HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-16-2023, Minutes Regular MeetingCITY OF AZUSA
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL, THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY
TO THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY,
THE PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY
REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023 – 7:30 P.M.
The City Council of the City of Azusa met in Closed and Regular session at Azusa Auditorium at 213 E. Foothill
Blvd., Azusa, CA 91702.
CLOSED SESSION
None
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL, THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY, THE PUBLIC
FINANCING AUTHORITY & SPECIAL UTILITY BOARD 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: AVILA Jr., ALVAREZ, MAYOR PRO-TEM BECKWITH, MAYOR
GONZALES
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ
ALSO PRESENT
Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo.
Staff Members: City Manager Gonzalez, Deputy City Attorney Castillo, Deputy City Manager DeAnda-Scaia,
Chief of Police Wenrick, Director of Administrative Services Johnson, Director of Community Resources
Carpenter, Interim Director of IT Guadagnino, Director of Economic & Community Development Jimenez,
Chief Deputy City Clerk Garcia, Library Services Manager Hassen, and Principal Civil Engineer Cabanas.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Senator Susan Rubio.
The Invocation was led by Pastor James Mendoza, Altar Foursquare Church.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Martinez reported City Council did not meet in closed session.
CEREMONIAL
1. 2023 Golden Days Events and Honored Citizens of the Year Presentation.
City Clerk Cornejo as Golden Days Chairman, provided information on the events for the Golden Days
celebration and introduced Andrea Batista, Golden Days Hospitality Chair, who presented Sue Guerra and
Leonard Garza 2023 Golden Days Honorary Citizens of the Year Awards for their outstanding efforts,
contributions, and dedication throughout the years to the City of Azusa.
Ms. Batista presented Mayor Gonzalez, City Council, electives, and the City Manager and staff with hospitality
gifts for their contributions to the Golden Days Celebration.
City Clerk Cornejo recognized the Golden Days Celebration Board for their endless work on the 75th Golden
Days Celebration.
Senator Susan Rubio presented Sue Guerra and Leonard Garza with the California Senate Certificate of
Recognition for their Community Service in the City of Azusa.
City Council October 16, 2023 Page | 2
Mayor Gonzalez advanced to the Legislative Update by Senator Susan Rubio
2. ** Presentation of Proclamation proclaiming the week of October 23-31, 2023 as Red Ribbon Week in the
City of Azusa.
Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith proclaimed the week of October 23-31, 2023 as Red Ribbon Week in the City of
Azusa.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Assistant Fire Chief Mike Inman from LA County reported that the Board of Supervisors of LA County
has proclaimed the month of October as a Fire Prevention Month. This years theme is “Cooking safety
that starts with you” with a goal to educate everyone that there are simple actions that they can take to
keep themselves and those around them safe, while cooking. Fire safety activities for children are
available on LA County’s Fire website www.fire.lacounty.gov. Several cooking safety handouts are
available, along with information about their Ready Set Go program, and family instructions for rapid
escape are also available on the website and the Azusa city website.
David Johnston provided public comment regarding the intersection at North Cerritos and Arrow
Highway. Referencing the events of October 4th, he would like to see all directions of traffic controlled
by stop lights. Three people in the last month have been lost month, with a history of multiple deaths
and accidents in the past. Every major intersection from the 605 Freeway to Grand is four-way
controlled except for this intersection.
Christina Ramerez, Azusa Connects, invited the community to the Golden Days Hidden Horseshoe
Hunt. There are seventeen horseshoes hidden in the paintings that are along Azusa and Foot Hill. In
order to participate you have to register either online on their social media pages Facebook or
Instagram, or by emailing info@azusaconnects.org. Every team that participates and finds all seventeen
horseshoes will be entered into a drawing for the A to Z Basket, where local business from A to Z have
contributed items and the value of the basket is over $500.00.
City Manager Gonzalez responded to Mr. Johnston’s comments at Mayor Gonzales’ request and
reported that as part of the Arrow Highway Improvement project, there will be median upgrades and
road improvements. It is a multi-jurisdiction project that includes left hand turn signals at all
intersections. That particular intersection was in the county’s jurisdiction, however due to the recent
accident, the City of Azusa has taken the lead and has secured a consultant firm that will be installing
the equipment once it is available. In response to Mayor Gonzales’ question, City Manager stated this
project was in the works prior to the very unfortunate accident. They hope to have all the left hand turn
signals installed before the end of the year.
REPORTS, UPDATES, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM STAFF/COUNCIL
1. City Manager Communications.
City Manager Gonzalez reported that in working with their grant writing company Global Urban Strategies, staff
has developed a good partnership and have received a 6.5 million dollar grant from the California State Library.
More information will be coming forward as there are matching fund requirements that City Council will need to
approve and allocate. With this grant writing company Azusa has acquired over 10 million in grants within the
last year.
2. **Legislative Update by Senator Susan Rubio.
Senator Susan Rubio provided a Legislative Update and slide presentation regarding her efforts in Sacramento
for the benefit of the San Gabriel Valley area and the City of Azusa.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith encouraged the community to participate in the great celebration happening this week
for the 75th Anniversary Celebration of Azusa Golden Days. Have fun, be safe, get to know your neighbors; and
find ways to be generous with your time to help others if you see anyone in need.
City Council October 16, 2023 Page | 3
Councilmember Alvarez commented there are many Golden Days events and he hoped everyone can find
something they’d like to participate in. The Veteran’s Day Ceremony will be at City Hall on November 11, 2023
at 11:00 a.m., because that was the day and time the treaty was signed. Former Parks and Recreation
Commissioner Jose Torres passed away recently; Councilmember Alvarez requested a certificate to present to
the family at the Veteran’s Day Ceremony.
Councilmember Avila Jr. congratulated all the non-profits who have had events for Golden Days, so far, he’s
attended all of them. They’ve all contributed a lot of hard work to put this celebration together, they’ve done a
terrific job and there’s been a great attendance. The community has shown up! His favorite moment thus far was
at Saturday’s dance and Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith won the best dressed cowboy award. To the community,
please continue to support these non-profits, at the end of the day all the proceeds from these events will benefit
the community.
Mayor Gonzales congratulated Golden Days and thanked the committee who put it all together. It’s taken a lot of
hard work and commitment, blood sweat and tears that the community does not see. Thanks to Chairman
Cornejo for his endeavors, the success of the event will show how much the community loves and enjoys this
event. Thank you to staff for your hard work. Mayor Gonzales requested a Certificate for Grand Marshall
Fernando Venezuela for Saturday. This is the last meeting before Halloween, everyone be safe out there and
slow your speed down if you have to drive through neighborhoods. Happy Golden Days everyone!
SCHEDULED ITEMS
1. CITY OF AZUSA INVESTMENT POLICY UPDATE
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
1) Adopt the attached Resolution No. 2023-C57, updating the City of Azusa Investment Policy.
Total Cost: N/A Is the Cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
Director of Administrative Services Talika Johnson provided the staff report for Resolution 2023-C57 to update
the City of Azusa Investment Policy and responded to Councilmember questions with [name not provided].
Motion: by Councilmember Avila, Jr., seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith to adopt Resolution No. 2023-
C57, updating the City of Azusa Investment Policy.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: AVILA JR., ALVAREZ, BECKWITH, MAYOR GONZALES
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ
Motion passed 4-0-1 (Mendez Absent)
2. PUBLIC HEARING - CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO
AUTHORIZE OPEN MARKET BOND REPURCHASE OF A PORTION OF THE CITY OF AZUSA’S
OUTSTANDING TAXABLE PENSION OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2020 AND PUBLIC
HEARING AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 GENERAL FUND BUDGET BY $4,000,000.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
1) Adopt Resolution No. 2023-C58, Authorizing Open Market Bond Repurchase of a Portion of its
Outstanding Taxable Pension Obligation Bonds, Series 2020; and
2) Conduct the Public Hearing and receive testimony; and
3) Adopt Resolution No. 2023-C59, Amending the Fiscal Year 2023/24 General Fund Budget By $4,000,000.
Total Cost: $4,000,000 Is the Cost of this item budgeted? No
Fund/Account No: General Fund/ 10-90-000-000-7005
Director Johnson provided the staff report for the consideration of Resolution 2023-C58 authorizing Open
Market Bond Repurchase of a portion of it’s Outstanding Taxable Pension Obligation Bonds, Series 2020 and
Resolution 2023-C59 amending the Fiscal Year 23/24 General Fund Budget by $4,000,000.00 and responded to
Council questions with Michael and City Manager Gonzalez.
Mayor Gonzales opened the Public Hearing and confirmed with City Clerk Cornejo proof of publication for the
notification of the public hearing which was posted in all City locations on October 12, 2023.
City Council October 16, 2023 Page | 4
Deputy City Attorney Castillo stated Resolution 2023-C58 is revised [TIME STAMP 1:09 Audio Cut Out]
Mayor Gonzales asked if it was different than what the Councilmembers were provided to read.
Director Johnson responded there were no substantive changes.
Public Comments:
None
Motion: by Councilmember Avila, Jr., Seconded by Councilmember Alvarez to close the public hearing.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: AVILA JR., ALVAREZ, BECKWITH, MAYOR GONZALES
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ
Motion passed 4-0-1
Motion: by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith, seconded by Councilmember Avila, Jr. to adopt Resolution No. 2023-
C58, Authorizing Open Market Bond Repurchase of a Portion of its Outstanding Taxable Pension Obligation
Bonds, Series 2020; and adopt Resolution No. 2023-C59, Amending the Fiscal Year 2023/24 General Fund
Budget By $4,000,000.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: AVILA JR., ALVAREZ, BECKWITH, MAYOR GONZALES
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ
Motion passed 4-0-1 (Mendez Absent)
3. CONSIDERATION TO ALLOW FOR THE CO-SPONSORING OF THE “CRUISING BACK 2
ROUTE 66” CAR SHOW TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 5, 2023, WAIVING OF SPECIAL EVENT
PERMIT APPLICATION FEES, AND ADOPTING A RESOLUTION TO ALLOW FOR LIMITED
STREET CLOSURES FOR THE DAY OF THE EVENT.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
1) Authorize and adopt a Resolution No. 2023-C60 to allow for the temporary street closure and use of the
public right-of way on Azusa Ave between 6th St. And Santa Fe Ave, and Foothill Blvd between San Gabriel
Ave and Alameda Ave for Cruising Back 2 Route 66 Car Show and activities; and use of the City Parking lot on
the east side of Azusa Ave north of Foothill Blvd for vendor tent and First Aid station; and
2) Authorize the City Manager to execute the Special Event Permit Agreement with the Louie Gomez of
Cruising Back 2 Route 66, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City; and
3) Make a finding that the community at large will receive a public benefit with the Co-sponsorship by the
City, and waiving some of the associated event costs.
