ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 10, 2023
The regular meeting of January 10, 2023 was called to order at 3:03 P.M. in the Council Chamber of Anaheim City Hall, located at 200 S. Anaheim Boulevard. The meeting notice, agenda and related materials were duly posted on January 5, 2023.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Ashleigh E. Aitken and Council Members Jose Diaz, Carlos A.
Leon, Stephen Faessel, and Natalie Meeks. Mayor Pro Tem Natalie Rubalcava joined the meeting during Closed Session. [One Council Member vacancy]
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Jim Vanderpool, City Attorney Robert Fabela, City Clerk Theresa Bass
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Robert Fabela announced that Closed Session Item No. 03 pertained to potential litigation related to the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s claims related to Grandma’s House of Hope and the City’s Housing Element.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS: None
CLOSED SESSION: At 3:04 P.M., Mayor Aitken recessed to closed session for consideration of the following:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
(Subdivision (a) of Section 54956.9 of the California Government Code) Name of Case: Santiago Geologic Hazard Abatement District v. City of Anaheim, Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2021 01203933 (and related JAMS arbitration proceeding, Case No. 1200059076)
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
(Subdivision (a) of Section 54956.9 of the California Government Code) Name of Case: Grandma’s House of Hope v. City of Anaheim et al., Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2022-01241823
3. 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
4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
Name of Cases: Security National Insurance Co. v. City of Anaheim, USDC Case No. 8:20- cv-00518-JVS (ADSx); Fermin Valenzuela, et al. v. City of Anaheim, et al., USDC Case No.
SACV17-00278 AG (DFMx)
At 5:00 P.M., Mayor Aitken reconvened the Anaheim City Council.
ITEM # 07
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Ashleigh E. Aitken and Council Members Natalie Rubalcava, Jose Diaz, Carlos A. Leon, Stephen Faessel, and Natalie Meeks [One Council Member vacancy]
INVOCATION: Pastor Tim Eaton, Zion Lutheran Church and Chaplain to Anaheim Police Department
FLAG SALUTE: Council Member Jose Diaz
PRESENTATION: Recognizing the winners of the 2022 Anaheim Beautiful Holiday Lights contest Anaheim Beautiful President Lori Dinwiddie presented the Miss Anaheim Beautiful Choice Award, awards to the highest scoring homes in each District, along with five Bright and Beautiful Awards selected on a City-wide basis. She thanked City staff for its support, Council Members for their district nominations, and Anaheim Public Utilities for its sponsorship and education on the use of LED lights.
ACCEPTANCE OF OTHER RECOGNITIONS (To be presented at a later date):
Recognizing January 11, 2023, as Human Trafficking Awareness Day Waymakers Chief Executive Officer Ronetta Johnson accepted the recognition and spoke of the efforts of Waymakers in collaboration of City and County partners, including the Anaheim Police Department (APD).
Recognizing January 27, 2023, as World Holocaust Remembrance Day At 5:13 P.M., Mayor Aitken called to order the Successor Agency to the Anaheim Redevelopment Agency, Anaheim Public Financing Authority, Anaheim Housing and Public Improvements Authority, and Anaheim Housing Authority (in joint session with the City Council).
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDAS: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS (all agenda items, except public hearings): Prior to receipt of public comments, an outline public comments procedures and a brief decorum statement was provided by City Clerk Theresa Bass.
City Clerk Bass reported that a total of 13 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 13 public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official records]. – See Appendix.
Paul Hyek called for a cleanup of the Bridges at Kraemer Place Homeless Shelter as part of Item No. 12 due to the presence of drugs and other illegal activities, including drivers with invalid licenses. He called to have skilled homeless residents to help run the facility. He criticized the poor quality of the facility’s security and culinary staff. He encouraged partnerships with churches to help house the homeless. He stated a parking structure could be converted into a shelter. He called for walk-in, walk- out services and criticized the operating abilities of Mercy House.
Mark Richard Daniels stated homeless issues like those in Item No. 12 should be the City’s highest priority and inclusive of new ideas. He agreed with Mr. Hyek about the mismanagement of Mercy City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
House. He recommended creating a Task Force or Commission on homelessness to investigate the subhuman living conditions in local shelters. He stated homelessness is the City’s most important issue and encouraged the Council to put the matter front-and-center during their terms. He added the Invocation should be conducted from a more prominent location within the Council Chambers.
Mike Robbins complimented Mayor Aitken’s visual appearance of leadership and criticized Council Member Meeks. He noted Council Member Faessel has blocked many affordable housing projects and added the City’s lower-income population needs to be addressed despite the sums of money builders bring into the City. He stated the City needs more affordable housing – up to 100% of a development. He cited Ball Road and Anaheim Blvd. as areas needing much more low-income housing as opposed to additional retail space. He added the People’s Homeless Task Force continues to request permission to provide oversight of shelters and other projects. He stated it should be mandatory for low-cost housing to be included in every project. He noted all funds the People’s Homeless Task Force and City spend on litigation could instead be spent helping the homeless and expressed hopes of avoiding further litigation with the City.
Jeanine Robbins reported the City is severely lacking in several areas of its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) numbers but added this has been known for years. She noted new projects approved by staff, the Planning Commission, and the City Council ignore the need for affordable housing. She called for a housing mandate for all new developments and for all surplus land to be sent out for affordable housing bids. She encouraged the City Council to seek out State and federal matching funds to support affordable housing development. He proposed giving developers the option of either using 25% of the project for moderate-income housing, 20% of the project for low- income housing, or 15% of the project for very-low-income housing. She stated the lack of affordable housing has been ignored by the City for far too long. She noted all four newly-elected City Council Members campaigned on affordable housing and implored upon them to now do what is right. She suggested a vacancy tax so the empty Platinum Triangle units can pay for low-income housing. She inquired when the Housing Element will be resubmitted to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
Cassandra Perez, representing United States Congressman Lou Correa, read a letter from Congressman Correa expressing his strong support of Item No. 17. The letter added he was proud to secure the $2 million grant for the La Palma Park Soccer Fields Project, lauding the recreational opportunities they will provide in an under-served area of the City. The letter requested the City Council approve Item No. 17.
Tony Flores, Senior Field Representative for Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, read a letter from Assemblymember Valencia encouraging the City Council to approve Item No. 18 to accept a $15 million state grant to revitalize Boysen Park. The letter noted Boysen Park is one of the City’s most- used open spaces and added the State grant will enhance its safety, security, and amenities.
Aida Garcia reported former Mayor Harry Sidhu tabled rent stabilization prior to his resignation amidst a corruption investigation. She stated the corruption wronged the residents of Rancho La Paz Mobile Home Park. She called for amends from the City and a rent stabilization ordinance retroactive to 2019. She recommended partnering with Habitat for Humanity for civic housing projects.
Cecil Jordan Corkern reported he is working on gun laws with Congressman Correa. He reported The Walt Disney Company is involved in sex trafficking and pornography, leading to 17 arrests in Florida.
He reported he is compiling an encyclopedia of school shootings, including Columbine High School in Colorado. He provided his address and phone number for City Council outreach. He introduced himself to Mayor Aitken and noted he has been working on Disneyland security since 2017 with Council Member Faessel and former Mayor Tom Tait.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Keith Mataya, Vice President of Grants and Research for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County, expressed his appreciation for the City’s partnership and wished the City Council a happy National Mentoring Month. He reported the chapter will be hosting the national convention of Big Brothers Big Sisters creating the nation’s largest gathering of mentors in 2023. He noted the importance of National Mentoring Month and lauded the good works of the organization with the City’s and County’s youth – noting 98% of their students graduate high school on time and 67% are the first in their families to attend college. He invited the Council Members and all other attendees to mentor youth for the organization to help the City’s youth.
An unidentified representative from Patriots and Paws introduced her organization which provides practical home furnishings for veterans, active duty service members, and reservists from the City of Fresno south. She invited the Council Members to their headquarters in Anaheim to learn how to better help the City’s veterans and other service members. She reported Council Member Faessel and others have supported the organization in the past. She noted the 126,000 volunteer hours the organization has provided the community along with direct donations for veterans and service members.
Wes Jones reported former Mayor Tait dubbed the Council Chambers “the people’s house.” He stated the current security levels are unwelcome to public participation and discourage something which should be encouraged. He called for the removal of City Hall security. He stated, contrary to comments made by Mayor Aitken in her campaign, the City can afford to keep libraries open over the weekend if they prioritize it. He encouraged keeping libraries open over the weekends and added a library can be an island of learning in the pockets of deep poverty throughout Districts 1-5. He called for a partnership between the City, schools, and libraries to keep them open. He noted the parks and recreation department, including after-school programs, have been gutted since 2008, leaving the children of working parents to fend for themselves. He called on the City to remove the entitlements from the Greenlaw Development, LLC deal so the next sale of the property is clean. He echoed Ms.
Robbins’ call for mandatory affordable housing units ranging from 15-25% depending on the level of affordability, noting the figures have worked for the City in the past.
Victor Mendez, resident of the city of Santa Ana, stated he is part of a volunteer project to recruit candidates willing to serve on Orange County’s boards and commissions. He encouraged the Council Members to circulate the informational email he sent them last month to assist in the effort. He noted the array of matters covered by County boards and commissions on Anaheim’s behalf and encouraged residents to look into public service.
John Dunton reported residents who came en masse to a recent City Council meeting to complain about their landlord have collectively enlisted his legal assistance. He reported meeting with Management Fellow Nick Gomez, lauding his response, and distributed the information to relevant City staff. He stated the bilingual Mr. Gomez is attentive to the people and an asset to the City staff.
Bob Donelson thanked Council Member Leon for his comments at the last meeting on the District 4 vacancy-filling process. He expressed hopes the City Council will hold a Town Hall meeting prior to the next meeting so District 4 residents can hear from the candidates. He noted the Sherwood Village and Ponderosa Park areas have important but very different issues facing them. He added he would like an opportunity to speak with the candidates as a District 4 resident. He added it would be more transparent and help erase the bitter taste in the mouths of residents after the seemingly-preordained appointment of former Council Member Gloria Ma’ae in 2021 to fill a vacancy.
Bryan Kaye stated Human Trafficking Month seems like it is celebrating people trafficked by the Anaheim Police Department (APD). He expressed hopes the crimes of past Councils are now in the City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
past. He encouraged Mayor Aitken to directly conduct business with him rather than through the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He reported on his complaint against an APD officer who used hate speech towards him after illegally turning off his body camera and injuring him. He reported other APD officers told him they are happy Officer Michael Cunha is not working as a School Resource Officer. He encouraged a meeting with Mayor Aitken to discuss past crimes committed by the APD.
Vern Nelson encouraged campaign finance reform, having hybrid video conferenced City Council meetings like almost every other City, and having the “City of Kindness” motto reinstalled on the City’s website. He agreed with Council Member Leon’s comments at the last meeting about the need to have a Town Hall style meeting with District 4 Council candidates so residents can ask them questions and express opinions. He stated the matter is highly important and a Town Hall meeting will cost less than a Special Election. He added District 4 is the one most bedeviled by short-term rentals – attributing the root of the issue to payments to former Mayor Sidhu. He added the crooked Greenlaw Development deal which recently fell through was also set for District 4. He confessed he and his wife Donna were the ones who informed the investigators about the potentially corrupt deal, leading to the cold feet from its financiers who were also financial backers of former Mayor Sidhu. He noted they now have four new Council Members and added Council Member Faessel has restarted the City Council’s Affordable Housing Working Group. He encouraged the City Council to forget about the stale development fee and get serious about following the State’s mandates. He noted Planning Commissioner Steve White suggested the old 15-25% formula cited by other public speakers which had worked for the City in the past.
Victoria Michaels stated she believes in integrity and pledged to call out the Council Members if she feels their integrity is lacking. She told the story of a woman living in a Motel 6 on State College Blvd. who cannot afford food due to what she pays for room rent. She encouraged the City to help her, noting she is known to City Net and other organizations. She questioned who is monitoring the publicly-funded City Net and the Illumination Foundation. She identified the woman as Sandra Goins and requested assistance for her.
Denise Barnes commended Council Member Leon on his campaign and lauded Mayor Aitken’s honest campaign run with integrity. She expressed support for Item No. 11, commending the work of Orange County Sanitation District General Manager Jim Herberg. She encouraged the City Manager to increase the volume of food available for distributions, noting there can be large quantities of donatable food left over after events at the Honda Center. She encouraged the Council Members to champion food donations for those in need and housing. She encouraged the Council Members to hire aides so they have the help they need to manage their workloads. She noted they can ask Council Members Diaz and Faessel about the benefit of hiring aides, adding it should be a priority.
She noted the new Council Members have all said they love Anaheim so they should plug away at improving it without making residents have to wait for a phone call back.
Peter Warner congratulated the newly-elected Council Members. He reported a person who goes by the name Stingray has stolen clothing from him twice. He added the most recent theft was at Fullerton Transportation Center and the other on a Metrolink train. He added Stingray is being housed in the City’s Bridges at Kraemer Place Homeless Shelter. He called for property searches at the shelter with offenders being handed over to the APD or other applicable law enforcement agency based upon jurisdiction. He called for properly functioning lighting in stations and on platforms. He encouraged the City to find better homeless shelter providers and to enforce competitive pricing laws when bids next go out so Mercy House cannot have an unconstitutional reign by being the only operator.
Kenneth Batiste congratulated the new Council Members. He acknowledged he has years of hostility built up in him from hating politics and his hate of corruption is even stronger. He stated the previous City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
City Council flaunted its corruption in the face of residents, putting money over human concerns. He stated the election of Council Member Leon brought a lot of smiles. He encouraged walk-in homeless shelters, comparing it to needing an appointment to go to church as opposed to getting people when they are ready to be saved. He noted it is a County problem. He stated that City Hall security is necessary because the corruption was taking seniors from their homes, scaring them, and requiring a fence. He called on Mayor Aitken to reevaluate parking in neighborhoods with clusters of apartments, noting sometimes multiple families have to cram into a single unit. He stated if the City Council intends to make a real difference they need to see campaign finance reform, noting the City is $3 billion in debt. He called for a Gate Tax and rent control, adding when renters are stable the City is stable. He added he will be watching Council Members Diaz and Meeks to see if their votes will be to the status quo of big special interests like Disneyland. He stated there are two Anaheims and encouraged bringing them together.
Yesenia Rojas stated as a District 5 resident the people are there to work together with the new City Council regardless of their district residency. She stated her requests are not for herself but for her community. She thanked Council Member Faessel for all the City Council has done to give back to residents since December, including distributing toys to children through the Anaheim Fire & Rescue.
She stated the City needs everyone to work together for the future of their children.
Johnathan Hernandez welcomed Council Member Leon, noting he and Mayor Aitken earned their seats without special interests. He cautioned a revolution is coming to make the City’s leaders make good decisions. He added he will stand with whoever tries to take the Council Members out of office should they not make the right decisions to protect residents from the trauma many of them face. He questioned why they are still having discussions about APD violence. He noted he has been elected to the City of Santa Ana’s City Council where he serves the residents of Ward 5. He stated he will hold the Anaheim Council Members accountable to deliver service to residents the same way he has held himself accountable. He noted four APD officers killed Brandon Lopez in 2021 by shooting him 22 times but have not been held accountable and remain on the APD force. He noted Officer Catalin Panov has now been involved in three shooting deaths while with the APD, adding how much the City has had to pay out in court settlements due to her. He stated the people will prevail in the trial over Mr. Lopez’s killing and the record will how cowards on the City Council are protecting killer officers.
He stated he looks forward to building a justice and peace-centered community with Mayor Aitken and Council Member Leon and encouraged the City Council to get rid of the officers who killed Mr.
Lopez. He cautioned justice will prevail in court over Officers Panov, Paul Delgado, Brett Heitmann, and Kenneth Weber.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS:
Council Member Meeks wished everyone a Happy New Year and, as the City’s representative on the Orange County Water District, provided an update on the rain and noted it is currently above average for the season, which is expected to continue.
Council Member Faessel requested the meeting adjourn in memory of JoAn Burdick, Anaheim High School (AHS) Class of 1951, AHS Hall of Fame inductee, stage and screen star, and community volunteer. He thanked Larry Larsen and Vern Nelson for their online comments regarding Ms.
Burdick. He displayed photos and highlighted the Anaheim Public Library’s 3D Printing Program that started in 2019 as part of their STEAM program, including 40 classes held in 2022 with over 2,400 participating residents. He congratulated the Library and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Anaheim for helping expand the program. He reported that the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) elected a new Chairperson, Don Ortega, from Fullerton who represents San Fernando, who is the first Latino to hold the position in the 94-year history of the MWD.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Council Member Diaz highlighted District 1 small business Hajime Ramen Bar located at 2717 West Lincoln Avenue, noting they serve ramen, soup, sushi, and teriyaki, and have been open for five years. He thanked Walmart for assisting with façade improvements and improving District 1 at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Beach Blvd. as well as their donations to the Anaheim Health Fair and the Anaheim Police Foundation. He thanked Mayor Aitken for touring Beach Blvd. with State Senator Josh Newman and was thankful for State partnerships, requesting that the next tour include Congressman Lou Correa. Council Member Diaz invited the public to a pop-up tent on Wednesday, January 11, 2:30 – 4:30 P.M., at the corner of Beach Blvd. and Rome Avenue to ask questions and learn more about the Rebuild Beach efforts.
Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava thanked department heads and staff for their responsiveness to constituents, specifically Code Enforcement for their graffiti clean-up efforts near Patrick Henry Elementary School and Public Works for responding on a Saturday to address a tree removal issue.
She announced an Orange County Young LULAC event on Sunday, January 15, 3:00 – 5:30 P.M., and thanked Community Services Director Sjany Larson-Cash for her assistance. Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava stated they would share details of this event on her webpage.
Council Member Leon wished everyone a Happy New Year in both English and Spanish. He reported his attendance at a tour of housing projects and meeting with the City’s partners, and thanked staff for their efforts. He reported his attendance at a Community Services Department holiday breakfast, an Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) team meeting, presentation, and tour, and a toy giveaway in the ABC neighborhood near Brookhurst and Crescent that several departments and the California Highway Patrol assisted with. He congratulated Kathy and Art from K&A Café for their Christmas Eve brunch and event along with Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava. He thanked APU for their donation of water and resources to Buhos Marching Band from Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico that participated in the Rose Parade. He reported his attendance at a Dia de Reyes event in Circle Park and the swearing-in ceremony for the Orange County Board of Supervisors, congratulating Supervisors Chaffee, Sarmiento, and Foley. He reported that he has been working with staff on the Charter Review and would likely bring it to City Council at the first meeting in February for consideration and thanked District 2 residents and neighbors for their comments and participation.
Mayor Aitken thanked City staff for hosting and attending the Mayor’s Open House. She noted her office was able to help support the Buhos Marching Band before the Rose Parade and thanked the offices of Congressman Correa, Santa Ana Mayor Amezcua, and Irvine Mayor Khan for their support, as well as Caterina’s Club that delivered a meal during their practice and Anaheim Public Utilities.
She thanked Council Member Diaz for the tour of Beach Blvd. with Senator Newman, thanked Yesenia Rojas for a Dia de los Reyes community event, and noted she was asked to swear in the executive board of the United Food and Commercial Workers and looked forward to their partnership with families in Anaheim. She highlighted Consent Calendar Item Nos. 17 and 18 and thanked the offices of Congressman Lou Correa and Assemblymember Avelino Valencia for helping bring funding to La Palma and Boysen Parks.
CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE:
City Manager Jim Vanderpool congratulated and thanked the Community Services Department for their annual Adopt-A-Family holiday event that provides gifts and funds to 75 families in conjunction with the Anaheim Community Foundation, D.E.V.O.T.E., and participating staff and residents.
City Clerk Theresa Bass provided an update on the City Council District 4 vacancy, noting that following direction received at the December 20, 2022 City Council meeting, the District 4 vacancy webpage was launched the next day including information about the vacancy, a downloadable City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
application, and a community input form. Additionally, the Public Information Office has been sharing information via social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and NextDoor for District 4, with such postings continuing until the January 18 application deadline. She noted that information regarding the vacancy has also been provided on Anaheim TV Channel 3 and a bilingual postcard was mailed on January 9 to over 21,000 District 4 addresses. Further, information was included in the Citywide newsletter to over 10,000 subscribers, a message is displayed on the Anaheim Convention Center’s marquee along Katella Avenue through January 18, posters and flyers are on display at the Ponderosa Family Resource Center. She reported partnering with the Community Services Department Neighborhood Services team to provide the flyers and information to various community groups and volunteers. She encouraged residents to visit www.Anaheim.net/councilvacancy for more information and noted that applications and community input are distributed to City Council upon receipt and posted on the website. She shared that the deadline for submitting applications and input is January 18 to allow for inclusion in the agenda packet for the January 24, 2023 City Council meeting, noting that City Council reserved January 31, 2023 for a special meeting if additional time is needed.
At 6:41 P.M., Mayor Aitken recessed the City Council, Anaheim Public Financing Authority, Anaheim Housing and Public Improvements Authority, and Anaheim Housing Authority, reconvening the City Council at 6:45 P.M.
CONSENT CALENDAR: At 6:45 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered with Council Member Meeks pulling Item No. 12 and Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava pulling Item Nos. 17 and 18 for separate discussion and consideration.
MOTION: Council Member Faessel moved to waive reading of all ordinances and resolutions and adopt the balance of the consent calendar as presented, in accordance with reports, certifications, and recommendations furnished each City Council Member, seconded by Council Member Meeks.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
10. Receive and file minutes of the Library Board meeting of October 10, 2022 and the Public Utilities Board meeting of November 16, 2022.
11. Approve recognitions recognizing Orange County Sanitation District General Manager Jim Herberg as he retires after 30 years of service to the County and January 2023 as National Mentoring Month.
13. Accept the bid of CDCE, Inc., in the amount of $273,513 plus applicable tax, for the purchase of Panasonic Toughbook laptops, related hardware, and multiyear protection plans to replace existing ruggedized laptops and hardware for the Anaheim Public Utilities Department, in accordance with Bid #9630.
14. Accept the bid from Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., in the amount of $98,426 plus applicable taxes and a 20% contingency, to provide as-needed liquid oxygen for a one year period with up to four one-year optional renewals; and authorize the Purchasing Agent to exercise the renewal options in accordance with Bid #9640.
15. Waive Council Policy 4.1 and approve an agreement with Kim Turner, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $72,000, for leadership training services; and authorize the Chief of Police, or designee, to administer the agreement on and execute any amendments under the terms and conditions of the agreement.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
16. Waive Council Policy 4.1 and approve an agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, in the amount of $7,500 per month with a total amount not to exceed $270,000, for supplemental state advocacy services for a one year term with two one-year optional renewals; and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer the agreement.
19. RESOLUTION NO. ____2023-003 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Director of Public Works or designee to submit one improvement project grant application to the Orange County Transportation Authority for funding under Project O - the Regional Capacity Program under Measure M2 on behalf of the City of Anaheim, and if awarded, authorize the acceptance of such grant on behalf of the City and amend the budget for the fiscal year accordingly (Lincoln Avenue Street Widening Project from East Street to Evergreen Street; requested grant funds in the amount of $6,910,000 for construction costs).
20. ORDINANCE NO. 6550 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Sections 2.12.020, 2.12.025 and 2.12.030 of Chapter 2.12 (Transient Occupancy Tax) of Title 2 (Taxes) of the Anaheim Municipal Code to modify the special package provisions, clarify remittance requirements for bookings facilitated by online travel companies, and specify that future tax increases must be approved by the voters (introduced at the City Council meeting of December 20, 2022, Item No. 30).
21. Approve minutes of the City Council meeting of August 9, 2022.
BUSINESS CALENDAR:
12. Approve the submission of the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program grant application and attachments to the California Interagency Council on Homelessness; authorize the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to modify the application and attachments as needed, provided that such modifications do not materially change the purpose or scope of the submission; increase the Housing and Community Development Department’s Fiscal Year 2022/23 revenue and expenditures budget to be commensurate with the grant award, if awarded; and authorize the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to accept the grant, execute required grant documents, and take the necessary actions to implement grant activities.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Meeks expressed her support of the item. She added the City Council is focused on the homeless issue. She reported there is a scheduled Workshop on homelessness at the next City Council meeting to provide better understanding on how the City is combatting the issue fiscally and logistically while also receiving public input on the matter.
Council Member Leon stated he also would have pulled the item and requested a brief staff report.
Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development Sandra Lozeau reported Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) funding grew from the Mayor’s Coalition among the 13 largest cities in the State requesting State funding. She added it evolved from the Homeless Emergency Aid Program (HEAP) with the transition happening between 2018 and 2020.
Ms. Lozeau reported on how the City has allocated its HEAP and HHAP funds since the inception of the two programs. She added the $5 million in HHAP funds to be approved in this item would be directed towards the Community Care Response Team (CCRT), Love Anaheim Work Program, Senior Safety Net, a Community Collaborative Court pilot, and conversions of the Tampico and Studio 6 Motels. She added the City’s share of HHAP funds are now split three ways between City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Anaheim and the Cities of Santa Ana and Irvine whereas it was previously just split two ways between Anaheim and Santa Ana.
Housing and Community Development Director Grace Stepter added the City is attempting to invest in a continuous system of care through measures such as the CCRT which the HHAP funds. She added it was a surprise to staff having to now also split the HHAP funding with the City of Irvine because Irvine’s inclusion is based on its population and not its homeless numbers.
Council Member Leon echoed Council Member Meek’s sentiments on the importance of the homeless issue. He commended the work of staff on the matter.
Council Member Diaz thanked staff. He added this issue requires investment in many phases to keep homeless residents from returning to the streets.
In response to Council Member Diaz’s inquiry, Ms. Lozeau clarified the City’s unreceived State funds from the current phase are allocated. She clarified the City received $2 million upfront to help with administrative work on the City’s Homeless Action Plan. She added the City is awaiting the remaining $8.2 million balance.
Council Member Diaz moved to approve the item.
Mayor Aitken called for comments from Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava on Item Nos. 17-18 so they can be voted on together.
17. RESOLUTION NO. ___2023-001____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM ratifying and approving the actions of the Anaheim Director of Community Services, or designee, in submitting a grant application on behalf of the City of Anaheim to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Economic Development Initiative for the La Palma Park Soccer Fields Project and, authorizing the acceptance of such grant on behalf of the City; and, determine that these actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guideline Section 15306 (grant funds in the amount of $2,000,000).
DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava stated she pulled Item No. 17 to highlight how Congressman Correa brought $30 million to Orange County. She noted La Palma Park, located in her district, needs funding. She lauded the role of sports in elevating the well-being of children. She expressed her gratitude to Congressman Correa for the federal funding, noting he is also responsible for $2 million in upgrades for Anaheim High School’s Cook Auditorium, $1 million for the Anaheim Community Foundation, and several County-based programs which benefit Anaheim. She added Congressman Correa is a former Anaheim resident and a graduate of Anaheim High School.
Director of Community Services Sjany Larson-Cash stated La Palma Park is one of the City’s largest and oldest parks with most of the recreational amenities located on the west side of the park. She stated the infrastructure is aging and new amenities are needed. She expressed her gratitude for the $2 million secured by Congressman Correa to help activate the west side of La Palma Park. She reported the City will be installing three natural grass soccer fields to allocate to youth organizations.
She added there will be other revitalization projects to come for La Palma Park.
Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava stated this project will help with the La Palma Park area, noting it struggles with homelessness. She added the family-focused project will help with crime reduction and other quality of life issues in her district.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
18. RESOLUTION NO. __2023-002____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Director of Community Services or designee to submit an application to the State Department of Parks and Recreation for Specified Grant Funds from the Budget Act of 2022/23 for the revitalization of Boysen Park and if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such funding on behalf of the City and amending the budget accordingly; and, determine that these actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guideline Section 15306 (grant funds in the amount of $15,000,000).
Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava thanked Assemblymember Valencia for the $15 million in State funding for the rehabilitation of Boysen Park. She noted the park serves a low-income population.
Ms. Larson-Cash reported Boysen Park is a 24-acre park opened in 1959 and expanded in the early 1990s. She stated the park needs a major renovation due to its age and heavy use. She reported this funding was originally requested by former Mayor Tom Daly. She noted staff has conducted two community meetings to develop a plan for desired improvements which include sports field upgrades, new lighting, fitness equipment, updated walking paths, and a new restroom building. She added staff is beginning to work on design options and have another community meeting scheduled in a few weeks. She commended Parks Manager JJ Jimenez for how interactive the community meetings have been.
Council Member Faessel reported he spent a lot of time in his childhood at La Palma Park while visiting his aunt. He requested staff make every effort possible to preserve the trees in the western half of La Palma Park, noting their age and historical significance. He noted this matter has been previously discussed with Ms. Larson-Cash.
Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava stated it is helpful to receive State and federal funding for park projects because parks do not generate revenue so it can be harder to find partners.
Mayor Aitken stated, on the advice of the City Attorney, the items should be voted on individually.
MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to approve Item No. 12 approving the submission of the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program grant application and attachments to the California Interagency Council on Homelessness; authorizing the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to modify the application and attachments as needed, provided that such modifications do not materially change the purpose or scope of the submission; increase the Housing and Community Development Department’s Fiscal Year 2022/23 revenue and expenditures budget to be commensurate with the grant award, if awarded; and authorizing the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to accept the grant, execute required grant documents, and take the necessary actions to implement grant activities, seconded by Council Member Diaz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava moved to approve Item No. 17 approving RESOLUTION NO. ___2023-001____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM ratifying and approving the actions of the Anaheim Director of Community Services, or designee, in submitting a grant application on behalf of the City of Anaheim to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Economic Development Initiative for the La Palma Park Soccer Fields Project and, authorizing the acceptance of such grant on behalf of the City; and, determine that these actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guideline Section 15306, seconded by Council Member Faessel. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
MOTION: Council Member Leon moved to approve Item No. 18 approving RESOLUTION NO. __2023-002____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Director of Community Services or designee to submit an application to the State Department of Parks and Recreation for Specified Grant Funds from the Budget Act of 2022/23 for the revitalization of Boysen Park and if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such funding on behalf of the City and amending the budget accordingly; and, determine that these actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, seconded by Council Member Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
22. RESOLUTION NO. __2023-004_____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the dates and times for regular meetings of the Anaheim City Council for the 2023 calendar year and rescinding Resolution No. 2022-123 [rescheduling the meeting of March 21 to March 28, 2023].
MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. __2023-004_____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the dates and times for regular meetings of the Anaheim City Council for the 2023 calendar year and rescinding Resolution No. 2022-123 [rescheduling the meeting of March 21 to March 28, 2023], seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
23. Consider (re)appointments to certain city Boards and Commission to serve terms ending December 31, 2026; consider appointments to the Sister City Commission to serve terms consistent with the nominating official, ending December 31, 2024 or December 31, 2026; and consider appointment to an unscheduled vacancy on the Community Services Board to serve a term ending December 31, 2024, consider appointments to unscheduled vacancies on the Youth Commission to serve terms ending August 31, 2023, and consider appointment to a schedule vacancy on the Housing and Community Development Commission to serve a term ending December 31, 2024.
Council Member Leon stated he will not be making any appointments at this meeting but is working with the City Clerk’s office to have appointments placed on a future meeting.
Budget, Investment and Technology Commission:
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 3 appointment continued to a later date.
District 6 appointment: Christopher Nguyen (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Peter Duncan (term ending December 31, 2026) In response to Mayor Aitken’s inquiry, Ms. Bass clarified the voting should be conducted for each Commission and not collectively for all Commissions. She added a second is not required for the nomination, simply the vote of the City Council.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
NOMINATION: Council Member Meeks nominated Christopher Nguyen and Mayor Aitken nominated Peter Duncan. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
Community Services Board:
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 3 appointment continued to a later date.
District 6 appointment: Laura Banker Jelensky (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Linda Barnett (term ending December 31, 2026) In response to Council Member Diaz’s inquiry, Ms. Bass clarified they can conduct one vote for the commission if there is only one nominee for each vacancy. She added there will be a separate vote for the District 5 position on the Community Services Board as it is an unscheduled vacancy.
NOMINATION: Council Member Meeks nominated Laura Banker Jelensky and Mayor Aitken nominated Linda Barnett. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
Unscheduled vacancy:
District 5 appointment: Usha Shah (term ending December 31, 2024) NOMINATION: Council Member Faessel nominated Usha Shah. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nomination approved.
Cultural and Heritage Commission:
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 3 appointment continued to a later date.
District 6 appointment: Karen Uyematsu (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Erika (Miller) Nguyen (term ending December 31, 2026) NOMINATION: Council Member Meeks nominated Karen Uyematsu and Mayor Aitken nominated Erika (Miller) Nguyen. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Housing and Community Development Commission:
District 1 appointment: Susan Anderson (term ending December 31, 2024) District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: Cassandra Perez (term ending December 31, 2026) District 6 appointment: Dara Maleki (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Lisa Dulyea (term ending December 31, 2026) At-Large appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) No candidates were nominated for the vacant tenant seat. The at-large nomination was continued to a later date.
NOMINATION: Council Member Diaz nominated Susan Anderson, Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava nominated Cassandra Perez, Council Member Meeks nominated Dara Maleki, and Mayor Aitken nominated Lisa Dulyea. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
Parks and Recreation Commission:
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: Carlotta Rhea Clark (term ending December 31, 2026) District 6 appointment: James Cook (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Fred Sigala, Jr. (term ending December 31, 2026) NOMINATION: Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava nominated Carlotta Rhea Clark, Council Member Meeks nominated James Cook, and Mayor Aitken nominated Fred Sigala, Jr. AYES – 5 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0; ABSTAIN – 1 (Council Member Diaz). Nominations approved.
Planning Commission:
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 3 appointment continued to a later date.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
District 6 appointment: Amelia Castro (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Grant Henninger (term ending December 31, 2026) NOMINATION: Council Member Meeks nominated Amelia Castro and Mayor Aitken nominated Grant Henninger. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
Public Utilities Board:
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: Albert McMenamin (term ending December 31, 2026) District 6 appointment: John Seymour (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Tanya Bilezikjian (term ending December 31, 2026) NOMINATION: Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava nominated Albert McMenamin, Council Member Meeks nominated John Seymour, and Mayor Aitken nominated Tanya Bilezikjian. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
Senior Citizen Commission:
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 3 appointment continued to a later date.
District 6 appointment: Steve Brio (term ending December 31, 2026) DISCUSSION: Council Member Meeks nominated Steve Brio. She added Mr. Brio is not on the list for this Commission, having applied for a different Commission, but reported speaking to Mr. Brio, and he expressed an interest in this appointment.
Mayoral appointment: Denise Barnes (term ending December 31, 2026) NOMINATION: Council Member Meeks nominated Steve Brio and Mayor Aitken nominated Denise Barnes. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
Sister City Commission:
District 1 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2024) City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
District 1 appointment continued to a later date.
District 2 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 3 appointment: (term ending December 31, 2026) District 3 appointment continued to a later date.
District 5 appointment: Anthony Al-Jamie (term ending December 31, 2024) DISCUSSION: Council Member Faessel nominated Anthony Al-Jamie. He noted he is breaking from his regular policy of only nominating from within District 5 but added Mr. Al-Jamie is the President of both the Sister Cities International’s Southern California Chapter and the Japan-United States Sister City Association. He noted the Commission is being restructured and stated Mr. Al-Jamie will add a great deal to the organization.
Mayor Aitken stated Mr. Al-Jamie sounds more than qualified.
District 6 appointment: Juan Carlos Mendez (term ending December 31, 2026) Mayoral appointment: Simin Hevdari (term ending December 31, 2026) NOMINATION: Council Member Faessel nominated Anthony Al-Jaime, Council Member Meeks nominated Juan Carlos Mendez, and Mayor Aitken nominated Simin Hevdari. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
Youth Commission:
DISCUSSION: Mayor Aitken noted several of these appointments are unscheduled.
District 1 appointment: Phoebe He (term ending August 31, 2023) District 1 appointment: Daniel Sims (term ending August 31, 2023) District 2 appointment: (term ending August 31, 2023) District 2 appointment continued to a later date.
District 6 appointment: (term ending August 31, 2023) District 6 appointment: (term ending August 31, 2023) Council Member Meeks stated she would have nominations at a later date as she is continuing attempts to contact Canyon High School’s student body leadership to assess potential interest.
Mayoral appointment: (term ending August 31, 2023) Mayoral appointment: (term ending August 31, 2023) City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Mayoral appointments continued to a later date.
NOMINATION: Council Member Diaz nominated Phoebe He and Daniels Sims. AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Nominations approved.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
24. CEQA EXEMPTION, SECTION 15061(b)(3)
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION NO. 2022-00074
PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide
REQUEST: A City-initiated General Plan Amendment to update the General Plan Safety Element including adoption of a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan therein pursuant to Government Code Section 65302.6.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The City Council will consider whether the proposed action is exempt from the requirements to prepare additional environmental documentation per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15061(b)(3).
ACTION TAKEN BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION: Recommended City Council approval (Resolution No. PC2022-094). VOTE: 6-0 (Chairperson Vadodaria and Commissioners Meeks, Mouawad, Perez, White and Walker; Commissioner Kring was absent) (Planning Commission meeting of December 5, 2022)
RESOLUTION NO. __2023-005____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting the proposed General Plan Amendment (DEV2022-00074), an update of the Safety Element including adoption of a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan therein pursuant to Government Code Section 65302.6 [includes determination that the adoption of the updated General Plan Safety Element is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines].
Planning and Building Director Ted White stated the item is a City-initiated request to adopt an updated General Plan Safety Element. He reported the Safety Element is a required element of the General Plan informed by the City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to evaluate the risk of natural hazards and demonstrate how the City will lower its exposure risk to potential disasters.
Mr. White reported State law requires the Safety Element to be updated along with the new Housing Element to address items such as flooding, wildfire hazards and emergency evacuation routes. He stated the General Plan is coming in advance of the other General Plan element updates to help ensure the City is eligible for potential disaster funding.
Mr. White reported the City last updated its Safety Element in 2004. He stated, in conjunction with AF&R, staff began updating the Safety Element in August 2021 in tandem with the LHMP. He reported the Council approved the LHMP in May 2022. He stated a Draft Safety Element has since undergone public review and a Planning Commission Workshop. He added it was approved by the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection in September 2022 and the Planning Commission recommended City Council approval in December 2022.
Mr. White stated the Draft Safety Element includes revised goals to meet community safety needs, adhering to new regulatory requirements. He added it also includes new hazard mapping. He recommended the City Council approve the Draft Safety Element.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Mayor Aitken opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, Mayor Aitken closed the public hearing.
MOTION: Council Member Faessel moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2023-005 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting the proposed General Plan Amendment (DEV2022-00074), an update of the Safety Element including adoption of a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan therein pursuant to Government Code Section 65302.6, seconded by Council Member Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
25. CEQA - ADDENDUM TO PREVIOUSLY CERTIFIED EIR-330 AND SEIR-346 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION NO. 2021-00193
PROJECT LOCATION: Proposed additions and changes to roadway classifications include a portion of Yorba Linda Boulevard from the eastbound SR-91 interchange to La Palma Avenue, Savi Ranch Parkway, Crystal Drive, Pullman Street, and Old Canal Road. Proposed bikeway additions are located: 1) along Yorba Linda Boulevard between Old Canal Road and La Palma Avenue; and 2) along La Palma Avenue between the intersection of Yorba Linda Boulevard and La Palma Avenue to the easterly City limits.
REQUEST: A City-initiated General Plan Amendment for minor amendments to the General Plan Circulation Element including the Bicycle Master Plan to address inconsistencies with the existing right-of-way conditions and add planned bike facilities in the area of Yorba Linda Boulevard / La Palma Avenue at the border of the City of Anaheim and the City of Yorba Linda.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The City Council will consider if an Addendum to the previously certified Environmental Impact Report No. 330 and Supplemental Environmental Impact Report No. 346, is the appropriate environmental documentation for this request under the California Environmental Quality Act.
ACTION TAKEN BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION: Recommended City Council approval (Resolution No. PC2022-095). VOTE: 6-0 (Chairperson Vadodaria and Commissioners Meeks, Mouawad, Perez, White and Walker voted yes; Commissioner Kring was absent) (Planning Commission meeting of December 5, 2022)
RESOLUTION NO. __2023-006_____ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the General Plan of the City of Anaheim (General Plan Amendment) (DEV2021-00193) (Amendments to the Circulation Element including Bicycle Master Plan pertaining to the Yorba Linda Boulevard Widening Project) [includes determination that Addendum No. 4 to Environmental Impact Report No. 330 and Supplemental Environmental Impact Report No. 346 is the appropriate environmental documentation for the proposed General Plan Amendment DEV2021-00193].
Mr. White reported this is a City-initiated request to amend the Circulation Element of the General Plan, including the Bicycle Master Plan, to facilitate the Yorba Linda Blvd. widening project. He stated the project is a joint effort between Anaheim and the City of Yorba Linda to improve traffic, bicycle, and other public infrastructure along Yorba Linda Blvd., Weir Canyon Road, and Santa Ana Canyon Road. He reported the project was selected by the Anaheim Transportation Authority in 2020 to receive grant funds. He added to proceed with the project and maintain the grant funding amendments to the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Master Plan of Arterial Highways (MPAH), Anaheim General Plan and City of Yorba Linda General Plan are required.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Mr. White reported OCTA conditionally approved the MPAH amendments in 2021, giving the two cities three years to process the corresponding General Plan amendments. He stated changes include reclassifying portions of Yorba Linda Blvd. from primary arterial to major arterial, Savi Ranch Parkway will be added as a primary arterial, while Crystal Drive, Pullman St., and Old Canal Road will be added as collector streets. He added all roadways are already designed and operating under their new designations.
Mr. White stated the proposed plan adds a Class 1 bike path along the south side of La Palma Ave. and the east side of Yorba Linda Blvd., facilitating connections to the Savi Ranch development in the City of Yorba Linda and the Santa Ana River Trail. He recommended approval of the Draft Safety Plan.
DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Diaz’s inquiry, Public Works Department Principal Transportation Planner Joseph Alcock stated a Class 1 bike path is a separated bike path behind the curb and off of the roadway. He added it is similar to a recreational path.
In response to Council Member Diaz’s inquiry, Mr. White clarified a Class 1 bike path is fully separated and the safest level of bike path.
Mayor Aitken opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, Mayor Aitken closed the public hearing.
MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2023-006 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the General Plan of the City of Anaheim (General Plan Amendment) (DEV2021-00193) (Amendments to the Circulation Element including Bicycle Master Plan pertaining to the Yorba Linda Boulevard Widening Project), seconded by Council Member Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Rubalcava, Diaz, Leon, Faessel, and Meeks); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS (non-agenda items): None
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS:
Council Member Faessel reported his attendance at the Mayor’s Open House on December 22 and how good it was to see so many City employees there. He reported that his aides attended a holiday event at Edison Park on that same day. He reported his attendance last week at the City Manager’s Office Rosca de Reyes event, the ABC Southern California Annual Craft Championship, and a Christmas gift giveaway event in the Almont neighborhood. He announced the upcoming Black History Parade on February 4.
Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava congratulated Mayor Aitken for being named one of the 125 Most Influential People in Orange County by the Orange County Register. She thanked Public Utilities General Manager Dukku Lee and his team for their assistance providing resources to a resident in need of assistance with their utility bill.
COUNCIL AGENDA SETTING:
Council Member Leon reported that the Charter Review item would likely come forward at the first February meeting. He also asked to agendize in February or March a discussion or workshop regarding Angel Stadium.
City Council Minutes of January 10, 2023
Council Member Faessel requested an all-Council certificate on January 24 recognizing Kay Carpenter for her nomination as the Cypress College Foundation’s Citizen of the Year for Anaheim.
City Manager Jim Vanderpool also requested a recognition for Liz Dunster as the Cypress College Foundation’s Person of the Year.
Mayor Pro Tem Rubalcava requested future consideration of exploring a Chicano Heritage Mural Preservation Program/Policy, noting she would follow up with Mayor Aitken.
ADJOURNMENT:
At 7:36 P.M., Mayor Aitken adjourned the City Council in memory of Jo An Burdick Gottlieb.
Respectfully submitted,
Theresa Bass, CMC
City Clerk