ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF AUGUST 26, 2025
The regular meeting of August 26, 2025 was called to order at 3:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber of Anaheim City Hall, located at 200 South Anaheim Boulevard. The meeting notice, agenda, and related material were duly posted on August 21, 2025.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Pro Tem Natalie Meeks and Council Members Ryan Balius, Carlos A. Leon, Norma Campos Kurtz, and Kristen M. Maahs.
Council Member Natalie Rubalcava joined during Closed Session.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Mayor Ashleigh E. Aitken
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Jim Vanderpool, City Attorney Robert Fabela, and City Clerk Theresa Bass
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS: None
CLOSED SESSION: At 3:01 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Meeks recessed to closed session for consideration of the following:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
(Subdivision (d)(1) of Section 54956.9 of the California Government Code) Name of Case: National Prescription Opiate Litigation, USDC Case No. 1:17-MD-02804 (S.D. Ohio)
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of the California Government Code Section 54956.9: One potential case
3. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
(Section 54957 (b) (1) of the California Government Code) Position: City Manager
[continued from Council meeting of August 12, 2025, Closed Session Item No. 2]
4. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR
(Subdivision (a) of Section 54957.6 of the California Government Code) Agency Designated Representative: Linda Andal, Human Resources Director Position: City Manager
[continued from Council meeting of August 12, 2025, Closed Session Item No. 3]
5. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
(Subdivision (a) of Section 54957.6 of the California Government Code) Agency Designated Representative: Linda Andal, Human Resources Director Name of Employee Organizations: Anaheim Municipal Employees Association - General, Clerical, and Part-Time Units
At 5:10 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Meeks reconvened the Anaheim City Council.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Pro Tem Natalie Meeks and Council Members Ryan Balius, Carlos A. Leon, Natalie Rubalcava, Norma Campos Kurtz, and Kristen M. Maahs
MEMBERS ABSENT: Mayor Ashleigh E. Aitken
INVOCATION: Reverend Jessica Strysko, Anaheim United Methodist Church Prior to the flag salute, Council Member Maahs requested that the public reflect on the men and women who have served the country and who continue to serve.
FLAG SALUTE: Council Member Kristen M. Maahs
PRESENTATIONS: Recognizing Anaheim Retirees with 20 plus years of service Mayor Pro Tem Meeks highlighted the hard work and dedication of the City’s employees. She recognized Lieutenant Richard La Rochelle, who served the City for 30 years, and Sarah Feliciano, who dedicated 35 years to the City. She congratulated them on their retirement and thanked them for their unwavering commitment to the City and residents.
Lieutenant La Rochelle thanked his fiancée, their children, and his family in attendance. He shared that it was a long and amazing career with the City. He noted that he started with the City at 19 as a Traffic Controller and recently retired. He thanked everyone and looked forward to his retirement.
Recognizing Richard Stein on his appointment to the California Arts Council by Governor Gavin Newsom
Mayor Pro Tem Meeks recognized Richard Stein’s appointment to the California Arts Council by Governor Gavin Newsom. She shared that the appointment recognizes Mr. Stein’s decades of leadership and dedication to the arts. She noted that he would be the first Orange County member since 2015. She highlighted his dedication to championing the role of the arts in enriching lives and strengthening communities while expanding access to culture and creativity. She congratulated Mr.
Stein on his appointment.
Mr. Stein shared his retirement as the CEO of Arts Orange County and highlighted the transition to assist Statewide. He highlighted the many artists and arts organizations he’s worked with in the City, including serving as the Interim Director at the Muzeo.
Recognizing August 2025, as Chicano Heritage Month
Council Member Rubalcava shared the importance of Chicano Heritage Month to her as a fourth- generation Mexican American Chicana. She reported that since 2023, the City has formally recognized Chicano Heritage Month, honoring the contributions of the Mexican American community.
She noted that the culture of Anaheim has been shaped by art, literature, engagement, and creativity of Chicano residents. She shared that the Naranjeros Car Club is a Chicano low-rider car club rooted in culture, tradition, and community. She added that the car club has grown into a family-oriented club dedicated to preserving the beauty of low-rider culture while uplifting the community. She shared that they give back through annual car shows, yearly school supply drives, and participate in the Anaheim Halloween parade. She added that she has worked with the club to promote wellness and mental health, break cultural stigmas, and support strong well-being for the community.
