Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000 - MINUTES - 10/18/2000 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL MINUTES ' OCTOBER 18, 2000 A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, was called to order by Mayor pro tem Reller-Spurgin, in the Council Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on Wednesday, October 18, 2000, 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 Jones, Hodges, Oden, and Reller-Spurgin Absent: Mayor Kleindienst The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag by Troop 262, and an invocation by Reverend Keith Newsome, Community Church of Palm Springs. REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in accordance with Council procedures on October 13, 2000. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY ON MATTERS DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION (All Entities) - See items on Page 8 of agenda this date. PRESENTATIONS: P.S. Police Department-New Officer-Michael Goodwin Red Ribbon Week-Boys & Girls Club ' 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 COMMENTS: The following Comments were on matters not on the Agenda: Brent Robbins, 546 S. Camino Real, stated that recently a life threatening situation occurred at Budget Taxi, that the experience included being held at gunpoint; that the Palm Springs Police Department did not consider the area a crime scene; that the area was not secured; that any evidence that was available was compromised; and that the case was handled badly. Council Minutes 10-18-00, Page 2 George Wendt, 3055 Escoba, stated that the Budget Taxi business was a way of life; ' that being left for dead at one's business due to robbery is a horrific; experience; I'hat the Taxi company provides a good service to the City; that now the company employees are scared to be out at night; that the business will have to close; that the area of the robbery was not secured by the police; that local news reporters and other officials walked through blood on the floor, and contaminated the area; that the police department does not have the capability to investigate an area that it should; that four days after the incident, the area was fingerprinted; that there have been five taxi incidents in the past year; that the companies are regulated by Sunline and the problem should likewise be addressed by Sunline. Bob Graft stated that he had requested, from the Recreation Center, a resident dliscount card for golfing; that the Center would not accept copies of utility bills as proof of residency and did require a voters registration card or a drivers license and questioned how the discount could be obtained if one did not have the two requirements for identification. Jed Poole stated that there are a lot of changes in Palm Springs; that one thing that is neglected is the youth; that some are meeting to form the Youth Association of Palm Springs; that the meetings are addressing what the youth needs from the City; that the Youth Commission also desires to know what the City is expecting from them; that many Cities have youth programs, but the City of Palm Springs in lacking; that they do not want set activities, but rather a choice in activities; and that the Commission is ready and ' waiting for some type of direction from the City. William Houser, Palm Springs Youth Association, stated that the Association is trying to reach out to the youth of Palm Springs and to the Community; that one of the goals is to foster and develop a relationship between the youth and the City Council; that lately the youth have been used as a scapegoat for activities that are happening in the downtown area; and added that it is not the majority of youth that are the problem. Rick Anderson, hotel owner, stated that he had opened a business near Budget Taxi; that when the Taxi Company opened its doors the neighborhood was in disarray; that the building was run down; that now the building is occupied and could be called a redevelopment success; that the police department needs to work with the neighborhood to ensure that the incident that happened to Budget does not happen again; that there is no area that is perfectly safe, but that this area is a success story for reinvention and should be assisted at this time. Dohilla B. Dahilla stated that he was told by the police that he could not protest on the sidewalk in front of Blimpies; that he had contacted the employees and had been given permission; that he was informed by the police department that he: did need a permit to stand on the sidewalk; that in checking with City Hall, there is no permit that is required; that in his opinion the Council needs to address the issue of the Spa Casino not being "gay friendly"; and that he will remain cordial to all and continue to protest for the next year against the actions of the Spa Casino. ' Council Minutes 10-18-00,Page 3 ' Joy Meredith, Crystal Fantasy, stated that the Hot Rod and Bike Weekend would be occurring this weekend; that the projection was fora high turnout; that there are many activities happening in the downtown over the next month; that all are invited to attend; and that the downtown opens its arms to the youth and hopes that the issues can be resolved. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA: Items 1 thru 10, except 4 and 5. It was moved by Oden, seconded by Jones, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that Items 1 thru 10, excluding items 4 and 5, be adopted. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Res 19921 certifying loan for$300,000 from the California Energy Commission to provide matching funds for the installation of a $650,000 solar absorption system at the Cogeneration Plant. CP99-17. 2. MO 6732 approving Change Order#2 to A4240 with Doug Wall Construction Inc., for changes to the airport main terminal restroom remodel, for$13,900, total contract amount $170,134.86. Hodges abstain-Client of Employer. 3. MO 6733 approving the release of liquidated damages withheld from Mercury Construction for the Boys & Girls Club gymnasium remodel for $3,320. ' 4. See Extended Consent Agenda below. 5. See Extended Consent Agenda below. 6. MO 6734 approving indemnification agreement with Glen Grayman M.D., for medical advisor/director services for the City's EMT-D and EMT-P program on a voluntary basis. A4286. 7. MO 6735 approving Amendment #2 to A3741 with CVAG for reimbursement agreement regarding the Mid Valley Parkway Phase 3 for the widening of the intersection at Gene Autry Trail and Ramon Road; and the installation of an Airport Express Lane, westbound on Ramon Road, from Gene Autry Trail to the Vella Road entrance to the airport; CP99-13; for shared cost of $290,000 (50/50 split), total contract $2,641,600. 8. Res 19922 approving purchase of furniture for the Police Department from Seal Furniture, for a total of$34,050. 9. MO 6736 and MO 6737 approving lease regarding space located at PS Mall and lease regarding space located on North Palm Canyon for Community Policing Offices, subject to final language of City Attorney. A4287, A4288. 1 Council Minutes 10-18-00, Page 4 10. Res 19924 approving Claims & Demands. ' Note abstentions, if any: Councilmember Warrant# Payee Particular Nature of Conflict Hodges 957652 DWA Client of Employer 957656 Doug Wall 957679 Foster Const 957686 Granite 957772 Pref Plumb EXTENDED CONSENT AGENDA: 4. SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT 17043 — SECOND AMENDMENT Recommendation: That the Council approve a second amendment to Subdivision Improvement Agreement Tract 17043, A2171, with Palm Hills Land Corp., to extend the term to November 1, 2005. Councilmember Hodges stated that this request is for another extension of time; that she did not support the first extension of time; and that this request is not supported; that the project was approved in 1981; that a lot has happened in 20 , years; that it is time to review the project as to relativity to the City's plan at this time; and added that it is not a good policy to keep approving the extensions. Director of Planning & Building stated that the request for extension was by the developer; that if the request is not approved the process would have to start over; that basically this is to allow time for all maps to be; in final form and added that the matter could be referred to staff should the Council desire. Councilmember Hodges questioned why after 20 years the improvements have not been done. Councilmember Oden stated that the matter should be referred to study session for additional information and to allow the developer to review the project status. Motion to deny the extension was presented; after which, it was moved by Hodges, and failed due to a lack of second. Resolution 19923 was presented; after which, it was moved by Jones, seconded by Oden and carried by the following vote that R19923 be adopted. AYES: Jones, Oden and Reller-Spurgin NO Hodges ABSENT: Kleindienst ' Council Minutes 10-18-00,Page 5 ' 5. FIRE DEPARTMENT EXERCISE EQUIPMENT Recommendation: That the Council approve purchase of four treadmills from Star Trac by Unisen Inc., via participation with US General Services Administration contract for a total of$15,516. City Manager reviewed staff report and added because of the extent of use, a commercial style treadmill is recommended. Mayor pro tern Reller-Spurgin stated that the request seemed excessive for exercise equipment; that the matter had been reviewed with the City Manager, Fire Chief and Assistant City Manager, but that it is still difficult to understand the cost of$3,500 per treadmill. Fire Chief stated that the Wellness Program was started one year ago in the Fire Department; that the purpose of the Program is to improve cardiovascular circulation; that the current equipment is aging; that it is recommended to purchase commercial equipment; that the life of commercial equipment is 12 — 15 years; that the use by personnel is much more stringent that use by the typical consumer; that retail purchases of the equipment have a normal life of 2 years, and then the equipment starts falling apart; and that the City will save approximately $6,000 with the commercial purchase over the next ten years. ' Minute Order 6738 was presented; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Oden, and carried by the following vote that MO6738 be adopted. AYES: Hodges, Jones and Oden NO: Reller-Spurgin ABSENT: Kleindienst PUBLIC HEARINGS: 11. 2330 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE TTM 29825— LAWRENCE SOFONIO Recommendation: That the Council approve Tentative Tract Map 29825, a 21 unit time share development with a 75 seat restaurant, for property located at 2330 North Palm Canyon Drive. Director of Planning & Building reviewed the staff report, no further report was given. Mayor pro tern declared the hearing open. Lawrence Sofonio stated that everything has been completed to City standards; that the only piece lacking is approval of the Map and requested Council consideration of same. There being no further appearances, the hearing was closed. Council Minutes 10-18-00, Page 6 Councilmember Oden stated that the project started with a lot of site ,problems; ' and that the renovation has been so good, that one cannot compare; it to the previous site. Councilmembers Hodges and Jones concurred. Resolution 19925 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Jones, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that R19925 be adopted. 12. CANTINA WAY SEWER CONSTRUCTION REFUND AGREEMENT— RON GILBREATH Recommendation: That the Council approve a second amended sewer construction refund agreement with Ron Gilbreath for off.-site sewers on Cantina Way, T4S R4E Section 27. Assessor Parcel Numbers 513-430-040, 513-430- 001, 513-430-011 and 513-430-019. City Engineer reviewed the staff report and stated that the amendment would allow additional lots outside the district to join and pay their fair share for the sewer hookup; and that no protests or objections had been received; and added that the district was originally formed with five properties; that each parcel pays its fair share when the lot is hooked up to the sewer; that there are some ' additional properties that could be a part of the district and that approval would afford those properties the ability to have City sewer services. City Attorney clarified that the approval would equalize the fair share portion by allowing reductions for those that are already paying and added that all in the district were in accordance with the recommendation. Councilmember Hodges abstained due to client of employer. Mayor pro tem declared the hearing open, there being no appearances the hearing was closed. Resolution 19926 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by Jones, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, Hodges abstain and Kleindienst absent, that R19926 be adopted. n. Council Minutes 10-18-00,Page 7 ' 13. TPM 29631 — CS3F PARTNERSHIP Recommendation: That the Council approve a mitigated negative declaration and tentative parcel map 29631 to create 23 parcels, subject to conditions, located on the east side of Gene Autry Trail, south of Palm Springs Classic Project, M-1-P zone, Section 18. Director of Planning & Building reviewed the staff report, no further report was given. Mayor pro tem declared the hearing open. John Sanborn, representing CS3F Partnership, requested approval. There being no further appearances, the hearing was closed. Resolution 19927 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that R19927 be adopted. 14. CS 5.0757 TTM 28668 — EDITH A. TOOR ' Recommendation: That the Council approve Change of Zone and Tentative Tract Map 28668, subject to conditions, for property located west of Rose Avenue and north of Stevens Road, 0-20 Zone, Section 10. Director of Planning & Building reviewed the staff report and added that the approval of any future design would need further approval. Mayor pro tem declared the hearing open. Jim Schlecht, 801 Tahquitz, stated that a group of homeowners had been working on an agreement with the developer and questioned if the agreement had been incorporated in the conditions of approval. Director of Planning & Building stated that the Planning Commission did incorporate the terms into those that are being recommended for approval. There being no further appearances, the hearing was closed. It was moved by Oden, seconded by Hodges, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that further reading be waived and the Title of the Ordinance be introduced for first reading. 1 ui r v J Council Minutes 10-18-00,Page 8 City Clerk read Title of Ordinance as follows; AN ORDINANCE OF 'THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE ZONING MAP BY APPROVING A CHANGE OF ZONE FROM 0-20 (OPEN LAND — ONE UNIT PER 20 ACRES) TO R-1-A (SINGLE: FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONE), LOCATED ON APPROXIMATELY 4.48 GROSS ACRES OF LAND, WEST OF ROSE AVENUE AND NORTH OF STEVENS ROAD, SECTION 10; after which, Resolution 19928 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Hodges, and unanimously carried, K:leindienst absent, that R19928 be adopted. 15. POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FUNDING Recommendation: That the Council approve receipt of Federal Funding regarding grant to provide laptop computers for the Police Department. City Manager reviewed the staff report and added that the: new computers would be compatible with the City's software. Councilmember Hodges commended staff for obtaining the grant. ' Mayor pro tem declared the hearing open; there being no appearances, the hearing was closed. Motion to accept grant was presented; after which, it was moved by Jones, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that the Motion be adopted. COUNCIL COMMENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/INTERAGENCY REPORTS: 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 recommended scheduling a sturdy session to discuss possible appointment process for a "youth" Councilmerriber, and requested the Mizell Senior Center request for funding be included in the quarterly budget review for discussion; that code enforcement issues on tribal lands be reviewed and a report on traffic accidents occurring on Vista Chino at the turnouts near Sunrise Way be prepared for review. Councilmember Jones requested review of funding for the Palm Springs Desert Resorts Convention and Visitors Bureau be scheduled for discussion. ' Council Minutes 10-18-00,Page 9 ' LEGISLATIVE ACTION: 16. PALM SPRINGS SKATE PARK AND SWIM CENTER IMPROVEMENTS Recommendation: That the Council authorize negotiations with Interactive Design Corporation to provide a design for a recreation center which would include a new skate park and swim center improvements. Director of Facilities reviewed the staff report and added that Michael McIntyre will be the designer; that it is the goal of the Committee that the skate park be used, not just exist as a monument in the City; that after the contract is negotiated, there will be a minimum of three public meetings to address any neighborhood concerns; that the end users will be involved in the design process; and requested the recommendation be approved. Councilmember Jones stated that it is good to involve the neighborhood; that there have been some concerns written by the residents concerning the park; and that those concerns need to be addressed. Mayor pro tern Reller-Spurgin stated that concerns of noise and lighting have been indicated by some of the residents and requested those concerns likewise be addressed by the Committee. ' Councilmember Hodges stated that this will be a $1 million project and questioned where the funding will be coming from; and whether it would be better to split the project into two separate projects, one for the swim center improvements and one for the skate park. Director of Facilities stated that there is a $170,000 allocation for the swim center improvements; that additionally the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians have donated $30,000 for the design of the skate park; that Prop 12 funding will be available for the City; that staff is following the application process closely for those grants; that when they become available, the City should be able to be granted approximately $537,000; and that the rest may be raised through corporate sponsors and donations. Councilmember Oden stated that the concept is one that is needed; and that it is time to get the ideas on paper. Minute Order 6739 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Hodges, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that MO6739 be adopted. Council Minutes 10-18-00,Page 10 17. ORDINANCE FOR SECOND READING & ADOPTION (Intro 10-4-00) ' Councilmember Jones stated that the proposed height of the windmills is not acceptable. City Clerk read Title of Ordinance as follows: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE IN REGARD TO OUTDOOR LIGHTING REGULATIONS, THE HEIGHT OF COMMERCIAL_ WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS, MOTORCYCLE RENTAL IN THE C1 ZONING DISTRICT SUBJECT TO A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, RATE SIGN REGULATIONS, DAY SPA REGULATIONS, AND NON-SUBSTANTIVE MISCELLANEOUS AMENDMENTS TO PROMOTE CLARITY; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Oden and failed by the following vote: AYES: Hodges and Oden NO: Jones ABSENT: Kleindienst ABSTAIN: Reller-Spurgin, due to possible conflict with Spouse's income. Motion to reconsider the matter and continue same to November 1, 2000 was ' presented; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that the matter be continued. 18. ALLOCATED POSITIONS AND COMPENSATION PLAN AMENDMENT Recommendation: That the Council amend the allocated positions and compensation plan for fiscal year 2000-01 for the Senior Accountant and Accountant positions. City Manager reviewed the staff report and added that the,job description of both positions must be changed or new positions need to be added. Councilmember Hodges expressed appreciation that the City Manager had reviewed the positions and brought the matter forward. Resolution 19929 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, Kleindienst absent, that R19929 be adopted. 19. ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITEMS: None. ADDED STARTERS: None Council Minutes 10-18-00,Page 11 REPORTS & REQUESTS: CITY COUNCIL reports or requests - None DEPARTMENTAL reports or requests 20. Treasurer's Investment of August 31, 2000-Received & Filed. PUBLIC reports or requests - None STAFF reports or requests - None ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, Mayor pro tem declared the meeting adjourned. PATRICIA A. SANDERS City Clerk 1 1