City Council Minutes
February 2, 2026
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CITY OF AZUSA
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL, THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY
TO THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY,
THE PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY
REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2026
The City Council of the City of Azusa met in Closed and Regular session at Azusa Auditorium at 213 E.
Foothill Blvd., Azusa, CA 91702.
Mayor Alvarez called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo.
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: ALVAREZ, AVILA, MEMDEZ, BOW
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES
ALSO PRESENT
Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo
Staff Members: City Manager Gonzalez, City Attorney Richman, Deputy City Manager DeAnda-Scaia, Director of Administrative Services Johnson, Deputy City Clerk II Hernandez
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
CLOSED SESSION
The City Council recessed to Closed Session at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the following item.
1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS. Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 54956.8.
Property Address: Charles H. Lee Elementary School (Baseball Field) - 550 N Cerritos Ave, Azusa, CA 91702, APN: 8612-002-903
City Negotiator: Sergio Gonzalez, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: Arturo Ortega, Azusa Unified School District Superintendent Under Negotiation: Price and Terms for Payment
2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS – Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 54957.6
City Negotiator: Sergio Gonzalez, City Manager, Talika M. Johnson, Director of Administrative Services and Nico DeAnda-Scaia, Deputy City Manager
Organizations: APEA (Azusa Police Executive Association) and Unrepresented Employees.
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION - Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Case Names: Carachure v. City of Azusa; Case No. 22STCP03478 and Carachure v. City of Azusa; Case No. 22STCV31418
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4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - WORKERS COMPENSATION CLAIM - Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 54956.95
Case Name: Jorge Sandoval
Claim Nos: 4A2107638D60001, AZUA-0361, and AZUA-1658
5. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - WORKERS COMPENSATION CLAIM - Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 54956.95
Case Name: John Lyda
Claim Nos: AZUA-2411, CJP040411AZ, AZUA-2459 and AZUA-1833
REGULAR SESSION
Mayor Alvarez called the meeting to order at 7:30 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo.
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ, BOW
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES
ALSO PRESENT
Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo
Staff Members: City Manager Gonzalez, City Attorney Richman, Deputy City Manager DeAnda -Scaia, Chief of Police Wenrick, Director of Administrative Services Johnson, Director of Economic & Community Development Jimenez, Director of Public Works Delgadillo, Director of Community Resources Carpenter, Director of I.T. Guadagnino, Deputy City Clerk II Hernandez, Planning Manager Vizcarra, Community Improvement Manager Edson, City Librarian Hassen, Community Improvement Supervisor Hale.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Tommy Singh.
The Invocation was led by Pastor Felix Garcia, Centro Esperanza Church.
CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Richman reported that five items were discussed during Closed Session, with no reportable action.
CEREMONIAL
Presentation of a Proclamation Declaring February 2026 as African American History Month.
Councilmember Bow presented a proclamation declaring February 2026 as African American History Month.
Presentation of a Certificate of Recognition to the American Legion Post 180 in honor of its 100th Anniversary.
Councilmember Avila presented a certificate honoring the American Legion Canyon City Post #180 in celebration of their 100th Anniversary.
Catalina Valera, representative of Congressman Gil Cisneros, also presented a certificate recognizing the Azusa American Legion Post #180 and extended wishes for many more years of continued success.
Neya Upadhyaya, representative of Senator Susan Rubio, presented a certificate of appreciation to American Legion Post #180.
Alexa Sanchez, representative of Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, presented a certificate to American Legion Post #180, congratulating them and extending best wishes for continued future success.
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Recognition of Community Improvement Supervisor Brent Hale for receiving the 2025 National Code Officer of the Year award from the American Association of Code Enforcement.
Community Improvement Manager Edson presented a certificate to Brent Hale in recognition of his achievement in receiving the 2025 National Code Officer of the Year award.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Kim Antol requested that the City Council consider hosting a Fourth of July celebration featuring food booths and crafts.
Assistant Fire Chief Steve Cabrera reminded the community that the Fire Department issued annual defensible space clearance notices on February 1
st; noted that residents who received a notice and have questions may attend the Referee Hearing scheduled for February 18th in Arcadia or visit the County of Los Angeles website for additional information.
City Clerk Cornejo announced that the Big Banana Car is in town and will be offering rides to the community over the weekend from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
REPORTS, UPDATES, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM STAFF/COUNCIL
City Manager Communications
City Manager Gonzalez reported that he had no formal announcements but reiterated the Fire Chief’s comments, adding that the City will also share information on social media and the City’s website to assist residents who received notices.
City Clerk
City Clerk Cornejo requested the designation of a voting delegate and alternate for the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). By Council consensus, Councilmember Bow was appointed as the voting delegate
.
Councilmember Announcements
Mayor Pro Tem Avila announced the 20th Annual Casino Night scheduled for February 13; announced the American Legion, Canyon City Post #180 100- Year Celebration taking place on February 21 at 2:00 p.m.; shared that the Azusa Boxing Program winter session will run Monday through Friday from February 2 to February 27; informed the community of free seminars at the North Recreation Center, including “Home Safety Presentation” by Visiting Angels on February 4 and “What is Elder Abuse” hosted by the YWCA on February 5; and also announced the Senior Valentine’s Day Dance scheduled for February 13.
Councilmember Mendez announced Tai Chi classes for seniors to be held on February 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th at the North Recreation Center; shared upcoming library events, including “Family Craft Hour” on February 10th, “Toddler Valentine Bash” on February 12th, and the “Family Brick Bash Building Club” on February 18 th; requested Council consensus to bring forward, at a future meeting, discussion regarding a proposed $0.50 tax increase by the Board of Supervisors; and expressed concern regarding the lack of turnstiles at the Metro Gold Line stations in the City of Azusa, noting that other cities have implemented them to address fare enforcement issues, and suggesting that Metro be contacted to explore potential solutions.
Councilmember Bow announced that the Azusa Library will be hosting a Family Craft Hour featuring a Chinese calligraphy workshop on February 3; mentioned that the Azusa Youth and Family Services Department will be hosting a variety of social events throughout the month of February; reported the 3rd Annual Lunar New Year event scheduled for February 28 at Memorial Park; stated the Azusa Renaissance Community Theater students will be performing an adaptation of The Giving Tree on April 24; and shared that she attended the Azusa Police Foundation Gala, thanking the board for organizing a meaningful celebration.
Mayor Alvarez announced upcoming classes, including “Hecho A Mano” art classes on February 4, Lunar New Year crafts on February 17, and Family Story Time with Mulan on February 17, all to be held at the Azusa Library; also reported attending the League of California Cities Conference in January; and mentioned updates to Metro station turnstiles along with a noted fare increase.
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SCHEDULED ITEMS
PUBLIC HEARING – CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF UPDATED CITYWIDE SCHEDULE OF
FEES AND CHARGES
Director of Administrative Services Johnson introduced Item D -1 regarding the annual review of the Citywide Fees and Charges Schedule and noted that the purpose of the fees is to ensure cost recovery.
Budget and Revenue Administrator Lam provided a background analysis and explained that the proposed fee adjustments are intended to account for inflationary cost increases; reviewed Staff recommendations, which included incorporating previously approved development impact fees into the Citywide Schedule of Fees and Charges without modification.
Staff requested that the City Council authorize annual updates to the schedule based on the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Los Angeles area, as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and adopt the updated Citywide Schedule of Fees and Charges.
Mayor Alvarez opened the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Cornejo certified the publication of the Public Hearing in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune on January 22, 2026. There being no one wishing to address the council on this issue, Mayor Alvarez asked for a motion to close the public hearing.
Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Avila, seconded by Councilmember Mendez and carried unanimously by the following roll call vote of the Council to close the Public Hearing,
AYES: ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ, BOW
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: GONZALES
ABSTAIN: NONE
Moved by Councilmember Bow and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Avila and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-C09, regarding various municipal activities and services, to be effective on February 2, 2026; and Adopt Resolution No. 2026- C10, regarding development project services fees, to be effective 60 days from February 2, 2026 (April 3, 2026).