Tommy Ruiz, Treasurer of the Naranjeros Car Club, thanked Council Member Rubalcava for including them in the recognition and expressed their support for her work in the City. He added that City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
the club supports Council Member Leon and looks forward to working with Council Members Kurtz and Maahs. He shared that the low-riding culture is more than cars and promotes family, artistic expression, and community, where they see cars as mobile works of art that showcase resilience, pride, and identity. He shared that the club is tied to the community and, through the Chicano culture, serves the City of Anaheim. He thanked Congressman Lou Correa for reintroducing the recognition of Chicano Heritage Month to the state.
ACCEPTANCE OF OTHER RECOGNITIONS (To be presented at a later date):
Recognizing September 2025, as National Preparedness Month Fire Chief Patrick Russell accepted the recognition. He shared that the Fire and Rescue Department is always striving to be prepared, respond, and remain vigilant. He announced that the department and City staff will be prepared to serve Anaheim residents.
Recognizing September 2025, as National Library Card Sign‐Up Month Recognizing September 2025, as World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS (all agenda items): Prior to receipt of public comments, City Clerk Theresa Bass provided an outline of procedures for public comments, notice of translation services, and a brief decorum.
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of seven (7) public comments were received electronically prior to 1:00 p.m. related to City Council agenda items and matters within the jurisdiction of the Anaheim City Council. [A final total of eight (8) public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official record]. – See Appendix.
Paul Hyek commented on reports that the County of Orange would be subletting the busing for shelters. He suggested that the shelters should operate on a walk-in, walk-out basis.
Jeanine Robbins shared that despite the corruption investigation, there is still a lack of transparency in the City. She reported that Mayor Aitken’s trips to Qatar and Mito, Japan, were omitted from the public calendar and potential conflicts of interest involving a Council Aide. She urged the City to investigate the issues and take accountability.
Ruben Soto spoke of his health struggles. He thanked the White House for the message he received and the encouragement to seek assistance.
Mike Robbins expressed concern over the number of fire stations in the City. He raised issues about campaign support from corporations in exchange for project approvals. He expressed concern about infrastructure costs, pollution, housing shortages, and the lack of public trust.
Pablo Castillo expressed concern about criminal activity in front of the Lemon Tree Hotel, which is impacting residents' safety and quality of life. He shared that the community has been working with the Police Department and created a Community Watch Program. He provided examples of suspicious activity in the area. He requested assistance from the City Council for increased Code Enforcement activity, enhanced Police presence, and legal action from the City Attorney. He thanked the Police Department for their efforts and reiterated his request for City leadership to take action.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
Vern Nelson commented on recent Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) raids in the community. He thanked Council Members Leon and Maahs for showing up in the community and the increased transparency on the Anaheim Contigo page. He urged the City Council to urge the Police Department to verify agents’ identities and warrants and document arrests and the identities of those detained. He requested an update on an ordinance requested by Council Member Rubalcava to have the City enforce the State’s tenant protection laws. He called for rent control in the City and an entertainment tax.
Steven Acevedo thanked Council Members Leon and Maahs for visiting the Home Depot where an ICE raid occurred. He commented on the Anaheim Contigo website and requested an expansion of the legal system to protect immigrants. He requested Council Member Kurtz’s assistance for the Ponderosa community regarding treatment by the Police Department.
Matthew Duncan reiterated his concerns about the City’s use of rodenticides. He shared that he would be waiting on the results of an investigation into the City’s use of rodenticides. He added that he is available to answer any questions on environmental issues.
Fernanda commented on federal immigration enforcement efforts and the recent detainment of a previous public commenter who shared his story. She requested that the City expand the Anaheim Contigo fund and dedicate resources for ground support and legal resources. She shared a resident’s experience seeking assistance from Anaheim Contigo and the difficulties she experienced. She demanded that the City expand the Contigo program and create an Anaheim Immigrant and Worker Legal Defense Fund to ensure rapid legal support and hold Know Your Rights Clinics.
Bryan Kaye requested that the City Council meet with and listen to constituents to address their concerns.
Penelope L. shared that community members have gathered at areas targeted by ICE agents to support laborers with food and water. She shared the story of an individual who spoke at a recent City Council meeting and was subsequently detained and deported. She requested that the City expand the Anaheim Contigo fund and dedicate additional resources for ground support, that the City Council join the community, and establish an Anaheim Immigrant Workers Legal Defense Fund to ensure rapid legal support and Know Your Rights clinics.
Jon Jon questioned the development of luxury apartment buildings and the lack of rent control. He expressed concern about water contamination due to fireworks. He called for the Police Department to protect residents and ensure constituents know their rights. He suggested expanding the Anaheim Contigo fund to assist more residents. He expressed his appreciation for Council Member Leon joining the community, but requested that the City Council do more for the public.
Marc Herbert shared that there are funds available for legal resources in the Anaheim Transportation Improvement District (ATID). He mentioned that he submitted a public comment at the ATID Advisory Board meeting and only received one response. He shared comments from the previous City Council meeting and encouraged the City Council to pay attention to those addressing the Council.
Kenneth Batiste questioned whether the Council is fully assisting Anaheim residents regarding immigration enforcement measures. He commented on the burden of increased rental costs on families.
Antonio Carrillo thanked the City Council and expressed his gratitude for the assistance provided to the community.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
Andrew Morena reported issues with submitting an emergency utility voucher. He explained that he risks losing additional program services if his income exceeds the standard limit. He requested assistance with his utilities.
Mayor Pro Tem Meeks referred Mr. Morena to Public Utilities General Manager Dukku Lee.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS:
Council Member Maahs highlighted and shared photographs of events she attended including Disneyland’s 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim, celebrating events like Disney Toddler Storytime at the Sunkist Branch Library and the opening game of Katella High School's football season. She congratulated Katella High School on their win, 21 to 7, and thanked Disney cast members for coordinating the events, as well as City staff for their efforts in making the events successful. Council Member Maahs visited the Orange County Family Justice Center and toured their center in Anaheim.
The Center serves as a vital resource for individuals experiencing domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, and elder abuse. The center offers a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where survivors can access a range of services, including legal assistance, court support, and advocacy. She stated that it is crucial for the community to know that help is available for individuals and families in crisis. The Orange County Family Justice Center can be reached at (714) 765-1645.
Council Member Maahs stated she attended the Indian Independence Day celebration in Anaheim, which also welcomed Council Members from the cities of La Palma and Artesia. The event featured performances, food, and traditions. She thanked District 5 resident Mahesh for serving on the volunteer committee and Community Services staff for their support. The celebration was a reminder of Anaheim's commitment to welcoming and celebrating diverse cultures. On Friday, August 15, District 5 families gathered for a Back-to-School Giveaway organized by a community leader, Fatima Zaragoza. Fatima worked hard to secure donations and coordinate the event so that local students had the supplies they needed to start the school year strong. Council Member Maahs thanked her team for sharing City resources with families and recognized Fatima for her efforts in supporting the community. Council Member Maahs thanked Council Member Rubalcava for connecting her with Fatima so she could be a part of the effort. She stated this was a great example of when everyone works together to lift neighborhoods and help families to thrive in Anaheim. Council Member Maahs requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of Armando Diego Orizaba, who passed away on August 16 at the age of 51. Armando was a proud alumnus of Katella High School and Chapman University, and a Hall of Fame Inductee for his soccer career. He served his community with passion as a teacher and a club soccer coach. His warmth, whether through a loud laugh, a big hug, or a “te quiero mucho,” lit up every room and made everyone feel seen and loved. Council Member Maahs stated that her thoughts are with his wife, Yvette, daughter Tatiana, stepdaughters Jasmine, Sasha, and Destinee, and his mother Ortencia.
