Joint City Council & Housing Authority
Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, February 1, 2023
9:00 a.m.
Indian Wells Golf Resort, Celebrity Ballroom
44500 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells CA
Indian Wells City Hall
Welcome to a Special City Council and Housing Authority Joint Strategic Planning Session of the Indian Wells City Council. All documents for public review are available for public inspection at City Hall, 44-950 Eldorado drive, Indian Wells during normal business hours.
Public Comments: Members of the public who wish to speak during public comments, once the Mayor/Chair has recognized you, please come forward, please note that you may address the City Council and Housing Authority only on items that are listed on the Special Strategic Planning Session agenda.
Notification: If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable modification or accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) please contact the City Clerk at 760-346-2489, 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Please turn off all communication devices (phones) or put them on non-audible mode (vibrate) so it does not cause disruption in the council proceedings.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
1. CONVENE THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY JOINT
STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND
ROLL CALL
Mayor/Chair Griffith convened the Council Meeting at 1:30 p.m. on February 1, 2023, in the Indian Wells Golf Resort, Celebrity Ballroom.
Present: 7 - Chair Donna Griffith, Commissioner Greg Sanders, Commissioner Ty Peabody, Commissioner Bruce Whitman, Commissioner Dana Reed, Commissioner John O’hea, Commissioner Geneva Berns
2. APPROVAL OF THE FINAL AGENDA
A motion was made by Commissioner Reed, seconded by Vice Chair Sander to Approve the Agenda as Submitted. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 7 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman, O’hea, Berns
NOES: 0 –
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Ms. Marcie Maxwell, resident, expressed concerns about public safety and encouraged a comprehensive street plan. Coachella Valley Energy Commissioner Phillip Bettencourt reported efforts to conduct a study of electrical energy for the best alternative electrical energy. Mr. David Campbell, resident, spoke in opposition of a sidewalk on Fairway Drive and expressed concerns relating to communications on City project. Mr. Martin Lax, resident of Eldorado, expressed concern about the Eldorado streetlight, staff reports, pending public records act request, expressed opposition to the tennis ticket allotment proposal, proposed sidewalk, and passive park. Ms. Pamela Wallace, resident, expressed concern about the proposed sidewalk on the northside of Fairway Drive and requested clarification on the location of the sidewalk.
Ms. Elizabeth Scarcella, resident, requested clarification regarding the turf rebate program process. Mr. Larry May, resident, expressed his support for the turf rebate program, expressed concern about leaf blowers, and suggested adding additional funding for the program. Mr. Bruce Underwood, resident, expressed concern about the passive park, suggested preserving the park simply, and cautioned when negotiating ticket allotment.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
Ms. Cecile McBride, resident, spoke in opposition of passive park. Mr. Erik Johnson, resident, spoke in support of the ticket allotment proposal.
Mayor/Chair Griffith requested to move Council Item A – Turf Rebate Program as the initial discussion.
A. Indian Wells Turf Rebate Program
Public Works Director Ken Seumalo gave an overview of the turf rebate program. There was discussion about combining homeowner and residential turf rebate funding.
Council Member Reed recommended appropriate $200,000 for the rebate program.
Council Member Peabody expressed concerns regarding appropriate funds without a budget review.
It was determined to DIRECT staff to allocate $200,00 for consideration and discussion on the February 16, 2023, for the turf rebate program.
A motion was made by Council Member Reed, seconded by Council Member Whitman to Approve the Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 4 - Griffith, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 1 - Peabody
It was determined to DIRECT staff to combine homeowner association and residential turf rebate funding and bring back discussion to the February 16, 2023, for additional funding.
A motion was made by Mayor Griffith, seconded by Council Member Reed, to Approve the Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
4. INDIAN WELLS CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY
A. Annual City and Housing Financial Forecast
Finance Director Kevin McCarthy gave an update on the City and Housing Financial Forecast.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
Mr. Doug Hanson, resident, expressed concern about the appropriation of $200,000 for the turf rebate program, concerns about a tax increase, and suggested reducing spending. Mr. Byron Emswiller, resident, inquired about the funding to Eisenhower medical center, the inability to fund an additional police officer, and expressed concern about IronMan traffic. There was discussion regarding a long-term plan to fund public safety. There was discussion concerning a long-term pension plan for long-term tax savings and the review of new revenue opportunities to fund public safety.
