HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - June 15, 2020 - CCCITY OF AZUSA
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL, THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY
TO THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY,
THE PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY
REGULAR MEETING, AND
UTILITY BOARD SPECIAL MEETING
MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2020 – 6:30 P.M.
The City Council of the City of Azusa met in regular session at the above date and time in the Azusa Auditorium located
at 213 E. Foothill Boulevard, Azusa, CA 91702. This meeting was held via teleconference only.
Mayor Gonzales called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo.
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ALSO PRESENT
Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo.
Staff Members: City Manager Gonzalez, City Attorney Martinez, Director of Administrative Services Johnson, Director
of Economic and Community Development Marquez, Neighborhood Services Coordinator Quiroz, and Chief Deputy City
Clerk Garcia.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None given.
CLOSED SESSION
The City Council recessed to closed session at 6:33 P.M. to discuss the following:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS - Pursuant to California Government Code, Section
54957.6.
City Negotiator: Sergio Gonzalez, City Manager and Talika Johnson, Director of Administrative Services
Organizations: SEIU (Service Employees International Union- Local 721), ACEA (Azusa City
Employees Association), APOA (Azusa Police Officers Association), and CAPP
(Civilian Association of Police Personnel).
2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS – Pursuant to California Government Code,
Section 54956.8.
City Negotiators: Sergio Gonzalez, City Manager
Property Address: 3.5 acre parcel located north of the Los Angeles County spreading grounds, which are
north of Sierra Madre and west of Azusa APNs 8684-013-909
Negotiating Parties: Carlos Ramos, NOWON, LLC.
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms for Lease
3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS – Pursuant to California Government Code,
Section 54956.8.
City Negotiators: Sergio Gonzalez, City Manager
City Property Address: 600-622 N. San Gabriel Ave. (APNs 8611-004-902, 903, 904, 905, 906, 907, 912, 913).
Successor Agency: 624-630 N. San Gabriel Ave. (APNs 8611-004-914)
Negotiating Parties: MW Investment Group, LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms
4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Pursuant to California
Government Code, Section 54956.9(d)(2).
1 Possible Case: Liability Claim No. 3000375 Café Cultura Sewer Spill
Agency Claimed Against: City of Azusa
REGULAR SESSION
Mayor Gonzales called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Alvarez.
CITY COUNCIL ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo.
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
UTILITY BOARD ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by Secretary Cornejo.
PRESENT: BOARDMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
ABSENT: BOARDMEMBERS: NONE
ALSO PRESENT
Elected Officials: City Clerk/Secretary Cornejo.
Staff Members: City Manager Gonzalez, City Attorney Martinez, Chief of Police Bertelsen, Director of Economic and
Community Development Marquez, Director of Administrative Services Johnson, Director of Utilities Robledo, Director
of Public Works/City Engineer Delgadillo, Director of Community Resources Carpenter, Police Captain Landeros, Police
Captain Grant, Planning Manager Munoz, Economic Development Specialist Campos, Neighborhood Services
Coordinator Quiroz, and Chief Deputy City Clerk Garcia.
The invocation was given by Pastor Tony Rodriguez, Ministerio International Nuevo Nacimiento en Jesus Cristo.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
The City Council reconvened at 7:35 P.M.; City Attorney Martinez announced the following regarding Closed Session:
Item 1 – The Council did not get a chance to discuss the item and it will be carried over to July 20, Staff will be sending
an update via email so there is no need to come back and discuss the Item prior to July 20; Item 2 and Item 3 – The City
Council heard a presentation from its agency negotiators, Council provided direction, no reportable action; Item 4 – City
Council heard a presentation from Staff and the City Attorney’s Office, Council provided direction, no additional
reportable action.
CEREMONIAL
1. An Employee of the Quarter Certification for Quarter I of 2020 was presented to Jeffrey Barnes, Community
Improvement Inspector.
2. The Graduating Class of 2020 Azusa, Gladstone, and Sierra High Schools were recognized.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Stephanie Martenzi expressed concerns regarding a lack of transparency and lack of communication to residents regarding
resources related to the pandemic and dissemination of information; expressed concerns with the notice of special meeting
not being posted on Facebook; requested that the City develop a communication plan; expressed concerns regarding the
cost of placing of a rotational Mayor position on the ballot during a pandemic and the need for public education regarding
the matter; and expressed concerns regarding not reading emailed public comments out loud during the meeting.
