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HomeMy WebLinkAbout5/14/2008 - STAFF REPORTS - 1.F. CITY COUNCIL CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA (`,�`'0 M aq � MINUTES EXCERPTS September 27, 2007 General Plan Discussion The City Council commented on and/or discussed Chapter 9, Community Design with respect to Palm Skirt Trimming, Neighborhood Character, Traffic Calming, conditions to bring non-conforming into conformance, undergrounding existing overhead electrical lines. ACTION: Direct staff to include a goal in the General Plan that includes the current trimming of palm trees with "skirts" at 12 feet on Filliferas, up to 6' below the live fronds on Robustas; and add an additional goal of "skinning" of Robusta palms up to the skirt line, and phasing out Robustas by replacing them with Filliferas when they die or need replacement. By consensus of the City Council noting the objection of Councilmember Foat and Mayor Oden. ITEM NO. ' F COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT Y .. A � ..'�7d�'•.R � f•itl� ^�Y / 'kr't r-n Ilp: � :J'� i' r Landscaping is a crucial component of Palm Springs'identityf and appeal and greatly strengthens its sense of place. The Cicy's unique mix of landscaping and trees adds to the -•,.' T w ''' - character of the City's neighborhoods and reinforces the * r design Identity of the community. A consistent and com- prehensive landscaping palette should be adopted and incorporated into community design co: (1) provide"a . unifying design element along arrerials, (2) accent gateway features and special areab,(3)provide shade along streets and sidewalks and in parking lots, (4) buffer adjacent uses, and (5) create a strong sense of place. Landscaping within neighborhoods and districts should be used to create unique and clearly defined areas wrrhin the City. GOAL CD7: Use both public and private landscaping along streets, y Sl 1 sidewalks, and property frontages to strengthen the existing City identity a..........__-- ------ ------ •--• � �` � �l„'_ �wt_�'... . Y ' nd ensure a pleasarit environment. b: �y Policies -- I rrrrri CD7.1 Encourage the use of native desert plants and trees rhac require minimal water and maintenance, CD7.2 Select plant species that will: (a) enhance the pedestrian character and convey a distinctive and d' •r�lprv�{ wti,h;;',p;} ; y rc., ?i ,i r. .'9 high quality visual image for the City's streets, _,,,' ..'xpi .i •' }`'D "" �'� '' r n (b) be drought coletauc and flee and pest „ -w { ' resistant, (c) require low maintenance and no '+t "' .� ' ''•i'di " '� pesticides, and (d) conoplecnent cxibting •7' t re landscape.],,,, . 1 q CD7.3 Amend the City's Palm Tree Trimming policy m � r require shinning of trunks of Washingtonia robuscas(Mexicali fan palms)in the public right-of- way to create a more maintained appearance. � Palm springs 2007 General Plan Page 9.23 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS GENERAL PLAN CD7.4 Phase our the use of Washing[onia robustas (Mexican Fan palms) in the public right-of-way. As robustas die or are replaced, use Washingtonra filiferas for rhea replacement and in new landscape designs in Elie public right-of-way. CD7.5 Fnsure that all public landscaping is adequately maintained. Overpruning and pruning into unnatural shapes is discouraged. Rather, landscaping should have a natural look and feel. When appropriate, a licensed arboris[ should be consulted prior Eo inscallauon and maintenance of public landscaping CD7.6 Ensure thar new development provides for the installation of public landscaping in accordance with an approved landscaping plan. CD7.7 Encourage the use of compacted coarse-grained sand,decomposed granite or pebbles An medians and areas with exposed ground to prevemE dispersion by wind. Actions 7.1 Adopt a tree preservation ordinance. 7.2 Create a street-tree plan with a hierarchy of streer trees for major thoroughfares. (See Figure 9-2, Special Sweetrrrpe Treatment[.) 7.3 Create a landscape maintenance plan and develop a protocol for consulting with a licensed arboris[ is appropriate. 7.4 Facilitate Elie creation of volunteer groups m assisE Elie City with the beaurificarion of the public streets through fundraising and assistance in planung and maintenance of landscaping. COAL DO: ------------ Achieve and maintain a high level of lands cape quality on private properties chroughou[ the City. Policies CD8.1 Encourage property owners CO maintain the existing vegetation on developed saes and replace unhealthy or dead landscaping. C082 Rcquae Ehar developers incorporate appropriately sized vegetation and provide suffiuenE watering and maintenance in Elie landscaping of the project site that will provide a mature-looking landscape within three Eo five years of installation. Page 9.24 Palm Springs 2007 General Plan 000033 �O pAI.M SpQ CITY OF PALM SPRINGS MEMORANDUM CITY CLERKS DEPARTMENT TO: David H. Ready, City Manager .f FROM: James Thompson, City Cie - DATE: May 22, 2007 SUBJECT: Palm Tree Trimming Policy Based on recent discussion of the City Council, you requested information or any legislative history for a policy of trimming palm trees. LEGISLATIVE SEARCH 1962-09-24 Council Minutes Palm Trees be trimmed only sufficiently enough not to conflict with lighting fixtures and to alleviate any hazard, thereby leaving the fronds with a "skirt." Attachment 1 1982-07-28 Council Minutes Adoption of a Palm Tree Trimming Policy, Attachment 2 1996-11 06 Council Minutes Direct Planning Commission to review and make recommendations to City Council i.e. Palm Tree Trimming. [Attachment 3] 1996-12-05 MainStreet MainStreet unanimous support for keeping the existing Palm Tree Policy for Downtown. Attachment 4 1997-02-26 Planning Recommending to the City Council revisions to the Commission current palm tree trimminq policy. Attachment 5 1997-02-26 Tribe Tribal Planning Commission request that predominant palms be maintained in as natural state as possible. Attachment 6 2000-02-23 Planning Re-recommend that the City Council revise palm Commission tree trimming policy as reviewed and recommended in 1997. Attachment 7 2000-03-0$ Council Minutes City Council discussion on Palm Tree Trimming Study Session Polic . Attachment 8 It appears that the Policy adopted in 1982 as contained in attachment 2 is the current City Council Policy with respect to palm tree trimming. 