Unofficial until approved by the
Alhambra City Council
MINUTES
Regular Meeting
ALHAMBRA CITY COUNCIL
March 24, 2025
6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL: At 6:02 p.m., on Monday, March 24, 2025, the Alhambra City Council met in the Council Chambers of Alhambra City Hall.
PRESENT: MAZA, MALONEY, WANG, ANDRADE-STADLER, LEE
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, Manager Analyst Alvarez, Public Information Specialist Rodriguez FLAG SALUTE: Mayor Lee
LEE: Mayor Lee read the City’s Mission Statement as follows: The City of Alhambra is dedicated to responsive, creative leadership and quality services, ensuring desirable neighborhoods and a supportive business environment, while being sensitive to the diversity of our community.
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.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS – F2M25-4
Mistress Transgender Queen spoke regarding the importance of the Brown Act, the lack of response from Councilmembers to public comment at previous meetings regarding Senior Ride services and transportation services, education requirements for Councilmembers to run for election, education requirements of the City Manager, limits to the Senior Ride services outside of the City of Alhambra, lack of bus shelters, lack of transportation services to the homeless and, First Amendment rights.
Marlene BRONSON, 26 La Paloma Ave. spoke regarding her daughter and mother who live in the City of Alhambra and issues with Utilities fees. She went on to discuss issues regarding her mother’s home which was condemned, her denial of public records, vandalism on her daughter’s property, and the lack of response from Alhambra Police Department regarding human trafficking issues.
Lewis McCAMMON, 105 N. Cordova St., spoke regarding the Closed Session Special Meeting regarding real property negotiations and requested more information.
Hurley discussed the court system in the State of California, the Brown Act, and expressions of Freedom of Speech. He went on to read excerpts from his court case against the City of Los Angeles regarding ADA compliance and spoke regarding the importance of infrastructure that supports the entire community.
PRESENTATIONS
1. ANNUAL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS – F2M25-29 City Clerk MYLES delivered a staff report. The terms of office for all members of the City’s various Boards and Commission expired on March 24, 2025; therefore, it was appropriate for Councilpersons to appoint or reappoint their representatives at this time. With the exception of the Youth Commission, each representative may serve for a maximum of eight consecutive terms of one year each. Appointments would be effective for a period commencing March 24, 2025 and ending March 23, 2026.
Public Comment:
Hurley spoke regarding First Amendment Rights as they would relate to the Boards and Commissions. He went on to discuss the importance of appointees and related his comments to statements he made during Public Comment for Non-Agendized Items regarding his case against the City of Los Angeles for ADA accessibility.
Lewis McCAMMON, 105 N. Cordova St., spoke regarding the HCDA Citizen Advisory Committee and the challenge to reach a quorum. Mr. McCammon urged Council to fill the vacancies on the Committee.
Discussion: Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER confirmed the reappointment of current Commissioners and announced the appointment of Katherine Quintana to the Youth Commission. Vice Mayor MALONEY confirmed the reappointment of current Commissioners and announced the appointment of Lee Lieberg to the Civil Service Commission/Board of Appeals. Councilmember MAZA confirmed the reappointment of current Commissioners. Councilmember WANG thanked all Board and Commission members and discussed her reasons in appointing new Commissioners. She confirmed the reappointment of some current Commissioners and announced the appointment of Ken Kan to Civil Service Commission/Board of Appeals, Michael Scaduto to Environmental Sustainability Commission, Arin Fisher to HCDA Citizen Advisory Commission, Hovey Yu and Victoria Cepeida-Mojarro to Parks and Recreation Commission, Elaine Chen to Planning Commission, Raymond Tan and David Nguyen to Transportation Commission, and Pamela Ghazale, Brendon Wu, and Leslie Chu to the Youth Commission. Mayor LEE confirmed the reappointment of current Commissioners.
Action Taken: The Mayor and each Councilperson discussed his/her appointments to the Arts & Cultural Events Commission, Civil Service Commission/Board of Appeals, Design Review Board, Environmental Sustainability Commission, HCDA Citizen Advisory Committee, Historic Preservation Commission, Human Relations Commission, Board of Library Trustees, Parks & Recreation Commission, Planning Commission, Transportation Commission, and Youth Commission with each appointment to be effective for a period commencing March 24, 2025 and ending March 23, 2026. Other than announcing names of new appointees, no action was required.
2. CLEAN POWER ALLIANCE UPDATE – F2M17-49
Dalia GOMEZ, the External Affairs Manager for the Clean Power Alliance (CPA) presented and highlighted some of the programs and impacts that CPA, collectively with the member agencies, has made in the community and the environment. The presentation is on file in the City Clerk’s office.
Public Comment: Marie Therese LOPEZ, via Zoom, requested the presentation be made available to the public and receive input from the public.
Discussion: Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER and Ms. GOMEZ discussed engagement with the school district community to offer savings to them. Ms. GOMEZ discussed CPA’s “Power Ready” program and its extension beyond municipalities to school districts should they meet the requirements. She went on to discuss outreach to other communities. Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER and Ms. GOMEZ went on to refer to Ms. Lopez’s public comment and the information available to the public via the CPA’s website.
Vice Mayor MALONEY discussed the accomplishments of the CPA, its success as a business, and its early history of partnership with the City of Alhambra. He went on to discuss the various programs. He reiterated that customers were able to either opt out or opt for a lower tier of power at any time. He also discussed the rate fluctuations. He also discussed the process in developing the Sustainability Plan and the city’s move to 100% clean energy.
Councilmember MAZA spoke in support of CPA.
Councilmember WANG and Ms. LOPEZ discussed CPA’s rebate program for the installation of home battery storage systems paired with solar panels. Ms. WANG and Ms. LOPEZ went on to discuss Southern California Edison’s role in maintaining the electric infrastructure and the Community Choice Aggregation Model which dictates that the investor in utility continues to remain responsible for maintaining the power lines. Ms. WANG and Ms. LOPEZ also discussed providing public outreach available in multiple languages, programs for non-profit organizations to collaborate with sustainability initiatives through grant programs.
Mayor LEE and Ms. LOPEZ discussed the upcoming Alhambra Recycles Event, information available to the public.
Action Taken: City Council received and ordered filed the informational report.
3. PRESENTATION REGARDING THE CITY OF ALHAMBRA OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS AND DESIGN GUIDELINES PROJECT – F2M24-42 Director of Community Development HO delivered a staff report. The City’s adopted Housing Element identifies adopting objective design standards and design guidelines as a program to be implemented during this housing element cycle. On June 24, 2024, the City Council authorized RRM Design Group to lead the efforts in the development of standards and guidelines. Jaime WILLIAMS and Katja DILLMAN of RRM provided the City Council with a presentation on the background, progress up to this point, and next steps of the project. The presentation provided the City Council and community an opportunity to learn about the project and how to participate and stay involved. The presentation is available in the City Clerk’s office. The project webpage, which would be frequently updated with outreach events and project progress, could be found at www.cityofalhambra.org/815.
Public Comment:
Hurley spoke regarding the development projects in Los Angeles, expressed concern regarding overdevelopment and high rises, expressed concerns regarding available affordable housing, expressed concerns regarding gentrification, and compared Alhambra to issues faced by several other cities.
Marlene BRONSON, 26 La Paloma Ave., supported the need for redevelopment in Alhambra but questioned the proposed guidelines. She spoke about the design decline of recent projects and the state of Alhambra. She questioned the funding for design projects.
Discussion: Vice Mayor MALONEY and Ms. Williams discussed private and some public landscaping guidelines. Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER and Ms. WILLIAMS discussed the guidelines as they extended through City borders. Councilmember WANG and Ms. WILLIAMS discussed the guidelines as they would relate to the Historic Preservation Ordinance. They further discussed pedestrian walkability and connectivity including public amenities and landscaping pertaining to those areas. Ms. WANG and Ms. WILLIAMS discussed the inclusion of sustainability practices and standards. They also discussed provisions to encourage adaptive reuse of existing buildings to reduce environmental impact. They then discussed how the effectiveness of the design guidelines would be measured over time and the methods used to allow for the City to continue to improve over time. Councilmember MAZA supported the suggestion to allow for continued revisions to the guidelines. Mayor LEE spoke in support of the guidelines and the ways in which they would work with the Historic Preservation Ordinance once completed. Ms. LEE and Ms. WILLIAMS discussed the standards as they would apply to the East Main Corridor, Central Business District, and West Valley Boulevard.
Action Taken: City Council received and ordered filed this item.
CONSENT AGENDA (Item Nos. 4 – 25)
All items listed under the Consent Agenda, with the exception of Item No. 4, 6, 11, 15, 17, 20, and 21, were considered by the City Council to be routine and were enacted by one motion.
4. CONTRACT EXTENSION: FAIR HOUSING SERVICES TO RESIDENTS AND LANDLORDS OF THE CITY OF ALHAMBRA – F2M20-47, C2M20-25, M2M25-27 On July 13, 2020, the City Council awarded a contract to the Housing Rights Center to provide fair housing services to both residents and landlords within the City of Alhambra, with a not to exceed amount of $25,000 per fiscal year. The initial term of the agreement was five years, commencing July 1, 2020 and ending June 30, 2025. The contract also included an option to extend the services for up to two more years, contingent on satisfactory performance. This requested contract amendment included the two one-year performance periods, as specified in the original agreement, starting July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2027. The amendment, however, would allow for a pricing change to the contract in FY 2026-27 at $25,000 plus CPI (Consumer Price Index).
Public Comment:
Mistress Transgender Queen spoke regarding Fair Housing issues such as eligibility restrictions, homelessness rates, high mortgage rates, lack of available housing in Alhambra, and the inability of City employee salaries to match housing prices in Alhambra.
Hurley discussed his experiences with Los Angeles County regarding his mental health status, the lack of affordable housing, the lack of competitive salaries to compete with rising housing prices, the lack of government support in California, the budget deficit in the State of California, the policies of President Trump regarding federal funding for California, the net worth of Elon Musk, and his ability to fight against local government.
Discussion: Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER thanked City Manager BINNQUIST regarding the weekly reports to Council regarding Housing assistance. Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER and Ms. BINNQUIST discussed the weekly fair housing workshops offered at the Library by the Housing Rights Center.
Mayor LEE discussed public concerns regarding a lack of response from the Housing Rights Center. Ms. BINNQUIST responded with information regarding the operation hours and response to the public.
Action Taken: City Council approved two (2) one-year term contract amendments, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, to the agreement with the Housing Rights Center (Contract No. C2M20-25) to provide fair housing services to Alhambra residents and landlords, in an amount not to exceed $25,000 for FY 2025-26; and for FY 2026-27, a not to exceed amount of $25,000 plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI); and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-27) Vote: Moved: MALONEY Seconded: LEE
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
5. AUTHORIZE PARTICIPATION IN THE CLEAN POWER ALLIANCE ENERGIZED COMMUNITIES PROGRAM FOR ELECTRIC FLEET TRANSITION – F2M17-49, M2M25-28 As a member of the Clean Power Alliance (CPA), the City is eligible for programs which provide financial and technical support, such as the Energized Communities Program: Pathways to Electrification. Under Pathways to Electrification, the Electric Fleet Transition Program provides technical assistance up to $250,000 for planning and implementation for municipal fleets. CPA has contracted with Optony, Inc. to provide services for member agencies. Under terms of the Electric Fleet Transition Program Participation Agreement, the City would work directly with Optony to receive technical support to streamline fleet planning, vehicle replacement, and installation of charging infrastructure.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council approved participation in the Clean Power Alliance (CPA) Energized Communities Program; authorized the City Manager, or designee, to execute the Electric Fleet Transition Program Participation Agreement and all documents related to program implementation; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-28) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
6. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE CITY MANAGER CONTRACT WITH JESSICA BINNQUIST TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE AGREEMENT – F2M13-23, C2M18-1, M2M25-29 Jessica Binnquist began service as the City’s City Manager in an interim capacity in November of 2017. In January, 2018 the City Council approved an Employment Agreement with Ms. Binnquist as City Manager. The original term of that Agreement was set to expire in 2022. Based upon an evaluation of her performance, the City Council amended the Agreement in 2021 to extend the term through 2027. Ms. Binnquist’s performance was evaluated at the end of last year by the City Council. Subsequent to that evaluation, the Council requested that consideration of a further extension of the Agreement through 2031 be agendized.
Public Comment:
Lewis McCAMMON, 105 N. Cordova St., spoke favorably of Ms. Binnquist’s performance as City Manager and listed various accomplishments. He went on to discuss the term offered in the staff report and made reference to other contract extensions. He discussed two perspectives that the City Manager contract be extended longer to ensure consistency or that the contract extension be up until the next election which could potentially bring in new Councilmembers.
Ron SAHU, 311 N. Story Place, spoke against the contract extension and stated that the City Manager’s contract should not be extended through the election of new Councilmembers. He discussed past issues within the City regarding expenditures, soil and groundwater contamination, and lack of strategy. He requested the item be tabled until after the next election in 2026. He spoke in favor of a two-year contract extension.
Mistress Transgender Queen referenced Mr. Sahu’s comments and discussed the City Manager’s salary in comparison to the salary of the President of the United States, went on to state concerns that the public would be silenced should they speak out against the City Manager and further compared the City Manager to J. Edgar Hoover. Mistress Transgender Queen also questioned the power held by the City Manager compared to the City Council.
Bertha RIVERA spoke against the contract extension and requested that it be further reviewed.
Jennifer NG, via Zoom, spoke favorably of Ms. Binnquist’s performance as a City Manager. She requested clarification regarding the term of contract.
Marie Therese LOPEZ, via Zoom, spoke against the contract extension and expressed her concerns regarding the term. She further questioned the lack of current information on the City Manager’s webpage and the lack of accomplishments. She went on to discuss issues with overdevelopment, vacant storefronts, and lack of diversity.
Marisol GRIER, of Lindaraxa Park, via Zoom, spoke against the contract extension and expressed concerns regarding the term due to the evolving needs of the community and the will of new incoming Councilmembers.
Marlene BRONSON, 26 La Paloma, spoke regarding her family who owned property in Alhambra. She went on to express concerns regarding a City Manager who was paid more than the President. She related her experiences with the lack of response from the City Manager regarding issues within the City. She went on to compare the operation of Alhambra with the operation of the cities of Tustin and Orange. She further discussed several issues within Alhambra such as trash, gang activity, and drug activity.
Public Comment received via email and on file in the City Clerk’s office: Cliff Bender wrote expressed concerns with the term of the contract extension.