Sabrina Bow expressed her opposition to the proposed conversion of the Mayor position to a rotational Mayor; stated that
due to the pandemic, it is not the time to take action on such a matter; the funds expended on this matter could be used to
help small businesses and city programs; stated that she started an online petition in opposition to a rotational Mayor and
has 431 signatures from residents; and requested that the City Council model transparency and adhere to the highest
ethical values.
James Taite expressed his opposition of a rotational Mayor as it allows for the potential of cronyism and also will reward
of a Mayor that does not have the confidence to do the job; the elected Mayor position creates accountability; and the
spending of $100k on this item is wasteful.
Alexandra Muniz inquired about the timing of the rotational Mayor item that was brought forth; stated that the item has
been rushed while residents are preoccupied; and requested that the item not be placed on the agenda or on the ballot.
Diana Williams expressed her opposition of the placement of the rotational Mayor on the ballot; the measure only impacts
those individuals that are running for office; stated that the community deserves to be part of the discussion to see where
they stand on the issue; staff time and tax dollars should not be wasted on something that benefits only a few; and
requested that it be considered for the March election to allow the community to discuss it.
PAGE TWO – 6/15/2020
Vivian Alderete expressed her opposition to placing the rotational Mayor item on the ballot at this time; the funds that
would be used to do so could be used to fix the infrastructure, help homeless, or help schools; and the item can wait until
2022.
The following public comments were submitted via email but were not read aloud at the meeting.
Rena Galvez expressed opposition to placing the rotational Mayor item on a special election ballot and requested that it be
placed on the regular ballot.
Joshua Casper expressed concerns regarding a rotating Mayor position stating that citizens need the ability to vote for
Mayor.
Natalie Lydick expressed opposition to a special election for a rotational Mayor stating that converting the position to
rotational infringes upon public opinion and is financially irresponsible.
Libertad Rodriguez expressed opposition to a rotational Mayor position stating that there is greater accountability with a
2-year Mayor term; inquired about who raised the issue, the timing of the issue, the value of the change, and whether a
formal process will be implemented; inquired about the discussion that took place during the April 6, 2020 meeting; and
stated that the citizens deserve an open discussion.
Jorge V. Rosales expressed frustration and disappointment to not being able to obtain responses to questions relative to
the proposed budget prior to the meeting; inquired about the projected budget shortfalls for the next five years beginning
with the 2019/20 budget; inquired about the increase in projected reserves and whether the information was misleading;
and inquired the increase in proposed revenue and expenditures for 2020/21.
Selisa Loeza expressed opinions regarding the rotational Mayor stating that the issue is not of sound value when the City
is in a projected deficit and the impact of Covid on the economy; funding should go towards resources to benefit
homelessness, youth, and small businesses; suggested a study of pros and cons; and the rotational Mayor and Deputy City
Manager position are not essential spending at this moment.
Rick Chong expressed opposition to the conversion of an elected Mayor to rotational Mayor stating that it is the citizens
right to elect public officials based on merit rather than seniority.
Sabrina Bow submitted a petition in opposition to a rotational Mayor which was signed by over 400 individuals.
REPORTS, UPDATES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM STAFF/COUNCIL
City Manager Gonzalez stated that in accordance with the County Health Department’s Order, in-person public comment
was made available, however the public is not able to remain in the auditorium for the duration of the meeting, and
apologized for the inconvenience; the rotational mayor item was not on the agenda as Staff does not have a good cost
estimate from the County, the item will be brought before the Council on July 20; concerns regarding social media
presence and lack of transparency are taken seriously; the special budget meeting that was held the day after Memorial
Day occurs annually, budget study sessions are traditionally held after the May Utility Board Meeting, it is called a
Special Meeting because it is not held on the Regular Meeting schedule of first and third Monday of the month; the City
does not use Facebook to put out official City notices, but rather post information on the City website and City Hall
courtyard; and Staff has been transparent in the posting of agendas and also in obtaining community input in terms of
public meetings.
COVID-19 STATUS UPDATE
City Manager Gonzalez provided an update on Covid-19 stating that there are 279 positive cases in the City of Azusa;
City Hall is starting to open for in-person business; it is recommended that residents take advantage of online services;
safety accommodations such as plexi-glass at public counters, social distancing stickers, and personal protection
equipment; City Hall will be closing at 4:00 p.m. to allow for time to clean high touch areas; the new health order took
effect on June 12, the City received information on June 11 at 7:00 p.m., which was five hours prior to things opening up
and Staff is trying to disseminate that information as quickly as possible.
