MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK
HELD FEBRUARY 11, 2025
Vol. 54 Pg. 195
1. GENERAL
The City Council met in a regular session on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber of the Civic Center, 6650 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, California, Mayor Ahn presiding.
1A. CALL TO ORDER
1 B. ROLL CALL
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
Franco, Hoque, Sonne, Traut, Ahn
None
Also present were: Aaron France, City Manager; Chris Cardinale, City Attorney; and Adria M. Jimenez, MMC, Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk. 1 C. INVOCATION
The Invocation was led by Pastor Don Harbert, The Way Fellowship Church and Buena Park Police Department Chaplain.
1 D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Sung Hyun, Director of Finance. 1 E. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported the following:
* Police Appreciation Brunch, Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 9:30 a.m. at Heritage Hall.
2. PRESENT ATIONS
2A. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2025 AS NATIONAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Council Member Sonne and Mayor Ahn presented a proclamation recognizing February 2025 as National Black History Month to Reverend Dion Thomas, SonRise Community Christian Church; and, Rosalind Rasheed and Dr. Edward Hamiltion, P2P Community Development, Inc.
Senior Field Representative Joe Pak, on behalf of Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva, presented certificates recognizing February 2025 as National Black History Month to Reverend Dion Thomas, SonRise Community Christian Church; and, Rosalind Rasheed and Dr. Edward Hamiltion, P2P Community Development, Inc.
2B. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2 - 8, 2025 AS OCFA BURN
AWARENESS WEEK
Vice Mayor Traut presented a proclamation recognizing February 2 - 8, 2025 as OCFA Burn Awareness Week to OCFA Division Chief Scheutz.
Vice Mayor Traut requested information regarding burn awareness be posted on the City's website.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 196
3A. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Ahn announced the public may at this time address the members of the City Council on any matters within the jurisdiction of the City Council. There being no requests to speak, Mayor Ahn closed oral communications.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR (4A - 4E)
Mayor Ahn announced that Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4A through 4E 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.
Council Member Franco pulled Item No. 4E for discussion. There being no additional requests for separate consideration, the following action was taken on !tem Nos. 4A - 4D:
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Sonne
Traut
Sonne, Traut, Franco, Hoque, Ahn
None
MOTION CARRIED that all actions recommended on Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4A - 4D be approved.
Finance 75
4A. RESOLUTIONS APPROVING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS
Recommended Action: Adopt Resolutions approving Claims and Demands.
ADOPTED the following titled resolutions:
RESOLUTION N0. 14948
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1 ,811 ,455.56 DEMAND NOS. 428820 THROUGH 429043 CANCELLED NOS. 425270, 425446, 425511 , 425817, AND 428210 RESOLUTION NO. 14949
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $20,283.26 COVERING RETIREE PAYROLL ENDING NOVEMBER 30, 2024
RESOLUTION NO. 14950
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1,020,845.50 COVERING REGULAR PAYROLL ENDING JANUARY 17, 2025
Proclamations 119
4B. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2025 AS NATIONAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Recommended Action: Approve Proclamation.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Proclamations 119
4C. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2 - 8, 2025, AS ORANGE COUNTY
FIRE AUTHORITY BURN WEEK
Recommended Action: Approve Proclamation.
Purchasing 127
4D. PURCHASE AND INST ALLATION OF BATTERY BACKUP SYSTEM UPGRADES FOR VARIOUS TRAFFIC SIGNAL LOCATIONS FOR THE 24-25 ANNUAL BATTERY
BACKUP UPGRADES PROJECT
Recommended Action: 1 ) Authorize the purchase of traffic signal battery backup upgrade equipment from Yunex LLC for the 24-25 Annual Battery Backup Upgrades Project.