Total Cost: N/A Is the Cost of this item budgeted? No
Fund/Account No: N/A
Director of Economic Jose Jimenez provided the staff presentation for consideration to allow for the co-
sponsoring of the “Cruising Back 2 Route 66” car show to be held on November 5, waiving of Special event
permit application fees and adoption of Resolution 2023-C60 to allow for limited street closures for the day of
the event and responded to Councilmember questions.
Motion: by Councilmember Avila, Jr., seconded by Mayor Gonzales to adopt Resolution No. 2023-C60 to allow
for the temporary street closure and use of the public right-of way on Azusa Ave between 6th St. And Santa Fe
Ave, and Foothill Blvd between San Gabriel Ave and Alameda Ave for Cruising Back 2 Route 66 Car Show and
activities; and use of the City Parking lot on the east side of Azusa Ave north of Foothill Blvd for vendor tent
and First Aid station; and Authorize the City Manager to execute the Special Event Permit Agreement with the
Louie Gomez of Cruising Back 2 Route 66, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City; and
Make a finding that the community at large will receive a public benefit with the Co-sponsorship by the City,
and waiving some of the associated event costs.
City Council October 16, 2023 Page | 5
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: AVILA JR., ALVAREZ, BECKWITH, MAYOR GONZALES
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ
Motion passed 4-0-1 (Mendez Absent)
CONSENT CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Gonzales called for items to be pulled from the Consent Calendar.
1. Minutes of the Special City Council meeting dated September 5, 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-C43 allowing certain claims and demands and specifying the funds out of which the
same are to be paid for September 29, 2023 – October 11, 2023 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 were approved.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
4. Adopt the following Resolution No. 2023-C62: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF AZUSA EXTENDING THE PROCLAMATION OF LOCAL EMERGENCY
CAUSED BY THE HOMELESS CRISIS was approved.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
5. MOU between the City of Azusa and LACMTA for participation in the NTD for report year 2021; and
Authorize the City Manager to execute, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, the MOU 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
6. Authorize staff to solicit a Request for Qualifications for on-call professional engineering services was
approved.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
7. Receive, review, and file the City Treasurer’s Report for the month of July 2023 was approved.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
Motion: by Councilmember Avila, Jr., seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Beckwith to Adopt the Consent Calendar
items E-1-7.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: AVILA JR., ALVAREZ, BECKWITH, MAYOR GONZALES
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ
Motion passed 4-0-1 (Mendez Absent)
SECOND READING ORDINANCES
1. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF SECTIONS 2-
City Council October 16, 2023 Page | 6
32, 2-407, 42-36 THROUGH 42-39, 50-37 THROUGH 50-43, 54-36 THROUGH 54-44, 55-1 THROUGH
55-8 AND DELETING DIVISIONS 2, 3, AND 6 OF ARTICLE V OF CHAPTER 2 OF THE AZUSA
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE MAKEUP AND DUTIES OF VARIOUS CITY OF AZUSA
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
1) Read by title only, second reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2023-05; AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF
SECTIONS 2-32, 2-407, 42-36 THROUGH 42-39, 50-37 THROUGH 50-43, 54-36 THROUGH 54-44, 55-1
THROUGH 55-8 AND DELETING DIVISIONS 2, 3, AND 6 OF ARTICLE V OF CHAPTER 2 OF THE
AZUSA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE MAKEUP AND DUTIES OF VARIOUS CITY OF
AZUSA BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
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 Alvarez to Adopt the 2nd reading of
Ordinance No. 2023-05.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: AVILA JR., ALVAREZ, BECKWITH, MAYOR GONZALES
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: MENDEZ
Motion passed 4-0-1 (Mendez Absent)
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Gonzales wished everyone Happy Golden Days, Happy 75th Anniversary to Azusa Golden Days, 125
years of the City of Azusa, 125 years to the Azusa Police Department, 75 years of La Tolteca and adjourned the
meeting.
TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 8:58 P.M.
** Items heard out of order
__________________________________________________
CITY CLERK
NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2023-C63 (City)
NEXT ORDINANCE NO. 2023-06
NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2023-R13 (Former Redevelopment Agency)
NEXT MEETINGS:
November 6, 2023, 6:30 p.m. Closed Session, 7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting
November 20, 2023, 6:30 p.m. Closed Session, 7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting