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Unofficial until approved by the
Alhambra City Council
MINUTES
Regular Meeting
ALHAMBRA CITY COUNCIL
January 27 , 2025
6:0 0 p.m.
ROLL CALL: At 6:05 p.m., on Monday, January 27, 2025, the Alhambra City Council met in the Council Chambers of Alhambra City Hall.
PRESENT: LEE, MALONEY, ANDRADE-STADLER, MAZA, WANG
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, Deputy Director of Public Works and Utilities Ramos, Chief of Police Kennedy, Chief of Fire Department Ragusa, Director of Library Services LohGuan, Director of Human Resources Ko, Manager Analyst Alvarez , Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Houghton , Assistant Chief of Police Fuentes FLAG SALUTE : Mayor Wang
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 S
1. COMMENDATIONS: WINNERS OF THE 2024 HOLIDAY HOME DECORATING CONTEST – F2M25-3
Mayor Wang and the Alhambra City Council, on behalf of the citizens of Alhambra, wish ed to recognize and congratulate the winning contestants from the City ’s 2024 Holiday Home Decorating Contest . Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation HOUGHTON delivered a presentation, which is on file in the City Clerk ’s office . This contest invited residents to show their sense of community and holiday spirit through the use of holiday decorations on their homes. The winners were commended for displaying extraordinary efforts in enhancing and promoting a family-oriented community through their colorful and imaginative holiday displays.
Mayor WANG presented commendations to the winners of the 2024 Holiday Home Decorating Contest .
THE NGO FAMILY
1845 SOUTH OLIVE AVENUE
THE SALDATE FAMILY
807 EDITH AVENUE
THE ARELLANO FAMILY
428 SOUTH ELECTRIC AVENUE
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THE VASQUEZ FAMILY
225 SOUTH FREMONT AVENUE
THE ARIAS FAMILY
519 SOUTH FREMONT AVENUE
2. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE: DAVID DOLPHIN – F2M25-3
Mayor Wang and the City Council wish ed to commend and thank Deputy Director of Utilities David Dolphin for his 20 years of faithful and loyal service to the Utilities Department and the City of Alhambra. Mayor Wang present ed a Certificate of Service plaque to Mr. Dolphin for h is outstanding work for the City. Mr. DOLPHIN thanked the executive management team, his own staff, as well as staff in all other departments . He expressed his appreciation for the City and the work he performed.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS (TIME LIMITATIONS: 5 MINUTES PER SPEAKER, 30 MINUTES TOTAL) – F2M25-4
1) Jennifer NG , S. Cordova St., discussed the Historic Preservation Commission and the process leading to the Historic Preservation Ordinance including the Historic Content Statement and Historic Resource Survey. She requested clarification as to the Commission ’s role in terms of providing feedback to Council. She thanked Council for the trial-period change to the order of Public Comment in the agenda.
2) Lewis McCAMMON, 105 N. Cordova St., distributed handouts to Council which are on file in the City Clerk ’s office. He discussed the Historic Preservation Commission and requested greater access for public participation via Zoom and posted video recordings of the meetings.
He also discussed the decreased Planning Commission meetings and the quality of video recordings of the Planning Commission meetings. He requested Council ’s consideration of allowing for Zoom participation in Historic Preservation Commission meetings. 3) Melissa MICHELSON, via Zoom, requested several changes to the operation of the Historic Preservation Commission including greater leeway by staff and virtual meeting participation via Zoom. She discussed her difficulties in dealing with staff members regarding records requests and the ways meetings were conducted to pressure Commissioners to conclude business.
4) Jenny CHAN, via Zoom, representing the A +M.I.N.D Booster Club of Northrup School, invited Council and the public to attend their 2 nd Annual Lunar New Year Night Market at Northrup School.
P UBLIC HEARING
3. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A RESOLUTION CERTIFYING AN EIR, INCLUDING THE RESPONSE TO COMMENTS; ADOPTING FINDINGS OF FACT AND A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS; APPROVING THE MMRP; APPROVING THE
COMMUNITY CENTER PROJECT ON THE SITE OF THE FORMER HEALTH CLINIC ON SHORB STREET BETWEEN 6TH AND 7TH STREETS, LOCATED AT 612 WEST SHORB STREET ON A SITE OF 1.77 ACRES; AND APPROVING A PARCEL MAP FOR THE PROJECT, INCLUDING A VACATION OF A PORTION OF SHORB STREET, LOCATED BETWEEN 6TH AND 7TH STREETS AND DIRECTING ISSUANCE OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS – F2M22- 65, N2M25-8, R2M25-4
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This was the time and place set by Notice No. N2M25-8 for the City Council to hold a public hearing to consider approval of the Alhambra Community Center Project at a 1.77-acre site located at 612 West Shorb Street, between 6 th and 7 th streets. Director of Parks and Recreation MACIAS delivered a staff report. Approval of the Project would include approval of a parcel map, aggregating lots and vacating Shorb Street between 6 th and 7 th to facilitate the Project. The Council would consider certification of an EIR for the project, including the associated response to comments, mitigation monitoring and reporting program, findings and statement of overriding considerations.
The City of Alhambra is the owner of the Property located at 612 West Shorb Street, located between 6 th and 7 th streets. The Property was the site of a historic building that was formerly a health clinic, but which was vacant for decades. In 2020 the City Council began imagining a use for the Property, and determined that construction of a community center on the site would provide a much-needed amenity for the local neighborhood, as well as the City of Alhambra at large. Unfortunately, the City did not have funding for such a project at that time. In April 2023, the City received a grant from the State for construction of a community center in the amount of 25 million dollars, thanks to the efforts of California Senator Susan Rubio and State Assemblymember Mike Fong. The City then retained an architect, project manager and environmental consultant to prepare designs for consideration by the City Council and Alhambra community. The Council held public meetings to consider design options on October 25, 2023 (on site), March 11, 2024 and June 18, 2024. Approval of the project requires an environmental evaluation under the California Environmental Quality Act. Options were included in the project studied in the event that additional funding became available during the processing of the project, ranging from 17,000 square feet, up to 25,000 square feet. Currently, the City project ed the current available funding would be sufficient to construct the 17,000 square foot project, but the project would be designed to enable additions if funding becomes available in future years.
The City determined that it would prepare a full Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the project. Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15082, the City circulated a Notice of Preparation (NOP) together with the Initial Study to State, regional, and local agencies, interested organizations, and members of the public for a 30-day period, commencing May 28, 2024, and ending June 27, 2024. Based on public input and the results of the Initial Study, the Draft EIR addresse d environmental effects in the following areas: Biological Resources (special-status species and the movement of wildlife species), Cultural Resources (historic and archaeological resources), Geology and Soils (paleontological resources), Noise (all except airport land use plan, private airstrip), and Tribal Cultural Resources. The Draft EIR determined that impacts to biological resources, archaeological resources, paleontological resources, noise and vibration, and tribal cultural resources would be less than significant with the incorporation of mitigation measures. Additionally, the current Property to be utilized for the Project was comprised of multiple parcels. The California Building Code prohibits construction of buildings across lot lines. Further, the Project also contemplate d construction within the existing Shorb Street right-of-way, between 6 th and 7 th streets. The Subdivision Map Act allows these parcels to be joined into one lot to allow for construction of the project if the Council approves a parcel map for the site. Finally, the next step in the progress of the Project would be to direct staff and the City ’s consultants to prepare a Notice Inviting Bids for the 17,000 square foot Project. The proposed resolution direct ed staff to do so, and return to Council with a proposed award of contract for construction.
The P roject was described at length in the Final EIR document (comprised of the Draft EIR, written comments, responses to comments, and minor revisions/clarifications to the Draft EIR and the MMRP), are available through the City of Alhambra ’s website here:
https://www.cityofalhambra.org/743/Alhambra-Community-Center-Project .
Open Public Hearing : Mayor WANG opened the public hearing. 4 1- 27 -25
Public Comment : Suzi DUNKEL-SOTO, 2213 Winthrop Dr., noted a typo in the staff report and agenda which omitted the role Senator Susan Rubio played in securing the funding for the community center in the State budget . She requested that this be noted and that if there were any naming of the community center, that Council consider State Senator Rubio.
City Attorney MONTES noted the correction.
Close Public Hearing: After receiving public comment, Mayor WANG closed the public hearing.
Discussion : Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER thanked her fellow subcommittee member Mr. Maza and discussed the opportunities offered by the community center .
Councilmember MALONEY expressed excitement and thanked Ms. Andrade-Stadler, Mr.
Maza and staff for their work on the project. He also thanked the community members, the Historic Preservation Group and the Historical Society for their input on the project. He briefly discussed the continued process in completing the project. Councilmember MAZA thanked Ms. Andrade-Stadler for her work on the sub-committee, the Historic Preservation Group, the Historical Society, and City staff for their work. He also discussed the benefits and opportunities presented by the community center and the process to complete the project.
Vice Mayor LEE thanked State Senator Susan Rubio and Assemblymember Fong for their contributions in securing funding and discussed the opportunities of the project. She discussed the need for historic preservation. Mayor WANG echoed her fellow C ouncilmembers , comments.
Action Taken : City Council conduct ed a public hearing and thereafter adopt ed Resolution No. R2M25-4 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALHAMBRA CERTIFYING AN EIR, INCLUDING THE RESPONSE TO COMMENTS;
ADOPTING FINDINGS OF FACT AND A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS; APPROVING THE MMRP; APPROVING THE COMMUNITY CENTER
PROJECT ON THE SITE OF THE FORMER HEALTH CLINIC ON SHORB STREET BETWEEN 6TH AND 7TH STREETS, LOCATED AT 612 WEST SHORB STREET ON A SITE OF 1.77 ACRES; AND APPROVING A PARCEL MAP FOR THE PROJECT, INCLUDING A VACATION OF A PORTION OF SHORB STREET, LOCATED BETWEEN 6TH AND 7TH
STREETS AND DIRECTING ISSUANCE OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: LEE
Ayes: MAZA, MALONEY, ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
PRESENTATIONS
4. MID-YEAR BUDGET REVIEW FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 AND RESOLUTION ADOPTING FY 202 4 -2 5 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS – F2M23-17, R2M25-2 Director of Finance LIEU delivered a staff report and presentation, which is on file in the City Clerk ’s office. On June 26, 2023, the City Council adopted the Budget for Fiscal Years 2023- 24 and 2024-25, which appropriated funds and approved revenue projections for the fiscal year. During the fiscal year, unforeseen financial needs and opportunities typically arise, which require City Council approval of recommended adjustments to projected revenues and expenditures. Staff presented a mid-year Budget review to provide a Budget update for FY 2024-25 . The Director of Finance provide d the City Council with a high-level overview of the FY 202 3 -2 4 actual performance and updated budget projections for FY 202 4 -2 5 . Staff also request ed that the City Council approve a resolution adopting the FY 202 4 -2 5 Budget adjustments.
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Discussion : Council thanked Ms. Lieu for her presentation. Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER and Ms. LIEU discussed the Measure AL Sales Tax. Ms. ANDRADE- STADLER discussed the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust Fund membership.
Action Taken : City Council receive d and file d the Mid-Year Budget Review and related reports; and, adopt Resolution No. R2M25-2 entitled: A Resolution of the Alhambra City Council adopting Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget adjustments of the City of Alhambra, Golf Course Clubhouse Corporation, Alhambra Capital Improvements Corporation, Alhambra Parking Authority, Alhambra Facilities Financing Authority and the Alhambra Public Financing Authority
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: LEE
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
5. INCENTIVES FOR COMMERCIAL USE ON GROUND FLOOR OF MIXED-USE
BUILDINGS AND REVIEW DEVELOPMENT FOR EAST MAIN STREET (BUILDING HEIGHTS) – F2M24-33
Director of Community Development HO delivered a staff report and presentation which is on file in the City Clerk ’s office. As part of the City Council ’s 2024 Strategic Plan, the Council wanted to identify incentives for commercial uses on the ground floor of mixed-use buildings (Goal 3.7) and wanted to review development for E. Main Street with regard to building heights (Goal 3.9). Since both goals were inter-related, both items were being brought forward for discussion at the same time to further the Council ’s Strategic Plan Goal 6.2 to promote Citywide mixed-use development with housing . Staff presented to the Council additional context as it relate d to Incentives for Commercial Use on Ground Floor of Mixed-Use Buildings as well as tools the Council could consider in incentivizing mixed-use development including:
Flexible Development Standards, Additional Density and Elimination of the Residential Planned Development Permit. Staff also present ed a review of development for E. Main Street with respect to building heights. Should the City Council direct staff to make changes to existing development standards, staff would prepare the appropriate zone text amendments and have them reviewed by the Planning Commission for their input prior to returning to the Council for final approval.
Mayor WANG offered clarification regarding public concerns with regards to building height .
She recounted the Council ’s past action, the past action of the Planning Commission, and discussed the intention of the current agenda item.
Public Comment :
The following speakers expressed concerns regarding changes to the RPD process and opposed any changes to the maximum building height limits in the East Main Corridor :
1) Bert NG, 203 S. Cordova St.
2) Jennifer NG, S. Cordova St.
3) Lewis McCAMMON, 105 N. Cordova St.
4) Cody CORBETT, 217 S. Granada Ave.
5) Andrew, 32 N. Almansor
6) Marie LOPEZ, 2821 Poplar Blvd.
7) Olga MICHAELS, Lindaraxa Park N.
8) Brad MICHAELS, Lindaraxa Park
9) Lawrence MARCHESE
10) Ari GUTIERREZ ARAMBULA, via Zoom
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11) Ibeth, via Zoom
12) Bertha RIVERA
13) Bernice ORTEGA, 227 S. El Molin o St.
Discussion: Vice Mayor LEE expressed disgust over continued discussion of building height in the East Main Corridor and stated that she would hold to her promise to maintain a maximum building height of 35 feet. She questioned why the item was brought forward to the Council.
Councilmember MAZA offered clarification as to the item and the Strategic Planning goal to provide Council with options for incentives for development. He stated that Council did not intend to make any changes with regards to maximum building heights. He stressed the need to clarify any rumors or confusion among the public. He stated that the item was at the direction of Council during the Strategic Planning session. He spoke to the unique qualities of the East Main Corridor east of Almansor St. and the sincere intention to maintain its overall character despite limited options for commercial development. He clarified that there was no intention to change the project proposed for 801 E. Main St. He thanked staff for their presentation of options to incentivize commercial development at the direction of Council.
Councilmember MALONEY further clarified that the presentation did not involve any changes to the proposed project at 801 E. Main St. He addressed questions proposed by Ms. Lee and clarified the item was a result of the last Strategic Planning process that Ms. Lee was absent from which brought about the evening ’s presentation. Ms. LEE and Mr. MALONEY discussed the presentation. Mr. MALONEY continued to clarify the intention of providing incentives for commercial development, the Council approved building heigh t limit of 35 feet, the public support for an Old Town Alhambra district, and the need to balance residential and commercial development. He went on to discuss the vacant commercial properties on East Main St. and the need to create a vibrant commercial corridor. He stated that he did not want to raise the height limit in the East Main Corridor. He reiterated his previous suggestion to allow developers an extra 3 feet in overall building height if they agreed to construct a mixed -use development, however he added that he would accept the wishes of the Council and the community. He discussed the upcoming Strategic Planning session. He continued to stress that this was not an action item.
Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER spoke regarding the qualities of Alhambra ’s commercial corridor and the benefits of mixed -use developments. She assured the public that Council understood the public ’s views regarding building heights. She praised the renditions provided by Mr. Ho for potential mixed -use developments for fitting in with the character of Old Town Alhambra. She stated that she supported maintaining the previously agreed upon building height limit.
Mayor WANG and Mr. HO discussed the reference of the 801 E. Main St. as an example of a potential developments and that there were no changes proposed to the project. They went on to discuss the incentives for mixed use development as they would relate to compliance with HCD regulations. Ms. WANG stated that she wanted to respect the previous decision of City Council with regards to building heights and assured the public that she did not want to revisit that discussion. She stated that she supported the limit of 3 story building heights but discussed the ceiling height differences and trends in commercial and residential developments. She stated that recent trends raised ceiling heights and raised windows as more desirable qualities for attracting businesses. She proposed a compromise wherein Council would flex the development standard on a case -by -case basis in order to attract quality businesses. She suggested that staff could bring back an update at a later time.
Mr. MAZA thanked Ms. Wang for her explanation of ceiling heights that would attract larger businesses but added that the community was clear in their desire to have smaller businesses 7 1- 27 -25
in an Old Town Alhambra development. He stated that he would be open to her suggestion in the area of Main Street from Chapel to Almansor St. Mr. Maza referred to comments made by Mr. McCammon regarding a letter shared from Paul Talbot, and clarified that he had no recent communications with Mr. Talbot. Mr. Maza continued to address specific comments made by the public. Mr. MALONEY disclosed that he did speak with Mr. Talbot regarding interest in commercial development.
Ms. LEE reiterated the need for Council to not entertain actions which would contradict previous decisions. She stated that the public relied on the Council to be ethical, responsible, and credible. She referred to Mr. Maloney ’s comments regarding her absence and stated that regardless of her attendance, Council should have considered past decisions. She expressed disappointment and outrage at the agenda item and stated that she would discuss the topic at the next Strategic Planning session.
Action Taken : City Council receive d and file d the information al report .
CONSENT AGENDA (Item Nos. 6 – 1 6 )
All items listed under the Consent Agenda were considered by the City Council to be routine and w ere enacted by one motion .
6. AMENDMENT TO AXON ENTERPRISES CONTRACT TO INCLUDE DRAFT ONE AND ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION FROM A LHAMBRA P OLICE F OUNDATION – F2M23- 6B, C2M23-1, M2M25- 8
On January 9, 2023, the Council awarded a contract to Axon Enterprises, Inc. for the Officer Safety Plan 7, which integrates 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. On October 14, 2024, the City Council approved an amendment with Axon Enterprise to include Cradlepoint maintenance and virtual reality training aids in a total amount not to exceed $1,158,603.13. Staff sought to amend the current contract between the City and Axon Enterprises, Inc. to allow for the purchase of three years of Axon Draft One for an increased cost of $296,231.20. Axon Draft One was a draft narrative generation tool powered by an officer ’s BWC. The drafts were generated from the officer ’s BWC footage. Sourcewell awarded Axon Enterprises, Inc. contract #101223-AXN for Axon Draft One, a contract which would not expire until December 15, 2027. Cooperative purchase is 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 three (3) years of Axon Draft One in the amount of $296,231.20, for a total amount not to exceed $ 1,427,834.33 , subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney; accept a $67,000 donation from the Alhambra Police Foundation (APF) and direct ed the Finance Director to appropriate expenditure and revenue funds to utilize the donation; authorize d the Chief of Police to execute said agreements; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M25- 8 ) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
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7. ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR FY 2023-2024 – F2M23-17, M2M25-9
Staff wishe d to submit to the City Council the following reports for the year ended June 30, 202 4 : City of Alhambra - Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR); Management Report and Auditor ’s Communication Letter; and Appropriations Limit Worksheet with Independent Accountants ’ Report. Based on the results of their audit, Moss, Levy, & Hartzheim, LLP provided the City with an unmodified opinion on the City ’s annual financial statements and issued various Auditors ’ Reports thereon.
Discussion : None.
Action Taken : City Council receive d and file d the annual audit reports for the year ended June 30, 202 4 : 1) City of Alhambra – Annual Comprehensive Financial Report; 2) Management Report and Auditor ’s Communication Letter; and, 3) Appropriations Limit Worksheet with Independent Accountants ’ Report. ( M2M25-9 ) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
8. AWARD CONTRACT: PURCHASE OF ONE PICKUP TRUCK FOR THE PARKS DEPARTMENT – F2M25-6A, C2M25- 6 , M2M25-10
The 2024 -25 Budget included the replacement of one pickup truck. The current truck was over 29 years old and reached its end of service life. As such, staff sought to purchase one pickup body truck to replace this vehicle through a cooperative purchase agreement. Cooperative purchase is allowable per Alhambra Municipal Code 3.36.080(B)(3). On February 8, 2024, Sourcewell opened four bids for procuring vehicles, cars, vans, SUVs, and light trucks with related equipment, accessories, and services. Sourcewell awarded contract 03824-NAF to National Auto Fleet Group on November 4, 2021 - a contract that would not expire until July 9, 2025. Per the Sourcewell bid specifications, there is the option of purchasing vehicles and equipment. Staff recommend ed purchasing one truck to utilize this option.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council award ed a contract, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, to National Auto Fleet Group in the amount of $46,461.95 for the purchase of one pickup truck; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action. ( M2M25-10 )
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
9. AUTHORIZE RFP: OPERATION OF THE ALHAMBRA CITY JAIL – F2M25- 21 , RFP2M25- 1
The Alhambra City Jail has operated with contract staff for over 20 years. The current contract for jail operations would expire June 30, 2025. In the last calendar year, the Alhambra City 9 1- 27 -25
Jaily processed a total of 2,807 arrestees. In addition to processing arrestees, jailers transported arrestees to the Alhambra Superior Court. The proposed contract would be for five years, with an option for up to three (3) additional one-year extensions at the City ’s discretion.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council authorize d the distribution of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to operate the Alhambra City Jail from qualified companies with proposals due no later than 10:00 a.m. on March 12, 2025; and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
10. RESOLUTION APPROVING A THIRD SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT AMENDING THE
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) BETWEEN THE CITY OF ALHAMBRA AND THE ALHAMBRA FIREFIGHTERS ’ ASSOCIATION – F2M25-2, R2M25-3, C87-16B Recently, the Alhambra Firefighters ’ Association (AFA) reached out to City staff to request an amendment to existing language in the MOU between the City and AFA. In particular, the AFA informed the City of the Association ’s vote to amend the qualifying date for AFA members receiving contributions to the AFA Retiree Medical Trust. The Trust was established and managed wholly by the AFA and it legally require d certain language pertaining to the Trust be included in the MOU between the City and AFA. AFA ’s request was to amend the qualifying date from February 12, 1993 to July 1, 1994 and to have the new qualifying date reflected in the MOU as required by their Trust. There was no financial impact to the City as the Trust was owned and managed by AFA.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council took the following actions: 1) Adopt ed Resolution No.
R2M25-3 entitled: A Resolution of the Alhambra City Council approving a Third Side Letter of Agreement amending the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Alhambra and the Alhambra Firefighters ’ Association ; and, 2) Direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
11. AUTHORIZE RFPS: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES AND INSURANCE BROKER OF RECORD FOR ALL ANCILLARY EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PROGRAMS – F2M25-22, F2M25-23, RFP2M25-2, RFP2M25-3
The City has contracted with St. George ’s Medical Clinic for pre-employment medical and occupational services since 2018. Additionally, the City has contracted with Keenan & Associates since 2018 for ancillary Employee Benefit Programs, which include d : Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life & Disability Insurance benefits, Voluntary Life Insurance benefits, Flexible Spending Account benefits and Employee Assistance Program. As part of 10 1- 27 -25
the commitment to City Council and staff to continually research options to reduce costs, retain employees and provide quality benefits, it was necessary to evaluate the insurance marketplace and to ensure the City was provided with quality and competitive benefit offerings.
Therefore, RFPs were needed to obtain qualified and competitive vendors for both essential employee-related occupational health/medical services and for a Broker of Record for ancillary Employee Benefit Programs.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council authorize d the distribution of Request for Proposals (RFP s ) for Occupational Health Services (RFP2M25-2) and for Insurance Broker of Record for all Ancillary Employee Benefit Programs (RFP2M25-3); and, direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council ’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
12. RESOLUTION ACCEPTING PER CAPITA STATE GRANT FUNDS (TRANSFER FROM THE CITY OF SAN MARINO) UNDER THE PROPOSITION 68 STATEWIDE PARKS PROGRAM – F2M25-18, R2M25-5, M2M25-11
In January 2025, staff was notified from the City of San Marino of unspent Per Capita Grant funds under Proposition 68 in the amount of $186,0 97 , which were subject to recapture if not immediately committed or can be transferred to another eligible public agency for capital outlay or improvements to existing recreation property. City staff was in the process of pursuing facility enhancements to the Joslyn Center including roofing and other facility upgrades. The project could benefit from any additional funds for the replacement and upgrade of the facility ’s existing windows and exterior doors. The City of San Marino and Alhambra consulted on this topic of transferring San Marino ’s remaining Proposition 68 funds. The City ’s interest in the funds was also conveyed to California State Parks, grant administrators. On January 21, 2025, staff received confirmation from the State that the proposed project was an eligible use of Proposition 68 funds. The acceptance of the funds require d a cover letter from the City Manager and an adopted resolution by the City Council memorializing the acceptance of funds.
Discussion: Councilmember MALONEY commended staff for identifying a potential funding source and expressed appreciation. Councilmembers ANDRADE-STADLER, Councilmember MAZA, and Mayor WANG echoed their support.
Action Taken : City Council adopt ed Resolution No. R2M25-5: entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Alhambra authorizing the City of Alhambra to enter into an amendment for Contract Nos. C9801275 and C9802076 with the State of California for the Per Capita Grant Program under the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 accepting grant funds in the amount of $186,0 97 from the Per Capita Annual Allocation under the Proposition 68 Statewide Parks Program; appropriate d revenue and expenditure funds; authorize d the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents related to grant implementation; and direct ed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council ’s action. ( M2M25-11 ) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
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1 3 . 2024 STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE – F2M24-33
On April 8, 2024, the City Council approved the 2024 Strategic Plan following two special City Council meetings that were conducted to review and update the goals and objectives that were previously established in the 2023 Strategic Plan. Subsequently, staff provided quarterly updates throughout the year; this was the final update to the 2024 Strategic Plan. A full Strategic Plan planning session with the City Council, staff and a consultant was tentatively scheduled for March 4, 2025. This would provide opportunity to the Council to review and update goals and objectives of the previous plan and establish the 2025 Strategic Plan.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council receive d and file d the final update to the 2024 Alhambra Strategic Plan.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
1 4 . MINUTES
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council review and approve as submitted the Minutes of th e January 13, 2025 special meeting of the City Council.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
1 5 . PERSONNEL ACTIONS – F2M25-2
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council ratif ied the actions of the City Manager set forth in that certain Personnel Actions document dated January 27 , 2025 showing the various appointments, classifications, salary changes, etc., since the last City Council meeting.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
1 6 . DEMANDS - F2M2 5 -1
Discussion: None.
Action Taken : City Council approve d as submitted Final Check List (9264 thru 9299 ) in the amount of $ 1,856.70 for the period ending December 23 , 2024 ; Final Check List (255088 12 1- 27 -25
thru 255256 and 255257 thru 255265 ) in the amount of $ 63,526.92 for the period ending December 30, 2024 ; Final Check List (255266 thru 255375 ) in the amount of $ 786,736.63 for the period ending January 2, 2025 and Schedule of Wire Transfer s in the amount of $ 175,102.89 for the week ending January 3, 2025 ; Final Check List (255376 thru 255509 ) in the amount of $ 1,066,393.35 for the period ending January 9, 2025 and Schedule of Wire Transfers in the amount of $ 596,216.91 for the week ending January 3, 2025 ; and, Final Check List (255510 thru 255660 ) in the amount of $ 1,021,351.53 for the period ending January 16, 2025 and Schedule of Wire Transfers in the amount of $ 4,164,359.69 for the week ending January 10, 2025 .
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE, MALONEY, MAZA, WANG
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS CONTINUED (TIME LIMITATION - 5 MINUTES PER SPEAKER ) – F2M25-4
Ari G UTIERREZ ARAMBULA, via Zoom, suggested Council discuss, either at community meetings or the Strategic Planning S ession, ideas for the economic development of East Main Street and Downtown Alhambra with the community.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (ANNOUNCEMENTS & FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS) – F2M2 5 -7 Councilmember MALONEY expressed appreciation for the community effort in supporting victims of the recent wildfires. He went on to reference comments made in discussion of Item No. 5 with regards to Ms. Lee. Mr. Maloney apologized and clarified his intention to inform Ms. Lee of the reason for the agenda item. He expressed interest at the next Strategic Planning session discussions. He expressed appreciation for s taff continuing to bring forward items from the Strategic Plan.
Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER reported on her attendance at the recent San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments - Regional Housing Trust meeting. She stated that they voted to support the second supportive housing development in conjunction with the Cesar Chavez Foundation. She went on report on a conversation with CALTRANS regarding a designation for a Cleaner California Grant and requested support from Council for the City to apply for the grant program. Councilmember MAZA supported the grant opportunity and thanked Ms. Andrade-Stadler for her research. Ms. ANDRADE- STADLER thanked Parks and Recreation staff and Director Macias for their work on the recent Tournament of Roses Parade Float. She went on to discuss the Mayor ’s A ward the float received from the Tournament.
Councilmember MAZA thanked Mr. Macias and his staff for their work on the Rose Parade float and echoed Ms. Andrade-Stadler ’s comments.
Vice Mayor LEE spoke briefly about the Rose Parade. She went on to discuss a posted sign outside of Council Chambers which declares that all persons are subject to search. She requested information about a program to institute searches. She discussed safety policies used by Alhambra Unified School District and the need for safety. Ms. LEE and Ms. HEMBREE discussed the posted sign ’s language .
Ms. LEE requested a discussion of a program to search the public. She stated that there was no immediate fear but stated that if there was a posted sign then there should be a policy in place to support it. City Attorney MONTES clarified the process to agendize Council requests. Mr. MALONEY stated that he was not comfortable with instituting a search policy and discussed the message that it would send to the public. He stated that he would support a presentation from the Police Chief and their safety measures. Ms. LEE stated that she would accept that presentation. Ms. LEE and Mr. 13 1- 27 -25
MONTES discussed the background of the sign posted. Mr. MAZA and Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER supported Mr. Maloney ’s suggestion of a brief presentation. Mayor WANG stated that there was consensus for a presentation to be made by the Police Chief regarding safety policies for City Council meetings.
Mayor WANG supported the pursuit of the Cleaner California Grant campaign. Ms. Wang addressed public comments made by Mr. McCammon regarding canceled Planning Commission meetings and requested information from s taff. Director of Community Development HO discussed the slowdown of applications, uncertainty due to recent election and administration change, cost of building, the public ’s concerns regarding changes to the zoning code, and expressed hope that more applications may be filed when the economy allows for it. He stressed that staff continued to work hard to attract businesses.
Ms. WANG went on to address comments regarding increasing public access to commission meetings and added that she would discuss the matter during Strategic Planning sessions. She expressed relief at the recent rainfall and thanked City s taff for their hard work after the windstorm and wildfires. Ms.
WANG went on to announce upcoming events such as the Lunar New Year festival. She also encouraged the public to sign up for C ity emergency alerts.
ADJOURNMENT : At 8: 52 p.m. there being no further business for the Council to transact, the Mayor, with the consent of the City Council, adjourned the meeting to the next regular meeting of the Alhambra City Council is scheduled for Monday, February 10, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
LAUREN MYLES, CMC
CITY CLERK
by
BRIANNA LAMB MCCARTHY
ASSISTANT CITY CLERK