APPROVE the recommended action.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 197
Contracts 70 C-3263
4E. COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF ORANGE FOR CITYWIDE
STRIPING AND STENCILING SERVICES
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt a resolution providing an alternative project delivery method for the restriping of various City streets by use of the County of Orange Striping Services pursuant to Buena Park Municipal Code Section 3.28.11 0(E); 2) Approve cooperative agreement with the County of Orange for the Citywide Striping and Stenciling services; 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the agreement; and, 4) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the agreement.
Council Member Franco asked about the last RFP done for Citywide striping and stenciling services; and, the cooperative agreement's possible restrictions from seeking other vendors for the service.
Vice Mayor Traut asked about the quality of striping work by the County of Orange, and turn- around time for striping.
Principal Engineer Alqam indicated that the City entered into a cooperative agreement with the County of Orange in 2021. There have been no solo striping capital improvement projects prior to that time. Principal Engineer Alqam also explained that entering into a cooperative agreement with the County of Orange for the restriping of various City streets does not restrict the City from seeking other vendors. Rather, such agreement would allow the City to utilize County of Orange resources when needed, especially since it is more cost-effective as opposed to advertising to procure a private contractor for such service. Principal Engineer Alqam discussed the County's striping procedure as well as the materials used that are industry-standard. As for turn-around time, striping takes between two weeks to one month to complete. With the approval of the cooperative agreement, County staff will be available to perform the work as needed.
Director of Public Works/City Engineer Mikhael indicated the cooperative agreement is intended to supplement the maintenance until the next resurfacing project. It was also noted that nothing is paid until the City needs to use the County's services.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Traut
Franco
Traut, Franco, Hoque, Sonne, Ahn
None
APPROVE the recommended action.
RESOLUTION NO.14951
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS TO USE ALTERNATIVE PROJECT
DELIVERY AND BID PROCEDURES FOR THE CITYWIDE RESTRIPING OF VARIOUS
STREETS IN THE CITY
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
5. NEW BUSINESS (5A - 5D)
Contracts 70 C-3585 C-3564 C-3103 Public Works Proj. 125 PW-977 PW-967 PW-872 5A. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING SPECIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT WITH
BRIDGEROCK CONSTRUCTION FOR THE NAVIGATION CENTER - WOMEN'S RESTROOM REHABiLIT ATiON PROJECT
Recommended Action: I ) Adopt a resolution approving the specifications for the Navigation Center - Women's Restroom Rehabilitation Project; 2) Award a contract to Bridgerock Construction, Inc. in the amount of $197,920; 3) Authorize contingency funds in the amount of $32,080 in the same purchase order; 4) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the agreement; and, 5) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the agreement.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 498
Assistant Engineer Tran provided a report regarding the specifications and contract with Bridgerock Construction, Inc. for the Navigation Center - Women's Restroom Rehabilitation Project. The City's Navigation Center building houses 150 individuals and operates 24/7. The flooring and shower pans in the women's restroom and two single occupancy restrooms have experienced significant wear and tear and require rehabilitation. The restrooms and shower area flooring will be repaired and replaced with a seamless epoxy finishing. Additionally, new fiberglass reinforced panels and shower fixtures will be installed. The project was advertised for competitive bids on December 18, 2024, and six (6) bids were received and publicly opened on January 16, 2025. Bridgerock Construction, Inc. submitted a bid in the amount of $197,920, possess the necessary licenses, and has successfully completed similar projects for the cities of Azusa and Eastvale, as well as the Metropolitan Water District. Construction is anticipated to begin in February 2025 and completed by April 2025. It was recommended that the City Council award the contract for the Navigation Center - Women's Restroom Rehabilitation Project to Bridgerock Construction, Inc. of La Puente, California, in the amount of $197,920.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Hoque
Sonne
Hoque, Sonne, Franco, Traut, Ahn
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled resolution:
RESOLUTION NO.14952
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING SPECIFICATIONS FOR NAVIGATION CENTER - WOMEN'S RESTROOM
REHABILIT ATION PROJECT IN SAID CITY
Contracts 70 C-3586 Budgets 47
5B. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH SOHN ARCHITECTS FOR THE
FRIENDSHIP PARK KOREAN PAVILION GARDEN AND SUNDIAL PROJECT Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve a Professional Services Agreement with Sohn Architects in amount of $207,580 for the Friendship Park Korean Pavilion Garden and Sundial Project; 2) Dispense with competitive bidding pursuant to Buena Park Municipal Code Section 3.28.050 (H) for the proposed services based on findings that Sohn Architects is uniquely qualified and experienced to perform the services; 3) Appropriate $210,000 from the undesignated General Fund balance to the Friendship Park Improvement Project account; 4) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the agreement prior to execution; and, 5) Authorize the City Manager and the City Clerk to execute the agreement.
