14-C
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Consideration and possible action to approve the Minutes of February 10, 2025, Regular Meeting of the City Council.
DATE: March 10, 2025
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Approve the February 10, 2025, Regular Meeting Minutes; or
2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
None
ATTACHMENT
Minutes of the February 10, 2025, Regular Meeting… ................ ………………………… 2
o“ 01: BELLFLO
“ s a
"o ROWING TOGETk‘YFS t f t
MINUTES
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BELLFLOWER CITY COUNCIL
AND BELLFLOWER FINANCING AUTHORITY
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2025
BELLFLOWER CITY HALL – COUNCIL CHAMBERS
5:30 P.M. CLOSED SESSION / 7:00 P.M. OPEN SESSION
5:30 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
1 CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Dunton called the Regular Meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower.
2 ROLL CALL
The following members of the City Council responded present to roll call:
Mayor Ray Dunton
Mayor Pro Tem Sonny R. Santa Ines
Council Member Dan Koops
Council Member Wendi Morse
Council Member Victor A. Sanchez
3 RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
For the record, 1) City Manager Smoot announced the title of the Closed Session item; and 2) Council Member Morse announced that she would recuse herself from Item 3-A as she has property interests within 500 feet of the subject properties.
There being no one from the public in attendance, without objection, Mayor Dunton recessed the Meeting at 5:32 p.m. to a Closed Session regarding:
A CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR
(Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.8) [CITY]
Property: 16916 and 16922 Bellflower Boulevard Agency Negotiator: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Negotiating Party: Gus Frousakis and Georgia Alevizos
Under Negotiation: Price and terms of payment
For the record, Closed Session adjourned at 6:57 p.m.
0;: BELLFL av“ 0%
I; ‘\ o v- ROWING Toofiwe
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 4
February 10, 2025 Page 2 of 17
4 RECONVENE FOR OPEN SESSION
Mayor Dunton reconvened the Meeting at 7:11 p.m. with all members present and announced that no reportable action was taken during Closed Session.
7:00 P.M. – OPEN SESSION
5 CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Dunton called the Open Session of the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 7:11 p.m.
6 ROLL CALL
The following members of the City Council responded present to roll call:
Mayor Ray Dunton
Mayor Pro Tem Sonny R. Santa Ines
Council Member Dan Koops
Council Member Wendi Morse
Council Member Victor A. Sanchez
Staff Participants:
Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
Len Gorecki, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Elizabeth Oba, Director of Planning and Building Services Jim Dellalonga, Director of Economic Development
Rowena Genilo-Concepcion, Planning Manager
Anna Garan, Finance Manager
James Atkins, Senior Planner
Wangsu Lee, Interim Senior Management Analyst
Karla Pineda, Management Analyst II
Dakota Wallace, Management Assistant
7 INVOCATION
Mayor Pro Tem Sonny R. Santa Ines offered the Invocation.
8 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Len Gorecki led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 9-A
February 10, 2025 Page 3 of 17
9-A CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS [CITY]
Mayor Dunton provided details relative to CR&R’s free compost giveaway to be held on February 22, 2025, at the Public Works Yard.
Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines provided details relative to the City’s distribution of free kitchen pails and compostable bags at the Farmers Market on February 17, 2025.
Council Member Morse provided details relative to the City’s 8-week, entrepreneurial program to begin on February 20, 2025, and is focused on empowering individuals to develop their leadership skills and understand the key steps to launching a successful small business.
Council Member Sanchez provided details relative to the “Maker to Market” program to be held February 24, 2025 through March 31, 2025, and is focused on guiding individuals on the steps of how to accomplish their entrepreneurial goals.
Council Member Koops provided details relative to the upcoming e-Waste Recycling event to be held on March 15-16, 2025, at Frank E. Woodruff Elementary School.
9-B PRESENTATION: National Black History Month Proclamation [CITY]
Mayor Dunton and his City Council colleagues declared February 2025 as National Black History Month in the City of Bellflower and presented the proclamation to Pastor A.D. Gartley of Faith Community Baptist Church.
