HomeMy WebLinkAbout4/4/2007 - STAFF REPORTS - 2.B. PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2007
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Oden called the meeting to order at 6:03 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: City Manager Ready led the Pledge.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmember Foat, Councilmember McCulloch, Councilmember
Mills, Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet, and Mayor Oden.
ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Ready, City Attorney Holland, City Clerk Thompson.
PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Oden announced the recent United Way dinner.
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION: City Attorney Holland stated that at 5:00 P.M. the
meeting was called to order and the City Council recessed into Closed Session to
discuss items on the posted Closed Session agenda. No reportable actions were taken.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
ACTION: Accept the Agenda as presented. Motion Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet,
seconded by Councilmember Foat and unanimously carried on a roll call vote.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
BRIAN LINNEKENS, updated the City Council on the status of his development project,
South Palm Canyon LLC, on Palm Canyon.
LESLIE MUNGER, Palm Springs, stated her support for an overlay ordinance in the
Deepwell Neighborhood, and commented on building up to eighteen feet tall in the
neighborhood.
MICHAEL SURINA, Palm Springs, stated his support for an overlay ordinance in the
Deepwell Neighborhood.
JONO HILDNER, Palm Springs, thanked the City Council and the Planning Commission
for the study session to address the Planned Development District process, commented
on the impact to the community, and requested that no further PDD applications be
accepted by the City.
ITEM NO.
City Council Minutes
March 14, 2007
Page 2
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND REQUESTS:
Mayor Oden requested the City Manager address the City's graffiti abatement program,
and requested the Police Department monitor the Riverside County Community School
for graffiti problems.
Councilmember Foat commented that the graffiti removal is in different colors and
requested staff address the different color cover-up of graffiti, and announced the
Hidden Harvest collection of home grown fruit in the City of Palm Springs.
Councilmember Mills thanked staff for the enforcement of the newspaper rack
ordinance on Palm Canyon Drive, but stated enforcement has been lacking in the
remainder of the City, especially at the gateway to the City.
Councilmember McCulloch requested staff address the eighteen foot tall building in the
Deepwell Neighborhood mentioned in public comment.
Mayor Oden announced that last week he was in Washington for the Community
Service Partnership National Conference, commented on the Riverside County
Community Action Partnership and CDBG programs.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: None.
JOINT STUDY SESSION WITH THE NEIGHBORHOOD INVOLVEMENT
COMMITTEE:
Neighborhood Involvement Committee Members present: Chair Bob Mahlowitz
(Sunmore), Nick Chicola (Deepwell), April Hildner (Tahquitz River Estates), Jim Lundin
(Deepwell), Roxann Ploss (Bel Desierto), and Ron Siegel (Bel Desierto).
SS1. UPDATE OF THE ACTIVITIES OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD INVOLVEMENT
COMMITTEE AND THE OFFICE OF NEIGHBORHOOD INVOLVEMENT:
City Manager Ready provided background information on the Neighborhood
Involvement Committee,
Bob Mahlowitz, Chair, introduced the Committee Members, provided an overview
of the Neighborhood Ordinance, the activities of the Committee and the
neighborhood groups during the last 12 months, and provided information on the
working subcommittees of the Neighborhood Involvement Committee.
April Hildner provided an overview and goals of the Education and Outreach
Committee and presented the ONI website.
Nick Chicola provided an overview and goals of the Crime and Safety
Committee, and commented on the focus of the Deepwell Neighborhood crime
and safety survey.
City Council Minutes
March 14, 2007
Page 3
Ron Siegel provided an overview of the Code Enforcement Committee,
commented on problem short-term rental houses in the neighborhood, and
requested the City Council assistance with the creation of a database and
tracking of problem short-term rental properties.
i Roxann Ploss provided an overview on the Neighborhood Character Committee,
commented on overlay zones and recommendations on how to form overlay
i zones.
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Bob Mahlowitz closed the presentation with information on the process of forming
a Neighborhood organization.
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' The City Council recessed at 7:27 P.M.
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The City Council reconvened at 7:36 P.M.
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet stated the appropriate place to discuss overlay zones
would be at the study session with the Planning Commission, requested the City
Manager address the status of short-term vacation rentals and measuring the
success of the short-term vacation rental program, stated it is an appropriate time
to review the ordinance pertaining to short-term rentals, commented on the early
notification process for development projects and interaction with the City
Council.
Councilmember Foat commented on the review of the short-term rental
ordinance, requested the crime prevention presentation be placed on PSCTV
Channel 17, and commented on the history of the development of the ONI
program.
Councilmember McCulloch commented on short-term vacation rental properties
and recommended staff review the previous discussion by the City Council, and
requested the City Attorney and Police Chief speak with the ONI with respect to
intimidation of those who do not belong in the neighborhood.
Councilmember Mills commented on short-term rentals and requested staff
research the previous discussion and efforts by the City Council subcommittee
on short-term rentals which was not adopted, and commented on the unintended
creation of boundaries when overlay zones are implemented.
