Anaheim City Council
February 24, 2026

ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF DECEMBER 9, 2025
The regular meeting of December 9, 2025 was called to order at 1:09 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 December 5, 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, Chief Assistant City Attorney Kristin Pelletier, and City Clerk Theresa Bass
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON WORKSHOP:

Duane Roberts questioned the City’s priority to establish a training facility when Orange County already has a robust infrastructure. He added that the County operates two major academies and basic and advanced law enforcement education. He highlighted the facility's modern appearance and graduating 950 officers annually. He stated that building a training facility would duplicate existing resources and waste taxpayer money.

City Clerk Theresa Bass announced that no electronically submitted comments were received related to the Workshop.

WORKSHOP: Strategic Plan
Deputy City Manager Ted White reported that the workshop would provide an update to the City’s 10 Year Strategic Plan, adopted in April 2024. He noted that the Strategic Plan established six goals:

Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility; Enhancing Livability; Expanding Infrastructure and Amenities; Fostering a High-Performing Organization; promoting Public Safety; and Encouraging development and tourism. He shared that the focus would be on two strategies identified under the “Maintaining Fiscal Responsibility” Goal. He reported that the strategies are “Identify potential new funding sources/revenue to increase City revenues to maintain and enhance City services” and “Create a plan for the responsible use of Lease Payment Measurement Revenues, or LMPR”.

Deputy City Manager White reported that the City is the tenth largest city in California by population, the largest and oldest city in Orange County, and a full-service City with historic and high-performing Police and Fire and Rescue Departments. He noted that the City operates one of California’s most respected municipal public utilities. He reported that the City’s Public Works Department maintains 50 square miles of infrastructure and 580 miles of roadway, and the Parks Department built and maintains 68 parks, 7 libraries, and 12 community centers. He recognized the importance of the community’s and organization’s accomplishments. He noted that Anaheim residents are subject to the lowest tax burden of any large city in California.

Deputy City Manager White highlighted the visionary decisions of City leadership over many decades, to invest in and grow a world-class tourism economy that provides over $140 million in net surplus revenue to the City through the 26 million-plus visitors to Anaheim’s theme parks and entertainment attractions.

Deputy City Manager White highlighted different projects that address the Strategic Plan's top priorities including ongoing investments on Beach Boulevard, the Economic Development Strategic ITEM # 16
City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Plan, and the near completion of Fire Station No. 12. He noted the completion of the Anaheim Tourism Improvement District (ATID) Modernization Project, which expands affordable housing and home ownership opportunities. He shared that District Community Meetings were restructured and a new community calendar would be launching early 2026 to expand community engagement, communication, and outreach.

Deputy City Manager White explained that the presentation would focus on the priorities for Years 1 to 5, and added that the Police Training Facility was included in the Years 5 to 10 priorities and would not be included for discussion.

Deputy City Manager White shared that, given the reliance on tourism as the main driver of the City’s revenue, a strong reserve balance is more important to the City’s financial strategy than other cities that rely on property tax and sales tax as the main sources of revenue. He explained that the current City policy is to maintain a reserve balance of 7 to 10%; however, the best practice would be to maintain a reserve balance closer to 20%. He shared that to accomplish that, the City would need to build its reserves by approximately 50 to 75 million over a period of time, beginning in 2028, following the LPMR payoff.

Deputy City Manager White reported that there are three strategies related to Supporting Public Safety that would require significant capital and/or operational costs. He stated that a new Police Headquarters would cost between $250 and $350 million to construct and a new Fire station would cost approximately $25 to $30 million. He added that to reduce response times, additional officers and/or fire personnel would be required. He stated that ten officers would cost approximately $3.2 million per year.

Deputy City Manager White reported that two strategies under the goal of Enhancing Livability would require significant capital or operational expenditures if prioritized. He explained that to address neighborhood blight, Council may wish to consider strategic acquisitions of certain derelict commercial properties, including blight-inducing motels. He added that Council has expressed an interest in supporting affordable housing programs with General Fund resources.

Deputy City Manager White reported that the implementation of the Classification and Compensation study was underway, which would bring various employee classifications to competitive compensation ranges in line with Council direction.

Deputy City Manager White stated that the longest list of strategies that require significant capital or operational resources is in the goal of “Infrastructure and Amenities”. He reported that the strategies include funding to construct a new Senior Center, a new Sports Complex, a Downtown Civic Center, improving and beautifying major corridors, and a Mobility Plan to connect major attractions. He noted that each project carries construction costs in the millions of dollars.

Deputy City Manager White reported that investing in the maintenance of the City’s streets, as measured by the Street Paving Index Score of 75+, could require 5 million to 30 million per year to make meaningful progress. He added that new parks on Edison easements would require approximately $5 million per acre. He shared that a new public pool would be budgeted at $30 million and deferred maintenance at City facilities would cost approximately $5 million per year for a period of 20 years. He noted that the OC Riverwalk project is a major capital expense and potential Resort

2.0 Reinvestments are unknown, but an important strategy to keep in mind as a priority to ensure that the Resort continues to grow as the economic engine of the City. He added that the full cost may not fall on the General Fund with the use of grant funding, and other tools and partnerships that would help accomplish many of the strategies.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

DISCUSSION: Council Member Rubalcava requested additional clarification on Resort 2.0 Reinvestment.

Deputy City Manager White explained that specifics are to be determined. He reported that there is an Ad-Hoc Committee meeting to discuss potential reinvestment in the Resort for improvements to continue the economic engine and facilitate millions of visitors in the future.

In response to Council Member Rubalcava, Deputy City Manager White reported that the original Resort Improvement Bonds were $510 million.

Council Member Rubalcava requested additional information on the improvements included.

Deputy City Manager White explained that the improvements included the Disney parking structure, beautification improvements along Harbor and Katella, sign rebate programs, partnerships with Caltrans, and bridges.

In response to Council Member Balius, Deputy City Manager White explained that the costs can be addressed by order of magnitude and range widely. He added that additional details would be determined once the Council sets its priorities. He stated that the costs for deferred maintenance were attributed to making meaningful progress at City facilities. He acknowledged Council Member Balius’ concern regarding the wide range of projected costs.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks clarified that the Resort bonds covered the costs for infrastructure improvements, the parking structure, storm drains, landscaping, and signage. She further explained that Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT) covered the costs of the Resort bonds and were not taken from the City’s General Fund.

Council Member Rubalcava clarified that TOT paid for the bonds; however, the funds were diverted from the General Fund.

Council Member Balius inquired if increased costs were included and if operational costs were considered. Deputy City Manager White explained that certain strategies require additional costs.

Deputy City Manager White continued the presentation and provided an overview of the adopted FY 2025/26 budget. He reported that the City’s “Big 3” revenues, (Transient Occupancy, Sales and Use, and Property Taxes) make up 74% of General Fund revenue sources. He shared that the largest piece is TOT, at 39%, followed by Sales and Use Tax, which makes up 18%, and Property taxes make up 17%. He stated that anticipated revenue from TOT is $247 million. He noted that the Resort area for 97% of all TOT revenue received. He reported that anticipated revenue from Sales and Use Taxes is $115 million, or 18% of General Fund operating sources and the Resort area accounts for 28% or $32.5 million, of all Sales Tax revenue received. He added that the tax rate in Anaheim is

7.75% of retail sales, with the City receiving 1 cent of every dollar spent in Anaheim. He reported that about 30% comes from general retail and the remaining 70% is shared almost equally among the food, transportation, construction and business-to-business categories. He announced that anticipated revenue from Property Taxes this year is approximately $111 million, or 17% of General Fund operating sources, and the Resort area accounts for about 15%, or $16.4 million, of all Property Tax revenue received.

Deputy City Manager White reported that 64% of the City’s expenditures are dedicated to keeping the City safe, including Police and Fire. He shared that labor expenditures equal $371.8 million and make up nearly 70% of the General Fund Budget.

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Deputy City Manager White mentioned that in 1997, the Anaheim Public Financing Authority issued lease revenue bonds to finance the construction of improvements in the Anaheim Resort. He added that to pay off the bonds, City uses revenues from increases to Resort-revenue sources and outlined the remaining Lease Payment Measurement Revenues (LPMR) payoffs in 2026 and 2027. He noted that the Anaheim Resort has been so successful, thanks in part to the Resort Improvement funded by these bonds, that the LPMR will be retired nearly 10 years ahead of the original anticipated schedule.

He reported that in addition to the Resort Improvement Bonds, the City has other Bonds and Borrowing debt on the books. He added that in 2020, in response to COVID, the City borrowed money from Internal Funds to keep operations going. He shared that the anticipated outstanding principal on this borrowing is expected to be $27 million in 2029, with an annual debt service of $2 million. He reported that in 2021, the Anaheim Public Financing Authority issued $138 million in Working Capital bonds to minimize the impacts of the pandemic and preserve City services. He added that the Working Capital Bonds are still used to bridge an on-going structural deficit, or gap, in city revenues and city expenses - approximately $69 million in FY 2025/26. He reported that in 2021, the Anaheim Public Financing Authority issued $250 million in refunding bonds for the Anaheim Convention Center expansions and other capital improvements related to the convention center expansion. He announced that the total anticipated Outstanding Principal on this total borrowing in July 2029, which is expected to total approximately $357 million, with an annual debt service of approximately $24 million. He noted that paying the debt early would free up long-term resources, which is a potential strategy Council may wish to prioritize.

DISCUSSION: In response to Mayor Aitken, Budget Supervisor D’Anne Lee confirmed that the payments for the refinanced Convention Center debt is paid from the General Fund. She explained that the intention for the expansion was to drive increases to TOT revenue that would benefit the City.

Deputy City Manager White provided an overview of the current Amended General Fund forecast with Council-approved changes. He added that the City is balanced with use of one-time money, including the balance of the working capital bond proceeds, the $10 million previously set-aside for the repayment of debt, and the proceeds from the Hilton parking structure sale. He added that the LPMR is estimated to be paid off in April 2027. He noted that the plan does not include any beyond those that have already been approved.

Deputy City Manager White explained that while the Five-Year Forecast is balanced with the use of reserves, it does not contemplate the threat of recession, or other risks that could cause the deficit to grow and fund balances to drop. He added that any revenue loss associated with a recession could also compromise the projected payoff of the LPMR revenue bonds. He provided an overview of the impacts and projected losses on the “Big Three” Revenues if there were a recession. He reported that the Citywide classification and compensation study and expiring memoranda of understanding with several labor groups bring added risk to the Five-Year forecast and provided an overview of potential impacts. He noted that the Five-Year Forecast does not include any salary adjustments beyond what is contractually obligated in the current agreements.

Deputy City Manager White reported that ongoing development and investments portend significant new revenues to the City in forthcoming years. He shared that Disney’s commitment to invest a minimum of $2 billion dollars in visitor-inducing investments such as new theme park attractions and hospitality offerings is expected to generate approximately $30 million per year in ongoing revenue by 2034. He added that OCVIBE’s $5 billion dollar plus investment in new hotels, entertainment venues, office and residential is expected to generate approximately $10 million annually to the general fund.

He noted that other hotels are expected to be constructed in the Resort over the next five to ten years, as well as other commercial developments such as the new Porsche auto dealership, to bring new revenues to the City. He summarized that the budget landscape includes that the LPMR would City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

be paid as soon as 2027, the City is bridging a $69 million structural deficit this year using Working Capital Bonds, the General Fund will receive approximately $57 million per year new net revenue in 2028, assuming retirement of LPMR debt and eliminating the structural budget deficit, the City’s operational costs (primarily labor) are a significant risk to availability of future LPMR funds, and new revenue from development is expected over next 5 to 10 Years.

Deputy City Manager White reported that a Pay-As-You-Go funding approach is a normal approach for the City’s budget. He explained that the approach pays for projects directly from available annual revenues. He noted that the funding is good for smaller projects and maintenance of on-going programs. It is not typically a practical tool for paying for large capital projects. He added that there is no debt or interest and it provides the greatest flexibility in spending.

Deputy City Manager White reported that Bond-Financed Projects are usually long-term, and the project should last at least as long as the bond repayment period, typically 20 to 30 years. He added that projects paid by bonds need to have a public benefit, meaning the project should serve broad public needs. He noted that bonding helps manage the up-front cost of something that’s essential, but too expensive to fund out of an annual budget, or pay-as-you-go. He added that with bonds, costs are spread across multiple generations that will benefit from the project. He outlined risky bonds for consideration including, routine maintenance, programs with high operational costs (like staffing), and projects that are speculative or unproven technologies.

Deputy City Manager White shared that Public Private Partnerships (P3s) are a funding tool that are contractual agreement where private entities will finance, build, and/or operate public projects. He noted that they are best for revenue-generating assets, such as parking structures or cutting-edge mobility systems, but several jurisdictions have also used P3s to build new civic center complexes, such as the County of Orange and City of Long Beach. He shared that an advantage of P3s is the risk shifts to the private sector and leverages private capital. He added that they can be complex and there is always a need to make sure the public benefit is protected and prioritized.

Deputy City Manager White reported that grants are for specific projects or programs that can be funded by federal, state, regional or private funds. He added that grants are beneficial for one-time park improvement projects, or other one-time projects and pilot programs and projects that can sunset if and when the grant expires. He noted that grants help reduce the local burden of funding these projects and programs. He mentioned that grants are highly competitive and typically come with requirements and may require matching local funds.

Deputy City Manager White covered potential revenue policy options. He shared that Anaheim has the lowest tax burden of any large city in California, with no local sales tax. He added that a local sales tax measure could generate anywhere from $25 to 100 million a year for the General Fund. He noted that a local tax measure would require voter approval. He acknowledged that while a sales tax may impact residents and businesses, it also diversifies City revenue streams and creates general fund dollars, which in turn would service the community. He added that a utility use fee could be considered with voter approval and impact the City’s ratepayers, while revenues may decrease with conservation efforts, it provides the City with a broad base of reliable and locally controlled revenue.

He reported that a 1% increase from 15% to 16% would result in approximately a $15 million increase in General Fund Revenue. He noted that the monies are primarily funded by visitors and tourism with low impact on residents and businesses. He added that the City is already at or near the top of the market with a 15% TOT rate, and this impacts the City’s competitiveness in the market. He noted that as a destination city, Anaheim cannot rely solely on TOT as it is vulnerable to closures and catastrophic events – such as the COVID pandemic. He reported that a tourism or admissions tax would be separate from the Transient Occupancy Tax but still funded primarily by visitors and City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

tourism. He shared that I could apply to admission into privately owned or operated theme parks, sports and entertainment events across the City that have a high capacity. He shared that a parking tax could generate roughly $20 to 30 million dollars a year. He noted a proposed tax could apply to parking facilities that have a higher capacity. He shared that the City would likely see an increase over time with increased visitors, new parking structures and additional development.

Deputy City Manager White reported that a Documentary Real Estate Transfer Tax (DTT) is essentially a one-time fee when real estate is sold or transferred. He shared that based on the market, it is an unpredictable revenue source and it’s typically a tiered tax, meaning tax rates are proportional to the value of the property. He noted that it works best as supplemental or strategic funding, not for core operating expenses and it can drop sharply in slow markets.

Deputy City Manager White reported that potential revenue from the sale or lease of Angel Stadium and the surrounding property is unknown at this time and would require a lengthy and complex process and set of considerations. He explained that the time is right to engage in preliminary conversations with the State regarding the Surplus Land Act process and other State-level considerations to move forward a project that could positively impact the Southern California economy and see the development of much-needed affordable and market-rate housing and other community benefits. He shared that staff recommends engaging with the State Department of Housing and Community Development regarding an appropriate Surplus Land Act process and with our State representatives regarding an approach, finalize the Stadium Assessment, which is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2026, and following the Stadium Assessment, embark on a Community Input Process to capture their priorities and ideas.

Deputy City Manager White provided an overview of other programs, including a Billboard program.

He shared that revenues may total $1 million to $2 million per year but could be considered visual blight in the community. He shared that Development Impact fees would be considering updated development impact fees in January. He added that Downtown parking fees could offset the cost of maintaining downtown assets; however, it could incentivize individuals to not park in the structures or impact local communities. He continued that naming rights for the Anaheim Arena, a potential Cannabis program, and a rideshare company tax. He added that the Municipal Code prohibits franchise fees for video service providers, and any policy would require Council consideration and approval. He added that the disposition of former Redevelopment properties is an existing policy that the City utilizes. He shared that staff would return to the City Council in April with a comprehensive Strategic Plan annual update or sooner with Council direction.

DISCUSSION: Council Member Kurtz expressed her support for the Angel Stadium direction. She requested that community engagement begin sooner and prior to the assessment.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks supported community engagement on Angel Stadium. She suggested the City conduct a study to evaluate revenues for a sports complex on the property.

Council Member Maahs expressed her support for community engagement on the property. She requested community input before conducting a study for a sports complex on the site. She requested clarification on the video service provider franchise fees.

Assistant City Manager Greg Garcia explained that in California, most video operators including cable companies, would be charged a franchise fee for use of the streets and roads for bearing of cable and services. He shared that it has shifted to a Statewide franchise, but the State has preserved each City’s ability to receive up to a 5% franchise fee. He explained that in 2008, the City Council at the time, requested an open and competitive playing field for video operators and eliminated the fees. He explained that the franchise fee would not apply to streaming services and the courts have ruled that City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

it is not legal. He explained that the fee is a traditional franchise fee for allowing a utility company to rent the City’s streets.

In response to Council Member Maahs, Assistant City Manager Garcia confirmed that Anaheim is the only City in the State
Mayor Pro Tem Meeks inquired if WiFi was included in the franchise fee. In response, Assistant City Manager Greg Garcia stated that he would research if it applies.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Public Utilities General Manager Dukku Lee reported that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) allows the companies to attach items to utility poles and the City can recover the costs. He explained that the franchise fee applies to franchises that are operating in the City and using the City streets and attaching items to the public right-of-way. He added that the fees are associated with the purpose and not the poles. He added that boxes can be attached to the City’s right-of-way for pedestals for cable operators or other infrastructure. He confirmed that the operators need to secure permits for that purpose.

Mayor Aitken inquired if the City charges additional fees for those uses. Assistant City Manager Garcia confirmed the City does not charge an ongoing franchise fee for the use.

Council Member Balius commented on the State’s restrictions on the use of the Angels Stadium property. He inquired if the State would allow the City to build a sports complex. He supported residents' feedback on their vision for the property. He requested additional clarification on what the City can do with the property and the financial impacts to the General Fund if the Stadium was removed.

Council Member Rubalcava suggested a dedicated meeting to explore the City’s options with the Surplus Land Act to discuss the issues that occurred with the prior deal and an opportunity to provide direction to staff. She concurred with Council Member Balius’ comments to understand the City’s restrictions prior to making a decision on the property.

City Manager Jim Vanderpool requested clarification on whether the Council’s discussion would occur prior to community engagement.

Council Member Rubalcava recommended that the discussion take place before the community engagement to provide information to the community on the restrictions for the site.

Mayor Aitken requested that staff work with the Communications team to gauge the community’s priorities to keep the baseball franchise in the City compared to other options.

Council Member Kurtz shared that youth sports are lucrative to the City. She suggested allowing the State to initiate the discussions on the property. She supported receiving community input on the property before a Council discussion.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Assistant City Manager Garcia clarified that Visit Anaheim created a Sport Anaheim division to lure sporting events to Anaheim. He shared that they hired a consultant to find a potential location, viability, and the kind of sports to be included. He mentioned he would connect with Visit Anaheim.

Mayor Aitken inquired if Visit Anaheim conducted an analysis on traveling sports. She suggested an analysis in collaboration with the Community Services Department to analyze popular sports among residents in Anaheim.

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Council Member Balius suggested 39 Commons as a venue for a sports complex if it is not viable for a commercial product.

Council Member Leon clarified that although the majority of Council supports contacting the State to initiate discussions on the Surplus Land Act, it would not begin negotiations. He clarified that the request is to allow staff to reach out to the State on the property. He expressed his support for community engagement prior to a formal meeting. He inquired when the current lease with the Angels organization expires.

Executive Director of Convention, Sports, and Entertainment Tom Morton confirmed that the current lease expires in 2029 with three three-year optional renewals. He noted that the Angels exercised their first renewal option to 2032. He added that the lease can run until 2038 at their sole discretion.

Council Member Leon emphasized that, for any option, the process is transparent and open to the residents.

Mayor Aitken requested additional information on the City’s top priorities and whether a sports complex was included.

Deputy City Manager White confirmed the item was included as a top priority.

Mayor Aitken inquired about the City Council's next steps on reviewing the economics of sports complexes. Mayor Pro Tem Meeks added that residents commented on sports complexes' flexibility with different sports and thanked Mayor Aitken for her support of the idea.

Council Member Balius requested to include staff operational costs of a sports complex compared to contracting the services.

Assistant City Manager Garcia clarified Council’s direction is to pursue a feasibility study of a sports complex.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks highlighted the importance of a location for a revenue analysis.

Council Member Maahs requested a timeline for community engagement and a potential plan.

Assistant City Manager Garcia reported that staff would contact firms with expertise and Visit Anaheim. He added that community outreach could be part of the study.

In response to Council Member Rubalcava, Assistant City Manager Garcia confirmed that staff can evaluate various options and provide an analysis for each. He shared that staff could provide an analysis on the value of the sports complex, feasibility from a revenue standpoint, and explore location options.

In response to Council Member Rubalcava, Assistant City Manager Garcia reported that the community engagement would be applicable to the sports complex. He shared that staff can conduct the study on the sports complex and community outreach on the Stadium.

Council Member Rubalcava requested that Council hold a discussion following the study and community engagement.

Assistant City Manager Garcia confirmed that for the sports complex study, staff will reach out to firms, partners, and stakeholders. He added that a Request for Proposals and scope of work would be presented to Council for the study.

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Council Member Leon clarified with staff that the sports complex study and community engagement regarding Angels Stadium are separate.

Council Member Kurtz expressed concern with moving forward with a sports complex study ahead of other priorities, including a senior center.

Mayor Aitken acknowledged Council Member Kurtz’s concern and the importance of a senior center.

Council Member Kurtz shared that she met with seniors across the City to discuss their priorities. She requested that staff continue to review options for a senior center.

Council Member Leon requested clarification on how the top priorities list is updated.

Deputy City Manager White explained that the plan can be updated at Council’s discretion and updated accordingly.

Council Member Leon requested that staff highlight the accomplishments of top priorities during the annual updates. He noted that public safety continues to be a priority for the City Council and requested a sub-priority regarding neighborhood safety for the community, business owners, and major corridors. He requested an update on the priority to address blight and improve major corridors and vacant properties that have become public nuisances, and an update on the planning approval process for new businesses.

Mayor Aitken requested information on a potential analysis of vacant properties in the districts.

Director of Economic Development Sergio Ramirez reported that the City commissioned a report from Keyser Marston and Associates on vacancy rates across the City. He explained that it measured the existing buildings for sale but did not capture vacant buildings. He shared that staff can commission a report. He shared that the study covered for-sale and lease properties. He explained that vacant parcels that are not marketed were not captured.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks spoke of the process that was initiated for a senior center and suggested including potential costs and options.

Council Member Balius echoed Council Member Leon’s request for an update on blight and vacant properties on the street.

Director of Planning and Building Heather Allen reported that there are a unique set of residential properties that are abandoned. She shared that staff can compile a list with Code Enforcement data on those properties and provide options on addressing the issues.

Council Member Rubalcava requested to include commercial properties that are not for-sale but are abandoned by property owners. She requested an update on the status of the Economic Development Strategic Plan.

Deputy City Manager White reported that the plan would be presented in the first quarter of the year.

He explained that there are community outreach efforts with stakeholders beginning in January, with a draft to be presented in February or March.

In response to Council Member Rubalcava, Director Ramirez reported that small and large business owners, stakeholders, property owners, brokers, and the development community are included as stakeholders. He noted that the community can provide input at larger meetings.

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Council Member Rubalcava requested that staff share their marketing tools.

Director Ramirez confirmed that staff would work with her office and Council Member Leon’s.

Council Member Leon requested additional information on how the City would address the World Cup. He shared that OCTA and Metrolink have coordinated transit to and from Los Angeles and inquired if the City could capitalize on the efforts. He requested a plan for use of revenue from retired LPMR bonds to secure funding for neighborhoods.

Council Member Balius requested a priority for organizational efficiencies.

Assistant City Manager Garcia shared that the forecasts are a real-time prediction of the City’s future financial situation which is subject to change. He explained that the forecast is based on what happens in the environment and actions taken by the Council. He noted that the conversations are important to continue to focus on the Council’s key priorities and neighborhood issues. He shared that the forecast is staff’s effort to show the potential future financial outlook. He noted that future revenues are not included in the forecast.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Assistant City Manager Garcia explained that the Council can explore depositing the extra funds from the LPMR payoff into the Reserve fund or creating a new fund for neighborhood improvements. He added that the $57 million is based on today’s forecast and does not consider labor contracts for consideration up to 2027.

In response to Mayor Aitken, City Manager Vanderpool explained that the biggest consideration for the forecast are labor costs. He shared that moving forward Council can consider pacing labor costs with market and revenue returns. He added that in consultation with the Finance Department, the reserve numbers should be closer to 20%. He advised a stronger reserve philosophy given the City’s reliance on the Resort as one source of revenue for the City.

Mayor Aitken inquired about the recommended financial percentage for reserves. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that the Government Finance Officers Association recommends two months of operating expenditures, at about 16 to 17%. She noted that for organizations with a heavy reliance on volatile revenues, the amount should be higher.

Council Member Rubalcava acknowledged that previous forecasts anticipated a deficit in 2029.

Assistant City Manager Garcia noted that the forecast anticipated a 5% increase for each labor group through the Five-Year Forecast.

Council Member Rubalcava mentioned that labor costs are significant to properly compensate employees for their work in the City.

Council Member Leon clarified that the City is anticipating $40 million in General Fund revenue in the next five to ten years due to DisneylandForward and OCVIBE.

Assistant City Manager Garcia provided an overview of potential revenue options including a sales tax which requires voter approval, a utility users fee with voter approval, increasing the TOT by 1% with voter approval, an admission tax with voter approval, a parking tax with voter approval, a real estate transfer tax with voter approval, Angel Stadium property, billboard program which can be initiated by the City Council. He continued that other potential revenue options include development impact fees which would be presented in January, Downtown parking fees, naming rights for City City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

properties, a cannabis program, a rideshare company tax which could require voter approval, franchise fees, and former redevelopment properties.

Council Member Rubalcava requested evaluating revenue streams with low impacts on residents.

She expressed opposition to a utility user tax and sales tax. She expressed her support for the naming rights option and rideshare company tax.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks supported the rideshare company tax to generate revenue in the City and connect people to different areas of Anaheim. She expressed her support to move forward with a franchise fee. She requested to evaluate grant opportunities and contact agency partners to evaluate revenue sources to develop.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Assistant City Manager Garcia reported that the rideshare company tax would require voter approval.

Council Member Kurtz requested to explore the real estate transfer tax. Deputy City Manager White reported that the County of Orange charges a tax and a City tax would be in addition to the County’s.

He noted it is not common in Orange County, but a number of cities have implemented it. He explained that the range of fees is in a tiered system and varies by jurisdiction.

Council Member Kurtz expressed her support for the real estate transfer tax and franchise fees. She shared that she was not supportive of billboards and a cannabis program tax. She added that she would require additional information on how a rideshare tax would be used. She supported the development impact fee item that would be presented, noting the City could improve on the fees.

Council Member Leon shared that many residents rely on rideshare services to commute. He requested information on how many residents use rideshare services. Assistant City Manager Garcia reported that staff evaluated the possibility to exempt residents.

In response to Council Member Leon, Director Ramirez reported that there are a total of six large Redevelopment sites. He shared that staff is addressing environmental issues and title issues with some properties. He noted that the priority is underway for the disposition of Redevelopment sites. He noted that there are smaller remnant parcels that the City is in the process of disposing to adjacent property owners or for City use.

In response to Council Member Leon, Assistant City Manager Garcia reported that revenues from the sale of Redevelopment sites are provided to other taxing entities and restricted.

Council Member Leon supported creating a Neighborhood Improvement Fund.

Council Member Balius supported a rideshare tax and franchise fee. He noted the importance of prioritizing development impact fees. He shared that the development impact fees were designed to pay for parks and new facilities. He highlighted staff’s work on securing grant funds for the City. He added that another revenue source is to pay off debt.

Council Member Maahs highlighted the responsibility of paying off debt. She supported a rideshare tax, updating development impact fees, and the video service provider franchise fee. She expressed her interest in exploring billboards and grants in the City and highlighted staff’s work on identifying and securing grants.

In response to Council Member Rubalcava, Assistant City Manager Garcia confirmed the tax is on consumers. He explained that the staff is evaluating whether the tax needs to be voter-approved or City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

completed via an assessment. He reported that the deadline to submit items for the 2026 General Municipal Elections would be August. He confirmed that the tax would require a two-thirds vote, as it would be classified as a special tax.

City Manager Vanderpool summarized that there was consensus on a rideshare tax, franchise fees, and some interest in impact fees.

Mayor Aitken expressed her interest in naming rights for the Anaheim Arena. She added that the development impact fees would be presented in January and the City Council would have a more in- depth discussion on billboards in the future.

Following the conclusion of the Workshop, the City Council proceeded to the Closed Session agenda.

ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION: None
Mayor Aitken noted that following the publication of the agenda, Item Nos. 1 and 2 were added to the Closed Session agenda. She explained that the items appear to be duplicative of an item on the Business Calendar.

MOTION: Mayor Aitken moved to remove Item Nos. 1 and 2 from the Closed Session agenda.

DISCUSSION: Council Member Leon requested clarification on the motion.

Mayor Aitken explained that the items appear to be duplicative of a Business Calendar item and requested that the items be removed to conduct the discussion openly and publicly.

In response to Council Member Leon, Chief Assistant City Attorney Kristin Pelletier explained that the conversation can occur in open session; however, the Council cannot reveal what was discussed during Closed Session. She noted that the City Council can review and approve the appointment in Closed Session or during the public meeting.

Mayor Aitken expressed concern about disclosing items discussed in Closed Session.

Chief Assistant City Attorney Pelletier noted that the Human Resources Director would be required to present the information again. Mayor Aitken expressed concern that the Human Resources Director would need to present the information again when the item could be removed from the Closed Session agenda to prevent disclosure of information discussed in Closed Session.

Chief Assistant City Attorney Pelletier advised that if the City Council represents the item during the open meeting, it could prevent disclosure of the items discussed during Closed Session.

Mayor Aitken shared her intent was to protect the City Council from accidental disclosure and prevent a duplicative presentation. She noted that an additional concern was related to transparency on voting during the open meeting.

Council Member Rubalcava confirmed that the revised agenda was posted in compliance with the Brown Act.

In response to Council Member Rubalcava, Chief Assistant City Attorney Pelletier confirmed that the City Council can agendize items during the meeting and the Mayor can agendize items outside of the meeting. She explained that because the item had been placed on the agenda, it would require a vote to remove it.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Council Member Rubalcava expressed concern about removing the item from Closed Session due to privacy concerns. She noted that the City Council can direct the City Attorney to report on actions from Closed Session.

Chief Assistant City Attorney Pelletier clarified that the contract must be approved during the open meeting. She noted that an appointment can be made in Closed Session and the City Attorney would be required to report it during open session.

Council Member Rubalcava shared that she would not support removing the item from Closed Session. She noted that the item was agendized in compliance with the Brown Act and within the City Manager’s agendizing authority.

City Manager Vanderpool explained that there were personnel concerns raised following the agenda's publication. He added that under his agendizing authority, he included the item on Closed Session.

MOTION: Mayor Aitken moved to remove Item Nos. 1 and 2 from the Closed Session agenda, seconded by Council Member Leon. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES - 3 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon and Maahs); NOES - 4 (Mayor Pro Tem Meeks and Council Members Balius, Rubalcava, and Kurtz). Motion failed.

Mayor Aitken announced that she would recuse herself from Closed Session Item Nos. 1 and 2.

Chief Assistant City Attorney Pelletier confirmed the Mayor’s recusal on Item Nos. 1 and 2.

City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that the recusal would be noted and reflected in the minutes.

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS:

Heather Madrick, Secretary of the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association (AMEA), Executive Board, shared that Police Dispatch is at a critical shortage. She noted that employees worked over 700 hours of mandatory overtime in November. She commented on current vacancies and the extensive recruitment process for dispatchers and training. She noted that dispatch pay for the City is not consistent with the call volumes. She reported that employees deserve fair pay and requested the City Council’s support during labor negotiations.

Ricardo Sauceda, Treasurer of the AMEA, Executive Board, shared that he has served the City since 1993 and highlighted his Anaheim background. He shared Public Works’ struggles to fill vacancies due to employee pay. He shared that it is an honor to serve the community and shared the challenges the labor union is experiencing. He shared that the workforce is underpaid, overworked, and stressed, resulting in a declining work quality. He urged the City Council to invest in its employees and pay a living wage.

Victoria Sauceda expressed her support for the AMEA labor union. She shared that her father and other City employees are underpaid despite their hard work and sacrifices for the community. She urged the City Council to invest in its employees.

Joseph Trevizu requested that the City Council provide AMEA with a fair contract and salary increases. He shared that the Traffic Safety section struggles to retain employees due to low wages.

Rafael Barrios shared his love and service to the Anaheim community. He shared his work managing referrals for the Senior Safety Net Program and Anaheim Contigo. He shared that staff are skilled and ready to continue their work. He thanked the City Council for their work.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Jason Perez, Vice-President of AMEA, provided an overview of the labor negotiations process and employees' requests for higher wages, better benefits, and a better work-life balance. He shared that the proposals presented are driven by members and supported by facts. He highlighted the upcoming developments in the City and the upcoming Olympics, which are supported by City employees. He noted that some City employees meet federal guidelines to provide food and housing assistance to residents. He urged the City Council to support the AMEA contract.

Jonnae Barreras, President of AMEA, reported that the City’s dedicated staff serve the City daily and provide essential services during emergencies and events. She shared that the City struggles to attract qualified candidates and retain employees due to lower wages and a lack of competitive benefits. She shared that many proposals have been rejected despite the proposals’ capability of retaining and attracting employees. She shared that Anaheim wages have been surpassed by other Orange County cities. She urged the City Council to invest in the employees.

Lorenzo Garcia shared his dedicated service to the City and expressed his support of the AMEA contract. He requested that the City Council consider the employees and recognize their hard work.

City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that no electronic public comments were received for the Closed Session agenda.

CLOSED SESSION: At 3:53 p.m., Mayor Aitken recessed the City Council to Closed Session for consideration of the following:

1. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT
(Section 54957 (b)(1) of the California Government Code) Position: Chief of Police
(Mayor Aitken recused herself from Closed Session Item No. 1)

2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
(Subdivision (a) of Section 54957.6 of the California Government Code) Agency Designated Representative: Linda Andal, Director of Human Resources Position: Chief of Police
(Mayor Aitken recused herself from Closed Session Item No. 2)

3. 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 Organization: Anaheim Municipal Employees Association (General, Clerical, and Part-Time Units)

4. 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: International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 47; and IBEW, Local 47 Part-Time Customer Service Employees; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 47 (Professional Management and Part-Time Management Units)
At 5:14 p.m., Mayor Aitken reconvened the Anaheim City Council.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 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
INVOCATION: Chaplain Nathan Zug, Anaheim Police and Fire Mayor Pro Tem Meeks gave thanks to the flag and country that provides opportunities for hopefulness and joy during the holiday season.

FLAG SALUTE: Mayor Pro Tem Natalie Meeks
PRESENTATION: Recognizing Anaheim High School’s Football Team Council Member Leon commended the Anaheim High School Football team for their victory over his alma mater, Magnolia High School. He praised the team for the season and reaching the CIF Semi- Finals. He expressed the Council’s support for the students.

ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA: 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.

City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of fifteen (15) public comments were received electronically prior to 3:00 p.m. related to City Council agenda items and matters within the jurisdiction of the Anaheim City Council. [A final total of fifteen (15) public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official record]. – See Appendix R. Joshua Collins shared his encounter with a homeless mother and her experience with City Net. He shared that City Net could not verify ties to Anaheim despite the children being students at Anaheim schools. He requested additional services for homeless mothers and homeless students. He shared contact information for a homeless individual recovering from brain surgery.

Jessica Avelar-Bruce, Chief Program Officer of City Net, spoke in support of Item No. 15 to continue the Community Care Response Team (CCRT) program. She shared that through CCRT, City Net serves on the frontline as the initial point of engagement into a broader system of care to address homelessness in the City and across the county. She noted that the services meet individuals where they are and divert calls from the Police Department to focus on other public safety calls. She shared that City Net has connected thousands to shelter, housing, and critical services. She thanked the Anaheim Police Department for their partnership ensuring outreach and public safety work together.

She shared that she references the City as a standard for leadership and innovation. She thanked the City Council for their leadership and partnership.

Yvonne De La Torre spoke in opposition regarding the death of Albert Arzola following a confrontation with the Anaheim Police Department. She called for an end to police brutality and demanded that the officers be held accountable and investigated.

Nick Lapating thanked City staff for recommending LAZ parking for Item No. 12. He highlighted the company’s ties to Orange County and Anaheim. He requested the Council’s support for Item No. 12.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Skye requested accountability over the death of Albert Arzola. They shared the community’s negative experiences with the Anaheim Police Department and requested real justice and consequences for the officer involved.

Sean Matsuda called for justice for Albert Arzola. He commented on the Anaheim Police Department’s history with officer-involved shootings. He requested perspective on the situation.

Vern Nelson spoke about the death of Albert Arzola and disputed claims made in the press. He commented on the Police Department’s regular policing in his neighborhood. He urged the new Police Chief to change the culture of the Anaheim Police Department.

Donna Acevedo Nelson commented on the death of Albert Arzola. She shared that she started attending meetings following the death of her son, Joel Acevedo. She shared that the Police Review Board had used a photo of her and her family during a presentation and she stopped attending meetings. She described ongoing policing in her neighborhood towards young children. She mentioned an incident with a mother who was involved in an altercation with Anaheim Police and despite complaints, the same practices continue. She argued that the new Police Chief should be aware of the concerns regarding the gang unit.

Jose Duran, President of the Anaheim Police Association, acknowledged the leadership of Police Chief Rick Armendariz. On behalf of the Anaheim Police Association, he expressed its appreciation for his service. He expressed the Association’s support of Manny Cid as the next Police Chief, highlighting his experience as a current Police Chief and his reputation in the community he represents. He noted that his leadership style and vision align with Anaheim’s values and direction.

He encouraged the City Council’s support for Item No. 19.

Gaby Sutter , Executive Director of the Anaheim Police Association, thanked the City for its thoughtful recruitment process and the appointment of Manuel Cid as the Chief of Police.

Tyler Collins, owner of Healthcare Services and Lighthouse Treatment Centers (Anaheim Lighthouse), thanked the City for its partnership. He noted that the Lighthouse has been operating for 25 years, helping individuals recover from addiction through all levels of care, through detox, residential treatment and outpatient aftercare for its 111-bed licensed facility. He highlighted the partnership with the Anaheim Police Department, the HALO Team, and ACCESS team to accept 130 scholarships into its program. He thanked the City for the opportunity to continue serving the community.

Mark Richard Daniels commented on the officer-involved shooting. He shared that he finds the incident disturbing and recalled the 2012 death of Joel Acevedo and Manuel Diaz. He reported that the shooting set back community-police relations by years. He added that the City would not provide a satisfactory explanation for the incident.

Ruben Greg Soto commented on his interactions with various police departments and his personal experiences with the legal system.

Veronica Mejia shared that her daughter, Mia Mejia, was the victim of senseless bullying, resulting in her taking her life on March 17, 2025. She shared that her daughter was kind and wrote about kindness. She shared that the Anaheim Union High School District has not provided her daughter’s friends with resources despite her requests. She requested that the City do more for the youth and parents and offer more anti-bullying and suicide prevention services.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Bianca Garcia shared that Mia Mejia was her family member. She reported that suicide is the second leading cause of death in children ages 10 to 14. She shared that suicide is an epidemic. She stated that her family is living every parent’s worst fear and continues to share Mia’s story with the hope that it saves lives and families from the pain. She requested more City events that focus on suicide prevention and that the City do more for its youth and parents.

Matthew Duncan provided an update on an incident involving animal abuse in Anaheim. He shared that the abuser was interviewed by the Anaheim Police Department and was arrested and facing felony charges. He shared that the animal is being cared for by OC Animal Care and would be available for adoption.

Jennifer Gies provided an update on the Hebron municipality and a twinning agreement with the municipality of Preston in the United Kingdom. She shared that the twinning agreement represents a strategic step forward to expand collaboration and shared human values. She noted that the partnership focuses on cultural, social, educational, youth, heritage, and tourism cooperation, including exchange of expertise, joint projects, youth programs, and mutual visits. She urged the City Council to agendize a sister city agreement with Al Khalil.

Paul Hyek recommended that The Illumination Foundation and other organizations open walk-in storefronts for the homeless. He mentioned an incident with the Fullerton Police Department and an autistic individual who was shot.

Vance Dizney followed up on his previous comments and on government shutdowns. He shared a comic book story and noted that the story is blended with political commentary and fictional narratives.

Juniper Talwani commented on the police response following the death of Albert Arzola. They referenced the 2012 deaths of Joel Acevedo and Manuel Diaz. They accused the City Council of ignoring families and community voices and being complicit to the police’s actions. They requested that the officers be held accountable.

Mayor called for decorum in the Chamber and warned that if disruptions continued, the City Council would need to take a brief recess.

The City Council took a brief recess at 6:20 p.m. and reconvened at 6:29 p.m.

Bryan Kaye shared that the public looks up to the City Council. He requested that the City Council hold the officer and the Police Department accountable.

Paul Sanford thanked the City Council for the Down Payment Assistance Funding for workers in the Resort District. He applauded the City Council’s efforts and Council Member Kurtz, and Visit Anaheim CEO Mike Waterman. He requested adequate funding for Down Payment Assistance to assist families with paying off homes and supporting generational wealth. He shared the support of other businesses in those efforts.

Marc Herbert commented on the death of Albert Arzola. He commented that the Anaheim Police Association did not comment on the incident. He commented on the costs for Fire Station No. 12 outlined in Item No. 8 and the Festival project. He reported that the City is experiencing a lack of affordable housing, noting the $2.5 million commitment would not cover the costs of units needed.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS:

Council Member Kurtz spoke of the officer-involved shooting resulting in a fatality over the weekend on Philadelphia Street. She shared that her heart is with the family, neighbors, officers, and everyone impacted by the incident. She explained that in any situation, any loss of life in the City is a tragedy.

She shared that the Police Department works in the best interest of public safety and faces difficult situations. She reported that with any incident, there will be a thorough and independent review by the Orange County District Attorney, the Office of Independent Review, the City’s Independent Police Oversight Consultant, and the Anaheim Police Department’s Major Incidents Review team. She reported that the Police team will hold a community meeting to share information. She shared that the City pledges safety and transparency for neighborhoods, and a commitment to providing both moving forward. Council Member Kurtz also shared that the Anaheim Hotel invited residents of the Golden Skies Mobile Home Park to have Thanksgiving dinner at the hotel. She highlighted the Ponderosa Tree Lighting event and thanked the Madres Comunidad Ponderosa for organizing the event. She shared that there were over 300 adults and children at the event. Santa was at the event, and Project S.A.Y offered face painting. Council Member Kurtz highlighted the Katella High School Dance Team for representing Anaheim at the San Clemente High School Dance Showcase. She shared that the team danced their heart out and made Anaheim proud.

Council Member Maahs reported that she and her team joined the YMCA of Anaheim on Thanksgiving morning for the Y Gives Thanks meal distribution at the Grove. She shared that the event was inspired by the legacy of Frank Garcia and brought community partners, local leaders, and residents to support families in need. She added that with the help of over 100 volunteers, over 2,000 Thanksgiving meals were distributed through the drive-through. She shared that she was proud to sponsor the event and thanked the YMCA team for their leadership and commitment to the community. Council Member Maahs reported that on Wednesday, December 3rd, she joined families at Angel Stadium for the annual Angels Kids Holiday Party. She shared that for more than a decade, the event has brought joy to local kids, and this year the Angels Baseball Foundation partnered with over 10 community organizations to welcome more than 500 children. She added that the kids played with real snow in the outfield, made crafts and cookies, met Santa, enjoyed a warm meal, chose a toy, and rode a train around the field. She thanked the Angels Baseball Foundation for their continued support of Anaheim families and for continuing the tradition. Council Member Maahs shared that on Saturday, December 6th, she had the opportunity to attend TACA’s (The Autism Community in Action) sensory-friendly holiday celebration in District 5. She added that it was a welcoming, inclusive event for the Autistic community, where families could enjoy the season. She shared that families had the chance to meet Santa in an environment that felt comfortable for them. She noted that organizations attended and shared unique programs and resources that support families. She thanked TACA’s Southern California Outreach Coordinator, Simran Garcia for the invitation and looks forward to working with Ms. Garcia to continue building a City that embraces people and families of all abilities.

Council Member Maahs thanked Neighborhood Services staff for organizing more than 30 neighborhood holiday celebrations. She shared that the events bring families together in their neighborhoods, providing toys and refreshments for children to enjoy. She noted that the toys are collected by the Anaheim Fire & Rescue. Council Member Maahs thanked her friend Bob Sanchez for helping her find Santa in the North Pole. She requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of Mia Leah Mejia.

Council Member Leon shared that he was honored to support Frank Garcia at the Season of Thanks event. He reported that hundreds of families joined Savanna High School to ensure that families could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with dignity during the holiday season. He shared that the event is a powerful reminder of Anaheim’s heart and thanked everyone who supported the event. Council Member Leon extended his appreciation to Assemblymember Avelino Valencia and Speaker of the City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Assembly Robert Rivas for securing $1.5 million in grant funds for Catholic Charities of Orange County. He shared that the funds will help expand trusted local immigration-related services in Orange County, to allow more families to seek legal assistance and resources. Council Member Leon reported that the Anaheim Tech Scholars program provided laptops or tablets to 20 students. He shared that as a previous recipient of the scholarship, it was meaningful to help today’s young leaders receive the tools that helped him pursue his own goals. He thanked Mayor Aitken, Council Member Maahs, and his Council colleagues, who approved the program’s return, and thanked the sponsors and supporters of the program for investing in the potential of Anaheim youth. He extended his congratulations to the 2025 cohort of Tech Scholars. Council Member Leon announced that the holiday season is in full swing, from the tree lighting at Twila Reid Park to the tree lighting at City Hall.

He thanked everyone who helped organize the events and Council Member Balius, who helped make the tree lighting a success. Council Member Leon highlighted the Shop with a Cop event with the Orange County Family Justice Center, for holiday shopping at Target. He extended his appreciation to everyone who helped make the season brighter for families in need. He thanked the SBDC (Small Business Development Centers) team and the Economic Development Department for Small Business Saturday. He shared that the event supports local businesses and entrepreneurs in making their dreams a reality. Council Member Leon requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of Public Works employee Gilbert Aviña. He shared that Gilbert was born and raised in Anaheim, proudly served the Public Works Department for more than 30 years, and was President of the Anaheim Car Club. He added that Gilbert loved the City and attended community events, car shows, and family gatherings to lend a hand. He shared that he was a devoted husband to his wife, Theresa, a proud father, step-father, and proud grandfather to his 13 grandkids. He extended his condolences to the Aviña family and the Anaheim Car Club family. Council Member Leon acknowledged recent events, adding that any loss of life is a tragedy. He shared that his thoughts are with all individuals involved and ensured that the City is working towards continuing to build positive relations with officers and the community.

Council Member Rubalcava recognized lifelong resident, Roberta Cotner, for her recent 98th birthday.

She shared that she would be requesting a recognition for Ms. Cotner for her impact on the Anaheim community. Council Member Rubalcava recognized Gilbert Aviña for his contributions to the City. She shared that he was a City employee, an Anaheim High School alumnus, and part of the Anaheim Car Club. She also requested to adjourn the meeting in Mr. Aviña’s memory. She thanked his grandchildren for attending the meeting and expressed her condolences to his wife, Theresa.

Council Member Balius shared that palm trees, additional fences, and additional safety measures for traffic have been implemented on Beach Boulevard to help alleviate traffic and congestion. He thanked City staff for their work and highlighted the monument sign installed on Beach Boulevard.

Council Member Balius thanked the sponsors, volunteers, and the West Anaheim organization for the Twila Reid Tree Lighting event.

Mayor Aitken highlighted the grand opening of the Asian Americans Advancing Justice So Cal’s new Orange County headquarters, located in the City. She shared that the new hub would provide legal services, community support, and community space to help families, immigrants, domestic violence survivors, and low-income residents access essential services. Mayor Aitken announced that she attended the annual Tech Scholars event and thanked Council Member Leon for his support of the program. She highlighted the Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting event held at City Hall. She shared that the event began in 1995 with former Mayor Frank Feldhaus and Sally Feldhaus, who continued to support the event. She thanked the student choirs from the Anaheim Union High School District and City staff for their work organizing the event. Mayor Aitken extended her condolences to the family, neighborhood, and those affected by the events that transpired over the weekend. She shared that the City will work together to support the community and move forward in a thoughtful and City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

respectful manner. She thanked the speakers who attended the meeting and expressed their thoughts.

Council Member Rubalcava requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of City of Alhambra Police Officer Alec Sanders, who passed away on November 21st, following a vehicle pursuit with a suspect.

CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE:

City Manager Vanderpool highlighted the new Stadium Landing industrial campus near OCVIBE. He shared that as part of the effort to bring advanced manufacturing and other high-value jobs to the City, the development was featured in a 30-second commercial during Sunday’s national broadcast of the Lott Trophy awards. He added that the commercial was no cost to the City and was produced by the Economic Development Department and the City’s Communications team. City Manager Vanderpool provided an update on Angel Stadium. He reported that lab testing is underway, with results expected in four to six weeks. He added that once testing is complete, the findings would be internally reviewed and analyzed. He shared that the next step would be to hire an engineering firm for a final assessment based on the testing and results, with a final assessment expected in mid- 2026.

CONSENT CALENDAR: At 7:03 p.m., the Consent Calendar was considered with Council Member Kurtz pulling Item Nos. 7 and 18, Council Member Maahs pulling Item Nos. 15 and 17, Council Member Balius puling Item No. 6, Mayor Pro Tem Meeks pulling Item No. 8, and Council Member Leon pulling Item No. 16.

MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks 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 Leon.

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 Older Adults Commission meeting of September 18, 2025 and the Public Utilities Board meeting of October 22, 2025.

2. Approve certificates recognizing the retirement of Anaheim Union High School District’s Superintendent Michael Matsuda; Anaheim High School’s Girls Volleyball Team for competing in CIF-SS Finals and the Girls Flag Football Varsity Team for winning the CIF-SS Division 5 Championship; Katella High School’s Spirit Squad for their collection of food and clothing for the community; and Peggy Au, Controller, on her retirement from the City of Anaheim.

3. Approve the list of recurring annual recognitions for calendar year 2026.

4. Authorize the issuance of Purchase Order No. 515-407496 to PRE Sales, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $108,000 plus applicable sales tax, for the purchase of banquet tables for the Anaheim Convention Center; and authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute all necessary contractual documents in accordance with Invitation for Bids #9866.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

5. Approve Amendment Number One (1) to Master Agreement Contract No. 106-498228 with Greentech Landscape, Inc. authorizing a month-to-month extension basis for a maximum of three months, in a monthly amount not to exceed $36,792.74 for a total of $110,378.22, inclusive of a 20% contingency (resulting in an amended cumulative contract amount not to exceed $760,568.95) for landscape maintenance serving the East Service Areas; approve Amendment Number One (1) to Master Agreement Contract No. 106-498291 with Parkwood Landscape Maintenance, Inc. authorizing a month-to-month extension basis for a maximum of three months, in a monthly amount not to exceed $71,854.23 for a total of $258,675.24, inclusive of a 20% contingency (resulting in an amended cumulative contract amount not to exceed $1,317,406.58) for landscape maintenance serving the North Central and Central Service Areas; and authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute all necessary contractual documents.

9. Approve the Cooperative Agreement (Mutual Aid) with the City of Corona authorizing continued shared emergency response capability for incidents occurring along the jurisdictional boundary, including the State Route 91 corridor and the Wildland Urban Interface, for a five year term; and authorize the Fire Chief, or designee, to execute the agreement and any related documents necessary to implement its provisions.

10. Approve a Master Services Agreement with Ascend Analytics LLC for energy resource portfolio production cost modeling software services for a five year term with up to five one- year optional extensions, in an amount not to exceed $956,005 for the initial term and an annual not to exceed cost of $182,209 for the first extension with an annual 4% escalator for remaining extensions, plus a 15% contingency for as-needed extra services; and authorize the Public Utilities General Manager, or designee, to execute the agreement and all related or implementing documents, including cost-neutral amendments, assignments, and documents contemplated by the agreement, and to take all actions necessary or advisable to implement and administer the agreement.

11. Approve four Professional Services Agreements for on-call wayfinding and banner signage design, fabrication, and installation consulting services to support current and future economic development activities each for a three year term (December 9, 2025 through December 8, 2028) with two one-year optional extensions; and authorize the Director of Economic Development, or designee, to execute, implement, and administer the agreements [Outdoor Dimensions LLC, in an amount not to exceed $200,000; Sign Age Identity Systems, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $200,000; Graphics MFG, in an amount to exceed $150,000; and Digital Enterprises, Inc. dba Sir Speedy Printing and Signs, in an amount not to exceed $50,000].

12. Approve a Parking Garage Management Agreement, in substantial form, with LAZ Parking California, LLC, in an initial annual amount not to exceed $438,324, for the management of Car Parks 2, 3, 5, and 6 for a two year term with eight one-year optional renewals; authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute and administer the agreement; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreements, so long as the changes are determined to be de minimis by the City Attorney’s Office.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

13. Approve the Community Development Block Grant Subrecipient Agreement with Orange County Fair Housing Council, in substantial form, in the amount of $135,000, to implement the Anaheim Fair Housing Program and offer fair housing services for an initial 18-month term from January 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 with three one-year optional renewals for a total maximum compensation amount not to exceed $405,000; authorize the Housing & Community Development Director, or designee, to execute all agreements, attachments, and other documents necessary to implement and administer the program provided that the maximum compensation authority is not increased; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreements, so long as the changes are determined to be de minimis by the City Attorney’s Office.

14. Approve subrecipient agreement with Hope House Inc., in substantial form, in the amount of $365,000 for a one year term, with one one-year optional renewal, for a maximum compensation amount not to exceed $730,000 for residential treatment service; approve subrecipient agreement with Healthcare Services, Inc., dba Anaheim Lighthouse, in substantial form, in the amount of $500,000 for a one year term, with one one-year optional renewal, for a maximum compensation amount not to exceed $1,000,000 for residential treatment services; authorize the Housing and Community Development Director, or designee, to execute all agreements and other documents necessary to implement and administer the subrecipient agreements as long as the maximum compensation does not increase; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreements, so long as the changes are determined to be de minimis by the City Attorney’s Office.

BUSINESS CALENDAR:

6. Award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder, Developers General Contracting, Inc., in the amount of $1,376,988 plus a 10% contingency, for the Brookhurst Park Splash Pad Project; determine the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Class 1, Section 15301(a)(c)(e) 2(A)(B) (Existing Facilities), Class 3, Section 15303(d)(e) (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), and Class 4, Section 15304(b)(f) (Minor Alterations to Land) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations; authorize the Director of Public Works to execute the contract and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the contract; and authorize the Finance Director to execute the Escrow Agreement pertaining to contract retentions.

Director of Public Works Rudy Emami reported that the Brookhurst Splash Pad Project would transform an underused portion of the park into the City’s third splash pad, featuring round spray elements, mechanical building, seating, concrete pathway, and three shade structures. He added that the work would be adjacent to the existing moonscape playground and is planned for completion before next summer. He reported that the City received one bid from Developers General Contracting for $1.376 million, consistent with the engineer’s estimate and available funding. He shared that given the timeline and no other responsive bids, staff recommends awarding the contract rather than readvertising. He added that construction is set to begin in early 2026 and conclude in the second quarter of 2026.

Director of Community Services Sjany Larson-Cash highlighted that the new splash pad would be located in an underutilized area of Brookhurst Park adjacent to the playground. She reported that the City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

improvements will include ground spray elements, mechanical building seating, concrete pathway, shade structures and other associated work. She noted that once completed, it would be the City's third splash pad, and the first one to be located in West Anaheim. She noted that funding for the project is budgeted in the Community Services Department budget from Community Development Block Grant funds and Development Impact Fees.

DISCUSSION: Council Member Balius shared the receives emails from District 1 residents on a splash pad. He noted that the splash pad is the first for West Anaheim. He highlighted the splash pad’s benefits to residents throughout Districts 1, 2, and 3.

MOTION: Council Member Balius moved to award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder, Developers General Contracting, Inc., in the amount of $1,376,988 plus a 10% contingency, for the Brookhurst Park Splash Pad Project; determine the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Class 1, Section 15301(a)(c)(e) 2(A)(B) (Existing Facilities), Class 3, Section 15303(d)(e) (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), and Class 4, Section 15304(b)(f) (Minor Alterations to Land) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations; authorize the Director of Public Works to execute the contract and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the contract; and authorize the Finance Director to execute the Escrow Agreement pertaining to contract retentions.

DISCUSSION: Council Member Leon commended staff on their work and shared the benefits the splash pad would have for families in West Anaheim.

MOTION: Council Member Balius moved to award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder, Developers General Contracting, Inc., in the amount of $1,376,988 plus a 10% contingency, for the Brookhurst Park Splash Pad Project; determine the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Class 1, Section 15301(a)(c)(e) 2(A)(B) (Existing Facilities), Class 3, Section 15303(d)(e) (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), and Class 4, Section 15304(b)(f) (Minor Alterations to Land) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations; authorize the Director of Public Works to execute the contract and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the contract; and authorize the Finance Director to execute the Escrow Agreement pertaining to contract retentions, seconded by Council Member Leon.

ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0. Motion carried.

7. Approve an agreement, in substantial form, with PBLA Engineering, Inc., in the amount of $698,766 plus a 10% contingency, for professional design services for the Boysen Park Renovation Project – Phase 2; authorize the Director of Community Services, or designee, to execute the agreement and related documents and take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement; authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreement, as determined by the City Attorney's Office; and determine that the action is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15306 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations (Information Collection).

Director Larson-Cash reported that Boysen Park is more than 60 years old and used by the community for baseball, softball, soccer, exercise, playground, play and more. She shared that the park is approximately 24 acres and has not seen significant improvements in over 30 years. She noted that staff have engaged with the community for their feedback on the revitalization of the park.

She reported that the efforts resulted in a Community and Vision Master Plan, which includes sports City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

fields, upgrades, new restrooms, a skate park, additional parking, lighting, covered picnic areas, walking paths, basketball courts, fitness equipment and more. She stated that Community Services is realizing the project in phases, with Phase One in progress with the development of a new skate park that is anticipated to be completed in late 2026. She reported that Phase Two encompasses the northern four and a half acre section of the park along Vermont Street. She added that improvements would include an expanded parking lot, new restroom, basketball courts, new and expanded playground, shaded picnic areas, walking paths and more. She reported that moving forward with the master plan, an RFP was issued in October for design services, including design development, construction documents and construction administration for phase two of the park renovation. She announced that responses were received from seven firms and staff conducted interviews with the two top-rated firms. She reported that the proposal by PBLA was found to best meet the requirements of the RFP and was deemed to be the most qualified. She noted that PBLA has over 15 years of experience designing public spaces with the qualifications to design and develop documents that will fulfill the Community Vision and Master Plan.

DISCUSSION: Council Member Kurtz thanked staff, particularly Parks Manager JJ Jimenez for his availability to the public. She highlighted the community’s excitement over the park and the need for the community.

MOTION: Council Member Kurtz moved to approve an agreement, in substantial form, with PBLA Engineering, Inc., in the amount of $698,766 plus a 10% contingency, for professional design services for the Boysen Park Renovation Project – Phase 2; authorize the Director of Community Services, or designee, to execute the agreement and related documents and take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement; authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreement, as determined by the City Attorney's Office; and determine that the action is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15306 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations (Information Collection), seconded by Council Member Balius. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0. Motion carried.

8. Approve the First Amendment to Agreement with COAR Design Group to increase the compensation by $258,000 plus a 15% contingency to provide additional design and construction management services for the Fire Station 12 Project; authorize the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute the First Amendment and related documents and to take the necessary, required, or advisable actions to implement and administer the amended agreement; and amend the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Anaheim Fire & Rescue budget by $296,700 in the Platinum Triangle Development Impact Fees Fund.

DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks requested clarification on the scope of the contract.

Director Emami clarified that the project originally began as a Design-Build; however, due to property rights with Angels Baseball, the project was bifurcated. He noted that staff returned to Council with a separate agreement with the contractor to provide construction support services. He explained that the contractor exceeded their budget due to change order requests and a design feature that was inadvertently omitted from the auxiliary building.

In response to Mayor Pro Tem Meeks, Director Emami explained that the Construction Services Manager can reject the change order request or negotiate them down. He reported that the City is trying to facilitate the project in a low-bid environment and ensure that the contract is maintained.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks added that the contractor is being held accountable and would deliver the building at a lower price than the next lowest bid.

MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to approve the First Amendment to Agreement with COAR Design Group to increase the compensation by $258,000 plus a 15% contingency to provide additional design and construction management services for the Fire Station 12 Project; authorize the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute the First Amendment and related documents and to take the necessary, required, or advisable actions to implement and administer the amended agreement; and amend the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Anaheim Fire & Rescue budget by $296,700 in the Platinum Triangle Development Impact Fees Fund.

Council Member Balius requested additional information on the project delays.

Construction Services Manager Raul Garcia reported that there would be a couple months of delays, with the project scheduled to be delivered in September 2026. He noted that the City’s realistic estimate is November.

MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to approve the First Amendment to Agreement with COAR Design Group to increase the compensation by $258,000 plus a 15% contingency to provide additional design and construction management services for the Fire Station 12 Project; authorize the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute the First Amendment and related documents and to take the necessary, required, or advisable actions to implement and administer the amended agreement; and amend the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Anaheim Fire & Rescue budget by $296,700 in the Platinum Triangle Development Impact Fees Fund, 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.

15. Approve the Community Care Response Team (CCRT) Homeless Services Subrecipient Agreement with Kingdom Causes, Inc., dba City Net, with maximum compensation authority in the amount of $6,850,000 to provide street outreach and homeless intervention services for a two year term commencing January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2027; and authorize the Housing & Community Development Department Director, or designee, to execute the agreement and other documents necessary to implement and administer the program provided that the maximum compensation authority is not increased.

Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development Sandra Lozeau reported that the Anaheim System of Care has grown over the past 10-plus years to the robust village of partners today. She attributed the success of the program to Citywide departments and employees, external agencies, and 200-plus service providers. She shared that Anaheim participates in the federally required Point- In-Time Count (PIT), led by Orange County, which would take place on January 28, and several City staff will be participating to ensure everyone gets counted. She reported that the last PIT count in January 2024 showed 1,417 homeless, with 601 unsheltered on the streets and 816 sheltered. She noted that although Anaheim is the largest city in the county, it did not have the largest unsheltered population, and had the most people sheltered in the region. She stated that the service provider for the Community Care Response Team (CCRT), led by City Net, requests an additional two years to service Anaheim for a total of $6.85 million. She reported that the City’s pathway to home starts with prevention, moves to outreach, shelter, rapid rehousing and permanent housing. She shared that although City Net has been a tremendous, robust partner throughout many components of Anaheim’s system of care, especially in the pathway home, their main focus is being the front door for people into our system of care. She stated that currently, CCRT provides a full spectrum of services helping City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

the most vulnerable on the street stabilize, recover and transition into safe housing. She shared that they are providing outreach on the streets, and providing transportation off the streets, assessing them through navigating the City’s housing options, which includes getting documents ready, such as obtaining identification or a birth certificate, to prepare for when housing becomes available. She added that they provide behavioral and recuperative health care support, if needed, along with pet boarding care while people are healing. She noted that CCRT also assists with relocating and reuniting people with their families. She reported that CCRT takes on “Whatever It Takes” approach, which includes setting aside funding for any means, including sheltering people quickly and providing subsidies to help prevent people from falling into homelessness. She highlighted their role in helping Anaheim with high-priority needs such as motel relocations, outreach and cleanup projects, emergency responses and helping to house people in the City’s new housing developments. She reported that CCRT also responds to calls for service, which originally focused on calls from the Police Department, but has grown to include community calls over the years. She noted that they are integrated into the City’s data and metrics, that focuses on hot spots and top people in need. She added that in preparation of amending the contract, staff reviewed calls for service from the Police Department and CCRT. She reported that since January 2021, CCRT handled over 84,000 calls that would have otherwise fallen to the Police to respond. She noted a reduction in calls from Police and CCRT. She explained that the City increased the HALO teams, and by reviewing the thousands of calls, it was apparent that the CCRT response has also changed. She shared that to adapt the next contract, the City would be working more strategically and focus on efforts to work more closely with the HALO teams to continue to address hot spots, and respond to community calls and push for more contacts and outreach to move more people off the streets. She explained that they are shifting away from the seven-day-a-week, 14-hour shifts with only two to three teams each field day to five days a week, 12 and a half-hour shifts with six to eight teams in the field each day. She noted it will allow three to four teams strictly dedicated to the increased HALO teams and create three to four teams strictly dedicated to the community needs. She added that there would be overtime included for special needs on the weekends for freeway cleanups or special events. She noted that the new model would provide direct coordination with the HALO, tourism, and patrol teams. She added that the City also requested more access to basic client information, which required a change in how we request the release of information to help connect people to the system more quickly. She noted that it allows for deeper conversations related to the specific needs of the clients that CCRT is serving.

She added that the proposed agreement would continue to have oversight and accountability with CCRT, continuing to partner with the City’s Task Force and better coordination in the field by having teams with police officers. She reported that the contract is reimbursement-based and City Net is paid only after City staff verify services are rendered and proper documentation is obtained. She added that the City has staff that reviews all invoices against State and federal regulations to ensure eligible costs, proper backup documentation and alignment with the services. She reported that staff regularly monitor for the data entered into the region's Homeless Management Information System, or HMIs and review quarterly and annual reports. She noted that CCRT, this past year, was responsible for 68% of people sheltered in the entire county. She highlighted the City’s partners, including The Salvation Army shelter, which has the highest housing rate at 28% when the national average is 16%.

She added that the more our system flows, the more people CCRT brings in for assistance. She shared that in addition to working closely with the Anaheim Police Department, the City is looking to create a centralized dispatching, where everyone, including the community, can call one number, and the Police Department will have specialized dispatchers to triage which teams respond to the homeless calls. She noted it will help the City in those instances where City staff, businesses, and residents will no longer have to figure out who they should call. It would create one call, one connection approach with the new teams integrated together, and help with the right response, and the flexibility and safety support needed to ensure resources are provided and any safety concerns are addressed. She shared a story about a gentleman who was an older adult living on the streets initially and started to engage with CCRT in 2022. She noted that he continued contact and trust City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

building with the CCRT team, helping to navigate him through his health care and hospitalization. She added that CCRT connected him into the City’s pathway home, working with the housing team to get a match to a housing voucher and finding resources to help with move in assistance. She shared that earlier this year, he received his keys to his new home. She noted that CCRT is not only integrated into the City’s system of care, but embraces the system, and therefore is able to house people from the street. She reported that it used to be something rare just a few years ago, and is now becoming a regular part of the City’s system, helping more people off the street permanently.

DISCUSSION: Council Member Maahs shared that she went on a ride-along with Sgt. Cooper to witness City Net’s work firsthand. She inquired about the success markers for the contract.

Deputy Director Lozeau reported that there are requirements by the funding sources, monitoring of the HMI system, and feedback from the community.

Council Member Maahs shared her support of a central number for individuals to call.

MOTION: Council Member Maahs moved to approve the Community Care Response Team (CCRT) Homeless Services Subrecipient Agreement with Kingdom Causes, Inc., dba City Net, with maximum compensation authority in the amount of $6,850,000 to provide street outreach and homeless intervention services for a two year term commencing January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2027; and authorize the Housing & Community Development Department Director, or designee, to execute the agreement and other documents necessary to implement and administer the program provided that the maximum compensation authority is not increased, seconded by Council Member Rubalcava.

DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks echoed her support for a central number for individuals to call.

She expressed concern about how the system would work operationally with the vacancies in Dispatch. She inquired if staff are evaluating opportunities for supplemental dispatch or if CCRT would be capable of taking some lower emergency calls.

Director of Housing and Community Development Grace Ruiz-Stepter explained that the appointment of the new Chief of Police would factor into decision-making for Dispatch staffing. She noted that currently, following feedback from the Council and the community, staff have been working with CCRT on increased training and responses for their current line. She added that CCRT is taking the initiative to connect calls and make referrals to be more responsive in the current system of care.

In response to Mayor Pro Tem Meeks, Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that the CCRT hotline would remain active until the replacement line is operational. Sgt. Cooper clarified that 24/7 coverage for homeless needs would continue. She explained that the Police Department is training patrol officers to understand how patrol officers work and handle calls that come in. He noted that over 40 officers have attended training. He explained that the service hours were cut due to the calls for service and the need existing during the week. He added that during the week is the best opportunity to help individuals find shelter off the street, with activity occurring between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. He reported that funding was included for overtime hours if a call comes in over the weekend.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks inquired if the calls would be reported as a crime. Sgt. Cooper explained that weekend calls would be sent to the police, and the response would depend on the crime. He reported that the Police Department would keep patrol officers available to respond to active crimes.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks requested to monitor the number of calls outside of operating hours during the contract and make adjustments as needed. Sgt. Cooper confirmed that if calls were not critical, a response would be sent the next day.

Council Member Balius requested additional clarification on how the services would improve homelessness in District 1.

Director Ruiz-Stepter shared that CCRT and the homeless system of care is a model that continue to serve the needs of the community. She explained that homelessness is an ongoing issue, and CCRT serves to address those issues in the community in collaboration with the Police Department. She explained that CCRT is critical to how the City responds. Sgt. Cooper explained that following a federal injunction, the CCRT provides an outreach component for enforcement efforts. He highlighted the Police Department’s efforts but noted that the Police are unable to provide additional services other than outreach. He explained that City Net fills the gap for the Police Department.

In response to Council Member Balius, Deputy Director Lozeau noted that the system of care provides additional beds for mental health and substance use disorder. She reported that it is not embedded into the contract; however, there are resources and counselors available with connections to the City’s system of care. She shared that the system could always use more beds; however, the City Council has prioritized adding to the system of care. She noted the City Council approved additional treatment beds through Anaheim Lighthouse. She added that if additional funding is recognized, staff would return to Council.

Council Member Balius echoed Mayor Pro Tem Meeks’ concerns about the service hours.

Council Member Leon thanked the Housing and Community Development Department, the CCRT, and Sgt. Cooper for their work. He requested a breakdown of the contract amount and how the funds would be spent.

Deputy Director Lozeau noted that the previous contract exceeded $8 million and the proposed contract reduces those costs. She added that staff have worked with City Net, who have additional funding through CalAIM. She noted that the majority of the costs are dedicated to labor. She added that a small cost is dedicated to dispatching.

In response to Council Member Leon, Sgt. Cooper explained that each call is different. He noted most of the calls are driven by Police contact and then CCRT would supplement the initial offer of resources. He added if there is enforcement, individuals are still connected to resources through CCRT. He shared that CCRT provides the resources and point of contact to allow officers to get back on the street. Director Ruiz-Stepter added that under the proposed model, CCRT would be working with the HALO team and responding to the Police and community calls.

In response to Council Member Leon, Deputy Director Lozeau explained that City Net provides their services and bills the City the following month. She reported that staff evaluate the invoices and determine eligible costs under different sources. She noted that staff see the services that are being provided. She added that staff follow up with The Salvation Army for a report on the intake of individuals.

Council Member Leon highlighted the teamwork and collaboration amongst groups. He noted that not all unhoused individuals are criminals. He noted that addressing homelessness and helping people work together. He added that the goal is to have homeless individuals succeed and be productive members of the community and society.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Council Member Kurtz expressed concern about the modified service hours.

Deputy Director Lozeau reported that current service calls drop after 7:30 p.m. and a drop off on Sundays. She noted there are a bit of calls on Saturdays, which is why overtime was included. She added that police officers are trained to address situations and provide connections, resources and access to The Salvation Army. She noted that intake for certain recovery facilities is conducted on the weekends. She shared that by doubling the resources during the week, the goal is that the need decreases on the weekends. She added that there is room in the contract to make modifications.

Council Member Kurtz thanked staff for their work.

Council member Rubalcava expressed her support for the item. She requested proactivity in the community to address issues instead of waiting for calls. She requested that staff come back to the Council for policy direction when needed.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that staff is anticipating funding for Homeless Housing and Prevention Program (HHAP) from 2026 and 2027. She noted that with funding changes to HHAP-6, it has allowed staff to evaluate different sources of funding for the homeless system of care. She reported that staff would be paying for outreach with HHAP and sheltering with General Fund dollars. She confirmed that funding for HHAP-7 is anticipated but could not confirm funding for future years.

Mayor Aitken requested that staff collect data and update the presentation for the Council’s use to advocate for funding to State partners.

In response to Council Member Maahs, Deputy Director Lozeau shared that the average number of touches is 10 to 20, depending on the length of time the individual has spent on the streets. She shared that the ACCESS program has helped with connecting individuals to resources. Sgt. Cooper added that the model moving forward is that the next contact could be the contact where the individual seeks the resources.

MOTION: Council Member Maahs moved to approve the Community Care Response Team (CCRT) Homeless Services Subrecipient Agreement with Kingdom Causes, Inc., dba City Net, with maximum compensation authority in the amount of $6,850,000 to provide street outreach and homeless intervention services for a two year term commencing January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2027; and authorize the Housing & Community Development Department Director, or designee, to execute the agreement and other documents necessary to implement and administer the program provided that the maximum compensation authority is not increased, 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.

16. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-098 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM ratifying and approving the actions of the Anaheim Director of Public Works, or designee, in submitting a grant application on behalf of the City of Anaheim to the California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) for the LA28 Transit and Mobility Plan and, authorizing the acceptance of such grant 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 [Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Award in the amount of $425,165, with $55,085 in local match].

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Director Emami reported that the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) awarded the Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) $425,165 in Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant (STPG) funds. He noted that the funds were intended to support the ANNA Bus Rapid Transit and Community Connection Nodes Planning Project. He added that due to leadership changes with ATN and the City’s expanded role in governance, ATN requested that the City assume responsibility for the grant and adjust the scope to focus on mobility needs for the 2028 Olympics. He added that Caltrans supported the direction and he new plan to focus on transit and transportation connections to the Honda Center, OCVIBE, and the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), and identify potential schedule changes for major events, recommend transit stop and first/last mile improvements, review ticketing and wayfinding strategies, and coordinate closely with OCTA, Caltrans, Metrolink, LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency, and various other public and private transportation providers will also be required. He shared that the action is exempt from CEQA because it is limited to planning and data gathering.

DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Leon, Director Emami explained that the City would coordinate with LA28 to focus on managing the movement in and around the City. He shared that Caltrans accepted the amendment to the scope because the original scope would not include enough time for implementation. He shared that the goal is to complete the Transit and Mobility Plan by 2027.

Council Member Leon requested additional information on what the grant covers.

Director Emami explained that the grant is applicable to the study, data gathering, and outreach. He explained that following the study, there would be implementation of actual projects, schedule changes, wayfinding, and signage.

In response to Council Member Leon, Director Emami reported that the City would identify projects that are feasible for the City. He added that staff’s intention is to consider projects that are not restricted to only the Olympics. He reported that staff are conducting outreach to the community, hotels, the LA28 Committee, OCTA and transit providers, and stakeholders. He shared that the Honda Center would be hosting volleyball for seven days with four events per day, with 17,000 people expected per event per day. He noted that does not include visitors staying in the Resort or using transit to travel to other events.

MOTION: Council Member Leon moved to RESOLUTION NO. 2025-098 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM ratifying and approving the actions of the Anaheim Director of Public Works, or designee, in submitting a grant application on behalf of the City of Anaheim to the California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) for the LA28 Transit and Mobility Plan and, authorizing the acceptance of such grant 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 [Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Award in the amount of $425,165, with $55,085 in local match], seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Meeks.

ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0. Motion carried.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

17. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-099 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM certifying a Final Environmental Impact Report No. 357 and adopting findings of fact and Mitigation Monitoring Program No. 398 for the OC River Walk Project and related actions.

Approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Orange County Water District for the OC River Walk Project; and authorize the Director of the Community Services Department to execute the MOU and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the MOU.

Director of Community Services Larson-Cash shared that the OC River Walk Project is a multi- agency multi-benefit project that, when completed, will create the first River Walk in Orange County.

She shared that the action is a major milestone in the progress of this project and thanked Council for its consideration.

Parks Manager JJ Jimenez reported that OC River Walk Project site encompasses approximately a 2-mile stretch of the Santa Ana River, covering almost 111-acres. He noted that the project stretches from Orangewood on the southern edge to north of Ball Road connecting to the Anaheim Coves. He added that N=notable adjacent properties include Anaheim Stadium, ARTIC, and OCVIBE.

Parks Manager Jimenez reported that the project area typically does not have water and only a functional regional bike trail. He shared that there are limited opportunities for recreation and for the community to engage with the river. He shared that the OC River Walk is a vision to transform the 2- mile River Corridor, with the main goals to connect, recreate, revitalize, and conserve. He provided an overview of the City’s partnerships, ranging from regulatory agencies, to funding partners, landowners, neighbors and advisory bodies. He highlighted the robust community input process for this Project that began more than two years ago.

Parks Manager Jimenez reported that the Master Plan is the result of collaboration with stakeholders and conversations with the community. He noted that the main components of the Project involve creating water impoundments, modifying the east and west riverbanks, constructing two pedestrian and bicycle bridges, providing new trails, improving existing trails, and enhancing community opportunities. He shared that enhanced connectivity for the community will be achieved through New Trails and Trail Improvements and new access points would be provided. He added that beginning with River Park, open spaces would be created for events and activities that will provide new ways for people to experience the river. He shared that the river would be revitalized through art, education, signage, native plants, nature, and viewing points. He reported that two water impoundments in the river will allow for recreation and recharge the groundwater.

Parks Manager Jimenez noted that in addition to the Master Plan, considerable progress has been made on the environmental process for the project. He shared that an Environmental Impact Report has been completed and the project would not result in any significant and unavoidable impacts. He shared that the City has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Orange and requests approval of an MOU with Orange County Water District to guide the design, implementation and operation of the OC River Walk Project. He added that staff would be working with OC Public Works to develop an MOU for this project. He shared that a $7 million grant for the pedestrian and bicycle bridge was from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).

He noted that all efforts have been fully funded by the Coastal Conservancy. He reported that next steps include completing the federal environmental process called NEPA, development of construction documents, and submitting permit applications. He shared that staff would continue to pursue funding from grants and other sources to implement construction.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

DISCUSSION: Council Member Maahs requested clarification on the scope of the MOU and the City’s commitment.

Parks Manager Jimenez clarified that the MOU sets up future negotiations between the OC Water District and the City to enter into specific agreements. He reported that the City would be responsible for most project components including design, permitting and implementation, and once constructed, the OCWD would take over the operation of the impoundments, with reimbursement from the city for operation.

In response to Council Member Maahs, Parks Manager Jimenez clarified that River Park is the first phase of the OC River Walk. He noted that the project is fully grant-funded, in the permitting process, and expected to break ground next summer.

MOTION: Council Member Maahs moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2025-099 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM certifying a Final Environmental Impact Report No. 357 and adopting findings of fact and Mitigation Monitoring Program No. 398 for the OC River Walk Project and related actions and approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Orange County Water District for the OC River Walk Project; and authorize the Director of the Community Services Department to execute the MOU and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the MOU, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Meeks.

DISCUSSION: Mayor Aitken expressed her excitement over the project and highlighted Mayor Pro Tem Meeks’ advocacy for the project as a representative on the OC Water District.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks highlighted the project as a model for the entire County. She shared her advocacy for the project on the OC Water District. She noted that the idea for the project was from a student through a design competition.

Council Member Balius highlighted staff’s work on the project and the collaboration of different agencies on the project.

MOTION: Council Member Maahs moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2025-099 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM certifying a Final Environmental Impact Report No. 357 and adopting findings of fact and Mitigation Monitoring Program No. 398 for the OC River Walk Project and related actions and approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Orange County Water District for the OC River Walk Project; and authorize the Director of the Community Services Department to execute the MOU and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the MOU, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0. Motion carried.

18. ORDINANCE NO. 6617 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending specified sections of Chapter 2.14 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to the Anaheim Tourism Improvement District (introduced at the Council meeting of November 18, 2025, Public Hearing Item No. 14).

Council Member Kurtz highlighted the partnerships with the hotel community on the item to help the Resort workers become homeowners. She thanked the hotels, the City Council, and staff for working on the item.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

MOTION: Council Member Kurtz moved to adopt ORDINANCE NO. 6617 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending specified sections of Chapter 2.14 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to the Anaheim Tourism Improvement District (introduced at the Council meeting of November 18, 2025, Public Hearing Item No. 14), seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0. Motion carried.

Ordinance adopted.

19. Approve the appointment made by the City Manager of Manuel (Manny) Cid, III, to the position of Chief of Police, effective December 29, 2025, approve the associated employment agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.

City Manager Vanderpool reported that Chief Manuel (Manny) Cid was selected as the finalist for the Anaheim Police Chief position. He shared that the recruitment process has brought a top-quality finalist. He highlighted the City Council’s top priority for public safety in the community. He noted that the job in Anaheim is of a different magnitude altogether. He shared that the City serves 350,000 residents in a city spanning 20 miles and the police serve a collection of district neighborhoods from West Anaheim to Anaheim Hills. He noted that the City is diverse city and calls for a chief who leads with understanding and insight, including a visitor economy, with theme parks, conventions, sports, entertainment and 25 billion visitors annually. He noted that the police chief oversees more than 400 sworn officers in major operations, including Patrol, Swat, Gang, Air, Canine and a Mounted Unit.

Running the Anaheim PD is a greater responsibility than running many entire cities. We also need a He explained that the City requires a Chief who understands and responds to the priorities of the Council. He reported that the recommended contract strikes an appropriate balance, acknowledging that public safety is the Council's and the community's highest priority, and that the proposed agreement for the Chief is consistent with salary survey findings.

Director of Human Resources Linda Andal reported that Gary Peterson with Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc. handled the recruitment for the position. She shared that following the retirement announcement by the current chief of police, Rick Armendariz, on July 8, the City contracted with Gary Peterson, who exclusively handles recruitments for public safety. She shared that prior to posting the position, Mr. Peterson met with the Mayor and all members of the City Council to gather feedback, capture the City's needs and priorities, align key messaging, understand the challenges of the City and the department, and to define the ideal candidates, such as leadership qualities, experience and community engagement. She noted that in addition to individual meetings with the City Council, Mr. Peterson met with internal stakeholders, which included impacted bargaining units, and those were APA, APMA, AFSCME, and AMEA, as well as members of the executive team during the process. She reported that prior to interviews the City and Mr. Peterson gathered additional feedback to guide the search and shared information through a series of department meetings, one- on-one drop-in meetings with Mr. Peterson, and virtual community sessions. She shared that two of the community meetings were held in person and the City provided input surveys through two QR codes, one that went directly to the city and one that went directly to Mr. Peterson. She noted that staff attended all City Council District meetings.

Director Andal reported that the top candidates were invited to interview with different panels, which included a professional panel, a community panel, a City executive panel, a labor panel, as well as a City Manager panel. She stated that under the authority granted by Section 604(a), of the City Charter, the City Manager selected Manny Cid to the position of Chief of Police. She shared that Chief Cid has over 21 years of law enforcement experience and is bilingual in both English and City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Spanish. She noted that he currently serves as the Chief of Police for the City of Glendale, and prior to that, as the Chief of Police for the City of Culver City, where he rose from the rank of police officer to Chief of Police. She reported that Chief Cid currently serves his profession in a leadership capacity as the president of the Los Angeles County Police Chiefs Association, representing the 45 chiefs of Los Angeles County. She shared that Chief Cid holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor's degree in political science. She reported that the terms and conditions for Chief Cid are set forth in the agreement and agenda report. She shared that staff is recommending one amendment to delete Section 4(B)(2) of the contract, and in lieu of longevity, place the value into the base pay, resulting in a salary of $389,485.34 and will include an additional 12% for recognition and possession of an executive POST certificate and graduation from the National FBI Academy, as well as all other Benefits. She noted that he would also enjoy the benefits provided to all executive managers, a vacation bank of 160 hours and 40 hours of sick leave, vacation accrual of eight hours, and 40 hours of non-cashable admin leave, and a severance package of 12 months. She reported that the appointment is effective December 29, 2025.

DISCUSSION: In response to Mayor Pro Tem Meeks, Director Andal explained that a professional panel consisted of City Managers, sitting Police Chiefs, a community panel, and a panel with community business stakeholders. She added that there was a City executive panel and a labor panel with APA, APMA, AFSCME, and AMEA and a final panel with the City Manager.

Mayor Pro Tem Meeks expressed her appreciation for the thorough process. She shared her support for the City Manager’s recommendation and the update to the longevity pay clause of the contract.

MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to approve the appointment made by the City Manager of Manuel (Manny) Cid, III, to the position of Chief of Police, effective December 29, 2025, approve the associated employment agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement as amended to delete Section 4(B) of the employment agreement, and in lieu of longevity pay, place the value into the base pay, for a total salary of $389,485.34.

DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Maahs, Director Andal confirmed that the severance package is consistent with the former Chief’s.

MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to approve the appointment made by the City Manager of Manuel (Manny) Cid, III, to the position of Chief of Police, effective December 29, 2025, approve the associated employment agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement as amended to delete Section 4(B) of the employment agreement, and in lieu of longevity pay, place the value into the base pay, for a total salary of $389,485.34, seconded by Council Member Rubalcava.

DISCUSSION: Council Member Rubalcava commended the City Manager for the thorough recruitment process and communication. She thanked Mr. Peterson for bringing in candidates that the City Council could vet and bring to Anaheim. She expressed her excitement to welcome Chief Cid and ensure that the City is meeting its public safety goals. She reiterated her thanks to the City Manager for his professionalism and communication during the process.

In response to Council Member Leon, Mr. Peterson shared that he is a retired Police Chief with over 20 years in the business. He reported that he has conducted over 100 police chief recruitments including 25 major cities. He shared that the process is consistent with other entities.

Council Member Leon thanked Chief Cid for meeting with him. He requested that Chief Cid provide comments on immigration enforcement in the community and his background.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Chief Cid shared that he is the son of two Cuban immigrants, so he personally understands the anxiety and fear many residents feel about immigration issues. He emphasized that the role of local law enforcement in Anaheim is public safety, not federal immigration enforcement. He stated that APD’s job is to protect the community, work with all segments of the community, and not assist federal agencies with immigration enforcement, while still following the law. He stressed the need to educate the community on the difference between local police and federal immigration authorities so residents feel safe reporting crimes and seeking help. He said APD must work extra hard through outreach and communication so people, especially in vulnerable communities, understand that police are there to support and protect them, not target them for immigration status.

In response to Council Member Leon, Chief Cid explained that success depends on trust and credibility between the police and community. He shared that the Chief must be the visible face of that trust, being physically present and culturally engaged. He added that the Department would still hold events like National Night Out and Coffee with a Cop, but also meet the community in faith- based groups, cultural organizations, youth groups, and other community spaces. He shared that the goal is for residents to see officers as real people with similar backgrounds, and to build deep, lasting relationships across all segments of the community.

In response to Council Member Leon, Chief Cid shared that his goal is to work with the existing team to understand the organization and areas for improvement. He shared that the number one goal is to protect Anaheim deliver high-level service, fight crime effectively, and be well prepared for emergencies so Anaheim is one of the safest cities in the region and nation. He mentioned additional goals include preserving trust and ensure accountability and transparency in everything the department does, because public trust and credibility are the foundation of effective policing. He added that an additional goal is to maximize the organization’s potential – raise professionalism and set a high standard so Anaheim can be a model for public safety, fully developing the talent within APD to push the department forward.

Council Member Kurtz thanked the City Manager and Human Resources Director for their work on the process, and included community members who represent the districts. She requested that Chief Cid elaborate on team building and its importance in the organization.

Chief Cid explained that strong, successful organizations are built on healthy teams, and that’s as true in policing as anywhere else. He shared that from day one e plans to focus on building a strong management team and then connecting that culture all the way down to line staff. He mentioned that he wants every sworn officer and professional staff member to feel supported, valued, and part of something bigger, because when people feel that way, the organization can build momentum and “anything’s possible.”
Council Member Rubalcava expressed her appreciation for Chief Cid’s focus on “getting back to basics” and supporting officers so they feel valued and equipped to do a dangerous job, noting City Manager Vanderpool has similarly rebuilt trust and engagement with employees. She read a portion of a letter submitted by the former Mayor and City Council Member of the City of Glendale Elen Asatryan, regarding Chief Cid. She read, “He will elevate your department and your city. He will strengthen your community relationships. He will continue to build trust and move public safety forward. He will take the Anaheim Police Department to new levels of distinction. Chief Cid is the kind of leader who leaves every place better than he found it. Glendale is living proof of that. I have no doubt Anaheim will soon feel the same. Although we are sad to see him go, we are proud to see him take this next step and grateful that he is joining a city that recognizes the caliber of leader he is. Anaheim is gaining an extraordinary Chief and an extraordinary human being.” She requested that the City Manager cease the post-retirement agreement with the current chief, having the City City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Manager temporarily assume oversight of APD with the Deputy Chief reporting directly to him, and pausing further internal changes so the new chief can arrive and assess the department without additional disruption. She shared that she is grateful for Chief Armendariz’s extended service during this time.

In response to Mayor Aitken, City Attorney Fabela clarified that the item regarding the post-retirement agreement is a statement for the record and could be agendized if requested. Council Member Rubalcava clarified she is providing guidance to the City Manager.

Council Member Balius thanked the City Manager and Mr. Peterson for their work and including the community. He shared that he met with Chief Cid and concurred with Mayor Pro Tem Meeks’ concerns about longevity pay. He welcomed Chief Cid to the City.

Mayor Aitken echoed Mayor Pro Tem Meeks’ concerns regarding longevity pay.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Director Andal confirmed the salary of $389,485.34.

In response to Mayor Aitken, City Manager Vanderpool shared that the salary was based on his current package with the City of Glendale plus 10%. He shared that there is a provision in the APA contract to provide up to 15% bonus pay for certain levels of credentials. Director Andal confirmed that the APMA contract includes an additional 5% for a POST Management certificate, and an additional 5% for possession of a Master’s degree. She added that the completion of an FBI National Academy is not included in the current APA contract; however, members receive 15% for a Senior Master Advance.

In response to Mayor Aitken, City Manager Vanderpool confirmed that there were no implications for the salary range. He confirmed that the salary is outside of his pay range and that he is working with Human Resources in combination with the Class and Compensation study for all employees. He added that compensation for executive positions would be tied to the Class and Compensation study.

Mayor Aitken inquired if the Chief’s salary impacts other department heads. Director Andal confirmed that they are all unique classifications and staff is reviewing all compensation and salary ranges for executives. She shared that the compensation is based on the requirements for the position.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Director Andal reported that there is no compaction study in place; however, the City Council provided direction to consider compaction during the Class and Compensation study. She shared that the only compaction is with the City Manager and no effect on other department positions.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Chief Cid shared that he sets the expectations for the department and its culture. He shared that the Department has a difficult job and shared the importance of them being supported by the Chief. He highlighted the City Council and the community’s support of public safety.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Chief Cid shared that he is looking for future leaders who have experience, technical skills, and education, but more importantly, who put the organization first and are team players. He added that he values diverse backgrounds and experiences, and when combined those who put the organization ahead of themselves.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Chief Cid reported that he his goal is to retire in the next 8–10 years. He shared that he would like to do long-term work with the existing executive team on major initiatives, including the Olympics and River Walk. He added that his marker for success is the professional City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

development of his team. He noted that two former members of his command staff are now police chiefs, and he intends to develop future chiefs from within APD. He explained that his goal is that when he does leave, Anaheim’s next chief will already be wearing an Anaheim uniform, so the City will not need to look outside for leadership.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Chief Cid shared that, regardless of who applied for the position internally, he plans to rely heavily on current management for their experience, insight, and talent as he settles in. He would like to work closely with staff to build a strong team. He shared that he is looking for leaders who add real value and genuinely want to be part of something larger, and says he is eager to work with anyone who fits that description.

In response to Mayor Aitken, Chief Cid shared that his approach to leadership and decision-making is that with his command staff and management team, he wants open input and differing perspectives; sometimes his view will prevail, sometimes others’ will. He explained that a decision must be a united, shared decision so the organization has clarity and consistent direction. He shared his commitment to supporting staff at all levels—holding them to high standards, giving honest critique and guidance, but also with the team in the decisions they make, because those are collective decisions.

Mayor Aitken thanked Chief Cid for answering the Council’s questions. She thanked Chief Armendariz for his service to the community.

Prior to final action by Council on Item No. 19, City Clerk Theresa Bass announced that, in compliance with Government Code Section 54953, an oral summary of the salary and compensation for Manuel Cid, III, to the position of Chief of Police, was provided by Human Resources Director Linda Andal during the staff presentation.

MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to approve the appointment made by the City Manager of Manuel (Manny) Cid, III, to the position of Chief of Police, effective December 29, 2025, approve the associated employment agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement as amended to delete Section 4(B) of the employment agreement, and in lieu of longevity pay, place the value into the base pay, for a total salary of $389,485.34, 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.

Chief Cid thanked the Mayor and City Council for their vote of confidence, acknowledging the process was rigorous because the decision is so important, and promised to work tirelessly with APD and the community to make them proud. He thanked City Manager Vanderpool for recognizing the leap of faith involved in hiring him and committing to strongly supporting him and working hard at every turn.

He thanked the City’s executive team and Human Resources Director and shared his excitement to work with them. He thanked outgoing Chief Armendariz and his command staff for decades of service, and said he looks forward to working with them for a smooth transition and to build strong relationships with current leaders. He addressed the community, promising to pour himself into Anaheim, be visible and accessible, and work so residents feel safe to live, work, and play in the City.

He addressed APD staff, sworn, professional, union leadership, thanking them for their difficult work, expressing honor and excitement to join them, and pledging to work and not let them—or the community—down.

The City Council took a brief recess at 9:10 p.m. and reconvened at 9:12 p.m.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

PUBLIC HEARING:

20. Public Hearing to consider the proposed vacation/abandonment of two segments of Santa Ana Street right-of-way situated between Philadelphia Street and Olive Street; and between Claudina Street and Philadelphia Street [continued from Council meeting of October 28, 2025, Public Hearing Item No. 28].

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-100 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM vacating two segments of excess street right of way abutting 275 and 301 East Santa Ana Street (Abandonment No. ABA2024-00434).

Approve the Offer and Agreement to Purchase Real Property, in substantial form, with MTHCALV-I SANTA ANA STREET, LLC, in the amount of $30,000, for the sale of excess right-of-way; authorize the Public Works Director to execute the agreement and authorize the Mayor to execute the Quitclaim Deed; authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreements, so long as the changes are determined to be de minimis by the City Attorney’s Office; authorize the Public Works Director, or designee to execute other documents as required to close the transaction; and authorize the City Clerk to hold the recordation of the Resolution and Quitclaim Deed with the Orange County Recorder's office until directed by the Public Works Director, or designee.

Director Emami reported that the item was continued from the October 28, 2025, City Council meeting and concerns the proposed abandonment of two segments of excess street right-of-way abutting 275 and 301 East Santa Ana Street. He shared that the abandonment has been requested by the developer Meritage Homes of California to clear title for the construction of a residential project. He added that the abandonment request is for two segments of the Santa Ana Street right-of- way, totaling approximately 1,222 square feet, to be assembled into the adjacent property owned by the developer, generally located at 275 and 301 East Santa Ana Street. He reported that on November 13, 2024, the City Council approved project entitlements, which included the approval of Tentative Tract Map No. 19290, to create a one-lot condominium map to construct 56 townhomes.

Director Emami reported that City staff evaluated the segments of Santa Ana Street proposed for abandonment and determined that they lie outside the ultimate right-of-way and are not needed to support existing or future public use. He stated that the review confirmed that these areas have no role in current street operations and are not required for any planned transportation or infrastructure improvements. He reported that based on the analysis, staff have concluded that the right-of-way proposed for abandonment qualifies as excess property and is unnecessary for present or prospective public use, consistent with Section 8324(b) of the Streets and Highways Code.

Director Emami stated that City Council Policy No. 5.5 contemplates compensation to the City for the fair market value of any applicant requesting the abandonment or vacation of any easement, right-of- way, or other property interest. He added that the Real Property Section, responsible for recommending fair market value, determined that a separate appraisal for this abandonment request was unnecessary given the minimal square footage of the right-of-way proposed for abandonment and the nominal contribution the area provides to additional development. He reported that City staff analyzed the value based on the factors above and the dedication of the right-of-way, conditioned on the approval of the tract map, and compared it with similar projects for which appraisals were obtained. He explained that as a result, staff have determined the fair market value of the right-of-way to be $30,000.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

At 9:16 p.m., Mayor Aitken opened the public hearing.

Marc Herbert expressed concern about oversight, public engagement, and public oversight. He inquired if the video stream would show the recess taken by the City Council.

Mayor Aitken requested that Mr. Herbert relate his comments to the public hearing.

Mr. Herbert requested that the video is streamed unedited and raised concern about Brown Act violations. He referenced previous comments raised by the former Purchasing Agent on contract amounts in staff reports. He questioned the types of inquiries the City Council raises regarding projects. He expressed concern that the City Council is not receiving all public comments for projects.

City Clerk Bass reported that no electronic public comments were received related to Public Hearing Item No. 20.

At 9:22 p.m., Mayor Aitken closed the public hearing.

MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Meeks moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2025-100 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM vacating two segments of excess street right of way abutting 275 and 301 East Santa Ana Street (Abandonment No. ABA2024- 00434) and approve the Offer and Agreement to Purchase Real Property, in substantial form, with MTHCALV-I SANTA ANA STREET, LLC, in the amount of $30,000, for the sale of excess right-of- way; authorize the Public Works Director to execute the agreement and authorize the Mayor to execute the Quitclaim Deed; authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the agreements, so long as the changes are determined to be de minimis by the City Attorney’s Office; authorize the Public Works Director, or designee to execute other documents as required to close the transaction; and authorize the City Clerk to hold the recordation of the Resolution and Quitclaim Deed with the Orange County Recorder's office until directed by the Public Works Director, or designee, seconded by Council Member Kurtz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES – 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Meeks, Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES – 0.

Motion carried.

Use - Zoning
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: City Attorney Robert Fabela stated that there was no reportable action for Item Nos. 1 through 3, and Item No. 4 was continued to the December 16th City Council meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENTS (non-agenda items): None
COUNCIL AGENDA SETTING:

Council Member Leon requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of Frank Cruze. He shared that he was a beloved member at Linbrook Bowl and that there would be a tournament held in his honor.

He added that the proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.

Mayor Aitken inquired whether documentation could be provided to families or loved ones.

City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a memoriam certificate is prepared outlining who requested the adjournment and is subsequently sent to the family or provided to a Council Member if they are attending the services. She confirmed that the certificate includes the entire City Council.

City Council Minutes of December 9, 2025

Council Member Rubalcava reiterated her request to adjourn the meeting in memory of Gilbert Aviña and Officer Alec Sanders. She requested a recognition for David from Vons for his retirement. She shared that he was Santa at many community events and has contributed a lot to the community.

Council Member Maahs requested that staff explore the ability to post the 988 Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline at the City’s public spaces.

Council Member Rubalcava added that her office hosts a suicide awareness event each year. She added that she would share the information and hopes the Council will consider hosting the event Citywide.

Council Member Leon requested a recognition for Dr. Ash and the University Veterinary Center for their quick thinking in saving a puppy’s life in District 2.

ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, Mayor Aitken adjourned the City Council at 9:12 p.m. in memory of Gilbert Aviña, Mia Leah Mejia, City of Alhambra Police Officer Alec Sanders, and Frank Cruze.

Respectfully submitted,
Theresa Bass, CMC
City Clerk