Pastor Gartley 1) accepted the proclamation and introduced his wife, Lauren Gartley, and Pastor Tracy Williams of Holy Redeemer Lutheran Church; and 2) thanked the City Council for their acknowledgment of National Black History Month and the contributions to the country by various groups of people.
9-C PRESENTATION: Certificate of Recognition to Former City Engineer Jerry Stock [CITY]
Mayor Dunton and his City Council colleagues presented a Certificate of Recognition to Former City Engineer Jerry Stock in recognition of his 24 years of service to the City of Bellflower.
Former City Engineer Stock accepted the Certificate of Recognition and thanked the City Council for their recognition of his service.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 10
February 10, 2025 Page 4 of 17
10 PUBLIC COMMENTS
Tom Philips, Band Director, 605 All Star Band, 1) thanked the City Council for their assistance with the conduction of the 605 All Star Band practice parade march held on December 1, 2024, which was in preparation for the annual Rose Parade; 2) explained that a total of 528 students from surrounding cities, including Bellflower, participated in the Rose Parade; 3) stated that the partnership between the City of Bellflower and City of Lakewood to organize the practice march was admirable, noting that over 10,000 citizens attended the event; and 4) presented the City Council with a photo of the 605 All Star Band and a variety of banners from the event.
In response to comments provided by Tom Philips, Mayor Dunton commended him on his dedication to the Band and students and acknowledged that this had been Director Philips’s dream for many years.
Eitan Sharaf expressed public safety concerns regarding the Bottoms Up Bar located at 9080 Artesia Boulevard and requested that additional patrols be conducted in the area to alleviate violent crimes.
In response to comments provided by Eitan Sharaf, Mayor Dunton 1) stated that the property is under litigation, so the matter could not be discussed by the City Council; and 2) confirmed that Public Safety would patrol the area more frequently.
Chamile Leong, resident, expressing public safety concerns in the vicinity of Riverview Park, 1) stated that she was recently followed and chased by a man while walking in the park at approximately 8:45 a.m.; 2) confirmed she called the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for assistance, but the man fled the scene before Deputies arrived, although she did file a police report; 3) noted that there are no cameras in the park or the general area, so she was unable to receive video evidence of the incident; and 4) requested cameras, additional lighting, and additional patrols in the area of the park to prevent future crime.
In response to comments provided by Chamile Leong, 1) Mayor Dunton confirmed that the area is currently patrolled by Southwest Patrol; 2) City Manager Smoot suggested she speak with Director of Public Safety McNerney regarding the matter and explained that the City had received grant funding for security cameras in various City locations; and 3) Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki confirmed that security cameras at Riverview Park were approved for grant funding, but not yet installed.
Martha Curiel, resident, expressed public safety concerns in the vicinity of Riverview Park, explaining 1) she regularly visited the park, but does not frequent the area any longer due to safety concerns; 2) she is aware that cameras were approved by grant funding, but expressed frustration over the cameras not yet being installed; and 3) requested installation of cameras and additional patrolling in the area.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-A
February 10, 2025 Page 5 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider 1) General Plan Amendment Case No. GPA 25-01, Zone Change Case No. ZC 25-01 and Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Case No. ZOTA 25-01; 2) adopting Resolution No. 25-09; and 3) read by title only, waive further reading, and introduce Ordinance No. 1442.
Resolution No. 25-09 – A Resolution approving General Plan Amendment Case No. GPA 25-01 amending the Land Use Element to revise the definition of “mixed use,” and amending existing General Plan Land Use designations to “MU (Mixed Use)” for certain properties located within 12 specific areas to allow mixed use or residential developments to implement the Housing Element.
Ordinance No. 1442 – An Ordinance approving 1) Zone Change Case No. ZC 25-01 to: (A) establish zoning overlays (“Housing Opportunity Overlay Zone – HOOZ”) for certain properties to allow mixed use or residential developments; and (B) expand and modify boundaries of the TODSP Area; and (2) approve Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Case No. ZOTA 25-01 to: (A) establish regulatory framework of future development and uses within the “HOOZ”; and (B) amend the TODSP document related to regulations and expansion of the boundaries to implement the Housing Element. [CITY]
CEQA: The City reviewed the environmental impacts of the proposed Ordinance pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq. “CEQA”) and the regulations promulgated thereunder (14 Cal.