Mayor Oden commented on the wonderful programs developed by the ONI,
commented on short-term vacation rentals in the City and recommended a
punitive assessment for repeat offenders, and expressed concerns with overlay
zones.
No action taken.
The City Council recessed at 8:01 P.M.
City Council Minutes
March 14, 2007
Page 4
The City Council reconvened at 8:10 P.M.
JOINT STUDY SESSION WITH THE PLANNING COMMISSION:
Planning Commissioners present: Chair Marantz, Vice Chair Hochanadel,
Commissioner Caffrey, Commissioner Cohen, Commissioner Hutcheson,
Commissioner Ringlein, and Commissioner Scott.
SS2. PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS AND PLANNING AND
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCEDURES:
City Manger Ready provided background information and how the discussion
with the Planning Commission interacts with the previous discussion with the
ON].
Craig Ewing, Director of Planning Services, provided background information on
Planned Development Districts and the number of PDD's submitted to the City
Council, outlined "public benefit" as in the Zoning Ordinance, commented on
street width, the size of a project to qualify as a PDT, and extensions of time to
develop the PDD_
Commission Chair Marantz stated the Commission has dedicated their study
session each month tackling a major topic as presented, and requested City
Council provide the Commission with direction on the issues as presented.
Discussion was held regarding street width, illegal parking and problems posed
to the Fire Department, and minimum street widths.
Councilmember Foat commented on the status of a project after it goes through
the process and the condition of the project when it is brought before the City
Council, and inquired if the Planning Commission has the tools it needs to make
a determination on such things as height, density, road width, guest parking,
public benefit, and general standards of the City.
Discussion was held regarding right-of-zone projects, the recommendations and
the tools the Planning Commission needs to address the problem areas in these
developments, height, and a range of development standards.
Councilmember Mills commented on the history of approving condominiums in
the City, requested Fire Department staff address the public safety issues,
commented on street width when designing a neighborhood, stated the
Commission and Council may need to review the use of driveway space as guest
parking, addressed the preliminary PD process and requested we implement a
preliminary process, and commented on benefit of a PD as being a better project,
as opposed to some other tangible "public benefit."
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet commented on street width and stated as we approach
build-out, the City should tighten development requirements with respect to
City Council Minutes
March 14, 2007
Page 5
density, setbacks, height and parking; commented on right-of-zone projects and
stated perhaps the General Plan is too generous in some respects, stated safety
should be a priority when approaching street width, and stated his support for the
use of PD's when necessary such as mixed-use downtown, however he
indicated he is not necessarily in favor of them in developed residential areas.
Councilmember McCulloch stated that perhaps a field trip should be worked into
an orientation with the City Council and the Planning Commission, stated he
would be in support of a pre-application process, commented on the benefits of a
PDD as opposed to some projects that are approved because they are right-of-
zone, and recommended that density be reviewed in the General Plan.
Mayor Oden stated the City did not always have the level of development, stated
when the Planning Commission did not like a project, the Commission did not
approve it, stated he would have preferred to hear recommendations from the
Commission on lot size and some of the other issues, and commented on the
benefit to a project with the PDD process, but suggested that the City should
consider minimum standards.
Commissioner Hutcheson stated the Commission did bring a recommendation
for the requirement for public benefit of a PDD. Discussion was held to place the
recommendations on a future agenda.
Director Ewing stated the Zoning Code has not changed and that the process
has evolved into a front loaded process with the current level of detail submitted
with the project, this is now why the Developers are currently spending an
increased amount of money to bring the PDD forward with all the technical
requirements. Director Ewing stated that staff can "strip off' some of the technical
requirements and see if the Commission and the Council would grant entitlement
approval based on a conceptual site plan, and would need that direction from the
Commission and the City Council.
Councilmember Foat stated staff should create a step before the current process
with all the technical requirements, recommended the Commission provide the
City Council with a document on what they want in the development process,
stated she is not in favor of development extensions based on the market, and
recommended the Commission address demolition before entitlement.
Mayor Pro Tem Pougnet commented on overlay zones and stated the document
prepared by the Commission is a very good document explaining the difficulties
with overlay zones, but we need further checks and balances in the system.
Councilmember Mills commented on the evaluation process of the project, and
stated the evaluation should not be on right-of-zone, but the amount of open
space.
No action taken.
City Council Minutes
March 14, 2007
Page 6
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND REPORTS: None.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 9:40 P.M. to a Regular Meeting,
Wednesday, March 21, 2007 at 6:00 P,M. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, preceded
by a Closed Session at 4:30 P.M., Small Conference Room, City Hall, 3200 East
Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
APPROVED BY A MOTION OF THE PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL THIS 4ffi
DAY OF APRIL, 2007.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
City Clerk
PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 21, 2007
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Oden called the meeting to order at 6:08 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Palm Springs Air Force ROTC Junior Color Guard, led the
Pledge.
