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Unofficial until approved by the
Alhambra City Council
MINUTES
Regular Meeting
ALHAMBRA CITY COUNCIL
Council Chambers , 1 1 1 South First Street
October 14 , 2024
6:0 0 p.m.
ROLL CALL: At 6:10 p.m., on Monday, October 14, 2024, the Alhambra City Council met in the Council Chambers of Alhambra City Hall.
PRESENT: LEE, MALONEY, ANDRADE-STADLER, MAZA, PÉREZ
ABSENT: NONE
Officials Present : City Manager Binnquist, Assistant City Manager Garcia, Deputy City Manager Hembree, City Attorney Montes, City Clerk Myles, Director of Parks and Recreation Macias, Director of Finance Lieu, Director of Community Development Ho, Director of Public Works and Utilities Ahlen, Chief of Police Kennedy, Chief of Fire Department Ragusa, Director of Library Services LohGuan, Director of Human Resources Ko, Economic Development Specialist Chew FLAG SALUTE : Led by Vice Mayor Lee
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT : We acknowledge that the land on which we are gathered is the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Gabrielino/ Tongva peoples. We seek to prioritize respect for the historic culture and contemporary presence of the native peoples throughout California, especially in the greater Los Angeles/Alhambra area. We come with respect and gratitude for the Gabrielino/ Tongva people who still consider themselves the caretakers of this land. It is through their examples that we are reminded of our greater responsibility to take care of Mother Earth and to take care of each other.
CEREMONIAL
1. PROCLAMATION – F2M24-3
Ratified the action of Mayor Pérez in proclaiming October, 2024 as BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH in the City of Alhambra. The proclamation was mailed to the American Cancer Society.
Discussion: Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER emphasized the importance of early detection and encouraged federal offices to continue to provide funding for research. She went on to commend the Alhambra Police and Fire Departments for their continued support through fundraising campaigns. She spoke regarding her personal experience as a breast cancer survivor. Mayor PÉREZ thanked Ms. Andrade-Stadler for her sharing her battle and stated that she had helped to raise awareness as well as inspire others. She thanked Ms. Andrade- Stadler for her advocacy.
PRESENTATION S
2 . CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE – F2M21-43
Alhambra Chamber of Commerce President, Mr. John Bwarie, presented an update for Chamber of Commerce activities from April 2024 to September 2024. Mr. Bwarie ’s 2 10-14 -2 4
presentation focused on business attraction program to bring in new businesses, business support and retention program to continue to help existing businesses, and the community building and capacity building efforts to support Alhambra as a destination for visitors as well as strong and vibrant community.
Discussion : Council thanked Mr. Bwarie for his report and for the Chamber ’s work. Mayor PÉREZ requested more information regarding the feedback from potential businesses the Chamber has reached out to.
Action Taken : City Council receive d and order ed filed this informational report. 3 . ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 6.28 TO THE ALHAMBRA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH VACANT PROPERTY REGULATIONS – F2M24-33, O2M24-4841 Economic Development Specialist Tiffany Chew delivered a staff report and presentation, which is on file in the City Clerk ’s office. The City Council identified in the 2024 Strategic Plan Goal Three: Create a Strong Financial Base and Strong Economic Base (Economic Development). One of the goal ’s objectives was to develop a program to address vacant commercial properties causing poor image. The vacant property regulations were intended to ensure vacant commercial properties were maintained and secured and to prevent the property from becoming a nuisance to the community. The regulations would require property owners to register with the City and pay an annual fee within 30 days after being notified by the City, post property management contact information on the property, and follow maintenance requirements. These requirements include d : Property owner registration requirements including contact information of the property owner and/or property management company if the property owner is not within 40 miles of Alhambra; Building maintenance requirements including graffiti removal, and window cleanliness; Landscaping and irrigation plan to ensure the property is maintained free of dry plants and weeds; Fencing requirements including installation of fencing materials around the perimeter of the property; and, Security requirements including maintaining windows, doors, and other entrances. In addition, the regulations would provide additional support by activating vacant ground-floor commercial properties with window vinyl decals in the storefront windows. Staff would work with property owners to provide design and installation guidance. The window decals would be on the storefronts while the buildings remain vacant and/or under construction.
Public Comment :
1) Lewis McCAMMON , 105 N. Cordova, noted that the ordinance was a step in the right direction, but greater clarification was needed as to the parameters of it as to what qualifies as vacant .
2) Joanna VARGAS, representing the Alhambra Central Business Downtown Association, spoke in favor of the ordinance.
Discussion : Mayor PÉREZ requested information regarding the enforcement portion of the ordinance.
Vice Mayor LEE and Ms. Chew discussed the annual fee as it related to the Code Enforcement administration citation fee, as well as the leasing component of the ordinance and similar programs in neighboring cities. Ms. LEE expressed concerns with the timeline of 30 calendar days for leasing and discussed her concerns with Community Development Director HO who clarified that the 30 days was for the owner to clean up the site upon vacancy rather than the timeline to find a new tenant. He further discussed staff ’s process of communicating with property owners and steps to clean up vacant properties. Ms. LEE and Ms. CHEW also 3 10-14 -2 4
discussed the window decals and the number of storefronts and properties that had been vacant for extended periods of time.
City Attorney MONTES clarified for Ms. Pérez that the enforcement portion had been removed due to the existing chapters of the Alhambra Municipal Code which provide various enforcement options for any violations of the code . Ms. PÉREZ and Mr. MONTES went on to discuss enforcement options through Code Enforcement. They also discussed staff ’s work to determine a fee to register a property as vacant through a resolution, which would be presented to Council at a later date. Ms. PÉREZ emphasized the importance of pursuing properties which had been vacant for a number of years.
Councilmember MALONEY and Mr. HO discussed what would constitute a vacant storefront.
Mr. HO provided an update as to staff ’s work with property owners such as the Rioni b uilding which was not vacant, but had other issues.
Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER spoke to the vacancies on Fremont Ave. and Valley Blvd ., the issues of vacant storefronts, and staff ’s hard work on the ordinance. She requested more information regarding a vacancy tax at a later date, which Mr. HO confirmed that it would have to be considered as a ballot measure.
Councilmember MAZA discussed the chronically vacant properties with Ms. CHEW as well as the active Code Enforcement cases to mitigate vacant properties. Mr. MAZA also supported future discussion of a vacancy tax ballot measure.
Mayor PÉREZ and Mr. HO discussed the response of the business community with the recent changes to the zoning code as it may allow new leasing opportunities to property owners. Ms.
PÉREZ and Mr. HO further discussed outreach to property owners regarding the changes to the zoning code.
Action Taken : City Council declare d introduced for its first reading the following ordinance entitled:
Ordinance No. O2M24-4841: An Ordinance of the Alhambra City Council adding Chapter 6.28 - Vacant Property Regulations – to the Alhambra Municipal Code to protect public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that the characteristics of the City are preserved
which ordinance shall return for a second reading and adoption at the next Council meeting on October 28, 2024.
Vote: Moved: MALONEY Seconded: ANDRADE-STADLER
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
MALONEY: Councilmember MALONEY left Council Chambers at 6:58 p.m. and returned at 7:00 p.m.
CONSENT AGENDA (Item Nos. 4 – 2 1 )
All items listed under the Consent Agenda, with the exception of Item No. 9, 16, 20, and 21, were considered by the City Council to be routine and were enacted by one motion. 4 . ACCEPT ZIPBOOKS GRANT: CALIFORNIA STATE LIBRARY FOR BOOK DELIVERY AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS – F2M24-18, M2M24-183
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The Library applied for a nd received a $ 4,302 grant from the California State Library to continue the purchasing of physical print and audio books to meet unique patron requests and to support book delivery services to home or facility bound Alhambra residents. This program aim ed to meet immediate patron requests of items the Library does not currently own and would enhance access for community members who have limited ability to access the Library ’s physical building and its collection.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council accept ed $ 4,302 from the California State Library for the Zipbooks program; appropriate revenue and expenditure funds in the amount of $ 4,302 ; authorize d the City Manager or designee to sign the grant agreement, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, with the California State Library; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M24-183 ) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
5. ACCEPT GRANT: OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY – PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM – F2M24-18, M2M24-184
The goal of the Office of Traffic Safety and Pedestrian Bicycle Safety Program was to reduce the number of individuals killed or injured from collisions involving pedestrians and bicyclists through grant funding for local law enforcement agencies. The Alhambra Police Department intend ed to utilize funding for the FY 2024-2025 Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program to enhance community safety through various educational programs. Such programs and services would include classroom education, bicycle rodeos, community events and presentations on an overtime basis . Participation in programs such as National Walk to School Day, National Bicycle Safety Month, National Pedestrian Safety Month and California ’s Pedestrian Safety Month. In addition, the Police Department intend ed to use grant funding to purchase bicycle helmets to be distributed to community members at various events throughout the grant cycle.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council accept ed the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) grant in the amount of $ 35,000 ; appropriate d revenue and expenditure funds in the amount of $ 35,000 ; authorize d the Chief of Police to enter into a contract with the Office of Traffic Safety for grant implementation; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M24-184 )
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
6. RESOLUTION: ACCEPT DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL GRANT – F2M11-40A, R2M24-45, M2M24-185
Staff request ed that the City Council adopt a resolution to accept the award of grant funds in the amount of $ 39,100 from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). With the 5 10-14 -2 4
assistance of ABC grant funds, the Alhambra Police Department would have the means to conduct expert training to assist police officers in the prevention and detection of alcohol sales to underage consumers. The grant would also allow the Police Department to conduct specialized training for owners, managers, and staff at licensee location s to better inform these individuals about ABC regulations and best practice methods. The funds awarded by ABC will enhance public awareness of underage drinking and law e nforcement efforts being dedicated to combat this issue.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council 1) adopt ed Resolution No. R2M24-45 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Alhambra accepting the award of grant funds from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and authorizing the Chief of Police to execute all related agreements with the State in relation thereto to accept the award of grant funds in the amount of $ 39,100 from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control; 2) appropriate d $39,100 in revenue and expenditure funds in the 2024-25 Fiscal Year Budget to implement grant activities ; 3) instruct ed the City Clerk to send a certified copy of Resolution No. R2M 24- 45 to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control; and, 4 ) direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M24-185 ) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
7. APPROVAL OF MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT FOR THE 626 GOLDEN STREETS MISSION TO MISSION 202 5 EVENT – F2M2 4 -16, M2M24-186 On July 24, 2024, the City Council approved the intent to participate in the 626 Golden Streets Mission to Mission event and authorized the City Manager or d esignee to execute the Memorandum of Understanding. The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) secured $400,000 in Proposition C funds to host the 626 Golden Streets Mission to Mission event, with costs for outreach , pre-event planning, and day of event staging. Programming require d a set amount of in-kind or local fund match from the participating agencies. The SGVCOG and the cities of Alhambra, South Pasadena and San Gabriel partnered to host the event as a contiguous open street event on June 22, 2025 from South Pasadena to San Gabriel. Alhambra ’s in-kind match for the event was $20,000. The in-kind match would be paid through staff time, services and City-hosted activities at the Downtown Alhambra hub.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council approve d a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) , subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, by and between the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) and the cities of Alhambra, San Gabriel, and South Pasadena to share resources and host the 626 Golden Streets Mission to Mission event on June 22, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; authorize d the City Manager to execute said MOA; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council ’s action. (M2M24-186 )
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
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8. NOTICE OF COMPLETION: ENVIRONMENTAL ASBESTOS ABATEMENT AT THE SHORB CLINIC – F2M24-21, C2M24-37, M2M24-187
On May 13, 2024, the City Council awarded a contract to Unlimited Environmental Inc. for the abatement of asbestos at the former Alhambra Health Center (Shorb Clinic) in the amount of $184,000 . There were two change orders to the project. The change orders included: removal and disposal of two transite pipes, removal of plaster and red brick to access pipes and re- installation of plywood on building windows . The change orders totaled $18,042.16 for a final contract amount of $202,042.16 Staff inspected this project, and all work was completed in accordance with the City ’s requirements and specifications. As such, it was appropriate for the City Council to accept this project as complete.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council accept ed the work of Unlimited Environmental Inc. for the abatement of asbestos at the former Alhambra Health Center as complete in the amount of $ 202,042.16 ; direct ed the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the County of Los Angeles for recordation; instruct ed the Finance Director to release the 5 percent retention 35 days from the date of recordation if no liens are filed; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M24-187 )
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
9. AMEND CONTRACT WITH WEST COAST ARBORISTS – F96-35, C2M10-26, M2M24- 188
On June 24, 2024, the City entered into a contract with West Coast Arborists Inc., the current provider of tree maintenance services. An amendment was necessary to expand the current FY 2024-25 contract amount for tree removal, according to the pre-negotiated rates as stated in Contract No. C2M10-26.
Public Comment : Melissa MICHELSON requested information regarding the number of trees to be removed.
City Manager BINNQUIST stated that the information would be provided to Ms. Michelson .
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council amend ed the contract with West Coast Arborists, Inc. for the removal of trees in addition to the current FY 2024-25 contract in an amount not to exceed $51,270.50; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. (M2M24-188 )
Vote: Moved: LEE Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: MAZA, LEE, MALONEY, ANDRADE-STADLER, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
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10. AUTHORIZE RFP: PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES FOR THE SEWER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT ON SIERRA VISTA AVENUE – F2M24- 65 , RFP2M24- 24
The Sewer Master Plan identified the Sewer Main Replacement Project on Sierra Vista Avenue between Los Higo Street and San Marino Avenue. The existing 8-inch pipe WAS expected to be surcharged during existing and ultimate peak wet weather conditions. The Master Plan recommen ded replacement of the existing sewer main with a larger diameter sewer main. As part of the City ’s ongoing Capital Improvement Program, this project would provide engineering design, plans, and preparation of bid specifications for the replacement of approximately 1,065 feet of existing 8-inch sewer main with a larger capacity sewer main.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council approve d the distribution of a Request for Proposals for Professional Engineering Design and Construction Services for the Sewer Main Replacement Project on Sierra Vista Avenue, with proposals due no later than 4:00 p.m. on November 7, 2027; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
11. AMENDMENT TO AXON ENTERPRISES CONTRACT TO INCLUDE CRADLEPOINT MAINTENANCE AND VIRTUAL REALITY TRAINING AIDS – F2M23-6B, C2M23-1, M2M24-189
On January 9, 2023, the Council awarded a contract to Axon Enterprises, Inc. for the Officer Safety Plan 7, which integrat es in-car mobile audio video system (MAVS), body-worn camera (BWC) system, digital evidence management software, and Taser 7 in an amount not to exceed $1,031,582 over five years. On September 25, 2023, City Council approved an amendment to add Axon Air in the amount of $51,638.30 through October 2028. Staff sought to amend the current contract between the City and Axon Enterprises, Inc. to allow for the purchase of one-year Cradlepoint maintenance and thirty-eight months of Axon Virtual Reality for an increased cost of $75,382.83. The Cradlepoint router was initially purchased with Axon Enterprises, Inc. and was necessary to purchase annual maintenance to secure the connection between the computers and cameras back to the network . Axon Virtual Reality consists of headset hardware and accessories and the interactive headsets display various scenarios designed to help train officers in de-escalation tactics. Sourcewell awarded Axon Enterprises , Inc. contract #101223-AXN for Cradlepoint maintenance expiring December 15, 2027, and 092722-AXN for Axon VR training with an expiration date of November 21, 2026.
Cooperative purchase was allowable per Alhambra Municipal Code 3.36.080(B)(3).
