ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR AND REGULAR ADJOURNED MEETING
OF JANUARY 25, 2022
The regular meeting of January 25, 2022 was called to order at 3:00 P.M. and adjourned to 3:30 P.M. for lack of a quorum. The regular adjourned meeting was called to order at 3:31 P.M. in the Council Chamber of Anaheim City Hall, located at 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. The meeting notice, agenda, and related materials were duly posted on January 20, 2022.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Harry Sidhu and Council Members Jose Diaz, Gloria Ma’ae, and Stephen Faessel. Mayor Pro Tem Trevor O’Neil joined the meeting at 3:33 P.M., Council Member Jose F. Moreno joined the meeting at 3:35 P.M., and Council Member Avelino Valencia joined the meeting at 3:36 P.M.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Jim Vanderpool, City Attorney Robert Fabela, and City Clerk Theresa Bass
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Robert Fabela announced Closed Session Item No. 02 pertained to the recent challenge by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to the City’s transitional housing program and Grandma’s House of Hope.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS:
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of three (3) public comments were received electronically prior to 1:30 P.M. related to the Closed Session Agenda [A final total of 3 public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official record]. – See Appendix.
Paul Hyek stated he was addressing Item No. 03 and would like to speak to the Task Force because the current vehicle operators are not following the rules, generally do not speak English, and do not know how to take care of people. He stated people on probation are taking up beds in homeless shelters.
Pat Pebley reported Council Member Moreno held a meeting on Monday to inform residents about what the City is facing from the State. She reported homeowners became involved because the integrity of the neighborhood was being compromised by a business. She reported City Council voted to deny the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) in question, leading to State review. She stated clarification of the law is needed to assess if the City or State is acting properly as it pertains to group homes. She stated City Council should work to have a distance clause added to the law to serve the needs of its residents. She called for clarity through legal channels and corrective legislation.
Paul Dagrieff reported it is his fifth time speaking before City Council about Grandma’s House of Hope. He stated the Planning Commission and City Council both unanimously turned it down. He noted the homeowner and organizational owner have been all over the media but are not in attendance at the meeting. He expressed dismay the project is happening despite the neighborhood’s objections and unanimous denials by the Planning Commission and City Council. He clarified they ITEM # 29
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
are not against the business but rather the location. He encouraged City Council to take the homeowners’ position and stand up to the State.
Mary Dagrieff reported watching residents move into Grandma’s House of Hope all week, implying more than six (6) have done so. She added this is the case in other homes run by the owner so she can make enough money. She echoed her husband’s call for City Council to fight the State in support of its residents. She added that residents like herself and her family would not feel safe unless there was protection against group homes bringing uncontrollable individuals to their neighborhood. She reported receiving a group letter from Assemblymember Tom Daly and encouraged City Council to look at it seriously.
CLOSED SESSION: At 3:43 P.M., Mayor Sidhu recessed to closed session for consideration of the following:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of California Government Code Section 54956.9: One potential case (A copy of the claim against the City is included in the agenda packet and available for review by contacting the City Clerk’s Office and on-line electronically with the agenda at:
www.anaheim.net/councilagendas.)
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of California Government Code Section 54956.9 and/or initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of California Government Code Section 54956.9: One potential case
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
(Subdivision (d)(1) Section of 54956.9 of California Government Code) Name of Case: Peoples Homeless Task Force v. City of Anaheim, CA, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2020-01174133
At 5:16 P.M., Mayor Sidhu reconvened the City Council.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Harry Sidhu and Council Members Trevor O’Neil, Jose Diaz, Gloria Ma’ae, Jose F. Moreno, Avelino Valencia, and Stephen Faessel INVOCATION: Pastor Charles Vermeulen, Kindred Community Church FLAG SALUTE: Council Member Jose F. Moreno
Acceptance of Other Recognitions (To be presented at a later date):
Recognizing February 2022, as Black History Month
Recognizing February 2022, as American Heart Month
Recognizing February 2022, as Career and Technical Education Month At 5:21 P.M., Mayor Sidhu called to order the Anaheim Housing Authority (in joint session with the City Council).
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDAS:
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported for Item No. 16, the introduction of an ordinance renaming the Community and Economic Development Department, staff had prepared a revised ordinance to amend another section of the Anaheim Municipal Code to reflect the department’s responsibilities, which had been distributed to City Council and posted on the City’s webpage. Approval of Item No. 16 would introduce the subject ordinance, as amended.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (all agenda items, except public hearings):
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of six (6) public comments were received electronically prior to 5:00 P.M. related to City Council agenda items and matters within the jurisdiction of the Anaheim City Council. [A final total of 7 public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official record]. – See Appendix.
Paul Hyek addressed Item No. 01 and believed the shelter should be walk-in, walk-out, and added they need to watch how the food is being delivered. He stated residents should be able to dine at area restaurants if the food is not suitable for their consumption and the facility should seem like a mini-prison like other locations.
Nahla Kayali thanked City Council for considering Access California Services in Item No. 11. She reported on the journey to finding this home, a collaboration with the City beginning in 2004. She stated the partnership is about community benefits and the quality of life and encouraged City Council to approve Item No. 11.
Jackie Garibay read a letter sent to her and others from Assemblymember Tom Daly about Item No. 20 being reactionary to the State’s violation notice to the City. The letter stated there has been no public discussion of the City’s analysis of the notice and position on the notice, adding the lack of accountability is concerning. She stated the notice voids the City’s CUP process for supportive and transitional housing. She added the letter requests the City’s analysis of and questions about HCD’s notice of violation, all information about permit requests for transitional and supportive housing for the past 15 years, all of the Anaheim Police Department (APD) and Anaheim Fire & Rescue (AF&R) reports for the approved properties, data about distances between approved facilities, all CUP-related correspondence with HCD around transitional and supportive housing, and City efforts to provide feedback to State officials about regulations. She stated the letter notes with the unregulated increase of these projects, neighborhoods have been impacted by the unbalanced distribution and residential concerns must be addressed.
