MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK
HELD OCTOBER 22, 2024
1. GENERAL
Vol. 54 Pg. 168
The City Council met in a regular session on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber of the Civic Center, 6650 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, California, Mayor Sonne presiding.
1 A.
1 B.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
Brown, Traut, Ahn, Sonne
None
Also present were: Aaron France, City Manager; Chris Cardinale, City Attorney; and Adria M. Jimenez, MMC, Director or Government and Community Relations/City Clerk. 1 C. INVOCATION
The Invocation was led by Pastor Don Harbert, BPPD Police Chaplain and The Way Fellowship. 1 D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Matt Foulkes, Director of Community and Economic Development.
1 E. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported the following:
* Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Jimenez provided an election update including mailing of ballots; start of early voting; options to cast a ballot in person at a participating vote center or by mail; Buena Park ballot drop box locations; opening of early vote centers, such as the Buena Park Community Center location; and opening of all vote centers. All Orange County voters are encouraged to sign up for OC Ballot Express to track their vote-by-mail ballot and receive notifications via text or email. Lastly, the public may contact the City Clerk's Office for any election-related questions, and may visit the City website for candidate and Measure R information.
@ Director of Community and Economic Development Foulkes informed the community about the City's Commercial Fagade Improvement Program. Commercial property owners or tenants may qualify for a $10,000 grant for cosmetic improvements or a $95,000 for structural improvements. Application materials are available on the City's website and at City Hall.
* Cops N' Goblins, Thursday, October 31, 2024, 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Buena Park Civic Center.
* Buena Park Senior Center closed until Friday, November 1, 2024 due to maintenance issues.
2. PRESENT ATIONS
2A. PRESENTATION OF PROCEEDS FROM THE 2024 FALLEN FOUR GOLF
TOURNAMENT TO THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AND GMNG CHILDREN HOPE
Police Captain Geyer and Sergeant Plumlee presented the proceeds from the 2024 Fallen Four Golf Tournament to the American Cancer Society and Giving Children Hope.
Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 169
2B. PRESENTATION OF BUENA PARK YOUTH THEATRE FALL PRODUCTION OF
DISNEY HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL ON STAGE
Lori Hernandez, Friends of the Buena Park Youth Theatre, invited the community to the Buena Park Youth Theatre production of Disney High School Musical On Stage. Ms. Hernandez provided information regarding show dates and times. Tickets may be purchased at the Buena Park Community Center or online at www.buenapark.com/finearts. Tickets are also available for sale one hour before the start of the show at the Box Office. Additionally, the cast or Disney High School Musical on Stage performed a preview of their Fall production. 3A. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Sonne announced the public may at this time address the members of the City Council on any matters within the jurisdiction of the City Council.
Russell Harrison, Buena Park School District Chief Personnel Officer, spoke regarding Measure M - Buena Park School District School Safety, Renovation and Construction Measure, and the benefits of its passing. Mr. Harrison also encouraged Buena Park voters to vote yes on Measure M.
Jose Trinidad Castarieda spoke regarding the lack of representation for District 2 residents upon his resignation.
There being no additional requests to speak, Mayor Sonne closed oral communications.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR (4A - 4H)
Mayor Sonne announced that Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4A through 4H would be acted upon by one motion affirming the actions as recommended on the agenda and agenda bills submitted and inquired if anyone present desired to have any item removed for separate consideration.
There being no requests for separate consideration, the following action was taken on Item Nos. 4A - 4H:
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Brown
Traut
Brown, Traut, Ahn, Sonne
None
MOTION CARRIED that all actions recommended on Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4A - 4H be approved.
Minutes
4A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Recommended Action: Approve the Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting of October 2, 2024, and Special and Regular City Council Meetings of October 8, 2024.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Finance 75
4B. RESOLUTIONS APPROVING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS
Recommended Action: Adopt Resolutions approving Claims and Demands.