City Council Fiscal Policies:
It was CONSENSUS of the City Council to continue discussions on the following items:
• Continue policy to reserve $2 million annually for long-term capital replacements. • Continue the Council Policy of maintaining a fully funded pension program. • Continue discussion on the Public Safety and Capital Community Facilities Districts and bring them back for further discussion.
• Direct the Finance Committee to review financial goals of the City to develop a plan to expand the pension program to pre-fund future pension obligations; and o Examine new opportunities for revenue measures and provide a dedicated funding source to address future funding needs of the City. o Provide direction on the best use of one-time loan funds being paid to the City by the former Redevelopment Agency.
B. 2023 Housing Authority Strategic Planning Session
Community Development Director Jon Berg gave an update on the Housing Element and Affordable Housing sites.
It was CONSENSUS of the Housing Authority to continue discussions on the following items:
• Long-term funding needs of the Indian Wells and Mountain View Villas. • Provide options on rent assistance to seniors living in both senior villas. • Analyze unintended consequences that may arise from this assistance. • Continue working with De Novo Planning to process the City’s Housing Element through final review and certification with HCD by April 2023. • Develop plans for channel improvements in partnership with the City of Indian Wells and other stakeholders.
• Continue efforts to develop affordable housing units along Highway 111 adjacent to Mountain View Villas with Abode Communities.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
• Continue efforts to monitor and report back the legal efforts to acquire the 34- acre site at the northeast corner of Miles and Warner Trail for the future development of additional affordable housing units.
• Authorize the Housing Authority Executive Director to develop a Request for Proposal (RFP) for new Property Management services at Indian Wells Villas and Mountain View Villas.
• Delay assessing maintenance and capital needs for both Mountain View and Indian Wells Villas in 2023 until a new property management firm can come on board to assist.
Chair Griffith recessed the meeting for an hour break and convened the Joint Strategic Planning Session at 1:00 p.m.
Commissioner O’hea provided a proposal for reasonable accommodations and expressed concerns regarding the increase in rents. The discussion was centered on reviewing and assessing the city's ability to provide financial assistance.
It was the CONSENSUS of the Housing Authority to review rents at both Senior Housing Facilities.
At 1:25 p.m., Chair Griffith adjourned the Housing Authority portion of the meeting, and reconvened the City Council at 1:30 p.m.
5. INDIAN WELLS CITY COUNCIL
A. Resident Benefit Opportunity- Annual Tennis Ticket Allotment
City Manager Christopher Freeland gave an overview of the proposed annual ticket allotment presented by Desert Champion. The acquisition and sale of Miles Avenue property was clarified.
Council Member Peabody expressed opposition to the proposal for Desert Champion ticket allotment.
Ms. Pam Wallace, a resident, expressed opposition to the proposed ticket allotment and expressed concerns about reducing resident benefits Mr. Doug Hanson, resident, requested clarification relating to the marketing rights for the tennis tournament. R ights.
Finance Director Kevin McCarthy clarifies host agreements and parking agreements with Desert Champion. Mr. Bruce Underwood, resident, stated the ticket allotment proposal is not reasonable.
Mayor Griffith expressed opposition to deciding without more community involvement.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
Desert Campion Chief Executive Office Raymond Moore gave a background on the tennis tournament and City negotiations.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to direct the City Manager to continue negotiations and return to the February 16, 2023 Council meeting for further consideration.
B. 2023 City Council Strategic Planning Session
Passive Park:
City Manager Christopher Freeland gave an overview of the park project. Southwest Church Pastor Brad Kenney provided a background on a plan to expand their campus and provide opportunities for the City to collaborate to provide a new amenity to the residents.
There was a clarification regarding the development of park concept three and concerns were expressed regarding the public safety access to the passive park. Council Member Peabody stated the Planning Commission requested additional resident outreach and inquired if the City is intending to contact residents who reside near the park and are affected.
Council Member Reed spoke in support of moving forward with the passive park. Architect David Herman gave a background of the passive park concept two and three. Mr. Peter Levar, resident, spoke in support of Passive Park. Ms. Cecile McBride, resident, expressed opposition to the passive park and expressed concern for public safety. Ms. Pam Wallace, a resident, spoke relating to parking along passive park.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to direct staff to finalize the passive park design incorporating resident comments from the Passive Park Sessions and bring back discussion to the March 2, 2023, meeting; and include a possible partnership with the Indian Wells Historic Preservation Foundation.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to examine the opportunities to collaborate with Southwest Church and Desert Recreation District for a new park facility for Indian Wells residents.
C. Capital Improvement Program Update
Public Works Manager Dina Purvis presented a comprehensive overview of the Capital Improvement Plan. There was discussion regarding applying for grants to offset costs for capital improvements. Mayor Pro Tem Sanders recommended focusing on Camino Dorado/Highway 111 intersection improvements as it could pose safety concerns.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Develop a new five-year CIP as part of the upcoming update cycle. • Continue investing in street maintenance program with the goal to achieve city average pavement condition index of 80 points higher.
• Maintain healthy vibrant and water conscience landscape citywide. • Perform annual sidewalk repairs to remove tripping citywide. • Implement other capital improvement projects to be identified.
Indian Wells General Plan:
City Manager Christopher Freeland gave an overview of the City’s General Plan, complete streets, and active sidewalks. Mayor Griffith stated the importance of slowing traffic and providing a safe environment for residents to walk. Council Member Peabody inquired about the need for the design of the sidewalk projects and requested clarification on the complete street concepts. Mr. Peter Levar, resident, suggested continuing the bike lane off Eldorado and considering a traffic island to assist in reducing traffic.
Energy Efficiency Opportunities:
Public Works Director Ken Seumalo provided an update on energy efficient programs.
Council Member Reed questioned.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Monitor the completion of the Energy Efficiency program and report to the City Council once complete.
• Direct the City Attorney to review the contract with vendor to determine any legal basis to facilitate quicker installation of the system or damages from delays in implementing the project.
• Apply for the Institute for Local Government Beacon Awards that the City may qualify for.
• Replace the title of this goal with Sustainable Community Goal. • Examine opportunities to expand recycled water (purple pipe) infrastructure in the community and other sustainable best practices.
Landscape Uniformity:
Public Works Director Ken Seumalo provided an update on landscape uniformity efforts and projects.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
• Develop an approved list of plants suitable to maintain the City’s distinctive landscaping along Highway 111 into the General Plan update and conduct community meetings as part of a redesign of Highway 111 landscaping to reduce turf along Highway 111.
• Develop a multi-year phasing strategy to budget the removal and replacement of publicly owned palm trees throughout the City.
• Examine grant opportunities to develop a citywide tree inventory and plant new trees.
• Develop landscaping standards for commercial centers along Highway 111 that are consistent with the City's uniform standards.
Tourism Update:
Ms. Collen Pace with Visit Greater Palm Springs provided an update In 2022 in tourism, Indian Wells marketing strategies, and Winterfest. Indian Wells Marketing Director Don Prince provided an overview of marketing plan and group leads for hotel occupancy.
Council Member Peabody requested to examine the marketing material provided to Acrisure arena.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Evaluate and revise the City Marketing and Tourism Plan with Visit GPS’ assistance. • Evaluate where tourism funds are invested in promoting Indian Wells as a tourism destination and incorporating opportunities to highlight the Indian Wells Golf Resort.
• A review of other marketing opportunities provided by Visit GPS or other organizations will also be considered.
• Incorporate sustainability efforts into marketing materials, which has proven to be essential for conference planners when deciding where to host their meetings. • Promote Indian Wells events, such as Winterfest, BNP Paribas Open, Ironman, and Pickleball.
