City Council Watch

Desert Hot Springs

City Council Meeting

Bias Shines Up Gaval One Last Time Patricia Saleh

Dec. 2007-DESERT HOT SPRINGS — In an act of good sportsmanship before a standing-room-only crowd at the Carl May Center, outgoing Desert Hot Springs Mayor Alex Bias handed over the reins to new DHS. Mayor Yvonne Parks with a smile, adding, “I took the time mayors don’t do . . . to polish the gavel.”
After a contentious term of office that saw Bias banned from council-appointed external committee meetings and on the verge of being asked to resign by fellow council members, the shined up gavel appeared to signify that he was wiping away the past and giving the new mayor a shiny new start.
Riverside County Supervisor Marion Ashley and Steven Sanchez, District Director for Bonnie Garcia, were on hand to thank Bias and the two other outgoing council members, Hank Hohenstein and Mary Stephens, for their contributions and to welcome in new DHS City Council members Al Schmidt, Karl Baker and Russell Betts.

Mayor Parks later opened the regular session with the presentation of the Golden Bear Awards by Police Chief Patrick Williams.
Accepting the honor were Crime Scene Investigation officers Terry Sherman, Gustavo Paiz and Mike Chilner who are among only 50 officers a year to be awarded the Golden Bear in the state of California. The award is given for the officers’ work in establishing the evidence basis for crimes that lead to convictions.

The Council then began what Councilman Steve Matas said was the difficult task of choosing between worthy applicants for Community Block Grant Funds totaling $14,000 for program support and $125,000 for capital improvements. Among those that applied were the Desert Hot Springs Boys & Girls Club, Little League, Senior Center, Sober Age, Cabot’s Museum, Food Now and House of Hope.
After considering various ways the applicants could achieve their goals with or without the grants, Little League and Cabot’s Museum were selected to split the $14,000 in program funds, and the Boys & Girls Club and Senior Center will share the $125,000 for capital improvements. The capital grants will enable the two groups to improve their electrical system and kitchen, respectively.
Public comment was taken on the renaming of West Drive to Henry Lozano Way to help fight gang-related violence. Lozano was a 20-year-old marine killed in a gang shooting. His mother, Donna Lozano, took the floor in support of the name change. She said that the name West Street is currently associated with gang activity.
A note of caution was injected by Councilman Baker who said, “When tragedy hits we want to pay tribute. Sometimes we rush to pay tribute. “Perhaps, he added, it would be better to think it over in that “the West Street Gang could become the Lozano Street Gang.” Councilman Betts moved to get City staff to create a street-name policy and draft a resolution on the name change that would be presented to the Planning Commission and be open to public comment. The motion passed with only Baker dissenting.

In announcing their priorities for the coming year, the new Council members announced the following goals:
Betts said he wants to see the downtown transformed and to help increase home values and attract new business to the city to help pay for additional police. He said he wants to see the City use local events coordinators to help with City festivities and to see more Desert Hot Springs residents shop at home. He will also make it a goal to change polling place assignments so people living close to one polling place don’t have to drive several miles to another.
Baker said that he would like to see people recognize that teenagers “like to do good,” citing the help of a young man, [Jesus Hernandez] who helped serve Thanksgiving Dinner to seniors at the DHS Senior Center. He arrived on his own without affiliating with any particular service group, and Baker said, “He fed this elderly man bite by bite.”

Schmidt said, “I’d like to see us stay out of the headlines . . . run meetings more quickly—real boring, that means with no controversy. . . . We must run the City like a business. The City doesn’t have a lot of money. . . .We have to be careful of grants we give out. . . . I’d like to see a volunteer army. . . . We have to be an economic success. We have to use good, sound judgment. Image is real big for me. I’d like to see the difference show between when people leave the County and come into the city.”
Parks said, “I have given ‘Postive Energy for a Positive Future’ buttons to all the council members.” She also stated that she’d like to see the City staff contact DHS High School about giving Jesus Hernandez a commendation for his help at the Senior Center Thanksgiving.
“Many HOAs have contacted me,” Parks went on, “about safety on Palm Drive, particularly between Dillon and Two Bunch.”. . . “They want to see a signal installed on Campanea and Palm,” she said, . . . “and walkways are essential to safety.”

DHS City Manager Rick Daniels announced that volunteers are needed to serve on various City advisory boards and commissions.
He also said that he’d spent two hours touring DHS for code violations. “We saw shopping carts, mattresses . . . and identified 33 code violations. . . . I’ve asked Code Enforcement for a status report and we’ve gotten two court orders for abatements. The demolition of these properties will be done before January 29.”

Parks, the city’s first woman mayor, faced off against two of her all male council members in a lightning fast parliamentary procedure fight when attempting to call the question on a vote establishing council appointments to various committees. Betts and Baker wanted to defer the vote until the next meeting and they immediately drew points from Roberts Rules of Order to stop the mayor from proceding. The City Attorney was asked to resolve the matter by offering his opinion and, being that it wasn’t a legal matter, he claimed he did not have a “Roberts Rules of Order” book. In the end, Parks held her own and in light of the lengthy meeting and the urgency of the matters being handled by the committees the question was called. The Council voted to allow staff recommendations on the appointments to stand.

A note of caution was injected by Councilman Baker who said, “When tragedy hits we want to pay tribute. Sometimes we rush to pay tribute.” Perhaps, he added, it would be better to think it over in that “the West Street Gang could become the Lozano Street Gang.” Councilman Betts moved to get City staff to create a street-name policy and draft a resolution on the name change that would be presented to the Planning Commission and be open to public comment. The motion passed with only Baker dissenting.

In announcing their priorities for the coming year, the new Council members announced the following goals:

Betts said he wants to see the downtown transformed and to help increase home values and attract new business to the city to help pay for additional police. He said he wants to see the City use local events coordinators to help with City festivities and to see more Desert Hot Springs residents shop at home.
City Council Watch for August 07,2007

Dot Reed called on people to attend her upcoming birthday party with a donation of $25.00 or more to help the most successful House Of Hope organization in Riverside County.

Long time resident and property owner and former Fire Captain and councilmen, Phil Kerr - At the last meeting with LAFCO, we lost the Palmwood annexation.

The city cmanager would not defend the annexation for the city, even at the urging of Mayo Pro Tem, Mary Stephens. The TOT that would be generated as well the sales tax, would pay for a fired station to be staffed. He went on to urge the city council that they need to replace the cm with one who will carry out the wishes of the citizens and not her own agenda.

Billy Makuta talked about his frustrations with the non action of the city to enforce regulations to protect his property from non compliant builders.He was supported by his wife Ellen, who echoed his statements and sentiments. Nothing has been done by the city to help them protect their home which they are trying to sell.

Don Sholte and wife Virginia, newcomers to the city, addressed their remarks in both Spanish and English, to the conservation commision, LAFCO, and environmental organizations, regarding MSHCP's opposition to Palmwood. We would all benefit from the palmwood Development. He stressed that the city needs money and jobs and this would open jobs to the city as well as the valley, saying, "Let us not be the forgotten city of the valley." They issued a challenge to the developers and the citizens to make this a successful project. The hotel would blend in and offer so many jobs. there would be around 1800 homes and asked the council to make them have solar and desertscape. They recommended landscaping with 'Easy Turf'. They ended their remarks with, "Dream big but with intelligence."

Accordingly, The county of Riverside spent $200,000 to get a reversal on the Palmwood project by the LAFCO decision made earlier.

According to Councilman Hank Hohenstein, the matter may not be settled yet.

Mayor Bias gave out a crime reporting line called We tip at 800-78-crime to report any kind of crime to the city without being identified as the caller.

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City Council Watch for February 20, 2007

The February 20, 2007 Desert Hot Springs City Council meeting was disrupted several times by unhappy members of the audience, due to questions of citizen's rights to freedom of speech. Some were disappointed that speakers were unable to finish their speeches as others claimed freedoms were taken advantage of.

Jan Pye took offense to some who rose to speak of threats and certain personal grievances, saying that she respects the right of freedom of speech but there also should be limits and guidelines when speaking before official and legislative gatherings.

During public speaking Alavos Sandoval stated that he was told by candidate Adam Sanchez that he should not speak in front of the council regarding certain issues, and that if he did he (Sanchez) would get people to speak against Sandoval in manner that his reputation would be damaged.

Entrepreneur Ali Baba, asked that the city tie its name to the Cabot’s Museum Festival in order to give the event more impetus, thereby promoting more interest and a larger attendance.

Jeff Bowman spoke on the loss of hotelier Steve Lowe who helped the hotel industry enormously and the great work he did for the city unknown to most citizens. He offered to remain at the disposal of the city for volunteering on commissions. His Spa was one of the top ten "hidden gems" hotels in the nation.

Dean Gray spoke against the land grab by Cathedral City, stating that the city council is not objecting to this action. He suggested in strong terms that the citizens tell the news media that Palm Drive belongs to Desert Hot Springs, not Cathedral City.
He read a proclamation by the DHS Chamber of Commerce declaring the desire to stop the Cathedral City annexation of that portion of Palm Drive under consideration by LAFCO. However Cathedral City came over the freeway and filed for sphere of influence sometime in the 80s and 90s. It was granted to Cathedral City as part of their sphere of influence, but not necessarily annexation.
Desert Hot Springs still can protest!

Esteana Aubrey came forth with a petition by Desert Hot Springs citizens for the securing of the college of the desert to the COD Board of Directors. Residents want to bring COD to the west end of the city.

Nicky Nichols spoke of the "revolving door" for our many interim police chiefs. He directed his statements to City Manager Ann Marie Gallant. Nicky demanded more police, more protection for the citizens.

Gabrial King stepped up to the microphone to once again make accusations against Councilmember Mary Stephens and stated the existence of another supposed illegality by a city council candidate. That is when the television cameras, due to an outburst by the audience or individuals, were turned off, denying the viewing audience the legal right to view the city council proceedings for approximately 20 minutes.

City Council Candidate Robert Bentley came forward and spoke of the unfariness of quieting Mr. Sandoval who had a right to speak about the threats made to him by a city council candidate. He spoke of candidate Matas' getting a liquor license for his new business in the La Toscana Resort. He said that he is never threatened and said that "you can look into my eyes and see that I will not be threatened!"

City Council Candidate Karl Baker spoke on the importance of our sphere of influence and how Palm Springs and Cathedral City is trying to get our land to cash in on the coming retail businesses that are bound to come with the new COD extension. He iterated that he would like to see a campaign sign ordinance, which he had previously requested but fears one does not exist. "Staff told us we are allowed to put up signs in the public right-aways, but we have no sign ordinance." An environmental study is being circulated for a residential development near the Rancho Del Oro area; Candidate Baker says we do not need a new developement in that area.

Angela Barrier in an effort to save the Explorer Program, stood to say that she was told that the Explorer Post was cancelled due to budget constraints and staff shortage. "We have continued working events and haveing meetings. We received no notice that the program was to be shut down until it was received by mail.We see no budget constraints, as we are a non-profit program.
We work with police officers. we have five members, how is it a lack of personnel."

Mary Barrier spoke on behalf of the Explorers and the success it has had. It is a positive enforcement of the kids. DHSHS started a program and for what? To be told that our city does not spport students learning to be police officers? Cathedral City will sponsor this program. Says she was approached by an investigator who was hired by the city.

City Councilmember Mary Stephens, in response to King's erroneous personal attacks, says her personal file disappeared from the city file and then, "lo and behold!", she says, "suddenly appeared on Gabriel's website." The claim from King was regarding her citation for no permit for a wall she had built. The city staff could also find no permit, after she had paid and produced a canceled check. She paid once again and the wall was permitted. She also spoke in favor of reinstating the Explorer Program, if any way were possible.

Mayor Alex Bias spoke against the wording of campaign signs which says "reform the city council, vote yes on Measure A." He objects to the wording. He is concerned that the measure is "reform" driven, rather than "council driven." He gave Webster's (?) definition of what "reform" means. He questioned the city attorney as to the legality of having the sign reworded. The city attorney repeated over and over that without seeing the signage he could not answer but would be happy to look into it.

Apparently Glen Greener spoke at the podium but the public was not allowed to hear his statements, whether by accident, technical failure or purposely hushed, the television signal was not made available to the viewing public. it is the public's right, if possible, to hear every speaker.

The council decided to all attend the CVAG meeting in Riverside at the next meeting.
"We need to establish alliances with LAFCO, for we will be up before LAFCO at least a half dozen times between now and the next nine months." - City Manager Ann Marie Gallant

Mayor Bias adjourned to the Redevelopment Agency (RDA) meeting, and opened with a roll call. All members were present and with a full board.

First speaker Karl Baker was questioning the spending of money on the specific downtown plan. City Manager Ann Marie Gallant was helpful in explaining the sources of specific monies and what agency would pay.
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Council Watch for February 6, 2007

The subject of renovation of Palm Drive and Pierson Boulevard.

Plan for Palm Drive & Pierson Boulevard renovation from VONS to the downtown area, with Palm & Pierson as the hub, was a main consideration at Tuesday night, February 6, 2007's City Council meeting and according to Steven Mendoza, community development, everything proposed to be refurbished, rebuilt or renewed will tie into the landscaping and architecture of the surrounding area.

Councilmember Yvonne Parks stated that the guidelines are important, especially for the infill lots. We don't necessarily have to go with the old guidelines; we have a new vision and we need to get this completed as soon as possible. Motion by Mary; 2nd by Yvonne ... carried unanimously

A grant request for Food Now was made due to the fact that food now cannot make their rent or afford to operate this fiscal year.

Scott says we lost two major grants for Food Now and the program is in dire straits and needs help. "What is the long term viability of the program?", asked Mayor Alex Bias. Everything is driven by the man who is being hired. His job will be to go out and get grants and the money needed to operate the program. A motion was made and carried to approve funds to help Food Now.

A resolution to set aside funds for first-time homebuyers by Redevelopment Agency for fiscal year 2007 was approved unanimously

Adam Sanchez received a City Proclamation from Mayor Alex Bias, proclaiming the month of February Black History Month. Sanchez will help to sponsor through the Boys & Girls Club, a celebration of Black History month with blues and jazz at the Spa Resort Hotel. Several speakers took the podium to laud Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black History month. A few church members spoke from the Mission 2 in Desert Hot Springs, with one young lady reading a the speech by Martin Luther King, Jr.; "I have a dream."

A 45 day moratorium proposed on the voting for or against the selling of medical marijuana. Under federal law it is illegal to possess or distribution of marijuana for any purpose.

Mary Stephens says the question of approving medical marijuana dispensaries in DHS would open elected city officials to litigation by Federal government. No matter what is approved by county or state, federal law still supercedes local law and city officials can be held responsible for breaking federal law. She spoke at CVAG and she asked if a city chose to allow medical marijuana what could happen? The Feds said that they would probably come in and prosecute the city.

City Attorney Duran stated a few facts concerning the outcome of some other cities that have approved the dispensing of medical marijuana in the sense of higher crime. Increased drug activity and DUIs along with increased violence and attempted thefts in the vicinity of the dispensaries. Speaker after speaker rose to speak in favor of leaving the local dispensary open for medical marijuana dispensing. The store was opened without a license, relying on the California state law legalizing the use of medical marijuana, ignoring the law against the use or possession of marijuana in any manner of form.

Mrs. Silva dramatically told her story of how she carries the bag of legal medicines for her husband who is in constant pain and relies on the medical marijuana for pain control. The legal medicines cost them $500. per month. She says if the dispensary closes she would have to go on the street to get it at the risk of being jailed, robbed, raped or assaulted.

One man was asked by the Chief of Police to exit the building due to his loud outbreak and ranting that he did not have enough time to state his case regarding medical marijuana.

Yells of replacing the city council and promises of lawsuits possibly being lodged against them came sporadically from the pro-marijuana group.

A young representative of the Desert Hot Springs Police Explorer program asked that the program be reinstated after being told it was being discontinued by way of letter. She very succinctly stated her case and was applauded by an audience which apparently had no knowledge of the dissolution of the program.

Alvaros Sandoval...came forward to thank the council for taking a stance against the Sierra Club. Two candidates were endorsed by Cathedral City. Karl Baker and Adam Sanchez. Spoke against them for leaning toward others rather than for the community of Desert Hot Springs and stated he supports Scott Matas for City Council.

Robert Bentley stood to speak on eminent domain. Stating that just compensation does not exist, emphatically told the council they must not start taking people's property to satisfy others.

Dave Hoopes asked the council for an explanation of Measure A and stated that the best way to run a council is just the way it is now, whereby the people have a chance to change councils every two years.

Gabriel King reminded the council that no one is showing up at CVAG meetings to represent us for the Bridge development meetings. He said that if someone does not pay attention, Cathedral City is coming to take over the southern corridor.

City Manager Ann Marie Gallant clarified the question of DHS attending CVAG Bridge meetings, stating that Dan Patinuade has faithfully attended these meetings and if we have not been attending and should be attending, that it will be corrected soon. She was then sent home to nurse her cold.

City Clerk Rossie Stobbs informed us that our voting polls may have changed. Be sure to check the back of your ballot.

Council member Yvonne Parks assured the sudience and the concil that the Bridge meetings would be covered. Apparently the Cathedral City annexation will go through as they have been granted that assurance from LAFCO as far back as 1985. We will probably lose that area even though DHS paved the four-lane road made improvements and worked hard to get a new overpass.

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HOME

Following is a message of congratulations from former DHS mayor Matt Weyuker

"I'm so proud of you Dot -

you are a class act! You'll bring a different, but needed dimension and perception to the City Council. Thanks for being who you are - you are in deed a very special woman, one that I am proud to call my friend.

To my "buds" Hank, Mary, and Yvonne - you too have been a team of "class acts." Thanks for hanging in there for our city and thanks for displaying your evenhanded, fair behavior in the face of the "ogre-blogger."

Y'all be well, Hope to see you soon, "

Matt

It was a good one! One of the best in a long time! That was the Desert Hot Springs City Council meeting on Tuesday, November 7, 2006. If not productive, it proved to be one of the most entertaining in some time

The meeting started with an uneasy atmosphere as one after the other stood to denounce Mayor Alex Bias. Many called for his resignation and his uncooperative, arrogant, superior attitude came under question. Mayor Bias sat quietly and absorbed the insults, accusations and suggestions that he step down and stop embarrassing himself and the city.

He was criticized by his peers for acting on his own without proper protocol of checking with the other councilmembers.

After several speakers had condemned Mayor Bias, Councilman Hank Hohenstein made an emotional plea, calling for a unified council and a unified community. Hohenstein said he had come to the dais with the intentions of asking Bias to do the city and community a favor and resign, but having second thoughts after thinking of his mother's words when he was a boy, Hohenstein decided to try to work with the mayor in a spirit of cooperation, for the good of the council's future and the progress to be made in the city as it moves forward.

To Councilman Hank Hohenstein's surprise, he was warmly thanked with a roaring standing ovation by the citizens in attendance, in a collective showing of support. All during this time, speakers were welcoming and praising the appointment of Dot Reed as the newest member of the City Council. She was warmly welcomed by almost the entire crowd of some 200 people; a large crowd indeed for a council meeting.

As the night wore on and amendments and motions were discussed, it was at a moment when a chatterbox in the crowd was becoming a bit annoying and overbearing that 6' 2", 230 pound Randy Duncan asked the council to excuse him as he turned to the rude, obnoxious chatterbox and in no uncertain terms told him, "either shut up or leave", to which Gabriel King replied, " I apologize..." The new Interim Police Chief John Hensley was introduced to the public to a round of applause. Seemed to be accepted with much gusto.

The accolades for Dot Reed seem to come all night long. Our very efficient and personable City Manager, Ann Marie Gallant brought the citizens up to date on what the city is doing and the plans for the Christmas season with several holiday events as well as the Veteran's Memorial Park Celebration on November 11. The Veteran's event will start with a flag raising at Cabot's Pueblo Museum that morning.

She mentioned the Christmas Tree Auction and the Christmas Tree Lighting, then moving along to the December 9 Christmas Parade.

Al Schmitdt rose to tell the mayor that at the previous meeting, he knew that he had the right to be recognized and the mayor had denied him that right.

It was a memorable occasion, filled with pleasant surprises throughout.

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Council Watch for February 6, 2007

The subject of renovation of Palm Drive and Pierson Boulevard.

Councilmember Yvonne Parks stated that the guidlines are important, especially for the infill lots. We don't necessarily have to go with the old guidlines; we have a new vision and we need to get this completed as soon as possible. Motion by Mary; 2nd by Yvonne ... carried unamimously

A grant request for Food Now was made diur to the fact athat food now cannot make thier rent or afford to operate this fiscal year.

Scott says we lost two major grants for Food Now and the program is in dire straits and needs help. "What is the long term viabilidty of the program?", asked Mayor Alex Bias. Everything is driven by the man who is being hired. His job will be to go out and get grants and the money needed to operat the program. A motion was made and carried to approve funds to help Food Now.

A resolution to set aside funds for first-time homebuyers by Redevelopment Agency for fiscal year 2007 was approved unanimously

Adam Sanchez recieved a City Proclamation from Mayor Alex Bias, proclaiming the month of February Black History Month. Sanchez will help to sponsor through the Boys & Girls Club, a celebration of Balck History month with blues and jazz at the Spa Resort Hotel. Several speakers took the podium to laud Dr. Martin Luthor King, Jr. and Black History month. A few church members spoke from the Mission 2 in Desert Hot Springs, with one young lady reading a the speech by Martin Luthor King, Jr.; "I have a dream."

A 45 day moritorium proposed on the voting for or against the selling of medical marijuana. Under federal law it is illegal to posssesss or distrubiution of marijuana for any purpose.

Mary Stephens says the question of approving medical marijuana dispensaries in dhs would open elected city officials to litigation by Federal government. No matter what is approved by county or state, federal law still supercedes local law and city officials can be held responsible for breaking federal law.Dea spoke at CVAG and she asked if a city chose to allow medical marijuana what could happen? The Feds said that they would probably come in and prosecute the city.

Mrs Silva dramatically told her story of how she carries the bag of legal medicines for her husband who is in constant pain and relies on the medical marijuana for pain control. The legal medcines cost them $500. per month. She says if the dispensary closes she would have to go on the street to get it at the risk of being jailed, robbed, raped or assaulted.

Lanny Desilva a representative for Riverside County was asked by the Chief of Police to exit the building due to his loud outbreak and ranting that he did not have enough time to state his case regarding medical marijuana.

Yells of replacing the city council and promises of lawsuits possibly being lodged against them came sporadically from the pro-marijuana group.

Alvaros Sandaval...came forward to thank the council for taking a stance against the Sierra Club. Two candidates were endorsed by Cathedral City. Karl Baker and Adam Sanchez. Spoke against them for leaning toward others rather than for the community of Desert Hot Springs and stated he supports scott Matas for City Council.

Robert Bently stood to speak on eminent domain. Stating that just compensation does not exist, emphatically told the council they must not start taking people's property to satisfy others.

City Clerk Rossie Stobbs informed us that our voting polls may have changed. Be sure to check the back of your ballot.

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Dot Reed is New DHS Councilmember!

October 2006 - In a 3 to 1 decision on Tuesday night, the 17th of October, 2006, Dot Reed, in a wise decision by the Desert Hot springs City Council, was appointed to fill the vacant City Council seat. The vacancy was created by the death of Councilmember Gary Bosworth who passed away in recent months.

Ms Reed is a community activist of the highest calibre and is well-liked by everyone in this city of 20,000. She will officially be sworn on November 7, 2006, which is also the official state and national Election Day.

The new council woman will bring to the council, a balance among the other two men and two women serving on the DHS City Council. Those now serving include Mayor Alex Bias, Mayor Pro-Tem, Mary Stephens and Councilmembers Hank Hohenstein and Yvonne Parks.

Dot Reed is not expected to run for re-election in March of 2007, in the General Election for that seat, but the decision was not a stipulation and is left open and not carved in stone.

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Council Watch for April 18, 2006

April 18, 2006 ~ Dennis Colbert, president of Riverside County Homeowners Association explained how the MSHCP would be a way for Wildlife Agencies to gain control of a city’s progress and growth.
Phil Kerr former DHS city councilman and DHS Fire Battalion Chief told of how as a 28 year property owner in Desert Hot Springs, he would be impacted negatively and financially in his golden years, if the city council approved the Multi Species Habitat Conservation Plan.
Robert Stempler mentioned a concern he has that if one or more cities do not sign on to the plan, it triggers serious consequences. If we do not sign on, we are on our own. If we implement this plan each homeowner will have to pay $1200.00. He asked the council to consider approving the plan.
Reading from a letter by Jim Battin, representative Susan Crawford says DHS has many programs in the city that would be crippled by the approval of this plan. Many questions asked of CVAG were unanswerable. Under this plan 45% of the land set aside has not even yet been assigned. Who pays for the fees? What is the fair market value of land not open to development? This has never been addressed saying ther is a false security of signing onto this plan. These groups do not negotiate. He is opposed to the methods used by elected officials and wildlife agencies threatening reprisals if the city does not approve this plan. Citizens June of 20007 building of the bridges and Palm Drive will go forth whether we approve or not. Suedo science has created theoretical areas of habitation.
Mario Gonzalez spoke on behalf of his projects by his company GHA which has three major housing projects in progress at the present time. He urges a “no” vote on the MSHP.
Glen Greener read a part of former mayor Matt Weyuker’s article from the Valley Breeze. Mayor Weyuker’s words were pure wisdom in its context. The former mayor told of the catastrophe approval would be.
Charles Scicile of GHA Development also urged a no vote on the plan.
Brad Adams Whitewater Energy Turbine, says the city has a vested interest in our business. The plan will have an impact on us. For every acre we buy we must set aside nine acres for the plan.
Karl Baker seemed to be urging a “yes” vote on the plan, citing Marion Ashley and Supervisor Roy Wilson, two elected officials who have bought into the plan.
Councilman Hank Hohenstein made a motion to vote down the Coachella Valley MSHCP immediately, and the motion was immediately seconded by Yvonne Parks, as Mayor Bias tried his best to negate the motion. Suggesting his lack of understanding, Ms Parks reminded the mayor that if he had not interrupted Councilman Hohenstein, he would have understood the motion. With the question of legality and protocol being explained to him that the motion was proper and legal, Mayor Bias continued to talk about everyone working as a team and how the council should conduct itself regarding this and other serious matters.
Councilwoman Yvonne Parks asked that the motion made by Hank be restated for clarity. Hank repeated the motion to vote no later than May 9th to negotiate with CVAG.
Ms Parks discussed how some properties had been proven not to have any endangered species at all within their boundaries. She spoke of three species which may be in DHS area, two of which are not on the endangered species and should be disallowed. Therefore the 11,000 acres demanded by the agencies are far more than is required for the one remaining endangered species, which is the desert tortoise. She stated that DHS should make the proposals and let the agencies conform to us rather than us to them.
Mary Stephens explained that the land for the COD campus is covered by this plan and we will not get the campus because the land is not available. We must keep negotiating and speaking up.
Councilman Hank Hohenstein stated that we are in no position to negotiate if we do not have a plan of our own. He believes prior negotiations have gone moderately well. The various species we have to deal with is a small number. 280 acres would take up all the “take” allowed to the city. 226 property owners have to be protected and a plan has to be made as to how they should be compensated.
Speaking of the wildlife agencies, he says, “I have difficulty with a group that doesn’t even know how the endangered specie even reproduce.”
Hohenstein’s motion was voted and carried 3 – 2, with Stephens, Hohenstin and Parks voting for and Bias and Bosworth voting against.

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DHS Mayor Alex Bias in Another Foreclosure Action

According to Ed Lambert, a former landlord of Desert Hot Springs Mayor Alex Bias, the mayor is in foreclosure, along with wife Carol Jean, on his home on Monterico Road in Desert Hot Springs. This is not really news to folks in Desert Hot Springs, as it has happened at least four times prior and some say many more times than that.

"This is far from the first time this has happened," says process server, Joann Hutchinson of Desert Hot Springs.

The home was reportedly purchased by the couple, in Carol Jean's name for $199,500, who was bringing the only income, at the time. Since payments have not been made on the house since November 2004, the value has increased to an estimated $400,000. Edward L. and Leila Sue Lambert, trustees of The Lambert Family Trust, have filed a Declaration of Default on March 19, 2006, with Fidelity National Trust Company.All those parties involved must be notified within 10 days.

Edward Lambert, who has a family trust and is executing the foreclosure, was a landlord and "friend" to Bias for the time the mayor rented his real estate office in Lambert's building at Palm Drive and Pierson Boulevard, until his eviction in October of 2005, shortly before being narrowly elected in November. Even after Lambert sold the building in which Bias occupied an office, he paid Bias' rent, when the mayor defaulted, finally totaling as much as $6,600.00..

The couple claim their only source of income is the social security check that Carol Jean receives and the mayor's $650.00 a month salary, plus his contracted perks.

It is now feared that the mayor's lack of financial irresponsibilities and leadership qualities may affect the way home, industrial and commercial developers look at the city's ability to follow through on promises made to them.

Carol Jean wrote six undated checks to Lambert in the amount of $1100. each, promising to make them good. That did not happen and now Lambert has given the checks over to the County District Attorney's office in Riverside, which could possibly find grounds for criminal prosecution.

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February 2006 - Queen Sheharazade thanked the city for their support and invited all to come out to the Riverside Date Festival, at which the City is represented by our Chamber of Commerce, chaired by Dr. Paul Ross, who has represented DHS for the past 20 years.Dillon Baird 66-013 Barona Ave., People to people, sponsored by teacher Greg Paulk, is looking for contributions to send him to Australia to compete in the national debates.Mayor Bias offered $55.00 and Yvonne Parks commended Dillon for his determination and remarked on the Womens Club donaton to the debating team and promised a donation of her own. Several people in the audience pledged money during the speech. Ali Baba made a pledge of $100,000 to the building and locating of the university campus in Desert Hot Springs.A handwoven American flag, with stars of white woven silk, was presented to the City of Desert Hot Springs similar to the one presented to Mayor Bloomburg of New York.Fire Battalion Chief Mason introduced two new paramedics and presented a slide show of new equipment, including a new fire truck, a thermo nuclear unit used to see through heavy smoke.The City's Cynthia Lugo gave a presentation on the city's municipal code, with the aid of City Clerk Rossi Stobbs. They displayed a new online addition to the City's website, where a citizen can access the code 24 hours a day; a log of accomplishments up to the current date.

Tom Van Doran Code Supervisor, remarked on code enforcement division and presented his report via a slide show of properites which have been upgraded and brought into code compliance.

Construction Activity and Building report Dec 5.2 million dolllars of building permits for December 2005.$155,000,000. in permits in total evaluation for January 2006. Tuscan Hills and Skyborne are grading and Village One is moving forward. World's Gym is receiving assessments and will soon be progressing. Starbuck's is coming along slowly as is Jiffy Lube.

Assistant Chief Michael Hole was introduced; married 43 years, raised in Long Beach, CA and a past Chief of Police.

Ali Baba spoke on annexation of 550 acres along Dillon and Mountain View and long canyon. He has purchased 900 acres that can be developed to replace the land set aside for the MSHCP. DHS needs the college because it is a perfect location for it. "We need it for upper desert cities to stay on this side of the I-10." He also donated more money to bring it here. Adding to his initial $100,000., he called this phase one, and donated $400,000 more to get it started.

Dot Reed: "A very exciting evening. The college, Dillon Baird. When I came in 1978 we had one elementary school; now we have six. Friday night Mayor Alex Bias and Hank Hohenstein helped Soroptimist, with their presence, as they attended the Soroptimist project, "Teachers of the Year 2005". Happy to see so many good things happening in DHS."

An absentee owner who has property on Vista and Verbena for over 50 years says he could not afford to build on it. Builders now want to buy it. It's not for sale. Patty Reed code enforcement wrote that it was trashy. The owner paid $250. to clean it up. He went back a short time later and the lot is full of trash again. Asking the city if there is anything they can do to stop the illegal dumping on his lot. Glen Roberts informed the man that new methods are being put in place to curb this activity.

Judy Shea, local citizen, spoke about the Medical Center that we need now. She says we need to subsidize the clinic in order to get it moving ahead. At the same time she promotes her leading causes; women, children and the homeless, including taxpayer-paid programs to cover their needs, such as WIC and homeless welfare programs.

Carolyn Mantoya. described an auto collision she expericced with another vehicle and was acosted by lady in car who side swiped her, pulled over, got out and assaulted her. The woman then went back into her vehicle and I pulled in front of Mantoya, got out and hit her again. Police came down and threatened to arrest Mantoya. Police officers dismissed witnesses, according to Mantoya. She said she felt she had to address council in that she feels she was betrayed by local police.

Mary Hutcheson: community cultural affairs commission spoke about the Relay for Life, 24 hour walk. She said they needed volunteers to walk with them for one hour each on track. April 1 and 2nd.

Gabriel King addressed the MSHCP issue. "We are giving up too much. Threatening us to make us sign a document we don't understand is not right. Habitat is in DHS and Indio and if both do not sign we dont have a deal."

Carl Baker in his best purple suit and magenta tie gave great compliments to the council and the citizens of Desert Hot Springs, mentioning Linda Kosvics daughter who is taking a trip to Sweden, representing Desert Hot Springs. He also mentioned how the atmosphere in the chambers was so upbeat and how he thinks the city is turning around.

One of the most inspiring council meetings he has attended. We are blessed to be here.

Councilwoman Yvonne Parks echoed Mayor Bias' comments commending John Soulliere's College of the Desert presentation. Councilman Gary Bosworth gives thanks to soulliere for college presentation. "We have everthing here the college needs. campus, etc. a complete proposal. we have the legislators, Jim Battin and Jerry Lewis, including a half million dollar pledge from Ali Baba. This will reduce traffic rather than increase congestion."

Councilman Hank Hohenstein, gave praise and thanks to Ali Baba for his continued support. A few sharp words.

Councilwoman Mary Stephens called for an update on the progress of Pierson Blvd., which no one else even mentioned. A brief report from Dan Patenuade said by Monday men would be at work to finish lowering a water line on west Pierson, which is too close to the surface. Mary put statement on the record that she did not vote to set aside the land for MSHP, she and the council did not vote, only the mayor did and he voted in favor of the MSHP.

Mayor says, " We are a league of cities. As a member of a committee you have a responsibility to the city. If we expect to have a College of the Desert, we have to recognize that we need alliances as a city, as a sister city. For us to think the interests of the citizens were not served, I suggest they take the time to see what evolves. We have a chance to take a second bite of the apple. I made a decision that was for the best interest of every citizen of Desert Hot Springs. We are trying to bring ourselves up by our boot straps. We must soar. We will have great benefit from this plan. Council can now make a decision whether we want to make adjustments. I'm here to make sure that we secure the future of our city. To Councilwoman Mary Stephens, Mayor Bias says, " Open your mind and be pragmatic; you cannot judge prior to getting all the information, to make such a critical statement."

Councilwoman Stephens says, "I did not feel comfortable with the EIR.

On Mountain View specific plan amendment, Councilman Hank Hohenstein recused himself due to the fact it is located in close proximity to his home.

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November 1, 2005 ~ Desert Hot Springs City Council meeting started off evenly and in good spirits. The Community Foster Plan group was awarded recognition for their good work in finding foster homes for children of unstable homes, as was Principal Mike Swize, representing Desert Springs Middle School, which has just become the third Groundwater Guardian Team in the valley, joinging the original team and the second team, Desert Hot Springs High School and the first Groundwater Guardian Campus in the United States. Once again, Mr Gabriel King approached the podium and thanked the city for beginning work on streets in certain areas and then, as usual, began to tell the city engineers how to do the Home Pagework on streets and infrastructure. But when he started his rhetoric of political poison, regarding the recall signs, he was immediately told that this was not on the agenda and was relieved of his chance to speak, saying with a smile, that he would be back.