Shelly Nichols encouraged City Council to continue to fight Grandma’s House of Hope to protect her community. She called for guidelines towards a solution for her oversaturated area. She stated the residents stand with City Council in its unanimous vote against the project. She called for a plan so the State could understand what is happening in Anaheim due to its mandates. She stated they want to be good neighbors and called for collaboration to solve the saturation issue.
Mark Richard Daniels stated he is appalled by national and local events and called for City Council to pass a proclamation guaranteeing every qualified person the right to vote. He stated Mayor Sidhu as the lead negotiator erred on the Angel Stadium deal and should admit as such, added that Mayor Sidhu should not run for reelection, and believed that Mayor Sidhu should resign; citing the millions of dollars this would cost the City. He addressed keeping records about the sale from the plaintiffs and the public and called on Mayor Sidhu to take responsibility for these costly actions.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
Cecil Jordan Corkern reported praying City Council understands what they all need to do to take care of themselves. He reported meeting Walt Disney in 2019. He reported Walt Disney Company employees have been caught with pornography and are involved in child sexual abuse. He stated he would provide City Council with his reports once he could afford to have them duplicated. He provided his phone number so City Council could set up an appointment with him to discuss Disneyland security and pornography issues.
Bryan Kaye reported on a hate crime charge involving customer rage at a smoothie retailer as reported by the New York Times. He stated this was an opportunity for City Council to learn how to handle these matters as opposed to how it has handled the APD officer who committed a hate crime against him. He reported several other incidents of APD misconduct and City Council’s inaction and inability to take these incidents as learning opportunities. He encouraged City Council to make Anaheim safer.
Kenneth Batiste stated the City is $1.5 billion in debt, noting the figure has grown by $1 billion under Mayor Sidhu. He stated residents had to go through Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to get a bill to protect the senior citizen residents of Rancho La Paz because the City did not help them. He stated senior citizens and children should be City Council’s top priorities. He stated the Angel Stadium deal was full of corruption, noting how much more money Dodger Stadium sold for. He stated the City could not afford another term with Mayor Sidhu. He questioned if there has been any return on the City’s large investment in Visit Anaheim at the start of the pandemic.
Presentation: Recognizing Anaheim residents Delilah and Daniel Flores for winning the first season of Top Chef Family Style
Mayor Sidhu recognized Anaheim residents Delilah and Daniel Flores for winning the first season of television show Top Chef Family Style.
CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE:
City Manager Jim Vanderpool announced the Community Services Department had received a $750,000 grant from the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program to implement Little Pine Park. He explained this would transform a 0.4-acre vacant parcel to a new pocket park in District 4 with amenities identified and prioritized through a robust community input process. He noted design work would begin this spring with construction scheduled to start in Winter 2023/2024.
Mr. Vanderpool acknowledged a breakfast hosted by the Anaheim Moose Lodge on January 15, 2021 for the Anaheim Police Department (APD) Team 1 and professional staff working that day. He noted the employees were grateful and thanked the Moose Lodge for their support and appreciation.
He reported the APD Explorers recently competed in the 24th annual Explorer Tactical Competition in Arizona following several months of training and earned eight (8) awards. He offered congratulations to the Explorers and APD.
At 5:53 P.M., Mayor Sidhu recessed the Anaheim City Council to address the Anaheim Housing Authority agenda and reconvened at 5:54 P.M.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
CONSENT CALENDAR: At 5:54 P.M., the consent calendar was considered with Council Member Diaz pulling Item No. 11 for separate discussion and consideration.
For Item No. 04, City Clerk Theresa Bass provided an oral summary of salary and benefits, pursuant to Government Code §54953, that the appointment of Grace Ruiz-Stepter to the position of Housing and Community Development Director included salary in the amount of $223,000 annually and all benefits and perquisites as provided to all other executive managers.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem O’Neil moved to waive reading of all ordinances and resolutions and adopt the balance of the consent calendar, in accordance with reports, certifications, and recommendations furnished each City Council Member and as listed on the consent calendar, seconded by Council Member Diaz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members O’Neil, Diaz, Ma’ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES – 0. Motion carried
4. Approve the appointment and related Employment Agreement with Grace Ruiz-Stepter for the appointment to the position of Housing and Community Development Director, effective February 4, 2022; and authorize the City Manager to execute and administer the agreement and any amendments thereto as approved as to form by the City Attorney.
5. Authorize the purchase of one Pierce fire engine and one Pierce aerial truck from South Coast Fire Equipment, Inc., in a combined amount estimated not to exceed $2,500,000 plus all applicable taxes and fees, for the Anaheim Fire & Rescue Department (purchase is being made utilizing a cooperative purchase agreement established by the Houston-Galveston Area Council that was awarded to Pierce Manufacturing; the purchase is being made through their local authorized reseller as allowed by the terms of the agreement)..
6. Waive the sealed bid requirement of Council Policy 4.0 and authorize the Purchasing Agent to issue a master agreement to Dooley Enterprises, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $364,800 including tax, for the purchase of Winchester brand ammunition for use by the Anaheim Police Department for a one year period with four one-year optional renewals; and authorize the Purchasing Agent to exercise the renewal options.
7. Waive Council Policy 4.1 and approve the agreement with Scott Maddy, dba SDM Consulting, in an amount not to exceed $175,000, to coordinate and manage police facility infrastructure projects as directed, coordinate with Anaheim Police Department Information Technology staff on projects within police facilities, and manage and maintain the department’s 800 MHz radio systems for a one year term; and authorize the Chief of Police to execute any amendments and to take any necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement.
8. Waive Council Policy 4.1 and approve the Professional Services Agreement with HeliStream, Inc., in a total not to exceed amount of $120,000, for specialized pilot training for a one year term with three one-year optional renewals; and authorize the Chief of Police to execute any amendments or optional renewals under the terms and conditions of the agreement.