• Evaluate the partnership with Acrisure Arena and suggest revisions to the media plan to maximize the City as the official city partner of the arena.
Community Events and Activities:
Deputy City Manager Peter Castro presented an overview of resident events and highlighted resident survey results for new event ideas. Mayor Pro Tem Sanders requested reaching out to Southwest Church choir or a school choir for Memorial Day ceremony.
Mayor Griffith suggested examining Pickleball sponsorship to ensure that those funds were allocated to other events. Ms. Griffith requested to examine a new employment position to assist resident ticket events. Council Member Reed suggested the Finance and Personnel Committee review a possible new position.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
Ms. Isabelle Chapman, a resident, requested the Council to consider tenant renters the option to acquire resident cards.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Continue identifying new community events and activities for residents and seek collaborations with Desert Recreation District and other organizations that may be able to assist in providing additional benefits to residents. • Contact Southwest Church and local schools to inquire about a possible choir performance at City events.
• Continue to examine Canadian Consulate to determine an interest in establishing a sister city relationship with Kelowna, Canada.
• Examine the requirements of the current Resident Benefit Program. • Review Pickleball sponsorship and determine if a portion of the funds can be better utilized for the Resident Benefit Program.
Provide Responsive, Innovative, and Efficient Public Safety:
Senior Management Analyst Kristen Nelson provided an update on public safety and emergency efforts. Mayor Pro Tem Sanders requested to examine future public safety costs.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Continue monitoring the various public safety initiatives in the Strategic Planning Session report and provide regular updates to the Public Safety Committee and the City Council.
• Examine opportunities for the Sheriff’s Department and Public Works to address further speeding in the community.
• Continue offering various emergency preparedness training for residents sponsored by the City and at participating HOAs.
• Complete the update to the City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Encourage and Expand Economic Development Opportunities in the Community City Manager Christopher Freeland provided an update on upcoming economic developments. Senior Management Analyst Kristen Nelson highlighted efforts to the business assistance program.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Implement a streamlined online plan check and permit process.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
• Continue efforts to develop the Genton and Brixton sites, including channel improvements, and present Council with development agreements for consideration in 2023.
• Complete a report explaining the value of memberships with the various regional economic development organizations in early 2023 and before adopting the Fiscal Year 2023-25 budget.
• Conduct additional meetings with Riverside County to determine the feasibility of an EIFD.
New Initiatives for 2023:
City Manager Christopher Freeland provided an overview of the new 2023 City initiatives .
Council Member Peabody requested to further review code enforcement initiatives and suggested additional assistance be considered for the weekends.
Update Communications Plan:
Mayor Pro Tem Sanders recommended the Communication Plan be reviewed by the Finance Committee.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Complete a comprehensive update to the City’s communications plan to ensure that all City stakeholders receive comprehensive information promptly. • Evaluate the City’s current practices for communicating with the community and seek recommendations to improve communication with all stakeholders.
Expand Partnership with the Indian Wells Preservation Foundation:
Indian Wells Historic Preservation President Linda Blank provided a background on the foundation’s efforts.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Assist Indian Wells Preservation Foundation in modernizing organization with a revised website and seek opportunities to partner on other projects of mutual interest in the coming year to include a history of the Indian Wells Golf Resort exhibit at the golf resort and possible assistance with the passive park or other projects in the community.
Joint Strategic Planning Session Minutes - February 1, 2023
Review of City Administrative Processes and Municipal Code Update:
Council Member Whitman expressed his support for conducting a thorough review of Measure J term limits code for enforcement.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to move forward with the following items:
• Complete a zoning code update to the Municipal Code upon completing the General Plan.
• Continue with the formation of an Ad-Hoc Committee be formed to review the administration of the various Council appointed resident committees. • Conduct a review of Measure J - City Council Term Limit Measure adopted by voters in March 2020.
6. ADJOURNMENT
At 5:16 p.m., Mayor Griffith adjourned the Joint Council meeting to a regular meeting of the City Council on February 16, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. on the City Hall Council Chamber.
Respectfully Submitted,
____________________________
Angelica Avila, MMC
City Clerk