Council Member Kurtz invited seniors across the City to a meeting on Wednesday, September 10, at 1:00 p.m. at the Anaheim Central Library to discuss the need for a senior center. The meeting will feature guests who have toured senior centers in other cities to share their experiences. More information will be sent out by the website and flyers will be distributed to senior centers with active programs. Council Member Kurtz highlighted Disneyland’s 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim, specifically in District 4. Disney visited Ponderosa Elementary School. The kids were overjoyed when they were told they were going to receive books and when Mickey Mouse came out to visit with them. Council Member Kurtz noted that most of the kids at Ponderosa Elementary School do not get the opportunity to visit Disneyland and having a Disney character visit them is something they will always remember.
The school library also received a $15,000 donation from Disneyland. Later that day, Disneyland crew members visited the Ponderosa Community Center, and they gave out over 800 baskets to kids.
Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Miguel from Coco were there and brought so much joy to the families in the neighborhood.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
Council Member Rubalcava highlighted and shared photographs of events she attended including Disneyland’s 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim, recognizing choir students at Anaheim High School who were recently invited to New York City to perform at Carnegie Hall. She noted that at the last Council meeting a couple of parents spoke during public comments and asked the City for support to help get the students to New York. Disney provided $50,000 to help get the students to Carnegie Hall, which is an opportunity of a lifetime. Council Member Rubalcava stated she is a proud graduate of Anaheim High School, and she gave a shout out to Ms. Cisneros, who is the teacher who is leading the charge with the students. She congratulated the students and thanked Disney for their support and recognizing the choir chamber group. Council Member Rubalcava noted that August is Chicano Heritage Month, and she thanked Community Services for their efforts in the 2nd Annual Opening Reception for the Chicano Art Exhibition at the Downtown Anaheim Community Center. She recommended that everyone visit the exhibition. The exhibit features art by Anaheim residents and former residents who have had an impact on Chicano history in Anaheim including Franky Castillo, who graduated from Anaheim High School, Rich Romeros, as well as other artists. The exhibition runs through September 28 and is open until 8:00 p.m. Council Member Rubalcava participated in a peaceful demonstration recognizing democracy in Anaheim and across the country. She thanked the Orange County Labor Federation who assisted in ensuring the demonstration was peaceful and traffic was not disrupted as well as those who were there for the National Day of Action. Council Member Rubalcava requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of District 3 resident and Anaheim High School graduate Tony Banda, Class of 1995, who unfortunately passed away at the young age of 46 from a heart attack. He leaves behind his wife and five children, one of them who is suffering from a severe medical issue. She noted there is a GoFundMe setup to assist the family and she will share on her social media.
Council Member Leon requested that staff follow up with Mr. Castillo who spoke during public comments.
City Manager Vanderpool responded that a City representative from his office is looking into Mr. Castillo’s concerns and will follow up with him.
Council Member Leon thanked all the neighbors who attended the neighborhood meeting in the Greenleaf neighborhood to discuss their concerns. He also thanked the Disney team for holding events in District 2 for Disneyland’s 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim, including at Walt Disney Elementary School. He shared that it is one of a handful of schools named after Walt Disney. Council Member Leon noted that Walt Disney was at the dedication ceremony for the elementary school, and the lead custodian for the Anaheim Elementary School District was able to walk around and show the president of the Anaheim Resort photographs and historic artifacts that they have of Walt Disney at the school. Council Member Leon shared that he attended the Arab American Civic Council's Little Arabia celebration at Modjeska Park. He thanked the Community Services and Public Works teams for a successful event and noted he received positive feedback from residents and visitors. He also thanked the Arab American Civic Council for their work and efforts in organizing the community celebration. He stated that, as mentioned at the event, the importance of creating safe spaces for the community to be able to celebrate, come together, and to look towards the future in a positive way, especially during these times where there is so much fear and uncertainty in the community. Council Member Leon invited everyone to a webinar on September 4 for the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), Orange County Bikeways Connectivity Study, to find out how OCTA is working to support safe and connected bikeways across Orange County, including Anaheim. He shared that individuals will be able to learn about the goals of the study, see what is being planned, and of course, share feedback. Council Member Leon noted that individuals who are unable to attend the webinar can contact his office to provide feedback. Council Member Leon asked everyone to save the date for the 3rd Annual Active Older Adult Appreciation event, on Saturday, September 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at St. Justin Martyr Church in District 2. He noted there will be entertainment City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
and community partners providing resources including health screenings. Council Member Leon shared that he will be attending the KABOOM! build at Maxwell Park on September 4th because that is where he learned to ride his bike. He thanked his team, Angie Gomez, Maggie Moreno, and Kellie Tran, and all the volunteers for their efforts with the 3rd Annual Back-2-School Bash earlier in the month.
Council Member Balius thanked Disneyland for the 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim, including at the Brookhurst Community Center during a dance for seniors and other locations. He shared that there were approximately 200 individuals there who were very appreciative of getting lunch and of the singers that were there as well. Council Member Balius shared that as a former Parks and Recreation Commissioner, he has championed KABOOM! projects for many years. He noted that the KABOOM! playground build at Maxwell Park is scheduled for September 4, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. Council Member Balius encouraged everyone to participate by registering for the event on the City’s website. He noted there is also a prep day scheduled on September 2nd. Council Member Balius thanked the Anaheim Ducks Foundation for funding the KABOOM! playground at Maxwell Park and mentioned the possibility of Wild Wing and players attending the event. He noted that after the KABOOM! event, everyone is invited to attend the Orange County Bikeways Connectivity Study webinar at 6:00 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tem Meeks stated that assisting with the KABOOM! playground build is one of her favorite projects and unfortunately, she will be out of town and will miss the build at Maxwell Park. She stated that it is a great community event, and the community gets to shovel mulch or mix concrete next to Anaheim Ducks players. Mayor Pro Tem Meeks thanked the Disneyland Resort for their 70 Happiest Hours in Anaheim. They visited kids at Kaiser Hospital and by the look on their faces when Mickey and Minnie walked in their hospital rooms changed their experience for that day. Mayor Pro Tem Meeks stated that Disney also donated $100,000 towards the Veterans Cemetery, and expressed the Council’s support of the cemetery moving forward to have a final resting place for veterans. Mayor Pro Tem Meeks thanked Public Utilities, on behalf of a District 6 resident, who said staff worked diligently to find a water leak in his community that the Homeowners Association was unable to find.
Mayor Pro Tem Meeks noted that Public Utilities always ensures that water leaks get taken care of, whether they are private or public, because leaks can break down pavements and potentially get into the water table and cause landslides. Mayor Pro Tem Meeks announced that Girls in Government will be held on September 6, 2025. The program is available for junior high school and high school aged girls that may be interested in learning about careers in local government. More information is available on the City’s website.
CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE:
City Manager Vanderpool provided a general update on Angel Stadium of Anaheim and stated that the stadium is always a matter of public interest, and clarified that there are no long-term discussions taking place and none imminent. He reiterated that this is a general update and shared that in February and March, City staff and consultant Kosmont Companies held a series of briefings with Council Members and the Angels on the Surplus Land Act. The goal was to refresh everyone’s understanding of the Surplus Land Act and understand what it means for the stadium. The Angels, the City’s tenant of the stadium, were included as a courtesy. The briefings were a natural follow up to a general priority outlined in the City’s Strategic Plan to address the future of the stadium site. A clear takeaway from the briefings is that the City must first address the Surplus Land Act issue in the event of any consideration of a sale or a lease. Meanwhile, the City is in the second phase of the ongoing stadium assessment under the direct direction of the City Attorney's office, working with Convention, Sports & Entertainment and with the cooperation of the Angels Baseball. Engineering consultants are about a third of the way through testing concrete and metal columns throughout our stadium. The work is being done when the team is away and when there are no events. Testing is expected to continue into the fall. The final step in the assessment will be to hire an engineering firm to perform a City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
final assessment based on the testing taking place now, as well as the initial visual assessment done in 2023. A finalized assessment is expected in mid-2026.
City Manager Vanderpool shared that earlier this month, the Anaheim Convention Center played host to the 2025 Pokémon World Championships which brought more than 30,000 attendees each day for the three-day event. Anaheim saw more than 12,000 hotel room nights with the show. This is the third time the competition and fan fest has been in Anaheim, with this being the largest one. It was a lot of fun, great exposure for Anaheim, and good for the community as visitors spent on hotels and merchandise.
CONSENT CALENDAR: At 6:36 p.m., the Consent Calendar was considered with Council Member Leon pulling Item Nos. 3 and 13 for separate consideration.
MOTION: Council Member Leon moved to waive reading of the 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 Kurtz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Pro Tem Meeks and Council Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0; ABSENT – 1 (Mayor Aitken). Motion carried.
1. Approve recognitions recognizing Mama Cozza’s Italian Restaurant as the 2025 Small Business Administration District Family-Owned Business of the Year; El Pollo Fino as the 2025 Small Business Administration District Young Entrepreneur of the Year; Samuel Weinraub for earning the highest level of achievement in his age category at the USATF National Junior Olympics Championship; and Anaheim High School Chamber Choir singers for their excellent performance at a music festival in San Diego which earned them an invitation to the prestigious Festival of Gold in New York City.
2. Receive and file, with the possibility of discussion, the list of Professional Services Agreements authorized by the City Manager and the list of Visit Anaheim Subcontractor Agreements approved by the Executive Director of Convention, Sports, and Entertainment in July 2025.
4. Approve the Regional Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention Program Round 6 grant application, in substantial form, and related documents, for submission to the State of California Housing and Community Development Department; authorize the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to modify the application and related documents as needed, provided that any such modifications do not materially change the purpose or scope of the submission; and if awarded, increase the Housing and Community Development Department’s revenue and expenditures budget commensurate with the grant award; and authorize the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to accept the grant, execute required grant documents, and take all other actions necessary to implement grant activities.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
5. Approve the Fourth Amendment to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Annual Action Plan to incorporate substantial amendments to the HOME Investment Partnerships Program American Rescue Plan (HOME- ARP) Allocation Plan; designate the Director of the Housing and Community Development Department, or designee, as the Certifying Official authorized to execute all documents related to the administration, management, and implementation of the HOME-ARP program; and increase the Housing and Community Development Department budget by $8,239, commensurate with the correct HOME-ARP award amount.
6. Approve the 2026 Health and Welfare Plan Rates and authorize the Human Resources Director, or designee, to enter into and execute all required and necessary agreements and take all necessary actions to implement and administer the approved health and welfare plans and agreements.
7. Approve Contract Number MA# 106-498542 with Fujitec America, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $3,589,918 for the initial three year term, with four one-year optional renewals, for a total cumulative amount not to exceed $8,376,475.32, for the provision of preventative maintenance and repair services for vertical transportation equipment at the Anaheim Convention Center; and authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute the contract and exercise the renewal options, in accordance with Invitation for Bids #515-287487-AH.
8. Approve Contract Number MA# 106-900002 with 911 Vehicle, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $1,158,609, inclusive of all applicable taxes and fees, for vehicle upfitting, parts and communication equipment installation services for the Anaheim Fire and Rescue Department, effective upon contract execution for a period of one year, with four one-year optional renewals; approve the initial year purchase against the contract, in an amount not to exceed $418,609, inclusive of sales tax and a 25% contingency; and authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute the contract and all necessary documents related to the contract, in accordance with Bid #310-288545-ER.
9. Approve Master Agreement with OneSource Supply Solutions, LLC, in the average annual cost of $1,429,531 plus any applicable sales tax, for the cumulative amount not to exceed $7,147,655, for the purchase of electrical cable and wire, for term of three years with up to two one-year optional renewals; and authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute the Master Agreement and all necessary documents related to the Master Agreement and to exercise the renewal options as appropriate.
10. Approve Amendment Number One (1) to Contract MA# 106-498168 with Hasa, Inc., dba Commercial Aquatic Services, to increase the annual not to exceed amount from $98,591 to $150,000, and establish a cumulative not to exceed amount of $750,000 over the full term of the contract, including the base year and all optional renewal periods, if exercised, for chemicals and maintenance services for the Pearson Park pool and water feature; and authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute all documents necessary to implement the amendment and future renewal periods.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
11. Approve an agreement with Woodard and Curran, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $1,328,837 plus a 10% contingency for a total amount not to exceed $1,461,720.70, to provide engineering services for the Resort Area Sanitary Sewer and Roadway Widening Improvement Project, and authorize the Director of Public Works, or designee, to execute the agreement and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement.
12. Approve the updated policies and procedures for the Homeless Assistance Program for Families (HAP-F) and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), in substantial form, with the Anaheim Union High School District for referrals to HAP-F, for a term expiring June 30, 2027, with automatic three-year renewals; authorize the Director of Housing and Community Development Department, or designee, to take all actions necessary to execute and administer the MOU and the HAP-F program, and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the MOU, as determined by the City Attorney’s Office.
14. Approve the First Amendment to the Encampment Resolution Funding Subrecipient Agreement, in substantial form, with Mariposa Women and Family Center to extend the operation of the Anaheim Comprehensive Encampment Solutions program for an additional six months expiring May 31, 2027, and the associated budget modification; approve the Homeless Housing, Assistance Prevention Subrecipient Agreement, in substantial form, with Mariposa Women and Family Center, in the amount of $963,801.10, for the operation of the Anaheim Comprehensive Encampment Solutions program, for a term expiring May 31, 2027; authorize the Anaheim Housing and Community Development Department Director, or designee, to execute the agreements and other documents necessary to implement and administer the program, provided that the maximum contract authority of $4,011,266.31 is not increased; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreements, as determined by the City Attorney’s Office.
15. Approve the 2025-01 Amendment to an agreement with Insurity LLC, successor in interest to Systema Software LLC, in an amount not to exceed $126,500 plus a 15% contingency per year, for a one (1) year extension of the Master Software and Services Agreement for the management of self-administered claims, and authorize the Purchasing Agent to amend and exercise up to three one-year renewal options.
16. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-077 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2022-137 for the purpose of modifying rates of compensation for Dispatcher classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, Clerical Employees, and approving a Letter of Understanding providing a seven percent (7%) base pay increase to employees in full-time Dispatcher classifications as a market adjustment to support recruitment and retention.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-078 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2022-138 for the purpose of modifying rates of compensation for Dispatcher classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, Part-Time Unit, and approving a Letter of Understanding concerning a seven percent (7%) base pay increase to employees in part-time Dispatcher classifications as a market adjustment to support recruitment and retention.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
Amend the Police Department’s Fiscal Year 2025/26 General Fund budget by $354,267 and the Fire Department’s Fiscal Year 2025/26 General Fund budget by $88,309, or approximately 40% of the estimated impact for Anaheim’s share of the Metro Cities Joint Powers Authority expenditures.
17. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-079 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Director of Community Services, or designee, to submit an application for grant funds from the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, and Protecting Communities and Natural Lands From Climate Risks Act of 2024 (Proposition 4), for the La Palma Park Project and if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such funding on behalf of the City and amending the budget accordingly, and determining that these actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to guideline Section 15306 [grant funds in the amount of $1,500,000].
18. ORDINANCE NO. 6613 (INTRODUCTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM repealing Chapter 15.03 and adding new Chapter
15.03 to Title 15 of the Anaheim Municipal Code pertaining to the California Building Standards Codes.
ORDINANCE NO. 6614 (INTRODUCTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM repealing existing Chapter 16.08 and adding new Chapter 16.08 to Title 16 of the Anaheim Municipal Code pertaining to the California Fire Code.
Determine that the proposed Ordinances are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that adoption of the ordinances may have a significant effect on the environment, and authorize the City Clerk to schedule a public hearing on said Ordinances for September 23, 2025; and to publish notice of said public hearing pursuant to California Government Code Section 50022.3.
19. Approve minutes of the City Council meeting of June 10, 2025.
BUSINESS CALENDAR:
3. Approve the City of Anaheim’s 2025 Citizen Participation Plan for United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Entitlement and Successor programs; and designate the Director of the Housing and Community Development Department, or designee, as the Certifying Official authorized to execute all documents related to the administration, management, and implementation of the plan.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Leon requested clarification on the records retention of the Citizen Participation Plan compared to the City’s Records Retention Schedule and potential conflicts.
City Clerk Theresa Bass explained that the Retention Schedule is prepared in collaboration with the respective departments.
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
Director of Housing and Community Development Grace Ruiz-Stepter reported that a longer records retention period would be required due to the funding source's requirements.
MOTION: Council Member Leon moved to approve the City of Anaheim’s 2025 Citizen Participation Plan for United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Entitlement and Successor programs; and designate the Director of the Housing and Community Development Department, or designee, as the Certifying Official authorized to execute all documents related to the administration, management, and implementation of the plan, seconded by Council Member Kurtz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Pro Tem Meeks and Council Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0; ABSENT – 1 (Mayor Aitken). Motion carried.
13. Approve the Memorandum of Understanding for the Anaheim Collaborative Court: Evaluating Strategies and Solutions (“ACCESS”) Program with the Orange County Public Defender’s Office, in the amount of $385,826, to establish the scope of work for a Public Defender Social Worker under the Proposition 47 grant and clarify reimbursement to the Public Defender’s Office for use of the Social Worker, for a term effective from October 1, 2024 to June 30, 2028; and authorize the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to execute all agreements and other documents necessary to implement and administer the grant activities, provided that the maximum compensation authority is not increased.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Leon highlighted the ACCESS program to address homelessness in the community. He noted the City is the only city with the program and congratulated and thanked staff for their continued work.
MOTION: Council Member Leon moved to approve the Memorandum of Understanding for the Anaheim Collaborative Court: Evaluating Strategies and Solutions (“ACCESS”) Program with the Orange County Public Defender’s Office, in the amount of $385,826, to establish the scope of work for a Public Defender Social Worker under the Proposition 47 grant and clarify reimbursement to the Public Defender’s Office for use of the Social Worker, for a term effective from October 1, 2024 to June 30, 2028; and authorize the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to execute all agreements and other documents necessary to implement and administer the grant activities, provided that the maximum compensation authority is not increased, seconded by Council Member Balius. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 6 (Mayor Pro Tem Meeks and Council Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0; ABSENT – 1 (Mayor Aitken). Motion carried.
20. Consider appointment to the Public Utilities Board to serve a term ending December 31, 2028.
Public Utilities Board
District 1 appointment Ivan Castillo (December 31, 2028) NOMINATION: Council Member Balius nominated Ivan Castillo. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES - 6 (Mayor Pro Tem Meeks and Council Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0; ABSENT - 1 (Mayor Aitken). Nomination approved.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: City Attorney Robert Fabela stated there was no reportable action for Item Nos. 1 through 4 and Council will recess to Closed Session for Item No. 5.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (non-agenda items): None
City Council Minutes of August 26, 2025
COUNCIL AGENDA SETTING:
Council Member Kurtz stated that she and Council Member Balius would like to recognize Centralia School District for their 150th Anniversary.
Council Member Balius requested a proclamation for the Orange County Buddhist Church Girl Scout group.
Council Member Leon requested clarity on the City’s graffiti removal process, including the timeline, reporting, and coordination with the Police Department.
Council Member Rubalcava requested a report on the number of graffiti reports, as well as an update from the Gang Enforcement Division on recent gang activity because sometimes graffiti is an indicator. She requested an update on potential revenue opportunities in the City, such as parking or gate ticket assessments or fees and what the funding sources might look like. Council Member Rubalcava requested an update on the enforcement mechanisms for state rent control.
Council Member Balius requested that a heat map be included in the graffiti report covering the last two months.
At 6:45 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Meeks recessed the City Council to Closed Session and reconvened at 8:16 p.m.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: City Attorney Fabela stated there was no reportable action for Closed Session Item No. 5.
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, Mayor Pro Tem Meeks adjourned the City Council meeting at 8:17 p.m., in memory of Armando Diego Orizaba and Tony Banda.
Respectfully submitted,
Theresa Bass, CMC
City Clerk