0000N ,41S5 Minutes 9-24-62 - Page 7 - vote, no dissenting vote; Kirk and, Bogert absent_ c) Upon motion by Paisley, seconded by Carlin, Minute Order AWARD CONTRACT No. 941, awarding contract for purchase'of Golf Course FOR GOLF Dry 'Fertilizer to California Chemical Company, in amount COURSE of $981.40, was adopted by record vote; no dissenting DRY ' vote; Kirk and Bogert absent, FERTILIZER Here City Manager stated that Golf Course Greens•Superin— tendent had'reecmmended award to Faster-Gardner, who was- not the low bidder, and for the reason that this company had offered various services, including soil testing and technical advice when problems arose, 'aithough'the Director-'- '-' -- o£ Finance advised all fertilizer contained "same chemical content, and if additional services were required', they should be stipulated in the advertisement, 'and, therefore, recommended awarE,to• the low responsible bidder-, ' '3� cl d) Upon-motion by Strebe, seconded by Beebe; Minnte ,Order No AWARD C014TRACT 942, awarding contract for purchase of 5 electric golf cart& FOR 5 ELECTRIC to Electric Marketeer" in the amount of $3,303.00 was GOLF CARTS adopted by record vote-; no dissenting vote; Kirk and Bogert absent. 12. ABC Application by ,Victor H. & Eva H. Wallace for Off-Sale Beer SAHARA PARK & Wine at Sahara Park Stare, 1955 Camino Real. No protests. STORE BE1:R LICENSE 13. Information: - - - Due ,to League of California Cities Conference October 21-24, COUNCIL MTG. 1962, suggest that last meeting in October be held October DATE 29, 1962, instead ,of October. 22, 1962 CHANGED 14. Reconstruction of'iuildirig at'Airport Recently Destroyed bXFire: Airport Director reported that building must be completely demolished and that thejAirpert Commission has recommended BUILDING AT reconstruction at .ah-estimated cost of $7500.00, and is requesting ' AIRPORT authorization to advertise for bids . . ' DESTROYED BY Upon motion by Strebe, seconded by Carlin, Minute, Order No. 943, FIRE directing that bids for construction of building be advertised S1 for, was adopted by voice vote; no dissenting vote; Kirk and _ Bogert absent, DISCUSSION PERIOD: - - L Mr. McKinney requested, and upon motion by McKinney, seconded by TRIMMING OP Strebe, Minute Order No'. 944, dirading that palm trees be trimmed PATM TREES only sufficiently enough not to conflict with lighting fixtures and to alleviate any hazard, thereby leaving the fronds with a "skirt" effect, was adopted by voice vote; no dissenting vote; Kirk and Bogert absent. 2; Mrs'. Carlin Keque'sted that the City Council petition the Public' LOCAL Utilities Commission for -an investigation and hearing regarding ELECTRIC electric power service rates. POWER Mr.. Beebe advised that a local group is currently undertaking SERVICE I - study and will have a report of their findings, and requested RATES that this matter be deferred., pending completion of said report. Upon motion by Carlin', seconded by Strebe, Res. No. '7097, re- questing the-Public Utilities Commission to investigate alactrie power service rates in 'Palm Springs; and, further stating that, I at .such time as the abovementioned local group should ,pzesent a report of theiK .findings, the Council would accept the report and forward same to the 'Public Utilities Commission foi considerat'lon, was adopted by record vote; no dissenting vote; Kirk and Bogert absent. t 090 Council Minutes 7-28-82 Page li 34- PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY Recommendation: That the Council establish criteria for palm tree trimming within the City and incorporate same (114) as a policy in the Administrative Procedures & Policies Manual; matter was reviewed at the last study session. Minute Order 3116, establishing the policy, was presented; after which, it was moved by Ortner, seconded by Foster, and unanimously carried, Doyle absent, that Minute Order 31-16 he adopted. REPORTS & REQUESTS: 35. Departmental Reports - Received & Ordered Filed a) Treasurer's Monthly - May, 1982 36. CITY COUNCIL reports or requests - None w 37. PUSLIC reports or requests a) Allen Perrier, 225 S. Civic, stated that there are some appeals before the Tribal Council which involve significant fees; that indication is that those will be successful and the City Council 's decision reversed; that the drainage fee for dimsAir will be $93,000, and in view of the circumstances, it is unjustified for it to have to put up that money in order to move forward with its project; that request is made for ' the Council to set the appeal for hearing, if for no other reason than to table it and place it in the same status as other projects an appeal; and that JimsAir is willing to post bond to assure payment of the fee. City Manager stated that one -issue relates to whether drainage fee is appropriate; and the second relates to the status of Lhe appeal ; that he has questions regarding validity of the appeal ; that the authority to attach the fee is ordinance of the Council and is not a discretionary matter; that the ordinance itself should be dealt with in that regard; that both the Tribal Council and the City have received the revised master, plan; that thcre has been some difficulty in arranging meeting with the local engineers to see if, in their judgement, there are: any technical problems and, if so, it will be necessary to go back to the flood control district and resolve those - if not, then the next step would be isolating problem areas in order to know where funds should go to achieve the greatest benefit; that the Tribal Council understood that the revised plan had just been received, and that cnnuniemeat has been made to follow through in a timely manner; and that the Council will be involved in looking at that and makings the ultimate decision on the drainage plan. No action taken. Ofl � ^u" 2 Y C OF PALM SPRINOS, CALIFORNIA olvlelaN secr an sueJEc — -----'—T— PROCEDURES AND POLICIES --- 0 5 1 REFERENCE EFFECTIVEGwY6 SUBJECT PACIE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT: —� TRIMMING OF PALM TREES WI.THIN THE 7-2$-82 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS 1 OF 3 0.0 DEPARTMENTS AFFECTED 0. 1 Community Development O.2 Community Services 0.3 Planning Commission 0.4 Architectural Advisory Committee 0.5 General Public 1.0 PURPOSE 1.1 It is the purpose of this policy to establish the criteria for palm tree trimming within the City of Palm Springs. This policy shall apply to palm trees located within the following areas : a. Public right-of-way. b. Parks. C. Landscape easements. 1.2 This policy will assign the authority to review palm trees and/or determine the need for trimming trees. 2.0 BACKGROUND 2. 1 The City of Palm Springs desires its palm trees to have a consistent aesthetically-appealing appearance. This general appearance of palm trees is enhanced by the natural "skirt" which is formed by the dried fronds of the palm tree. In the past there has been a lack of clarity about the City of Palm Springs' policies and procedures pertaining to the trimming of palm tree fronds ("skirts") . This policy is designed to clarify the procedures for palm tree trim- ming and establish a consistent policy as to exceptions and how they will be dealt with. 3.0 POLICY 3. 1 All palm trees located within the areas defined in Section 1. 1 of this policy shall be trimmed by the Parks Division as often as deemed nec- essary until such time as the lower edge of the fronds "skirts" are twelve (12) feet from the ground. r le Tee,v- I ` ` -- errWovEoev CITY COUNCIL MU 3116, 7-28-$2 �` �. C OF PALM SPRINGS, CAI IFORNIA elvlelen Bac ion aue�ec PROCEDURES AND POLICIES J 5 1 REFERENCE EFFECTIVE DATE 51j.JACT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT:— PAGE 7-28-82 TRIMMING OF PALM TREES WITHIN THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS 2 or 3 3.2 No exception shall be made to this policy without approval of the Planning Commission upon recommendation of the Architectural Ad- visory Committee, according to procedures hereinafter provided, 3.3 Seed pod trimming is not a part of this procedure and policy state- ment and will be trimmed at the discretion of city staff, 4.0 DEFINITIONS 4. 1 Hazard - An identifiable potential for injury to any person or damage to public, real , or personal property. 5.0 PROCEDURE 5. 1 The Architectural Advisory Committee will review at its regularly scheduled meetings, all requests for palm tree trimming which are exceptions to the twelve (12) foot rule, as stated in Section 3.1. 5. 2 The Architectural Advisory Committee shall base its recommendations supporting palm tree trimming in excess of the twelve (12) foot rule, utilizing (but not limited to) the following guidelines: a. Street Lightin - Palm trees adversely affecting the lighting of any public street and/or intersection. b. Power Lines - Palm trees determined to be potentially hazardous. C. Traffic Signals & Warning Signs - Palm trees deter- mined to be obstructing vision. d. Bus Stops - Palm trees which may obstruct the passage of buses on public streets. e. Proximity to Structures - Palm trees close to or adja- cent to buildings or other structures which may con- stitute a hazard. f. Aesthetic Consideration - Palm trees in groups of various sizes and shapes where aesthetic disparity exists, which includes but is not limited to consid- eration of skirt height and shape and consistency of bark trimming, shall be reviewed at the discretion of the Architectural Advisory Committee. g. Damaged Trees - Trees that are damaged, by way of storm or other causes, shall be trimmed by city staff without Architectural Advisory Committee review, but only to the point necessary to remove damaged bark or fronds. I HATED BY: l I hPPROYE00Y. � � � - � ` I CITY COUNCIL MO 3116, 7-28-82 CI OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA ory mlvN SECTION 9UdJED PROCEDURES AND POLICIES 5 1 REFERENCE j VFFECTIVE DATE SUBJECT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT rAGE �7 28 82 TRIMMING OF PALM TREES WITHIN THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS 3 of 3 5.3 Hazards created by palm trees shall be determined and confirmed by the Architectural Advisory Committee, The Architectural Advisory Committee may review and recommend alternative methods for dealing with hazardous trees, e.g. removal and relocation, 5.4 Any interested person may request the Architectural Advisory Committee to review a case for trimming palm trees in excess of twelve (12) feet. 6.0 EXCEPTIONS 6. 1 None. I rureo BY ( m. ROVED By �_ \ 4 APPROVED COUNCIL, MO 3116, 7-28-82 Council Minutes If-6.96. Page 4 I. ' 'MEMORANDA OF UNDERSTANDING -EMPLOYEE UNITS(Continued) Counellmember Spurgln slated that she could never understand why file Council could not sit across the fable and be able to talk like people,and not employee to Council,that the PSPOA made the suggestion to do so,and there was success In it;that file five years have been difficult limes for both the Council and the employees, and there may still be difficult time ahead, She added that in no way should the tcrm "median' or'average' be construed to suggest that Elie Council considers the employees in Nose terns. Mayor stated that flit amount of work has not been reduced over the past five years,and employees have gone without raises, and made sacrifices so the City could rebound and grow strong again, and did so will,very little complaining;Ilia(the Council had ilia jab to balance between what was fair and what was affordable;that file proposed adjustments deal with both issues; and that the parties remained polite, and professional. Minute Order 5832 as revised by ilia City Manager, was presented; aRcr which, if was moved hy_Spurgin, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, that MOSS32 be adopted. 2. PALM TRUE TRIMMING POLICY Reaommendallori: That the Council direct the Planning Commission to review and make recommendations to the Council concerning existing palm free trimming policy. City Manager reported that during recent winds,a number of palm fronds fell,and were (136- ciconed up A a cost of$1,300. 