ADOPTED the following titled resolutions:
RESOLUTION NO. 14907
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $3,091 ,457.7(3i DEMAND NOS. 427178 THROUGH 427374 CANCELLED N0. 426811
RESOLUTION NO. 14908
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERT AIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $20,561 .26 COVERING RETIREE PAYROLL ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2024
Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 170
RESOLUTION N0. 14909
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERT AIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1 ,079,303.34 COVERING REGULAR PAYROLL ENDING SEPTEMBER 27, 2024
RESOLUTION NO. 14910
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $j,072,039.57 COVERING REGULAR PAYROLL ENDING OCTOBER 11 , 2024
Proclamations 119
4C. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 20 - 26, 2024 AS CHILDHOOD LEAD
POISONING PREVENTION WEEK
Recommended Action: Approve Proclamation.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3564 Public Works Proj. 125 PW-967 4D. FINALPAYMENTTOM.J.ELLSCONSTRUCTION,lNC.FORTHESTAGESTOP
BUILDING REPAIR PROJECT
Recommended Action: 1 ) Accept the project as complete and approve a final payment to M.J. Ells Construction, Inc. in the amount of $6,561.50; and, 2) Direct the Public Works Department to file a Notice of Completion.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3335 Budgets 47
4E. AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH WEST COAST ARBORISTS, INC. FOR TREE TRIMMING
Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve Amendment No. 1 to Professional Services Agreement (PSA) 21-40 with West Coast Arborists, Inc. for tree trimming services in the amount of $340,000; 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the agreement; 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the agreement; and, 4) Approve a budget amendment in the amount of $20,500 from the General Fund.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3572
4F. CONTRACT WITH SOCALREN AND WATER HEATER WAREHOUSE FOR WATER
HEATER REPLACEMENTS AT VARIOUS CITY FACILITIES
Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve participation in the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) incentive program to replace six City water heaters with energy efficient heat pump water heaters; 2) Adopt a resolution waiving competitive bidding and authorizing a contract with SoCalREN's preferred contractor, The Water Heater Warehouse, LLC; 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary non-monetary changes to the contract; 4) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute a contract with Water Heater Warehouse in an amount not to exceed $151,239.21, of which $137,303.34 is to be paid directly through the SoCalREN incentive program, $10,835.87 to be paid by the City of Buena Park, and $3,100 to be paid by the TECH Clean California incentive program; and, 5) Authorize the City Manager to take such other actions as are reasonably necessary or required to participate in the incentive program and complete the project.
APPROVED the recommended action and ADOPTED the foilowing titled resolution:
RESOLUTION N0. 14911
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
WAMNG FORMAL BIDDING AND APPROVING ALTERNATIVE BIDDING PROCEDURES
FOR A HEAT PUMP WATER REPLACEMENT PROJECT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL ENERGY NETWORK
Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 171
Contracts 70 C-3201
4G. AMENDMENTN0.4TOLICENSEAGREEMENTWITHMGPXllBUENAPARK CENTER, LLC (MERLONE GEIER) FOR USE OF 8150 LA PALMA FOR THE BUENA
PARK FARMERS MARKET
Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve Amendment No. 4 to the license agreement with MGP Xll Buena Park Center, LLC ("Merlone Geier") for use of the site at 8150 La Palma Avenue for the Buena Park Farmers Market; 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the amendment; and, 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the agreement.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3351 Grants 185
4H. RESOLUTIONAUTHORIZINGPERSONSHOLDINGCERTAINDESIGNATED
POSITIONS TO EXECUTE URBAN AREA SECURITY INITIATIVE (UASI) GRANT
DOCUMENTS FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK To designate and authorize staff to execute the FY 2023 Urban Area Security Initiative grant agreement documents on behalf of the City of Buena Park. Persons in the designated positions will be authorized to execute all documents associated with the administration of grants and training opportunities awarded to Buena Park, or to apply for grants or grant-related activities available to the City's public safety entities.
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt a resolution authorizing the Police Chief or his designee to execute Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant documents for and on behalf of the City of Buena Park; 2) Authorize the City Manager, Police Chief or designated persons within the Buena Park Police Department to oversee and administer the projects associated with the Anaheim/Santa Ana UASI training and funding on behalf of the City; 3) Approve an agreement with the City of Santa Ana for transfer or purchase of equipment/services or reimbursement of training costs; 4) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the agreement; and, 5) Authorize the Police Chief to execute the agreement.
APPROVED the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 14912
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING AND ADOPTING OFFICIAL LOGOS FOR THE CITY OF BUENA PARK'S
OFFICE OF SUST AINABILITY AND ASSOCIATED PROGRAMS
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
5. NEW BUSINESS (5A - 5D)
Contracts 70 C-3573 Budgets 47
5A. PROFESSIONALSERVICESAGREEMENTWITHKIMLEY-HORN&ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BUENA PARK SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN
Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve Professional Services Agreement (PSA) 24-10 with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for the Development of the Buena Park Safe Routes To School Plan in the amount of $432,01 7.82; 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the agreement; 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the agreement; and, 4) Appropriate $433,000 from the undesignated General Fund balance for this purpose.
Senior Engineering Technician Wray provided a report regarding the Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for the development of the Buena Park Safe Routes To School (SRTS). Plan. The SRTS Plan aims to provide clear implementable recommendations to create safer, more comfortable walking and bicycling options for Buena Park students, their families, and residents near 16 public elementary, middle, and high schools in Buena Park. Staff collaborated with Caltrans to finalize all requirements for the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant (STPG) Program, and was later informed of being awarded the said grant. The City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in August 2024, and received proposals from qualified consultants. After proposal evaluations, staff determined that Kimley- Horn and Associates, Inc. ("Kimley-Horn") was the most qualified and responsive consultant. It was recommended that the City Council approved the PSA with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 172
Inc. for the development of the Buena Park Safe Routes To School Plan.
Vice Mayor Ahn asked about the timeline and completion of the SRTS Plan.
Senior Engineering Technician Wray indicated that the entire program could take approximately 18 months to complete. Staff will conduct outreach efforts and meet with students, parents and schools for feedback.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Traut
Ahn
Traut, Ahn, Brown, Sonne
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action.
Admin. Svcs. 112 Human Resources 89
5B. RECEIVEANDFILEADRAFTREPORTREGARDINGTHEBUENAPARKSTAFFING
AND ORGANIZATIONAL ASSESSMENT
Recommended Action: 1 ) Receive and file a draft report.
Assistant City Manager Fenton introduced Municipal Resource Group, LLC ("MRG") Consultant Rick atto to provide a presentation of findings and recommendations regarding the Buena Park staffing and organizational assessment conducted in September 2024.
Consultant Rick atto presented the general findings gathered from the organizational and staffing level assessment of all City departments. The primary purpose of this assessment was to provide the City with a snapshot of observations and recommendations regarding organization staffing and potential staffing needs; organizational structure and resource allocation; review service delivery models, and supervisory structures. Mr. atto explained MRG interviewed over 37 City personnel from City departments including the City Manager's Office, Human Resources and Risk Management, City Clerk's Office, Finance, Community and Economic Development, Public Works, and Community Services. The assessment focused on identifying opportunities for improvement and enhancing overall efficiency and service delivery to each department's operational structure. Mr. Otto then discussed the findings and overview of recommendations. MRG presented 39 recommendations including a proposal of 29 new positions and reclassification of existing positions, and 11 operations- and organizational- related.
Assistant City Manager Fenton advised the City Council that the recommendations will asSiSt in making future staffing and operational decisions to enhance organization effectiveness, efficiency and delivery of services to the Buena Park community over the next three years.
Assistant City Manager Fenton also noted that implementation of the recommendations could cost the City between $3,000,000 to $4,000,000 annually in personnel costs, and does not include vehicles, equipment, or infrastructure needed to support the new positions.
Mayor Sonne commended staff for doing an outstanding job in delivering exceptional services despite staffing shortage.
Council Member Traut asked about the availability of the full assessment report.
Mr. Otto stated that the full report will be made available to the City Council and the public in approximately seven to ten days.
Assistant City Manager Fenton confirmed that the full report will be posted on the City's website as soon as it becomes available.
Council Member Brown spoke in support of hiring additional staff as recommended to support the growing needs of the community.
The City Council received and filed the report.
Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 173
Codes 64 Environmental Program (Sustainability) 180 5C. CONSIDERATIONOFANORDINANCEAMENDINGCHAPTER1.120FTHEBUENA
PARK MUNICIPAL CODE PERT AINING TO CITY LOGOS, AND A RESOLUTION
ADOPTING OFFICIAL LOGOS FOR THE CITY'S OFFICE OF SUST AINABILITY Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt an ordinance amending Section 1.12.050 of the Buena Park Municipal Code relating to official logos, logotypes, and patches of the City of Buena Park; and 2) Adopt a resolution related to official logos for the City of Buena Park's Office of Sustainability and its associated programs.
City Attorney Cardinale provided a report regarding a consideration of an Ordinance amending Chapter 1.12 of the Buena Park Municipal Code pertaining to logos, and a resolution adopting official logos for the City's Office of Sustainability. The proposed Ordinance amends Section
1.12.050 of the Buena Park Municipal Code to add department-and-program-specific logos, imagery, or similar distinctive markings to the list of seals, logos, and patches already adopted and protected in Chapter 1.12. Additionally, to protect and prevent unauthorized use of original distinctive markings that serve to both identify and distinguish the specific departments, services or programs of the City to the community, City staff determined the need to recommend a similar protection to "department and program logos." The Office of Sustainability has created new logos, imagery, characters, and artwork which staff proposes to use in connection with various sustainability programs. Staff prepared a draff resolution for City Council's consideration in connection with the ordinance aforementioned, that would adopt and protect the unique and original creations exclusively for the City's use. If approved by the City Council, staff also sought formal trademark/copyright protection of the Buena Park Sustainabuddies to further protect against unauthorized use.
Council Member Traut and Mayor Sonne commended Sustainability Manager Thai for her work on the Buena Park Sustainabuddies.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Traut
Brown
Traut, Brown, Ahn, Sonne
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled resolution and ordinance:
RESOLUTION NO.14913
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
APPROVING AND ADOPTING OFFICIAL LOGOS
OFFICE OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ASSOCIATED
CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
FOR THE CITY OF BUENA PARK'S
PROGRAMS
ORDINANCE NO. 17 42
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 1.12.050 0F THE BUENA PARK MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
OFFICIAL LOGOS, LOGOTYPES, AND PATCHES OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK Contracts 70 C-3304 Housing 87
5D. CONSIDERATION OF AN ASSIGNMENT AND SECOND AMENDMENT TO
AFFORDABLE HOUSING DISPOSITION AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT (AHDDA) WITH C&C DEVELOPMENT
The City Council will consider approving an Assignment and Second Amendment to the Disposition and Development Agreement with C&C Development concerning the City- owned property located at 7101 Lincoln Avenue, Buena Park, CA.
Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve an Assignment and Second Amendment to the Affordable Housing Disposition and Development Agreement with C&C Development to subordinate the City's security interest in the property to project loans issued by the County of Orange; and, 2) Authorize the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk to finalize and execute a Second Amendment and take related actions to implement the change in lien priority.
City Attorney Cardinale provided a report regarding the assignment and second amendment to Affordable Housing Disposition and Development Agreement (AHDDA) with C&C Development.
The development project is moving forward, and the parties are getting ready to meet the last conditions needed for closing, with escrow expected to conclude by the end of the year.
Alongside securing the Land Use Entitlements from the City, C&C Development has also finalized and secured the financing required for the project's development. It is typical for Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 174
affordable housing project construction and permanent financing to consist of a combination of institutional and governmental lenders. City Attorney Cardinale discussed lenders have diverse underwriting and regulatory requirements, which have necessitated the consideration of a Second Amendment to the AHDDA ("Second Amendment") to adjust terms in several areas.
Additionally, City Attorney Cardinale explained the terms and its content that would need to be modified such as lien priority, housing unit mix, and development schedule. It was noted that the Second Amendment does not make any changes or revisions to the project that create the potential to cause any new, additional or increase the severity of impacts to the environment.
Therefore, the CEQA exemption still applies. It was recommended that the City Council approve the requested changes, and authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to finalize and execute a Second Amendment to the AHDDA that includes the aforementioned and other confirming or clerical changes needed to finalize the transaction and allow C&C Development to proceed with closing and development.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Brown
Sonne
Brown, Sonne, Ahn, Traut
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action.
6. PUBLIC HEARING
No Public Hearing Items.
7. MAYOR/CITY COUNCIL REPORTS AND CALENDAR
7A. REPORTS
Council Member Brown reported the following:
* October 17 Silverado Days Kickoff
* October 18-20 Silverado Days
Council Member Brown thanked the Buena Park Police Department and Public Works Department for doing an outstanding job during the Silverado Days weekend.
Council Member Traut reported the following:
* October 9 Walk to School Day at San Marino Elementary School @ October 10 Buena Park Council Candidate Forum
* October160CFALegislativeandPublicAffairsCommitteeMeeting * October 16-18 Cal Cities 2024 Annual Conference and Expo * October 18Luna Grill Grand Opening
@ October 19-20 Silverado Days
* October 20 Event Supporting Buena Park CVS Workers Council Member Traut indicated serving as one of the speakers for the session on Navigating Homelessness: A Successful Regional Concurrent Session Partnership in North Orange County during the Cal Cities 2024 Annual Conference and Expo held on October 16-18, 2024 at Long Beach, CA. The panel discussed regional partnership to address homelessness and highlighted public engagement process, funding, navigation center referral, outcomes, and oversight.
Vice Mayor Ahn reported the following:
* October 91 0'h Annual Quinceariera Reception
* October 17 Beatty Middle School Principal for a Day Event * October 17 Silverado Days Kickoff
* October 18 Luna Grill Grand Opening
Vice Mayor Ahn reported attending two nonprofit community events at The Source on October 19 and 20, 2024.
Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 175
Mayor Sonne reported the following:
* October 9 Walk to School Day at Dysinger Elementary School * October 12 0CFA Fire Station 61 0pen House
* October 15 0CPA Board Meeting
* October150CPAPresentationofBrightFuturesGrantAwardtoBuenaParkMiddleSchool * October 17 Silverado Days Kickoff
* October 18-20 Silverado Days
* October 20 Hanbok Day Fashion Show
* October 21 Dysinger Morning Assembly
Mayor Sonne discussed the success of the 2024 Silverado Days, and expressed looking forward to next year's celebration.
8. RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Sonne recessed the meeting at 6:03 p.m. and announced the meeting would be reconvened in the City Council Chamber. The meeting was reconvened at 6:12 p.m.
9. STUDY SESSION (9A - 9C)
9A. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR TRAFFIC CONCERNS NEAR TAMARACK
WAY/DALE STREET/LA PALMA AVENUE
Senior Engineering Technician Wray provided a report regarding the traffic concerns near the Dale Street and La Palma Avenue intersection. Senior Engineering Technician Wray discussed the existing conditions on, and analysis of Tamarack Way; and, the existing conditions on, and analysis of La Palma Avenue and Dale Street. With regards to the traffic concerns on Tamarack Way, staff has already implemented no parking zones and striping changes and will continue to monitor the roadway for any conditions that might be warranted. As for La Palma Avenue, staff will require the developer to implement the protected left-turn in and left-turn out islands at the new driveway. The changes could be implemented during the construction phase of the new development project. Moreover, the northbound lanes of Dale Street at La Palma Avenue can be reconfigured. Staff will convert the northbound outside through lane to a right-turn only lane on the south side of the intersection; and, reconfigure the lanes to remove the outside through lane on the north side of the intersection. The lane configuration changes on Dale Street south of La Palma will be implemented in the next two to three weeks, while changes on Dale street north of La Palma will be implemented in coordination with the Annual Pavement Rehabilitation Project in summer 2025.
Mayor Sonne asked about the distance of the stop light on La Palma Avenue from the proposed location of the right-turn-only-lane.
Senior Engineering Technician Wray indicated that the distance is approximately several hundred feet, and less than 66 cars are bound to travel on La Palma Avenue during the morning rush hour.
Council Member Traut spoke in support of staff's recommendations to address the traffic concerns near Tamarack Way, Dale Street, and La Palma Avenue.
Following the discussion, the City Council directed staff to reconfigure the outside northbound lane on Dale Street south of La Palma Avenue to be a right-turn-only lane.
Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 176
9B. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING AN EVALUATION OF THE
NEED FOR AN ADULT SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD AT THE INTERSECTIONS OF
CAMELLIA DRIVE AT COLUMBINE CIRCLE/PERIWINKLE DRIVE AND CAMELLIA
DRIVE AT CALLALILY CIRCLE
Assistant City Engineer Arabolu provided a report regarding the results of the assessment for the need of adult school crossing guards on Camellia Drive. Assistant City Engineer Arabolu discussed the existing conditions along Camellia Drive at the intersections of Columbine Circle and Periwinkle Drive, and along Camellia Drive at the intersection of Callalily Circle. It was noted that general guidelines for crossing guard warrants are set by the CA MUTCD. These guidelines, though not mandated, provide consistent operating standards to assist local schools with crossing-guard placements. Available gaps in traffic (space and time between vehicles) are a primary factor in determining the need for a Crossing Guard. Staff collected manual traffic counts during the hours of highest pedestrian volumes (school arrival and dismissal times) at both crosswalk locations along Camellia Drive. Additionally, staff completed a thorough field review and collected Average Daily Traffic (ADT), speeds, and collision histories on Camellia Drive. Based on current volume counts and requirements of the CA MUTCD, both the intersections did not meet the necessary warrants for the assignment of an adult school crossing guard. Nevertheless, staff proposed changes to enhance traffic safety and flow around the school, and presented them to the City Council for consideration.
Mayor Sonne spoke regarding the need for the assignment of adult school crossing guards on Camellia Drive.
Council Member Traut asked about the school staff's to enhance traffic safety and flow around the school; recommendations as presented.
response regarding the proposed changes
and, spoke in support of the
Assistant City Manager Arabolu indicated that the assignment of the crossing guard was not brought up by school staff; however, they expressed support on the recommendations proposed to enhance traffic safety and flow around the school.
Vice Mayor Ahn suggested having traffic enforcement presence at Dysinger Elementary School for a few weeks, and report back the findings to the City Council prior to deciding the need to assign crossing guards.
Council Member Brown spoke in support of the recommendations to enhance traffic safety and flow around the school; and, suggested that the City Council review the issue six months affer the changes have been implemented.
Following the discussion, the City Council directed staff to proceed with the proposed changes to enhance traffic safety and flow around the school and return in six months for a review of the changes. A majority of the City Council (Ahn/Brown dissented) did not support adding a crossing guard at the proposed location.
9C. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING A PILOT PROGRAM FOR
RESIDENTIAL WILDLIFE SPRAY DETERRENT DEVICES
Senior Management Analyst Fewer provided a report regarding a pilot program for residential wildlife spray deterrent devices. Due to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's updated policy, Southeast Area Animal Control Agency (SEAACA) is no longer authorized to set traps for wildlife animals or feral cats that wander around the community. Nevertheless, there are other ways to deter these animals from traversing neighborhood properties or cohabitating on a property. Some examples include feeding domestic animals indoors; ensuring trash is stored in trash bins; trimming back shrubs and bushes; keeping grounds free of fallen/rotting fruits; and, prohibiting mass feeding of wildlife or feral cats. Senior Management Analyst Fewer explained the proposed rebate program wherein residents will be given the opportunity to choose solutions they want to try. It was also noted that there will be a limit in number of devices and its amount; a restriction to single-family residences; a budget allocation of $1,000 for the remainder of the fiscal year; and, a reevaluation of the scope and effectiveness of the program before the next budget cycle.
Mayor Sonne asked about the possibility of the City buying and renting out wildlife spray deterrent devices.
Council Member Traut asked about options that individual families could afford; and, spoke in support of allocating $1,000 to implement the pilot program.
Minutes October 22, 2024 Vol. 54 Pg. 1 77
Senior Management Analyst Fewer explained that the City did not proceed with proposing a program of renting out wildlife spray deterrent devices because the items were costly and that it would require excessive staff time. Instead, staff presented a program that would allow residents to purchase their preferred deterrent device and be able to apply for reimbursement.
Moreover, SEAACA provided effective options for staff to consider, while the wildlife specialist explained to staff efforts that would not work. Senior Management Analyst Fewer also indicated that the devices discussed in the report are intended to deter smaller animals, and residents are encouraged to practice preventative ways to deter wildlife animals from denning or returning to a property for efforts to work.
Council Member Brown and Vice Mayor Ahn spoke about their personal experiences with wildlife animals roaming around the community.
Following the discussion, the City Council supported educating the community regarding addressing wildlife issues.
10. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported about the Employee Halloween Event on Thursday, October 31, 2024.
11. COMMISSION & COMMITTEE UPDATES
Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Jimenez announced a vacancy in the Navigation Center Oversight Commission and interested residents are advised to contact Council Member Traut.
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Sonne adjourned the meeting at 7:09 p.m.
ATTEST:
Mayor