9. Approve the First Amendment to Agreement with David Taussig & Associates, Inc., dba DTA, extending the initial term for three years with three one-year optional renewals at an annual cost of $53,000 and total not to exceed amount of $350,000, for Mello-Roos special tax administration services for two Community Facilities Districts and consulting services to provide administration for the City’s annual assessment on the Anaheim Resort Maintenance District, and authorize the Finance Director to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
10. Approve License Agreements with CSG EV LLC to construct and operate the Direct Current Fast Charging Electric Vehicle Charging Plazas Project at West Anaheim Youth Center and East Anaheim Community Center, with the City to receive license fees of $6,000 each ($12,000 total) annually with a 2% annual escalation for a ten year term with two five-year optional extensions; authorize the Community Services Director, or designee, to execute the two agreements and any other related documents, and take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreements; and determine that the construction and operation of Direct Current Fast Charging Electric Vehicle Charging Plazas Project at West Anaheim Youth Center and East Anaheim Community Center is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Sections 15301(b), 15303(e), 15304(f), and 15311(b) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
Approve Lot Line Adjustment No. 820 for the West Anaheim Youth Center as it pertains to the Direct Current Fast Charging Electric Vehicle Charging Plazas Project at West Anaheim Youth Center and East Anaheim Community Center, authorize corresponding deed, and authorize the City Clerk to record the Lot Line Adjustment and deed in the Orange County Recorder’s Office.
12. Approve the Second Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Comprehensive Housing Services, Inc., increasing the contract amount from $600,000 to $1,100,000, for staffing support for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program; and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer the amended agreement.
13. Approve a Cooperation Agreement with the Anaheim Housing Authority, in substantial form, to transfer $2,877,959 in HOME American Rescue Plan funds and $3,593,634 in Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention funds from the City to the Authority for the 1251 North Harbor Boulevard Homekey Project; authorize the Acting Director of Community and Economic Development (Department) to execute and administer the agreement; increase the Department’s Fiscal Year 2021/22 budget by $5,476,903 to incorporate federal funds allocated under the HOME American Rescue Plan Program; and amend the Department’s Fiscal Year 2021/22 revenue and expenditures budget to incorporate the transferred funds to support the acquisition and rehabilitation of the Studio 6 Motel project located at 1251 N.
Harbor Blvd. (related to Housing Authority Agenda Item No. 01).
14. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-006 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM reauthorizing the Director of Public Works to execute all Master Agreements, Program Supplemental Agreements, Cooperative Agreements, Fund Exchange Agreements and Fund Transfer Agreements and/or any amendments thereto with the California Department of Transportation and authorize the City Engineer to execute all Project and/or Right of Way Certifications as necessary for Anaheim to receive Federal and/or State funding for certain transportation projects and rescinding Resolution No. 2017-057.
15. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-007 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2021-119 for the purpose of creating, deleting and/or modifying certain classifications represented by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Local 2002, General Management Unit.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-008 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM establishing classifications and rates of compensation for classifications assigned to the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, General Unit.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-009 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2019-118 for establishing classifications and rates of compensation for classifications assigned to Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, Part-Time Unit.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-010 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2015-173 for the purpose of creating, deleting and/or modifying certain unrepresented part-time job classifications.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-011 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2021-122 for the purpose of creating, deleting and/or modifying certain unrepresented classifications designated Executive Management.
16. ORDINANCE NO. 6525 (INTRODUCTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Chapter 1.04 of Title 1 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to departments of the city (modifying the Community and Economic Development Department name to Housing and Community Development Department).
Item No. 16 Ordinance introduced, as amended.
17. ORDINANCE NO. 6522 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Section 18.040.020 (Intent of Individual Zones) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Anaheim Municipal Code to clarify that the “RS-4” Single-Family Residential Zone may be used to implement the Corridor Residential General Plan Land Use Designation for projects with proposed densities that are no greater than 13 dwelling units per acre (Development Project No. 2019-00139) (introduced at the City Council meeting of January 11, 2022, Item No. 16).
ORDINANCE NO. 6523 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Zoning Map referred to in Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to zoning (Development Project No. 2019-00139) (910 South Western Avenue) [Reclassification No. 2019-00325, reclassifying the subject property from the “T” Transition Zone to the “RS-4” Single-Family Residential Zone] (introduced at the City Council meeting of January 11, 2022, Item No. 16).
Determine that the Project qualifies for a Class 32 – In-Fill Development Project Categorical Exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code, Sections 21000-21189.57) as set forth in Section 15332 of the State CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, Sections 15000-15387).
18. ORDINANCE NO. 6524 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Title 17 (Land Development and Resources) and Title 18 (Zoning) of the Anaheim Municipal Code (Code), including Chapters 17.08 (Subdivisions); 18.04 (Single-Family Residential Zones); 18.06 (Multiple-Family Residential Zones); 18.08 (Commercial Zones);
18.10 (Industrial Zone); 18.14 (Public and Special-Purpose Zones); 18.20 (Platinum Triangle Mixed Use (PTMU) Overlay Zone); 18.30 (Downtown Mixed Use (DMU) Overlay Zone); 18.32 (Mixed Use (MU) Overlay Zone); 18.36 (Types of Uses); 18.38 (Supplemental Use Regulations); 18.42 (Parking and Loading); 18.62 (Administrative Reviews); 18.92 (Definitions); 18.120 (Anaheim Canyon Specific Plan No. 2015-1 (SP 2015-1) Zoning and Development Standards); and 18.122 (Beach Boulevard Specific Plan No. 2017-1 (SP 2017- 1) Zoning and Development Standards) of the Anaheim Municipal Code; and making findings in connection therewith (Development Project No. 2021-00216) (Adjustment No. 12 to the City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
Anaheim Canyon Specific Plan No. 2015-1) (Adjustment No. 5 to the Beach Boulevard Specific Plan No. 2017-1) [reflect recent changes in State law related to Senate Bill No. 9] (introduced at the City Council meeting of January 11, 2022, Item No. 17).
Determine that the above actions are exempt from the requirements to prepare additional environmental documentation per California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3); and the Legislature has declared that this ordinance, which implements the provisions of Government Code Section 65852.21, is not a project under CEQA or the CEQA Guidelines.
19. Approve minutes of the City Council meetings of May 18, 2021 and June 8, 2021.
END OF CONENT CALENDAR:
11. Approve a Lease Agreement with Access California Services, with an annual fee of $1.00, for the ground and facilities at 300 W. Carl Karcher Way for a ten year period with up to two five- year optional renewals; and authorize the Community Services Director, or designee, to take the necessary or advisable actions to implement and administer the lease.
Community Development Director Sjany Larson-Cash reported this is a Lease Agreement with Access California Services (Access Cal) for use of the building at 300 West Carl Karcher Way, formerly the site of a University of California at Irvine Medical (UCI Medical) family health center. She reported two proposals were received for use of the building with a multi-departmental staff panel recommending Access Cal’s bid. She reported on Access Cal’s 23 years of providing extensive services to the Anaheim community in a variety of areas. She added Access Cal has demonstrated the financial capacity to operate the site while providing services not relying on City financial support.
She reported the Lease Agreement would be for 10 years at $1 per year. She added Access Cal’s goal is to open the site within 9-12 months after making some renovations to the building.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Diaz applauded Access Cal’s work in the community providing a wide array of services to residents. He noted the Access Cal staff speaks 19 languages as evidence of how many types of people it serves. He thanked Ms. Larson-Cash for putting the Lease Agreement together.
MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to approve a Lease Agreement with Access California Services, with an annual fee of $1.00, for the ground and facilities at 300 W. Carl Karcher Way for a ten year period with up to two five-year optional renewals; and authorize the Community Services Director, or designee, to take the necessary or advisable actions to implement and administer the lease, seconded by Council Member Moreno.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno thanked the staff for making this happen. He stated the City does not always have the funds to provide services to residents who need them the most, but the City does have land, properties, and facilities for non-profits to use to serve the community for $1 a year.
He stated the $1 annual lease is the City’s contribution to the community. He noted Access Cal’s struggles to find the funding for a new facility. He reported Access Cal has served the west Anaheim community well and stated that the City welcomes immigrant and refugee populations.
Council Member Faessel led a congratulatory round of applause for Access Cal Founder and Executive Director, Nahla Kayali. He thanked her for her patience in the long process to get to this point and expressed his happiness. He thanked departing Community Services Superintendent Holly Unruh for her work on this project.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
Council Member Valencia commended the work of Access Cal’s services for the benefit of the City’s residents and expressed support for the item.
Council Member Ma’ae thanked the staff for this project and added a tour of Access Cal’s facility was one of the first things on her to-do list after her appointment. She stated it is obvious how much the staff loves working with Ms. Kayali.
Mayor Sidhu stated Access Cal has been dedicated to providing compassionate services towards positive changes in the community for those most in need, particularly immigrants and refugees. He stated he is an immigrant who arrived in the United States 42 years ago with $6 in his pocket. He stated the City’s leadership vision is to empower the American dream and added he is happy to support this item so Access Cal can perform even more outreach to welcome others to Anaheim, opening the doors of opportunity.
MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to approve a Lease Agreement with Access California Services, with an annual fee of $1.00, for the ground and facilities at 300 W. Carl Karcher Way for a ten year period with up to two five-year optional renewals; and authorize the Community Services Director, or designee, to take the necessary or advisable actions to implement and administer the lease, seconded by Council Member Moreno. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members O’Neil, Diaz, Ma’ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES – 0. Motion carried
20. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-012 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM requesting that the California State Legislature reform Transitional and Supportive Housing laws to protect neighborhoods.
Mayor Sidhu stated he added this item urgently to request State legislators clarify transitional and supportive housing laws. He stated the overconcentration in certain neighborhoods is of critical concern to cities Statewide with no clear and consistent regulatory direction from the State, including the intent of the law. He added this has led to a one-size-fits-all approach inhibiting local control.
Assistant City Manager Greg Garcia stated the City recognizes the importance of supportive and transitional housing as evidenced by its support for many facilities throughout the City. He added there are issues with overconcentration in neighborhoods. He stated State law acknowledges larger facilities can impact the character and livability of neighborhoods, and added State law does include minimum distances between licensed residential care facilities. He added supportive and transitional housing shares many characteristics of residential care facilities, such as a high turnover rate, but is treated differently legally.
Mr. Garcia stated the resolution asks the legislature to consider clarifying legislation to address the impacts associated with the overconcentration of transitional and supportive housing in residential neighborhoods. He reported the resolution asks the State to allow jurisdictions to use the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process, and establish a reasonable distance requirement, similar to residential care facilities.
DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem O’Neil stated he is an ardent supporter of local control but the State continues to erode this concept. He stated the overconcentrating issue at play here was not created intentionally but rather is something yet to be addressed. He clarified that City Council does not oppose transitional housing, supportive housing, or residential care facilities, but rather opposes the City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
overconcentration of these uses in neighborhoods. He thanked Mayor Sidhu for bringing this item forward.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem O’Neill moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2022-012 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM requesting that the California State Legislature reform Transitional and Supportive Housing laws to protect neighborhoods, as amended, changing Item No. 1 in the first Resolved clause on page 2 from “Permit local jurisdictions to regulate…” to “Clarify that local jurisdictions may regulate…”, seconded by Council Member Diaz.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno stated the language captures the concerns in an issue where the City believed it was within State law. He commended The Colony neighborhood for respectfully expressing its concerns about the saturation of such homes there. He echoed Mayor Pro Tem O’Neil’s clarification stating that City Council does want these facilities but with the ability to regulate their locations for better dispersal. He noted they need better clarification from the State on how various State officials interpret the law before entire service-oriented neighborhoods are created. He called for State legislators to look at the issue and act with urgency.
In response to Council Member Moreno’s inquiries, City Attorney Robert Fabela stated he reads Assemblymember Daly’s letter as being the equivalent of a public records request. He reported he has already spoken to City Clerk Theresa Bass about the letter and they would use the timelines of a public records request when responding. He stated this means it would be a prompt response. He confirmed this is typically within 10 days, but noted it could be a staggered release depending on the number of records.
Council Member Moreno suggested getting Assemblymember Daly the records from the past five or 10 years instead of the full 15 to help speed up the process. He stated it is urgent because the deadline to submit bills is forthcoming and the City does not want to miss this legislative cycle. He compared the situation to past crises over the proliferation of short-term rentals.
Mr. Garcia added the only delay in responding to Assemblymember Daly is getting some of the data points. He added staff has the majority of what was requested and would be compiling it quickly. He cited the requested Anaheim Police Department (APD) files as something that may take a little longer to collect.
Council Member Diaz expressed support for the resolution and amendment. He stated he supports this type of housing but added there must be a balance and local jurisdictions need to have a say. He questioned why there was even a need for cities and counties if all of the decisions would be made by the State.
Council Member Moreno stated Anaheim has done more than peer cities in carrying its weight for finding spaces for transitional and supportive homes but added this situation is an unintended consequence. He stated the intent of the law was good for helping to solve a crisis so many other municipalities have not wanted to address.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem O’Neill moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2022-012 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM requesting that the California State Legislature reform Transitional and Supportive Housing laws to protect neighborhoods, as amended, changing Item No. 1 in the first Resolved clause on page 2 from “Permit local jurisdictions to regulate…” to “Clarify that local jurisdictions may regulate…”, seconded by Council Member Diaz.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members O’Neil, Diaz, Ma’ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
At 6:29 P.M., Mayor Sidhu paused the meeting and resumed at 6:30 P.M.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
At 6:30 P.M., Mayor Sidhu took the agenda out of order to consider Public Hearing Item No. 22 prior to Public Hearing Item No. 21.
22. This is a public hearing to 1) consider and discuss draft Council District Maps submitted to the City; 2) receive and file public input on communities of interest, district boundaries, and draft maps; and 3) select a draft map for adoption or select specific draft maps for additional public review and input (continued from the City Council meeting of January 11, 2022, Public Hearing Item No. 21).
Mayor Sidhu stated redistricting was underway to ensure the district boundaries align with the latest United States census data. He commended the amount of public input thus far. He added the City is fortunate its population has not shifted drastically since the districts were first created in 2016.
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported this is the fourth public hearing about the redistricting process. She stated this meeting would include City consultant Dr. Justin Levitt, Vice President of the National Demographics Corporation (NDC), review of the redistricting criteria, a presentation of all submitted draft maps, a request for additional input on communities of interest, and a discussion of the next steps. She reported the first set of draft maps were presented to City Council on November 2, 2021 and posted to the City’s website. She added this included six (6) draft maps drawn by community members and three (3) draft maps prepared by Dr. Levitt. She reported that since the public hearing on November 2, 2021, the City has held seven (7) community meetings at a variety of locations to solicit feedback from the community. She reported nine (9) draft maps have since been submitted, but noted two (2) of them were duplicates of previous maps and one (1) only reflects communities of interest.
Dr. Levitt apologized for his absence at the January 11, 2022 meeting, forcing the postponement to tonight, reporting he had COVID-19. He displayed the current district map, noting the deviation from the largest to the smallest district is 14.34%, exceeding the 10% limit permissible by law. He stated District 5 is well over its ideal size while Districts 3 and 4 both need to gain population. He reviewed the criteria for creating legal maps as outlined in both the federal Voting Rights Act (VRA) and the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA). He noted the equal population criterion requires the inclusion of all residents and not only registered voters.
Dr. Levitt reported Districts 3 and 4 are both majority-Latino by eligible voting populations and this must be considered to satisfy the federal VRA but added this could not be the only factor. He reported on the State’s FAIR MAPS Act’s (FMA) ranked criteria. He reported Draft Map 109 is not contiguous so it fails the first criterion under the FMA. He stated partisanship is not on the list of considerations.
Dr. Levitt reported per direction at the November 2, 2021 meeting, Map 103’s lettered districts have been replaced by numbers. He added the districts in Map 103 also are neither compact nor follow major roads.
Dr. Levitt reported previous feedback on Map 104, generated by NDC, was that the area around Sycamore Junior High School felt more connected to District 3 than District 5. He added this is also one of the most densely populated areas of the City so it also led to an adjustment in District 4. He added NDC Map 105 keeps the entire Sycamore area intact in District 3, but requires dividing The City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
Colony. He added NDC Map 106 adds the Sycamore area to like-minded District 4, compensating by extending District 3 to Ball Road.
Dr. Levitt reported Maps 107-109 were received just before the November 2, 2021 meeting. He added Map 109 is not considered contiguous due to a detached area in District 1 but added a correction could be made with ease if City Council likes the rest of the map.
Dr. Levitt reported Maps 110-116 were received between this meeting and the last one. He stated Map 110 is not sufficiently compact and divides many communities. He reported the deviation on Map 112 is 10.83% making it illegal without some adjustments. He stated Map 114 is the one Ms. Bass mentioned that was submitted in triplicate. He added Map 116, showing only communities of interest, is highly unbalanced for populations but includes many thoughts from the author on why the communities were drawn as such.
Dr. Levitt requested City Council review the maps, select 3-4 favorites meeting the FMA criteria, and make any requests for revisions.
DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Diaz’s inquiry, Dr. Levitt clarified the two majority Hispanic districts are based on the eligible voting-age population.
Mayor Sidhu opened the public hearing.
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of eight (8) public comments were received electronically prior to 5:00 P.M. related to Public Hearing Item No 22. [A final total of nine (9) public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official record]. – See Appendix.
Juana Reyes (translation: Spanish) thanked Council Member Faessel for his support of her community’s Christmas event. She stated her community is predominately Latina but does not have many places for its children to show their creativity and talent. She encouraged City Council to find places for the children to express their creativity. She stated parents could not go to these events with the children because they all work hard to pay very high rents for substandard apartments. She stated the community has to be more united to become richer and asked to keep her community together. She asked for another public hearing before March 1, 2022.
Juanita Ramirez (translation: Spanish) stated she lives in a low-income Latino community at Anaheim Boulevard and Water Street. She asked City Council to be fair in drawing the new maps. She stated many community members are not as informed as she is and asked for empathy for her community.
Eymi Arellano Castro (translation: Spanish) stated she is part of the Hispanic, Spanish-speaking majority from District 3. She added they are also low-income and have low education but hold dreams their children will have a better future. She stated they continue working forward united and keeping a place for their neighbors with the same goals. She stated they need more accessible housing because many have two or more families in one apartment. She called for better education, medicine, public safety, and immigration assistance. She urged City Council to consider these things when redistricting and requested another public hearing so more members of her community could attend.
David Klawe reported drafting Maps 101 and 102 with Map 102 being his preference. He stated west Anaheim is a community of interest, but some maps split it off east of Euclid Avenue. He added he would be happy to answer questions about his submissions.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
Mayor Sidhu closed the public hearing.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Diaz stated Anaheim is 54% Latino but only has two (2) majority Latino districts. He stated having at least three (3) districts be majority Latino would reflect the City’s population better, but noted they have to comply with laws.
Council Member Faessel stated he is focused on the area where Districts 3, 4, and 5 intersect, noting District 5 is about 5,500 people larger than it should be and Districts 3 and 4 are 2-3,000 people too small. He added he has not focused on Districts 1, 2, and 6, which are appropriately sized. He stated it is important to keep The Colony intact and several maps do not do this. He added several maps separate the Platinum Triangle into multiple districts, but he stated it should be kept intact.
Council Member Faessel commended Mr. Klawe’s work on Map 102 and added, while trying to keep The Colony and Platinum Triangle intact, he was tinkering with moving the eastern end of District 5 to Tustin Avenue. He added most of this area is commercial and including it in District 5 makes sense with a simple demarcation point.
Council Member Faessel stated Map 114 did initially not impress him for separating the Platinum Triangle, but then it inspired him to consider Map 106 giving the Platinum Triangle back to District 5 and extending District 4 up to an area around Lincoln Avenue. He added the Map 114 extension into the Platinum Triangle could be halved at Cerritos Avenue, but also noted the remaining portion in District 4 would be almost all commercial. He added he would term out when his current term is over and he is thinking not of himself but rather of what would be best for his successor. He added it was not right to split the Platinum Triangle anywhere south of the Union Pacific Railroad because this is the definition of the Platinum Triangle.
Council Member Valencia commended the public engagement and outreach.
In response to Council Member Valencia’s inquiry, Ms. Bass reported this is the fourth public hearing before City Council on redistricting. She reported there were seven (7) public meetings in September 2021 to educate residents on the redistricting process. She stated there were another seven (7) community meetings after the first draft maps were released in November 2021. She reported going to each of the six (6) districts for at least one (1) meeting. She added there is one (1) more upcoming public hearing before City Council. She added staff would go out to all six (6) districts again through the Neighborhood Services community meetings before the next public hearing before the Council.
Council Member Valencia encouraged residents to attend one of these upcoming community meetings.
Council Member Valencia stated Map 114 is within the mandatory parameters. He agreed with Council Member Faessel’s concerns about breaking up the Platinum Triangle and asked for a draft using Map 114’s concepts without dividing the Platinum Triangle.
Mayor Pro Tem O’Neil stated he does not like districting in general because it creates competing interests and can vulcanize issues. He added, in part because of this, he understands his District 6 better than the rest of the City. He agreed they should keep areas like The Colony and Platinum Triangle together so long as they can do so while complying with the laws. He stated his job is easy because District 6 is geographically restricted and it is only a matter of where its western border falls.
He stated his preference for maps to continue forward are Maps 101, 102, 104, and 114.
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Council Member Moreno stated he generally agrees with the previous comments about the communities of interest. He stated the first six (6) years of districts have worked well and the current map has achieved the essence of how it was presented six (6) years ago in capturing neighborhoods.
He encouraged keeping the maps as close to the current one as possible for continuity as residents are identifying with their district and respective Council Members.
Council Member Moreno agreed the Sycamore area of District 5 has been one of the hardest to get people to understand due to its similarity to District 3.
In response to Council Member Moreno’s inquiry, Dr. Levitt reported the bulk of the questions in the adjustment process have been about how Districts 3, 4, and 5 come together east of The Colony. He added it is driven by the fact that District 5 has to lose population to bring the districts into balance.
He stated he has heard often that the Sycamore Junior High School attendance area goes west with State College Boulevard serving as a demographic marker. He added the current East Street border is not as major of a road as State College Boulevard. He credited Mr. Klawe with drawing Map 102, which is very close to one he was working on. He stated his Maps 104-106 look at different ways to divide the area between East Street and State College Boulevard between Districts 3 and 4. He added they have not heard as much from Platinum Triangle residents but noted it is a well-defined planned community and they should try to keep it together. He added, conversely, they have heard from the Sycamore community that they feel more attached to Districts 3 and 4 so this is influencing map submissions.
Council Member Moreno stated his preference is to keep the maps as similar as possible, noting Districts 1 and 2 did not have the voice of a Council representative for 22 years before districting. He stated the triangle around Sycamore in Map 104 may make it confusing to residents, but he likes the idea of connecting the area to where it feels it belongs.
In response to Mayor Sidhu’s inquiries, Dr. Levitt stated between both what he is hearing as feedback from City Council and legal concerns, he would keep Maps 101, 102, 104, 106, 114, and 115. He confirmed Mr. Klawe prefers Map 102 to Map 101 so they could eliminate Map 101.
In response to Council Member Moreno’s inquiries, Dr. Levitt clarified Map 102 is cleaner than Map 101 because Map 101 only has a sliver of the Sycamore area protruding out from District 3 into District 5. He stated the current eastern boundary of District 5 came from a request by the City’s Planning Department, but moving it to Tustin Avenue or anywhere into this mostly-commercial space would not have a significant impact. He confirmed one of the potential downsides to Map 102 is there would only be one (1) district with a Latino voting majority.
In response to Mayor Sidhu’s inquiry, Ms. Bass confirmed staff’s current goal is to have some maps to focus on through the next meeting where one (1) will be adopted.
In response to Mayor Sidhu’s inquiry, Dr. Levitt stated both Maps 104 and 106 have two (2) majority Latino districts by voting-age population. He added Map 114 has three (3) majority Latino districts.
Dr. Levitt stated Map 115 does not achieve what he has heard as City Council’s concern about keeping districts close to their current alignments. He stated it does keep The Colony together but separates other neighborhoods like Little Arabia and the Anaheim Resort district.
Mayor Sidhu stated he does not prefer dividing the Arab community.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
In response to Mayor Sidhu’s inquiry, Dr. Levitt confirmed Maps 104, 106, and 114, all have at least two majority Latino districts and keep The Colony intact.
In response to Council Member Ma’ae’s inquiries, Dr. Levitt confirmed Map 114 has three (3) majority Latino districts due to how the Platinum Triangle is split. He added Latinos are the largest voting demographic in the current District 5 but are not a majority like they would be in Map 114. He added in Map 102, Latinos would remain a plurality in Districts 4 and 5, just shy of 50%, while District 3 would be the only one (1) with a majority. He confirmed in Map 102, it is a matter of just 1% or 2% keeping the Latino voting population short of a majority in District 4 in particular.
Ms. Bass stated in Map 102, District 3 would be 58% Latino, District 4 would be 49% Latino, and District 5 would be 46%.
Council Member Ma’ae thanked Mr. Klawe for all the time and effort he put into his maps.
In response to Council Member Faessel’s inquiries, Dr. Levitt stated Map 114 is the only one of the five (5) selected options, which keeps The Colony together, but not the Platinum Triangle. He stated they could look into modifications if Council so desires.
Council Member Faessel pledged to continue to argue to keep the Platinum Triangle together but acknowledged everyone has an opportunity to speak on the subject.
Council Member Valencia commended simplifying the process by dwindling the pool of maps. He agreed they should do the best they could to not split the Platinum Triangle but added they should primarily try to keep demographics as close as possible. He echoed Council Member Diaz, noting the City is currently 54% Latino with data indicating this population would continue to grow. He stated having three (3) majority Latino districts while staying as close to the current districts as possible is his preferred direction.
Council Member Moreno thanked Mayor Sidhu for streamlining the discussion by narrowing the map choices and echoed Council Member Faessel’s call to keep the Platinum Triangle intact.
In response to Council Member Moreno’s inquiry, Council Member Valencia stated from growing up there, the area bordered by East Street, Lincoln Avenue, State College Boulevard, and Ball Road is a community of interest, known as the Boysen Park neighborhood. He added the challenge with the process is creating a perfect map keeping communities intact.
Mr. Levitt stated a good map to bring to the next City Council meeting based on the conversation would take Map 106 and keep the Boysen Park area in District 4 without going quite as far north.
Council Member Valencia stated Dr. Levitt is in line with this suggestion, perhaps placing the northern border at either Lincoln Avenue or Broadway. He added Map 114 better articulates how this area feels more like west Anaheim.
In response to Council Member Valencia’s inquiry, Council Member Ma’ae agreed the extended area for District 2 west of Euclid Street on Map 114 resembles other District 2 neighborhoods.
Council Member Faessel stated he is unsure what residents at each end of Map 106’s version of District 4 would have in common. He stated this map appears impractical due to the extended ends of the district, particularly the non-compact connector at Vermont Avenue.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
MOTION: Council Member Ma’ae moved to focus on Maps 102, 104, 106, 114, and 115, at the next public hearing. Council Member Moreno seconded the motion.
DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Moreno’s inquiry, Dr. Levitt confirmed the next meeting would feature Maps 102, 104, 106, 114, and 115, as well as at least one (1) revised map he would draw, and any maps submitted by community members before the next public hearing.
In response to Ms. Bass’ inquiry, Mayor Sidhu stated Map 115 would not be included because it divides the Arab-American community.
MOTION: Council Member Ma’ae moved to receive and file public input and to focus on Draft Map Nos. 102, 104, 106, 114, and an additional revised map(s) to be created by demographer Dr. Justin Levitt based on comments made during the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Moreno.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members O’Neil, Diaz, Ma’ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
21. PROPOSED APPLICATION FEE FOR URBAN LOT SPLITS
REQUEST: Planning and Building Department Fees - The City Council will consider a resolution to establish an application fee for ministerial review of a tentative parcel map required for Urban Lot Splits as required by Senate Bill No. 9.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The City Council will consider whether the proposed action is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to prepare additional environmental documentation pursuant to Section 21080 (b)(8) of the California Public Resources Code.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-103 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM establishing an application fee for a Ministerial Tentative Parcel Map for an Urban Lot Split (flat fee of $6,000).
Determine that the adoption of the proposed application fee is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 21080(b)(8) of the California Public Resources Code.
Planning and Building Director Ted White reported the item is a proposed application fee for tentative parcel maps for Urban Lot Splits associated with Senate Bill (SB) 9. He added on January 11, 2022 City Council introduced an ordinance amending various chapters of the Anaheim Municipal Code providing local standards and regulations related to SB 9. He added the ordinance was adopted earlier in the meeting as Item No. 18.
Mr. White reported SB 9 requires the ministerial approval of one (1) additional housing unit on a single-family lot, and the ministerial approval of urban lot splits. He advised, per the new ordinance, applicants must apply for a tentative parcel map. He reported, consistent with other administrative applications, staff proposes a flat fee to recoup staff’s time and resources. He explained it is a flat fee because staff does not anticipate a broad range of complex applications. He noted a flat fee requires less administrative time than hourly rate fees. He advised staff proposes and recommends a $6,000 fee.
Mayor Sidhu opened the public hearing. There being no in-person speakers or written comments, Mayor Sidhu closed the public hearing.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
MOTION: Council Member Faessel moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2022-103__A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM establishing an application fee for a Ministerial Tentative Parcel Map for an Urban Lot Split (flat fee of $6,000) and determine that the adoption of the proposed application fee is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 21080(b)(8) of the California Public Resources Code, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem O’Neil.
DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Moreno’s inquiry, Mr. White clarified the fee is being set at $6,000 instead of matching the $10,000 fee for a tentative parcel map application because these applications would be simpler by nature. He added these SB 9-related splits are limited to single-family zones and would only split parcels in two (2) so staff anticipates the applications would be a straightforward review process.
Council Member Moreno clarified the fees cover the cost of staff for performing these actions and are not intended to pad the General Fund.
In response to Council Member Moreno’s inquiry, Mr. White stated Anaheim is ahead of surrounding jurisdictions on implementing SB 9. He stated the City’s parcel map fee, which informed the proposed fee’s level, is in line with other cities.
In response to Council Member Diaz’s inquiry, Mr. White confirmed this fee is not for the City’s profit but rather just to cover City’s staff’s time and expenses for processing the application.
MOTION: Council Member Faessel moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2022-103__A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM establishing an application fee for a Ministerial Tentative Parcel Map for an Urban Lot Split (flat fee of $6,000) and determine that the adoption of the proposed application fee is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 21080(b)(8) of the California Public Resources Code, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem O’Neil. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members O’Neil, Diaz, Ma’ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS (non-agenda items): None
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS/AGENDA REQUESTS:
Council Member Moreno hoped everyone was keeping well and safe during the COVID surge and was pleased to see that the recent communications showed the positivity rates trending down. He thanked Planning and Building Director Ted White and City Manager Jim Vanderpool for joining him in a Zoom community forum to discuss concerns from the Westmont/Colony neighborhood about Grandma’s House of Hope. He thanked residents for their communications and learning about the process and assured them their concerns were being heard and making an impact on the City. He noted the meeting was held virtually in an abundance of caution due to COVID. He announced he was looking for youth between the ages of 14 and 21 to join a District 3 Youth Advisory Group to work with the appointed Youth Commissioners to represent the interests of youth in the City and encouraged anyone interested to contact his office. He thanked Community Services staff for hosting a virtual meeting last week with the Rose/Bush/Vine neighborhood to listen to concerns. He acknowledged the annual serve-a-thon hosted by the Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD) on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and thanked all those who came out to work on community services projects at their schools and surrounding neighborhoods. He noted that Council approved receipt of City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
increased funding for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and encouraged residents to search the program on the City’s website if they needed resources and assistance. He encouraged residents to continue following public health and safety guidelines, to get vaccinated and boosted, and to visit the City’s website or www.myturn.ca.gov to learn where to get vaccinated. He thanked his colleagues for the engaging discussion of redistricting.
Council Member Diaz congratulated Grace Ruiz-Stepter on her appointment as the Housing and Community Development Director and applauded her hard work, commitment, and passion for the community. He noted Council’s approval of the construction of EV Charging Stations at the West Anaheim Youth Center and East Anaheim Community Center and stated it was a part of making west Anaheim and Beach Blvd. even better, along with moving toward the future of electric vehicles. He reported his attendance last Saturday, with Mayor Pro Tem O’Neil, at the ABC SoCal Craft Championship and noted the impressiveness of the quality education students receive at no cost for electricity, plumbing, IT, and related industries. He highlighted a Fullerton College program, in partnership with Loara High School, on an afterschool drone pilot program open to all AUHSD students to become licensed drone pilots. He announced the Knott Avenue Christian Church food pantry held every other Thursday and noted his partnership with them on January 27, starting at 12:00 P.M., to distribute free COVID at-home testing kits and masks, while supplies last.
Council Member Ma’ae shared her appreciation for the representation west Anaheim received from the entire City Council over the past 20 years prior to redistricting, highlighting support received for annual tree lightings at John Marshall and Twila Reid parks. She expressed gratitude for all who came to the Redistricting public hearing and to those who have been attending the community meetings, particularly to David Klawe for his time and determination to study and understand the City and its needs. She looked forward to the outcome of the process. She shared her attendance this week at the Gilbert High School Friday Night Live Club event and fourth annual food drive. She commended the work of the continuation school in teaming up with No Kid Hungry to collect food and learn about the impact of hunger in Anaheim and Orange County where one in almost seven children are at risk of hunger. She noted schools provide free breakfast and lunch throughout the day to all students. She acknowledged the president of the club, Michael, and noted he won the raffle of Angels tickets and recognized Nicky Resch, club advisor and chair of the Gilbert High School English Department for doing an amazing job.
Council Member Faessel reported retired Anaheim Police Chief Roger Baker passed away earlier this month in Missouri and requested the meeting adjourn in his memory. He noted Police Chief Baker served the City for 29 years from September 1974 through his service as Chief from 1999 to his retirement in 2003. He stated he also attended the ABC SoCal Craft event and noted many great tradespeople will come from the program. He shared that Council recognized February as Career and Technical Education Month, and noted his pride at serving as a technical educator and teacher since 1975. He announced the upcoming Tet Lunar New Year on February 1 when families and friends gather for festivities. He reported the loss of former K-9 officer, Jäger, who served the City from 2012 to 2017 and had a tremendous track record on the job. He requested a meeting with the City Manager and senior staff to address concerns in the East Ward Terrace and Elsenia Way neighborhood, where despite great improvements made by the Police, Fire, Community Services, and Public Utilities Departments, still needed additional attention to fight mischief.
Council Member Valencia expressed his excitement to see the completion of Little Pine Park coming together and on track, thanking Community Services Director Sjany Larsen-Cash and her team for moving the project forward. He congratulated Grace Ruiz-Stepter on her appointment, looked forward to her continued service to the City, and encouraged residents to continue taking the necessary precautions to fight COVID.
City Council Minutes of January 25, 2022
Mayor Sidhu thanked staff for doing a great job and told them to keep up the good work. He noted the Coronavirus Omicron variant was still around and encouraged residents to get tested at any of the City’s six testing sites, which were seeing shorter lines, to get vaccinated, to wear masks in public, and to take care of themselves, their families, and their neighbors.
ADJOURNMENT:
At 8:22 P.M., Mayor Sidhu adjourned the City Council in memory of retired Anaheim Police Chief Roger Baker.
Respectfully submitted,
Theresa Bass, CMC
City Clerk