CITY OF COACHELLA REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL, THE COUNCIL SITTING AS THE COACHELLA SANITARY DISTRICT, COACHELLA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, COACHELLA FINANCING AUTHORITY, COACHELLA EDUCATIONAL AND GOVERNMENTAL ACCESS CABLE CHANNEL CORPORATION AND COACHELLA WATER AUTHORITY
FEBRUARY 13, 2008 6:00 P.M.
MINUTES
1. CALL TO ORDER
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Coachella was called to order at 6:38 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Coachella City Hall; Mayor Eduardo Garcia presiding.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was performed earlier during the Redevelopment Agency meeting.
3. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers, Richard Macknicki, Jesse Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Steven Hernandez, Mayor Eduardo Garcia
Absent: Councilmember Gilbert Ramirez
Staff Present: City Manager Tim Brown Assistant City Manager Linda Garza Assistant City Manager Steve Brown City Attorney Carlos Campos Battalion Chief Jeff Johnson Senior Building Inspector Lizzandro Diaz Community Development Director Carmen Manriquez Economic Development Manager Lorie Williams City Engineer Tony Lucero Finance Director John Gerardi Parks and Recreation Director Ana Colls Associate Planner Gabriel Perez Police Chief Rodney Vigue Assistant Police Chief Marck Barfknecht Public Works Director Paul Toor City Clerk Isabel Castillon Deputy City Clerk Caroline Hernandez
COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 2 of 23
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
City Manager Tim Brown requested that item 11(F) be pulled from the agenda.
Motion: To approve the agenda as amended Made by: Councilmember Macknicki Second by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Approved: 4-0 by unanimous voice vote
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Regular Meeting of January 23, 2008 of the City Council, Coachella Fire Protection District, Coachella Sanitary District, Coachella Financing Authority, Coachella Educational and Governmental Access Cable Channel Corporation and Coachella Water Authority.
B. Special Meeting of January 30, 2008 of the City Council of the City of Coachella.
Motion: To approve the minutes as presented Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Villarreal Approved: 4-0 by unanimous voice vote
6. PROCLAMATIONS
There were no proclamations
7. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
There were no written communications.
8. PUBLIC COMMENTS
A. Jennifer Salinas, President, Keystone Club. Subject: Community Service
Ms. Salinas asked the new leaders of the Boys & Girls Club Keystone Club to introduce themselves; they are: Ryan Cortez Sergeant at Arms, Rayleene Amador, Secretary, and Frank Morales, Vice President.
Ms. Salinas stated that she was last here to speak about the conference in November in which she was part of the steering committee. She reported that it was really fun and she had a lot of good experiences being part of the leadership. She also noted that their next conference will be held March 27th – 29th in Anaheim. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 3 of 23
Ms. Salinas was also here tonight to let the Council know that the members were interested in doing community service within the city. She said the members wanted to get more involved with the city by doing things like city cleanups or highway cleanups; but they weren’t sure who they need to contact to get started.
Mayor Garcia directed Ms. Salinas to Ana Colls or Steve Brown commenting that they are probably the two people who might be able to put something together for them.
B. Lee Espinoza, 49-429 Camino Maya, Director, Coachella Subject: Boxing Club Valley Boxing Club & Fitness Center. Activities
Lee wanted to make a few announcements related to the boxing club’s activities. He spoke about Abraham Zamora. A 12 year old fighter who just returned from a trip to Kansas City where he won the championship and was named Outstanding Fighter out of more than 500 kids from all over the United States. Lee was really proud of Abraham.
Lee stated that currently the club serves about 120 kids and that many of them have won tournaments.
Lee also introduced Randy Caballero. Randy was number three in the world last year. He just returned Saturday from a fight in Las Vegas where he was still sixteen years old. Now Randy is 17 and must fight in the men’s division. He will soon be going to Colorado.
Lee thanked the Council members and city staff for helping him to get the kids off the streets. He mentioned that he wanted to do a presentation to let the people know what the boxing club is doing. He said that it’s not just boxing; there are many different stages that the kids go through at the club.
Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez asked if the Club is still accepting donations, and Lee said “yes.”
C. Bea Gonzalez, Riverside County Latino Commission on Subject: Drug & Alcohol Drug & Alcohol Abuse Services, Counseling Center, Abuse Services Located at the Martin Ortiz Center, 1612 First Street, Coachella, CA.
Ms. Gonzalez stated that she was present tonight on behalf of the Commission and to take this opportunity to thank the city for its contribution last year of $20,000 for this very valuable service to the community. She also thanked the city for its support and that of the Coachella Valley Unified School District as well.
Ms. Gonzalez noted that the contribution allowed the Center to serve over 100 children and their families.
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D. Manuel Perez, Candidate for State Assembly, 84-668 Subject: City Parks Sunrise Avenue, Coachella.
Mr. Perez stated that he (and his youngest son Alejandro) were here to commend the Mayor, the City Council, and City staff for doing the good work that they promised to do a couple of years ago on the parks.
Mr. Perez also thanked Ana Colls and Steve Brown for being diligent and for opening up the dialogue to the community because it’s very important [to have their input].
Mr. Perez mentioned that he is a parent and resident of Coachella, as well as a board member for the Coachella Valley Unified School District. He spoke about the city’s purchase of park space for other future parks and offered his support to the city in these endeavors.
One last point Mr. Perez wished to make is that the city will need to make sure to provide for adequate maintenance of the parks. He feels there will be a need to educate the residents about the importance of being proud of their community and taking care of their parks.
E. Rudy Gutierrez, 83-966 Fiesta Road, Coachella. Subject:
Mr. Gutierrez spoke about the city’s youth baseball-softball league and noted that the leagues are currently taking registrations for 2008. He also noted that there are about 40,000 residents in Coachella and one percent of them are kids that play softball- baseball. He explained that 80-90 kids are turned away every year because they lack support. He challenged the Council members to provide that support and to give these kids the opportunity to get out there and off of the streets.
The cost of registration is $65 per player. Mr. Gutierrez said he was challenging himself to sponsor two kids at $65 per child, and placed the same challenge on the Council members and everyone else in the audience.
Mr. Gutierrez said that the league also needed help with becoming a non-profit. He asked for the city’s support to expedite or start the process.
Mr. Macknicki offered to match Mr. Gutierrez’s donation.
Mr. Gutierrez said he wanted to get the non-profit issued resolved first.
Mayor Garcia commented that city staff is committed to working with the baseball league, as they have for the last several years, and to assisting them to get their non-profit status. He offered that the city will do everything in its reach to insure that there is some accountability there in terms of any type of funding that the city may consider making to that potential non-profit for seed money or whatever it may need. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 5 of 23
Finally, Mr. Gutierrez asked for much needed support with getting referees and coaches. He explained that those kids are getting turned away because they don’t have coaches. Umpires are needed as well; he asked if anyone had some time to donate to these kids to please come forward. Remembering that the members from the Boy’s and Girl’s Club were in search of community projects, Mr. Ramirez suggested training them to be umpires.
13. CLOSED SESSION
At this time City Attorney Campos asked the City Council to convene into closed session at 6:58 p.m. to discuss the following items:
A. Conference with Legal Council – Anticipated Litigation – Significant Exposure to Litigation Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (b)(1): One Potential Case.
B. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation – Initiation of Litigation Pursuant to Government Code, Section 54946.9 (c): One (1) Potential Case.
14. CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENTS
The City Council reconvened into open session at 7:55 p.m. and Mr. Campos stated that no reportable actions were taken during closed session.
9. REPORTS AND REQUESTS
A. Council Comments/Report of Miscellaneous Committees.
Mr. Villarreal reminded everyone that the Date Festival will begin soon. Friday is the grand opening at 9:30 a.m. at Gate 1.
He commented that the city is looking really beautiful, and Harrison Street in particular, with the new signs, lighting, and palm trees, is looking very sharp
Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez spoke about a presentation he attended that was presented by the Health Assessment Resource Center (HARC), a non-profit group. He explained that HARC put some scientific data together (as opposed to anecdotal data) to help non-profits, governmental agencies, [etc.] with respect to health care or health issues in the community. The data can be used for grants. Mr. Hernandez felt that this could be useful in identifying what the [new] hospital is going to cover and what its uses will be. He noted that information on HARC is available through the Desert Sun newspaper [their website]. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 6 of 23
Mr. Hernandez stated that 2-3 weeks ago he, Mayor Garcia, and Councilman Villarreal went to Vista Santa Rosa, a community adjacent to Coachella in an unincorporated area of the county. The members went to share the City’s vision for Coachella and to express how the city proposes to work with the unincorporated area of Vista Santa Rosa, specifically as it relates to land uses as it relates to compatible uses with zoning and things of that sort, and the different commercial opportunities that the city is going to have that they need to be aware of.
Mr. Hernandez said that the group committed to having city staff start reviewing some of their planning documents. He commented that there isn’t anything wrong with Coachella having an area that’s “horsey” or that has a kind of equestrian lifestyle use. Mr. Hernandez recommended that the city should also start working with some of its adjacent neighbors as it pertains to compatible land uses as it relates to planning as it relates to transportation and commercial.
Mr. Hernandez spoke about the study session regarding sewer rates and noted the city will be having a public hearing in the future about the rates. He wanted the public to know that the city is studying the issue and will be looking at the possibility of phasing in some of the sewer rates, either through a one-time phase-in or in two phases throughout the year. He urged the public to come to the study sessions and public hearing when the sewer rates actually start to be increased.
Lastly Mr. Hernandez commented on a hit-and-run that occurred last week in Coachella where a female was struck by a car and thrown about 20 feet into the median. The person [that hit her] did not stop, [he/she] left the scene. Subsequently, the woman died from the injuries of the hit. Mr. Hernandez asked the Chief of Police to provide more details and urged that anyone with any information contact the proper authorities.
Mayor Garcia noted that an e-mail was sent out yesterday afternoon that the individual was turned in/apprehended.
The Mayor agreed with Mr. Hernandez’s comments in regards to Vista Santa Rosa land use designations. He added that the group also clarified what the city’s service boundaries were to Vista Santa Rosa and its water and sewer; and the water boundaries through a Memorandum of Understanding with Coachella Valley Water District.
The Mayor commented about the California State Budget crisis and how it relates to Coachella. He said he would dispense the information that he was asked to relate to the Council and the community by the various committees he sits on through CVAG. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 7 of 23
CVAG Public Safety Committee - There is a proposal in the State budget to have an early release program of inmates that are in the State and county jails. Twenty-two thousand inmates could be released early. In Riverside County 5,000 are projected to be released early. Coachella does not have the resources to up its manpower but the city will be liable for insuring greater safety due to the early release program that will be taking place if this proposed budget moves forward.
Safe component of Riverside County - The District Attorney’s office or County Sheriff’s department are talking about Megan’s Law. There was a presentation made on how many individuals [sex offenders] are actually registered. Information on who the individuals are and where they live can be found on the internet. The Mayor said he had asked that they bring this presentation to the city so that the residents can be made aware of the actual number of people who are registered here in the city (the number wasn’t very large).
Transportation Committee - There is some good news from the CVAG Transportation Committee, Coachella has been put back on a list and will potentially be able to receive 15% of Measure A funds for the maintenance of Highway 111. The Mayor commented about the City not having received its fair share [of funds] to maintain the road whenever it was taken over from the State. He recounted that Coachella received one million dollars to maintain eight miles of roadway, while neighboring cities with half the distance received about four times the funding.
The Mayor related discussions about the Trails Advocates in the Coachella Valley who requested that a potential sub-committee be established through the CVAG organization to look at areas to make sure that there’s connectivity with the bike trails, with the mountain trails, and at an effort to use the whitewater canal as a potential trail. The City of Coachella, being one of the cities with the most undeveloped land, has a unique opportunity to do that. Mayor Garcia said that a task force was formed and that La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella will be part of those dialogues with the stakeholders while the city updates its general plan and takes a look at the vision of that area so that it can incorporate some of these unique features that can enhance the quality of life in the city.
Riverside County Transportation Committee – At the RCTC meeting this afternoon, the members were informed that because of budget cuts at the State level, the Coachella Valley will see about a $6 million decrease in potential transportation funding. The Mayor suggested that staff keep their eyes and ears open to see how it directly impacts the city.
RCTC - Applying for $222 million for the Transportation Goods Movement funds that may be available. Avenue 56 grade separation is a tier 1 project and the city may be eligible for about $10 million. The project as a whole could cost anywhere from $25 - $28 million. This is another grade separation project for which staff will need to search for potential funding.
COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 8 of 23
National Association of Latino Elected Officials – Held a higher education conference where they really emphasized on the State crisis, the State Budget, and the impacts on education as a whole and higher education in particular. The Mayor said there was some discussion that perhaps there may not be any summer programs for K-8 students. This is a great concern for the city therefore the Mayor suggested taking a look at creative ways to partner with the school district to make sure that these young people are active and productive [during the summer]; whether it be playing sports, with the city assisting and subsidizing some of those sign-ups, or insuring that there are other available programs through agencies such as Centro Esperanza, or the Boys’ and Girls’ Club.
College – Mayor Garcia was also concerned that UC systems and the Cal State systems will both see about $350 million in budget cuts, yet the tuition will increase for students who continue to go onto higher education. He suggested that the city can provide an opportunity for internships for both undergraduates and high school students, and perhaps create a foundation through private donations and city participation to create job opportunities, job experiences, and funding for books. He remarked that this was a unique opportunity for the city to help out regardless of the budget constraints that the school district, the State and the city may have – we just need to be creative.
Mayor Garcia commented that the former K-Mart building that was standing idle for about 20 years is looking good thanks to city staff.
The Mayor reported that the planning commission approved the architectural review for the Coachella Ranch Market and Shopping Center and one of the conditions was that they start [renovation work] in about three months. The city is looking forward to seeing the outcome of the renovation as it is in the gateway to the city.
Mayor Garcia announced that he will be establishing official office hours in an office at city hall. (A press release will go out next week.) The days and office hours have not yet been established, but they will be set to insure best access for the public and the community. The Mayor encouraged the other members of the council to schedule similar office hours so that they can meet with the public on any matters of concern.
th The Mayor invited everyone to his Mayor’s luncheon on February 28 .
B. City Manager’s Comments
Set Date for a Study Session to Discuss Goals, Objectives and Priorities. Recommend: Saturday, February 23, 2008
Mr. Tim Brown asked the Council to set a date for a study session to go over the goals and objectives for Saturday, February 23rd from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
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Mr. Brown reported that city still is kicking off their first of quarterly meeting with the School District. The meetings are to make sure that the two entities can share resources and move in the same direction as it relates to the kids during the summer and other recreational programs.
Mr. Brown announced that Coachella has a new Chief of Police, Mr. Rodney Vigue.
Chief Vigue stated that he was appointed last Monday by Sheriff Stan Sniff to serve at the Indio station. He went on to provide a brief summary on his background with the sheriff’s department.
10. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Voucher Listing – Fiscal Year 2007/08 Expenses – Payables Agency: All as of February 13, 2008 = $2,310,266.45 Recommendation: Approve Voucher Listing
B. Voucher Listing – Fiscal Year 2007/2008 Expenses-Payables Agency: All as of January 31, 2008 = $96,309.30 Recommendation: Approve Voucher Listing
C. Voucher Listing – Utility Billing Refunds – February 08, Agency: All 2008 = $4,240.00 Recommendation: Approve
D. Voucher Listing – Utility Billing Refunds – February 08, Agency: All 2008 = $831.28 Recommendation: Approve
E. Monthly Report of Investment for the Month of December Agency: All 2007.
F. Building Activity Report for the Month of January 2008. Agency: All
Recommendation: Approve Consent Calendar items 10(A) thru 10(F).
Motion: To approve the consent calendar items 10(A) thru 10(E) Councilmember Macknicki Second by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 10 of 23
11. NEW BUSINESS
A. Request by Councilmember Villarreal for Approval to Attend Agency: City Council the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Education Fund 25th Annual Conference in Washington, DC, June 25 - 28, 2008
Mr. Villarreal noted that this will be the silver anniversary (25th) of the Association. The group will speak on such issues as Housing, Education, and Health.
Motion: To approve item 11(A) Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Macknicki Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
B. Consideration for Award of Construction Contract for the Agency: City Council Bagdouma Park Renovation, Project No. 2008-02.
The Mayor noted that this item was discussed earlier during the redevelopment agency agenda.
Mr. Hernandez reiterated that this item pertains to Bagdouma Park and it was approved by the redevelopment agency. It is now time to approve it at the city council level.
Motion: To approve item 11(B) Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Macknicki Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
C. Approval to Award a Contract in the Amount of $1,919,919 Agency: City Council to Matich Corporation in Construction to Construct the Dillon Road Street Widening Improvements Project No. 2004-01. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 11 of 23
Mr. Lucero stated that the Dillon road widening project is between State Route 86 and I- 10 and it will widen Dillon Road from two lanes to four lanes (two lanes in each direction with a median). He commented that it has been a long process because of the funding involved and the agencies involved, then provided a recent history of how this project has evolved.
Mr. Lucero said that staff would like to start construction immediately, or within the next week or so. Additionally, there is a 120-day completion date so it is expected that the project will be completed by around the 1st of the summer, or July 1st.
Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez asked if the city would be getting any tribal help with this project.
Mr. Lucero said he believes there are numerous funding sources and Mayor Garcia added that the city is getting $400,000 (the commitment from the city’s Native American neighbors).
Mr. Hernandez also wanted to insure that there will be coordination among the two different contractors, Matich and Skanska, so that there will not be a gap between where the bridge stops and where the widening stops.
Mr. Lucero assured him that both contractors are aware that there is other work in the area and hopefully they won’t run into each other. He also assured him that they will have weekly meetings with the contractors.
Mr. Hernandez recalled that there are some billboards that need to be relocated and asked if this has been finalized.
Mr. Lucero replied that they are being addressed and they would be relocated by April.
Motion: To approve item 11(C) Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Villarreal Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
D. Approval to Award a Contract in the Amount of $23,061 to Agency: City Council Leighton Consulting, Inc., for the Soil Testing and Inspection Services for the Dateland Park Renovation, Project No. 2007- 16. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 12 of 23
Motion: To approve item 11(D) Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Macknicki Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
E. Approval to Accept, Close out, Ratify Change Orders 1 Agency: City Council through 12, and File a Notice of Completion for the Avenue 45 Reservoir and Booster Pump Station, City Project No. 2006-07.
Mr. Toor stated that this item is the notice of completion for the 48th street reservoir and the pump station, city project no. 2006-07. He said the original contract was in the amount of $6.9 million and the final dollar amount is $7.201 million. Mr. Toor explained that some changes were made during construction in the field and those changes are in the approximate range of $233,000 or about 3.4% of the original contract amount. This project is funded by the water utility operations reserve account and it will be financed through a United States Department of Agriculture loan that the city will apply for.
Mr. Toor stated that basically this tank will provide the city with a reliable source of supply for the summer months as well as to prepare for future development
Staff is recommending that the City Council accept this project as proposed, ratify change orders 1 thru 12, and authorize staff to file the notice of completion.
Mr. Toor noted that city staff is constantly meeting with CVWD as well as other water purveyors in the area on water availability.
Motion: To approve item 11(E) Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Villarreal Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 13 of 23
F. Approval to Accept, Close Out, Ratify Change Orders 1 Agency: City Council through 17, File Notice of Completion, and Issue Final Payment to Griffith Company for the Avenue 54 Waste Water Treatment Plant, Project No. 2139-027 and.
[This item was pulled from the agenda.]
G. Replacement of City-Owned Police Motorcycle. Agency: City Council
Lt. Barfknecht stated that the item at hand is for the replacement of a 2000 BMW motorcycle that currently needs to be maintained but is out of warranty. The motorcycle will be replaced with a Honda motorcycle and staff expects to save about 30% in on-going maintenance costs with this Honda. The purchase has been budget approved in last year’s budget. Staff recommends that the City Council authorize the purchase at a cost of $24,404.21, authorize the City Manager to execute all documents, and the Finance Director to make any transfers needed.
Mr. Steve Brown stated that the special distribution fund did not fund the police motorcycle for this current fiscal year but the Sheriff’s department will be opening dialogue with the tribe again for next fiscal year and possibly the city may be eligible for these funds again.
Mr. Hernandez said he understood that the special distribution fund is being withheld by the State because they’re basically saying through the State auditor that the local jurisdictions did not use the money appropriately
Motion: To approve item 11(G) Made by: Councilmember Macknicki Second by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
H. Purchase of Automated Ticket Writing and Collision Agency: City Council Reporting Systems. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 14 of 23
Lt. Barfknecht stated that staff did a lot of homework on this system which will allow the traffic officers to not only write their tickets and get motorists on their way a little quicker, but one of the biggest benefits is that it eliminates all data entry once the tickets are written. The system will allow the officers to swipe the coded drivers’ license and it will automatically fill in the fields. Any fields that aren’t filled in, or [if there are] changes to the driver’s license, they can quickly change them on a PDA-type instrument then print [the ticket] on a printer that is located on the motorcycles. The data is then transferred electronically to the courts and into the records management system thus eliminating a lot of background effort through data entry.
Also, this system will allow the traffic officers on the street to be more productive without putting the most expensive part of the equation in there – the people. Without adding people we’ll still be able to be more effective.
This software integrates directly with software already available in the city. The purchase is in conjunction with the City of La Quinta who is going to purchase the same thing so Coachella will experience a large cost savings because of the way the software is licensed. Staff is recommending that the City Council authorize the expenditure of $23,184.20 for this equipment and software, authorize the City Manager to execute all documents, and authorize the Finance Director to make all payments and transfers as necessary.
Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez asked if there is a model for code enforcement and whether or not staff has looked into this to have code enforcement do an automated ticket system too.
Mr. Steve Brown noted that staff had discussed this at length with code enforcement but at this point these are tickets issued to people, whereas code enforcement generally issues to a building or through the mail or things like that. The same kind of tracking is available, but there are still some things that need to be worked out before code enforcement can come onboard with it, but it is something staff is already looking into.
Motion: To approve Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Macknicki Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
I. Request Approval to Contract with Organizational Agency: City Council Effectiveness Consulting for Financial Analysis of Police Services (Phase I). COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 15 of 23
Mr. Steve Brown stated that the Council has been asking for some type of financial audit of the public safety portion of the budget since it is one of the largest parts of the budget. Now a consultant, Organizational Effectiveness Consulting, will be looking at the financial aspects of the police budget. They will be analyzing how much the city is spending, the type of service and number of officers, hours of services, etc., that the city will be receiving. The process will take approximately four months after which the consultants will provide the city with a complete study and analysis for the City Council’s review.
Mr. Steve Brown explained that after the analysis and getting the results of phase 1, it may conclude that the city will have alternatives for the amount of money that it is spending. It doesn’t necessarily mean starting a police force, though that could be one alternative. However, phase 2 would look at different alternatives for public safety for the city. Then phase 3 would be to go on from whatever the city determines it wants to do from that [phase 2].
Mr. Macknicki clarified that this would be an initial study, phase 1, that could provide enough information to indicate that the city is satisfied and to give direction to go on and not have any more studies.
Mr. Tim Brown commented that it [the study] will also help staff with negotiations which will be coming up very soon.
Chief Vigue remarked that the Sheriff’s department has undergone such studies in the past and they look forward to it and to working with the company that was selected. He is confident that the results will be quite favorable.
Motion: To approve item 11(I) Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Villarreal Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
J. Request for Determination that Public Convenience or Agency: City Council Necessity Would be Served by Issuance of License for Sale of Alcoholic Beverages, CVS Pharmacy, 84-010 Avenue 50, Coachella. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 16 of 23
Mr. Manriquez stated that this is a request from CVS Pharmacy, K. C. Holdings, LLC, for a public necessity of convenience letter for recommendation to the ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) Department from the city council recommending the issuance of a sales license for beer at the site. This is the Capstone project on [Avenue] 50 and Van Buren. This is one of the requests at this point in time.
Mayor Garcia recommended that action for this item be taken simultaneously with item 10(K) below as the request is basically the same and by the same applicant.
Mr. Manriquez agreed to do so.
K. Request for Determination that Public Convenience or Agency: City Council Necessity Would be Served by Issuance of License for Sale of Alcoholic Beverages, Fresh and Easy, 84-076 Avenue 50, Coachella.
Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez asked what the timelines or when the actual ground breaking will be.
Mr. Tom Wilhelm, K.C. Holdings, representing CVS project stated that the master developer is planning on breaking ground in a couple of weeks and this project will be right behind it. The plan is to open sometime before Thanksgiving.
Motion: To approve items 11(J) and 11(K) Made by: Councilmember Villarreal Second by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
12. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. 1. Resolution No. 2008-08, Agency: City Council
A Resolution of the City Council of the City Coachella, California, Amending the Official General Plan Land Use Designation from 7.247 Acres of “RVL” (Very Low Density Residential) and 5.06 Acres of “RL” (Low Density Residential) to 12.16 Acres of “RM” (Medium Density Residential) on a Total of 12.16 Gross Acres of Land (APN: 767-120-021) Generally Located on the South Side of Avenue 50 Between Jackson Street and Calhoun Street. Applicant: DSE Turco L.P. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 17 of 23
2. Council Bill No. 2008-04 (Ord. No. ), Agency: City Council
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Coachella, California, for the Pre- Zone (Change of Zone No. 07-08) from County of Riverside Designation of A-1 (Light Agriculture) to City of Coachella Designation of “R-M PUD” (Residential Multiple Family) on Approximately 12.16 Acres Generally Located on the South Side of Avenue 50 Between Jackson Street and Calhoun Street. Applicant: DSE Turco L.P. (First Reading)
3. Resolution No. 2008-07, Agency: City Council
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Coachella, California, Approving Tentative Tract Map No. 35523 for the Subdivision of Approximately 12.16 Acres (APN: 767-120-021) into 111 Residential Lots Generally Located on the South Side of Avenue 50 Between Jackson Street and Calhoun Street. Applicant: DSE Turco L.P.
4. Resolution No. 2008-09, Agency: City Council
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Coachella, California, Initiating Proceedings for a Reorganization of Boundaries: Annexation to the City of Coachella/Annexation to the Coachella Fire Protection District/Annexation to the Coachella Water Authority/Annexation to the Coachella Sanitary District/Detachment from the County Service 125 and Riverside County Waste Resource Management District/Detachment from Coachella Valley Water District Service Area.
5. Conditional Use Permit 231 for the Conditional Agency: City Council Approval of the Lot Sizes and Setbacks as Proposed in the RM-PUD (Residential Multiple Family-Planned Unit Development) Zone.
Mr. Perez stated that this project is for Resolution 2008-08, general plan amendment, Council Bill 2008-04, Change of Zone, Resolution 2008-07, a Tentative Tract Map that’s proposed, and Resolution 2008-09 for annexation, Conditional Use Permit, as well as mitigated negative declaration 07-13, architectural review 07-16 and residential street names. This is a project that was recommended for approval by the planning commission on January 6, 2008.
Mr. Perez noted that for the park dedication they are required to dedicate 1.57 acres of park, [but] they are dedicating one acre of park because private developments only receive half credit for parks. The developer is receiving .5 acres of park credit and in order to make up the difference they will be paying Quimby in-lieu fees to the city. The applicant is required to provide full park improvements on the park. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 18 of 23
The Fire Chief brought up the issue of an alley way, and Mr. Tim Brown clarified that the word “Alley” gives a different connotation and suggested using “interior streets” instead.
[There was extensive discussion on densities in the project.]
Mayor Garcia opened the public hearing for item 12(A) at 9:08 p.m.
Testimony: Mr. Ernie Carino thanked the Mayor and Council and the staff for the work that everyone has put into this project over the past two years.
Steve Wragg, RBF Consulting. Mr. Wragg spoke regarding trails, parking, and landscaping.
Linda Mitrovitch, Solution Strategies. Ms. Mitrovitch provided a little bit of the history on the project and their work with Vista Santa Rosa from their own circumstances.
Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez asked Mr. Manriquez if the city had a plan that transitions from that higher density to lower density; and whether staff has identified and studied the area in terms of the land use for that area. He stated that it would make for good consistency, following the themes of compatible uses.
Mr. Manriquez agreed and said that part of the efforts are that staff is going to be coming up with some street landscaping guidelines that could be part of that too.
As far as timelines, Mr. Carino replied that getting all the permits will take up all of ’08 so the groundbreaking will probably be in ’09.
Mr. Manriquez advised the Council members that this is a totally discretionary action because of the general plan amendment and the planned unit development.
Ms. Mitrovich requested that the Living Wall be part of this project because it provides a nice buffer and nice greenery for La Colonia.
Mr. Manriquez replied that the city’s municipal code requires a solid block wall in the perimeter of the subdivisions. Apparently the proposed Living Wall is to be the separation between both. What staff is concerned about is the maintenance and eventually the upkeep of the vegetation around it. Other concerns were with alleyways, however, no alleyways are being proposed. COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 19 of 23
Mayor Garcia explained that he and others recently went over to a Vista Santa Rosa meeting and extended the city’s good faith intention to work with them. Particularly when it comes to land use in those areas. He also wanted the city to perhaps make the nexus and increase the amount of the in-lieu Quimby fees because there will be an impact based on the 111 homes on the public park facility that will be constructed down the street. The Mayor suggested continuing this item to the next regular meeting as this can perhaps give staff time to find a middle ground to address that issue. He reiterated that he hopes to establish trust and credibility with Vista Santa Rosa.
Mayor Garcia closed the public hearing at 9:37 p.m.
Mr. Manriquez again noted that this requires a general plan amendment and only four can be done per year [per quarter]. He cautioned that if this item gets continued, it would probably be wise to mention it and the applicant has to be in agreement to continue towards April during the second quarter.
Mr. Tim Brown recommended to continue this public hearing item and bring it back in April. That way it gives the city credibility with Vista Santa Rosa
Motion: To continue this public hearing item until April Made by: Mayor Garcia Second by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez
Mr. Campos asked if the applicant is in agreement with continuing this item.
Mr. Carino agreed.
Clarification: Items that will be continued are 12(A)(1) – (5)
B. 1. Resolution No. 2008-10, Agency: City Council
A Resolution of the City Council of the City Coachella, California, Amending the Official General Plan Land Use Designation from “RL” (Low Density Residential) to “RM” (Medium Density Residential) on a Total of .434 Gross Acres of Land (APN: 778-093-010, -012) Generally Located on Seventh Street Near the Corner of Seventh Street and Palm Avenue. Applicant: Rancho Housing Alliance.
2. Council Bill No 2008-05, (Ord. No. ), Agency: City Council COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 20 of 23
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City Coachella, California, Amending the Official Zoning Map from “R-S” (Residential Single Family) to “R-M” (Residential Multiple Family) on a Total of .434 Gross Acres of Land (APN: 778- 093-010, -011, -012) Generally Located on Seventh Street Near the Corner of Seventh Street and Palm Avenue. Applicant: Rancho Housing Alliance. (First Reading)
Mr. Perez stated that Resolution 2008-10 and Council Bill 2008-05 are General Plan amendments and a change of zone for a senior housing residential project that is proposed within the city on Seventh Street. The general plan amendment and change of zone are required to allow for the project to be located on the site considering the type of project it is. They are proposing six units and in order to allow for those six units on three different parcels, the change of zone and the general plan amendment need to be approved. The General Plan amendment would change the general plan designation for the site from low density residential to “RM” medium density residential and the change of zone would change the designation of the site from the current designation as residential single-family to residential multiple family. Staff recommends approval.
Mayor Garcia opened the public hearing for item 12(B) at 10:00 p.m.
Testimony: None
Mayor Garcia closed the public hearing at 10:00 p.m.
Motion: To approve Resolution No. 2008-10, read title only Council Bill No. 2008-05 and pass to second reading Made by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Second by: Councilmember Villarreal Approved: 4-0 with one abstention, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez NOES: None ABSTAIN: Mayor Garcia ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
City Attorney Campos read title only for Council Bill No. 2008-05.
C. 1. Resolution No. 2008-11, Agency: City Council COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 21 of 23
A Resolution of the City Council of the City Coachella, California, Initiating Proceedings for a Reorganization of Boundaries: Annexation to the City of Coachella/Annexation to the Coachella Fire Protection District/Annexation to the Coachella Water Authority/Annexation to the Coachella Sanitary District/Detachment from the County Service 125 and Riverside County Waste Resource Management District/Detachment from Coachella Valley Water District Service Area. Annexation No. 61; Chuchian.
2. Resolution No. 2008-12, Agency: City Council
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Coachella, California, Amending the General Plan Land Use Designation on Approximately 86 Acres from “FL” (Los Density Residential 0-6 D.U./Acre) to “CG” (General Commercial) Generally Located South of Avenue 52 Between Van Buren Street and Calhoun Street. Applicant: Shirley M. Chuchian, Trustee of the Chuchian Family Trust Dated May 1, 1994 and to Gordon, Howard and Sandi, LLC, a California Limited Liability Company.
3. Council Bill No. 2008-06 (Ord. No. ), Agency: City Council
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Coachella, California, for the Pre- Zone (Change of Zone No. 07-10) from County of Riverside Designation of Heavy Agriculture 10 Acre Minimum (A-2-10) to City of Coachella Designation of CG (Commercial General) on Approximately 86 Acres Generally Located South of Avenue 52 Between Van Buren Street and Calhoun Street. Applicant: Shirley M. Chuchian, Trustee of the Chuchian Family Trust Dated May 1, 1994 and to Gordon, Howard and Sandi, LLC, a California Limited Liability Company. (First Reading)
Mr. Manriquez explained that this is a request for annexation of 86 acres into the City of Coachella that is currently within the sphere of influence of the City and located at 52 and Van Buren Street. The applicant had asked LAFCO to amend the sphere of influence about two years ago and it has since occurred. This is the first step for annexation of this property. Mr. Manriquez noted that Council has met with Vista Santa Rosa with respect to this proposal and they have expressed their position. Also during the review process the County of Riverside sent two letters with respect to this project and they asked the city to consider these and actually make the future project consistent with Vista Santa Rosa. Mr. Manriquez stated that he met with the County regarding the two letters and explained that at this point it is only an annexation. When the project comes to the city, it will have a full application. Staff will take the project to the County, and the EIR for it and the city will make assurances that the project will blend with their architectural guidelines, setbacks and everything else. Staff recommends to approve the Resolution 2008-11, 2008-12, Council Bill 2008-06, plan for the provision of services and adopt a negative declaration of negative impact for the project.
COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 22 of 23
Mayor Garcia opened the public hearing for item 12(C) at 10:05 p.m.
Testimony: None
Mayor Garcia closed the public hearing at 10:05 p.m.
Mr. Hernandez commented that it may seem that in this case the Council is being complete hypocrites about what was said earlier, but in this case the project here merits a change of zone and a JPA that far exceeds any type of argument insofar as the economic benefit that this could potentially bring to the city. In this case this project would be part of the whole four corner commercial piece. This is something that the city doesn’t have but it needs.
Motion: To approve Resolution No. 2008-11, 2008-12, read title only Council Bill No. 2008-06 and pass to second reading Made by: Councilmember Villarreal Second by: Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez Approved: 4-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Macknicki, Villarreal, Mayor Pro-Tem Hernandez, Mayor Garcia NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: Councilmember Ramirez
City Attorney Campos read title only for Council Bill No. 2008-06.
13. CLOSED SESSION
The closed session agenda items were considered earlier in the agenda directly after public comments.
14. CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENTS
The closed session announcements were made earlier in the agenda directly after public comments.
15. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City Council and Agencies, Mayor Garcia adjourned the meeting at 10:10 p.m. on a motion by Mayor Garcia and a second by Mayor Pro- Tem Hernandez.
Respectfully submitted,
COACHELLA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 13, 2008 PAGE 23 of 23
______Isabel Castillon, City Clerk
OD/02-18-08