032) Director of Public Works recommended that the Planning Commission be insiniced to re-aaamine the City's policy concerning palm tree trimming. Couneilmember Spurgin stated that she likes the skins on the frees, but now favors Irimniing them to look cleaner, and reduce the liability from falling fronds. Councllmember Odcn agreed, in particular concerning downtown. And to provide information as to the cost for doing sec by area. Director of Public Works stated Ihnt.lhe most recent cost estimate of$130 per fine, did not Include skinoing the free, only removal and disposal or file trimmings. Cauncilmember Hodges stated that the price is high because of the required lmurnnce; that she wanted to get rid of ilia skirts downtown; and that ilnce it appeared a majority of the Council favored the idea, she questioned why die Council could not simply change ilia policy. City Manager stated That the subject lends to generate a substantial amount of seatlment on both aides; and that if it had been known that the Council might take an action other than that recommended, [here may have been people who would have wished to speak on the matter. , Mayor stated that file direction to (he Commission could indicate that three members strongly favor removing skirts dowmtown;And that he would like input from Main Street, as well as business owners downtown. Minute Order 5833 as recommended,was presented;after which,it was moved by Odell. seconded by Hedges, and unanimously carried, chat M05833 be adopted; and that the Commission be advised ilia[the direction comes with die strong recommendation to trim aklrts downtown. Goo 01a WEEKLY PROGREL _ REPORT The DOw010W11 Development Center Is very pleased to announce Ili,I �r -Jonelle's Feminine Atlim"has signed a Icase at LaPlaza.Their original store Is located in Lido Village In Newport Leach.Thom la now o Fit y one remailvng ground floor vacancy at Lapiaza. r}'jj a: i The signals are very positive that'AvAlon Carriage Company"L5 coming to downiown Palm springs to operate a high quailly carriage ride service. Christine Davis Is the ownerA penlor and has prcvlowly operated thorned carry A. Gghum ' carriage rides In Scollsdale,Az and sin Diego under the name of'Cinderella Igo West•Amado Road gales".I ter husband and co-ownerhas alreadyapproached the Chamber Palm springs, CA 92262 of Commerce about membership.This company Is a polcntlal tenant for the carriage storage and lack space it the City-owned Vlllage Green whlch was Telephone: 010.326.8079 vamled by the previous carriage ride operator. f acslrrrlle: 01 g•325.8 271 Pascal Burke of Deep Ocean Systems,Inc.is returning to palm Springs on t 2/13/96 to Continue discAsslmis wish the DrnVmlawrl Development Center In regard to their proposed Palm springs Aquarium.Their proposed location Is • on the CrsA•owned parcel north of the Lobster company(Former GTE Eullcflngl•Tllls has promise as another major norrretail attraction/anchor In ' dowNownl Terry Weiner of Loods Jewelry has given the Development C powntomh ranter a great lead/-hot Ilp"on a buslne.Tjwlshing to locate In downtown Palm< . . ' Sixings.The polemtiai tcrxvrt Is the Mph Laurel Polo shop on d Iaseo,JAG is foAotiwhg up with Tyler Ryder on this lead �T (-': bc1n9 a an In-depth dlecus910n at Its rcgWar meeting on 12/5/80, the - , Slreet Board of Directors voted unanimous Support for keeping the ing PaLnTaco Trhnming Pollry fnlaet In Downtown.Thclr cnnscneus ion was to send a strong message to City council in support of the ent treatment of the washinglonla Fillfems(Pan Palms).Health and ty related Issues were discussed at length. The uniqueness and age^quality of downtown Is greatly enhanced by the current look of e palms, and Maln5hcct board members want to be on record os arongiy opposed to any change In the trh=W policy. JAO Is work4hg wllh John wale of UNOCAL In regard to the Gly's possible i • . acquisition of Amado Park as a permanent dowmlown park site.UNOCAUS recently completed appraisal esllrrlales the value of[his parcel at $385,000. Eadiam Poster 14endcrson is Interested In participating in the aottutsirlon of this i, property as a permanent city park to be dedicated to the memory of sin t-ostcr.UNOCAL is wllling to consider crealive,alternatives such as accepling i '� '•f a trade for property of equivalent value,either from Barbara and/or the CRA. They would also consider a lease or pudhaSeoVer-llrne approach. • MalnStrect-Pulmsprings uptown Palm Springs' JAO Is working with GN David.a local musician.In the proposed development o! t�-.l.I•Pe Events,Partnership ;�., of a high yuaAty concert venue to he located In the second Boor of plaza do L,d }, ��• vulageFoat- ., �;; las ilores.'MIS Is to be a 9louse of tslucs•typo of allraeilon,and has file PALM SPRINGS NO'1 O''S,'_, vtppori ofJetn Wcssrn-rt. Planning Commission Minutes of February 26, 1997 Page 9 (Draft- not approved by Commission) �r MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS: IEW EXISTING PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY - and make recommendations to the City Council an any update or modifications. Director stated that the Tribal Planning Commission has looked at our policy and recommend that the palm trees be maintained in as close to a natural state as possible;they have been very careful on the Spa Hotel site to use Washingtonia filifera palms; Resolution draft covers the overview of the findings; Commissioner Fontana suggested that the Resolution refer to a distinction being drawn between the Washingtonia filifera and the Washingtonia robusta. Director stated the policy as outlined would have a distinction between the two, with the filifera palms being trimmed for safety (or possibly other reasons) after reaching 12 feet, and the robusta would be trimmed so the palm fronds would be roughly 6 feet from the green palm fronds (to be included In the Resolution); City currently removes seed pods and straggling branches " Commissioner Raya stated that when this goes to City Council (especially since It Is televised) It would be helpful to have photographs of the filifera and robusta palms and utilize Channel 17,which Is City operated, to educate the community on what we are doing. Commissioner Marantz stated that it would be helpful to have Jim Cornett,Curator of Natural History of the Palm Springs Desert Museum, make a presentation to the City Council. in response to Commissioner Foster's concern about the dead palm trees on East Palm Canyon Drive, Director stated that Southern California Edison Co. put the City on constructive notice,which allows the City the opportunity to move/trim the palm trees that are interfering with their lines; Edison has then had to trim the trees;may not he able to request that Edison replace them. The undergrounding of utilities an East Palm Canyon Drive is under construction, and when that project Is completed, the City could replace the palm trees. Chairman Mills stated that preservation of the skirts of the filifera palm trees is a major Issue In the downtown area, as it would change the character substantially If they were altered. In response to Commissioner Marantz' concerns about liability, Director stated that legally the City is not liable; ff robusta palms are