INVOCATION: John Kavcak, Our Lady of Solitude, led the Invocation.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmember Foat, Councilmember McCulloch, Councilmember
Mills, Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet, and Mayor Oden.
ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Ready, City Attorney Holland, City Clerk Thompson.
PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Oden and the City Council presented Dr. Janice Lyle a Certificate of
Appreciation, for her service to the Palm Springs Art Museum, and proclaimed March
21, 2007 as Dr. Janice Lyle day in the City of Palm Springs.
Councilmember Foat announced the recent Principal for the Day event at Katherine
Finchy Elementary School.
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION: City Attorney Holland stated that at 4:30 P.M. the
meeting was called to order and the City Council recessed into Closed Session to
discuss items on the posted Closed Session agenda. No reportable actions were taken.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
City Clerk Thompson stated there was a request to hear Item 5_C. out of order,
immediately after the Consent Calendar.
Mayor Oden noted his abstention on Item 2.B., Approval of the March 7, 2007 Minutes.
Councilmember Mills noted his NO vote on Item 2.G., regarding the Suspension of the
Noise Ordinance for a Special Event.
Councilmember Foat requested Item 2.F. be removed from the Consent Calendar for
separate discussion, and asked a question on Consent Calendar Item 21-
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet noted his abstention on Item 2.C. Warrant No. 1019683, and
requested Items 2.E., 2.F., 2.G., 2.1., and 2.M. be removed from the Consent Calendar
for separate discussion.
City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
Page 2
ACTION: Accept the Agenda as amended. Motion Councilmember Mills, seconded
by Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet and unanimously carried on a roll call vote.
1. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1.A. CASE NO. 5.1091, AMENDMENT TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
DISTRICT 324 FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SPECIAL SIGN
DISTRICT (SP 07-023), AS PROVIDED BY SECTION 93.20.5CS OF THE
PALM SPRINGS ZONING CODE, TO CREATE A CONSTRUCTION
SIGNAGE PROGRAM FOR THE DOWNTOWN "PORT LAWRENCE"
RESIDENTIAL/RETAIL PROJECT LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST
CORNER OF NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE AND ALEJO ROAD:
Tom Wilson, Assistant City Manager, provided background information as
outlined in the staff report dated March 21, 2007.
Mayor Oden opened the public hearing and the following speaker
addressed the City Council.
LAWRENCE RAEL, Applicant, outlined his proposal to place two signs
above the fencing on Palm Canyon at Alejo and Indian Canyon at Alejo.
No further speakers coming forward, the public hearing was closed.
Councilmember Mills requested staff address the dimensions of the
billboard signs, as 16 feet on the horizontal and 12 feet on the vertical.
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet thanked the applicant for the removal of some of
the sign panels and the removal of the text.
Councilmember Mills requested staff address if the signs were single
sided, if any plans for the construction of the signs have been submitted,
commented on the expectations for the construction of the signage,
requested the construction of the signs be reviewed and approved by
staff, and stated he was not in favor of the advertising aspects of the
signage.
Assistant City Manager Wilson recommended that a sentence be added to
Condition No. 6 to read 'The installation of the sign and the structure of
the sign shall be approved by the Director of Planning Services."
Mayor Oden noted that he was not present during the first portion of the
public hearing, but did review the written materials and the video of the
meeting, and commented on design of the signs.
City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
i Page 3
ACTION: Re-adopt Resolution No. 21840, "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
i APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO CASE NUMBER 5.1091, AMENDING
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT 324 TO ESTABLISH A SIGN
DISTRICT (SP 07-023) FOR TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION SIGNAGE
AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE
AND ALEJO ROAD;" adding the billboard portion of the request to the sign
district, and adding in Condition No. 7 relative to billboards, and amending
Condition No. 6 by adding a sentence to read, "The installation of the sign
and the structure of the sign shall be approved by the Director of Planning
Services." Motion Councilmember Foat, seconded by Councilmember
McCulloch and carried 4-1 on a roll call vote.
AYES: Councilmember Foat, Councilmember McCulloch, Mayor Pro
Tern Pougnet, and Mayor Oden.
NOES: Councilmember Mills.
I.B. PRIME URBAN, BRIAN LUCAS - CASE NO. 5.1113 GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT, TO VACATE A PAPER STREET, PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT 329, AND TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 34829,
FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF 174 CONDOMINIUM UNITS AND
APPROXIMATELY 32,274 SQUARE FEET OF COMMERCIAL/RETAIL
SPACE ON 15.12 ACRES, LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF
RACQUET CLUB ROAD BETWEEN NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE
AND NORTH INDIAN CANYON DRIVE:
Marvin Roos, MSA Consulting, provided background information as
outlined in the staff report dated March 21, 2007.
Mayor Oden requested staff address the addition of 8 parking spaces.
Councilmember Foat requested staff address the additional parking
spaces, and to clarify the residential units between ownership and rental
units.
