the continuation of the utility tax. Councilmember Hodges stated she did not think there was a specific couunitment to do it after the tax election; that the sentunent associated with the voter's approval was that they were approving the tax for two more years, but with the expectations that there would be changes made; that she was concerned where the money will come from; that the Center does provide needed and excellent service; that it is considering '.a variety of thoughts and ideas, and that any savings that might otherwise be available to '.some things, she favored retaining in order to reduce the tax. City Manager stated that other programs were discussed in study sessions, in which references were made to the Fact it had been huplied that means of funding die Center would be looked at; that tluere will be savings from reorganization, but they are within the confines of the budget. Councilmember Barnes stated that he believes the Center should he funded, but it is not the or-Ay facility or provider which needs help; that it should be included with all Council priorities; that the City is on the up-swing, and a way should the found to fluid the fill] $120,000, as well as finding a means to help other organizations, which also have hefty overhead, but which are also essential to the well-being of the conummity, i.e., the Boys 8a Girls Club, the Youth Center, and Desert Highland Unity Center; that restructuring of one position could save about one-half of the $250,000 that it might take to achieve such a priority. Mayor stated that lie appreciated the fact that the tax was approved, and the awareness that time is needed, although Ire did not know haw long that might be; that the Council committed to reducing the tax over time; that the revenues from the tax are not new dollars, rather an allowance to maintain what was in place at the time the tax was passed; that he supports the concept that the City has some favorable economic hnprovements; that systems are only being fixed that have needed repair a long time ago; that the proper reserve levels have not been achieved; that the Council is challenged to do as much as possible, yet reduce reliance on the tax, reduce debt, and expand and enhance the quality of life; that other organizations are asking for, and expanding their support needs, and the Council is challenged to see what it can address in that regard; and that the Council must first come together as to where it wants to go. Councilmember Oden stated that the name, "Mizell Center" falls more in line with the types of services that it provides, in that it fills a void between youth and remainder of the population it serves. Council Minutes 2-4-98, Page 3 City Manager stated that the tax provides $4.5 million of the revenue stream and expenditures which relate to that revenue source; and that there was discussion about finding savings within the current budget to address the televising conunissions issue, and an ombudsman type position in the Building & Planning Department to track and follow through on projects; and that Mr. Green said he could provide volunteers who could handle that. Councilmember Reller-Spu gin stated that this is an emotional issue; that she is not paid by the Center; that it is an incredible organization, which does an incredible amount for a lot of people that live in the City; that the community has many people who poor, and the Meals on Wheels might be the only meal they get for the day, or be the only form of socialization they get; that she is supportive of the request; that she recalled the conversations which have been referred to, and she feels the Council has already made a cohmnitment to it, i.e., that the City Manager was going to do some reorganization and find the money for it. Mayor stated he recalled the discussion as being tied back to the televising services and having the Center run that operation, which did not work out; that there was to be a reliance (061- on the VIP Program for the volunteers to nun the prograhn, but the money in return was 022) based on PSCTV revenues, which did not materialize. City Manager stated that teleconferencing was another aspect; that he believed a commitment was made, and he sought to find recognition by the Council of that, and to determine the current status as to providing those funds; that he could come back with a review of the savings from reorganization, as well as how expanding to a greater number of organizations might.be addressed, although that would be of greater difficulty. Councilmember Oden agreed that all of the organizations should be looked at; and that it is ' important that if the Council made a commitment, it should follow through with that. Mayor suggested this subject be part of the Workshop, and not decided in an isolated situation. Councilmember Barnes agreed, and added that he wants to fiord the Center, but was concerned about addressing each issue individually, and did not want to deal with each organization selectively as it came up; and he suggested that that this be included in Workshop and budget discussions. Mr. Green stated that he felt the Council's conunitment was such that lie cannot wait much longer, in that the budget year is half over; that the Center has worked hard, and enthusiasm diminishes when it hears it is not valued; and that he did not think the City has been a good partner, and he would like to see that changed. Councilmember Oden stated he was not opposed to this issue as a Workshop item; that the Council implied it was going to do something, and that is the direction that was given to the City Manager; and that there needs to be better communication when the directives of that nature are given, in that the Center has obviously been waiting for the Council to respond. Mayor requested that the minutes of the Council meetings in which this matter was discussed be provided prior to the next Workshop. Discussion concluded that the item be a subject for the next Workshop; and thereafter scheduled on the agenda for the following meeting. 0(124 Council Minutes 2-4-98, Page 4 It was moved by Barnes, seconded by Hodges, and carried by the following vote, that this matter be continued for two weeks, and be part of the next Workshop discussion: AYES: Barnes, Hodges, Oden and Kleindienst NO: Relter-Spurgin ABSENT: None 2. FIRE STATION 1 - REMODELING Recommendation: That the Council authorize services of Interactive Design to prepare plans and specifications, and bid documents for $17,500, call for construction bids, and direct purchase of certain equipment for $17,500, in order to renovate Fire Station 1, for an estimated total project cost of$285,000. City Manager stated that it 'was important for the Council to know the total scope of 117- remodeling required, considering the condition of the building; as well as alternatives to 012) using the building, in that the Council may not want to make a substantial investment until those alternatives can be looked at; that alternate means of providing fire service is also being looked at, which could mean that the station would still be required at that location. In response to question by Council, he stated that required renovation could be a part of an RFP; that the structure is sound, and not likely to collapse in an earthquake; that the roll- down door is a serious problem, in that it has become inoperable and threatening the exiting of the fire trucks, and there could be a thne when it will not work during an emergency; that other areas relate to livability, which are marginally minimal. He added this should be a priority item of discussion at the next Workshop. Fire Chief stated that the electrical problem has not been corrected, and the direct purchase reconnnendatiou would address the roll-down door, and some of the electrical. Mayor stated that this matter is a study session, or agenda item; and that the Workshop is ' for dialogue on priorities and ideas; that there is a history of deferral of maintenance; that as one aspect of the building is addressed, it leads to another, and another area which needs to be taken care of. City Manager recommended authorizing the $17,500 safety items and that the remainder of the subject be included on the study session of February 25. Councilmember Hodges suggested looking at the entire City, and assessing where fire stations should ideally be located, or possibly eliminating a station; that the staff should be aware that the Council is looking at every department. Fire Chief stated that the vendor has indicated that he cannot do anything more for the condition of the roll-down door. Res 19191 amending the budget ($17,500), and Res 19190 , authorizing the $17,500 direct purchase of equipment, were presented; after which, it was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, that R19190-19191 be adopted. 3. PUBLIC EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYSTEM- CONTRACT AMENDMENT (Intro 1- 14-98) City Clerk read title of Ord 1552, to amend the contract with PERS concerning survivor (110- benefits; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Reller-Spurgin, and 009) ' unanimously carried, that further reading be waived, and 01552 be adopted. 4. ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITEMS: None. Council Minutes 2-4-98, Page 5 CONSENT AGENDA: 5. Res t9192 approving pre-qualified trade contractors as first step of a two-step bid process for r the Airport Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2A, i.e., concrete, metal panels, glazing, (051- lumbin HVAC electrical. Hodges abstain-Clients of Employer, Kleindienst abstain-Airport 095) P g, g �' ' P ' Master Plan. 6. MO 6095 extending purchase order price agreement by optional single-year extension for (084- furnishing and delivering annual requirements of asphalt rubber crack sealant to Maxwell 015) Products at a unit price of$0.191 per pound for an estimated $46,305.56, including tax, for use by the Streets Division and the Airport. 7. MO 6096 authorizing hauling and disposal of approximately 6,475 wet tons of anaerobic (127- digested biosalids from the Wastewater Treatment Plant by Pima Gro Systems (purchase order), 001) at a unit price of$18.90 pet ton for Class A biosalids, and$20.08 per ton for Class B biosolids, for a total not to exceed $80,000 in Fiscal Year 1997-98; and $50,000 in 1998-99, contingent upon 98-99 budget appropriation. 8. MO 6097 approving sole source purchase of a six-foot bearing and seal for the No. 2 trickling (084- filter at the Wastewater Treatment Plant from EIMCO Process Equipment, the original 015) equipment manufacturer, for a total of$12, 473.25, including tax and shipping. 9. Res 19193 approving addendum to Memorandum of Understanding with the P.S. Police (110- Managernent Unit, concerning the reallocation of positions and range adjustment from 013) Lieutenants to Commanders. 10. Res 19194 authorizing destruction of certain Finance Department records, dated no sooner than (151- July 1, 1993. 001) 11. MO 6098 approving first amendment with Tait & Associates Inc., for construction contract (117- administrative services for $28,920., CP95-17, A3827. 001) t2. MO 6099 approving agreement with Garvin& Eggebraaten for supplemental Code Enforcement attorney services not to exceed$15,000. A3904. (068- 001) 13. Res 19195 approving Payroll Warrants, and Res 19196 approving Claims & Demands (086- Note abstentions, if any: 016) Councilmember Warrant N Payee Particular Nature of Conflict Reller-Spurgin 928182 Spurgin Spouse Hodges 928602 Foster Client of Employer 928611 Granite Client of Employer 928744 Pref Plumb Client of Employer It was moved by Oden, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that Resolutions 19192 through 19196 and Minute Orders 6095 through 6099 be adopted. ADDED STARTERS: AS1. 1997-98 BUDGET POSITION Recommendation: That the Council delete certain positions in the Parks & Recreation (061- ' Division, and adjust Director of Transportation salary range, in the 1997-98 budget. 022) City Manager stated that the need for action arose subsequent to the posting of the agenda; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Reller-Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that this matter be determined eligible for consideration, and added to the agenda. Council Minutes 2-4-98, Page 6 City Manager recommended the elimination of the Director of Parks, Recreation and Golf, a vacant Recreation Leader position; a realignment of duties and the reclassification of the Recreation program Manager to Recreation & Special events Manager, and of the Contracts Manager to Parks & Golf Course Manager, and an adjusted salary range of the Director, Dept. of Transportation. In answer to question by Council, Director, Dept. of Transportation stated that the annualized average savings is $65,000. Mayor stated that the recommendation came very fast, and lie was not comfortable with the change happening so quickly, versus discussion as to the benefits of filling the Director's position again. Councilmernber Oden stated that even though this would be done now, the Council will still be looking at the total organization. In response to question by Mayor, City Manager stated that a reduction in ranges, however, would not be likely. City Attorney pointed out that range reductions generally result in a "y" rate for the person holding the position. Mayor stated that if the entire organization is going to be looked at, he questioned why the need to move forward now. Councilmetnber Barnes stated that he considered the Director of Transportation to be die best in the country; that in restructuring the control of the division, it is still under his purview, and he, therefore, did not advocate the step increase. Resolution 19197, revised to only eliminate the position of Director of Parks, Recreation and Golf, was presented; after which, it was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Hodges, and ' carried by the following vote, that R19197 be adopted: AYES: Barnes, Hodges, Odena and Reller-Spurgin NO: Kleindienst ABSENT: None REPORTS & REQUESTS: 14. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS - Received for Filing a) Treasurer's Investment Reports - November and December, 1997 (121- 002;1 CITY COUNCIL reports or requests - none PUBLIC reports or requests a) Dick Sroda, resident, stated he did not recall there was any coin nihnent to increase tine senior center funding, and if that is done, everyone else must be considered; that he did not think tourists at the senior center should be supported by tax dollars; that there was no discussion about salary increases for the Police Commanders; and that he did not drink there would be much budget savings. b) Arnie Osborne, owner of Villa Alejo, thanked and commended the Fire Department for responding to a fire at her property; and provided a sketch showing traffic blind spots which she would like to have addressed. City Manager to contact her. STAFF reports or requests - none There being no further business at 8:40 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting adjourned (Workshop February 10, 4 p.m., Hyatt, Petite Salon). -=JUDITH SUMICH City Clerk