Economic Development Specialist Campos provided an overview of business that are open and those that are closed in
accordance with the County guidelines stating that on June 12, 2020, the County revised the health order to move from
into Stage 3 which allows for the reopening of fitness facilities, museums, campgrounds, hotels, and film production;
protocols are posted on both the City and County website and must be followed by open businesses; higher risk businesses
such as bars, movie theaters, and personal care establishments will continue to be closed; City businesses must follow
County guidelines in order to open safely. An overview of the ways that Staff provides assistance to businesses and
available programs was provided.
Director of Public Works/City Engineer Delgadillo provided an overview of park facilities stating that parks are open for
active use, park restrooms are open and are cleaned twice each day, plexi-glass has been added to all public counters,
additional hand soap dispensers have been installed at park facilities; tennis courts have been opened; and baseball fields
and basketball courts are to remain closed.
PAGE THREE – 6/15/2020
Director of Community Resources Carpenter provided information from the Department of Public Health regarding park
amenities stating that playground equipment are closed; a virtual recreation program has been implemented; once
gathering sizes can be increased, in person activities can be increased; public pools can be opened, however, there are very
strict guidelines regarding the number of people per lifeguard and sanitation which impacts the ability to open the pool;
rental facilities and public facilities, with the exception of City Hall, are closed due to gathering restrictions; and
basketball, baseball, and youth sports leagues are not yet able to open.
In response to questions posed by the Council, Director of Community Resources Carpenter stated that the closure of
playground equipment is a County requirement; picnic areas are closed, and the City is not encouraging large groups to
gather at parks; park ambassadors are doing their best to educate the community regarding park amenities and signage is
also posted; and houses of worship are allowed to be open with limited capacity, however those churches that rent
community facilities are not able to do so at this time due to County guidelines.
Mayor Pro-Tem Macias inquired about an Alcoholic Beverage Control application received for a liquor store and the
process for handling them.
Chief of Police Bertelsen responded to the inquiry stating that the Police Department has designated Staff that reviews the
applications to determine whether the application is for a new business or transfer of ownership; in this case, it is believed
that it is for a transfer of ownership; the application notice provides the City the opportunity to work with Alcoholic
Beverage Control to determine whether there are any issues with the business or license limitations; and he will contact
Alcoholic Beverage Control to determine if they have any best practices regarding public comment on licenses and will
provide that information to the Council.
Mayor Pro-Tem Macias congratulated Mr. Jeff Barnes for the Employee of the Quarter award; congratulated the Class of
2020; and inquired about the process for how the graduation signs were ordered.
City Manager Gonzalez explained the process stating that the bid process depends on the threshold; the cost of the signs
was under $5,000 which is considered an informal bid; three quotes are solicited and the lowest bidder gets the job; and
Staff typically handles the process.
Mayor Pro-Tem Macias expressed concerns regarding the reason why Mayor Gonzales was soliciting the bids and
requesting that they be sent to him; inquired about whether street sweeping and parking enforcement was in place.
Chief of Police Bertelsen stated that Staff began notifying the community in May that parking citations for street
sweeping and preferred parking violations would begin on June 1; Public Works has completed the update of the parking
signs to reflect the current hours.
Mayor Pro-Tem Macias thanked Economic Development Specialist Campos for the information provided to the residents;
requested clarification regarding whether restaurants with bars and full bars are allowed to open.
City Manager Gonzalez stated that stand-alone bars are not permitted to be open; and restaurants with bars can open with
restrictions.
Mayor Pro-Tem Macias wished everyone a Happy 4th of July and reminded people to adhere to restrictions; and requested
that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Mr. Charlie Lopez and Mrs. Trini Lopez, life-long Azusa residents.
Councilmember Alvarez congratulated Jeff Barnes for being awarded as Employee of the Quarter; congratulated the
graduates that attended the meeting as representatives of their schools; wished everyone a Happy 4th of July; and provided
an update of the Foothill Transit meeting he attended in May stating that they are maintaining services at 80% and are
experiencing a 60-70% reduction in ridership, some lines were canceled, more information is available on the Foothill
Transit website.
Councilmember Avila congratulated all Azusa Unified School District graduates and commended District Staff for the
drive through graduations; commended the Azusa Police Department for the great job during the two protests that were
held in the City; thanked Pastor Anthony Powell of Redeemed Life Church for taking leadership during protest on June 2;
wished his colleagues a Happy Father’s Day; wished his Dad, Ralph Avila, a Happy Father’s Day; and inquired about
whether there has been in increase in citations for illegal fireworks.
Chief of Police Bertelsen provided an update on fireworks stating that there has been in increase if fireworks related calls
for service; Officers are taking enforcement when they can; citations have been issued and one arrest has been made; there
will be undercover officers and officers in marked units on patrol during 4th of July weekend; and Staff is working with
the Sheriff’s Department to build resources for the unincorporated area of Azusa.
Councilmember Mendez congratulated Jeff Barnes for being awarded as Employee of the Quarter; congratulated the Class
of 2020; applauded the School District for the drive-through graduation; congratulated the three individuals that
represented their schools; wished a Happy Father’s Day to all of the fathers; and wished a Happy 4th of July to everyone.
PAGE FOUR – 6/15/2020
Mayor Gonzales thanked Staff for arranging for the students to attend the meeting to give their commencement speeches;
congratulated the graduates; thanked the Staff for putting together the drive-through graduation; wished everyone a Happy
Father’s Day; encouraged residents to contact the Police Department should they see someone lighting illegal fireworks;
and wished his wife a Happy 1st Anniversary.
SCHEDULED ITEMS – CITY COUNCIL
PUBLIC HEARING TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS OR
OBLIGATIONS BY THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY FOR THE PURPOSE OF
FINANCING THE ACQUISITION, IMPROVEMENT, INSTALLATION, REHABILITATION, EQUIPPING AND
FURNISHING OF HEALTHCARE FACILITIES AND CERTAIN OTHER MATTERS RELATING THERETO
Director of Administrative Services Johnson presented the Staff Report stating that this item is not an action of the City;
the City is not issuing any bonds but acting as a liaison to hold a Public Hearing for a non-profit, OneLegacy, which
specializes in organ, eye, and tissue donations.
Mayor Gonzales declared the hearing open.
City Clerk Cornejo read the affidavit of proof of publication published on June 8, 2020, in the San Gabriel Valley
Tribune.
Public Comment
None.
Moved by Mayor Pro-Tem Macias, seconded by Councilmember Avila and carried by the unanimous vote of the Council
to close the Public Hearing.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
Councilmember Avila offered Resolution No. 2020-C27 entitled:
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA APPROVING A PLAN OF FINANCE FOR THE
ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS OR OBLIGATIONS BY THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE
AUTHORITY IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $55,000,000 FOR THE PURPOSE
OF FINANCING THE ACQUISITION, IMPROVEMENT, INSTALLATION, REHABILITATION, AND/OR
EQUIPPING OF A HEALTHCARE FACILITY FOR THE BENEFIT OF ONELEGACY AND ONELEGACY
FOUNDATION, AND CERTAIN OTHER MATTERS RELATING THERETO
Moved by Councilmember Avila, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Macias, and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to
adopt Resolution No. 2020-C27 approving the issuance of the Obligations by the Authority for the benefit of the
Borrowers, to provide for the financing of the Project, such adoption is solely for the purposes of satisfying the
requirements of TEFRA, the Code and the California Government Code Section 6500 et seq.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
PUBLIC HEARING – INTRODUCE FIRST READING OF DRAFT ORDINANCE FOR CODE AMENDMENT NO.
247 TO AMEND SECTION 88.42.190 OF THE AZUSA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS (ADUs) AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (JADUs) AND INTRODUCE FIRST
READING OF DRAFT ORDIANNCE FOR CODE AMENDMENT NO. 248 TO INTRODUCE A NEW SECTION
(88.51.034) TO THE AZUSA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO DISCRETIONARY ACCESSORY DWELLING
UNIT (ADU) PERMITS
Director of Economic and Community Development Marquez requested that the Public Hearing be continued to the July
20, 2020 City Council Meeting; Staff has received correspondence regarding the Ordinance and would like to
appropriately address all of the concerns raised.
Mayor Gonzales declared the hearing open.
City Clerk Cornejo read the affidavit of proof of publication published on June 5, 2020, in the San Gabriel Valley
Tribune. One correspondence, which Mr. Marquez referred to, was received and provided to the Council.
Public Comment
None.
PAGE FIVE – 6/15/2020
Moved by Councilmember Mendez, seconded by Councilmember Alvarez and carried by the unanimous vote of the
Council to continue the Public Hearing to July 20, 2020.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
PUBLIC HEARING – RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL FINDING THAT THE ACTION IS NOT A PROJECT
SUBJECT TO CEQA AND ADOPTING THE PROPOSED VEHICLE MILES TRAVELLED THRESHOLDS OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Director of Economic and Community Development Marquez presented the Staff Report stating that the item is in
reference to updates in State law in the way transportation impact analysis is to be conducted pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); SB 743 eliminates Level of Service as the basis for determining transportation
impacts under CEQA and requires the use of Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) instead; and the State is shifting the focus of
CEQA traffic analysis from measuring a project’s impact on automobile delay to measuring the amount and distance of
automobile travel that is attributable to a project.
Mr. Miguel Nunez, Fehr and Peers, presented information regarding SB 743 and what it entails.
In response to questions posed by the Council, Mr. Nunez stated that SB 743 states that the City is the lead agency under
CEQA, however it is all under State law; the California Air Resources Board provide research to the State to help set
targets; there are Counties, Cities, and agencies that not ready to adopt by July 1; there have been agencies and Counties
that have expressed oppositions and asked to delay implementation, however the deadline continues to be July 1; and the
burden will be greater for those cities that have not yet gone through the process due to the lack of clarity about
requirements.
Mayor Gonzales declared the hearing open.
City Clerk Cornejo read the affidavit of proof of publication published on June 5, 2020, in the San Gabriel Valley
Tribune.
Public Comment
None.
Moved by Councilmember Alvarez, seconded by Councilmember Avila, and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to
close the Public Hearing.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
Councilmember Avila offered Resolution No. 2020-C29 entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ADOPTING “VEHICLE MILES
TRAVELED” THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR PURPOSES OF ANALYZING TRANSPORTATION
IMPACTS UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT AND FINDING THE SAME NOT A
PROJECT SUBJECT TO THE ACT
Moved by Councilmember Avila, seconded by Councilmember Mendez, and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to
adopt Resolution No. 2020-C29 recommending that the City Council find that the action is exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and adopt the proposed thresholds of significance.
ADOPTION OF FISCAL YEAR 2020/24 CITY, UTILITIES, PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND
SUCCESSOR AGENCY OPERATING AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN BUDGETS AND GENERAL FUND
RESERVE POLICY
Director of Administrative Services Johnson presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2020/21 operating and capital
improvement budget plans for both the General Fund and Citywide Funds stating that a budget study session took place
on May 26; based on comments provided by the Council, Staff added $40k to the Public Safety Budget for additional
traffic enforcement/mitigation measures; added all department’s personnel requests as presented; and added in all
department’s capital outlay requests as presented; and a recap of the items discussed during the budget study session was
provided.
General Fund highlights include a forecasted $2.1M deficit due to anticipated impacts surrounding Covid-19; Staff
recommends that the projected deficit be funded by reserves; and the uncommitted reserve balance is expected to decrease
to $14.8M by the end of the fiscal year.
PAGE SIX – 6/15/2020
Recommended Reserve Policy updates include the following: Budget Stabilization and Catastrophic Event from 15% to
20% of budget or $9.8M, continue to set the reserve for Capital and Infrastructure Replacement at $1.5M, increase the
Insurance category from $1.0M to $1.5M, and increase the Retiree Benefits category from $1.5M to $2.0M; should the
changes be approved, it is projected that FY 2020/21 would end with $14.8M in reserves.
General Fund Proposed Revenues include a projected $2M increase in revenues due the passage of Measure Z. General
Fund Proposed Expenditures includes a $48.8M budget with a projected $2.2M increase to expenditures.
The City has very low outstanding debt; 2021 is the final year of 2003 Certificates of Participation bonds; and the Water
Fund loan may be eliminated with the pending issuance of Pension Obligation Bonds.
FY 2020/21 Citywide Budget is $177,311,488; major funds include Internal Services, Special Revenues, Debt Service,
and Enterprise; Citywide revenues and transfers-in is $165,579,923; and Citywide budget personnel requests are
$211,135.
The Citywide proposed Five-Year Capital Improvement Program budget is $11.8M of which $30k is funded from the
General Fund for tenant improvements at The Promenade at Citrus, $9.4 M are funded from non-General Fund sources,
and $2.4M are unfunded.
In response to questions posed by the Council, Chief of Police Bertelsen stated that there are currently 61 positions in the
Police Department, 55 of those are filled; of the 55 currently staffed there are 3 in the Academy, 1 in training, 1 deployed
in the military, and several on medical leave; adding the $40k to the budget will allow additional funding for traffic
enforcement; Staff is trying to get the vacancies filled as fast as possible; and at this time, Staff is looking at the best ways
to utilize the $40k for traffic enforcement.
City Manager Gonzalez added that an Item will be presented on July 20 which will discuss how requests from residents
regarding speeding issues, parking issues, and line of sight issues are considered; Public Works currently has $100k
budgeted for traffic studies and treatments to alleviate the situations; the $40k for the Police Department is in addition to
that; Staff will prioritize the areas that receive the most complaints, study the area, and bring the issue to the Council with
solutions.
Discussion ensued regarding traffic enforcement officers; how the $40k will be allocated; and how the amount $40k was
derived.
Councilmember Avila offered the following Resolutions entitled:
Resolution No. 2020-C30
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ADOPTING THE BUDGET AND
APPROVING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE CITY OF AZUSA FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1,
2020 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2021
Resolution No. 2020-UB02
A RESOLUTION OF THE UTILITY BOARD OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ADOPTING THE BUDGET AND
APPROVING APPROPRIATIONS FOR UTLITIES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2020 AND
ENDING JUNE 30, 2021
Resolution No. 2020-P01
A RESOLUTION OF THE PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ADOPTING THE
BUDGET AND APPROVING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE AUTHORITY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
COMMENCING JULY 1, 2020 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2021
Resolution No. 2020-R08
A RESOLUTION OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY FOR THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE
CITY OF AZUSA ADOPTING THE BUDGET AND APPROVING APPROPRIATIONS FOR REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2020 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2021
Resolution No. 2020-C37
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ADOPTING A REVISED GENERAL FUND RESERVE POLICY
Moved by Councilmember Avila, seconded by Councilmember Mendez, and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to
adopt Resolutions 2020-C30, 2020-UB02, 2020-P01, 2020-R08, and 2020-C37.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
PAGE SEVEN – 6/15/2020
POLICY DIRECTION REGARDING THE PROCESS FOR REVIEWING APPLICATIONS FOR LEGISLATIVE
ZONING ACTIONS
Director of Economic and Community Development Marquez presented the Staff Report stating that the Council directed
Staff to explore options for reviewing applications for legislative zoning actions in order for Council to have the
opportunity to evaluate the applications at an earlier stage of the review process; currently, the Council reviews
applications after they have been vetted by Staff and reviewed by the Planning Commission; Staff has developed a
proposed policy in which the Council initially reviews the application at the conclusion of the preliminary plan review
process and prior to review by the Planning Commission; and the proposed policy would give Staff the ability to seek
Council direction on whether they should commit substantial resources to potentially make changes to the General Plan or
Specific Plan; and an overview of the existing and proposed policies were provided.
In response to questions posed by the Council, Director of Economic and Community Development Marquez stated that it
takes roughly 6 weeks to get through the preliminary plan review process to the development review committee; at that
point it goes to the Planning Commission; generally it takes 3-6 months for the process to take place; with the proposed
policy, the application will be presented to the Council in approximately 6-8 weeks after the preliminary plan review is
conducted; this policy would apply to General Plan Amendments, Specific Plans, and Zone Changes.
City Attorney Martinez added that the proposed policy would be giving the Council the opportunity to provide direction
for the application to proceed; should the Council not wish to proceed with the project, it provides financial relief to the
applicant as large projects can cost up to $200k for CEQA and EIR documents.
Moved by Mayor Pro-Tem, seconded by Councilmember Mendez, and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to direct
Staff to implement the proposed policy for reviewing applications for legislative zoning actions such as General Plan
Amendments, Specific Plans, and Zone Changes.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
CONSENT CALENDAR: Moved by Councilmember Avila, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Macias and carried by
unanimous vote of the Council, to approve Consent Calendar Items E-1 to E-20, with the exception of Item E-13 which
was handled under the Special Call portion of the agenda.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
1. The minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 18, 2020 and Special Meeting of June 4, 2020 were approved as written.
2. Resolution No. 2020-C31 was adopted and entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND
DEMANDS AND SPECIFYING THE FUNDS OUT OF WHICH THE SAME ARE TO BE PAID.
3. The Human Resources Action Items, in accordance with the City of Azusa Civil Service Rules Section 5.75 and
applicable Memorandum of Understanding(s), were approved as follows:
Merit Increase and/or Regular Appointment: A. Quijas, R. Aguirre, E. Bobadilla, M. De Graaf, C. Solis, R. Jaramillo,
R. Camarena, G. Carlos, R. Gamero-Camacho, A. Garcia
New Appointments: J. Bitoni, L. Salazar
Promotion: J. Stewart
Separations/Retirements: K. Rios, R. Rivas.
4. Amendment No. One to Agreement with Valley Services, Inc. dba Bateman Community Living was approved; the
City Manager was authorized to execute the agreement, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney; and necessary
budget amendments were approved and the current fiscal year budget and blanket purchase order were adjusted
accordingly.
5. The grant award from the California State Library for the Career On-line High School Program was accepted; and
necessary budget amendments were approved; and the current fiscal year budget was adjusted accordingly.
6. The City Treasurer’s Report of Receipts, Disbursements and Fund Balances for the months of January 2020 through
March 2020 was received, reviewed, and filed.
7. Resolution No. 2020-C32 was adopted and entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR,
AND RECEIPT OF, LOCAL GOVERNMENT PLANNING SUPPORT GRANTS PROGRAM FUNDS
and, Staff was authorized to submit a completed LEAP Grant application to the California Housing and Community
Development Department (HCD), on behalf of the City.
PAGE EIGHT – 6/15/2020
8. A Contract was awarded to 2A Construction of Santa Ana, California for Consumer Services Project West Wing
Building Remodel WWBR-2020-01 in a total not-to-exceed amount of $209,500.00, plus an allowance of $20,950.00
for potential change; the Mayor was authorized to execute the document on behalf of the City; and a Purchase order
was approved to Catalyst in an amount not-to-exceed $93,786.51, plus an allowance of $9,378.00 for potential change
orders for furniture.
9. The Performance Bond in the amount of $2,001,364 for Tract 54057-1 in the Rosedale Community was released.
10. The Downtown Sidewalk Dining Pilot Program was approved; and the associated Encroachment Permit fee
requirement was waived.
11. Resolution No. 2020-C33 was adopted and entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA APPROVING PARTICIPATION IN THE
LOS ANGELES URBAN COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM BY
ENTERING INTO A THREE-YEAR COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
and the City Manager was authorized to execute any and all documents necessary for participation in the Los Angeles
Urban County CDBG Program.
12. The Grading Surety Bond in the amount of $25,000 for Tract 74154, Lots 1-7 in the Rosedale Community were
released.
13. Special Call.
14. Resolution No. 2020-C35 was adopted and entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA APPROVING EXECUTION OF THE
SAN GABRIEL VALLEY REGIONAL HOUSING TRUST (SGVRHT) JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT.
15. The list of purchase orders issued in May 2020 with contract agreements executed by the City Manager was received,
reviewed and filed.
16. Staff was authorized to circulate a Request for Proposals for a Citywide Objective Design Standards.
17. Resolution No. 2020-C36 was adopted and entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA EXTENDING THE EXISTENCE OF A
LOCAL EMERGENCY REGARDING NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19).
18. The issuance of Blanket Purchase Orders in an amount of $25,000 or more as outlined in Sec. 2-518 (a) of the Azusa
Municipal Code for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 were approved.
19. The City Treasurer’s Report of Cash and Investment Balances for the month of April 2020 was received, reviewed,
and filed.
20. Resolution No. 2020-C38 was adopted and entitled:
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AND
ADOPTING THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2020-21 IN THE AMOUNT
OF $359,616,930.
SPECIAL CALL
CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION SETTING THE NUMBER OF TRANSITIONAL FIREWORKS SALES
PERMITS AVAILABLE FOR 2020
At the request of the Council, Neighborhood Services Coordinator Quiroz, will make a correction to the 2020 Transitional
Permits as the Azusa National Little League is now Azusa Little League Baseball.
Mayor Gonzales offered Resolution No. 2020-C34 entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA, CALIFORNIA, TO ESTABLISH THE
NUMBER OF TRANSITIONAL FIREWORKS SALES PERMITS AUTHORIZED IN 2020
Moved by Mayor Gonzales, seconded by Councilmember Alvarez, and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to adopt
Resolution No. 2020-C34 setting at five the number of transitional fireworks sales permits available for 2020.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
PAGE NINE – 6/15/2020
SUCCESSOR AGENCY RELATED BUSINESS
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF WARRANTS BY THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY DATED MAY 14,
2020 THROUGH JUNE 10, 2020
Agencymember Avila offered Resolution No. 2020-R09 entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY OF THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY
OF AZUSA ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS TO BE PAID OUT OF SUCCESSOR AGENCY
FUNDS
Moved by Agencymember Avila, seconded by Agencymember Macias and carried by unanimous vote of the Agency to
adopt Resolution No. 2020-R09.
AYES: AGENCY MEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: AGENCY MEMBERS: NONE
ADJOURNMENT – CITY COUNCIL
RECONVENE - UTILITY BOARD
REPORTS – UTILITY BOARD
APPROVAL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA WILDFIRE MITIGATION PLAN DATED JUNE 15, 2020
Director of Utilities Robledo presented the Azusa Wildfire Mitigation Plan stating that 10% of California fires are caused
by down powerlines; the California Legislature has passed a requirement that all electric utilities have a Wildfire
Mitigation Plan produced and approved by the governing body; the Wildfire Mitigation Plan, which was approved by the
City Council in December 2019, has since been reviewed through an independent evaluation and minor revisions have
been made; the map now used is from the California Public Utilities Commission which has less fire threat area than the
previous plan; 100% of the facilities in the fire threat area are underground and are less likely to cause a fire as they are
not exposed to weather and are insulated from contact; the only action needed is an annual inspection which is completed
routinely; the plan has been revised to include these changes and the independent evaluator, Guidehouse Inc., has
concluded that the plan is comprehensive and in full compliance with State law.
Moved by Boardmember Mendez, seconded by Boardmember Alvarez, and carried by unanimous vote of the Board to
approve the revised City of Azusa Wildfire Mitigation Plan dated June 15, 2020; and receive and file the independent
evaluation report prepared by Guidehouse, Inc. that concluded that the City of Azusa Wildfire Mitigation plan is
comprehensive and meets the statutory requirements of California Public Utilities Code Section 8387.
AYES: BOARDMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: BOARDMEMBERS: NONE
CONSENT CALENDAR – UTILITY BOARD Moved by Boardmember Gonzales, seconded by Boardmember Mendez
and carried by unanimous vote of the Board, to approve Consent Calendar Items H-1 to H-10.
AYES: BOARDMEMBERS: GONZALES, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ
NOES: BOARDMEMBERS: NONE
1. The minutes of the Utility Board of May 18, 2020 were approved.
2. A Waterworks Materials Purchase Agreement for an Integrated Supply System for Waterworks Materials and Fittings
with United Water Works, Inc. was approved in an annual amount not to exceed $280,000; and the Mayor was
authorized to execute the Agreement.
3. A one year extension of the May 22, 2017 Agreement for Well and Booster Pump Maintenance Services, with
General Pump Company, to be effective July 1, 2020 was approved.
4. The Award of a Contract to Inland Mechanical Services, Inc. of Corona, California for the retrofit and renovation of
the HVAC systems and controls servicing the south wing of the City of Azusa Police Department Headquarters was
approved; and the Mayor was authorized to execute the Contract.
5. The 2019 Power Source Disclosure Program Annual Report was approved; the 2019 Power Content Label was
approved; and the Director of Utilities was authorized to execute and submit the Power Source Disclosure Program
Attestation Form.
PAGE TEN – 6/15/2020
6. The Azusa Light and Water Consumer Services Lobby Remodel Project, as outlined in IDS 16x057.00 Plans and
Specifications were accepted; the Notice of Completion was approved; the Mayor was authorized to execute the
document on behalf of the City; the City Clerk was authorized to submit the Notice of Completion to the Office of the
County Recorder of Los Angeles County, within ten days of the Utility Board approval for recordation, as required by
Section 3093 of the California Civil Code.
7. The 2020 SB 1037 Report – 2020 Light & Water Customer Energy Efficiency Report was received and filed.
8. The cancellation of the Regular Utility Board meetings schedule for June 22, 2020, July 27, 2020, and August 24,
2020 were approved.
9. The lease of two Bigbelly trash/recycling receptacles for a 60-month term was approved; and the Director of Utilities
was authorized to execute the Lease Agreement.
10. The Annual Adjustment of Replacement Water Cost Adjustment Factor information report was received and filed.
TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 10:15 P.M.
__________________________________________
CITY CLERK
NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2020-C39 (City)
NEXT ORDINANCE NO. 2020-03
NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2020-R10 (Former Redevelopment Agency)
NEXT MEETINGS: July 20, 2020 and August 17, 2020.
PAGE ELEVEN – 6/15/2020