Assistant Engineer Lee provided a report regarding a professional services agreement with Sohn Architects for the Friendship Park Korean Pavilion Garden and Sundial Project.
At its January 14, 2025 meeting, City Council directed staff to proceed with the development of the Korean Pavilion Garden and Sundial project at Friendship Park. The proposed Korean Pavilion will serve as a distinctive landmark that reflects Korean heritage and will add a unique cultural element to the City. The accompanying garden will feature various traditional Korean stone sculptures and children's sensory musical instruments designed to engage in interactive activities. A sundial, located to the east of the garden, will not only indicate time but also allow visitors to read the 24 solar terms. This cultural space will provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience Korean culture and history in a meaningful and immersive way.
Assistant Engineer Lee explained the two options for contracting and delivering the project. One option is to solicit competitive proposals from qualified design-build contractors for design and delivery of a turn-key project. The second option is to divide and contract for the project in separate phases. It was noted that because the Korean Pavilion structure will be designed and manufactured in South Korea before being shipped to the City for installation, close collaboration between the design team and the Pavilion manufacturer is critical for successful implementation of the project, particularly because the Pavilion will need to comply with local building code and ADA requirements. Sohn Architects was identified by staff to have the requisite professional design experience, as well as unique experience working directly with Korean companies in the fabrication and delivery of architectural features such as the Pavilion. Sohn Architect will not only perform design and pre-construction work, but also oversee design and fabrication, manage shipping and handling logistics, ensure proper delivery of the Pavilion and related materials, conduct quality control to verify that all materials meet the required standards before shipment, and complete preliminary design work for related on-site improvements. It was recommended that the City Council approve the professional services agreement with Sohn Architects in the amount of $207,580.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 199
Council Member Franco suggested that the project be advertised for competitive bids.
Vice Mayor Traut asked about the reason for waiving the competitive bid process for this particular project.
Assistant Engineer Lee explained that given the highly specialized nature of the project not many firms in the area have the experience or expertise required to perform such a project.
Therefore, the City Council may desire to award a contract directly to a qualified professional as permitted by Buena Park Municipai Code Section 3.28.080.H.
City Attorney Cardinale discussed the award of professional services agreement for projects that exceed $IO0,000 based upon demonstrated experience and capacity to perform the work.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Ahn
Sonne
Ahn, Sonne, Hoque, Traut
Franco
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action.
Environmental Program (Sustainability) 180 Codes 64 Budgets 47 5C. ADOPT AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE USE OF GAS-POWERED LAWN
EQUIPMENT CITYWIDE AND APPROVE A BUDGET APPROPRIATION FOR A
REBATE PROGRAM AND ACQUISITION OF NEW CITY ELECTRIC LAWN
EQUIPMENT
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt an Ordinance regulating the use of gas-powered lawn equipment; 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to finalize the Program Guidelines and make any non-monetary changes to the Program, as necessary; and, 3) Allocate $88,000 from the undesignated General Fund balance for the rebate program and acquisition of new electric lawn equipment for city use.