Discussion: Vice Mayor MALONEY stated that the Council sets the policies of the City which are executed by the City Manager. He stated that the Council acts as an elected Board of Directors for the City while the City Manager acts as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He noted that Alhambra is a full-service City with an active Police and Fire departments. He corrected public speakers regarding the salary of the City Manager. He discussed other cities which struggled to maintain a long-term City Manager and the effects on staff contracts and city projects. He spoke to the work being undertaken and the progress on the Strategic Plan in terms of long-term goals which could not be accomplished under a short-term city manager. He also stated that this was still an employee contract which grants Council the ability to terminate the employee with cause or separate without cause at any point built into the contract. He stated that if there was a problem with the operation of the City, then it is the responsibility of the Council to ensure that staff is executing policies effectively and that any criticism be directed to Council. Mr. MALONEY went on to speak in support of Ms. Binnquist.
Mayor LEE agreed with Mr. Maloney and reiterated that the City Manager does not run the City and takes direction from Council. She spoke regarding the progress made on the Strategic Plan, the City Manager’s response to Council as they relay community concerns, and the Council’s responsibility to address issues in the City. She addressed public concerns regarding the state of the City. She spoke in favor of the accomplishments of the City under the Strategic Plan.
Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER and City Attorney MONTES discussed the ability of the Council to negotiate the City Manager contract during the meeting. Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER spoke to the qualifications of Ms. Binnquist, the desire to retain her services, and spoke regarding her career. She acknowledged the concerns of the residents and proposed extending the contract for a total of 4 years.
Councilmember MAZA expressed the need to provide stability for future projects and spoke to the success for executing goals on the Strategic Plan. He supported Ms. Binnquist and went on to speak to the short-term employment of previous City Managers. He continued to stress the need for stability. He went on to discuss the various long-term projects that were underway and required a knowledgeable and experienced City Manager. He discussed public comment regarding the ways in which the contract extension would limit the abilities of a future Council and continued to speak to Ms. Binnquist’s changes which improved City structure and provided fiscal stability. He reiterated Mr. Maloney’s point that the contract could be terminated should the City Manager not continue to perform effectively. He also discussed the lack of permanent city managers in other cities and the need for stability. He supported the contract extension.
Mr. MALONEY and Mr. MONTES discussed Council’s ability to discuss contract negotiations.
Councilmember WANG agreed with her colleagues’ remarks regarding stability for long-term strategic planning. She added that she had only been on Council for under 3 months and that she is unable to fairly and responsibly assess the full performance of a City Manager. She acknowledged the performance review last year, but added that she was not a part of the process. She stated that this was not a reflection on Ms. Binnquist’s abilities and acknowledged the challenges faced by a City Manager to manage a large city like Alhambra. Ms. WANG stated that it would be irresponsible for her to cast a vote on this item given her limited time on Council. She stated that she would therefore abstain from any vote. She added that should Council decide to delay this item until a later date, she could potentially make a determination at that time.
Mayor LEE and Mr. MONTES discussed the ability of Council to table the discussion. Ms. LEE agreed with Ms. Wang’s abstention based on her lack of information.
Mr. MALONEY also respected Ms. Wang’s abstention, but expressed concerns with delaying Council’s decision. He went on to reiterate that new Councilmembers could cancel the contract, discussed the ongoing 710 project and Ms. Binnquist’s long-term experience with the project. He reasoned that given the term of that project until at least 2031, he did not want a new City Manager to run that project given its complexities. He stressed the need for a decision at the current meeting. He motioned to approve the Item as presented by staff.
Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER acknowledged Mr. Maloney’s comments regarding the complexity of the 710 project and continued to discuss the merits of a 4-year contract extension. She stated that she respected Ms. Wang’s comments and spoke to this Council’s work with Ms. Binnquist.
Mr. MAZA seconded Mr. Maloney’s motion to approve. He went on to discuss the comments made by the public and specifically discussed Mr. Sahu’s comments regarding RHNA goals.
Ms. WANG responded to Ms. Andrade-Stadler’s comments and reiterated that she felt she was unable to vote on the item until after several months’ time.
Action Taken: City Council approved that certain Third Amendment to Employment Agreement; a copy of which Amendment is on file in the City Clerk’s Office as Contract No. C2M18-1 and by this reference incorporated herein and made a part of as though fully set forth herein, extending the term of the Agreement through December 2031. (M2M25-29) Vote: Moved: MALONEY Seconded: MAZA
Ayes: MALONEY, MAZA, LEE
Noes: ANDRADE-STADLER
Abstain: WANG
7. PARK NAMING – FREMONT POCKET PARK – F2M25-16, M2M25-30 At the March 10, 2025 City Council meeting, staff presented a recommendation for the name of the Fremont Pocket Park; however, the name for this park was not voted on. Subsequently, it was recommended that the pocket park at Fremont Avenue and Hellman Avenue be named Poppy Park as the California poppy is a native flower that is also the official State flower. Staff recommended that the City Council approve the name of Poppy Park for the Fremont Pocket Park currently under development.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council approved the new park name for the Fremont Pocket Park development to Poppy Park; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-30) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
8. ACCEPTANCE OF A GRANT TO THE UTILITIES DEPARTMENT FROM THE SAN GABRIEL VALLEY MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT – F2M25-18, M2M25-31 The San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (SGVMWD) provides reliable supplemental water for the communities of Alhambra, Azusa, Monterey Park and Sierra Madre in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner. The City applied for a grant through the SGVMWD Opportunities for Water Leadership Program, which offers funding for water-efficient projects. On February 6, 2025, the grant was approved, and the funding would be used to purchase and install water fountain/bottle refill stations at City Yard, as well as installing a filtration system at CSC and replace broken fixtures at City Hall, as well as upgrade to water-saving plumbing faucets.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council accepted a grant of $5,000.00 from the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District to assist the Public Works and Utilities Department with the purchase of water fountain/bottle refill stations and water-saving plumbing faucets at various locations including City Yard, City Hall, and CSC (Customer Service Center); directed the Finance Director to appropriate the revenue and expenditure funds in the amount of $5,000.00; authorized the City Manager or designee to sign or execute grant documentation; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council’s action. (M2M25-31) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
9. NOTICE INVITING BIDS: MAIN STREET AND FOURTH STREET SEWER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT - PHASE 2 – F2M22-53, N2M25-36 The Sewer Master Plan identified Main Street (from Atlantic to Fourth Street), Fourth Street from Main Street to Mission Road, as deficient in capacity and recommends replacement of the existing sewer main with a larger diameter sewer main. This project would replace approximately 2,245 feet of existing 8-inch to 12-inch sewer main with 18-inch to 21-inch sewer main. The proposed project involved construction in two phases, with the first phase project on Fourth Street (from Commonwealth Avenue to Mission Road), and Mission Road (from Fourth Street to Garfield Avenue) has been completed. This project was for Phase 2, which would be on Main Street (from Atlantic Boulevard to Fourth Street) and on Fourth Street from (Main Street to Commonwealth Avenue). Plans and specifications were prepared. Staff reviewed the plans and found them to be consistent with the City’s standards.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council approved the distribution of a Notice Inviting Bids to qualified contractors for the Main Street and Fourth Street Sewer Main Replacement Project – Phase 2 with bids due no later than 10:30 a.m. on April 24, 2025 and opened at 11:00 a.m. that same day; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
10. AUTHORIZE RFP: PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF A MASTER PLAN FOR STREET LIGHT REPLACEMENT – F2M25-30, RFP2M25-4 The City of Alhambra owns and maintains 8,500 street lights some of which consist of series designed circuits. The series circuits were old, parts have become obsolete, and are in need of repair. The development of the Master Plan provided a work plan for priority replacement of entire circuits, LED replacement, and an estimate of costs for construction for phasing. As part of the field work to assess the City’s current street lighting system, the consultant would be tasked with including a photogrammetric survey to measure average lighting levels and illumination quality throughout the City.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council approved the distribution of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Professional Engineering Services for the Development of a Master Plan for Street Light Replacement, with project proposals due no later than 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
11. ADOPTION OF THE 2025 STRATEGIC PLAN – F2M25-28, M2M25-32 The City Council, City Manager, Department Heads and Facilitator William Kelly of Kelly Associates Management Group held a Special Council Meeting for a Strategic Planning Session on March 4, 2025 to update the City’s current Strategic Plan (adopted in April 2024). Following the meeting, staff met to review the Council’s goals and objectives and discuss strategy and status of the new and updated strategic plan ideas with detailed goals and metrics to guide staff. On March 13, 2025, the City Council held a second special Council meeting to review the updated 2025 Strategic Plan. The 2025 Strategic Plan contained six Goals, defined: Goal 1: Enhance Public Safety; Goal 2: Improve Infrastructure and Mobility; Goal 3: Create a Strong Financial Base and Strong Economic Base (Economic Development); Goal 4: Enhance Transparency and Open Governance; Goal 5: Promote Sustainability; and, Goal 6: Improve Housing Opportunities. Staff will bring updates on the 2025 Strategic Plan to the Council on a quarterly basis.
Public Comment:
Mistress Transgender Queen expressed concerns regarding the enhancement of public safety and discussed several public safety issues regarding traffic stops made by police, pedestrian issues, gang activity, and lack of response from the City Manager.
Lewis McCAMMON, 105 N. Cordova St., spoke regarding Goal 6 and the review of the Housing Element. He requested consideration of a later time to hold a mid-term review of the Housing Element. He went on to discuss Goal 4 and the lack of consistent information regarding ongoing or proposed development projects on the City website.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council adopted the 2025 Strategic Plan and directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-32) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
12. RESOLUTION APPROVING A REVISED COMPREHENSIVE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE ALHAMBRA CITY EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION – F2M25-2, R2M25-14, C87-16A, M2M25-33 In February 2025, a joint request from both Alhambra City Employees’ Association (ACEA) and Alhambra Management Employees’ Association (AMEA) was filed, requesting a unit modification. In particular, the joint request pertained to a request to move the Recreation Supervisor and Senior Services Supervisor classifications from ACEA to AMEA. Moving forward, effective March 24, 2025, the classification of Recreation Supervisor and Senior Services Supervisor would no longer be recognized and represented by ACEA.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council took the following actions: 1) Adopted Resolution No. R2M25-14 entitled: A Resolution of the Alhambra City Council approving a revised Comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Alhambra and the Alhambra City Employees’ Association; and, 2) Directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-33) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
13. RESOLUTION APPROVING A REVISED COMPREHENSIVE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE ALHAMBRA MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION (AMEA) – F2M25-2, R2M25-15, C2M17- 70, M2M25-34 In February 2025, a joint request from both Alhambra City Employees’ Association (ACEA) and Alhambra Management Employees’ Association (AMEA) was filed, requesting a unit modification. In particular, the joint request pertained to a request to move the Recreation Supervisor and Senior Services Supervisor classifications from ACEA to AMEA. Moving forward, effective March 24, 2025, the classifications of Recreation Supervisor and Senior Services Supervisor would be recognized and represented by AMEA. There were no proposed changes to salary and benefits or to the class specification.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council took the following actions: 1) Adopted Resolution No. R2M25-15 entitled: A Resolution of the Alhambra City Council approving a revised Comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Alhambra and the Alhambra Management Employees’ Association; and, 2) Directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-34) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
14. RESOLUTION APPROVING REVISED CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE ASSISTANT – WATER QUALITY, ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST – WATER QUALITY, SENIOR WATER UTILITY WORKER, WATER PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR, WATER UTILITY SUPERVISOR AND WATER UTILITY WORKER II – F2M25-2, R2M25-13 Alhambra Municipal Code Section 2.48.070 (B) provides that before a class specification becomes effective or other changes are made to the City’s Classification Plan, it shall first be approved by the City Council. As needed, staff will periodically conduct a review of class specifications to ensure that job requirements remain relevant and current. Class specifications were updated to reflect a new agency certifying necessary water certification requirements for each classification. Additionally, language in certain class specifications were revised to clarify that necessary certifications are required “at time of application.” No changes to the salary are proposed. Staff discussed and reviewed the changes to the class specifications with the Alhambra City Employees’ Association (ACEA) and the Alhambra Management Employees’ Association (AMEA) and both the ACEA and AMEA were in agreement with the proposed changes.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council adopted Resolution No. R2M25-13 entitled: A Resolution of the Alhambra City Council approving revised Class Specifications for Environmental Compliance Assistant – Water Quality, Environmental Compliance Specialist – Water Quality, Senior Water Utility Worker, Water Production Supervisor, Water Utility Supervisor and Water Utility Worker II Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
15. AUTHORIZE RFP: TRAFFIC SIGNAL AND STREET LIGHT SERVICES – F2M25-31, RFP2M25-5 The City of Alhambra owns and operates traffic signals and street lighting systems throughout the City. These systems require maintenance, and at times, emergency repairs. In an effort to efficiently maintain and upgrade the current systems, increase productivity and shorten traffic signal and street light down time, staff sought to obtain the services of a licensed electrical contracting firm. The current contract with Yunex would expire on June 30, 2025. The prospective company would provide routine traffic signal and street light maintenance services, emergency repair services, non-emergency maintenance and new equipment upgrades and installation. Staff prepared specifications for distribution to qualified firms.
Public Comment: Mistress Transgender Queen expressed concerns regarding the lack of pedestrian compliance with traffic laws, requested traffic surveillance cameras at major intersections and spoke regarding the lack of police response for traffic incidents. Mistress Transgender Queen further discussed safety issues with the lack of street lights at bus stops.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council authorized the distribution of Request for Proposals for Traffic Signal and Street Light Services with proposals due no later than 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council’s action.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
16. AWARD CONTRACT: WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT ON CONCORD AVENUE AND MIDVALE PLACE – F2M24-68, N2M24-148, C2M25-8, M2M25-35 On January 30, 2025, the City Council approved the distribution of Notice Inviting for the Water Main Replacement Project on Concord Avenue and Midvale Place. On February 27, 2025, bids were opened by the City Clerk. Nine bids were received which ranged from base bid amounts of $1,552,135.00 to $2,241,970.00. Stephen Doreck Equipment Rentals Inc., submitted the lowest qualified bid at $1,552.135.00. Staff reviewed the bid submitted by Stephen Doreck Equipment Rentals Inc. and found it to be in full compliance and conformance with the project’s specifications.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council awarded a contract, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, by and between the City of Alhambra and Stephen Doreck Equipment Rentals Inc. for the Water Main Replacement Project on Concord Avenue and Midvale Place in an amount not to exceed $1,552,135.00; determined the Water Main Replacement Project on Concord Avenue and Midvale Place was categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (b); and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council’s action. (M2M25-35) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
17. AWARD OF CONTRACT WITH TOTAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, INC. FOR EMERGENCY SERVICE – F2M25-6B, C2M25-9, M2M25-36 The chiller in the Police Department’s building failed and was no longer operational. As a result, there was currently no cooling in the building. City staff entered into an agreement with Total Environmental Management, Inc. (TEM) to provide a temporary cooling unit for the building for a minimum of sixty days in the amount of $24,600.00. The replacement of the chiller was identified in Alhambra’s Facility Assessment Report. In addition, staff worked with a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) consultant to determine other improvement recommendations. Staff learned from some manufacturers that it could take about a year to procure the equipment. Staff requested the City Council approve extending the agreement with TEM for another 12 months, for an additional amount of $147,600.00.
Public Comment: Mistress Transgender Queen discussed teachers who serve the community without air conditioning and went on to discuss police officers in other countries whom lack the equipment of Alhambra Police but maintain a lower crime rate.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council authorized an agreement, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, with Total Environmental Management, Inc. for emergency service to provide a temporary cooling unit at the Alhambra Police Department at a cost not to exceed $12,300.00 per month, or $147,600.00 for 12 months if needed; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council’s action. (M2M25-36) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
18. AWARD CONTRACT: FRONT STREET WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT AND ZONE CHANGE - PHASE 2 – F2M19-20, N2M24-150, C2M25-10, M2M25-37 On December 9, 2024, the City Council approved the distribution of Notice Inviting Bids for the Front Street Water Main Replacement and Zone Change Project - Phase 2. On March 6, 2025, bids were opened by the City Clerk. Eight bids were received which ranged from $2,263,102.00 to $3,018,805.00. Stephen Doreck Equipment Rentals Inc., submitted the lowest qualified bid at $2,263,102.00. Staff reviewed the bid submitted by Stephen Doreck Equipment Rentals Inc. and found it to be in full compliance and conformance with the project’s specifications.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council awarded a contract, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, by and between the City of Alhambra and Stephen Doreck Equipment Rentals Inc., for the Front Street Water Main Replacement and Zone Change - Phase 2 in an amount not to exceed $2,263,102.00; determined the Front Street Water Main Replacement and Zone Change - Phase 2 be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301(b); and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize the Council’s action. (M2M25-37) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
19. NOTICE OF COMPLETION: WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT ON MARENGO AVENUE – F2M24-34, C2M24-35, M2M25-38 On May 13, 2024, the City Council awarded a contract to CEM Construction Corp., for the Water Main Replacement Project on Marengo Avenue in the amount of $659,105.00. There were two authorized change orders during the project. The change orders were to remove and replace 16-inch and 18-inch existing valves, abandoning additional water main pipe, and various unforeseen miscellaneous items. The change order increased the total amount of the contract by $150,527.43, for a total project cost of $809,632.43. The project was completed in accordance with the City’s requirements and specifications. As such, it was appropriate for the City Council to accept the project as complete and instruct the City Clerk to file the Notice of Completion be filed with the County of Los Angeles Recorder’s Office.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council accepted the work of CEM Construction Corp. for the Water Main Replacement Project on Marengo Avenue as complete in the amount of $809,632.43; directed the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the County of Los Angeles for recordation; directed the Finance Director to release the five percent retention 35 days from the date of recordation if no liens are filed; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-38) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
20. AWARD ALHAMBRA JAIL SERVICES CONTRACT TO EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT SECURITY, INC. – F2M25-21, RFP2M25-1, C2M25-11, M2M25-39 On January 27, 2025, the City Council authorized the distribution of a Request for Proposals for Alhambra Jail Services. On March 12, 2025, the City received three proposals. Three Police Department employees evaluated and ranked the responding consultants in accordance with the criteria stated in the Request for Proposals. The proposal received from Executive Management Security Inc. was ranked the highest by the review panel. The proposal met all requirements of the following evaluation criteria stated in the Request for Proposals: quality and completeness of submitted proposal, qualifications, experience with similar types of efforts and professional references. Executive Management Security, Inc. ranked the highest in fee proposal by submitting the lowest proposed cost and highest in operational plan by providing the most in-depth training.
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council awarded a contract, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney, to Executive Management Security, Inc. for Alhambra jail services in the amount up to $3,833,044.80 for a five-year term with option to extend three separate one-year terms; authorized the City Manager or designee to execute said agreement and additional documentation to extend the amendment for the remainder of the contract term; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-39) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
21. CONTRACT AMENDMENT: PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR PSR- PDS REVISIONS FOR THE I-10/FREMONT INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS – F2M19-32, C2M20-43, M2M25-40 Staff requested that the City Council approve a Third Amendment to the existing agreement with Kimley Horn for professional engineering services to advance the 710 Mobility Improvement Projects. The projects would consist of: I-10/ Fremont Interchange Improvements; 710/I-10 Stub Arterial Conversion; I-10/Garfield Interchange Improvements; and, I-10/ Atlantic Interchange Improvements. On August 28, 2023, the City Council approved the First Amendment to the contract and the Second Amendment was approved by the Council on March 25, 2024. This proposed Third Amendment with Kimley-Horn would supplement tasks needed for Caltran’s approval of the Project Study Report for the I-10/Fremont Avenue Interchange project. The total cost of the Third Amendment was $118,130, which brought the contract's not-to-exceed total amount to $6,313,515.79, and extended the contract through December 31, 2027.