Mayor Oden requested staff address the height of the stacked-flats, and
the slope from Palm Canyon to Indian Canyon, and the placement of
commercial buildings in relation to the previous development.
Mayor Oden opened the public hearing and the following speakers
addressed the City Council.
DAVID HECT, Architect, provided information on the concerns as outlined
by the City Council at the previous hearing.
TOM DOCZI, Landscape Architect, provided background information on
the preliminary landscape plans.
City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
Page 4
STEVE HUGILL, stated he owns property near the proposed project, and
stated his support for development of the property.
KATHLEEN HOWARD, stated she owns property near the proposed
project, and stated her support for development of the property.
No further speakers coming forward, the public hearing was closed.
Councilmember McCulloch noted his comments at the previous public
hearing and recommended the City Council move forward.
Councilmember Mills requested the City's consultant address the
submission of a preliminary Planned Development and what the City
Council should be looking for as a preliminary submission, commented on
problems with the live-work units, circulation of the residential portion of
the site, and stated it is a poor site plan for residential construction.
Councilmember Foat stated this is a very important corner, and that no
changes have been made to address her concerns.
Mayor Oden noted that he was not present during the first portion of the
public hearing, but did review the materials and the video of the meeting,
commented on the residential and commercial aspects of the project,
stated that concerns for the neighbors have been addressed, and the
placement of trash receptacles can be worked out at the staff level.
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet stated he would not support the project as the
project is not the highest and best use of the property, changes were not
incorporated from the prior public hearing, and stated it could be a better
project.
MOTION: 1) Adopt "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION, AND APPROVING CASE NO. 5.1113-GPA,
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT 329, AND TENTATIVE TRACT
MAP 34829 FOR A PROPOSAL TO DEVELOP A 174 CONDOMINIUM
UNIT COMPLEX WITH APPROXIMATELY 32,274 SQUARE FEET OF
COMMERCIAL USE ON 15.12 ACRES LOCATED ALONG THE SOUTH
SIDE OF RACQUET CLUB ROAD BETWEEN NORTH PALM CANYON
DRIVE AND NORTH INDIAN CANYON DRIVE;" amending Condition No.
104 to read "The Applicant shall apply to the City for the vacation of
Zanjero Road and Rochelle Road. Prior to the vacation public hearing, the
Developer shall coordinate with each public utility company and determine
specific requirements as to the abandonment and/or relocation of existing
underground facilities that may exist within the public right-of-way to be
City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
Page 5
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abandoned. Prior to the public hearing, the Developer shall provide to the
City Engineer a letter of approval regarding the proposed abandonment of
I Rochelle Road and Zanjero Road rights-of-way from each public utility
agency." and 2) Adopt "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION, AND APPROVING CASE NO.
i 5.1113 GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT TO REMOVE A PAPER
STREET, ZANJERO ROAD, FROM THE CITY'S GENERAL PLAN
' CIRCULATION ELEMENT." Motion Councilmember McCulloch,
seconded by Mayor Oden and failed 2-3 on a roll call vote.
AYES: Councilmember McCulloch, and Mayor Oden.
NOES: Councilmember Foat, Councilmember Mills, and Mayor Pro
Tern Pougnet.
Mayor Oden commented on a previous project on Ramon Road, that took
two additional years, and stated the City Council suggestions did not
improve the project.
Councilmember Foat stated the City Council is not a rubber stamp
approval, previously the City Council has made input and improvements to
other projects, and the issues with this project have not been addressed.
Councilmember McCulloch stated we are not rubber stamping the project,
and that this project has gone through staff review, architectural review,
and Planning Commission review.
Councilmember Mills commented on the previous project as proposed by
Mr. Burnett, and stated this project has the opportunity to be a better
project.
ACTION: Refer the project back to the Planning Commission and for
architectural review for restudy. Motion Councilmember Mills,
seconded by Councilmember Foat and carried 3-2 on a roll call vote.
AYES. Councilmember Foat, Councilmember Mills, and Mayor Pro
Tem Pougnet.
NOES: Councilmember McCulloch, and Mayor Oden.
I.C. REQUEST BY STANDARD PACIFIC OF COACHELLA VALLEY TO
VACATE A PORTION OF PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT WITHIN LOTS
1 AND 2 OF TRACT MAP NO. 32233-1, RECORDED IN BOOK 381 OF
MAPS, PAGES 59-67 INCLUSIVE, IN SECTION 18, TOWNSHIP 4
SOUTH, RANGE 5 EAST; FILE R 06-039:
David Barakian, City Engineer, provided background information as
outlined in the staff report dated March 21, 2007.
City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
Page 6
Mayor Oden opened the public hearing, and no speakers coming forward
the public hearing was closed.
ACTION: 1) Adopt Resolution No. 21848, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, VACATING
A PORTION OF PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT WITHIN LOTS 1 AND 2
OF TRACT MAP NO. 32233-1, RECORDED IN BOOK 381 OF MAPS,
PAGES 59-67 INCLUSIVE, IN SECTION 18, TOWNSHIP 4 SOUTH,
RANGE 5 EAST, FILE R 06-039;" and 2) Authorize the City Manager to
execute all necessary documents. Motion Councilmember Mills,
seconded by Councilmember Foat and unanimously carried on a roll
call vote.
Councilmember Mills stated he has a client relationship with the Applicant for
Item 1.D. and a conflict of interest, would not participate in the discussion or the
vote, and left Council Chamber.
I.D. REQUEST BY D. W. JOHNSTON TO APPROVE TENTATIVE TRACT
MAP 31422-A TO SUBDIVIDE APPROXIMATELY 2.5 ACRES INTO
FIVE LOTS LOCATED AT 2630 ANZA TRAIL:
Edward Robertson, Principal Planner, provided background information as
outlined in the staff report dated March 21, 2007.
Councilmember Foat requested staff number the pages, requested staff
address the on-site private streets, and the undergrounding of utilities.
Mayor Pro Tem Pougnet requested staff address the minimum lot size on
lot 1 and lot 5.
Mayor Oden opened the public hearing, and no speakers coming forward
the public hearing was closed.
ACTION: Adopt Resolution No. 21849, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31422-A TO SUBDIVIDE
APPROXIMATELY 2.5 ACRES INTO FIVE LOTS LOCATED AT 2630
ANZA TRAIL, ZONE R-1-8, SECTION 25, APNs 510-130-008 and 510-
130-025." Motion Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet, seconded by Mayor Oden
and unanimously carried 4-0 on a roll call vote.
AYES: Councilmember Foat, Councilmember McCulloch, Mayor Pro
Tern Pougnet, and Mayor Oden.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Councilmember Mills.
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City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
Page 7
Councilmember Mills returned to the dais.
1.E. INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE EXTENDING ORDINANCE NOS.
1687 AND 1688 A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON THE
ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA
DISPENSARIES IN THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS:
City Attorney Holland provided background information as outlined in the
staff report dated March 21, 2007.
Mayor Oden opened the public hearing, and the following speakers
addressed the City Council.
EDWARD LEONARD, Palm Springs, stated the use of marijuana is a
felony, he uses medical marijuana and requested the City Council support
the use of medical marijuana.
ANTHONY CURIALE, Attorney representing the Palm Springs Safe
Access Collective Association, commented on the difference between an
association versus a collective and their respective rights, and stated his
clients will comply with the requirements and inspection.
CARLO P. stated his support for the use of medical marijuana.
JOY MEREDITH, Palm Springs, stated the Task Force did not receive
notice of the public hearing, and stated the City Council is trying to do the
right thing for the residents and downtown, and she is hopeful that the City
comes up with rules and regulations to allow for dispensaries in the City of
Palm Springs.
LANNY SWERDLOW, stated he was not notified of the meeting, and
expressed concerns with the extension of the moratorium for an additional
year, and requested the moratorium be extended by three months.
JESSICA WALL, outlined some of the experiences of patients that use
medical marijuana, and requested one dispensary be allowed to operate
under the moratorium.
RICK PANTELE, stated his support to allow residents to have access to
medical marijuana.
DONALD SAQUE, stated he is a medical marijuana user, and requested
the City Council allow the operation of dispensaries in the City of Palm
Springs.
City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
Page 8
STACY HOCHANADEL, stated his support for medical marijuana
dispensaries and requested the moratorium be shorter than the one-year
period.
No further speakers coming forward, the public hearing was closed.
Councilmember Foat provided information on the previous Council's
action on allowing dispensaries in the City of Palm Springs, stated she
had requested an opinion from the Attorney General on Prop. 215 and the
use of Medical Marijuana Dispensaries, and stated staff and the Council
subcommittee will come forward and the process will not take a year.
Councilmember McCulloch stated he attended the CVAG Public Safety
Committee and commented on questions from Assistant United States
Attorney and the Acting Assistant Attorney General, stated medical
marijuana has a legitimate use and has requested reconciliation from
Congresswoman Bono for Federal and State laws.
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet commented on the progress of the
subcommittee, and stated that the City Council will pursue the right path.
Mayor Oden requested staff address the noticing of the hearing, and
commented on complaints from businesses in the area of the former
dispensaries.
Councilmember Mills requested staff provide information on the new
dispensary operating in the City.
Councilmember Foat requested staff address the time period in Section 9.
ACTION: 1) Adopt the staff report as the written report required pursuant
to Government Code Section 65858; 2) Waive the reading of the
Ordinance text in its entirety and adopt by title only; and 3) Adopt Interim
Urgency Ordinance No. 1710, "AN INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, EXTENDING
ORDINANCE NOS. 1687 AND 1688, A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON
THE LEGAL ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF MEDICAL
MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES WITHIN THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
FOR AN ADDITIONAL PERIOD OF TWELVE MONTHS PENDING
COMPLETION OF A STUDY OF ZONING REGULATIONS THAT ARE
NEEDED TO ALLEVIATE A CURRENT AND ACTUAL THREAT TO THE
PUBLIC HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE." Motion Councilmember
Foat, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet and unanimously carried
on a roll call vote.
