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Home My WebLink AboutE-1 - Minutes Regular Meeting, February 21, 2023CITY OF AZUSA MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL, THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, THE PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023 – 6:30 P.M. The City Council of the City of Azusa met in Closed and Regular session at Azusa Auditorium located at 213 E. Foothill Blvd., Azusa, CA 91702. CLOSED SESSION Mayor Gonzales called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo. PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ, AVILA Jr., ALVAREZ, BECKWITH, GONZALES ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ALSO PRESENT Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo. Staff Members: City Manager Gonzalez, Assistant City Attorney Castillo, Chief of Police Wenrick, Director of Administrative Services Johnson, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Delgadillo, Deputy City Manager DeAnda- Scaia, Director of Community Resources Carpenter, IT and Library Services Director Graf, Director of Economic & Community Development Jimenez, Chief Deputy City Clerk Garcia, and Planning Consultant Vizcarra. SCHEDULED ITEM 1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION - Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 54956.9(d)(1). Case Name: Praxedes E. Running et al v. Covina Irrigating Company et al.; L.A. County Sup. Court Case No. BC623542 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION None REGULAR MEETING Mayor Gonzales called the meeting to order at 7:30 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo. PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ, AVILA Jr., ALVAREZ, MAYOR PRO-TEM BECKWITH, MAYOR GONZALES ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ALSO PRESENT Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo. Staff Members: City Manager Gonzalez, Assistant City Attorney Castillo, Chief of Police Wenrick, Director of Administrative Services Johnson, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Delgadillo, Deputy City Manager DeAnda- Scaia, Director of Community Resources Carpenter, IT and Library Services Director Graf, Director of Economic & Community Development Jimenez, Chief Deputy City Clerk Garcia, and Planning Consultant Vizcarra. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Club Pack 777. CONSENT ITEM E-1 City Council February 21, 2023 Page | 2 The Invocation was led by Pastor Daniel Simonson of the Christbridge Immanuel Church. CLOSED SESSION REPORT Assistant City Attorney Castillo reported there was a Closed Session and there were no reportable actions at that time. CEREMONIAL None PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Emily Wahl, Student Government Senator for Azusa Pacific University, provided university updates on upcoming events, all of which can be found on their website at https://www.apu.edu; extended an invitation to City Council and the community to join them at their upcoming annual event The Table which is scheduled in March. Information will be provided by emailing SGA@apu.edu. Student affairs will be opening their food pantry that will be accessible to all students on campus. City Clerk Cornejo stated there were no other speaker cards submitted however there were nine letters of opposition regarding Agenda Item D2 that were received and forward to the members of City Council as well as printed versions that were presented on the Dias. REPORTS, UPDATES, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM STAFF/COUNCIL 1. City Manager Communications. City Manager Gonzalez reported many events are being announced on social media, and highlighted March 27, 2023 in which City Council will be hosting their Golden Priorities Session following the Utilities Board meeting. It will be an opportunity for Council to hear from residents regarding next years goals and priorities as the City moves forward with a two-year budget cycle. The second highlighted event is scheduled for April 20, 2023, City Council will host the Stay of the City at 6:00 p.m. The Mayor will speak, there will be light refreshments, entertainment. and videos highlighting last years accomplishments along with the great plans for future work that can be expected. COUNCIL COMMENTS Mayor Pro-Tem Beckwith wished the Mayor happy birthday and congratulated his colleagues about the great event they held at Casino night. There are many events coming, he encouraged the community to participate. This is a season of celebration for Azusa’s 125th Anniversary which is reflected in the new logo. Congratulations to American Legion Post #180 on their celebration of 97 years, it was an honor to attend that wonderful event. West Covina recently celebrated their 100th year anniversary. Azusa Youth & Family Center will be holding classes for the Azusa Film Academy that will be open to Azusa residents ages 12-17. It will be a six-week program that takes place on Monday evenings at 6:00 p.m. and is scheduled to begin on March 6, 2023. Soroptimist Azusa and Glendora will be hosting an auction brunch on February 25, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. with doors opening at 9:00 a.m. and is scheduled at the Glendora Country Club, with a baseball theme. Councilmember Alvarez wished the Mayor happy birthday and announced that Saturday February 25, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. is the free tire collection event where people can bring scrap tires to be disposed; the event is open to all of Los Angeles county residents and will be in Baldwin Park, 14747 E. Ramona Boulevard. Please pray for the victims of the latest earthquake in Turkey. Councilmember Avila Jr. announced that on February 27, 2023 from 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. bilingual Storytime will take place at the Azusa Library. The Azusa Junior Olympics track and field meet for 2023 will be held at Gladstone High School on Saturday March 25, 2023. The Casino night was their 17th Annual Casino event, and it was a tremendous success. The funds go to Azusa youth programs to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate in sports. It was the most successful event in its 17-year history. February 16, 2023, he attended the West Covina Centennial Celebration. February 18th the American Legion celebrated their 97th year, Congratulations to them. On February 19 he attended the Marie Calendars event with Police Lieutenant Bushey, it was a great event, and he hopes to see them include more Lieutenants in the area. March 12, 2023 Azusa Baseball will be hosting their opening day for Little League Baseball. Councilmember Avila Jr. requested that a Certificate be issued for Sandals Church for their April 2, 2023 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of their new remodeled sanctuary and youth classes. Happy birthday to the Mayor and his thoughts, prayers, and condolences to the Romero family. Mayor Gonzales interjected and invited Congresswoman Grace Napolitano to address the Council. City Council February 21, 2023 Page | 3 Congresswoman Napolitano stated she was visiting Azusa and wanted to offer her services if there was anything that City Council or the community needed. She is a former Mayor and City Councilmember and understands their responsibilities and wanted to offer her assistance. Mayor Gonzales thanked her for taking time out of her schedule to visit the City and commented that she has always been a champion for Azusa, they look to continue that relationship in the future, and very much appreciate funds that Azusa has received in the past due to her hard work. Councilmember Mendez stated a meeting was held with the Rivers and Mountains Conservancy Joint Powers Authority (RMCJPA) to further discuss the dissolution of the JPA. There have been no formal reportable votes, however there were discussions with staff reaffirming City requirements to ensure they still have a seat at the table. Azusa requested for two Councilmembers and the City Manager, or a person he designates, to sit at that table. There will likely be a meeting within the next two to three months which should provide more information to update. Victor Hodge Elementary School and Applebee’s will be hosting a $12 dollar pancake breakfast fundraiser this coming Saturday. Toy Story will be the trivia night on Tuesday February 28, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. at the Azusa Library auditorium. There is a registration link on the flyer. Congratulations to the Mayor and Councilmember Avila Jr. on the incredibly successful Casino Night held at the VFW. Thank you to all the electives who visited from other cities. Many thanks to the staff for the 125th Anniversary logo. Happy birthday to the Mayor. Condolences to the Romero Family for the passing of George Romero. Mayor Gonzales appreciated the birthday wishes from his colleagues. Casino Night was very successful. Check presentations will be scheduled for the Azusa Little League, the Azusa Softball League, and the Azusa General American the Raiders at the next meeting on March 6, 2023 as the Ceremonial part of the Agenda. Friday the Eagle’s will be celebrating the installation of their grand worthy. City Council has been invited to attend that event and he requested a Certificate to present them at 7:00 p.m.; a dinner will be provided before the presentations at 5:00 p.m. The Lemón Zëst restaurant has scheduled a Ribbon Cutting ceremony for February 28, 2023 and invited City Council to participate. They have been in operation since November and wanted to have an official ribbon-cutting at 6:00 p.m. The flyer has 5 p.m. listed however, the actual time will be at 6:00 p.m. City Clerk Cornejo will give a presentation explaining the history of downtown and how it has evolved. Many thanks to Mayor Patty Cortez who represented Upper San Gabriel Valley municipal water district. This past December she was able to acquire four outdoor water filling stations that will be placed around town in city facilities to reduce the amount of single use plastic bottles. She’s not located in Azusa’s district but chose to recognize the relationship she has built with Azusa. Mayor Gonzales inquired about the navigation of the calendar events on the City’s website and requested it be updated on a more regular basis and if possible, more streamlined for an easier user experience. All events with City Council involvement should be listed on the calendar. A representative from Rainbow Corporation has reached out and requested a Certificate for their 90th year celebration as a corporation. He does not yet have details on when that event will be. The Mayor requested a discussion be added to a future Agenda regarding the remaining Federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) funds that were not dispersed last November, for possible disbursement among non-profits, in particular local veteran centers. The Mayor noticed illegal dumping and stated there is no excuse as Athens provides free bulk pick up. He is noticing bulky items being left in front of apartment complexes and in alleys and requested staff research options that would allow the City to hold management companies, landlords, and homeowners responsible for the debris. SCHEDULED ITEMS 1. UPHOLD THE HEARING OFFICER’S DECISION REGARDING PUBLIC NUISANCE AND COST APPEAL REQUEST OF COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT CASE NUMBER 23-H-001-BH FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 300 WEST BANCROFT STREET, AZUSA CALIFORNIA. Recommended Actions: 1) Adopt Resolution No. 2023-C09, in conformance with Article XIV and more specifically Section(s) 14- 417, 14-422 of the Azusa Municipal Code, and uphold the Community Improvement Division Hearing Officer’s decision regarding the Notice of Confirmed Cost, and Intent to Record Tax Lien against property at 300 West Bancroft Street, Azusa, California 91702 Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A Senior Community Officer Brent Hale provided background information regarding the public nuisance and cost recovery determination for 300 West Bancroft Street, Azusa California and responded to Council questions. City Council February 21, 2023 Page | 4 Jose L. Gonzalez, property owner, stated the property is not a rental, he has friends living at the property and that when he requested an extension that request was denied. The violations were against his father and thought that paying the fines would take care of the problem. Ninety percent of the work has been completed, and he has a receipt in which he paid $2,600 dollars and has a tag with a permit number on it and the City is claiming there are no permits on file; and responded to Council questions. Mayor Gonzales and Councilmember Avila Jr. disclosed they drove by the property. City Council directed staff to conduct a current inspection and report back at the March 20, 2023 City Council meeting. Motion by Councilmember Mendez, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith to continue hearing until the March 20, 2023 City Council meeting to resolve the code violations and uphold the Community Improvement Division Hearing Officer’s decision regarding the Notice of Confirmed Cost, with Intent to Record Tax Lien against property at 300 West Bancroft Street, Azusa, California 91702. AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BECKWITH, ALVAREZ, AVILA Jr., MENDEZ, GONZALES NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE 2. UPDATE REGARDING ARTICLE XI OF THE AZUSA MUNICIPAL CODE- REAL PROPERTY RECORDS REPORT Recommended Action: 1) Receive and File; or 2) Provide Additional Direction Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A Economic and Community Development Director Jose Jimenez introduced the Community Improvement Manager Rick McMann who provided an update regarding Article XI of the Azusa Municipal Code – Real Property Records report and responded to Council questions. Councilmembers provided feedback and requested the item be brought back in April with more data and staff recommendations. CONSENT CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL Mayor Gonzales called for any items on the Consent Calendar to be pulled for Special Call. Councilmember Mendez pulled Item 4. Councilmember Alvarez pulled Items 5 - 7. 1. Minutes of the Regular meeting January 17, 2023 was approved as written. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A 2. Resolution No. 2023-C10 allowing certain claims and demands and specifying the funds out of which the same are to be paid was approved. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A 3. Personnel Action Requests in accordance with the City of Azusa Civil Service Rules and applicable Memorandum of Understanding(s); Approve Side Letter of Agreement with the Azusa Civilian Association of Police Personnel related to Double-time for Overtime Pay and Compensatory Time; and Adopt Resolution No. 2023-C11 modifying Police Department Recruitment Bonus Program, adding Police Records positions was approved. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A City Council February 21, 2023 Page | 5 8. An increase to the blanket purchase order for Willdan Engineering to $200,000, and Authorize the City Manager to amend Task Order Willdan 2022-01 to increase the compensation to a not-to-exceed amount of $150,000 was approved. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A. 9. Authorize the City Manager to sign two agreements between the City of Azusa and State of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in a form acceptable to the City Attorney; Accept the funding from Caltrans for two Clean California Community Day Events in amount not-to-exceed $17,000; and Approve necessary budget amendment and adjust the current fiscal year budget accordingly was approved. Total Cost: N/A Is the Cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith, seconded by Councilmember Avila Jr. to approve the Consent Calendar Items E- 1, 2, 3, 8 and 9. AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BECKWITH, MENDEZ, ALVAREZ, AVILA Jr., MAYOR GONZALES NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE SPECIAL CALL Consent Item E-4 4. Professional Services Agreement with Coachman Moore & Associates for All in for Azusa Project Management Services, in an amount not to exceed $92,844; and Authorize the City Manager to execute an Agreement with Coachman Moore & Associates, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City was approved. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A Director of Community Resources Miki Carpenter provided information on the item and responded to Councilmember questions. Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith, seconded by Councilmember Mendez to approve Item E -4. AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BECKWITH, MENDEZ, ALVAREZ, AVILA Jr., MAYOR GONZALES NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE Consent Item E-5 5. A MOU with APU Community Counseling Center for SAMHSA grant deliverables; and Authorize the City Manager to execute the MOU with APU Community Counseling Center, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City was approved. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A Director of Community Resources Miki Carpenter provided information on the item and responded to Councilmember questions. Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith, seconded by Councilmember Mendez to approve Item E -5. AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BECKWITH, MENDEZ, ALVAREZ, AVILA Jr., MAYOR GONZALES NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE City Council February 21, 2023 Page | 6 Consent Item E-6 6. A MOU with San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership for SAMHSA grant deliverables; and Authorize the City Manager to execute the MOU with SGVEP, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A Motion by Councilmember Mendez, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith to approve Item E-6. AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BECKWITH, MENDEZ, ALVAREZ, AVILA Jr., MAYOR GONZALES NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE Consent Item E-7 7. A MOU with YWCA SGV for SAMHSA grant deliverables; and Authorize the City Manager to execute the MOU with YWCA SGV, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City. Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: N/A was approved. Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith, seconded by Councilmember Avila Jr. to approve Item E-7. AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BECKWITH, MENDEZ, ALVAREZ, AVILA Jr. NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: MAYOR GONZALES ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ADJOURNMENT Mayor Gonzales adjourned the meeting in memory of George Romero, a Life-Long Azusa Resident and in solemn honor of those Azusans who lost their lives to Covid-19. TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 9:55 P.M. * Items heard out of order __________________________________________ CITY CLERK NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2023-C12 (City) NEXT ORDINANCE NO. 2022-02 NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2022-R04 (Former Redevelopment Agency) NEXT MEETINGS: March 6, 2023, 6:30 p.m. Closed Session, 7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting March 20, 2023, 6:30 p.m. Closed Session, 7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting