CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
Thursday, June 20, 2024
1:30 p.m.
City Hall Council Chamber
44950 Eldorado Drive, Indian Wells, CA 92210
Present: Mayor Sanders
Mayor Pro Tem Whitman
Council Member Peabody
Council Member Reed
Council Member Griffith
_____________________________________________________________________
A. CONVENE THE INDIAN WELLS CITY COUNCIL, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Sanders convened the Council Meeting at 1:30 p.m. on June 20, 2024, in the City Hall Council Chamber.
B. APPROVAL OF THE FINAL AGENDA
Mayor Sanders requested to rearrange the agenda by moving General Business Item I.5 - Comprehensive Traffic Safety Action Plan to the beginning of the general business matters.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to Approve the Agenda as Amended.
C. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
C.1 Introduction of New Indian Wells Riverside County Sheriff Deputy Ju Yoo
Indian Wells Lieutenant David Wright introduced new Indian Wells Sheriff Deputy Ju Yoo. Lieutenant Wright detailed Deputy Yoo’s experience including serving at the Thermal Sheriff Station.
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
2 C.2 Introduction of New Assistant Finance Director Erika Flores Finance Director Kevin McCarthy introduced Erika Flores as the new Assistant Finance Director, highlighting her educational background and previous experience with the Desert Sands Unified School District.
C.3 Coachella Valley Air Quality Presentation by CVAG Executive Director Tom Kirk
CVAG Executive Director Tom Kirk, along with Dr. Emily Nelson, provided insight into the air quality issues following the significant storm Hilary which contributed to elevated dust levels. There was emphasis on the link between storm debris and worsening dust conditions, the need for soi l stabilizers, and prevention efforts with federal assistance. Council members raised questions about geographic impact and the duration or recurrence of dust issues. Mr. Kirk expressed his desire to continue to work with South Coast Air Quality to address the air quality issues.
C.4 Greater Coachella Valley Chamber Presentation by CEO/President Brandon Marley
Executive Director Brandon Marley introduced the Coachella Valley Chamber's team, shared various accomplishments, upcoming plans, and developments. Mr. Marley emphasized member satisfaction initiatives, legislative events, and support for local business participation in chamber activities. The Council expressed appreciation of the chamber's initiatives and the upcoming annual installation dinner.
C.5 Joslyn Senior Center Board Presentation by Indian Wells Representative Linda Blank
Indian Wells Representative Linda Blank applauded the Joslyn Center's community impact, noting increased membership and diverse activities.
Ms. Blank announced the upcoming retirement of Executive Director Jack Newby and suggested the new Executive Director Jay Seller provide a future update.
C.6 Recognition of City Manager's Five Years of Service to the City of Indian Wells
Council Member Griffith acknowledged City Manager Chris Freeland’s five years of service, praising his leadership and collaboration.
The meeting recessed for 15 minutes to celebrate.
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
3 C.7 RECESS CITY COUNCIL FOR 15 MINUTES
The meeting was reconvened at 2:29 p.m. in the City Hal Council Chamber.
D. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Ms. Julie Marquez, a resident, expressed concerns regarding the maintenance of the Mountain View Villas senior housing property. Ms. Maureen Emswiller, a resident, expressed concern relating to the ordinance regarding 9 -feet hedge height and suggested the Council review the matter. Ms. Jaqueline Bradley, a resident, expressed concerns regarding the landscape along Highway 111 and the Vue restaurant. Mr. Daryl Terrell, a resident of Moreno Valley, expressed his gratitude for the Council and City Manager leadership in adopting the catalytic Ordinance. Mr. John Schwarzlose, a resident, expressed concern about the speeding of vehicles in the City, supports a safety strategy and suggested reviewing each section of the City.
E. CITY MANAGER'S REPORTS
The City Manager Christopher Freeland informed the Council that an information email regarding the Epson Tour would be available to the public. Mr. Freeland reported on an upcoming Community Activities summer event and provided an update on the construction of the Indian Wells Golf Resort restaurant. Mr.
Freeland further reported on the partnership with Coachella Valley Firebirds and presented an update on the performance and profitability of the Golf Resort.
F. CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS AND COMMENTS
City Attorney Todd Leishman shared the update from the California Supreme Court regarding the removal of the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act from the November ballot. Mr. Leishman also provided a closed session report, noting that no action required reporting under the Brown Act was taken.
G. CONSENT CALENDAR
G.1 Ordinance Adopting Addendum to the City’s General Plan Environmental Impact Report, Amending the General Plan to Add a Public Benefit Land Use Designation, and Amending the City’s Zoning Code
It was determined to ADOPT Ordinance No. 753 to read as follows:
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
4 ORDINANCE NO. 753
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, ADDING, PURSUANT TO AN ADOPTED
ADDENDUM TO THE CITY’S GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, CHAPTER 21.37 AND AMENDING
SECTIONS 21.12.20 AND 21.12.030 OF THE CITY’S ZONING CODE AND APPROVING ZONE MAP AMENDMENT 2024-01 TO ADD A
PUBLIC BENEFIT LAND USE AND ZONING DESIGNATION; AND
DIRECTING STAFF TO FILE A NOTICE OF DETERMINATION.
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Ordinance. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.2 Ordinance Amending Section 2.12.030 of the Indian Wells Municipal Code Regarding Planning Commission Membership Terms
It was determined to ADOPT Ordinance No. 754 to read as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 754
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 2.12.030 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO MEMBERSHIP OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM
CEQA.
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Ordinance. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
5 G.3 Ordinance Amending Title 9 of the City of Indian Wells Municipal Code, and Adding Chapter 9.07 Regarding Unlawful Possession of Catalytic Converters
Council ADOPTS Ordinance No. 755 to read as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 755
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 9.07 (“UNLAWFUL
POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC CONVERTER”) TO TITLE 9 (“PEACE, MORALS, AND SAFETY”) OF THE INDIAN WELLS MUNICIPAL CODE, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE RIVERSIDE COUNTY ORDINANCE NO.
987, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE RELATING
TO THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC CONVERTER”;
AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM CEQA UNDER
STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061.
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Ordinance. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.4 Ordinance Establishing Rules for City Parks and Finds the Action to be Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) It was determined to ADOPT Ordinance No. 756 to read as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 756
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS ADDING CHAPTER 9.90 TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING REGULATION OF CONDUCT IN PARKS AND
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES; AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE
EXEMPT FROM CEQA; and
FIND that the ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Section 15304, where the proposed amendment consists of minor public or private alterations to the condition of land, water, or vegetation as there is no possibility the activity in question will have a significant effect on the environment.
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Ordinance. The motion carried by the following vote:
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
6 AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.5 Five-Year Fire Services Agreement with Riverside County Fire Department
It was determined to APPROVE Five-year Cooperative Agreement with Riverside County Fire Department to provide fire protection, fire prevention, rescue, and medical emergency services for the City of Indian Wells from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029; and
AUTHORIZE and DIRECT the Mayor to execute Agreement; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Approve Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.6 Annual Update to Employee’s Salary Range Schedule and FY 2024 -25 Approved Employee Positions
It was determined to APPROVE the annual update to employee’s salary schedule as required by the California Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act of 2013; and
APPROVE the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Approved Positions List with Annual Salaries and Ranges; and
DIRECT staff to post the employee salary range schedule on the City’s website; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Approve Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
7 AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.7 Resolution Revising the Purpose and Function of the Indian Wells Golf Resort Advisory Committee
It was determined to ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-25 to read as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-25
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, REVISING THE PURPOSE AND FUNCTIONS
OF THE GOLF RESORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Resolution. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.8 Calling for the General Municipal Election on November 5, 2024 It was determined to ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-26 to read as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-26
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF THE
HOLDING OF A REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD
CONCURRENTLY WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION ON
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024, FOR THE ELECTION OF CERTAIN
OFFICERS AS REQUIRED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO
CANDIDATES STATEMENTS AND OTHER MATERIALS SUBMITTED
TO THE ELECTORATE AND COSTS THEREOF; REQUESTING THE
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE TO
CONSOLIDATE SAID REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION WITH THE
STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE SAME DATE;
AND REQUESTING SAID BOARD OF SUPERVISORS TO PERMIT THE
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
8 COUNTY REGISTRAR OF VOTERS TO RENDER CERTAIN SERVICES RELATED TO THE CONSOLIDATED MUNICIPAL ELECTION; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Resolution. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.9 City’s Appropriations Limitation for Fiscal Year 2024-25 It was determined to ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-27 to read as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-27
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE ANNUAL
APPROPRIATION LIMIT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2024; and
FIND the action to be exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Resolution. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.10 City Treasurer’s Report for March 2024
It was determined to RECEIVE and FILE the City Treasurer’s Report for March 2024; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Pe abody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Receive and File Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
9 AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.11 City Treasurer’s Report for April 2024
It was determined to RECEIVE and FILE the City Treasurer’s Report for April 2024; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Receive and File Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.12 Annual Update to Local California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines
It was determined to ADOPT Resolution No 2024-33. to read as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-33
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF CITY OF INDIAN WELLS,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING AND ADOPTING LOCAL GUIDELINES FOR
IMPLEMENTING THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
(PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE §§ 21000 ET SEQ.); and
FIND the action is not a project under State CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Resolution. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
10 G.13 Amendment to AB 2766 Memorandum of Understanding with the Coachella Valley Association of Governments
It was determined to APPROVE Amendment six to AB2766 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City and the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (“CVAG”) to maintain the contributions at 75% for the Regional PM 10 Street Sweeping Program, through June 30, 2026.; and
FIND the action to be exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Approve Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
G.14 Resolution in Support of Emergency Management Performance Grant Applications
It was determined to ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-28 to read as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-28
SUPPORTING THE CITY’S FY 2023-024 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
PERFORMANCE GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO PROCESS ALL GRANT-
RELATED DOCUMENTS; and
AUTHORIZE and DIRECT the City Manager to process all grant related documents; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Whitman to Adopt Resolution. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
11 H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
H.1 Residential and Commercial Rates for Refuse Collection and Recycling Services and Annual Levy of Residential Parcels Mayor Sanders opened the public hearing at 2:53 p.m. to take public testimony in favor of or against Resolution No. 2024-29; hearing none, Mayor Sanders closed the hearing.
It was determined to ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-29 to read as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-29
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF
FEES FOR REFUSE COLLECTION AND RECYCLING SERVICES FROM
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERICAL PROPERTIES WITHIN THE CITY
PURSUANT TO INDIAN WELLS MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 8.04.190; and
FIND the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Reed, seconded by Council Member Peabody to Adopt Resolution. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
H.2 Proceedings to Form Proposed Community Facilities District No. 2024-1 (Public Safety)
Mayor Sanders opened the public hearing at 2:55 p.m. to take public testimony in favor of or against Resolutions.
Finance Director Kevin McCarthy provided a background relating to Community Facilities District 2024-01. Mr. Jonathan Genton spoke in support of the Community Facilities District formation.
Mayor Sanders closed the hearing at 2.59 p.m.
It was determined to ADOPT Resolutions No. 2024-30, 2024-31, and 2024-32 to read as follows:
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
12 RESOLUTION NO. 2024-30
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING COMMUNITY FACILITIES
DISTRICT NO. 2024-1 (PUBLIC SAFETY), CITY OF INDIAN WELLS,
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AND THE
BOUNDARIES THEREOF; and
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-31
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA CALLING A SPECIAL ELECTION AND
SUBMITTING TO THE VOTERS OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. 2024-1 (PUBLIC SAFETY), CITY OF INDIAN WELLS
PROPOSITIONS REGARDING THE ANNUAL LEVY OF SPECIAL TAXES
WITHIN THE COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT TO PAY THE COSTS
OF CERTAIN PUBLIC SERVICES, AND ESTABLISHING AN
APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT THEREFOR; and
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-32
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA DECLARING THE RESULTS OF THE
CONSOLIDATED SPECIAL ELECTIONS WITHIN COMMUNITY
FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. 2024-1 (PUBLIC SAFETY); and
INTRODUCE Ordinance to be read by title only and further reading waived, acting as the Legislative Body of Community F acilities District No. 2024-1 (Public Safety), Authorizing the Levy of Special Taxes in Such Community Facilities District; and
FIND the project to be exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3).
A motion was made by Council Member Reed, seconded by Council Member Peabody to Adopt Resolution and Introduce First Reading of Ordinance. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
13 H.3 Proceedings to Establish Future Annexation to Proposed Community Facilities District No. 2024-1 (Public Safety)
Mayor Sanders opened the public hearing at 3:04 p.m. to take public testimony in favor of or against Resolution No. 2024-34.
Finance Director Kevin McCarthy provided a background relating to future annexation of the proposed Community Facilities District.
Mayor Sanders closed the hearing at 3:05 p.m.
It was determined to ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-34 to read as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-34
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INDIAN
WELLS, CALIFORNIA, ACTING AS THE LEGISLATIVE BODY OF
COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. 2024-1 (PUBLIC SAFETY),
THE CITY OF INDIAN WELLS, COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE, STATE OF
CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE ANNEXATION OF TERRITORY IN
THE FUTURE TO SUCH COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT; and
FINDS the project to be exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 1506 0.
A motion was made by Council Member Peabody, seconded by Council Member Griffith to Adopt Resolution. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
I. GENERAL BUSINESS
I.1 Comprehensive Traffic Safety Action Plan
Public Works Director Ken Seumalo provided an overview of the Traffic Safety Action Plan.
Ms. Marcie Maxwell, a resident, expressed concerns relating to speeding vehicles in Indian Wells, stated support of sidewalks and the planning of safer streets. Mr. Ted Nicholas, a resident, spoke in support of a safety action plan and made suggestions relating to sidewalks. Ms. Meredith Asher, a resident, expressed concerns relating to city projects. Ms. Valerie Gates, a resident, spoke in opposition to removing the landscape. There
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
14 were 30 public comment submissions relating to the Traffic Action Plan included in the agenda record.
Mayor Pro Tem Whitman Council Member Peabody expressed concerns relating to the Traffic Safety Action Plan. There was clarification that the matter is a receive and file and public input would be taken at future meetings.
Mayor Pro Tem Whitman made a substitute motion which was unsuccessful due to a lack of a second. Mayor Sanders emphasized the process for implementing changes by having open discussions.
It was determined to RECEIVE and File the Comprehensive Traffic Safety Action Plan and the accompanying Resolution; and
FIND the project to be exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061 (b)(c).
A motion was made by Council Member Reed, seconded by Mayor Reed to Receive and File the Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 4 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders
NOES: 1 - Whitman
I.2 Annual Appointments to the Various Commission, Committees, and Boards Vacancies
It was determined to APPROVE the Council Ad Hoc Committee recommendations for a two-year term beginning on July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2026; and
APPOINT Robert Fry to serve on the Golf Resort Advisory Committee; and
APPOINT Dan Miller and Tyler Shigenaga to serve on the Grants In Aid Committee; and
RE-APPPOINT for a second term ending on June 30, 2026; Dawn Swajian and Tricia Cole to serve on the Community Activities Committee, Gordon Johnson and Toper Taylor on the Golf Resort Advisory Committee, Susan Paresky Grants in Aid Committee and Linda Blank to serve on the Joslyn Senior Center Board; and
FINDS the action exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3).
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
15 A motion was made by Council Member Reed, seconded by Mayor Sanders Member to Approve Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
I.3 Agreements with Abode Communities and Summit Development for Affordable Housing Development in Indian Wells
It was determined to AUTHORIZE and DIRECT the City Attorney to prepare and the City Manager to execute exclusive-negotiation agreements with Adobe Communities and Summit Developers (Genton Developers) regarding potential development of an affordable housing project in the City of Indian Wells; and
FIND the action is not a project within the meaning of Section 15378 of the State of California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Guidelines because it has no potential to result in physical change in the environment, directly or indirectly; and that the action is nonetheless exempt from the requirements of CEQA in that the activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. (14 CCR 15061(b)(3).)
A motion was made by Council Member Reed, seconded by Council Member Griffith to Approve Recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: 5 - Griffith, Peabody, Reed, Sanders, Whitman
NOES: 0 -
I.4 Proposed Ballot Measure for Special Fire Tax Increase Finance Director Kevin McCarthy introduced FM3 Partner John Fairbank to provide survey findings for a fire tax increase ballot measure.
It was the CONSENSUS of the City Council to take no further action on the proposed ballot measure for Special Fire Tax Increase.
I.5 Possible Partnership with Indian Wells Preservation Foundation for Development of a Museum/Library at the Carl Bray Site
City Manager Christopher Freeland provided a background on the need of various studies to move a project forward at the Carl Bray Site.
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
16 There was no action taken.
J. COUNCIL MEMBER'S REPORTS AND COMMENTS
J.1 COUNCIL MEMBER GRIFFITH
Councilmember Griffith reported that CVAG Conservation Commission received a letter from Coachella Valley Builder Association expressing concerns relating to fees. Ms. Griffith reported that CVAG Energy & Sustainability Committee conducted discussions regarding air quality and fees regarding disposal of waste at the landfill. Ms. Griffith reported that CVAG Homelessness programs continue to progress. Ms. Griffith further stated that the Community Activities Committee continues to plan resident events. Ms. Griffith requested that the Public Safety Committee review funding relating to traffic enforcement relating to veh icles speeding in the City.
J.2 COUNCIL MEMBER REED
Councilmember Reed reported that the Marketing Committee is conducting a meeting in early July, and he requested a marketing plan before the meeting. Mr. Reed reported Riverside Transportation Commission is not moving forward with a sales tax measure.
J.3 COUNCIL MEMBER PEABODY
No report.
J.4 MAYOR PRO TEM WHITMAN
Mayor Pro Tem Whitman stated his role on the Executive Committee for Coachella Valley Economic Partnership. Mr. Whitman reported that CVAG Public Safety voted for a Vision Zero policy. Mr. Whitman provided an update on a one-day sting operation in Indian Wells with Riverside County Sheriff concerning speeding, DUI, and noise, which resulted in 100 citations.
J.5 MAYOR SANDERS
Mayor Sanders reported that Cove Commission Communities is conducting a meeting on Monday, June 24, 2024, and reported receiving a report from CVAG Executive Director Tom Kirk regarding dust control.
Council Minutes-- June 20, 2024
17 K. ADJOURNMENT
At 4:42 p.m., Mayor Sanders Adjourned the City Council meeting to a regularly scheduled meeting to be held at 1:30 p.m. on July 18, 2024, in the City Hall Council Chamber.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________
Angelica Avila, MMC
City Clerk