The City Council recessed at 8:35 P.M.
City Council Minutes
March 21, 2007
Page 9
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The City Council reconvened at 8:43 P_M.
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PUBLIC COMMENT:
TOM JOHNSTON, Palm Springs, requested the City Council review the moratorium that
prohibits financial institutions in the Downtown area, as he only wants to move his
existing business from one suite to another in the same building.
FRED BELL, BIA Desert Chapter, spoke regarding Item 3.A., the establishment of a
Resource Conservation Commission, requested the City Council review the Cathedral
City program, and requested the Building Industry be allowed representation on the
Commission.
JOY MEREDITH, Palm Springs, reported on the activities of Main Street, and stated 46
new businesses have located in Downtown Palm Springs.
BILL RANSOM, requested the City Council support Item 2.G., the temporary
suspension of the noise ordinance for the White Party weekend.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND REQUESTS:
Mayor Oden commented on the Community Blood Bank.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: None.
2. CONSENT CALENDAR:
ACTION: Approve Items 2.A., 2.B., 2.C., 2.D., 2.H., 2.J., 2.K., and 21. Motion
Councilmember McCulloch, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet and
unanimously carried on a roll call vote.
2.A. REPORT ON POSTING OF THE AGENDA:
ACTION: Receive and file Report on the Posting of the March 21, 2007,
City Council Agenda. Approved as part of the Consent Calendar.
2.8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
ACTION: Approve the City Council Minutes of March 7, 2007. Approved
as part of the Consent Calendar, noting the abstention of Mayor
Oden,
2.C. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL WARRANTS, CLAIMS AND DEMANDS:
ACTION: 1) Adopt Resolution No_ 21850, "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING PAYMENT OF PAYROLL WARRANTS FOR THE PERIOD
ENDED 2-24-07 BY WARRANTS NUMBERED 411573 THROUGH
411624 TOTALING $83,491.88, LIABILITY CHECKS NUMBERED
1019485 THROUGH 1019518 TOTALING $141,630.47, THREE WIRE
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March 21, 2007
Page 10
TRANSFERS FOR $58,594.17, AND THREE ELECTRONIC ACH
DEBITS OF $1,204,600.39 IN THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF
$1,488,216.91 DRAWN ON BANK OF AMERICA;" and 2) Adopt
Resolution No. 21851, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING PAYMENT
OF CLAIMS AND DEMANDS BY WARRANTS NUMBERED 1019519
THROUGH 1019723 IN THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $2,082,252.57
DRAWN ON BANK OF AMERICA." Approved as part of the Consent
Calendar, noting the abstention of Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet on
Warrant No. 1019683.
2.D. SIDE LETTER OF AGREEMENT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING (MOU) BETWEEN THE MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEE
RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE AND THE PALM SPRINGS POLICE
OFFICERS ASSOCIATION:
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8015, Approving a side letter of
agreement to the July 1, 2006, to June 30, 2009, Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) between the Municipal Employee Relations
Representative (MERR) and the Palm Springs Police Officers Association
(PSPOA) representing the Police Safety Unit; and 2) Authorize the City
Manager to execute all necessary documents. A5340. Approved as part
of the Consent Calendar.
2.H. TRAFFIC SIGNAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES AGREEMENT
EXTENSION WITH THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE THROUGH JUNE 30,
2009:
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8017, Approving an extension to
Agreement No. A4725 with the County of Riverside through June 30,
2009, in the maximum amount of $200,000 per year for Fiscal Years
2007-08 and 2008-09; and 2) Authorize the City Manager to execute all
necessary documents. A4725. Approved as part of the Consent
Calendar.
2.J. AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE CVAG GRANT REIMBURSEMENT
AGREEMENT FOR THE INDIAN CANYON DRIVE STREET AND
BRIDGE WIDENING PROJECT, CITY PROJECT NO. 01-11:
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8019, Approving Amendment No. 2
to the CVAG Grant Reimbursement Agreement for the Indian Canyon
Drive Street and Bridge Widening Project in the amount of $50,100 for a
revised total regional Measure A amount of $1,625,275; and 2) Authorize
the City Manager to execute all necessary documents. A4394. Approved
as part of the Consent Calendar.
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March 21, 2007
Page 11
2.K. AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO AGREEMENT NO. A4461 WITH DOKKEN
ENGINEERING FOR THE INDIAN CANYON DRIVE STREET AND
BRIDGE WIDENING PROJECT, CITY PROJECT NO. 01-11:
ACTION: 1) Adapt Minute Order No. 8020, Approving Amendment No. 2
to Agreement No. A4461 with Dokken Engineering in the amount of
$50,100 for a revised total contract amount of $499,900 for environmental
and engineering design services for the Indian Canyon Drive Street and
Bridge Widening Project, City Project No. 01-11" and 2) Authorize the City
i Manager to execute all necessary documents. A4461. Approved as part
! of the Consent Calendar.
