CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
Cathedral City
Study Session 3:00 PM
Regular Meeting 5:30 PM
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
City Council Chambers
68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City, CA 92234
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Nancy Ross called the Study Session portion of the meeting to order at 2:59 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Council Present:
Nancy Ross, Mayor
Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tem
Ernesto Gutierrez, Councilmember
Rita Lamb, Councilmember
Mark Carnevale, Councilmember
Councilmember Ernesto Gutierrez arrived at 3:00 p.m. after roll call.
AGENDA FINALIZATION
There were no changes to the agenda.
1. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Robert McCormick discussed a letter he submitted to the City Council.
2. STUDY SESSION
A. Riverside County Animal Control Field and Shelter Services Contract Recommendation: This is for review and discussion only.
At a subsequent meeting, approve a three-year contract with Riverside County Department of Animal Services for Field and Shelter Service (Option #1 or #2).
Commander Nate Hanley provided an overview of the Riverside County Animal Control Field and Shelter Services Contract for review and discussion.
The following points were presented:
• Background
• Historical Data
• Current Contract Considerations
o Full Time
o Part Time
• Fiscal Impact
• Recommendation
The City Council asked clarifying questions, which were responded to by staff.
Direction was provided to staff to bring back a three-year contract tor part-time (50%) field and shelter services with Riverside County Department of Animal Services for consideration. Staff was directed to monitor relevant data and evaluate service options over the next six months, and to provide an update on the results to the City Council at a future meeting.
B. Regulations for the Operation of Food Trucks within Cathedral City Recommendation: To direct staff to introduce an ordinance for 1st reading for the adoption of an uncodified ordinance implementing a temporary food truck pilot program on private property.
Justin Gardiner, Code Compliance Manager, provided an overview on a proposed 18 month pilot program related to the operation of food trucks on private property. The following points were presented:
• Background
• Complaint Data
• Health and Safety
• Changes Across the Coachella Valley
• Proposed Pilot Program
• Recommendation
Eri Nox, provided feedback and recommended modifications for consideration.
The following comment was received for the record:
Danny Lee provided suggestions related to the proposed food truck regulations.
The City Council asked clarifying questions, which were responded to by staff.
Following discussion, the Council directed staff to prepare a draft ordinance that incorporates the feedback provided by Councilmembers for consideration at a future meeting.
3. CLOSED SESSION
A. 54957 Employee Appointment Pursuant to Government Code section One (1) position:
Title: City Manager
Recommendation: There is no Staff Recommendation.
B. Conference With Legal Counsel - Initiation of Litigation Pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(4)
Matters: One (1)
Receivership regarding 68460 Estio Rd, Cathedral City, CA 92234 Recommendation: There is no Staff Recommendation.
City Attorney Eric Vail announced that the City Council will meet in Closed session to discuss the items listed on the agenda.
The City Council recessed to Closed Session at 4:31 p.m.
The City Council reconvened the Regular meeting at 5:30 p.m.
City Attorney Eric Vail reported that the Council met in Closed Session to discuss the items listed on the agenda, he reported the following:
• Item 3A. There was no reportable action.
• Item 3B. Direction was provided to the City Attorney's office, and there was no other reportable action.
REGULAR MEETING - 5:30 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Nancy Ross called the Regular Meeting to order at 5:38 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Rita Lamb led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION (MOMENT OF REFLECTION)
Councilmember Mark Carnevale offered the Invocation.
ROLL CALL
Council Present:
Nancy Ross, Mayor
Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tem
Ernesto Gutierrez, Councilmember
Rita Lamb, Councilmember
Mark Carnevale, Councilmember
AGENDA FINALIZATION
There were no changes to the agenda.
1. SPECIAL PRESENTATION
A. Special Recognition - Cathedral City Police Department Employees Recommendation: This is a Special Presentation only.
The City Council presented members of the Police Department with a certificate of recognition for their work on a recent case.
B. Award Presentation - APWA CV 2025 Project Merit Award Winners:
Recreational and Athletic Facilities Category: Esperanza Park, City of Cathedral City
Traffic, Mobility, and Beautification Category: The Downtown Cathedral City Connectors: Gap Closure and Compete Streets project (ATP Cycle Recommendation: This is a Special Presentation only.
Andres Perez, , Assistant Engineer, presented the City Council with the American Public Works Association Coachella Valley Chapter 2025 Project Merit Award for Esperanza Park.
Andrew Lee, Assistant Engineer, presented the City Council with the American Public Works Association Coachella Valley Chapter 2025 Project Merit Award for the Downtown Cathedral City Connectors: Gap Closure and Compete Streets Project ATP Cycle 5.
2. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Micheal Torres, on behalf of the Palm Spring Police Officers Association, requested a sponsorship for their 9t Annual Memorial Ride.
3. COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilmember Mark Carnevale reported on the following:
• His meeting with Stacey Stevenson related to the City Manager recruitment • His meeting with Interim City Manager Ambrose and Director Firestine • His attendance at the All Valley Mayors, County and Tribal Chairpersons Luncheon
• His attendance at the Ribbon Cutting for Chipotle
• The upcoming Ribbon Cutting for Starbucks
• The upcoming Ribbon Cutting for Super Cuts
• His meeting with Mario Gonzalez, a developer, to discuss a new development project
• His attendance at the Fire Department's Badge Pinning Ceremony • His attendance at former City Manager Charles McClendon's retirement event Councilmember Ernesto Gutierrez reported on the following:
• His attendance at the Coachella Valley Association of Governments Conservation Meeting
• He wished Councilmember Carnevale a Happy Birthday
• His attendance at former City Manager Charles McClendon's retirement celebration
• The upcoming Ribbon Cutting for Koffi
• The upcoming Parks and Community Events Commission 2x2 Subcommittee meeting
• The upcoming Walk to School Day
• The upcoming Ribbon Cutting for Starbucks
• He asked everyone to pray for the family of Charlie Kirk Councilmember Rita Lamb reported on the following:
• She acknowledged staff from the Police Department, Engineering Department and Economic Development Department
• Her attendance at the Valley Wide Employment Expo
• Her attendance at the Hispanic Heritage event
• Staffs outreach to residents related to their desires for a future community center • Her attendance at two International Day of Peace events Mayor Pro Tem Raymond Gregory reported on the following:
• His attendance at the Mobility 21 Summit
• His attendance at the Ribbon Cutting for Chipotle
• His attendance at former City Manager Charles McClendon's retirement celebration
• His attendance at the Hispanic Heritage event
• His attendance at a Human Rights Campaign event
• The upcoming Special City Council meeting on Monday October 6, 2025 Mayor Nancy Ross discussed the issue of homelessness in the community.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
Recommendation: Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda M.O. 2025-164
B. Commissioner/Committee Member Attendance Record
Recommendation: Receive and File
M.O. 2025-165
C. Approve the September 10, 2025, Study Session and Regular City Council Meeting.
Recommendation: Approve the September 10, 2025, Study Session and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes.
M.O. 2025-166
D. Administrative Amendment to the CDBG FY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan Recommendation: To approve an administrative amendment to the city's FY 2023-24 Community • Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan to reallocate $43,124.76 in unused funds from the Via De Anza Street Improvement Phase III project to the Whitewater Neighborhood Road Improvement Phase Il project; and authorize the City Engineer to execute the administrative amendment for submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
M.O. 2025-167
E. Budget of $5,000 for the Inaugural Cathedral City Festival of the Arts Event in the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater.
Recommendation: To approve a not-to-exceed budget of $5,000 for the inaugural Cathedral City Festival of the Arts event as recommended by the Public Arts Commission.
M.O. 2025-168
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gregory and seconded by Councilmember Carnevale to approve the consent agenda.
RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Mark Carnevale, Councilmember
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb, Carnevale
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Ordinance Amending Chapters 3.48, 5.88, 9.108, and 13.240 and Section
9.30.030 of the Cathedral City Municipal Code to Update the Cannabis Tax, Cannabis Licensing and Zoning Regulations, and Enforcement Provisions
Recommendation: Find that the Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0004 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(B)(3) and introduce an ordinance amending Chapters 3.48,
5.88, 9.108, and 13.240 and Section 9.30.030 of the Cathedral City Municipal Code to substantially update the cannabis tax, cannabis licensing and zoning regulations, and enforcement provisions.