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council amend ed the contract with Axon Enterprises, Inc. to include one-year Cradlepoint maintenance and thirty-eight months of virtual reality training aids in the amount of $75,382.83 for a total amount not to exceed $1,158,603.13, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney; authorize d the Chief of Police to execute said agreements; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M24-189 )
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Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
12. APPROVAL OF FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT FOR LUNAR NEW YEAR
FESTIVAL EVENT COORDINATION WITH THE ALHAMBRA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE – F2M21-43, C2M23-24, M2M24-190
The City has contracted with the Alhambra Chamber of Commerce for many years to provide promotional services on behalf of the City. On April 24, 2023, the City entered into a two-year agreement (Contract No. C2M23-24) with the Chamber of Commerce to support the Alhambra business community and encourage partnerships within the community. The terms of Contract No. C2M23-24 are such that the fee for services may not exceed $120,000 for each fiscal year, a total of $240,000 for Fiscal Years 2023-24 and 2024-25. The Chamber requested additional funding of $15,000 to support the 2025 Lunar New Year festival scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025. The funding request would pay for increased costs of event management, compliance and fees. This amendment would result in a new contract not to exceed the amount of $135,000 for Fiscal year 2024-25.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council approve d a contract amendment, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, to the current contract by and between the City of Alhambra and Alhambra Chamber of Commerce (C2M23-24) for Lunar New Year Festival event coordination in an amount not to exceed $15,000; appropriate $15,000 to the 2024-25 Fiscal Year Budget for the execution of this amendment; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M24-190 ) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
13. AWARD CONTRACT: FY 2022-2023 SB1 STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT – F2M22-39, N2M24-91, C2M24-62, M2M24-191
The FY 20 22-23 SB1 Street Rehabilitation Project was located in the northwest area of the City. The project consist ed of two distinct areas, including residential streets within the Emery Park Hills Historic Neighborhood and several mixed-use streets immediately to the east of the neighborhood. In total, there were twenty streets included in this project. The Notice Inviting Bids for this Project was authorized by Council on July 22, 2024. On September 19, 2024, the City Clerk received eight bids that ranged from $2,042,913.00 to $2,598,712.00. Staff reviewed the bids and found the bid received from DASH Construction Company, Inc. in the amount of $2,042,913.00 wa s the lowest responsible bid. DASH Construction Company, Inc. ha d the necessary licenses to complete the work and has conducted similar scale projects in surrounding cities.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council award ed a contract, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, to DASH Construction Company, Inc. in the amount of 9 10-14 -2 4
$ 2,042,913.00 for the FY 2022-23 SB1 Street Rehabilitation Project; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. (M2M24-191 ) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
14. NOTICE INVITING BIDS: REPLACEMENT OF THE CHILLER UNIT AT THE ALHAMBRA POLICE DEPARTMENT – F2M24-66, N2M24- 127
The chiller unit at Alhambra Police Department was an original install when the Police Department building was built. In the recent months, the building experienced several Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) related issues that necessitated service calls from the HVAC provider. Some repairs were made; however, replacement was recommended for the chiller unit due to age. The typical life cycle of a chiller is between 15 to 20 years and the unit was already beyond that life cycle. The facilities assessment report identified citywide projects for the next 10 years beginning in 2021. The report identified the chiller at the Police station to be replaced .
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council authorize d staff to issue a Notice Inviting Bids for the replacement of the chiller unit at Alhambra Police Department; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
15. AWARD CONTRACT: PURCHASE OF A POLICE PATROL VEHICLE – F2M24-6A, C2M24-63, M2M24-193
Currently, the repairs to a damaged police vehicle were beyond the value of the patrol car. As a result, staff sought to purchase one police patrol vehicle to replace the totaled vehicle through a cooperative purchase agreement. A cooperative purchase is allowable per Alhambra Municipal Code 3.36.080(B)(3). On September 15, 2021, Sourcewell opened four bids for procuring vehicles, cars, vans, SUVs, and light trucks with related equipment, accessories, and services. Sourcewell awarded contract 091521-NAF to National Auto Fleet Group on November 4, 2021 - a contract that would not expire until November 8, 2025. Per the Sourcewell bid specifications, there is the option of purchasing police vehicles. Staff recommended purchasing one police vehicle utilizing this option.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council award ed a contract, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and the City Attorney, to National Auto Fleet Group for the purchase of one police patrol vehicle in the amount of $54,352.14; direct ed the Finance Director to allocate the insurance payment of $35,611.88 for the totaled police patrol vehicle to account number 507.70.2010.90803 ; allocate d $18,740.26 from the equipment fund to cover the remaining cost of the purchase; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M24-193 )
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Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
16. BUDGET APPROPRIATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE ASSOCIATES (ESA)
TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES TO ASSIST IN MANAGING THE IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS CONTAINED IN THE 2021-2029 HOUSING ELEMENT – F2M24-27, C2M24-43, M2M24-192
On June 24, 2024, the City Council awarded a contract to ESA for managing the implementation programs identified in the Housing Element, through October 31, 2029, with a total contract amount not to exceed $2,456,634. Staff had originally budgeted a pro-rata amount of $491,327 for the first year as a placeholder but as a result of additional guidance from HCD, additional programs were identified to be prioritized to be addressed in the first year. As a result, ESA proposed a budget amount of $622,689 for the first year of the contract (FY 20 24 -25). As such, additional appropriation was needed to fully fund the expenses anticipated during the first year of the contract. The overall contract price would stay the same.
Staff recommend ed a budget appropriation from the general plan restricted funds account.
Public Comment : Lewis McCAMMON , 105 N. Cordova St., discussed the process of adopting the Housing Element and requested a more open and transparent process so that the public could receive information, ask questions, and provide input on the implementation of programs.
City Manager BINNQUIST stated that staff could provide a response as to the avenues for public input.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council approve d a budget appropriation for the contract with Environmental Science Associates (ESA) to provide professional consulting services to assist in managing the implementation programs contained in the 2021-2029 Housing Element (C2M24-43); and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council ’s action. ( M2M24-192 )
Vote: Moved: LEE Seconded: ANDRADE-STADLER
Ayes: MALONEY, ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
1 7 . MINUTES
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council review ed and approve d as submitted the Minutes of th e August 26, 2024, September 9, 2024, September 23, 2024, September 26, 2022, October 10, 2022, October 24, 2022 and December 12, 2022 regular meetings of the City Council ; the November 14, 2022 regular meeting of the City Council and special meeting of the Successor Agency to the Former Redevelopment Agency ; and , the September 23, 2024, January 23, 2023 and November 23, 2021 special meetings of the City Council. 11 10-14 -2 4
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
1 8 . PERSONNEL ACTIONS – F2M24-2
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council ratif ied the actions of the City Manager set forth in that certain Personnel Actions document dated October 14, 2024 showing the various appointments, classifications, salary changes, etc., since the last City Council meeting.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
19 . DEMANDS - F2M2 4 -1
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council approve d as submitted Final Check List (250871 thru 250952 ) in the amount of $ 802,068.30 for the period ending July 25 , 2024 ; Final Check List (250 953 thru 251027 ) in the amount of $ 158,536.49 for the period ending July 25 , 2024 and Schedule of Wire Transfers in the amount of $1,818,629.82 for the week ending July 19, 2024 ; Final Check List (251255 thru 251340 ) in the amount of $ 638,379.40 for the period ending August 1 , 2024 and Schedule of Wire Transfers in the amount of $ 407,735.98 for the week ending July 26 , 2024; Final Check List (251207 thru 251254 ) in the amount of $1,926,112.58 for the period ending August 1 , 2024; Final Check List (251342 thru 251372 ) in the amount of $ 346,270.41 for the period ending August 8 , 2024 ; and, Final Check List (251341 thru 251372 ) in the amount of $ 583,370.27 for the period ending August 8 , 2024 and Schedule of Wire Transfers in the amount of $ 2,517,766.80 for the week ending August 2 , 2024.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, LEE, MAZA, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
2 0 . CONSIDERATION AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE RE-ADOPTING THE PRIMA FACIE SPEED LIMITS IN THE CITY – F96-33, F2M14-9, O2M24-4840 The City of Alhambra ’s Public Works Department completed an Engineering and Traffic Survey (Speed Survey) for 88 street segments citywide and prepared the City of Alhambra 2023/2024 Engineering and Traffic Survey, which the City Council approved and adopted at its August 26, 2024 meeting. The purpose of an engineering and traffic survey was to establish updated speed limits that could be legally enforced using radar at pre-determined locations.
Engineering and traffic surveys could be an enforceable document for a maximum of 14 years as long as there have not been any significant changes in roadway or traffic conditions, including, but not limited to, changes in adjoining property or land use, roadway width, or traffic volumes (for example a traffic signal, road diet, bike lanes, road widening, etc.). States and local agencies should conduct engineering studies at least once every 5, 7 or 14 years, in 12 10-14 -2 4
compliance with the California Vehicle Code (CVC Section 40802) to reevaluate non-statutory speed limits on segments of their roadways. On September 9, 2024, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. O2M24-4839, updating the prima facie speed limits set forth in Chapter 11.08 based upon the 2023/2024 speed survey. At that meeting it was noted that some of the existing provisions of Chapter 11.08 appeared to be internally inconsistent. The proposed ordinance eliminate d the references to prior ordinances and replaces the speed limit tables with lists of street segments set forth in the 2023-2024 survey to ensure internal consistency.
Public Comment : Lewis McCAMMON , 105 N. Cordova St., spoke in favor of the ordinance and noted it ’s clarity .
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council declare d introduced for its first reading the following ordinance entitled:
Ordinance No. O2M24-4840: An Ordinance of the Alhambra City Council amending Chapter 11.08 of the Alhambra Municipal Code to re-adopt prima facie speed limits in the City
which ordinance shall return for a second reading and adoption at the next Council meeting on October 28, 2024.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: LEE
Ayes: LEE, MAZA, ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
2 1 . SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 5.92
TO THE ALHAMBRA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH REGULATIONS FOR SHORT-TERM RENTALS – F2M18-35, F2M24-33, O2M24-4836
On August 26, 2024 and September 23 , 2024, the City Council considered an amendment to the Alhambra Municipal Code to include new regulations for short-term rentals (STRs).
Following the presentation and public comment, the Council provided additional direction to add the following additional regulations: 1) Host: Host would be defined as a natural person or persons who are the owner of record on a property as illustrated on a deed or legal document. 2) Eligibility: Types of dwelling units that were eligible to be used as short-term rentals were single family residences, duplexes, condominiums, townhomes and multi-family rental units in buildings of less than 5 -units total. 3) Building Inspection Report: Inspections for all units were not feasible because of the amount of time needed. In lieu of an inspection, a building inspection report would be required to be submitted to the City annually to self-certify that the unit complies with regulations. Staff would be available to conduct inspections on a case-by- case basis. 4) Cap on STR Permits: The City would only issue STR permits up to a maximum of 500 active permits at any given time, or such other cap as set by City Council resolution . 5) Occupancy Limits: The maximum number of occupants for a short-term rental remain ed as originally proposed because an occupancy limit would be unfeasible on properties with more than three bedrooms. The current occupancy limits provide d consistency and avoid ed disruption to existing STR operations. 6) Grace Period to Obtain Permits: The grace period to obtain a short-term rental permit would begin March 1 st . Anticipating, the Ordinance would be adopted and go into effect January 1 st , outreach efforts would be conducted to ensure that all potential applicants are informed about the process and requirements for obtaining the necessary STR permit. The STR permit would be set to renew annually from the date that the permit was issued. 7) Appeal Process: An appeal process for a short-term rental revocation will be heard by the Planning Commission. Essentially, if a Host receive d 3 violations in a 12- 13 10-14 -2 4
month period, their permit would be revoked. The operator could appeal that revocation to the Planning Commission. Staff requested that the City Council introduce O2M24-4836 for its second reading and adopt the ordinance.
Public Comment:
1) Melissa MICHELSON expressed concerns and made suggestions regarding the number of permits issued to property owners, the minimum number of units in multi-family complexes, involvement of corporate property owners, the active time of a permit, and the number of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under construction. 2) Lewis McCAMMON , 105 N. Cordova St., spoke regarding his concerns on the impact of short-term rentals on housing stock in general, affordable housing stock, and the further impact on school enrollment in the community.
Discussion : Council praised elements of the ordinance and addressed concerns of the public speakers. Mayor PÉREZ and City Attorney MONTES further discussed the definition of host as an individual property owner and not a corporate entity, a property owner ’s ability to contract a management company, the cap on permits, and the prohibition of ADUs as STRs.
Action Taken : City Council declare d introduced for its second reading and adopt the following ordinance entitled:
Ordinance No. O2M24-4836: An Ordinance of the Alhambra City Council adding Chapter 5.92 – Short Term Rentals - to the Alhambra Municipal Code to protect public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that the characteristics of residential neighborhoods are preserved Vote: Moved: LEE Seconded: ANDRADE-STADLER
Ayes: LEE, MAZA, ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, PÉREZ
Noes : NONE
Absent: NONE
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS – F2M24-4
1) Lewis McCammon , 105 N. Cordova St., spoke regarding Indigenous People Day and the passing of Lilly Ledbetter as well as her history. He went on to discuss the authority of the Historic Preservation Comm issio n and suggested an agendized discussion by Council to review the sections of the Alhambra Municipal Code that tasked the Comm ission to complete. 2) Todd Jones discussed the Historic Resources Survey and expressed concerns with the lack of scope to cover all neighborhoods in the entire City. He requested Council direct the Historic Resources Group to review Phase 2 .
3) Melissa Michelson expressed concerns with her role as a Historic Preservation Commi ssion member, her interaction with staff, her requests for information, suggested defining staff ’s roles with the Commission, and requested less obstruction from staff in responding to Commissioner ’s emails.
4) Bernice Ortega spoke regarding her experience with the HOME Team and expressed concerns regarding the response she received. She further discussed other unhoused people she had interacted with and their interactions with the HOME Team. She requested more information regarding their response to the unhoused population.
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City Manager BINNQUIST stated that she and Chief Kennedy would discuss Ms. Ortega ’s concerns after the meeting. Ms. BINNQUIST further described the general actions of the HOME Team and their availability. Mayor PÉREZ also discussed the HOME Team and their work with L.A CADA COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (ANNOUNCEMENTS & FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS) – F2M2 4 -7 Vice Mayor LEE expressed concerns with the public outreach conducted by staff and the Historic Resources Group (HRG) regarding the Historic Resource Survey and the negative reaction by some residents during the recent community meeting. Ms. LEE and City Attorney MONTES discussed the potential options for regulation under the Historic Preservation Ordinance, and the process taken by the Historic Preservation Commission and HRG as well as the process for Council to ultimately approve the Historic Preservation Ordinance. In order to address the concerns of the public, Ms. LEE requested that HRG have additional public meetings before any other steps in order to better explain the process and be able to provide accurate information to the public. Councilmember MALONEY reported that he had also attended the community meeting, and discussed it with staff after the meeting. Ms. LEE expressed her uncertainty with the current information regarding the Historic Preservation Ordinance, and suggested that HRG could make a presentation to Council to clarify several points for the benefit of the Council and the public understanding. Mr. MONTES clarified that originally, HRG was to make additional presentations to Council, but that this was reconsidered in light of Council ’s direction to move the process along in order to more expediently adopt a Historic Preservation Ordinance. Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER expressed that she would like the process to continue in order to not delay the Historic Preservation Ordinance process. She directed staff to emphasize the importance of equity in the Historic Resource Survey across all five districts.
Mayor PÉREZ stated that in previous discussions she had requested that HRG reduce their timeline by half and asked when HRG would next make a presentation to Council . City Manager BINNQUIST responded and discussed the robust outreach conducted and the response of the community. She further discussed the present timeline for Phase 3 of the Historic Preservation Ordinance including public meetings, the review by the Historic Preservation Commission, the review by the Planning Commission, and ultimately consideration by Council. Ms. PÉREZ expressed that she also did not want to delay the process any further and expressed that many residents expected the Ordinance to be completed by early 2025. In response to Ms. Lee ’s concerns, Councilmember MAZA requested that updates be provided to Council by email who could in turn respond to other requests for information.
Councilmember MALONEY requested that Council adjourn the meeting in memory of former Alhambra Mayor Mary Louise Bunker who passed away last month. Ms. Bunker was a longtime resident and was the third female mayor in Alhambra ’s history.
Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER requested Council ’s support of Los Angeles County Measure G. She discussed the ballot measure and the ways it would affect services provided in Los Angeles County. City Attorney MONTES clarified that if Ms. Andrade-Stadler would like a letter of support by the entire Council, then they would need to unanimously support an agendized item on the matter, or individual Councilmembers could draft their own letters. Councilmembers MALONEY, PÉREZ, and MAZA supported a C ouncil discussion. Ms. LEE expressed preference for Council to draft their own letters individually due to time constraint and to review all ballot measures. Without unanimous support, the item would not be agendized .
Mayor PÉREZ spoke regarding public comment made by Ms. Michelson as to the homes listed on the Historic Resource Survey, requested that the methodology for selection be provided to her and requested additional information for Council regarding how homeowners could add their property to the survey. She reported that she would be attending the next Historic Preservation public meeting at Granada Park. She further stressed the need to provide accurate information to the public. 15 10-14 -2 4
ADJOURNMENT : At 8:11 p.m. there being no further business for the Council to transact, the Mayor, with the consent of the City Council, adjourned the meeting in memory of former Mayor Mary Louise Bunker to the next regular meeting of the Alhambra City Council is scheduled for Monday, October 28, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
LAUREN MYLES, CMC
CITY CLERK
by
BRIANNA LAMB MCCARTHY
ASSISTANT CITY CLERK