2.L. AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO AGREEMENT NO. A5336 WITH EVERGREEN
RECYCLING SOLUTIONS FOR SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT AND
j RECYCLING CONSULTING SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $45,000:
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8021, Approving Amendment No. 1
to Agreement No. A5336 with Evergreen Recycling Solutions for municipal
solid waste management and recycling consulting services in an amount
not to exceed $45,000: and 2) Authorize the City Manager to execute all
necessary documents. A5336. Approved as part of the Consent
Calendar,
New Business Item 5.C. was taken out of order and heard immediately following the
Consent Calendar.
City Manager Ready indicated he has a conflict of interest with respect to Item 5.C., as
he previously taught classes at the University, indicated he had not participated in any
way in negotiation nor the making of the agreement, and left Council Chamber.
5,C. FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY OF SAN
BERNARDINO:
Troy Butzlaff, Assistant City Manager, provided background information as
outlined in the staff report dated March 21, 2007.
FRED JANDT, Dean, California State University San Bernardino, outlined the
design of the building, programs and benefits to Palm Springs and residents.
KEVIN O'BRIEN, Architect, outlined the goals of the new facilities.
TED COLEMAN, Department of Health Science, provided information on the
content to be offered in the new facilities-
DAVID DeMAURO, Vice President, provided information on the administration of
the project and the estimated completion date, about 12 to 14 months to build the
project and to open in September, 2008.
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March 21, 2007
Page 12
Councilmember Foat requested the University staff address if the project is a
green building.
Councilmember Mills stated he looked forward for the motion to go forward, and
requested the University screen the mechanical equipment on the building.
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet commented on the history and development of the
program, and thanked staff.
Councilmember McCulloch stated it will be a great facility and the City has the
need, but expressed concerns for the funding of the project, and requested staff
address the funding_
Mayor Oden commented on funding mechanism, and thanked City staff, and
University staff.
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8023, Approving an agreement with
California State University San Bernardino to provide community assistance
funding towards the construction of the new Health Sciences Building at the Palm
Desert Campus; 2) Adopt Resolution No. 21853, "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006-07;" and 3) Authorize the Mayor to
execute all necessary documents. A5446. Motion Councilmember Mills,
seconded by Councilmember Foat and unanimously carried on a roll call
vote.
City Manager Ready returned to Council Chamber.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR:
2.E. PURCHASE OF SEATING AND TABLES FOR NEW REGIONAL JET
TERMINAL BUILDING AT THE AIRPORT:
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet requested staff address the reduction of seats, so that
we do not go over the bid amount.
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8016, Awarding RFP 07.07 to G/M
Business Interiors for the purchase, delivery and installation of new "Herman
Miller Eames Tandem Sling" seating and tables at the Airport Regional Jet
Holdroom in an amount not-to-exceed $300,000; and 2) Authorize the City
Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectuate the purchase. Motion
Mayor Pro Tem Pougnet, seconded by Mayor Oden and unanimously
carried on a roll call vote.
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March 21, 2007
Page 13
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2.F. REVIEW OF MUNICIPAL CODE ORDINANCE REVISIONS PROPOSED BY
THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD:
Councilmember Foat requested staff address the report, stated some of the
recommended changes by the Historic Site Preservation Board will need to be
reviewed and addressed, and requested these items be brought forward in a
future study session agenda.
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet stated the Board is looking for direction, and requested
a Joint Meeting with the Board.
ACTION: Receive and file the Review of the Municipal Code Ordinance Revision
Proposed by the Historic Site Preservation Board. Motion Councilmember
McCulloch, seconded by Mayor Oden and unanimously carried on a roll
call vote.
2.G. TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF NOISE ORDINANCE (CHAPTER 11.74.00),
NOISE NUISANCE (CHAPTER 11.08.040), DANCES (CHAPTER 5.12), AND
SIGN ORDINANCE (CHAPTER 93.20.00) AND APPROVING A CARNIVAL ON
APRIL 6, 7, AND 8, 2007, TO FACILITATE THE PLANNED EVENTS FOR THE
WHITE PARTY:
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet requested a Financial Impact report and accountability
for these weekend events, and requested a post event date 60-days after the
event,
Councilmember Mills stated he is not in favor of suspending the noise ordinance.
ACTION: Adopt Resolution No, 21852, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, SUSPENDING
NOISE ORDINANCE (CHAPTER 11.74.00), NOISE NUISANCE (CHAPTER
11,08.040), DANCES (CHAPTER 5,12), AND SIGN ORDINANCE (CHAPTER
93.20.00), AND APPROVING A CARNIVAL ON APRIL 6, 7, AND 8, 2007, TO
FACILITATE THE PLANNED EVENTS FOR THE "WHITE PARTY" LOCATED
AT 888 EAST TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, 277 NORTH AVENIDA
CABALLEROS AND 444 EAST ARENAS ROAD." Motion Mayor Pro Tern
Pougnet, seconded by Mayor Oden and carried 4-1 on a roll call vote.
AYES: Councilmember Foat, Councilmember McCulloch, Mayor Pro Tern
Pougnet, and Mayor Oden.
NOES: Councilmember Mills.
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March 21, 2007
Page 14
2.1. PURCHASE OF NATURAL GAS FOR A TERM NOT TO EXCEED 24
MONTHS:
Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet requested staff provide information on the current
contract and pricing.
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8018, Authorizing the City Manager to enter
into an agreement for the purchase of natural gas for a term not to exceed 24
months; and 2) Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
A5445. Motion Mayor Pro Tom Pougnet, seconded by Councilmember Foat
and unanimously carried on a roll call vote.
2.M. AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO AGREEMENT NO. A5119 WITH LSA ASSOCIATES,
INC., FOR ADDITIONAL PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR THE
COMPLETION OF A JOINT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE
BOULDERS PROJECT 5.0973 AND CRESCENDO PROJECT 5.0996 AND
TTM 31766:
Mayor Pro Tem Pougnet request staff provide an update on the over-all project
and timeline of the project.
ACTION: 1) Adopt Minute Order No. 8022, Approving Amendment No. 1 to
Agreement No. A5119 with LSA Associates, Inc. in the amount of $17,000.00, for
a total contract price of $134,000.00, for additional professional services for the
preparation of and responses to comments of a Joint Environmental Impact
Report for Projects 5.0973, 5.0996, and TTM 33514; 2) Authorize the City
Manager to execute all necessary documents in a form acceptable to the City
Attorney. A5119. Motion Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet, seconded by
Councilmember Mills and unanimously carried on a roll call vote.
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3. LEGISLATIVE:
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3.A. PROPOSED ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AND SPECIFYING THE
DUTIES AND POWERS OF A SEVEN-MEMBER RESOURCE
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CONSERVATION COMMISSION:
City Attorney Holland provided background information as outlined in the
staff report dated March 21, 2007.
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Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet provided information on the changes
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recommended by the City Council subcommittee.
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t Councilmember Mills commented on the proposed make-up of the
Commission, and requested a further change to Section 2.24.050.
Councilmember Foat requested clarification on the start-up of the
i Commission, and the Commission's participation in green building.
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March 21, 2007
Page 15
ACTION: 1) Waive the reading of the ordinance text in its entirety and
read by title only; and 2) Introduce on first reading Ordinance No. 1711,
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
ADDING CHAPTER 2.28 TO THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE,
RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE RESOURCE
CONSERVATION COMMISSION" amending Section 2.24.0500,(a) to
read "City policies affecting energy and natural resources conservation."
Motion Councilmember Mills, seconded by Mayor Pro Tom Pougnet
and unanimously carried on a roll call vote.
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None.
5. NEW BUSINESS:
5.A. APPOINTMENTS TO THE BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES:
City Clerk Thompson provided background information as outlined in the
staff report dated March 21, 2007.
ACTION: Appoint Lori Weignat for the unexpired term ending June 30,
2008 and Kimberly Nichols for the unexpired term ending June 30, 2009 to
the Board of Library Trustees. Motion Councilmember Mills, seconded
by Mayor Pro Tom Pougnet and unanimously carried on a roll call
vote.
5.B. APPOINT TWO MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO SERVE ON
THE ANIMAL SHELTER SUBCOMMITTEE:
ACTION: Appoint Councilmember Foat and Councilmember Mills to serve
on the Animal Shelter Subcommittee. Motion Councilmember Foat,
seconded by Councilmember Mills and unanimously carried on a roll
call vote.
5.C. ITEM 5.C, WAS TAKEN OUT OF ORDER AND HEARD IMMEDIATELY
FOLLOWING THE CONSENT CALENDAR.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND REPORTS:
Councilmember McCulloch requested the City Attorney review the request made by
Tom Johnston, regarding the relocation of a financial office in the Downtown area, and
wished Mayor Oden a Happy Birthday!
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Councilmember Foat requested assistance for a Fundraising Committee for the Animal
Shelter.
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Councilmember Mills requested staff review the Plans for the approval of The Springs
and to ensure the direction of Council was included in the updated Plans.
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March 21, 2007
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Page 16
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Mayor Oden announced the events and activities attended by the Mayor's Office.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council adjourned at 9:53 P.M. to a Study Session,
Wednesday, March 28, 2007, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, preceded
by a Closed Session at 4:30 p.m., in the Small Conference Room, City Hall, 3200 East
Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
APPROVED BY A MOTION OF THE PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL THIS 4tn
DAY OF APRIL, 2007.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
City Clerk