Public Comment: Hurley discussed his lawsuit against CalTrans for their ADA violations. He went on to discuss the need for pedestrian safety, safe streets and infrastructure, and full ADA compliance with all interchange improvements.
Discussion: Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER and City Manager BINNQUIST discussed Kimley-Horn’s work with CalTrans, the delays, and the new timeline for approval.
Action Taken: City Council approved a Third Contract Amendment to the agreement with Kimley-Horn for professional engineering services (Contract No. C2M20-43) for the I-10/Fremont Interchange Improvements; amended the contract by $118,130, bringing the contract’s not-to-exceed total amount to $6,313,515.79; appropriated $118,130 from Measure R; extend the contract through December 31, 2027; and, directed staff to undertake the steps necessary to finalize Council’s action. (M2M25-40) Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
22. TREASURER’S REPORT – F2M25-1
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council received and filed as submitted the Treasurer's Report prepared by the Director of Finance for the month of February, 2025, listing all of the City's investments as of February 28, 2025.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
23. MINUTES
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council reviewed and approved as submitted the Minutes of the March 4, 2025 and March 10, 2025 special meetings of the City Council.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
24. PERSONNEL ACTIONS – F2M25-2
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council ratified the actions of the City Manager set forth in that certain Personnel Actions document dated March 24, 2025 showing the various appointments, classifications, salary changes, etc., since the last City Council meeting.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
25. DEMANDS - F2M25-1
Discussion: None.
Action Taken: City Council approved as submitted Final Check List (256526 thru 256695) in the amount of $685,157.57 for the period ending February 27, 2025 and Schedule of Wire Transfers in the amount of $975,181.42 for the week ending February 21, 2025; Final Check list (256696 thru 256865 and 256866 thru 256875) in the amount of $63,801.92 for the period ending March 3, 2025; Final Check List (256879 thru 256993) in the amount of $1,002,112.48 and Schedule of Wire Transfers in the amount of $3,019,909.97 for the week ending February 28, 2025; and, Final Check List (256994 thru 256994) in the amount of $550.00 for the period ending March 10, 2025.
Vote: Moved: ANDRADE-STADLER Seconded: MALONEY
Ayes: ANDRADE-STADLER, MALONEY, WANG, MAZA, LEE
Noes: NONE
Absent: NONE
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS CONTINUED – F2M25-4 Brian OTIS, 316 N. Monterey St., referred to public comment for Item No. 6 and spoke in support of Jessica Binnquist, City Manager. He spoke to Ms. Binnquist’s efficiency, knowledge, and professionalism. He urged Council to continue to retain Ms. Binnquist.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (ANNOUNCEMENTS & FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS) – F2M25-7 Councilmember ANDRADE-STADLER requested an agendized discussion regarding a ban on Safe and Sane Fireworks. She went on to discuss issues of masking more serious fireworks, and wildfire safety. Mayor LEE and Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER discussed her suggestion. Ms. LEE and City Attorney MONTES discussed her previous requests to ban fireworks. Vice Mayor MALONEY did not support an agendized discussion. Mr. MONTES noted Ms. Andrade-Stadler’s request would appear on the next agenda under Council Communications. Mayor LEE reiterated her previous request for an agendized discussion to restrict all Safe and Sane Fireworks to only July 4th. Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER and Director of Parks and Recreation discussed the current sale dates of Safe and Sane Fireworks per Alhambra Municipal Code. Ms. LEE went on to recall her previous requests for discussion. Mr. MALONEY did not support Ms. Lee’s suggestion as stated. Mr. MONTES noted Mayor Lee’s request for discussion would appear on the next agenda under Council Communications.
Mayor LEE went on to discuss proposed California SB 677, its impact on residential zones and local land use authority. She stated that she planned to write a letter in opposition and requested Council support. Mr. MONTES asked for clarification as to whether Ms. Lee was requesting the rest of Council’s signature. Ms. ANDRADE-STADLER, Mr. MALONEY, and Councilmember WANG requested additional information and waiting for input from the League of California Cities. Councilmember MAZA requested staff provide some information. Council continued to discuss the proposed bill and its current status. Ms. LEE stated that she would wait for further discussion.
Mayor LEE announced upcoming City events such as the Annual Recycle Event at Granada Park, “Peeps and Pedals” Spring Festival, the 2025 State of the City event at the Granda LA, and the ongoing hazard mitigation planning process.
ADJOURNMENT: At 10:11 p.m. there being no further business for the Council to transact, the Mayor, with the consent of the City Council, adjourned the meeting to the next regular meeting of the Alhambra City Council is scheduled for Monday, April 14, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
LAUREN MYLES, CMC
CITY CLERK
by
BRIANNA LAMB MCCARTHY
ASSISTANT CITY CLERK
3 3-24-25