AYES: ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ, BOW
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: GONZALES
ABSTAIN: NONE
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account Number: N/A
CONSIDER FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT WITH G2K CONSTRUCTION FOR MODERNIZATION OF SENIOR CENTER LOCATED AT 740 N. DALTON AVENUE
Director of Community Resources Carpenter introduced Item D -2 and provided an update on the Senior Center Modernization Project; requested that the City Council consider approval of a First Amendment with G2K Construction to complete the project.
Carpenter noted that initial project funding allowed construction to begin; however, once work commenced, additional issues were discovered, including deteriorated sewer and plumbing systems, mold conditions, and required code upgrades; she presented a new front entry design concept and reviewed project cost impacts.
Staff discussed the importance of implementing the proposed improvements and efficiencies to prevent future disruptions and ensure long-term functionality of the facility.
The proposed expanded project scope would require additional funding in the amount of $1.7 million to be added to the agreement with G2K Construction in order to complete construction.
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Councilmembers expressed concern regarding the increase in material costs and indicated a desire to revisit Capital Improvement Projects to better evaluate and understand overall project expenses; acknowledged the need for additional funding to address unforeseen damages; and emphasized that once completed, the facility should be maximized for broader community use and additional programming opportunities.
The Council inquired about future plans to potentially connect the Library facility and the Senior Center to enhance safety and accessibility.
City Manager Gonzalez shared a long -term vision of developing a cohesive civic center noting that City Hall currently stands separate from the Senior Center and Police Department; stated that discussions have taken place regarding connecting the three facilities, and that these conversations will continue following completion of the current project.
In response to questions regarding funding, it was explained that approximately $4.5 million have been allocated from the General Fund, with an additional $2 million coming from funds that directly impact applicable special revenue sources.
Moved by Councilmember Mendez and seconded by Councilmember Bow and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to: Approve the First Amendment to the contract with G2K Construction increasing the original contract amount from $3,889,000 to $6,008,521 (which includes use of previously authorized $388,900 contingency funds), and authorize Staff to make future amendments as needed for up to an additional contingency of $173,062 for potential change orders, for a total not -to-exceed amount of $6,181,583; and authorize the re-appropriation of $900,000 in cost savings from the Azusa Ave. Phase II project 13-80-000-661- 7120/66126C-7120, to the Senior Center Modernization project 13- 80-000-661-7120/54326A-7120; and authorize the use of $350,621 in Sewer Fund monies for this project; and Authorize the use of $400,000 in Public Benefit Funds for this project; and authorize the use of $80,000 in Electric Funds for this project; and authorize the use of General Fund monies not to exceed $223,062; and authorize the City Manager to execute the Amendment, subject to non-substantive changes, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City.
AYES: ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ, BOW
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: GONZALES
ABSTAIN: NONE
Total Cost: $1,053,683 (not budgeted); $900,000 (budgeted) Is the cost of this item budgeted? Partially Fund/Account No:
Sewer 34-80-000-665-7120/54326B-7120 $350,621
Energy Efficient 24- 40-739-082-6625/CIEnPt6625 $400,000 Electric Division 33-80-000-730-7145/73017A-7145 $80,000 General Fund 10-80-000-543-7125/54323A-7125 $2203,062
Utility Mitigation 13-80-000-661-7120/66126C-7120 to 13-80-000-661-7120/54326A-7120 (re-appropriation of $900,000)
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. The minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 17, 2025, were approved as written.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
2. Resolution No. 2026-C11 allowing certain claims and demands and specifying the funds out of which the same are to be paid was adopted.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
3. The following personnel action requests in accordance with the City of Azusa Rules of the Civil Service System, Azusa Municipal Code, and/or applicable Memorandum of Understanding(s) were approved.
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New Appointments: K. Stepter Jr.
Merit Increase/Regular Appointments: M. Garcia, G. Rios Separations/Retirements: S. Kim
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
4. The City Treasurer’s statement of cash and investment balances for the month of October 2025 was received, reviewed and filed.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
5. Staff was authorized to execute the reallocation request from attached Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program Agreement for FY 25/26 between the State of California CHP and the City of Azusa Police Department, and reallocate the $70,000 from the DUI Motorcycle and Motorcycle Outfits to purchase a DUI patrol vehicle; and the bidding process was waived as authorized under Azusa Municipal Code Section 2- 521(a) Cooperative, piggyback purchasing with other agencies in the best interest of the city and utilize contract number 081325-NAF with National Auto Gleet Group provided through Sourcewell’s Cooperative Purchase Program for the purchase of vehicles and related equipment; and Staff was authorized to purchase a 2026 Ford F-150 Police Responder (W1P) XL 4WD Super Crew Vehicle, instead of the DUI motorcycle, from National Auto Fleet Group, in an amount not to exceed $60,732.98.