A motion was made by Councilmember Ernesto Gutierrez to continue the item to a date uncertain. The motion failed due to lack of a second.
Andrew Firestine, Director of Community and Economic Development, provided a presentation on the proposed Ordinance amending chapters in the Municipal Code updating the Cannabis Tax, Cannabis Licensing and Zoning Regulations, and Enforcement Provisions.
The City Council asked clarifying questions, which were responded to by staff.
Mayor Nancy Ross opened the Public Hearing to receive public comments.
April Dominguez expressed her concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Maria Velasquez expressed her support for the C4 facility.
Gustavo Ramirez expressed his support for the cannabis industry.
Luis Castro expressed his concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Megan Peterson provided her perspective on the cannabis odor.
Angel Virgen feels cannabis odor does not do harm.
Aaron Chambers discussed the City and the C4 facility.
Herbert Porras expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Abraham Reyes expressed support for the C4 facility.
Will Mendelson expressed support for the C4 facility.
Roger Laltoo expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Karen Lustman discussed the C4 facility and culture.
Anthony Fricke expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Melanie Porras expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Jose Aceves expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Lewis Lustman feels progress has been made regarding odor at the C4 facility and he provided suggestions for Council to consider.
Kevin Spring thanked staff for their efforts. He discussed his business and odor mitigation efforts.
Jose Macz expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
David Bernard expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Michelle Long expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Melissa Fox expressed concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Michael Crow expressed support of the cannabis industry and the C4 facility.
Michael McGloin expressed support for the C4 facility.
The following written comment was received for the record:
Trevor Hamelehle expressed his concern related to the proposed ordinance.
Mayor Nancy Ross closed the Public Hearing and returned discussion to the Council.
Discussion comprised of various proposed regulations, including the "three- strike" rule, references to misdemeanors, and the inclusion of limitations on the size of cultivation facilities. Following discussion, the City Council expressed support for the recommendation to remove limits on the maximum size of cannabis cultivation facilities to 22,000 square feet of canopy area.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gregory and seconded by Councilmember Gutierrez to find that Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25- 0004 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(B)(3) and introduce an ordinance, by title only, amending Chapters 3.48, 5.88, 9.108, and 13.240 and Section 9.30.030 of the Cathedral City Municipal Code to substantially update the cannabis tax, cannabis licensing and zoning regulations, and enforcement provisions, with the removal of the restriction limiting the maximum size of cannabis cultivation facilities to 22,000 square feet of canopy area.
RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Ernesto Gutierrez, Councilmember
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb, Carnevale
The City Council took a brief recess at 8:44 p.m.
The City Council reconvened at 8:57 p.m.
6. LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS
A. Adoption of the Updated Cathedral City Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
Recommendation: To adopt the updated Cathedral City Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. This adoption aligns with state and federal requirements for formally adopting hazard mitigation plans.
Reso 2025-27
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gregory and seconded by Councilmember Lamb to adopt the updated Cathedral City Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.
RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Rita Lamb, Councilmember
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb, Carnevale
B. 2025 Arts in California Parks - Implementation Grant Award Recommendation: To accept the 2025 Arts in California Parks - Implementation Grant in the amount of $98,167.00 and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the grant agreement.
M.O. 2025-170
A motion was • made by Councilmember Lamb and seconded
by Councilmember Gutierrez to approve the 2025 Arts in California Parks - Implementation Grant in the amount of $98,167.00 and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the grant agreement.
RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Rita Lamb, Councilmember
SECONDER: Ernesto Gutierrez, Councilmember
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb, Carnevale
7. DISCUSSION ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
It was the consensus of the City Council to agendize an item on a future Agenda to discuss various projects that are funded by other sources that were not previously discussed during the approval of the biennial budget.
8. CLOSED SESSION
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Nancy Ross adjourned the meeting at 9:24 p.m.
Hand prou
for Mayor, City of Cathedral City City Clerk, City of Cathedral City