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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2020-06-10 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Cathedral City Study Session Wednesday, June 10, 2020 5:00 PM City Council Chambers 68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero Cathedral City, CA 92234 • CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 5:00 PM by Mayor John Aguilar. • ROLL CALL Attendee Name Title Status Arrived John Aguilar Mayor Remote Raymond Gregory Mayor Pro Tem Remote Mark Carnevale Councilmember Present 5:00 PM Ernesto Gutierrez Councilmember Present 5:00 PM Rita Lamb Councilmember Remote Mayor John Aguilar, Mayor Pro Tem Raymond Gregory and Councilmember Rita Lamb all participated in the meeting via video conference. • AGENDA FINALIZATION • STATEMENT OF PARTICIPATION BY THE CITY CLERK 1. PUBLIC COMMENT 2. CLOSED SESSION Assistant City Attorney Al Ford announced that the City Council will meet in Closed Session to discuss the following items listed on the Agenda: A. Conference with Labor Negotiator Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 Agency Negotiator: Charles McClendon, City Manager Represented Employees: AFSCME - The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees CCPFA - Cathedral City Firefighters Association CCFMA - Cathedral City Fire Management Association CCPOA - Cathedral City Police Officers Association CCPMA - Cathedral City Police Management Association Non-Represented Employees B. Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation - Consideration of whether to Initiate Litigation Pursuant to Government Code 54956.9(d)(4) Number of Matters: One The City Council recessed to Closed Session at 5:03 PM The City Council reconvened at 6:20 PM Assistant City Attorney Al Ford announced that the City Council met in Closed Session to hold a conference with Labor Negotiator related to represented employees of AFSCME, CCPOA, CCPFA and CCFMA and Non-Represented Employees and held a conference with Legal Counsel regarding one case, there was no reportable action taken. ADJOURN Mayor John Aguilar adjourned the Study Session Meeting of June 10, 2020 at 6:20 PM. • _ .c. . / A11_. Ma r, ity •'. hedral City ity Clerk, •ity of •athedral o Cathedral City Page 2 Printed on 6/16/2020 Mayor John Aguilar adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 9:44 pm. itt}c;,-\&yElof.\ athedral City City Clerk, ity of Cathedr.I J Cathedral City Page 15 Printed on 6/24/2020 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Cathedral City Regular Meeting Wednesday, June 10, 2020 6:30 PM City Council Chambers 68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero Cathedral City, CA 92234 • CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM by Mayor John Aguilar. • PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Councilmember Mark Carnevale led the Pledge of Allegiance. • INVOCATION (MOMENT OF REFLECTION) Councilmember Ernesto Gutierrez offered the Invocation. • ROLL CALL Attendee Name Title Status Arrived John Aguilar Mayor Remote Raymond Gregory Mayor Pro Tem Remote Mark Carnevale Councilmember Present 6:30 PM Ernesto Gutierrez Councilmember Present 6:30 PM Rita Lamb Councilmember Remote Mayor John Aguilar, Mayor Pro Tern Raymond Gregory and Councilmember Rita Lamb all participated via video conferencing. • AGENDA FINALIZATION A motion was made by Mayor Aguilar and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Gregory to add discussion and possible action to item 6C., regarding Emergency Order 2D., related to the requirement of face coverings and social distancing in the public. M.O. 2020-78 RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: John Aguilar, Mayor SECONDER: Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tern AYES: Aguilar, Gregory, Carnevale, Gutierrez, Lamb • STATEMENT OF PARTICIPATION BY THE CITY CLERK 1. PUBLIC COMMENT The following individual provided their public comment via phone call: Brad Anderson, Rancho Mirage, expressed his concern with mosquitoes and feels it's important to take care of mosquito sources. He also gave a brief overview of the recent Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District Board meeting. The following individuals submitted comments for the record. Their comments were read for three minutes and are summarized below. The entire comment will be made part of the record according to our standard procedures. Albert Shahbazi, short-term vacation rental owner, encouraged the City Council to accept proposal one regarding Cathedral City short-term vacation rentals. He provided public information from Cathedral City Channel 3 News. He stated that he, along with many others, have spent a portion of their life savings on their properties. He also feels that the solution is stronger regulations and enforcement. Sona Sarkisyan feels that the main complaint of residents regarding