Code of Regs. §§ 15000, et seq., the “CEQA Guidelines”). In accordance with CEQA and CEQA Guidelines § 15162, the City Council finds as follows:
A) Resolution No. 22-04 was adopted by the City Council on January 20, 2022, approving Mitigated Negative Declaration No. MND 21-01; B) Changing the zoning designation for those properties identified in this Resolution is an activity contemplated by MND 21-01; C) This activity does not contemplate any changes which will require major revisions to MND 21-01 nor are there any substantial changes with respect to the circumstances under which MND 21 -01 was undertaken; and D) There is no new information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time MND 21-01 was approved.
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
Director of Planning and Building Services Oba 1) provided a brief verbal presentation of the Staff Report; 2) introduced Consultant Patti Nahill, Principal of PGN; and 3) stated that a clerical correction needed to be made to Section 5 of Resolution No. 25-09 to read “The City Manager, or designee, is directed to file a Notice of Determination in accordance with CEQA Guidelines § 15075, and any other applicable law.”
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-A
February 10, 2025 Page 6 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider 1) General Plan Amendment Case No. GPA 25-01, Zone Change Case No. ZC 25-01 and Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Case No. ZOTA 25-01; 2) adopting Resolution No. 25-09; and 3) read by title only, waive further reading, and introduce Ordinance No. 1442 – Continued
For the record, Consultant Nahill 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) along with Director Oba, City Manager Smoot, and City Attorney Berger, responded to Council Members’ questions.
For the record, City Attorney Berger assessed that the “Public Generally” exception applies to this matter, so there is no apparent conflict for Mayor Dunton, Council Member Koops, Council Member Morse, and Council Member Sanchez, who have property interests within 500 and 1,000 feet at various locations of the subject properties.
In response to Mayor Dunton’s questions and comments, Director Oba explained that existing property owners with property in the specified areas will maintain the same zoning and function of their property, adding that the proposed overlay would allow for mixed use or residential developments, increasing the flexibility of the use of the property.
At the request of Council Member Sanchez, Director Oba 1) clarified that the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (“RHNA”) for the City is approximately 3,700 housing units; 2) confirmed that there is no mandate by the State to build the required RHNA allocation units, only a mandate to create housing opportunities that meet the required RHNA allocation; 3) explained that with the current code, housing developments are permitted by right, but an application process is still required, further stating that the State requires the City to review an application against the objective development standards; 4) clarified that an application would be brought forward to the Planning Commission or City Council for consideration if an environmental document such as an Environmental Impact Report (“EIR”) or Negative Declaration is included in the future; and 5) confirmed that page 4 of the Staff Report details the highest need of housing, noting that “very low-income” units and “above moderate-income” units are the highest need per the RHNA.
For the record, and for the benefit of the public, Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines 1) explained that the RHNA is required by State Law and requires the City to provide opportunities for housing development; and 2) confirmed that the City will not require property owners in the specified areas to develop their property, but explained that the proposed recommendation would allow for property owners to develop if they choose to.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-A
February 10, 2025 Page 7 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider 1) General Plan Amendment Case No. GPA 25-01, Zone Change Case No. ZC 25-01 and Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Case No. ZOTA 25-01; 2) adopting Resolution No. 25-09; and 3) read by title only, waive further reading, and introduce Ordinance No. 1442 – Continued
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, relative to page 3 of Exhibit B to Ordinance No. 1442, 1) Director Oba a) stated that “emergency shelter” is a permitted use in the Housing Opportunity Overlay Zone (“HOOZ”), further clarifying that the use is still subject to certain development standards; b) noted that in the Bellflower Municipal Code (“BMC”), emergency shelters are already permitted by right, as required by State Law, reiterating that they are still subject to certain development standards; and c) confirmed that a Conditional Use Permit (“CUP”) would not be required for an emergency shelter as long as it is compliant with the current code; and 2) Consultant Nahill explained that “mixed use” may now be a combination of residential, industrial, and commercial land uses, noting that “mixed use” was previously defined as commercial, industrial, or residential land uses.
In response to Council Member Koops, Planning Manager Genilo clarified that the number of dwelling units within the eight specific areas of the HOOZ differs based upon their proximity to high transit areas.
For the record, and for the benefit of the public, Council Member Koops 1) stated that the State of California mandates each City to allocate a certain amount of housing opportunities within the confinements of the City, further expressing that if the City were to reject the State’s mandate, the City could lose sales tax revenue, Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) tax revenue, and gas tax revenue; 2) confirmed that surrounding cities, such as Lakewood, Cerritos, and Paramount are required to adhere to the mandate as well; 3) reiterated that the property owners in the specified areas will not lose their property rights, but will have the ability to develop and or sell their property if they choose to do so, further clarifying that the City has allocated the properties in the specified areas as potential sites for development in order to meet the required RHNA allocation, emphasizing that this does not mean that they will be developed.
For the record, Mayor Dunton 1) provided examples of recent developments in the City to demonstrate the possibilities that could occur with the proposed recommendation; and 2) requested and received confirmation from Director Oba that the RHNA is reconsidered every eight years.
Following lengthy discussion, it was moved by Council Member Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Morse, and carried without objection, to open the public hearing.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-A
February 10, 2025 Page 8 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider 1) General Plan Amendment Case No. GPA 25-01, Zone Change Case No. ZC 25-01 and Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Case No. ZOTA 25-01; 2) adopting Resolution No. 25-09; and 3) read by title only, waive further reading, and introduce Ordinance No. 1442 – Continued
For the record, the following individuals did not state a position in favor or against 1) adopting Resolution No. 25-09; and 2) reading by title only, waiving first reading, and introducing Ordinance No. 1442, but made comments and asked questions generally related to the subject of the public hearing:
• Eitan Sharaf
• Cory Nestman
• Unidentified Speaker
• Mary Ann Mull, Bellflower Moose Lodge
• Steve Alessi
• Robert Dorame, Native American Heritage Commission
• Doug Brink
• Lane Griscom
• Joe Chavarria
For the record, 1) Steve Alessi submitted materials to the City Council, stated that he did not receive notification of the matter, and left his address for staff to receive notice of any future hearings regarding the matter; and 2) Martha Curiel stated that she did not receive notification of the matter and left her address for staff to receive the item materials and notice of any future hearings regarding the matter.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried without objection, to close the public hearing.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, seconded by
Council Member Sanchez, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to 1) adopt Resolution No. 25-09, as amended to correct Section 5 of Resolution No. 25-09 to read “The City Manager, or designee, is directed to file a Notice of Determination in accordance with CEQA Guidelines § 15075, and any other applicable law”; and 2) read by title only, waive first reading, and introduce Ordinance No. 1442, as amended to correct the title to read “The Downtown Bellflower Transit-Oriented Development Specific Plan (‘TODSP’)”:
AYES: Council Members – Santa Ines, Koops, Morse, Sanchez, and Mayor Dunton
Recess: For the record and without objection, Mayor Dunton recessed the meeting at 8:56 p.m. for a brief break.
Reconvene: For the record, Mayor Dunton reconvened the meeting at 9:03 p.m., with all Council Members present.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-B
February 10, 2025 Page 9 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to adopt Resolution No. 25-08 – A Resolution approving Entertainment Permit Case No. EP 24-01 to allow for live musical performers with instruments, DJs, dancing, Karaoke, and audio-visual equipment at an existing property within The Downtown Bellflower Transit Oriented Development Specific Plan (TOD SP) on property located at 16728 Bellflower Boulevard; Applicant: Mairim Martinez-Melero (Bachi Yaki, Inc.). [CITY]
CEQA: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq.) and CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §§ 15000, et seq.), the City conducted an environmental assessment. Based on the environmental assessment, the project was determined to be categorically exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities (a Class 1 Categorical Exemption).
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
For the record, Council Member Morse 1) announced that she would recuse herself from Item 11-B as she has property interests within 500 feet of the subject property; and 2) left the dais and Council Chambers at 9:04 p.m.
Senior Planner Atkins 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; 2) stated that a correction was needed to the hours of operation on page 3 of the Staff Report to read “Sunday through Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.; Entertainment Monday through Sunday: 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.”; and 3) along with City Manager Smoot, Planning Manager Genilo-Concepcion, and Director of Planning and Building Services Oba, responded to Council Members’ questions.
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, 1) Senior Planner Atkins clarified that the not to exceed twelve musicians in the Staff Report is not a condition of the entertainment permit, but it may be added with City Council direction, further noting that it is advised to not have more than twelve; 2) Director Oba a) confirmed that the application submitted by the applicant states not to exceed twelve musicians; and b) clarified that the applicant has completed tenant improvements to the facility, so the floor plan differs from the floor plan of the previous tenant; and 3) Planning Manager Genilo-Concepcion stated that an entertainment permit is not transferable, explaining that if there is a change of ownership or change of operator, a new entertainment permit is required.
In response to Mayor Dunton, Senior Planner Atkins confirmed 1) the applicant is proposing operating hours until 2:00 a.m.; and 2) the applicant has a Type 47 liquor license, further explaining that one of the conditions of the entertainment permit is to include a late-night menu due to the sale of alcohol.
At the request of Council Member Sanchez, 1) Senior Planner Atkins explained that the applicant submitted a security plan which is included in the Staff Report and detailed different components of the plan; and 2) Director Oba confirmed that there are additional businesses in the Downtown Area that sell alcohol and have an operating time until 2:00 a.m.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-B
February 10, 2025 Page 10 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to adopt Resolution No. 25-08 – Continued
Following discussion, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, seconded by Council Member Sanchez, and carried without objection, to open the public hearing.
For the record, the following individuals spoke in favor of adopting Resolution No. 25-08, introduced themselves, and responded to Council Members’ questions:
• Mairim Martinez, Applicant, Business Owner’s Representative and Vice President of Marketing
• Ozzy Martinez, Business Owner’s Representative and General Manager
• Billy Rogers, Business Owner’s Representative and Vice President of Operations
In response to questions and comments made by Council Member Koops, 1) Vice President of Marketing Martinez stated that they will hire approximately thirty employees local to the City and the owner was unable to attend the meeting due to the flu; 2) General Manager Martinez a) stated that the owner has restaurant experience with current restaurant locations in Los Angeles, in addition to food trucks, and she is the sole business owner and property owner; b) confirmed work was not conducted at the property prior to obtaining permits; c) indicated that that tables shown on the floor plan are movable and the lounge area is an open space without furniture; d) stated that staff and security guards will monitor the outside of the business and surrounding area to ensure compliance with the City’s standards of cleanliness and security, noting that they will survey the area and clean as needed after operating hours; and e) confirmed that they will work with the bank located across the street to establish a parking agreement for use of their lot; 3) City Manager Smoot clarified that Code Enforcement investigated work being done at the property, noting that permits were issued and the matter was resolved; and 4) Vice President of Operations Rogers stated that the goal of the business is to add entertainment to the City on weekends, emphasizing that they will provide excellent service to their patrons and be good neighbors.
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, 1) Vice President of Marketing Martinez a) provided a verbal overview of the mission of the business; b) stated that security personnel will be at the front entrance and back exit, confirming that patrons will not be able to exit through the back; c) explained that they are actively recruiting staff through social media posts and recruiting websites, noting that they have received many applications from applicants local to Bellflower or the surrounding cities; and 2) General Manager Martinez confirmed that the stage area was removed but space will still be available for certain events, also noting that they will hold free tango classes for seniors.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-B
February 10, 2025 Page 11 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to adopt Resolution No. 25-08 – Continued
Following brief discussion, in response to Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines’s concerns relative to patrons exiting through the back of the building, Vice President of Operations Rogers proposed they position a security guard there from 9:00 p.m. to close of business to ensure exiting is not allowed through there.
For the record, and without objection, Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines requested that a condition be added to the entertainment permit that would require security personnel to be located at the back exit to ensure patrons do not exit through that side of the building from 9:00 p.m. to close of business.
At the request of Mayor Dunton, Vice President of Operations Rogers 1) stated that the building is ready for opening, but they still need to train staff, so their goal is to have a soft opening in approximately two to three weeks; and 2) confirmed that the proposed hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
For the record, Council Member Sanchez expressed that he was confident with the security plan provided and its implementation.
Following brief discussion, Director Oba 1) confirmed that there are businesses in the Downtown Area that allow for alcohol, such as Kalaveras, Ricci ’s Italian Restaurant, and Rokka Grill & Whiskey Bar, noting that those Conditional Use Permits (“CUPs”) allow for the same operating hours proposed by the applicant; 2) clarified that the hours of operation identified in the original CUP still stand, which are from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. daily, with a condition that alcohol can only be served after 10:00 a.m.; and 3) requested clarification on the entertainment permit hours, as the proposed hours are from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., but the applicant mentioned having entertainment in the late morning and early afternoon on certain days.
With regard to the entertainment permit hours and following discussion, 1) Vice President of Operations Rogers confirmed that entertainment was proposed for brunch on the weekends, but would likely not be held earlier than 10:00 a.m.; and 2) City Manager Smoot clarified for the record that the entertainment permit hours are amended to reflect Monday through Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried without objection, to close the public hearing.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 11-B
February 10, 2025 Page 12 of 17
11 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to adopt Resolution No. 25-08 – Continued
It was moved by Council Member Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Koops, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to adopt Resolution No. 25-08, as amended to 1) include entertainment permit hours of Monday through Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.; and 2) add a condition that a member of the security personnel be present at the back exit daily from 9:00 p.m. to close of business:
AYES: Council Members – Santa Ines, Koops, Sanchez, and Mayor Dunton
RECUSE: Council Member – Morse
For the record, Council Member Morse returned to the Council Chambers and dais at 10:14 p.m.
C Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to receive comments during the development of the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan for the allocation of Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership Program funds, and the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. [CITY]
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
Management Analyst Pineda 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) along with City Manager Smoot, Director of Economic Development DellaLonga, Finance Manager Garan, and Consultant Ana LeNoue of Avant-Garde, Inc., responded to Council Members’ questions.
At the request of Council Member Sanchez and Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, Consultant LeNoue confirmed that the City’s allocation has not yet been released, but applications have been received and are being reviewed by HUD, further stating that she expects that the allocation will be released by next month.
Following discussion, it was moved by Mayor Dunton, seconded by Council Member Sanchez, and carried without objection, to open the public hearing.
There being no one in attendance wishing to present testimony, it was moved by Council Member Sanchez, seconded by Mayor Dunton, and carried without objection, to close the public hearing.
For the record, there was no formal action taken on this item.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 12
February 10, 2025 Page 13 of 17
12 ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
None
13 CONSIDERATION ITEMS
A Consideration and possible action to create a two Council Member ad hoc committee to review and evaluate the City’s Cannabis Business Permit (“CBP”) policies and procedures. [CITY]
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
For the record, Council Member Koops 1) announced that he would recuse himself from Item 13-A as he has property interests within 500 feet of one of the subject properties; and 2) left the dais and Council Chambers at 10:51 p.m.
Interim Senior Management Analyst Lee 1) provided a verbal presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) along with City Manager Smoot responded to Council Members’ questions.
For the record, at 10:53 p.m., City Attorney Berger stated that pursuant to Resolution No. 21-55, if business has not concluded by 10:30 p.m., no new business will be considered unless a majority vote of the City Council agrees to continue on with the meeting.
Following brief discussion, it was moved by Mayor Dunton, seconded by Council Member Sanchez, and carried without objection, to continue on with the meeting.
For the record, 1) Mayor Dunton expressed that he would like to serve on this Ad Hoc Committee, stating that cannabis dispensaries are located in his Council District; and 2) Council Member Sanchez expressed that he would also like to serve on this Ad Hoc Committee as he also has cannabis dispensaries located in his Council District.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Dunton, seconded by Council Member Morse, and carried by the following roll call vote, to create an ad hoc committee consisting of Mayor Dunton and Council Member Sanchez to review and evaluate the City’s Cannabis Business Permit (“CBP”) policies and procedures:
AYES: Council Members – Santa Ines, Morse, Sanchez, and Mayor Dunton
RECUSE: Council Member – Koops
For the record, Council Member Koops returned to the Council Chambers and dais at 10:55 p.m.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 13-B
February 10, 2025 Page 14 of 17
13 CONSIDERATION ITEMS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Cal -City Construction, Inc., for the construction of Bellflower Youth and Senior Center Facility (Specifications No. 23/24-07); and authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with Cal-City Construction, Inc., in a form approved by the City Attorney. [CITY]
For the record, 1) City Manager Smoot introduced the item; 2) Mayor Dunton, Council Member Koops, and Council Member Sanchez announced that they would need to recuse themselves from the matter as they each own property within 500 feet or 1,000 feet of the subject property; 3) Mayor Dunton announced that there was a lack of quorum on the matter due to property conflicts of interests for three Council Members and explained that lots would be drawn randomly to determine which one of the conflicted Council Memb ers would participate in the matter; 4) City Clerk Ochiqui conducted the random drawing and announced that Council Member Sanchez would participate in the matter; and 5) Mayor Dunton turned the meeting over to Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines to conduct the meeting.
For the record, at the request of Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, City Attorney Berger stated that Mayor Dunton, Council Member Koops, and Council Member Sanchez have a conflict in the matter because the item before the City Council is to take definitive action to move the project forward, noting that when items regarding this matter were previously considered by the City Council, it was only conceptual plans for a potential project, so there was no conflict.
For the record, Mayor Dunton and Council Member Koops left the dais and Council Chambers at 11:00 p.m.
Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki 1) provided a verbal presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) responded to Council Members’ questions.
James Lin, President of Cal-City Construction, Inc., 1) stated that Cal-City Construction, Inc. has been in business for forty years and is local to the area; and 2) introduced Gene Lee, Project Manager of Cal-City Construction, Inc.
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, 1) President Lin a) stated that they completed the renovation of an existing building and new construction of a senior center in the City of Agoura Hills, noting that the project was similar in size and cost to this Project; and b) confirmed that he has staff ready to begin the Project if it is awarded; and 2) Project Manager Lee a) stated that they recently finished a two-year project for the ABC Unified School District at Gahr High School, explaining that the project was challenging due to the condensed schedules , but they were able to work through the challenges and renovate fifty-seven classrooms in eight weeks in addition to Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) improvements; b) confirmed that they can begin work once the Notice to Proceed (“NTP”) is issued, noting that Superintendents have already been staffed in anticipation of the award and procedures have been established to begin the work as soon as possible; and c) stated that they estimate the Project to be completed within fourteen to eighteen months, as stipulated in the contract, but will try to accelerate the timeline to complete the Project sooner.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 13-B
February 10, 2025 Page 15 of 17
13 CONSIDERATION ITEMS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Cal -City Construction, Inc., for the construction of Bellflower Youth and Senior Center Facility (Specifications No. 23/24-07) – Continued
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Morse, and carried by the following roll call vote, to award a contract to Cal-City Construction, Inc., for the Project and authorize the City Manager to execute said contract, in a form approved by the City Attorney, within seven days:
AYES: Council Members – Santa Ines, Morse, and Sanchez RECUSE: Council Members – Koops and Mayor Dunton
For the record, Mayor Dunton and Council Member Koops returned to the Council Chambers and dais at 11:20 p.m.
14 CONSENT CALENDAR
For the record, Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines requested that Item 14-E (Legislative Platform) be pulled for discussion only.
With regard to Item 14-E (Legislative Platform), at the request of Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, Interim Senior Management Analyst Lee stated the following was added to the Legislative Platform:
a) Preserve Local Control: Oppose initiatives that weaken local control over governance, revenue management, or service delivery;
b) Enhance Public Safety: Support policies that promote transparency and accountability in law enforcement services in the community; c) Promote Economic Development and Strengthen Local Land Use:
i) Support legislation that tackles issues related to absentee property owners and vacant properties; and
ii) Support legislation that supports local businesses in promoting sustained long-term economic growth; 2) explained “Measure H” will now read as “Measure A”; and 3) stated the City Attorney is now authorized to submit amicus support in appeals cases.
For the record, 1) City Manager Smoot explained that if there is a pending piece of litigation that an Appeals Court is hearing, the City Attorney has the authorization to submit amicus support to the Court on behalf of the City; and 2) City Attorney Berger clarified that the amicus support can be in support or opposition of the litigation before the Court.
Following discussion, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Santa Ines, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried without objection, to approve the actions stipulated on the Consent Calendar.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 14
February 10, 2025 Page 16 of 17
14 CONSENT CALENDAR – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to receive and file City Council Warrant Register No. 25-081, dated February 10, 2025. [CITY]
Action: Received and filed Warrant Register No. 25-081.
B Consideration and possible action to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1439 – An Ordinance amending Bellflower Municipal Code Chapter 15.40 and reaffirming the City Council’s determination that the City comply with regulations promulgated by the State of California to protect public health, safety and from the devastation of uncontrolled fire incidents. [CITY]
Action: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 1439.
C Consideration and possible action to receive and file Bellflower Financing Authority’s audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. [BFA]
Action: Received and filed Bellflower Financing Authority’s audited financial statements.
D Consideration and possible action to adopt Resolution No. 25 -07 – A Resolution authorizing the destruction of obsolete records from all City Departments. [CITY]
Action: Adopted Resolution No. 25-07.
E Consideration and possible action to adopt a Legislative Platform authorizing the City Manager to issue position letters on State and Federal legislation impacting local government services in the City of Bellflower. [CITY]
Action: Adopted the proposed Legislative Form and authorized the City Manager to issue position letters on State and Federal legislation impacting local government services in Bellflower and authorized the City Attorney to submit amicus support in appeals cases that help promote the legislative agenda with pending cases.
F Consideration and possible action to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1441 – An Ordinance amending Chapter 3.30 to Title 3 of the Bellflower Municipal Code entitled “Public Works Contracts” in its entirety. [CITY]
Action: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 1441.
G Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 4 to AFN 684.4, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Tripepi Smith & Associates, and approve the necessary budget amendment for the continuation of Communication Coordination and Outreach Services. [CITY]
Action: 1) Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 4 to Agreement File No. 684.4, in a form approved by City Attorney; and 2) Approved a budget amendment in the amount of $70,000 for Account No. 010-41317-1012.
Bellflower City Council and BFA Minutes Item No. 14
February 10, 2025 Page 17 of 17
14 CONSENT CALENDAR – Continued
H Consideration and possible action to approve the Minutes of the January 13, 2025, Regular Meeting of the City Council. [CITY]
Action: Approved the January 13, 2025, Regular Meeting Minutes.
I Consideration and possible action to approve the Minutes of the January 16, 2025, Special Meeting of the City Council. [CITY]
Action: Approved the January 16, 2025, Special Meeting Minutes.
15 COUNCIL REPORTS
Council Member Sanchez made various comments and reports.
For the record, Council Member Sanchez inquired about when the following will be coming back to the City Council for further consideration: 1) a progress report of how building staff is performing, including whether they are making progress with scheduling inspections; and 2) the discussion of traffic calming.
16 ADJOURNMENT
Without objection, Mayor Dunton adjourned the meeting at 11:27 p.m. to the next Regular Meeting of the Bellflower City Council at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2025.
Ray Dunton, Mayor
City of Bellflower
ATTEST:
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
Approved: March 10, 2025