ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 4, 2025
The regular meeting of November 4, 2025 was called to order at 4:31 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 October 30, 2025.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Ashleigh E. Aitken and Council Members Natalie Meeks, Ryan Balius, Carlos A. Leon, Natalie Rubalcava, Norma Campos Kurtz, and Kristen M. Maahs
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 ITEM: None
CLOSED SESSION: At 4:31 p.m., Mayor Aitken 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: Luanne Harvey v. City of Anaheim, et al.; Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2024-01441587
At 5:01 p.m., Mayor Aitken reconvened the Anaheim City Council.
INVOCATION: Pastor James Bove, Calvary Chapel Anaheim
FLAG SALUTE: Council Member Norma Campos Kurtz
PRESENTATIONS: Recognizing City of Anaheim Retirees of 20+ years Mayor Aitken recognized the City’s retirees with 20 years or more of service. She shared that the City is built on the dedication and work of employees. She thanked the retirees for choosing the City and leaving a lasting mark on the organization and the community. She wished the retirees a well-earned retirement and new adventures, rest, and time with their loved ones. She recognized retirees Kacey Costa and John Thai.
Mr. Thai thanked the City Council for the recognition.
Recognizing the 2025 Miss Anaheim Beautiful Court
Mayor Aitken recognized the 2025 Miss Anaheim Beautiful Court. She shared that the Miss Anaheim program is a scholarship and mentoring program that supports personal growth, community service and leadership. She added that through the Miss Anaheim Scholarship Association, recipients gain experience in public speaking, civic engagement, and personal development, all while earning financial support to further their education. She reported that they represent Anaheim at community events, volunteer efforts, and on a statewide stage through the Miss California and Miss California’s Teen competitions. She shared that the Court serves as a role model to other young women in Anaheim. She recognized the dedication of the all-volunteer staff behind the program who help guide ITEM # 14
City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
and grow Miss Anaheim year after year. She thanked the 2025 Miss Anaheim Court for their service and for being such strong ambassadors of Anaheim.
Sophia Prudencio, Miss Anaheim Beautiful for 2025-2026, introduced the Anaheim Beautiful Court’s Senior Ambassadors, Samantha De Anda, Emily Maldonado, and Elyana Ortiz, and Teen Ambassador Alexa Vega. She thanked the volunteers for being present and for their help.
Recognizing Isabella Rodriguez for donating proceeds from her lemonade stand to support Gilbert High School’s teen program
Mayor Aitken recognized Isabella Rodriguez for donating $780, raised from her lemonade stand to the Rising Sunshine class at Gilbert High School. She shared that the lemonade stand was a tribute to Isabella’s mother who participated in the program as a high school student. She added that in honor of her mother’s memory, Isabella continues to support the program by collecting baby clothes, furniture, and other donations for teen parents. She shared that her kindness reminds everyone that leadership and compassion come in all ages and that small acts, fueled by meaning, can have a big impact. On behalf of the City of Anaheim, she thanked Isabella for honoring her mother’s legacy and supporting other young people in our community.
Recognizing Sofia Romero for being a community leader in the district Mayor Aitken recognized Sofia Romero for her impact in District 3 through her generosity, advocacy and dedication to the City’s neighborhoods. She reported that her recent donation of 20 bicycles to local youth is just one of the many ways she invests in the next generation — helping kids stay active, connected and confident. She shared that Sofia leads with heart, and her work reminds everyone about the meaning of community. On behalf of the City of Anaheim, she thanked Ms. Romero for her continued leadership and commitment to making a difference, especially in challenging times.
Ms. Romero recognized other community leaders and the Mayor and City Council for working together for the community. She thanked everyone who trusted her in the community. She thanked her children and her husband for their support. She congratulated her daughter for qualifying for the State volleyball finals.
Recognizing Police Lieutenant Jonathan Yepes’ retirement with the City of Anaheim
Mayor Aitken highlighted the distinguished career of Anaheim Police Department Lieutenant Jonathan Yepes. She reported that Lieutenant Yepes retired after 25 years of service, including 19 years in Anaheim. She shared that throughout his career, he served with honor, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose, always focused on protecting others and leading by example. She added that Lieutenant Yepes described his work as a journey filled with purpose, challenge, and sacrifice — especially the sacrifices made by his family. She thanked his family for supporting his career. She thanked Lieutenant Yepes for his years of leadership, service to Anaheim, and his lasting impact on the department.
Police Lieutenant Jonathan Yepes thanked Council Member Rubalcava for the recognition and expressed his gratitude over the leadership displayed at the dais. He recognized the loss of Police Department Correctional Sergeant Patrick Putman after his battle with cancer. He also recognized Police Department employee Monty Hernandez, who served with the City for 25 years. He shared that the recognition is for his family, who supported him during his career.
City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
ACCEPTANCE OF OTHER RECOGNITIONS (To be presented at a later date):
Recognizing November 1, 2025, as Extra Mile Day
Recognizing November 11, 2025, as Law Enforcement Records & Support Personnel Day
Recognizing November 2025, as National Family Caregivers Month At 5:23 p.m., Mayor Aitken called to order the 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 hearing): 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 statement.
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of two (2) public comments were received electronically prior to 3:30 p.m. [A final total of two (2) public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official records]. – See Appendix.
Paul Hyek requested street maintenance services on Santa Ana Boulevard northbound at Harbor. He reported a bird infestation at ARTIC.
R. Joshua Collins shared the importance of providing for vulnerable people instead of corporate subsidies and bonds. He requested an agenda item to discuss shelter services and safe parking for seniors. He suggested constructing tiny home communities, rent control, and code revisions to allow more legal places to sleep.
Raul Aquino Rojas. Disney Ambassador for the Disneyland Resort provided updates on the Disneyland Resort. He reported that the Disneyland Resort delivered over 68,000 school supplies to Orange Grove Elementary students and contributed over $100,000 to support Store One’s pre- opening program development and community engagement efforts, with a total commitment to Store One of over $590,000. He noted that the Veterans Alliance of Orange County recognized the Disneyland Resort for contributing to support efforts for a veteran’s cemetery in Orange County. He shared that Disneyland celebrated its 70th Anniversary by inviting residents to join 16 unique events over three days during Disney’s 70 Happiest Hours. He invited the public to visit the Disney Parks blog for more information on the events. He reported that in September, the Disneyland Resort introduced two mentorship programs with Big Brothers Big Sisters for Loara High School and Cal State Fullerton programs. He announced $1 million in workforce development grants to ten non- profits and school districts that serve Anaheim students and residents. He shared that the total amount granted for the program is $7.8 million since 2017. He shared that the Disneyland Resort was a proud sponsor of Anaheim’s Día de Los Muertos Celebration and Anaheim Fall Festival and Parade. He noted that Disney volunteers were available at both events, hosting games for the community and participating in the parade. He added that the Disneyland Resort is collaborating with Northgate Gonzalez Markets for the third time to provide local community members with food vouchers, in collaboration with three Anaheim-based non-profits. He reported that Disney would be supporting the return of the National Family Volunteer Day with Anaheim Family YMCA to help distribute food to families.
City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
Mark Richard Daniels criticized the Council for rejecting the proposed gate and parking taxes and not submitting the measures to the voters. He explained that revenue sources should have been created years ago. He added that the residents could file an initiative for an entertainment tax.
Jennifer Gies urged the City Council to recognize Hebron as a sister city and noted a petition was created for the item. She shared Hebron’s meaning and significance. She noted that it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. She shared that Anaheim and Hebron share a status of being the most populous cities in their respective surroundings and are historically known for growing grapes.
She noted that a significant Arab American population resides in Anaheim, including the formally designated area of Little Arabia. She concluded that Anaheim and Hebron as sister cities would reflect friendship, unity, alliance, and community.
Debra Ashby with the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) announced different programs open for application. She shared that SCAQMD is accepting applications for four project categories under the Invest Clean Program, totaling over $417 million. She explained that Invest Clean would advance zero-emission freight transportation, expand clean infrastructure, support job training, and deliver public health benefits to communities. She shared that the four categories are charging infrastructure, truck replacement, cargo handling equipment, and battery electric switcher locomotives. She reported that Invest Clean aims to modernize Southern California’s goods movement and logistics system by transitioning to zero-emission technologies. She added that funding is available for projects located in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. She encouraged the public to visit the Invest Clean website for additional details. She shared that the second program was the Go Zero Incentive Program available to residents, families, and small businesses to switch to cleaner, zero-emission spaces and water heating. She shared that the program is a pilot incentive program totaling over $21 million to replace traditional gas furnaces and air conditioning units with one efficient appliance. She noted that applications are processed first- come, first-served, with rebates ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per heat pump, with up to $3,000 for homes and $4,000 for small businesses.
Bryan Kaye presented a photo of his parents participating in a blood drive during the Vietnam War.
He requested that the City Council review and respond to the petition that he submitted.
Thomas Fielder read a recent news article regarding allegations by former Purchasing Agent Kari Bouffard alleging misconduct by the City’s Finance Director and a tort claim filed against the City.
Mayor Aitken referred Mr. Fielder to the City Manager’s Report from the October 28, 2025, City Council meeting for comments in response to the lawsuit.
Emad Gharaibeh shared that he is a 25-year resident of the City and has recently experienced serious violations by the City. He explained that his attempts to reach the City Council have been unsuccessful. He requested the City Council’s assistance regarding Code Enforcement-related issues.
Mayor Aitken referred Mr. Gharaibeh to Deputy City Manager Ted White.
Marc Herbert commented on the lack of transparency to the public. He referenced the previous bonds for the Convention Center and the Disney parking structure, and the lack of housing in the City. He mentioned the upcoming public hearing on the Anaheim Tourism Improvement District’s proposed modifications.
Kenneth Batiste criticized the Council’s decision at the October 28, 2025 City Council meeting on the proposed admissions and parking taxes. He referenced subsidies and tax exemptions provided to City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
Disney and the City’s debt. He called for tax measures that would pass and campaign finance reform.
He stated that residents may be required to take action on their own behalf.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS:
Council Member Maahs thanked the Rotary Club of Greater Anaheim for their biannual neighborhood cleanup in District 5. She shared that she was joined with Neighborhood Services, the Anaheim Police Department, and volunteers from Bikers Against Child Abuse. She reported that the Rotary Club has been organizing the cleanups for more than 10 years and highlighted the difference they make in the community. She shared an image of a father and daughter who participated in the cleanup and highlighted the daughter’s anticipation of helping the community. She thanked staff for their work, including Jason Perez, who works with neighborhood families and identifies neighborhoods in need. She reported that on Saturday, she attended the Naranjeros Car Club’s La Cuadra Día de Los Muertos celebration at St. Anthony Claret Church. She shared that the event hosted local vendors, small businesses, car clubs, and families for an afternoon of music, food and community. Father Bill, Pastor at St. Anthony, provided blessings over the cars. She shared that District 5 Cultural and Heritage Commissioner Richard Romeros displayed one of his art pieces along with his father’s car, which was featured in the show. Council Member Maahs announced that Saturday, November 15, South Junior High will host the annual Run4Sharks & Ocean Health Fair, to support the school’s ongoing Ocean Academy. She welcomed everyone to participate in the one-mile run or to learn about ocean conservation and the community. She shared that the Ocean Academy has provided a meaningful way for students to stay engaged in school by connecting the school curriculum to the real world and inspiring curiosity, stewardship, and pride. She encouraged the public to visit runforsharks.org to learn more about the run. Council Member Maahs invited caregivers from across the community to Caregiver Appreciation Day at St. Anthony Claret on Sunday, November 16, beginning at 2 p.m. She shared that the event is for anyone who provides care to connect with others and learn about local resources. She requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of retired Anaheim Firefighter James “Huck” Fenn. She highlighted his service on Engine 26 out of Station No. 10 and her work with Mr. Fenn during her time at Ganahl Lumber Company. She added that his humble nature would live on through his sons Steve and Chris. She shared that the meeting would close with gratitude for Mr. Fenn’s dedication to the City and in appreciation of the dedication and sacrifices made by all of the City’s first responder families.
Council Member Leon reported that his office hosted its third annual Trunk or Treat event at the Anaheim Elementary School District’s Key Campus. He thanked Superintendent Jesse Chavarria for permitting the event. He shared that families and local car clubs, including Naranjeros, Brown Descents Car Club Association, and Anaheim Car Club, attended the event with incredible themed displays. He thanked the Public Works and Public Utilities Departments and Public Utilities General Manager Dukku Lee for attending. He added that Anaheim Fire & Rescue and the Police Department connected with residents and ensured smooth operations. He highlighted Kellie Tran with his office for taking the lead on the event, and Angie, Maggie, Richard, Jeanne, and all of the volunteers who dedicated their time to a safe and fun Halloween experience. Council Member Leon recognized Jem Enterprises, a local family-owned company based in District 2, as the September Business of the Month. He shared that they specialize in custom ornamental iron and structural steel. He highlighted their attention to detail, reliability, and commitment to customers. He recognized YoYo Burgers and Chicken, located on Brookhurst Street, south of Crescent, as the September Restaurant of the Month. He shared that the restaurant is family-owned and takes a fun spin on burgers, sandwiches, salads, wings, and more. Council Member Leon announced Candy4Less as the October Business of the Month. He mentioned that the business recently opened on Katella Avenue, offering candy and party supplies. He noted that the team worked hard to make it a welcoming spot for families and neighbors. He recognized Phở Gà Hải Vân 2, located on Magnolia Avenue, south of Ball Road, as the October Restaurant of the Month. He shared that the restaurant is run by a proud brother and City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
sister team. He added that they serve beef phở, filet mignon noodles, and chicken wings. He congratulated everyone who was recognized, noting that the recognitions highlight the pride and care that residents and small businesses take in bringing joy and pride to Anaheim.
Council Member Rubalcava expressed her gratitude to serve the 50,000 residents of District 3, and share updates on her role as a policymaker, and ensure that the community is represented. She shared that she serves on the North Net Joint Powers Authority, the fire training center in the City, in collaboration with the City of Orange. She shared that the Joint Powers Authority voted on its strategic plan for 2025-2027. She explained that the training center serves as a training facility for other fire departments across the State. She commended the work of the City’s firefighters and the Training Center. Council Member Rubalcava thanked Chief Communications Officer Mike Lyster and his team, who joined her at St. Boniface Catholic Church, for an immigration resource fair. She shared that the event collaborated with Catholic Charities of Orange County, the Mexican Consul, Anaheim High School, and Mental Health Resources and Care California. She added that they met with parishioners who were attending church and provided them with resources. She shared that a majority of the questions were related to public safety compared to immigration. She noted that the church serves Catholics across Orange County, including residents in other districts within the City who shared public safety concerns. She reported that she would follow up with them and work with the Police Department to ensure additional patrols in the neighborhood. Council Member Rubalcava requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of retired Correctional Sergeant Patrick Putman, who served with the Anaheim Police Department for 31 years before his retirement in July 2024, and former City Council Member and Anaheim Police Department employee, Louis “Lou” Lopez.
Mayor Pro Tem Meeks announced upcoming Veterans Day ceremonies for veterans across Anaheim. She shared that Saturday, November 8th at 10:00 a.m., the Anaheim Hills Rotary will hold a flags of honor ceremony. She reported that on November 11th at 11 a.m., an event will be held at the Veterans Monument across from City Hall. She invited the public to attend the ceremonies to remember the occasion.
Council Member Balius announced an upcoming tree lighting event held by the West Anaheim Organization at Twila Reid Park on Friday, December 5th. He shared that the show would begin at 6 p.m. with performances by local elementary school students and a visit from Santa.
CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE:
City Manager Vanderpool shared the monthly update on Angel Stadium, noting that there are no long-term discussions taking place with none imminent. He reported that the City remains in the second phase of the ongoing stadium assessment, and engineering consultants have completed testing the concrete and metal columns in the stadium. The testing samples have been sent to a lab for processing with results expected in four to six weeks. He added that once processed, the findings would be reviewed and analyzed as standard procedure. He reported that the last step would be to hire an engineering firm for a final assessment based on the testing and results, which is expected in mid-2026.
City Manager Vanderpool reported that the State has officially certified the City’s Housing Element.
He shared that it is a milestone that marks more than four years of work by City staff, the community, the Planning Commission, and the City Council. He added that with a certified Housing Element, the City is better positioned for grant funding, as many grants look at Housing Element compliance for eligibility or ranking. He noted that with the certification, the City is protected from future development applications that may circumvent the City’s zoning or General Plan. He concluded that with the certification, the City continues its commitment to enhancing housing opportunities in Anaheim.
City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
At 6:16 p.m., Mayor Aitken recessed the Anaheim City Council to address the Anaheim Housing and Public Improvements Authority, and Anaheim Housing Authority agendas and reconvened at 6:18 p.m.
CONSENT CALENDAR: At 6:18 p.m., the Consent Calendar was considered.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to waive reading of the ordinances and resolutions and adopt the consent calendar as presented, in accordance with reports, certifications, and recommendations furnished each City Council Member, seconded by Council Member Rubalcava.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
1. Receive and file minutes of the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting of September 24, 2025 and the Public Utilities Board meeting of September 24, 2025.
2. Approve Contract No. MA 106-498878 with IIA Lifting Services, Inc., in the amount of $126,000, to perform quarterly, annual, quadrennial, and five-year inspections on various aerial equipment for the Fleet Services Division for a one year term with four one-year optional renewals (cumulative contract in the amount of $630,000 plus annual renewal increases by the CPI and a 20% contingency); and authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute the contract and all necessary documents related to the contract including renewal options, in accordance with Bid #9861.
3. Approve Contract No. MA 106-498877 with M & P Diesel & Gas Shop LLC dba Randy’s Automotive & Transmission, in the amount of $216,750, to provide automotive transmission repair services on an as-needed basis for Fleet Services, for a one year term, with up to four one-year optional renewals (cumulative contract amount of $1,083,750, plus annual renewal increases by the CPI, applicable sales tax, and a 20% contingency); authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute the contract and all necessary documents related to the contract including renewal options, in accordance with Invitation for Bids No. 412-288163-MQ; waive the sealed bidding requirements of Council Policy 4.0 and ratify a ten month extension of the current master agreement with Randy’s Automotive and Transmission for the continued provision of automotive transmission repair services for critical vehicles during the solicitation process, increasing the contract amount by $40,000.
4. Authorize the Purchasing Agent to issue orders to Digital Scepter Corporation for the purchase of Palo Alto network firewall related software and support services, in an amount not to exceed $400,000 (projected cost for initial year is $175,070), inclusive of all applicable taxes and fees, plus a 15% contingency, effective from September 28, 2025 through September 27, 2027; and authorize the Purchasing Agent to execute all necessary contractual documents related to the purchase, in accordance with Cooperative Contract No. AR3229 between NASPO Value Point and Palo Alto Networks, Inc.
5. Approve the First Amendment to Agreement, in substantial form, with Sequoia Concepts, Inc. dba Sequoia Financial Services, Inc. for collection services of unpaid and delinquent miscellaneous accounts receivable due to the City, extending the term of the agreement for one additional year to expire on August 31, 2026 and authorize the Finance Director/City Treasurer to execute the First Amendment and other documents necessary to implement and City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
administer the Agreement and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the Agreement, as determined by the City Attorney’s Office.
6. Approve an agreement with Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc., in a not to exceed cost of $448,130, plus a contingency of up to 10% for as-needed extra services, for integrated resources plan consulting services, with a two year initial term and two one-year optional extensions, and authorize the Public Utilities General Manager, or designees, to execute the agreement and any related documents, including any cost-neutral amendments of the agreement and any documents contemplated by the agreement, and to take such necessary or advisable actions to implement, fund, and administer the agreement.
7. Approve the Cooperative Agreement with the City of Fullerton, in an amount estimated to be $518,950, for Anaheim’s pro-rata share for the design, construction, and administration of Anaheim’s portion of the Raymond Avenue Improvements from Burton Street to Orangethorpe Avenue, and authorize the Director of Public Works, or designee, to execute the agreement and any related documents, and to take any and all actions as are necessary to implement and administer the agreement.
8. Approve the Public Highway At-Grade Crossing Agreement with Union Pacific Railroad Company (UPRR) for construction and maintenance services for the new railroad crossing on River Road (previously South Phoenix Club Drive) between Katella Avenue and Ball Road; authorize the total payment of $1,531,615 for grant rights and construction of railroad improvements; and pay UPRR a yearly maintenance fee of $25,144 per annum for railroad signal maintenance and surface maintenance beginning in Fiscal Year 2028.
9. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-093 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Public Utilities General Manager to serve as Anaheim’s authorized representative in seeking financial assistance for City of Anaheim Wells 48 and 53 PFAS Treatment Systems (“Groundwater Treatment Plants, Phase C-1”) and, if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such financial assistance on behalf of the City and amending the budget for the applicable fiscal years accordingly.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-094 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Public Utilities General Manager to serve as Anaheim’s authorized representative in seeking financial assistance for City of Anaheim Wells 39 and 47 PFAS Treatment Systems (“Groundwater Treatment Plants, Phase C-2”) and, if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such financial assistance on behalf of the City and amending the budget for the applicable fiscal years accordingly.
Award a construction contract to the lowest responsible bidder, General Pump Company, Inc., in the amount of $6,598,689, plus a 10% contingency, for the Groundwater Treatment Plants Phase C Well Rehabilitation; authorize the Director of Public Works, to execute the contract and related documents, including any cost-neutral amendments of the contract and any documents contemplated by the contract, and to take such actions as are necessary, required, or advisable to implement and administer the contract; Determine that Phase C-1 and Phase C-2 are categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Sections 15301(b), 15302(c), and 15303 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations; authorize the Finance Director to execute the Escrow Agreement pertaining to City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
contract retentions; and amend Anaheim Public Utilities’ Fiscal Year 2025/26 Water Capital Improvement Program budget by $3,600,000.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-095 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM establishing the dates and times of regular meetings of the Anaheim City Council for the 2026 calendar year.
11. ORDINANCE NO. 6616 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM renewing, with modifications, Ordinance No. 6598 approving the Anaheim Police Department’s Military Equipment Use Policy pursuant to California Government Code Section 7071 [Anaheim Police Department Military Equipment Use Policy 705; introduced at the Council meeting of October 28, 2025, Item No. 25].
12. Approve minutes of the City Council meeting of September 23, 2025.
BUSINESS CALENDAR:
13. Consider District 1 appointment to the Older Adults Commission to serve a term ending December 31, 2028.
Older Adults Commission
District 1 appointment: Julie A. Showalter (December 31, 2028) (unscheduled vacancy)
NOMINATION: Council Member Balius nominated Julie A. Showalter. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES 0 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0.
Nomination approved.
At 6:19 p.m., City Manager Vanderpool left the meeting, and Deputy City Manager Ted White joined the meeting on behalf of the City Manager.
5:30 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING:
14. Consideration of a resolution amending the Sewer Impact and Improvement Fees for the East Area of the City of Anaheim.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-096 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Sewer Impact and Improvement Fees for the East Area of the City of Anaheim and determining such actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080 (b) (8) and Guideline Section 15273 (a).
Director of Public Works Rudy Emami reported that the public hearing adopted updated Sanitary Sewer Impact and Improvement Fees for the East Anaheim area, based on the 2024 Master Plan Addendum and Financial Implementation Plan adopted on April 22, 2025. He stated that the East City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
Anaheim Sanitary Sewer Area is generally located east of the 57 freeway. He explained that the fee update ensures new development pays a fair share of sewer improvements to serve build-out conditions. He reported that across all land uses, fees are proposed to increase by 36 percent. He shared that the fees would fund capital improvements needed due to new development and will be adjusted annually per Municipal Code. He added that the action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as it establishes fees to fund infrastructure.
DISCUSSION: In response to Mayor Aitken, Director Emami confirmed that the fees strictly apply to new development and would not result in increases for current residents.
At 6:21 p.m., Mayor Aitken opened the public hearing.
Marc Herbert commented on the lack of public engagement for public hearings and City proceedings.
He questioned why public safety projects, including the cleanup of contaminated water wells, are not considered compared to Resort-area projects. He inquired about the funding of the project and the use of ATID funds. He questioned the proposed fee increases despite the Council’s recent decision on proposed admissions and parking taxes. He inquired how ongoing sewer maintenance would be funded.
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported no electronic public comments were received related to Public Hearing Item No. 20.
At 6:27 p.m., Mayor Aitken closed the public hearing.
DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks clarified that the Sewer Study was related to the East Area of the City and not the Resort Area and did not impact one another. She stated that she is hesitant to increase fees but emphasized the importance of ensuring that new developments pay their fair share of impacts on the City’s infrastructure.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2025-096 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Sewer Impact and Improvement Fees for the East Area of the City of Anaheim and determining such actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080 (b) (8) and Guideline Section 15273 (a), seconded by Council Member Rubalcava. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0. Motion carried.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS:
City Attorney Robert Fabela stated there was no reportable action.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (non-agenda items): None
COUNCIL AGENDA SETTING:
Council Member Rubalcava shared that over the weekend, she received requests from residents affected by the federal government shutdown. She noted that Chief Communications Officer Mike Lyster and other City staff provided information on food sustainability opportunities and other resources. She requested that staff consider providing resources for residents.
Mayor Pro Tem Meeks proposed reinstating a permit streamlining task force to help individuals navigate the permitting and development process. She explained that, with new staff in place and City Council Minutes of November 4, 2025
feedback from those who have faced challenges, the task force would provide support to people who are unfamiliar with the process.
ADJOURNMENT:
With no further business before the Council, Mayor Aitken adjourned the City Council at 6:31 p.m., in memory of James “Huck” Fenn, Patrick Putman, and Louis “Lou” Lopez.
Respectfully submitted,
Theresa Bass, CMC
City Clerk