short-term vacation rentals is they feel unsafe having strangers in their neighborhoods. She provided headlines and links to articles regarding crime caused by Cathedral City residents and gang members. She feels that criminals and gang members would not spend the money to rent a short-term vacation rental to commit crime. She also feels that short-term rentals are a benefit to the City because they increase tourism and boost the economy. She feels that accepting proposal two would be slowing down the City's growth, economy and real estate market; whereas, accepting proposal one would be giving the City a chance to grow, expand and bring tourism and diversity. Nareh Shahba, owner of a short-term rental, urged the City Council to implement proposal one. She stated that she and many others have invested their life savings into their rental properties and have been suffering since the moratorium went into effect. She feels investors care and do want to make this program work. She also feels that eliminating the program would hurt Cathedral City's economy tremendously. She provided suggestions for rules and regulations. David De Leon, Cathedral City resident and short-term rental owner, feels that phasing out short-term rentals would reduce tax revenue and have a impact on local businesses. He feels owners are willing to do whatever it takes to make the process work. He suggested the City Council look at addressing the core issue while Cathedral City Page 2 Printed on 6/24/2020 supporting small businesses. Thomas Faragher, short-term rental owner, expressed his concern with a comment made at the last City Council meeting claiming rental owners only care about money. He indicated that he plans to retire in his home in a few years but would be forced to sell, if short-term rentals are banned. He would like the City Council to ensure all community voices are heard and a fair process is exercised by considering a vote by ballot, as was done in Palm Springs. Kristine Hovsepyan is in support of short-term rentals in the City and feels they have positively impacted and brought good changes to the City. Angela Kostikyan, long time vacationer of Palm Springs and Cathedral City, feels that placing harsh restrictions on short-term rentals will be doing a disservice to local businesses and asks that the City Council reconsider prohibiting short-term rentals. Tracey Ridout, short-term vacation rental owner, is in support of the City allowing short-term rentals and feels the City is trying to cripple their revenue stream from their rental. Tatevik Tsarukyan, Cathedral City, fully supports short-term rentals because they improve neighborhoods, benefit workers and bring revenue to the City. Hovik Hakobya, Cathedral City property owner, supports short-term rentals and feels vacationers come here to relax and enjoy the weather, not to party. He hopes that the City Council will make a fair decision for everyone. Simon Hovsepyan, Cathedral City, stated that he is a pool man and has a job because of short-term rentals. He stated that hundreds of people will be unemployed and unable to support their families if short-term rentals are no longer allowed. He asked that the City Council not stop short-term rentals. Christie Havener, cleaning service owner, stated that she is advocating to continue short-term rentals in Cathedral City. She feels they contribute to the community and provide work for the people on many levels. She also feels that her cleaning protocols keep people safe and urged the City Council to allow owners to rent their properties. Tosvik Moren, Cathedral City, is in support of short-term rentals and feels they make the neighborhoods look better and helps the local economy. He stated that there are two short-term rentals on his street, and he has never had any issues with any of the vacationers. Diana Guevas, Cathedral City, stated that she is a small business owner and her business survives on the revenues from vacationers. The shutdown has impacted her, and she is struggling financially. She is in support of short-term rentals and hopes the City Council will make the right decision and allow permits again. Cathedral City Page 3 Printed on 6/24/2020 Gaya Dergevorkia, short-term rental owner, stated that she purchased her property in Cathedral City a year ago with the intent of using it as a rental and a vacation home. She stated that she stands to lose her entire life savings if proposal two is exercised and feels it will have negative effects on the real estate market. She also expressed her concern with the loss of jobs, if short-term rentals are banned. She feels proposal one would be a compromise that will ensure the quality of life for residents while avoiding financial distress to owners and their families. Iveta Ovsepya, Cathedral City, fully supports short-term vacation rentals because they improve the neighborhoods, benefit workers and bring revenue to the City. Patrick Reynolds, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that they purchased a second home to rent out short-term and for personal use. He stated that he can't afford to continue to own a rental property if he can't rent it out. He questioned why the City would ban all short-term rentals for the bad actions of a few. He feels that better enforcement and fines seem to be a more sensible approach than penalizing everyone. He feels the solution is to hold owners and their renters accountable. Don Watkins, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that he had been renting his property out short-term for the last 4 % years and he depends on the income. He opposes the elimination of short-term rentals and urged the City Council to allow him to rent is property. Simeon Den, Cathedral City, addressed Councilmember Rita Lamb stating that he would like to address specific concerns regarding the Cove neighborhood but has been unable to reach her. He asked that Councilmember Lamb meet with residents for an open forum. Allison and Bill Tucker, short-term rental owners, stated that disallowing short-term rentals is a big mistake and right now the City needs all the revenue they can get. Rozalind Holbrook, expressed concern about the discussion to defund Police Departments and feels that if the City Council considers this action there will be protests. Alessandra Montanaro, short-term vacation rental owner, expressed that the City Council should rescind the short-term lodging restrictions and provided a list of reasons why. She stated that she is more than willing to comply with any other rules and regulations the City puts in place upon lifting the restrictions. Max and Rhonda Rubalcava, short-term vacation rental owners, stated that they have owned their short-term vacation rental for five years and in that time have never had a complaint or citation. They feel that short-term rentals generate income for owners, housekeeping services, pool maintenance, landscapers, handyman services, pest control services, and appliance repair services, which creates substantial economic contribution to Cathedral City. They feel that banning short- term vacation rentals would not be in the best interest economically for the City or homeowners. They recommended imposing stricter guidelines and more fines for owners that do not comply with regulations. Cathedral City Page 4 Printed on 6/24/2020 Cherie Bolger, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that she and her husband purchased their rental for retirement. She asked that the City Council reconsider their agenda to ban short-term rentals and instead remove all illegal short-term rentals. Luxury Estate Weddings and Events, stated that short-term vacation rentals can bring positive impact to Cathedral City by providing tax revenue and boosting the local tourism sector. They feel the City should be enthusiastic to attract tourists and feels there is a direct correlation between short-term vacation rentals and job creation in the tourism sector. George Brain and Randy Sawyer, short-term vacation rental owners, stated that they recently occupied their rental and expressed their concern with receiving a visit from Code Enforcement. They feel the majority of short-term vacation rental complaints are false, which exposes the City to liability and risk. They requested that the City review its practices to reduce liability. 2. COUNCIL REPORTS Mayor Pro Tem Raymond Gregory reported that he attended the CVAG Transportation Committee meeting, projects continue to move forward. He also attended a meeting with City Manager Charles McClendon and SunLine Transit Agency via Zoom and provided a brief overview of the service improvements and the initiative Refueled. He attended the Riverside County Transportation Commission meeting where they adopted a new budget and reported that many projects are still moving forward. He commented on the recent incidents related to racism and feels it is important to work together to combat racism in all its forms. He also feels like the recent events have made the younger generations realize they need to be more involved and they should be applauded. He urged everyone to stay active but stay safe. He stated that he is proud of our Police Department and feels consistent training and review of policies and policing methods are key. He stated that he is also confident that the City Council will continue to support efforts to support diversity in the City. Councilmember Rita Lamb thanked Mayor Pro Tem Gregory for his remarks. She reminded everyone that the pandemic is still out there and COV1D-19 testing is available at the Cathedral City Library through July. She met with the Rotary where they discussed the development and progression of the casino and the amphitheater. She urged everyone to support and visit local businesses per their comfort level. She also thanked the City Manager and City Council for their guidance during these difficult times. She announced that the League of CA Cities is recognizing Cities for their enhanced public trust, health and wellness, and engaging youth in local government, which she applied to be a judge for. She met with Tony Maize from CORE, who is overseeing the refurbishing of the Cathedral Palms Senior Living project. She stated that the Riverside County Economic Recovery Task Force has provided personal protective equipment for businesses which are available at the Chamber of Commerce while supplies last. She announced that the Great Plates program is continuing. She also spoke with Joanne Kennon, who is heading up the Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club Father's Day Fundraiser, which will be a curbside pickup picnic on June 20, 2020 at 1:00 pm. She participated in the California State University San Bernardino Memorial Service for George Floyd via Zoom. She Cathedral City Page 5 Printed on 6/24/2020 thanked all the applicants for the upcoming vacant Commission seats for their willingness to serve. She reported that she spoke with a concerned resident regarding an easement on their property. She also spoke to a resident regarding the protocols for business licensing. She apologized to those residents who have not been able to reach her, and she will be sure to get back with them. Councilmember Ernesto Gutierrez stated that local businesses need us and reminded everyone to shop local when the businesses reopen. He participated in a Zoom meeting along with Councilmember Lamb and a developer who is interested in developing in Cathedral City. He attended a Street Naming Ceremony where students from Cathedral City High School and Mt. San Jacinto High School will have a street named after them for a year. He attended a meeting, along with City Manager Charles McClendon and Tami Scott, to discuss the City Budget and what we are looking at for the future. He also met with City Manager McClendon and Director John Corella. He stated that he stopped by the Civic Center to observe the protest that was held and reported that it was peaceful. He spoke with a concerned resident regarding defunding the Police Department, which he stated he is opposed to. He also spoke to a local business owner who questioned if the City offers grant or loan to programs to help local businesses. He informed the business owner that the City does not have any programs available, however it is his hope that the City can offer something in the future. He announced that homeowners who are serviced by Coachella Valley Water District can receive a $100 rebate if they replace their old toilets. He thanked the Police Department for everything that they do for the City. As a Councilmember he supports the Police Department and as a human being he is disgusted with what he saw happen to George Floyd. He wished everyone a happy Father's Day. Councilmember Mark Carnevale attended the Street Naming Event mentioned by Councilmember Gutierrez. He was excited to see the young adults moving up and doing great. He commented on the Great Plates program and stated that his restaurant participated in the program. He feels that it is a great program going to those really in need. He thanked Stone James for his efforts and commended Riverside County for getting the program going. It is his hope that the program continues. He stated that he continues to receive and respond to letters in favor and opposing short-term vacation rentals. He reported that he also attended a Public Safety Meeting and reminded everyone that it is officially fire season. He stated that he was very impressed with Sheriff Bianco's comments related to protesting and feels they did an excellent job keeping the peace. He indicated that he received a call from a constituent thanking Chief Crum for the work that they do. He stated that he believes everyone has the right to protest, but it should be done peacefully. He commended Chief Crum and the Police Department on their handling of the two protesting events that took place in Cathedral City. He believes that the Cathedral City Police Department is well trained and can improve under good leadership, which they have. He commended staff for their hard work on the budget due to COVID-19. Mayor John Aguilar commended Mayor Pro Tem Gregory for his comments related to George Floyd. He stated that he did an opinion editorial piece related to the incident. He feels that our Police Department is doing a wonderful job but always supports a review of policies and efforts to reinvest into our community related to Cathedral City Page 6 Printed on 6/24/2020 social justice. He also feels that Chief Crum has done a great job dealing with the recent incidents along with the men and woman of the Police Department. He stated that he has received many calls and emails related to short-term vacation rentals and indicated that recommendations from the Short-Term Vacation Rental Task Force should come before the City Council in July or August. He continues to participate in weekly calls with Office of Emergency Services for updates related to COVID-19. He referred to an article in the Desert Sun related to the availability of 5 million dollars in grant funds through Riverside County for non-profits. The application process will begin in July and he encouraged the non-profits in Cathedral City to apply for those funds. He indicated that more information will be added to the City's website. 3. CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Councilmember Carnevale and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gregory to approve the following Consent Agenda items: RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Mark Carnevale, Councilmember SECONDER: Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tem AYES: Aguilar, Gregory, Carnevale, Gutierrez, Lamb A. Minutes Approval M.O. 2020-79 1. City Council - Study Session - May 27, 2020 5:30 PM 2. City Council - Regular Meeting - May 27, 2020 6:30 PM 3. City Council - Special Meeting - Jun 1, 2020 11:00 AM B. Receive and file Payment of Claims and Demands for May 2020 Recommendation: The City Council acting in its capacity for the City, the Successor Agency to the former Redevelopment Agency, the Housing Successor Agency, and the Cathedral City Public Finance Authority Board receive and file payment of claims and demands in the aggregate sum of$5,174,282 for the month of May 2020. M.O. 2020-80 C. Biennial on-call and/or as needed Service Contract Awards for Land Surveying and Mapping, Traffic Engineering and Traffic Signal Maintenance and Emergency Services Recommendation: To award biennial on-call and/or as needed service contracts to: MSA Consulting, Inc., NV5, Inc and Fomotor Engineering for As-Needed Land Surveying and Mapping services; and, Albert A. Webb & Associates and Advantec Consulting Engineers, Inc. for On-Call Traffic Engineering Services; and, Cathedral City Page 7 Printed on 6/24/2020 • Siemens for Traffic Signal Maintenance and Emergency On-Call Services and authorize the director of Engineering/Public Works and Public Works Manager to negotiate to reduce the final labor, equipment and additional work rates; and, Authorize the City Manager to execute all the required contracts. M.O. 2020-81 D. Approve an Amendment to the Cathedral City Police Officers Association (CPOA) Memorandum of Understanding Recommendation: To approve an Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Cathedral City and Cathedral City Police Officer's Association (CCPOA). M.O. 2020-82 E. Resolution authorizing application for, and receipt of, the Local Government Planning Support Grant Program Funds referred to as the Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) Grants and corresponding budget amendment Recommendation: To adopt a Resolution authorizing application for the Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) Grants available through the State of California, Department of Housing and Community Development. Reso 2020-23 F. Establishing the Annual Special Tax for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020-2021 (Rio Vista Village) Recommendation: To adopt a Resolution of the Cathedral City Community Facilities District (CFD) No. 2000-1 (Rio Vista Village) establishing the annual special tax for FY 2020-2021. Reso 2020-24 4. ITEMS PULLED FROM CONSENT 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. ANNUAL RENEWAL OF THE LIGHTING & LANDSCAPING DISTRICT BUDGET Recommendation: To hold a public hearing and adopt resolutions approving the final engineer's report and ordering the levy and collection of annual assessments for the sixteen (16) existing benefit zones for the annual renewal of the Lighting and Landscaping District Budget for FY 2020-2021 . Tami Scott, Director of Administrative Services, presented the annual renewal of the Lighting and Landscaping District. Mayor John Aguilar opened the Public Hearing for comments, there being none, he closed the Public Hearing and returned discussion to the City Council. Cathedral City Page 8 Printed on 6/24/2020 Reso 2020-25 Reso 2020-26 A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Gregory and seconded by Councilmember Carnevale to and adopt resolutions approving the final engineer's report and ordering the levy and collection of annual assessments for the sixteen (16) existing benefit zones for the annual renewal of the Lighting and Landscaping District Budget for FY 2020-2021. RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tern SECONDER: Mark Carnevale, Councilmember AYES: Aguilar, Gregory, Carnevale, Gutierrez, Lamb 6. LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS A. Riverside County Animal Control Field and Shelter Services Contract Recommendation: To approve a one-year contract with Riverside County Department of Animal Services for Field and Shelter Service. It was the consensus of the City Council to continue this item to June 24, 2020. B. Reject proposals for As-Needed Material Testing Services and Professional Geotechnical Recommendations Services Recommendation: To reject the As-Needed Material Testing Services and Professional Geotechnical Recommendation Services proposals received on May 26, 2020 and authorize the Director of Engineering/Public Works to re-advertise for proposals. The following individual submitted a comment for the record. Their comment was read for three minutes and are summarized below. The entire comment will be made part of the record according to our standard procedures. Terry Applegate, Cathedral City, stated that the sidewalk on the Southeast corner of Date Palm and Ramon Road was reconfigured, which made it much less accessible for those using a wheelchair or other mobility device. She stated that the City needs to ensure that any firms hired must comply with ADA compliance requirements. M.O. 2020-83 A motion was made by Councilmember Gutierrez and seconded by Councilmember Carnevale to reject the As-Needed Material Testing Services and Professional Geotechnical Recommendation Services proposals received on May 26, 2020 and authorize the Director of Engineering/Public Works to re- advertise for proposals. Cathedral City Page 9 Printed on 6/24/2020 RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Ernesto Gutierrez, Councilmember SECONDER: Mark Carnevale, Councilmember AYES: Aguilar, Gregory, Carnevale, Gutierrez, Lamb C. Update on Emergency Actions Related to COVID-19 City Manager, Charles McClendon provided an update on things that have taken place since his last update. He stated that Cathedral City is seeing a surge in COVID-19 cases, but the death rate continues to be low. We continue to have adequate personal protective supplies for our first responders and employees. The City is working on plans for modifications to city facilities for when the City reopens to the public. We continue to provide services to the public even with City Hall being closed. The following individual provided their public comment via phone call: Boris Stark, urged the City Council to rescind emergency order 2D., related to short-term lodging and allow operation under the strict State and County guidelines. The City Council recessed at 8:34 pm. The City Council reconvened at 8:45 pm. The following individuals submitted comments for the record. Their comments were read for three minutes and are summarized below. The entire comment will be made part of the record according to our standard procedures. Robert Kranack, Cathedral City, stated that he owns a short-term rental and would like to let the City Council know that he is ready to reopen safely. He feels that allowing homes to host guests is much safer than hotels. He encouraged the City Council to consider allowing short-term rentals to reopen. Lowell Friedman and Ellen Joshowitz, Cathedral City, stated that they have had discussions with Mayor John Aguilar and Charlie McClendon concerning the reinstatement of short-term rentals. They feel it is time to reopen short-term vacation rentals now for the benefit of the whole community. Susan MacMurchy, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that she has operated short-term rentals for 10 years and has invested a sizable sum of money into her property. She stated that she will follow all Riverside County rules and regulations upon reopening and looks forward to working with the City to meet new requirements for the health and safety of her visitors. Stephanie Lotze, Cathedral City, expressed her concern with the effects of short- term rentals on the community. She feels that reopening is inevitable and should be considered carefully using recommended safety protocols. She stated that at Cathedral City Page 10 Printed on 6/24/2020 a time when businesses are struggling, short-term renters provide additional patronage. She urged the City Council to consider allowing short-term rentals to continue. Patricia Alvarez, short-term rental owner, urged the City Council to allow short- term rentals to open as this is the only way to help save their home from foreclosure. David Guerra, short-term rental owner, urged the City Council to allow short-term rentals to reopen. He feels they benefit owners, businesses, and the local Cathedral City economy. He would like to get back to showing off the beautiful City and Valley to as many people as possible. Ethan and Brooke Nordberg, short-term rental owners, stated that they are ready to reopen safely. They feel that banning short-term rentals is not the best thing for Cathedral City and hope that the City Council will make the best decision for the local economy. Maria DeLa Rosa, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that she is a first-time short-term vacation rental owner and has spent over $100,000 improving her home. She has never received a complaint or a violation from the City and has taken precautions for the safety of her guests. She looks forward to working with the City to reopen safely. Gohar Zakaryan, short-term vacation rental owner, is in favor of rescinding Emergency Order 2D and is committed to following all guidelines if the decision to resume short-term vacation rentals is made. Galust Kapikyan, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that the State of California has released guidelines for reopening short-term vacation rentals and feels Cathedral City continues to inflict financial devastation to STR owners. He requested that short-term operations resume since the casinos are currently open and operating. Alicia Lancashire, Cathedral City, urged the City Council to lift the restrictions on short-term vacation rentals. She has safety protocols in place to ensure her guests are protected and feels that public safety is not impacted by people staying in short-term rentals. Damian and Kathi Thomas, short-term vacation rental owners, stated that they were disappointed to hear of the City Council's decision to extend the shut-down of short-term vacation rentals. They are committed to exceeding the safety protocols outlined by the County of Riverside and feels it is appropriate to open short-term vacation rentals in Cathedral City. No name was provided, expressed their concern with not being able to rent their rental for months and as a result they do not have necessary money to pay for their bills. They urged the City Council to reopen short-term vacation rentals now. Pam Meisl, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that they have owned their Cathedral City Page 11 Printed on 6/24/2020 home for 15 years with no complaints. She is in favor of reopening short-term vacation rentals to continue the growth of Cathedral City in a prosperous way. Nicholas Barlow, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that the State of California released guidelines for the reopening of short-term rentals and urged the City Council to follow suit like the other Coachella Valley cities and reopen. Bonnie Caruso, short-term rental owner, shared her guidelines for reopening her rental. She feels it is time for the city to move in a positive direction. Martin F. Goldman, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that he has owned his property in Desert Princess since the early 1980s. He feels that home values could shatter if the City stops allowing short-term rentals. He strongly suggested that the City Council let Emergency Orders sunset at this time. Nathalie Boisvert, stated that short-term vacation rentals need to reopen to benefit the City's economy. Tina Khachatrian, business owner, urged the City Council to reopen short-term vacation rentals. She stated that business owners need the income and visitors bring income into Cathedral City. Darryl Keene, Cathedral City, encouraged the City Council to reopen vacation rentals. He stated that professionals agree that single family short-stay residences are safe with proper cleaning and booking protocols. He believes it is critical to actively pursue ways to reopen our struggling economy. Jeanine Burke, short-term vacation rental owner, feels it is time to reopen short- term vacation rentals within the guidelines of Riverside County. She has maintained a STR license for 5 years and has strict cleaning protocols in place. She stated that without STR's many will not be able to pay their bills and risk having to sell their homes. She urged the City Council to consider this when deciding the next step. Richard and Eric Altman, Cathedral City, expressed their full support for the City of Cathedral City to allow hotels to open on June 12, 2020, in accordance with the permissions and guidelines of CAL OHSA. They feel the City and the CCBC both deserve a chance to open for business, earn money, employ people and get the economy going. Brian Felber, short-term vacation rental owner, urged the City Council to allow short-term rentals to reopen in compliance with Riverside County, the State of California, the Governor's Office and Federal Government regulations. He wants to ensure his home remains COVID free and has taken steps to ensure the house is disinfected from top to bottom. Jim Cox and Tom Aubrey, Cathedral City, stated that they have instituted new cleaning regulations and booking gaps and they hope that the City Council will rescind Emergency Order 2D. Cathedral City Page 12 Printed on 6/24/2020 George Saioc, stated that short-term rentals are far better than hotels and guests prefer an Airbnb to a hotel. He feels they also reduce unemployment rates. He urged the City Council to rescind Emergency 2D. Rob Hammersley, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that he is in support of reopening short-term vacation rentals in Cathedral City. He has never had an incident or complaint and cleans his home thoroughly. If the ban is extended, he would have to sell his property. He urged the City Council not to penalize short- term vacation rental owners who always have been and will continue to be compliant. David Purdue, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that he has owned his home for 4 years and has invested close to $200,000 to bring it up to an excellent short-term vacation standard. He screens all renters and has only had two complaints made in 4 years. He urged the City Council to lift Emergency Order 2D. Robert Magzanyan, Cathedral City, urged the City Council to consider the many benefits of short-term vacation rentals. He asked that the City Council rescind Emergency Order 2D immediately and allow short-term vacation rentals to operate within the safety guidelines set by the State and County. He also feels that the City should offer direct compensation to short-term rental licensees from the City's budget if the emergency order continues. He believes that we can all work together towards a reasonable solution. Ruth Grau,urged the City Council to follow the lead of California and Riverside County in opening up Cathedral City short-term rentals effective June 12, 2020. She stated that short-term renters do exactly the same things as long-term renters and residents, just for a shorter period of time. Spencer Pepe, short-term vacation rental owner, pleaded with the City Council to continue to support short-term vacation rentals. He feels that the tax revenue is an important part of the City's budget and short-term vacation rentals are the most viable solution to social distancing and the return of tourism. Sebastian De Kleer, Cathedral City, urged the City Council to allow short-term rentals again after June 24, 2020. He asked that the City Council not make any decisions based on a few bad apples and urged the Council to adopt sensible short-term legislation. Laura Gargas, short-term vacation rental owner, is in favor of opening short-term rentals in Cathedral City. She stated that investments and livelihoods count on it and urged the City Council to be fair. Nelli Arakelyan, Realtor and short-term vacation rental owner, stated that they purchased their property as a second home and an investment. He stated that he does not support banning short-term rental and feels it will devalue the properties in the City. He also feels that the Emergency Order should end and hopes the City Council will allow short-term vacation rentals to operate again to benefit all. Cathedral City Page 13 Printed on 6/24/2020 Keith Haarmeyer, short-term vacation rental owner, stated that Cathedral City needs to follow suit and reopen short-term vacation rentals in accordance with California State reopening requirements. He expressed his concern with the lack of responses from Council Members and stated that he would appreciate a response to his emails. He also stated that he is not just about "money, money, money"and as an owner he cares about his home, neighbors, and community. Antonio Lopez-Cochran, gave his support of hotels and vacation rentals reopening like bars and restaurants. He hopes that the City Council votes in favor of allowing these businesses to reopen safely. Terry Applegate, Cathedral City, stated that we are seeing the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Riverside County and feels keeping public health measures in place are imperative. She urged the City Council to keep these measures in place as well as consider a PSA campaign to educate the public on the need for these measures. There were two comments received in support of Cathedral City aligning with the State of California's reopening plan regarding hotel and travel. Mayor John Aguilar is in favor of allowing short-term lodging to re-open. Mayor Pro Tern Raymond Gregory is in favor of allowing short-term lodging to re- open Councilmember Mark Carnevale concurred with Mayor Pro Tern Gregory. Councilmember Rita Lamb thanked the Mayor for his comments. She feels that personal safety is paramount and agrees with the overview. She also feels that if there is a significant increase in cases, the City Council can take some emergency action to address it. Councilmember Ernesto Gutierrez agrees with the Council and believes that we should align with the State. M.O. 2020-84 A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Gregory and seconded by Councilmember Carnevale to rescind Emergency Order 2D., effective June 12, 2020. RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Raymond Gregory, Mayor Pro Tern SECONDER: Mark Carnevale, Councilmember AYES: Aguilar, Gregory, Carnevale, Gutierrez, Lamb 7. CLOSED SESSION ADJOURN Cathedral City Page 14 Printed on 6/24/2020