trimmed reasonably well, 00HE12 f Planning Commission Minutes of February 26, 1997 Page 10 (Draft- not approved by Commission) REVIEW EXISTING PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY-Cont'd that will reduce the falling palm fronds dramatically; the rlsk manager for the City states that we are immune from liability. Commissioner Fontana agreed to represent the Planning Commission (with Commissioner Raya as back-up) at the City Council's hearing. In response to Commissioner Raya's question regarding designating the palm tree as the official tree, [Director stated this had been discussed at MainStreet. MIS1C (Raya/Maranta; 7-0). Recommending revisions to the Palm Tree Trimming Policy, per Staff report and Resolution. RESOLUTION NO. •�J i OR THE CITY COUNCIL OP THE CITY OP PALM SPRINGS APPROVING MODIFICATIONS TO THE PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY w w x w w w J�V� E � WHEREAS, the City Council adopted a Palm Tree Trimming Policy on July 28, 1982 and the City Council directed the Planning Commission to review said policy on November 6, 1996; and WHRREAS, the existing policy affects all palm trees located within public rights-of-way, parks and landscape easements; and WHEREAS, it is the City's policy to maintain palm trees so that the dried palm fronds (skirts) are Lull and trimmed until the skirts are twelve feet (12') above ground; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered this policy at a regularly scheduled meeting; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission and City Council directed staff Co consult with MainStreet and fully review the options available before recommending modifications to the City's Palm Tree Trimming Policy; WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has conducted an extensive evaluation of the City's palm trees, parkways and medians and has consulted with Community groups, including. MainStreet, Tribal Planning Commission and Design Review; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commissioa and Community groups consulted have strongly supported maintaining a strong natural appearance Of City palm trees; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has determined that Washingtonia filifera palm trees are native to Palm Springs, and the full skirts are an important design feature, giving a massive, full appearance, and that Washingtonia filifera palm trees rarely, if ever, drop all or a large portion of their skirts; and WHEREAS, the Washingtonia robusta palm trees are not native to Palm Springs, and that the skirts are an important design feature, and the Washingtonia robusta palm trees are known to drop all or large portions of their skirts; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has determined that the City's use of palm trees as the City's primary street tree has created an urban design statement which expresses the essence of Palm Springs to residents and visitors; and WHEREAS, MainStreet, Design Review Group (formerly Architectural Advisory Committee) the Tribal Planning Commission and the City's Planning Commission have recommended that the City maintain full skirts to the extent possible; and WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in Connection with the meeting on this policy issue, including but not limited to, the staff report and all written and oral testimony presented. WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has reviewed all of the information contained in the staff report and presentation and has held several workshops; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that based upon the foregoing, the City Council hereby approves amendments to the City Palm Tree Trimming Policy and as outlined in the attached Exhibit °A11; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council recommends: 1) that the Planning Commission work with MainStreet to develop a signing/plaque program to explain the history of Washingtonia filifera palm trees and their importance to the history and culture of Palm Springs; 2)direot's the Parks and Recreation Division to develop a Capital Improvement Program budget for replacing dead and damaged palm trees located on East Palm Canyon Drive; and 3) directs staff to prepare necessary documentation to declare the Washingtonia filifera palm tree as the "City's Official Txee.° Attachment: Exhibit "A^ ADOPTED this day of 1997. AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ATTEST: ' y CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA BY City Clerk City Manager REVIEWED & APPROVED EXHIBIT "A• 0,0 UFARTMEM AFFIR P 0.1 Eanmwnify-Hevelopmenf Planning and Building 0.2 Eemmunify 8er iees Parks &Recreation or Public Works 0.3 Planning Commission 0.4 Awhiteetere} Advisery eemmiuee Parks and Recreation Commission 0,5 General Public 1.0 EMPOSR 1.1 It Is the purpose of this policy to establish the criteria for palm tree trimming within the City of Palm Springs. This policy shall apply to palm trees located within the following areas: a. public right-of-way. b. , Parks. C. Landscape easements. ��I 0,007900q 1.2 This policy will assign the authority to review palm trees and/or determine the need for trimming trees. 2.0 I3A K ,1t6 }ND 2.1 The Washinglonia fllfem palm tree (Desert Fan Palm) is native to the city and grows naturally within the canyons within the city and surrounding arras. Its palm fronds adhere to its trunk for the life of the tree. 2.2 The Washingtonia Robusta palm tree (Mexican Fan Palm)is not native to Palm Springs. This palm tree is known to shed its dried palm fronds (skirts) during windy periods. 2.3 The City of Palm Springs desires its palm trees to have a consistent aesthetically-appealing appearance. This general appearance of palm trees is enhanced by the natural "skirt' which is formed by the dried fronds of the palm tree. 1n Hre past there has beeo- '� airy absutrt QV of z rant Sprigs' pa}ivies-ead-preeedutee-peAeia}ng •^-,,,�^ a;,�,singef-peat-tree-fraads ("-sltirta This policy is designed to clarify the procedures for palm tree trimming and establish a consistent policy as to exceptions and how they will be dealt with. 3.0 PO .i .Y 11 All palm trees located within the areas defined in Section 1.1 of this policy shall be trimmed by tbe)Qlj ffiWA arksjnl IJivision as follows: • Washingtonia ftlfera palms(desert fan palms) as often as deemed necessary until such time as the lower edge of the fronds "Skirts" are twelve(12) feet from the ground. usCeb""s ��.��v�,'�St'e�x"�T...�1„n'Ilk.��lti�5, 6 r 11 3.2 No exception shall be made to this policy without approval of the Planning Commission upon recommendation of the Parks and Recreation Commission and Design Review Group, according to procedures hereinafter provided. 3.3 Seed pod trimming and removal of loose ar a,Z palm fronds is not a part of this procedure and policy statement and will be trimmed at the discretion of City staff. 4.0 bL'''I7ND= 4.1 Hazard -An identifiable potential for injury to any person or damage to public, real, or personal property. 5.0 PROCFDT 5.1 The Planning Commission will review at its regularly scheduled meetings, all rquests for palm tree trimming which are exceptions, as stated in section 3.1. 5.2 The Planning Commion shall base its recommendations supporting palm tree trimming on the Section 3.1 rule, utilizing(but not limited to) the following guidelines; a. Street I.i¢htint -Palm trees adversely affecting the lighting of any public street and/or intersection. b. Power 7 ire.-Palm trees determined to be potentially hazardous. C. Traffic Signals &Waminz SiaBs -Palm trees determined to be obstructing vision. d. Bus Stops-Palm trees which may ob struct the passage of buses on public streets. C. P=jmily to Structure -Palm trees close to or adjacent to buildings or other structures which may constitute a hazard. E. Acthctic Consideration-Palm trees in groups of various sins and shapes where aesthetic disparity exists, which includes but is not limited to consideration of skirt height and shape and consistency of bark trimming, shall be reviewed at the discretion of the Architectural Advisory Committee. g. Damaged Trxs -Trees that are damaged, by way of storm or other causes, shall be trimmed by City staff without Planning Commission review, but only to the point necessary to remove damaged bark or fronds. 5.3 Hazards created by palm trees shall be determined and confirmed by the Planning Commission C¢ at}rtj wT u§ ,1gd. The Planning Commission may review and recommend alternative methods for dealing with hazardous trees, e.g. removal and relocation. 5.4 Any interested person may request the Planning Commission to review a case for trimming palm trees in excess of twelve (12) feet. 6.0 F'7CCF_P'17ONS 6.1 Nena: t1a�ws, „t ,, �?po i(. ao' �'� 1„ -rW,,�A cOEA n MEMORANDUM-FAX �C4HtIll�A�$° TO: Doug Evans, Director of Planning and Bullding, City of Palm Springs cnCHMD"TE" 619322-8360 nmjHInDlaMcemon DR. FROM: Thomas J. Davis,Tribal Planning Director,ACBCI DATE: February 23, 1997 rAIM SrRInGs. PAGES: 1 C1uPORma RE: PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA OF FEBRUARY 26, 1997 9R9bR The Indian Planning Commission, at its meeting of February 17, 1997, rcicmoK discussed the City's palm free trimming policy and requested I convey their (61WV5567] position that the predominant palms (Washingtonta species) In the City be maintained in as natural a state as possible. Fax Please contact me if you have any questions or require any additional (619)545fl547 information. cc: Tribal Council Planning Commission Meeting Minutes February 23, 2000 TRIBAL COMMENTS: None at . * » PUBLIC COMYIINTS: None MISCELLANEOUS: Palm Tree Trimming Policy Director reviewed the current Palm Tree Trimming Policy and the February 27, 1997 report at the request of City Council. The policy allows full skirts to develop on the Desert Fan Palms to within 12 feet of the ground at which point they are kept brimmed to that height(with an exclusion for the trees in the FAA.-controlled airport areas). Regulaz annual maintenance also includes removal of seed pods and case-by-case attention to problem trees(e.g., irregular frond growth or shedding or other safety concerns). He also stated that after extensive research (including input from the Curator of the Desert Museum)rodents are not known to regularly nest in the skirts. 1n addition, the Multi Species Ilabitat Management's preliminary standpoint is that soon-to-bc endangered species of bat may rely on the skirts for shelter and encourage the City to leave the skirts intact. fie also reported that MainStreet members appreciate the urban design statement of the full skins. He suggested that a modification to the currentpolicy be considered for the Mexican Fan Palms to be trimmed to within six to eight feet of the green fronds. Director reported that,in recent years,the City has spent approximately$49,000 per year for routine maintenance. The approximate cost to the City for removing all the skirts(but not"skinning" the trunks)on the estimated 3,100 trees would be$403,000(at the current price of S130 per tree). He stated that the regular yearly maintenance costs would not be reduced significantly even if all skirts were removed due to the constant-regrowth. 'He stated that the Parks Department voted last week to recommend maintaining the existing policy. Commission discussion included the idea that all mid-block trees have the skirts removed to t increase The impact of the comer trees and contribute to a cleaner look for downtown. Further discussion, though, underscored the importance of the ambiance that the skirted trees afford downtown and that the Desert Fan Palms are a landmark as they stand now. The Commission favored the current policy of having seed pods removed and skirts trimmed to a safe distance from Page 2 of l I Planning Commission Meeting Minutes February 23, 2000 the ground. It was felt that the yearly maintenance of the trees is a part of the cost of"being Palm Springs." Director responded that he will take the Planning Commissioners' views to the City Council with an additional recommendation that the Mexican Matt Palms' skirts be trimmed to within six feet of the lowest green fronds. M/S/C(Klatchko/Caf£ery)7-0. To approve continued suppo rt for February 26,1997 motion: "Recommending revisions to the Palm Tree Trimming Policy, per Staff Report and Resolution." PUBLIC HEARINGS: Tentative Parcel Map 29450 - Application by Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse Western Real Estate Division fora proposed two-lot Tentative Parcel Map for the subdivision of approximately 38 acres to initiate the phase one development of a 176,519 square-foot Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse on 13.33 acres of the project site,located on the south side of Ramon Road,between Gene Autry Trail and San Luis Rey Drive,M-1 Zone,Section 26. Associated with this request are: Planning Commission Determination 10.425 - Application by Lowe's home Improvement Warehouse Western Real ,Estate Division for a determination to add home improvement centers as a permitted use within the M-1 (service/manufacturing) Zone; and Case 3.1795 (Architectural Approval) - Application by Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse Western Real Estate Division for a proposed' 176,519 square-foot home improvement center on 13.33 acres of land located on the south side of Ramon Road,between Gene Autry Trail and San Luis Rey Drive,M-1 Zone, Section 26. Commissioner Fontana reported that he would abstain from discussion of this project due to current business interests and was excused for the remainder of the meeting. t Principal Planner reviewed the proposals to the Planning Commission. He stated that the first thing staff did with the project was to cheek the relationship of the project with the General Plan. Staff considered the design interest for major thoroughfares(which includes keeping an open feeling). He reported that M-1 Zoning allows for all components of the store to operate individually so that Page 3 of II BOOM STUDY SESSION CITY OF PALM SPRINGS March 8,2000 3. RUTH HARDY RESTROOMS Police Chief stated enforcement has been stepped to in increase police presence in park; chat Citizens on Patrol and Reserve Officers are patrolling the area closely; that a number of sting operations have been implemented; that the web site advertising the restrooms as a sex site has been visited by a police presence; that there are proposals fxom the Parks & Recreation staff to try to alleviate part of the concern. Diicctor of Parks &Recreation reviewed a proposal for portable toilets; and added drat bollards and chains could be installed in a portion of the parking lot to prohibit cars from parking too close to the restrooms. Oden: Stated bollards and chains should be used; that the focus of vice should not be targeted in one area; that the rest of the City likewise needs attention; that balance is needed in tine Community; that young people do use the parks and not always wisely. Police Chief stated that the sex violators are not of a young age, but are older males. Reller-Spurgin stated the doors should be locked at sundown; and when people are caught, the names listed in the newspaper; that the parks are where children go to play; that it should be safe; that with this type of activity going on, it is unacceptable for the Community and action should be taken immediately. Councilmember Jones reviewed handout furnished by Bud Sinclair, copy attached. Consensus to increase police presence, install bollards and chains. 4. PROGRESS REPORT ON CITY MANAGER SF- ECTION PROCESS Power Point presentation of selection process, copy attached. 1 5. PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY y Planning Director reviewed handouts concerning past policy of policy. LlCouocilmember Jones stated that the policy should remain as stated. Mayor Kleindieust requested an estimate for trimming the trees on E.P_C. between Farrell and Sunrise be submitted to the Council. C'ohsensus,of•Couacil'to,.obtain,cost esdmake Tnl•$PC.betWeen Farrell&Sunrise and keep c!yreut policy m Iilacc:` " ADJOURN 000021(DEk S77A- O Y s ass. pF4M sA City of Palm Springs Planning & Building Department U a as c..M,A.• a� c'4 41.0?.. ra 11V11ERIDJ11 o LIV©UK Date: February 19, 1997 To: Planning Commission From: Douglas R. Evans, Director of Planning & Building Subject: Palm Tree Trimming Policy - City Council Recommendation Recommendation: That the Planning Commission review the existing Palm Tree Trimming Policy, information contained in this report, and recommendations from Design Review and Mainstreet. A draft resolution will be presented at the meeting. Background: The City Council, at its November 6, 1998 meeting, directed the Planning Commission to review the existing Palm Tree Trimming Policy and make recommendations. In making the motion, the City Council indicated that the direction comes with a strong recommendation to trim palm tree skirts downtown_ Issues raised during the City Council discussion included the cost of clean-up, aesthetics, City liability and costs to trim. A copy of the City Council Minutes is attached to this report. Existing Policy: The existing policy was adopted in 1982. In summary, the purpose of the policy is to establish a policy for palm trees within public rights-of-way, parks and landscape easements. The policy states that all palm trees shall be trimmed as often as necessary until such time that the lower edge of the fronds (skirts) are twelve feet (12') from the ground. No exceptions are allowed without Planning Commission approval and Design Review input. Seed pod trimming is not prohibited. Included in the policy is a provision that allows supplemental trimming based upon safety and aesthetic considerations. A copy of the existing Palm Tree Trimming Policy is attached. l��` "S _. . 00Q0? 2 Memo re Palm Tree Trimming Policy February 19, 1997 Page 2 Subsequent to its adoption in 1982, the policy has been evaluated several times, but not changed. In 1994 the City Council evaluated this issue during its consideration of a palm tree trimming contract. In doing so, the Planning Commission, by a 5 - 2 vote, recommended that the policy not be modified. At this time, the City Council approved a contract amendment to increase the seed pod removaVfrond clean-up to add additional palm trees to the City contract, but did not amend the policy. Palm Tree Characteristics: Washingtonia filifera palms (Desert fan palms) are the City's native palm tree. These palm trees are native to the Coachella Valley and are widely used as ornamental trees. They have a wide trunk, grow to approximately 20 to 40 feet, and do not drop the dried palm fronds like other palms. These are the primary street palms in the downtown portions of North and South Palm Canyon Drive. Washingtonia robusta palms (Mexican fan palms) are not native to this area and are also widely used. These palm trees have a narrow trunk, grow to approximately 80 to 100 feet, and drop the dried palm fronds. These trees are primarily located on Tahquitz Canyon Way, South Palm Canyon Drive and East Palm Drive. A mixture of palm trees is located at other City parks and parkways. Jim Cornett, Natural Science Curator at the Palm Springs Desert Museum who has published numerous articles on Washingtonia filifera, wrote a recent article which was published in the Desert Sun. A copy is attached. Health and Safety Issues: Many individuals have associated palm tree skirts with rats. Staff has contacted several City staff members who have experience with palm tree trimming, and rats have not been found to be a problem. According to Mr. Cornett, he has not seen any evidence that rats nest in palm trees. They are, however, known to climb palm trees to forage for food (palm tree fruit). If seed pods are removed, the primary food source is eliminated. Staff contacted the Riverside County Health Department and the Mosquito Abatement District (responsible for rodent control) and received a handout that is distributed to the public. This document recommends trimming palm fronds to reduce cover and food sources. Staff requested an update from Risk Management regarding the City risk associated with falling palm fronds. The City does not have any claims pending, nor is it liable for any problems caused by falling palm fronds. As long as the City maintains palm trees in Goa922 Memo re Palm Tree Trimming Policy February 19, 1997 Page 3 accordance with an adopted policy, there is no liability. Falling palm fronds is an "act of nature," which is usually caused by wind. Community Input: MainStreet reviewed the City's policy at its December 5, 1996 meeting. The meeting was attended by Board members, Mr. Cornett and City staff. After discussing the issues, the Board of Directors voted unanimously to support the current policy in the downtown. An update from MainStreet is attached. City Design Review advisors (formerly Architectural Advisory Committee) reviewed the policy and suggested that Washingtonia filifera palm tees be maintained under the current policy, and that the Washingtonia robusta palm trees have the brown skirts removed to within 5 to 8 feet of the green fronds. This would eliminate the older dry fronds, and still maintain the full look of the palm tree. This would clean up the existing Washingtonia robusta palms which have lost portions of the skirt, reduce the amount of clean-up during Windy periods, and maintain the strong urban design along the Tahquitz Canyon Way corridor and other areas. The Design Review members strongly objected to the trimming of the City's native palm trees, and felt that the visual impact within the downtown would be dramatic and negative. Removal of the massive palm trees would expose many of the weaker design features in the downtown. Design Review members include architects and landscape architects. Design Options - There are a number of design options available which could be considered in evaluating the City's palm Tree Trimming Ordinance. Palm tree trimming options address the palm fronds (skirts), trunks and removal of fruit. Currently the City removes loose and damaged fronds and the fruit on an annual basis_ No changes are recommended to this policy. The current City policy is to allow the palm tree skirts to remain full. The purpose of this policy is to have natural appearing palm trees. From a landscape design viewpoint, this increases the mass and strength of the palm trees as a design statement. This is especially true for Washingtonia filifera palms. Additionally, the full palm trees in the downtown screen a lot of the less attractive aspects of the downtown design. Options range from the current policy to eliminating the skirt entirely. After additional research, staff is recommending that the policy for Washingtonia filiferas not be changed and that the Washingtonia robustas have skirts maintained at approximately 6 feet from the lower green palm fronds. Skinning the palm tree involves removing the base of the palm frond from the trunk. This procedure results in a clean, relatively smooth trunk. Currently there is no policy regarding this practice, However, as the City replaces or adds new palm trees there has been an effort made to match the existing palms near the new trees. In the downtown, Memo re Palm Tree Trimming Policy February 19, 1997 Page 4 Washingtonia filifera palms are skinned to a height of approximately 12 feet. Trees which were skinned prior to planting have not typically been skinned as the tree increases in height. When Washingtonia robusta palms drop their skirts, the exposed trunks normally look as it if they had been skinned. Budget Considerations: The City contract for palm tree trimming covers approximately 2500 trees. The estimated cost to remove skirts would be $325,000, at an average of $130 per tree. On-going maintenance if the skirts are removed would increase by approximately$15,000 to$49,000 annual maintenance cost (current contract is $34,267.60). Considered separately, the cost to remove skirts on Palm Canyon Drive (City entry sign to sunrise Way) would be $143,000 and an annual maintenance cost of $8,250„ Approximately 1100 trees would be affected. Removal of skirts on Tahquitz Canyon Drive median would cost approximately $13,000. Approximately 100 trees are located in this median. Annual maintenance cost would increase by $750. The remaining palm trees are located within City properties such as parks, City Hall, Police Center, Wastewater Treatment Plant, Airport and the Convention Center. Cost to trim approximately 1300 trees would be $169,000. Staff has prepared a revised policy which reflects the recommendations from Design Review and updates references to City departments and advisory groups. The Parks and Recreation Division staff has contacted Landscape West regarding the additional costs associated with implementing the recommended policy. The cost to trim existing Washingtonia robusta palm trees would be approximately $50 per tree. Currently the City does not have an inventory that addresses the number and type of palm trees; therefore, an estimate of the total cost cannot be made. Any amendments to the Palm Tree Trimming Policy which increase cost will require a budget amendment if desired this year, or added to the 1997-98 budget. Currently there are no funds allocated for increased palm tree maintenance. Attachments: City Council Minutes, November 6, 1996 Article in Desert Sun by Jim Cornett Mosquito Abatement's"What you can do to Prevent and Control Rats" MainStreet Weekly Progress Report, dated December 6, 1996. Palm Tree Trimming Policy (existing) Revised Policy - Legislative Draft �� C�025,