Total Cost: $101,345.28 (Reimbursable Grant) Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A Fund/Account No: 28-20-310-117-7135
6. The project improvements for the Azusa Avenue Pavement Rehabilitation Project - Phase1 (Concrete Improvements) at Azusa Ave. from Arrow Highway to First Street were accepted; and Staff was authorized to file a Notice of Completion.
Total Construction Cost: $1,500,712.13 Is the cost of these item budgeted? Yes Fund/Account No: Highway 39 Fund (Acct. 14-80-000-666-7120/66126D-7120)
7. A Second Amendment to the Agreement with Totum Corp. increasing the contract amount from $501,248 (which includes 10% Contingency of $45,568) to $558,720 was approved; an additional contingency amount up to $5,747 for potential change orders as needed, for a total not-to-exceed contract amount of $564,467 was authorized; and the City Manager was authorized to execute the Second Amendment, subject to non-substantive changes, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, on behalf of the City.
Total Cost: $63,219 Is the cost of this item budgeted? Yes Fund/Account No: Senior Center Modernization CIP account 10-80-000-543-7125/54323A-7125
8. The Fiscal Year 2025/26 First Quarter Financial Report, ending September 30, 2025, was received, reviewed and filed.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Avila, seconded by Councilmember Mendez and carried by the following vote of the Council, to approve Consent Calendar Items E-1-E-8.
AYES: ALVAREZ, AVILA, MENDEZ, BOW
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: GONZALES
ABSTAIN: NONE
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SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES
SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF AZUSA CITY COUNCIL ADOPTING ZONE CHANGE NO. Z -2023-01 TO REZONE CERTAIN PROPERTIES FROM RECREATION (REC) TO NEIGHBORHOOD GENERAL 3 – MEDIUM DENSITY (NG3 -MED) AND WEST END LIGHT
INDUSTRIAL (DWL), CONSISTENT WITH THE AZUSA GREENS REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT, AND APPROVING DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT NO. DA- 2025-01 BETWEEN THE CITY OF AZUSA AND THE APPLICANT ESTABLISHING A 10 -YEAR TERM, PUBLIC BENEFIT CONTRIBUTION,
INFRASTRUCTURE OBLIGATIONS, AND VESTED DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS
Councilmember Mendez recused himself from consideration of Item F -1, citing a conflict of interest due to property ownership within 500 feet of the project.
Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Avila and seconded by Councilmember Bow and carried by unanimous vote of the Council to: Conduct the second reading by title only and adopt Ordinance No. 2026–01 a Zone Change No. Z - 2023-01 to rezone the respective areas from Recreation (REC) to Neighborhood General 3 -Medium Density (NG3-Med) and West End Light Industrial (DWL), consistent with the proposed development plan; and conduct the second reading by title only and adopt Ordinance No. 2026- 02 to approve Development Agreement No. DA-2025-01 between the City of Azusa and the Applicant, establishing a 10-year term for the Development Agreement, public benefit contribution, infrastructure obligations, and vested development rights for the Azusa Greens Redevelopment Project.
Total Cost: N/A Is the cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: N/A
AYES: ALVAREZ, AVILA, BOW
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: GONZALES
ABSTAIN: MENDEZ
Total Cost: N/A Is the Cost of this item budgeted? N/A
Fund/Account No: Fund 87 Successor Agency
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Alvarez adjourned the meeting in memory of Linda Prewitt and Danny Zimmerle.
TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 8:47 P.M.
CITY CLERK
UPCOMING MEETINGS:
February 17, 2026, 6:30 p.m. Closed Session, 7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting March 2, 2026, 6:30 p.m. Closed Session, 7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting