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Palm Desert Country Club Community Open Space Action Committee
March 11, 2019
From: eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org
Date: 3/11/19 8:17 AM (GMT-08:00)
To: barbarapdcc@gmail.com
Cc: rstendell@cityofpalmdesert.org
Subject: RE: Pdcc update
Hi Barbara,
 We have received building and grading plans for a single model unit on Kentucky Avenue, north of California Drive. We will not approve plans until the applicant has complied with the conditions of the project including: paying in-lieu affordable housing fees and formalizing an amendment to the operations and maintenance agreement.
 
Thanks,

Eric Ceja
Principal Planner
Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6384
eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org

March 10, 2019
Update From Barbara Powers Secretary Open Space Action Committee
pdcc_proposed_new_model.pdf

scroll down 3 attachments

March 7 2019
Palm Desert Country Club Update
update_-_palm_desert_country_club_project.pdf


August 25, 2018
Palm Desert City Council Meeting 8/23/2018
From Barbara Powers
After talking to Ryan Stendell it appears that different items are still missing from the applicant to the city such as financials, New maintenance agreement and final grading plans.
He has requested a meeting with our committee sometime soon when more information is available.
Attached for your review are completed agenda items for the City Council Meeting

osac1031.pdf
 
July 5, 2018

PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL, THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018 
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER ,73510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260 - 4:00 p.m.
Public Hearing Agenda Item 19 for the following:”
19.PUBLIC HEARINGS 
 A.
CONSIDERATION OF THE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES, ESTABLISHING SECTION 25.28.130 OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE – OPEN SPACE/RESIDENTIAL OVERLAY DISTRICT – AND APPLY SAID OVERLAY DISTRICT TO THREE PARCELS OF LAND AS THEY RELATE TO THE PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB PROJECT (APNs 637-190-021, 637-190-024, AND 637-190-027), AND ADOPT A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, Case No. ZOA 18-0003 (City of Palm Desert, Applicant). 

Staff Report attached below.
Any questions, concerns, please bring them to the meeting.
Barbara Powers, Secretary
Open Space Action Committee
.pd_staff_report-new_open_space_residential_zone.pdf

May 17, 2018
Hello Neighbors

City Council Meeting May 24, 2018 at 4:00 p.m.

Second Reading of Change of Zone PDCC Executive Course

Agenda Item 15-B Ordinances-Adoption
Ordinance No. 1337-An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California approving a Change of Zone Application to Rezone approximately 30 acres formerly operated as the Palm Desert Country Club Executive Course located at 77200 California, Case No. CZ16-280

When more information is available we will inform you.

Barbara Powers, Secretary


May 5, 2018
Hello Neighbors
Important!!!

Attached for your review is the City of Palm Desert’s City Attorney’s review of the Operation and Maintenance Agreement which was  required by the City Council at the April 26, 2018 City Council Meeting. This is quite an admission.

 Additionally is the enclosure of the PDCC’s attorney position on the documents.
 Please attend the City Council Public Hearing May 10, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. We need you there. Numbers count. STAND UP AND BE COUNTED!!!!!
 If you are unable to attend the hearing WE ENCOURAGE YOU to send an email with your Concerns, Thoughts, Question (etc.) to the  following regarding the Operation and Maintenance Agreement or any othe subject matter : 
laylaian@cityofpalmdesert.org
sjonathan@cityofpalmdesert.org
jharnik@cityofpalmdesert.org
sweber@cityofpalmdesert.org
.kkelly@cityofpalmdesert.org
gnestanda@cityofpalmdesert.org
openspaceaction@gmail.com

Your emails must be received by May 8, 2018.
Please request that your email be entered into the public record for: 
City Council Meeting May 10. 2018 agenda item 17 PP-CUP-EA-CZ 16-280 - McFadden Architets - PDCC (88122)
Thank you for your continued support.

Barbara Powers, Secretary
pdcc_attorney_letter.pdf
city_attorney_review_o_m_agreement021.pdf


May 3, 2018
Hello Neighbors!

WE NEED YOUR HELP!  We thank you for the act of trust you have placed in the Open Space Action Committee. Now we have come to you once again to ask for your help. The cause to Save Our Open Space needs you.

Throughout this process we have enlisted, tho, judiciously, the advice of a real estate attorney and now is the time we can most benefit from his advice and legal document to the City of Palm Desert.  Your contribution will provide the funds to achieve that benefit and help continue the cause to Save Our Open Space here in our community.

All donations are needed, welcome and appreciated.  Will you consider becoming a champion by making a non-deductible donation to:

Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St.  Ste A Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca. 92211

Time is running out and the City Council Public Hearing, May 10, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. maybe the last chance we have to make our case regarding the PDCC Proposed Development.  PLEASE ATTEND THE CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING.  NUMBERS COUNT.

Thank you for your continued support.
Barbara Powers, Secretary




April 28, 2018
Hello Neighbors!

Eric Ceja, Principal Planner for the Proposed PDCC Development Project asked the City Council to amend the original continuance of May 24, 2018 to May 10, 2018 for the Change of Zone Request, Precise Plan, Condition of Use and to appropriately respond to the Operation and Maintenance Agreement. CITY COUNCIL AGREED TO THE REQUEST.

New City Council Meeting for the PDCC Proposed Development:  MAY 10, 2018.

Kathleen Kelly, Councilwoman asked that notices of the new meeting date be sent to the affected property owners of the proposed development.

Kmir Local News did a video segment, "Palm Desert Executive Course Residents Furious Over Condo Plans" April 26, 2018 on their 6 p.m. news. For those of you who missed the segment the following link will take you to the written article.

kmir.com/2018/04/26/palm-desert-executive-golf-course-residents-furious-over-condo-plans/

Thank you to everyone who attended the April 26, 2018 City Council Meeting.  Your support has and continues to be very important.  Numbers count.

We will inform you when more information is available
Barbara Powers, Secretary


April 16, 2018
ATTENTION HOMEOWNERS ON THE EXECUTIVE COURSE OR any other homeowner in the PDCC Community!!!!!!

IN AN EFFORT TO SAVE OUR OPEN SPACE WE NEED YOUR HELP.  PLEASE READ AND CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING PROPOSAL.

A homeowner has proposed the following:
1.  The City would obtain ownership of the Open Space
2.  Landscape the property.
3.  Maintain the property.
4.  Devise a municipal bond to cover these costs.
5.  Propose an allocation scheme to recover these costs as an added line  item in the appropriate property tax bill. (Need figures            so our homeowners know how much it will cost them on their tax bill. 
6.  Get the required approval from the affected property owners.
7.  Issue the Municipal Bond. (Over 30 years ) 

Many more details were included.
WHAT IS REALLY NEEDED TO MAKE THIS WORK:

What we need from the City: Have an actuary study done on forming the Bond idea, just like they did for the 218 Lighting District with the Wilden Co.  Then let the homeowners vote as to whether they want to participate.

Please sign below if you would like to pursue this issue and ask the City to start a process to do an Actuary Study.

DROP A SIGNED COPY, INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS, IN MY LOCKED MAIL BOX, 76918 KENTUCKY AVE OR SEND YOUR APPROVAL OR DISAPPROVAL TO  barbarapdcc@gmail.com   NEED MORE INFORMATION CALL 760-777-0065.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!!!!!!!!!!!
PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT.
OPEN SPACE ACTION COMMITTEE  


April 9, 2018
Hello Neighbors and Friends

Attached for your information is a copy of the Operation and Maintenance Agreement and the Order Dismissing the Chapter 11 Case. Both of  these documents were a topic of discussion at the March 22, 2018 City Council Meeting. The City Council voted to continue the Public Hearing  for the Proposed Zone Change for the PDCC Executive Course until April 26, 2018 to provide time to determine the current status and validity of the documents.

What happens when your bankruptcy is dismissed? Your financial situation goes right back to where it was before you started the bankruptcy. You lose the protection of the automatic stay your bankruptcy provided and your creditors are free to come after you to collect their debts and you are now fair game for lawsuits, liens, and other things. 
Any questions you have regarding the documents should be directed to:
Laurie Aylaian, Palm Desert City Manager
73510 Fred Waring Dr.
Palm Desert, Ca. 92260
760-340-0574
laylaian@cityofpalmdesert.org
Copy should be sent to to each City Council Member: 
sjonathan@cityofpalmdesert.org
sweber@cityofpalmdesert.org
kkelly@cityofpalmdesert.org
jharnik@cityofpalmdesert.org
gnestande@cityofpalmdesert.org
and
openspaceaction@gmail.com
Please attend the April 26, 2018 City Council Public Hearing, your support is needed. Please share this with your neighbors and friends.
DOCUMENT ATTACHMENTS:
 pdcc_bandruptcy_gov.uscourts.cacb.1102156.95.0.pdf
operation_and_maintenance_agreement_-_doc__2005-0780948.pdf

Open Space Action Committee
​Barbara Powers, Secretary


March 28, 2018
Hello Neighbors

The City Council meeting on the 22nd had less attendance than prior meetings due to our place on the agenda.  The developer suggested this was a indication of change of attitude of the community in favor of their project.  We feel it is a change of attitude due to the City not protecting the rights of our community, snow birds returning home and Easter Vacation.

The Zone Change and Plans for the 69 condos has been continued to the Council Meeting April 26, 2018 to investigate documents that were presented by us and referred to the City Attorney.  We will post the agenda when available.

Questions about the continuance of the Operation and Maintenance Agreement from the Horton Homes Development that run with the land were asked.  The City Attorney stated that it was his opinion that these assurances were negated by the subsequent Bankruptcy, but the Council Members wanted additional research to be certain they had the authority to approve rezoning the property.  We know the Bankruptcy was dismissed and the golf course property was purchased by the current owner directly from Wilshire State Bank.

Members of the Council also wanted the developer to meet with several property owners about property lines where swimming pools or other facilities encroached on the golf course property.

Jan Harnik, Council Member stated maybe some Council Members should meet with property owners to review the actual property and view sheds.  If you want to follow up on that offer please write a letter to Council Members requesting such a meeting or other questions or concerns you may have.  Their address can be found on the City's web site:
www.cityofpalmdesert.org/our-city/mayor-and-city-council-/meet-your-representatives
There were many objections to any zone change or any construction.

We were cut off at 3 minutes of speech. The applicant and owner, Moe Sihota were allowed to speak over 30 minutes.  We were not allowed to argue any of their statements that were misleading. We asked for a new traffic study and their was no discussion.

The revised tract maps have to go to the Planning Commission for review and approval, we will keep you posted.

We are continuing our research on the project to determine our future action, we will keep you posted.

Donations to our committee are always welcome and appreciated. Please send to :
OPEN SPACE ACTION COMMITTEE
42215 WASHINGTON ST.  STE A  BOX 237
PALM DESERT, CA.  92211


Thank you for your continued support.
Barbara Powers, Secretary

March 17, 2018
Hello Neighbors
REMINDER:  LAST CHANCE FOR THE PALM DESERT CC EXECUTIVE COURSE-NO ZONE CHANGE!
The City Council Public Hearing to approve the 69 Condo Project and Zone Change will be held March 22, 2018 at 4:00 pm, City Hall.
We need to fill the audience with property owners, neighbors and friends who are objecting to the project.
Even though This Meeting starts at 4:00 p.m., the PDCC Proposed Development Public Hearing is the last item on the agenda.  If you can't be there at 4:00 p.m. you still have plenty of time to be a part of this IMPORTANT HEARING.  The doors will still be open for you.  This hearing will affect our whole community, quality of life and Open Space Forever.  PLEASE SHARE THIS UPDATE WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS.
We need all 300 directly affected property owners to please attend this meeting.  Open Space is a precious commodity and once built on it is lost forever.  To re-purpose the Executive Course to a development of 69 condos will erase 57 years of PDCC History and without the history there is no future.  PLEASE SHARE THIS UPDATE WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS.
Thank you to everyone who responded to our update of February 28, 2018, Review/Respond.  Your responses were hand delivered to the City of Palm Desert and recorded in the agenda attachment "Correspondence" for this hearing.  You can review the attachment at the link provided below.  Go to item #19. Very slow loading!!! All the correspondence received by the City since the December 19,2018 Planning Commission is in this file.                                                                                                                             Thank you for your continued support and we will see you at the meeting.
Barbara Powers, Secretary  

cityofpalmdesert.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=225

March 2, 2018
The City Council Meeting for the PDCC Proposed Executive Course Development has been scheduled for March 22, 2018 at 4:00 pm at the City Hall Council Chambers. The public comment period for this project is March2, 2018 to March 22, 2018. Your comments should be sent and received by the City Council on or before March 22, 2018. Please attend the City Council Hearing, we need your help to fight to save our open space and quality of life..


Notices of this hearing have been mailed to all 300 residents who are directly affected by the proposed Zone Change.
We need all 300 of you to please attend this meeting and help us save our open space and quality of life.  Open Space is a precious commodity and once built on it is lost forever. To repurpose the Executive
Course to a development of 69 condos will erase 57 years of PDCC history, and without the history there is no future.

The final Tract Maps and Grading plans will be available for viewing on March 10, 2018 from 1 pm to 3 pm at 76918 Kentucky Ave, PDCC, provided by the Open Space Action Committee.



City Council Public Hearing Procedures:
  • Speaking at the Council Meeting --  in order to speak at a City Council Meeting, including Public Hearing items, filling out a blue Speaker Card is recommended but not required.  The Speaker Cards let the City Council know how many speakers want to come forward on any item on the agenda, including Public Hearing items.  It is also helpful to the City Clerk’s Department for preparing minutes after the meeting for spelling of speakers’ names, and if a staff member wants to get in touch with a speaker after the meeting about an issue that was raised, we have the contact information.
  • Speaker Cards -- are typically not filled out in advance of the meeting day – they are picked up in the foyer of the Council Chamber on the day of the meeting, filled out, and handed to the City Clerk in the 10-15 minutes before the meeting is convened or during the meeting for delivery to the Mayor so that he knows there are speakers for an item. 
  • Supporting Documents – You may either provide documents related to your thoughts on an agenda item for the record in advance of the meeting to be distributed to Councilmembers OR at the time you speak.  No matter If they are provided before or at the meeting, specifically for a Public Hearing matter, they are made part of the record for that item.  Public Hearings are unique in that if a member of the public is opposing a case and chooses to litigate it, all points raised in their litigation must have been raised as part of the Public Hearing process.
  • To Speak or Not To Speak at the Public Hearing – You may always express your views (and, I might add, not be bound by the 3-minute time constraint) by writing to the Councilmembers.  Additionally, by providing your views to City Council for an agenda item in advance of the actual meeting (at or near the time the agenda is posted), they have sufficient time to digest your information and apply it to the matter at hand.  You do not have to provide an oral presentation of your views.  Or you may do both – write to the City Council in advance of the meeting/public hearing and speak at the meeting to emphasize the salient points of your written testimony.
  
 Thank you for your continued support
Barbara Powers, Secretary
Thank you for your support
Open Space Action Committee
openspaceaction@gmail.com




Hello Neighbors
Attached for your review are the minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting December 19, 2018.. Scroll down to page 5.
We are still awaiting a hearing date for the City Council Meeting.,
planningcommissionminutesdecember192018.pdf

January 24, 2018
Hello Neighbors
Attached for your review is a letter sent by our committee to the City of Palm Desert Officials regarding the Approval of Planning Commission Resolution 2715 on December 19, 2017.
letter_to_city_council_tract_maps.pdf


December 20,2017

December 19,2017 City of Palm Desert Planning Commission voted 4-1 to move the Proposed Development of the Former Executive Course forward to the City Council for consideration.  There will be more meetings scheduled.

Thank you to everyone who attended the meeting, your support for fighting to save our quality of life and open space is so appreciated.

We will keep you informed as new information becomes available.

Attached for your review is the letter that was included in the City of Palm Desert's Planning Dept. Staff Report dated December 19, 2017.  PDCC Homeowner's Assoc. Settles Differences with PDCC Ownership.  Our update mailed to you dated December 8, 2017, was a release of information that was our understanding,  was provided by Ron Crisp, President of PDCC HOA regarding the settlement.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!
pdccasettleswithpdcc_.pdf
Barbara Powers, Secretary

December 19, 2017
PDCC Homeowner's Assoc. settles differences with PDCC Ownership
pdccasettleswithpdcc_.pdf
This letter was posted in the City of Palm Desert Planning Dept Staff Report
dated December 19,2017


December18,2017

From: Barbara powersSent: Saturday, December 16, 2017 7:31 PM
To: Stendell, Ryan; Ceja, Eric; Sabby Jonathan
Subject: STAFF REPORT AND DECEMBER 19, 2017 PLANNING MEETING.
 
WE ARE ASKING THAT YOU POSTPONE THIS MEETING/ OR SCHEDULE IT AT A LATER DATE.
 
For one solid week we were trying to get a report and only last night at 5pm was the report
available.  165 pages is a lot to consume.   There are many errors and I am only on the first
few pages.  It is also a very bad time to schedule this meeting as probably half of our residents
are gone for the holiday.    I have been getting many emails that state they can't come because they
are out of town.  Hopefully they are sending you their objections.
 
EVEN IF YOU READ IT ASK FOR A 1ST READING AND GIVE US TIME TO CHECK THE REPORT OUT  AND 
SCHEDULE AN OTHER MEETING. 
 
Barb Powers, Secretary for Open Space.
 
Barbara Powers

RESPONSE:
From: eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org
Date: 12/18/17 11:07 AM (GMT-08:00)
To: gourdpower@msn.com, rstendell@cityofpalmdesert.org, sabby@jonathanandassociates.com
Subject: RE: STAFF REPORT AND DECEMBER 19, 2017 PLANNING MEETING.

Hi Barbara,
 
Thank you for your comments below. This project is following our normal City process and is moving forward to a regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting. We have received a number of letters from the community and those letters are provided to our Commissioners. The Planning Commission is only making a recommendation to the City Council and tomorrow’s meeting is tomorrow’s hearing is not the final determination for this project. Other public hearings will also occur next year.
 Thanks,
Eric Ceja
Principal Planner
Ph: 760.346.0611  Direct: 760.776.6384
eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org
December 16, 2017
Hello Neighbors
The City of Palm Desert Planning Dept. has posted their Staff Report, Medigated Negative Declaration and Proposed Resolutions for the Planning Commission Hearing December 19, 2017.
This link should take you direct to the staff report, followed by draft resolutions and MND.

eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fcityofpalmdesert.granicus.com%2FMetaViewer.php%3Fview_id%3D3%26clip_id%3D331%26meta_id%3D63377&data=02%7C01%7C%7Cc5f50398f2eb4ecc2e2c08d5449822e7%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C636490342563832033&sdata=jLSQIkfJivKGJFQm4YtSXokEq6DT5yaO50tUriUwQuo%3D&reserved=0
This is a very long report, give it time to load.                                     
 
Please attend the Planning Commission Hearing December 19, 2017  we need your help to fight to save our open space and quality of life.

Thank you for your continued support.

Barbara powers, Secretary
December 15, 2017
Just a reminder about the Planning Commission Public Hearing for the Proposed Development of the Former Executive Course. Scroll all the way down.
Please attend this hearing and help us fight to save our Open Space and our quality of life.CITY OF PALM DESERT

REGULAR MEETING OF THE

PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017 – 6:00 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBER
73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260

Listed Agenda Item for Hearing:
C. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of a recommendation to the City Council to rezone three parcels from Open Space (OS) to Mixed Residential (R-2) and approve Tentative Tract Maps 37240, 37241, and 37242 for the construction of 69 condominium units on approximately 30 acres located on the former executive golf course at Palm Desert Country Club; and adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Case Nos. CZ/PP/CUP/EA 16-280 and TTM 37240, 37241, & 37242 (McFadden Architects, Palm Desert, California, Applicant).

Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. 2715, recommending to the City Council approval of Case Nos. CZ/PP/CUP/EA 16-280 and TTM 37240, 37241, & 37242
December 5, 2017
Hello Neighbors!

It is our understanding that Ron Crisp, President of the PDCC Homeowner's Association released the following information:

The PDCC HOA is going to remain Neutral on the Former Executive Course Proposed Development.

The PDCC HOA Board and their attorney have negotiated a signed notarized contract with the Owners of the PDCC Golf Course that the 18 golf course would remain in OPEN SPACE PERPETUITY for some of their members (Tract 2283 abutting the Championship Course). This contract is VALID if the owners of the golf course are allowed to build condominiums on the PDCC Former Executive Course.

If the owners are NOT ALLOWED to build condominiums on the Former Executive Course the notarized contract is VOID.

Mr. Crisp stated " that he and certain members of the HOA Board were expressly prohibited from voicing their personal opinions on the project.  They can only voice the HOA Board's decision to remain NEUTRAL on the development."

Questions:  Does Negotiating and signing a notarized contract with the PDCC Ownership for some of their members on the PDCC Championship Course, Tract 2283, in effect ABANDON their members whose property abuts the Former Executive Course?

Have those members been treated fairly? 

Have those members been given an opportunity to express their rights and opinions on the matter? 

Does the PDCC Homeowner's Board of Directors have the fiduciary authority in their association by-laws to make this type of decision without input from their members?.  

Does this contract that the PDCC HOA Board signed indicate that the PDCC HOA Board is in fact favoring the project and their NETURAL attitude is a smokescreen? 

As more information becomes available we will inform you.
Thank you for your continued support.

Open Space Action Committee

openspaceaction@gmail.com
openspaceaction.com

November 30, 2017
 
Hello Neighbors
The City of Palm Desert Planning Commission Public Hearing for the PDCC Former Executive Course has been scheduled for December 19, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. at the City of Palm Desert.

Those property owners within 300 ft. of the proposed development should receive a mailed notice from the City of Palm Desert regarding the Legal Notice.

A copy of the Public Hearing Notice that was posted in the Desert Sun on
November 30, 2017 is attached.

Our voices and attending the public hearings are our most powerful
political tools.  You simply have to speak up and attend if you disagree, it is the most important thing you can do as a citizen.

We will continue to update all of you as information becomes available.

Thank you for your continued support.
 Powers, Secretary
planningcommissionpublichearinpdcc.pdf
Barbara Powers, Secretary

September 25.2017

Hello Neighbors!
Finally!  The July 25, 2017 ARC Minutes were approved and posted with regard to the PDCC Executive Course Development.
They are attached for your review.
When we have additional information we will advise you.
Thank you for your support.
Barbara Powers, Secretary
arcmeetingminutesjuly25.2017.pdf
August 10,2017

Hello Neighbors!
Below is a copy of an email we received today regarding the scheduling of the Planning Commission Public Hearing regarding the Proposed PDCC Development Executive Course:
From: eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org

Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 11:43 AM
Subject: RE: PLANNING COMMITTEE HEARING DATE
To: gourdpower@msn.com, rstendell@cityofpalmdesert.org

Hi Barbara, 

We are not scheduling public hearings for PDCC until October. 
Thanks, 
Eric Ceja

Principal Planner
Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6384
eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org

July 19, 2017
Hello Neighbors:
We just received the Staff Report for the Architectural Review Commission Meeting 7/25/2017, City of Palm Desert, City Hall, Council Chambers
Please review and any concern you have please submit to the ARC before the scheduled meeting:
Architectural Review Commission.  Copy of the Staff Report was attached to our 7/19/2017 email update.
City Hall
73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, Ca. 92260

Thank you for your continued support.  We need you at this meeting!

Barbara Powers, Secretary


            
July 17, 2017
 
Hello Neighbors! Palm Desert Country Club owners have returned the "Required Study Results and Modification Revisions for their proposed development  to the Palm Desert Planning Dept., per Eric Ceja, Principal Planner. The results are scheduled for review as follows: 

Architectural Review Commission: JULY 25, 2017 AT 12:30 p.m. PD City Hall, Council Chambers. 
At this time there is NO Planning Staff Report available.
In review of the recent submitted plans there appears to be only minor changes to the original Development Plan.  The most recent  changes are additions of Site Plan Graphics and Entry Exhibits Graphics which are posted on their website.     http://www.cityofpalmdesert.org/our-city/departments/planning/palm-desert-country-club-executive-course 

Please submit any concerns you have to the ARC prior to the scheduled meeting:
Architectural Review Commission

   City Hall
   73510 Fred Waring Drive
   Palm Desert, CA 92260
Do to the extreme heat/humidity our city is experiencing, the normal flyers we hand out for the scheduled meeting will not be done.  Please share this message with your neighbors and friends. 

We need you at this commission review, it is very important! 
Thank you for your continued support.  Barbara Powers, Secretary 
          
UpdateJune 15,2017
Hello Neighbors:
Attached for your review are the approved minutes from the Architectural Review Commission Meeting held May 23, 2017 posted  June 14, 2017. Begins on page 3.
arc_minutesmay_232017.pdf

“Commissioner Lambell told the residents that it is incumbment upon the homeowner to make their concerns know to Staff prior to  the next meeting so this can be reviewed thoroughly by the Commission. Commissioner Levin told the residents to do their homework  by meeting with Staff to find answers to their questions prior to the next meeting”. 

Staff should have the latest modifications to the PDCC Development since the May 23, 2017 ARC meeting.                                  Staff contact: Eric Ceja, City of Palm Desert, Principal Planner, PDCC Development Project.
eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org
Eric Ceja: 760-346-0611 \
ADDITIONALLY IMPORTANT TO SEND CONCERNS TO:                            Architectural Review Commission, Planning Commission and City Council
Mail To:
City of Palm Desert
73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, Ca.  92260
Reminder::Open Space Action Committee Update May 30, 2016
We received a phone call from Chuck Shepardson, the Landscape Architect. HE REQUESTED THAT NO ONE CALL HIM REGARDING  MEETING WITH HIM TO PICK OUT TREES OR BUSHES FOR THE PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB EXECUTIVE COURSE PROJECT. 
Contrary to his statement at the ARC Committee Meeting May 23, 2017 and advice of the ARC Commission, he now states "He would  meet with homeowners if the project is approved".
We will inform you when new information is available regarding the next ARC meeting.
Thank you for your continued support
Barbara Powers, Secretary
 May 30, 2017
Hello Neighbors!
We received a phone call from Chuck Shepardson, the Landscape Architect. HE REQUESTED THAT NO ONE CALL HIM REGARDING MEETING WITH HIM TO PICK OUT TREES OR BUSHES FOR THE PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB EXECUTIVE COURSE PROJECT.

Contrary to his statement at the ARC Committee Meeting May 23, 2017, he now states "He would meet with homeowners if the project is approved".

We will keep you updated.

Thank you,
Barbara Powers,
Secretary, Open Space Action Committee  



May25, 2017
Hello Neighbors!

The modifications requested by the ARC at the March 14,2017 meeting were considered inadequate, the ARC returned the project to the applicant for additional study and modifications.  The results will be provided to the ARC at a future date.  We will notify you when more information regarding that date is available.

Through your efforts in participating at the meetings together with your communications (email, written letters and phone calls) and continuing support has helped enormously in preventing the PDCC Proposed Development moving forward.  Thank you so much and we still NEED YOU!

The Architect for the PDCC project offered to meet individually with residents to establish how their property will be affected.  You may reach Chris McFadden, Architect for PDCC at 75145 ST. Charles Pl. #4, Palm Desert.  His phone number is 760-340-8014,

The Landscape Designer also said he will be happy to meet with home owners for placement of trees and their choice from a list of trees.  His name is Chuck Shepardson of HSA Design Group, 42635 Melanie Pl., Palm Desert, phone number 760-341-1515.

OVER THE SUMMER, PLEASE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE ABOVE OFFERS.  Any problems scheduling or holding these meetings please notify the Open Space Action Committee in writing.

As presented at the meeting ABRAHAM LINCOLN ONCE SAID, "PUBLIC SENTIMENT IS EVERYTHING, WITH PUBLIC SENTIMENT YOU CAN'T FAIL; WITHOUT IT YOU CAN'T SUCCEED.  THE ONLY WAY TO MEASURE PUBLIC SENTIMENT IS TO VOTE.
Barbara Powers, Secretary
Open Space Action Committee

May 5,2017
Update on Palm Desert Country Club’s Zone Change/Building Project
 Eric Ceja, Head Planner for the project stated that the grading plans were
Returned to the City , however they were sent back to the developer/with comments.
They are not listed on the Architectural Committee’s Agenda For 5-9-2017.
 Barbara Powers

Secretary, OPEN SPACE ACTION COMMITTEE 
April 15, 2017
Copy of letter sent to the Palm Desert Country Club Homeowner's Association
President Ron Crisp.

Dear Mr. Crisp
The Open Space Action Committee is providing the Board of Directors with about 500 pages of documentation from the members of the PDCC Homeowner's Association indicating they are opposed to residential construction of any kind or anything else non-golf related constructed on the Executive or Championship courses of the 27 hole Palm Desert Country Club Golf Course.

We hope this will be beneficial in supporting your membership's position in opposing the proposed development on the Executive Course and will allow the Board to take a Public Position in Opposition to any proposed development on the 27 holes of the Palm Desert Country Club Golf Course.

Your response to this request, as soon as possible, would be greatly appreciated.

Pending your answer we remain,
Barbara Powers, Serena Illk, Cindy Stevenson and Sara Adamson

Attachments:
Signed Protest Petitions
Emails-Strong Opposition
Letters/Statements-Strong Opposition
Objections-To the Proposed Development

Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St.  Ste. A  Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca. 92211  
April 10, 2017
Subject: Open Space Action Committee-URGENT

ALL PROPERTY OWNER'S IN THE PDCC COMMUNITY:

PUBLIC MEETING
HOSTED BY:
PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB HOME OWNER'S ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WHEN:     APRIL 18,2017
WHERE:  77-800 CALIFORNIA DR.
                PALM DESERT, CA.
TIME:      6:00 P.M.

PURPOSE:  TO MAKE YOUR VOICES AND CONCERNS HEARD REGARDING ANY RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION OF ANY KIND OR ANYTHING ELSE NON-GOLF RELATED CONSTRUCTED ON THE PDCC EXECUTIVE/CHAMPIONSHIP COURSES.

IT IS ABSOLUTELY CRUCIAL THAT OPINIONS/CONCERNS ARE AIRED BECAUSE IT WILL SERVE AS A GREAT DEAL OF INFLUENCE ON THE PDCC HOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

MANY OF OUR SEASONAL RESIDENTS HAVE RETURNED TO THEIR HOMES, SO IT IS CRITICAL(EVEN IF YOU HAVE SIGNED ONE OF OUR PETITIONS) THAT THOSE OF US WHO REMAIN IN THE PDCC COMMUNITY ATTEND WITH OUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS.

YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE A MEMBER OF THE PDCC HOA TO ATTEND THIS MEETING.

PLEASE CALL/SHARE THIS NOTIFICATION WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

BARBARA POWERS, SECRETARY




April 7, 2017
PDCC Proposed Development is NOT on the ARC agenda for 4/11/17.
No plans have been resubmitted. April 28th or early May would be the next opportunity for an ARC hearing.
We will notify you by email or flyer when we confirm the next meeting date.
We need you all there.!
Thank you for you continued support.
Please share this update with your neighbors and friends.
Barbara Powers, Secretary

March 25, 2016
Hello Neighbors!
The Palm Desert CC Proposed Development is not on the agenda for the Architectural Review Committee Meeting 3/28/17. Tentative new date is
4/11/17, we will confirm and let everyone know.

March 16, 2016


Hello Neighbors!
The Architectural Review Commission(ARC) meeting held March 14, 2017 ended with the Committee voting 5-0 sending the PDCC plans back to their architect for suggested improvements.

Those included a discussion of roads being to close to existing home, fences, structure heights and many more significant items.

We will notify everyone when the updated plans have been returned and posted to the City's website.

http://www.cityofpalmdesert.org/our-city/departments/planning/palm-desert-country-club-executive-course

Thanks to all of you who attended the meeting. 

The next ARC meeting is scheduled for March 28, 2017.  We will confirm this meeting date by posting to our website, emails and flyers. WE NEED YOU THERE!

YOU STILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK AT THIS MEETING, COMMENTS SHOULD RELATE TO ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPING ONLY.


PLEASE SHARE THIS NOTICE WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS.

Barbara Powers
Secretary, Open Space Action Committee

openspaceaction@gmail.com
www.openspaceaction.com





March 4, 2014
Hello Neighbors
Committee would like to thank everyone that came to the Architectural Committee Meeting at the Palm Desert City Hall.  Your presence had an enormous IMPACT!
Everyone that wanted to got to express how they felt about the plans of the homes and the Landscaping Plans.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MEETING:
.Chris (Architect) for the developer stated one of the retention areas maybe 4 feet deep.  It was questioned on how they would mow the area.  Chris stated they would leave an area path to the retention area to mow.  Most all of the retention areas (30 plus) will be planted with Tiff Bermuda Grass.
.The Architectural Committee questioned whether the road was too close to home owners properties.
.The was a discussion of the elevation of the condos in relation to the existing homes.
.The developers were unsure about the 5foot giveaway to the homeowners, said to be in discussion.
.There were comments from the Architectural Committee regarding the wrought iron fences, the size of the post and possibility of a solid fence.
.It was announced by the city that there will be not gated areas for the project.
.There was some questions regarding the actual drawings of the units and the landscaping around the buildings and pool areas.
There are many questions left to be answered by the Developer, so the Architectural Committee voted to return the plans to the Developer's Architect for revisions, which will require another review by the Architectural Review Commission before this proposed project is sent to the Planning Commission.

WHEN WILL THE NEXT Architectural Meeting be held?
Staff at the City said it might take more than 15 days for the Developers Architect to revise the plans. Therefore,  the next meeting could be held on March 28, 2017 at 12:30 p.m.
Our committee will notify everyone by posting on our website, flyers and by our email base, as soon as we know.
WE MUST STOP THEM FROM GETTING A ZONE CHANGE.  NO ZONE CHANGE, NO BUILDING!
We are in the fund raising mode again.  If you can help with a donation it would be appreciated.  Every donation has an impact on our effort and ensures we will be able to continue.  We are going to need a continued level of strong support.  Please send your donation today to:

Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St.  Ste. A  Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca.  92211

Feel free to submit any suggestions to the committee, or if you want to volunteer to hand out flyers for the next 3 meetings send us an email.
Please share this update with your neighbors and friends.                                                                    Thank you for your continued support.
Barbara Powers, Secretary, Open Space Action Committee

openspaceaction@gmail.com
openspaceaction.com  

February 17, 2017
ATTENTION

The City of Palm Desert has received applications for the development of 69 condominium units on 30 acres formerly occupied by the Palm Desert Country Club Executive Course.
All property owners located within 300 feet of the proposed project boundaries will be notified of the public hearings
PUBLIC MEETING:
- Architectural Review Commission – February 28, 2017 12:30 in City Council Chambers 
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
- 
Planning Commission – April 4, 2017 (TENTATIVE)
- 
City Council – April 27, 2017 (TENTATIVE) 


February 3, 2017
WE NEED YOUR HELP!

PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB RESIDENTS:

On February 28, 2017 at 12:30 p.m. The City of Palm Desert, Architectural Review Commission is holding a hearing to approve 69 Condo's to be built on the Executive Course.

PLEASE COME AND TELL THEM WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT THE PROJECT! Your appearance at this meeting is extremely important.

Meeting to be held at:
City of Palm Desert Council Chambers
73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260


Architectural Review Commission reviews the building design and landscaping of all commercial and multiple dwellings to assure compatibility with the City's long-range objectives of being a community of quality, broad vistas, and taste.  As of May 2012 also reviews and makes recommendations for the landscape elements of any given project, assuming responsibilities formerly performed by the Landscape Beautification Committee. 

When more information is available we will notify you.
Please share this information with your friends and neighbors.

Thank you for your continued support,
Open Space Action Committee
Barbara Powers, Secretary
openspaceaction@gmail.com
http://www.openspaceaction.com
January 17, 2017
Hello Neighbors
We have attached the latest update(see below) we have received from the city regarding the PDCC proposed development of the former Executive Course. 
When more information is available we will inform you.
Open Space Action Committee
Barbara Powers
Hi Barbara, 
 Attached is the Traffic Impact Analysis for the PDCC proposal. In addition, attached a memo from the City’s traffic engineer agreeing with the findings of the report and that there are no significant impacts related to traffic. 
 Thanks,
Eric Ceja, Principal Planner
Community Development Department
eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org
P: (760) 346-0611 F: (760) 776-6417
mma-16-001_pdcc_tia_2016-11-29.pdf
pdcc_traffic_study_city_acceptance__12.30.16_.pdf
December 20, 2016
Hello Neighbors-
Proposed Zone Change Request Update:
The following questions were submitted to Eric Ceja, Principal Planner,Community Development Department, City of Palm Desert on December 13, 2016.  Mr. Ceja's  response follows the questions:
Has PDCC been advised that they will need to complete a survey of the former executive course and identify any improvements that cross property lines? If so, has a deadline for the survey been given?
Will the survey include all 27 holes of the PDCC golf course?  PDCC has stated "there are encroachments all over the golf course" not to single out just the property owners abutting the former executive course.
Has the 5ft Dedication Proposal been written that might be offered to the property owners?  If so, may we have a copy?
You stated that the public hearings are not anticipated for several months, April/June.  Will you be adjusting that time frame?  This is not a fair time for the homeowners of PDCC Community, as many of our seasonal residents will be gone.
It is my understanding that Wilf Weintrauf, General Manager of PDCC initiated a conversation with a member of the Open Space Action Committee Board.  Mr. Weintrauf stated "I want you to know that the 5ft Dedication Proposal was not PDCC's idea it was the city's.  Trying to confirm the accuracy of Mr. Weintrauf's statement.
Eric Ceja's Response:"Yes, Pdcc has completed a survey of the executive course and that survey was incorporated into the maps and grading plans.  Those plans will be placed on the City's website soon.  Since the project does not involve the full course we are not requiring them to survey that area.  Looking through the map there are some properties, definitely not all that have improvements on the wrong side of the property line.  The 5ft Dedication is not in writing and is something PDCC has proposed to the City.  The City did not initiate the 5 foot dedication proposal.  We continue to discuss this 5ft dedication with PDCC, including not doing it, removing other owners improvements, building the wall just off the property line,or establishing an easement rather than dedication, etc.

We are look at the time frame and understand that with many seasonal residents, we will need to find an appropriate time for public hearings.  It could be earlier if the plans are ready or it will have to wait to next season".
Thanks,

Eric Ceja Principal Plannereceja@cityof palmdesert.org

Maps and Grading Plans:
www.cityofpalmdesert.org/our-city/departments/planning/palm-desert-country-club-executive-course

We will inform you when more information is available.
Thank you for your continuing  support.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Open Space Action Committee
November 24, 2016
What you should know!

 5 Ft. Property Dedication:

Upon further checking, that if any homeowner accepts the 5ft property dedication, that would be an expressed approval of contract,  that the homeowner agrees to the zone change, building or anything in their application.

 Please share this with your friends and neighbors.
 Open Space Action Committee,

Barbara Powers, Secretary
November 20.2016
We would like to express our gratitude to those who have financially supported this important effort against the Proposed PDCC  Development. Every donation has an impact on our effort and ensures we will be able to continue. We are going to need a continued  level of strong support. Please send your donation today to:

Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St. Ste A Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca.  92211
 
UPDATE:
PDCC Former Executive Course Development proposes a 5ft PROPERTY DEDICATION for all property owners abutting the Former  Executive Course. The 5ft Dedication would be from adjacent property lines in toward the Development. The purpose of this  Dedication is to offset any improvements that cross property lines. Property owners are suppose to be given a choice to accept  or not accept.
What you should consider if offered:
If you accept it could “trigger a reassessment of the property and payment of additional property taxes.”
What you should know:
5ft property line on the development side would have a 2ft or a 2ft-6ft retaining wall, depending on which side of the Former Executive Course your property is on. 2ft retaining wall proposes an  addition of wrought iron fencing. 
“PDCC has not identified any individual properties that encroach into the Former Executive Course.”
“PDCC will need to complete a survey of the former executive course and identify any improvements that cross property lines” and  that has not been done as of this writing.”The plans for the development displayed on the City of Palm Desert Planning Dept.  website include the 5ft dedication.
If the Dedicated 5ft. proposal is offered and no property owners accept, “in no case, shall the 5ft dedication be abandoned  someone will own it and be responsible for it.”
Any concerns you may have contact Eric Ceja at: eceja@cityof palmdesert.org 
Retention Basins: There are many retention basins proposed for the development. A retention basin is used to manage storm  water runoff to prevent flooding and downstream erosion. Retention Basins are designed to draw down water within 48 hours.  Some are designed to pump water out of the basin and some are designed for the water to percolate into the ground. The  proposed Retention Basins are to percolate into the ground. 
“Do retention basins affect property value? It's a six of one 1/2 dozen of the other question. First question that comes to mind would  be why are they there? Same would apply to selling your home.  How many HOAs lack the money to maintain those? And what  happens when they aren’t maintained?”

”Retention Basins require regular maintenance. Overpopulation of mosquitoes may occur in retention basins that are not  functioning properly and are not maintained. Insects, rodents and other wind blown debris may accumulate if not maintained.”
Review the proposed plans and see where your property is in relationship to the proposed Retention Basins.
 
“Condo Heights: The building styling has an abundant lower 12 ft. high building massing at the flat roof parapets to compliment  the older Ranch / Bungalow style homes common in PDCC and have also introduced a few vertical features and pitched roof  elements that give these bungalows a more modern contemporary flair”. 
What they haven’t said is that the addition of the vertical features/pitched roof elements increase the condo height to maximum  height of 18.4ft.
 
Eric Ceja, City of PD Project Manager’s Update
“The City has completed a 30-day review of the project and has determined the application incomplete and we have requested additional information from  the developer’s team. We will be meeting with them in the coming weeks to discuss those items. As we posted on the website,  we take this proposal and the communities input very seriously. We anticipate a thorough review of the proposal and as such  public hearings are not anticipated for several months (maybe beginning in April/June). 
A Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) has been submitted and is in review with the City Engineer. 
The City manages the storm water system and retention areas are not pumped into the sewer or onto City streets.
Retention basins are designed to draw down within 48 hrs and should not create a rodent situation. There are hundreds of retention  basins in the Coachella Valley and I am unaware that any of them have this issue”. 
Any concerns regarding the PDCC proposed development please direct them to Eric Ceja at: eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org 
 
“The public hearings are not anticipated for several months, maybe April/June.” This is not a fair time for the residents of PDCC  Community. Our Seasonal Residents have returned home.
Any concerns direct them to Eric Ceja at: eceja@cityof palmdesert.org 
There are 385 property owners in the identified 300 ft .boundary that will be directly affected by this development. These properties  includes the streets of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Tennessee, Utah Circle, Indiana, California, Illinois, Kentucky, Oklahoma,  Oregon Circle. 
Are you directly affected by this development and belong to the PDCC Homeowners Association? Have you contacted the HOA  for their support ? 
This proposed development affects the entire future of PDCC Community. There are 1024 property owners in PDCC that belong  to the PDCC Homeowners Association. Have you contacted the HOA for their support?
Any concerns regarding the PDCC proposed development please direct them to Eric Ceja at: eceja@cityof palmdesert.org 
There are many of our neighbors who don’t have email access, Please share this update with your neighbors and friends.
Attached is our petition to allow all PDCC property owners a opportunity to voice their opinion in opposition to the proposed  development on the Former Executive Course. Thank you to those who have previously signed the petition. Please share our petition with any  PDCC property owner who hasn’t signed one, ask them to sign and return to:
Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St.  STE A Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca.  92211
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS!
Thank you for your continued support, when more information is available we will inform you.
OPEN SPACE ACTION COMMITTEE
Barbara Powers, Secretary
 
November2, 2016
Palm Desert Country Club Executive Course
The City of Palm Desert has received applications for the development of 69 condominium units on 30 acres formerly occupied by the Palm Desert Country Club Executive Course. These applications include a precise plan, conditional use permit, tentative tract map, and environmental assessment. Copies of the development proposal are available on the City’s website and are available at the City’s Community Development Department. Public hearings will be scheduled with the City’s Architectural Review Commission, Planning Commission, and the City Council prior to any new development. All property owners located within 300 feet of the proposed project boundaries will be notified of the public hearings. Based on the applications and the hearing schedule, staff anticipates that public hearings will begin in mid-2017.   www.cityofpalmdesert.org/our-city/departments/planning/palm-desert-country-club-executive-course

October 28, 2016
Hello Neighbors
The PDCC ownership proposed development plan includes a 5ft property dedication to adjacent property owners rear property line abutting the Executive Course.
Many questions and concerns have surfaced with regard to this proposal.
Our committee contacted the Palm Desert Community Development Dept., Eric Ceja, Principal Planner for the PDCC proposed development, his response is below:
"Hi Barbara
I apologize as it has taken me far to long to respond to your email.  We are looking into the 5ft dedication that the developer has proposed.  I don't see how, if an adjacent property owner refuses the 5ft, that they can give it to them.  By receiving additional property it may also trigger a reassessment of the property and payment of additional taxes.  In no case, shall the 5 feet be abandoned.  Someone will own it and be responsible for it. 
The 5 feet dedication is by no means a certainty.  Because of the issues presented in these emails serious consideration regarding the proposal is being given.  Please let me know if you have any questions.  We hope to have information available on the City's website next week".
Thanks,
Eric Ceja
Community Development Department
eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org
760-346-0611
We will keep you informed as more information is available.
Donations are welcomed and appreciated
Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St  Ste A  Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca  92211

Barbara Powers, Secretary-Open Space Action Committee

October 15, 2016
Hello Neighbors!

RESIDENTS HAVE RIGHTS!

Residents have rights and the rights of residents are just as powerful as Human Rights or the Bill of Rights.  The people are the city, "Not the laws, Not the bureaucracy".  The people need to remind the representatives and officials who they work for, but more importantly to remind all residents of the power they hold.

The PDCC proposed development is a planned development without regard to it's surrounding designations.  That's a bad thing, not a good thing and that is something that has to be stopped.  The primary purpose of zoning is to segregate uses that are thought to be incompatible.  In practice, zoning also is used to prevent new development from interfering with existing uses and/or to preserve the "character of a community".  The city's primary concern should be with protecting the interests of the residents who are directly impacted.  In either case fairness is of prime importance, these facts are significant enough by themselves for the city to deny PDCC ownership a zone change on the Executive Course.

At the April 11, 2013 PD City Council Meeting, Mr. Moe Sihota, Palm Desert Country Club Managing Director was asking the City to administer a vote so the PDCC Community could express their opinions regarding his proposal of a resident assessment through a Landscape Lighting District.  The vote was postponed until November, 2013.  Mr. Sihota stated "If it happens great, but if it didn't they will have to live with it".  One week after this meeting, PDCC owners closed the Executive Course, turned off the water and failed to maintain the Executive Course.  Since that time PDCC ownership has allowed the course to deteriorate to a total blighted condition.  Was this done to pressure the residents to approve his proposed assessment and planned development when the residents know this is not right, not fair?  Was purchasing PDCC a bad business decision?  If so, it is not the City's responsibility to bail them out with a rezone decision that would harm PDCC residents.  It doesn't make any sense for PD City to change a zoning position after 50 years and disenfranchise over 180 homeowners to accommodate a company who purchased PDCC for less than $1.8 million, permanently closed the Executive Course, turned off the water and failed to maintain the property.  Could this be a clear indication that they had a plan all along to develop the Executive Course at the PDCC resident's expense?  Just turning off the water has devalued 180 residentials properties.  Did PDCC ownership fail to show reasonable marketing efforts to promote the Executive Course?  Did turning off the water and lack of maintenance clearly show their intent from the beginning?

Palm Desert City Council has adopted ordinances that regulate the use and maintenance of private property.  Code Compliance states, "Blight and nuisances can devalue, detract and degrade the quality of any neighborhood". Does this sound like the PDCC Executive Course?

The PDCC owners say they offered the Executive Course to the City of Palm Desert but the city didn't want it.  It is our understanding that the city never received an offer to transfer ownership of the Executive Course to the city.

The Open Space Action Committee and PDCC residents were told by city officials we needed to compromise with the PDCC ownership to resolve the issue with the Executive Course.  Many excellent suggestions for the Executive Course Conversion had been submitted to the PDCC owners and were totally disregarded.  Compromise is not a matter of question anymore, OSAC will continue  our total support for all PDCC residents to stop a zone change on the Executive Course.  Wilf Weinkauf, PDCC General Manager has stated, "I cannot guarantee that would be no construction on the PDCC Championship Course".  This zone change request affects every property owner in the PDCC Community.  Each and every property owner needs to support the effort to stop this zone change request.  Stand up and be counted!!!

The Open Space Action Committee has faithfully kept the PDCC Community informed of the PDCC Proposed Development for the past 3 years.  You as the silent majority need to come forward NOW and show your physical support, financial support and opposition by:
.Attending the Planning Commission Hearing and City Council Hearing when scheduled.
.Write your opposition to all City Officials, Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, Council Members, City Attorney, City Manager and Director of Community Development.
.Be available to help the OSAC when called upon to do so.
.Make a donation to:
Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St.  Ste A  Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca.  92211

PDCC Executive Course is one of the last remaining "open space" in the east end of Palm Desert.  Open space is a precious commodity and can be considered an area's lungs that offset the effects of air pollution. Open space within and in close proxmity to urban centers increase livability and enhance property values.  Preserving nature might extend  humankind's own survival on this planet-natural places enrich our lives, allow all us to be healthy and not suffocated by the greed of construction.  Once the open space is gone it can never be recovered.

PDCC ownership has stated they will be selling their proposed condos for $300,000.00 to $400,000.00.  Using a average of $350,000.00 for 67 condos that would be $23,450,000.00.  Quite a return on their $1.8 million for a 27 hole golf course.  Does this support greed of construction and original intent?

We will inform you when more information is available regarding the zone change.

Please share this with your neighbors and friends.

Thank you for your support,
Open Space Action Committee
Barbara Powers, Serena Illk, Kay Adamson, Cindy Stevenson, Charlie

October 6, 2016
HELLO NEIGHBORS
 URGENT! We need your help to SAVE OUR OPEN SPACE on the Executive Course of PDCC.

 The City of Palm Desert informed us that the Palm Desert Country Club owners filed a Request for Zone Change October 5, 2016,  regarding the PDCC Executive Course.

 Request for a Zone Change Procedure:
1. Applicant to submit complete application to the Department of Community Development for staff review. Staff will investigate the  request, prepare a staff report with a recommendation, publish legal notices, and notify the applicant and adjacent property owners  of the public hearings at Planning Commission and City Council. 

2. The proposed change of zone will be presented to the Planning Commission, typically within 6-10 weeks from the time is submitted  to staff. Some cases may take longer. 

 3. The proposed change of zone will then be presented to the City Council for final approval, typically within 4-6 weeks from the  Planning Commission decision. 

 We are asking for donations to fight the Request for a Zone Change.  We have an attorney who will represent us in this action.  Please  send your donations to the address listed below.

 If you have not signed a petition to prohibit construction on the PDCC Executive and Championship Courses, please print, copy, sign  and return the attached petition to us at the address listed below or by email to openspaceaction@gmail.com.  

 We will keep you informed as more information becomes available.
 
Please share this information with your friends and neighbors.
 
Thanking you in advance for your financial support.
 
Barbara Powers,
Secretary, Open Space Action Committee
 
Address:
Open Space Action Committee
42215 Washington St.  Ste A  Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca.  92211
 
 
September 29, 2016
WE HAVE A NEW ADDRESS:
OPEN SPACE ACTION COMMITTEE
42215 WASHINGTON ST.  STE A  BOX 237
PALM DESERT, CA.  92211


September 17, 2016

Palm Desert Country Club Ownership held another community meeting Thursday evening.  Once again they and the architects tried to convince the community that the planned construction for the Executive Course is a good thing.

There was a reasonably large turnout from the homeowners considering the fact that the majority of our snowbirds are still absent.  Van Tanner from the City Council and Ryan Stendell from the city's planning department also were in attendance.  Objections to the planned construction fell on the deaf ears of PDCC ownership.

The most important information from the meeting was the fact that PDCC ownership plans to formally file for the zoning change and construction permits within the next 30 days.  This is where our fight really needs your help.  Not only will we need for each and everyone of you (and all our neighbors) to attend all of the hearings held by the city council, but your financial support is needed as well to help pay for the attorney we have retained to assist us in our attempt to stop the destruction of our neighborhood.

Please send your non-tax deductible contributions to:

Open Space Action Committee
 Washington St., Ste. A,  Box 237
Palm Desert, Ca. 92211



August 24,2016
Hello Neighbors!

Palm Desert Country Club has scheduled a community meeting on September 15, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in the community hall at the PDCC HOA Building.

Their miscalculation of choosing to jump ahead of PDCC residents returning to the desert, doesn't affect the process once they submit to the City of Palm Desert.  The important meetings will be the ones held by the City of Palm Desert and we will notify you immediately once those meetings are scheduled.

Thank you for your continued support.
Open Space Action Committee
Barbara Powers, Serena Ilk, Kay Adamson, Cindy Stevenson, Charlie Ash

June 26,2016

A draft of the City Of Palm Desert New General Plan has been completed and is available at:

http://www.cityofpalmdesert.org/our-city/general-plan-update
We will keep you informed when PDCC makes the application for a zone change. 

April 30, 2016

 
From a homeowner on the Executive Course:
 Just thinking out-loud: As the grass has died on the executive course and most of it is completely gone leaving a very                                fine  layer of sand that is easily picked up by the winds with it ending up in our houses, yards, outdoor furniture making it impossible for much of  that not to end up in our lungs.  The course owners (in my opinion) have created a health hazard not to mention what they have done to out property values. 
I wonder what the committee’s attorney would think of a class action lawsuit. As I said, just think out-loud. Sometimes a curve ball can get a strike.
There are many senior home owners that have seen their values effected that rely heavily on that nest egg and are the first  ones effected by respiratory issues. 
 Answer from Barbara Powers:
 Our attorney has looked all the possibilities.   At this time we are watching several
court cases that involve three different golf courses.   Rancho Mirage CC, Silverstone CC in
Nevada, and the Escondido CC.   They were all purchased by real estate developers.
So far the homeowners haven't had much luck.    I have a friend that lives on Silerstone and
their costs to fight this were over $75,000.  before they got to court.   The owners of 
Silverstone sold the course to another entity the day the judge was going to fine them
$100,000 for not watering and taking care of the course .  (They actually had a CC &R on their
deed to require this, we do not have the same). That next day they filed Bankruptcy in California, the new buyer  was an LLC registered in California.  The last time I checked the Bankruptcy court sent it back to Nevada.  
 
The law suit that was filed back in 2004 to stop Horton from building homes here at PDCC
was thrown out.  Each member of the law suit had to pony up $2000. a piece for court costs
besides what ever&n
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