Sustainability Manager Thai provided a report regarding a proposed Ordinance regulating the use of gas-powered lawn equipment Citywide, and approval of a budget appropriation for a rebate program and acquisition of new City electric lawn equipment. Pursuant to AB 1346, effective January 1, 2024, sale of gas-powered lawn equipment is prohibited in California. While homeowners and businesses will still be permitted to use gas-powered equipment affer that date, they will no longer be able to purchase them in California. At its August 6, 2024 meeting, the Climate Action Commission discussed options for implementation of electric lawn equipment, and recommended to the City Council a multi-year implementation as well as to offer rebates to residents and businesses. Sustainability Manager Thai explained the proposed ordinance that would phase out gas-powered lawn equipment over a three-year period; enforcement will be compliant-based and handled by Code Enforcement; and City-rebate program education and outreach will start immediately. It was recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to finalize the program guidelines and make any non-monetary changes, and allocate $88,000 from the undesignated General Fund balance for the rebate program and acquisition of new City electric lawn equipment.
Council Member Sonne asked about the cost and spending for the rebate program, and discussed her intent of bringing the item forward to improve the quality of life residents in the City by eliminating the negative environmental or noise impact caused by use of gas-powered lawn equipment.
Council Member Hoque asked about alternatives, in case of emergency situations, if the City is unable to use electric lawn equipment; and, available grants to offset the cost of the proposed City rebate program.
Council Member Franco asked about the applicability of the ordinance to commercial businesses, and indicated the need for a study to support the benefit of moving forward with the program.
Mayor Ahn asked for clarification about the equipment costs after the City rebate.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 200
Sustainability Manager Thai explained that the rebate program will carry on until the funds have been depleted and then readjusted as need. If successful, staff may return to the City Council to request additional funds. In emergency situations, the City will have some gas-powered lawn equipment in stock for use as back up. The cost for the rebate program and acquisition of new City electric lawn equipment is already taking into consideration AQMD's rebate program. Staff found that OCPA offers discounted lawn equipment for residents to purchase, but no other organizations were found to support the cost of the proposed program. Moreover, Sustainability Manager Thai indicated that the ordinance describes the plan of phasing out gas-powered lawn equipment over a three-year period and would apply to all businesses. The effective date of the transition to use electric lawn equipment, on the other hand, will depend on the size of the equipment used. Sustainability Manager Thai discussed the requirements to receive the City rebate which involves application and following AQMD's rebate program. Nevertheless, any out- of-pocket cost would depend on the type of electric equipment purchased.
City Manager France spoke regarding the newly awarded agreement with West Coast Arborist pertaining to use of electric tree trimming equipment.
Eduardo Nunez Padilla, Padilla Tree Service owner, spoke regarding the impact or the proposed City rebate program to his business and the customers they serve.
Director of Community and Economic Development Foulkes explained the statewide prohibition of sale of new gas-powered lawn equipment pursuant to AB 1346, and cities are transitioning with their own local implementation.
Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Jimenez acknowledged that the City received an email correspondence from Buena Park resident Victor Perrin in opposition to the item.
Vice Mayor Traut spoke in support of creating incentives for residents and businesses to transition to electric lawn equipment.
MOTION:
SECOND:
Traut
Hoque
MOTION to remove Section 2D, the citation element, of the proposed ordinance.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Traut
Hoque
Traut, Hoque, Franco, Sonne, Ahn
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action and ADOPTED the following title ordinance as amended:
ORDINANCE NO. 17 48
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
REGULATING THE USE OF GAS-POWERED LAWN EQUIPMENT CITYWIDE Codes 64
5D. ADOPT AN ORDINANCE ENACTING LOCAL REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE
OPERATION OF ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND OTHER ELECTRIC MOBILITY DEVICES The City Council will consider adopting an ordinance that prohibits the operation of electric bicycles and similar electric mobility devices on public sidewalks, parks, and similar public places that are intended for pedestrian use or traffic.
Recommended Action: That the City Council 1 ) Adopt an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Buena Park, California, amending various sections of the Buena Park Municipal Code to enact regulations governing the operation of electric bicycles and similar electric mobility devices.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 201
City Attorney Cardinale provided a report regarding a proposed Ordinance enacting local regulations governing the operation of electric bicycles and other electric mobility devices. The Buena Park Municipal Code currently has two sections that regulate the use of bicycles and similar vehicles in various locations throughout the City. In addition, the California Vehicle Code regulates the operation of bicycles upon public roadways. Bicycle operators must generally comply with the same "rules of the road" as other vehicles by, for example, yielding to pedestrians, operating with the flow of traffic, and obeying posted signs. City Attorney Cardinale explained that California law places similar restrictions on the operation of electric bicycles specifically each class. Given the increased popularity of e-bikes in recent years, many local jurisdictions have taken action to regulate or prohibit the use of e-bikes in areas not covered by state law, such as sidewalks, boardwalks, and other public places not subject to the Vehicle Code. The Buena Park Police Department has also observed an increase in calls for service relating to e-bike accidents, which are commonly more severe given the weight and speed of the e-bike. Residents and City officials have observed e-bikes being operated in public parks and other areas not intended for that use, riding against the flow of traffic, failing to yield to pedestrians or vehicles, operating at high rates of speed on sidewalks or roads, carrying passengers on devices not designed or intended for that purpose, and juveniles without appropriate protective helmets or licensing. Furthermore, the Police Department worked with the City Attorney's Office to prepare an ordinance addressing e-bike concerns, and specifically prohibiting the operating of e-bikes of all classes on sidewalks and in public parks, and presented each key provision to the City Council for consideration.
Council Member Sonne asked about the proposed ordinance and its consistency with surrounding cities' ordinance on governing the operation of electric bicycles and other electric mobility devices.
City Attorney Cardinale indicated that the proposed ordinance is modeled to the ordinance adopted by the City of Brea.
Police Chief Nunes stated that cities are implementing regulations in their respective jurisdictions as a response to the published Grand Jury report concerning e-bikes. Additionally, police chiefs in surrounding cities are in agreement that e-bikes should stay off sidewalks and comply with the general "rules of the road." Nevertheless, starting January 1, 2025, the Police Department has been tracking e-bike incidents and could report more accurate numbers in the future.
Council Member Franco asked about reports or complaints regarding e-bikes on City streets and spoke in support of the item with an amendment to the ordinance to keep minors on the sidewalk.
Council Member Hoque asked about Police Department's enforcement strategy when the ordinance comes into effect. Additionally, Council Member Hoque suggested that signs be placed at parks regarding restriction of e-bike use.
Vice Mayor Traut asked about the state law related to bicycles on sidewalks, the rules schools have regarding e-bikes, and the possibility of including a statement in the ordinance allowing the use of e-bikes on sidewalks by minors.
Police Captain Nguyen explained the traffic collisions involving e-bikes in 2023 and 2024. As for enforcement strategy, the Police Department would begin with educating the community on e- bike safety. Once the ordinance is in place and an officer spots a violation, then the individual would be issued a citation. Moreover, bicycles on the sidewalk are a concern but nothing could be enforced because there is currently no rule in place.
City Attorney Cardinale explained that there is no existing state law that prohibits use of e-bikes on sidewalks. They defer to local jurisdictions because sidewalks are considered local property.
MOTION:
SECOND:
Traut
Franco
MOTION to amend the ordinance with the exemption of individuals 18 years old and under subject to operating e-bikes on sidewalks in a reasonably safe manner.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Traut
Franco
Traut, Franco, Hoque, Sonne, Ahn
None
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 202
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled ordinance as amended:
ORDINANCE NO. 17 49
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE BUENA PARK MUNICIPAL CODE TO ENACT
REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE OPERATION OF ELECTRIC BICYCLES SIMILAR ELECTRIC MOBiLITY DEVICES
6. PUBLIC HEARING
There are no Public Hearing items.
7. MAYOR/CITY COUNCIL REPORTS AND CALENDAR
7A. REPORT
Council Member Hoque reported the following:
* January 29 - 31 Cal Cities Mayors and Council Members Academy * February 1 45'h Annual Orange County Black History Parade and Unity Festival * February 5 QC Sanitation District Operations Committee Meeting * February 6 Coloring with a Cop Event
Council Member Hoque calendared a request to seek open space opportunities within District 4.
Council Member Sonne reported the following:
* January 30 49'h Annual Elementary Art Show Awards Reception s January 31 0CLF Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast * February 6 Multicultural Community Leader Briefing with OCPA * February 10 0CPA Board Meeting
Council Member Sonne announced that at its February 10, 2025 meeting, the OCPA Board was notified of receiving approval from CPUC to certify the implementation plan to provide electricity to the City of Fountain Valley starting October 2026. Additionally, the OCPA Board approved an MOU with the County of Los Angeles to participate in the California Energy Commission's Equitable Building Decarbonization Direct Install Program. This program will provide an incentive for low-income households on the installation of all electric appliances, energy efficiency, weatherization measures, and related building upgrades.
Council Member Franco reported the following:
* January 29 - 31 Cal Cities Mayors and Council Members Academy Council Member Franco calendared a discussion on unsignalized crosswalks at the following locations: Western Avenue and 9'h Street; Commonwealth Avenue and Darlington Avenue; Whitaker Street and Indiana Street; and Auto Center Drive and Dale Street. Additionally, Council Member Franco invited the community to the American Legion Post 354 mural unveiling on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
Vice Mayor Traut reported the following:
@ February 1 Jain Center of Southern California LA Fire Fundraiser Vice Mayor Traut and Council Member Hoque jointly calendared an upgrade of Brenner Park.
Mayor Ahn reported the following:
* January 29 BPPD Running Team Tacos Fundraiser
* January 30 49'h Annual Elementary Art Show Awards Reception @ February 1 Jain Center of Southern California LA Fire Fundraiser @ February 3 Buena Park Mayor's Prayer Breakfast Committee Meeting Mayor Ahn indicated attending eight additional community events and meetings and tendered to residents' concerns.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 203
8. RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Ahn recessed the meeting at 7:27 p.m. and announced the meeting would be reconvened in the City Council Chamber. The meeting was reconvened at 7:43 p.m.
9. STUDY SESSION (9A - 9B)
9A. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING THE DISTRICT 4 FLOOD
CONTROL CHANNEL
Homeless Outreach Coordinator Pinedo provided a report regarding the District 4 Flood Control Channel. Flood control channels have long been used as makeshift shelter areas by transient populations, particularly in urban regions where homelessness is a persistent issue. Unhoused individuals offen seek out these flood channels for severai reasons such as they provide a discreet way to travel while staying out of sight, and encampments are more difficult to spot beneath the channels. As a result, many tend to congregate there, allowing them to camp with less visibility to the public. The City of Buena Park's storm drain system includes both regional channels managed by the Orange County Flood Control District (OCFCD) and local drainage facilities maintained by the City. In total, there are 6.5 miles of flood control channels. Homeless Outreach Coordinator Pinedo focused on the challenges at the District 4 Flood Control Channel, which runs along the southern edge of John Beat Park and runs behind residential neighborhoods and apartment complexes. A meeting was held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 to discuss issues regarding the flood control channel and ideas for potential solutions.
Homeless Outreach Coordinator Pinedo discussed key actions taken by BPPD such as increased patrols and presence, enhance collaboration with outreach teams, rapid response to public concerns, and service requests to QC Public Works. Homeless Outreach Coordinator Pinedo indicated the clean-up efforts conducted by both the Police Department and the Homeless Outreach team, and both have been instrumental in addressing ongoing concerns in the flood channel area. The City's next phase will focus on developing long-term strategies through coordinated discussions with regional partners, ensuring ongoing accountability, and effectively managing the flood control channel. Furthermore, staff sought City Council direction on the proposed next steps to address the challenges associated with the District 4 flood control channel.
Council Member Hoque suggested the installation of shepherd hook on top of the iron fence in the subject area, and requested quarterly updates on the status of the improvements at the fiood control channels.
Director of Public Works/City Engineer Mikhael explained the fencing is within the County's jurisdiction; however, the City could request the County to add it to their fencing.
Homeless Outreach Coordinator Pinedo indicated that quarterly updates will be provided to the City Council on improvements at the flood control channels.
Following the discussion, the City Council directed staff to proceed with the proposed next steps necessary to enhance long-term solutions and ensure sustained safety, security and cleanliness at the flood control channels.
9B. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING PUBLIC TREES AND THE
URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
Public Works Manager Hunt provided a report regarding public trees and the urban forest management plan. The City maintains an urban forest comprised of publicly-owned trees planted in parkways and medians and at parks and facilities. The urban forest consists of approximately 10,700 trees, a number which has remained fairly consistent over the last several years. Last year, the City Council approved the Buena Park Public Tree Policy with the objective to fully realize the benefits of trees in public spaces. Nevertheless, there are still a significant number of vacant spots on parkways that could potentially support a tree. Moreover, the Climate Action Commission created "The Benefits of Trees" brochure which has been made available at City facilities and on the City's website to inform residents about the City's plans of planting trees Citywide. A letter notifying property owners of the City's plan to plant new trees is also mailed out to those directly affected. Public Works Manager Hunt discussed the District 4 locations where trees are planned to be planted in the future; staff's recommendation for Arbor Day 2025; and, a path forward to plant more trees in the City. Staff sought City Council direction regarding the proposed locations in District 4 where trees could potentially be planted or to explore other locations.
Minutes February 11, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 204
The City Council asked about the content of the City's letter residents indicating the required care and maintenance of the tree that will be planted; tree options for residents; potential barriers with the desire to plant more trees in the City; Council Member Hoque requested for an update on the trees planted in District 4 after project completion.
Council Member Sonne suggested a more aggressive approach with planting more trees in the City; to seek funding to purchase and maintain trees in parks and parkways; and to emphasize the importance of regularly and properly watering trees in the letter mailed out to residents.
Vice Mayor Traut recommended expanding staff resources to significantly increase the number of tree planting in the City, and for staff to meet with each Council Member to locate the ideal spots in their respective district.
Public Works Manager Hunt indicated that a section of the letter states that the tree is to be maintained by the adjacent property owner. Additionally, staff will provide an update on the trees after they have been planted. Public Works Manager Hunt explained the approved parkway tree list and the possible consideration of tree requests from residents. The challenge the City may face with increasing the number of trees is with staffing and resources, particularly with regularly watering the trees.
Following the discussion, the City Council directed staff to proceed with planting trees at the proposed areas in District 4; and, to meet with each Council Member to identify tree-deficient areas in their respective district for future tree planting activities.
10. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported about the following:
@ The City is currently processing applications for five businesses under the Fagade Improvement Program. Staff will return at a subsequent City Council meeting for a more thorough update.
@ Cancellation of OCFA meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 13, 2025. Instead, a virtual meeting is being scheduled and more information will be provided as soon as it becomes available.
* Groundbreaking Ceremony at 7101 Lincoln Avenue, Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 11:00 a.m.-1 :OO p.m.
@ Meet and Greet with Congressman Derek T. Tran, Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
11. COMMISSION & COMMITTEE UPDATES
Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Jimenez announced the Commission/Committee Training that will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m., in the Main Conference Room.
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Ahn adjourned the meeting at 8:27 p.m.
Mayor
ATTEST: