MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK
HELD FEBRUARY 25, 2025
Vol. 54 Pg. 207
1. GENERAL
The City Council met in a regular session on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber of the Civic Center, 6650 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, California, Mayor Ahn presiding.
1 A. 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 Jonathan Lee, Buena Park Police Department Chaplain. 1 D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Vincent King, WINGS After School Program. 1 E. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported the following:
* Military Banner Program is a no-cost program honoring military services personnel. Banners will be displayed as a public expression of the City's appreciation for the dedication and service of our military members. City Manager France explained the eligibility requirements and application process. Banners will be available on a first come, first served basis. * Middle and High School Art Show Awards Reception, Thursday, February 27, 2025, 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber of the Civic Center. * BP Police Department Community Meeting, Friday, February 28, 2025, 3:00 p.m., 85C Bakery Cafe, Buena Park.
* Heroes and Happy Meals Community Event, Thursday, March 6, 2025, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m., at the McDonalds at 5900 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park.
Assistant City Clerk Almquist provided information regarding the 2025 Passport Walk-ins that will be offered starting on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 through Thursday, August 28, 2025, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Buena Park City Hall. For passport- reiated questions, please contact the Passport Services Division at (714) 562-3758.
Sustainability Manager Thai announced the Buena Park Trash cART contest sponsored by EDCO. Participants are to use upcycled, repurposed, and recycled materials to transform an ordinary trash cart into an eye-catching trash-terpiece that spreads awareness about this year's theme Food Waste. Sustainability Manager Thai explained the contest mechanics, process, and judging at the 2025 Spring Eggstravaganza and Sustainability Fair. For questions about the contest, please contact Sustainability Manager Thai at [email protected].
Minutes February 25, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 208
2. PRESENT ATIONS
2A. WINGS AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM MUSICAL PRESENTATION Community Services Coordinator Van Sickle introduced the students of the Savanna Elementary School District's WINGS Affer School Program.
Savanna Elementary School District Superintendent Dr. Sue Johnson thanked the City Council for their support in the WINGS After School Program.
Savanna Elementary School District's WINGS After School Program students performed a few songs for the meeting attendees.
2B. PRESENTATION HONORING LINDA AND MIKE WEINSTOCK AS THE 2025
AMERICANA CITIZENS OF THE YEAR FOR BUENA PARK
Cypress College Foundation Executive Director Howard Kummerman provided a presentation honoring Linda and Mike Weinstock as the 2025 Americana Citizens of the Year for Buena Park.
Senior Field Representative Joe Pak, on behalf of Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva, presented a certificate recognizing Linda and Mike Weinstock as the 2025 Americana Citizens of the Year for Buena Park.
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 - 4G)
Mayor Ahn announced that Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4A through 4G 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 - 4G:
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Sonne
Franco
Sonne, Franco, Hoque, Traut, Ahn
None
MOTION CARRIED that all actions recommended on Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4A - 4G be approved.
Minutes
4A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Recommended Action: Approve the Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings of January 28, 2025, and Special and Regular City Council Meetings of February 11, 2025.
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. 14953
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERT AIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1 ,648,065.36 DEMAND NOS., 429044 THROUGH 429239 CANCELLED NOS 428083, 428232, AND 428239
Minutes February 25, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 209
RESOLUTION NO. 14954
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $19,595.14 COVERING RETiREE PAYROLL ENDING DECEMBER 3j, 2024
RESOLUTION N0. 14955
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1 ,084,098.37 COVERING REGULAR PAYROLL ENDING JANuARY 31 , 2025
Reports & Studies 129
4C. TREASURER'S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2025 Recommended Action: Receive and file the reports.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3572 Public Works Proj. 125 PW-972 4D. FINAL PAYMENT TO THE WATER HEATER WAREHOUSE, LLC FOR THE WATER
HEATER REPLACEMENTS AT VARIOUS FACILITIES PROJECT
Recommended Action: 1 ) Accept the project as complete and approve a final payment to Water Heater Warehouse, LLC in the amount of $2,81 2; and, 2) Direct the Public Works Department to file a Notice of Completion.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3589
4E. LICENSEAGREEMENTWITHENVIRONMENTALSYSTEMSRESEARCHINSTITUTE, INC. (ESRI) FOR GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) SERVICES Recommended Action: 1 ) Dispense with competitive bidding pursuant to Buena Park Municipal Code Sections 3.28.080 (C) and 3.28.080 (H) for the proposed services; 2) Approve an agreement with ESRI in the amount of $201,000 for GIS 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.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Finance 75
4F. RESOLUTIONAPPROVINGTHECITYOFBUENAPARKSTATEMENTOF
INVESTMENT POLICY DATED FEBRUARY 25, 2025
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt a resolution approving the City of Buena Park Statement of Investment Policy dated February 25, 2025.
APPROVED the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled resolution:
RESOLUTION N0. 14956
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
AUTHORIZING THE CITY TREASURER TO INVEST FOR SAFEKEEPING IDLE MONEY OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE "STATEMENT OF INVESTMENT POLICY" DATED FEBRUARY 25, 2025
Audits 40 Reports & Studies 129
4G. ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT (ACFR) FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
Recommended Action: 1 ) Receive and file the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the year ended June 30, 2024.
APPROVED the recommended action.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
Minutes February 25, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 210
5. NEW BUSINESS (5A)
Contracts 70 C-3590
5A. MEMORANDUMOFUNDERSTANDING(MOU)BETWEENTHECITYOFBUENA
PARK AND KUKKIWON CALIFORNIA, LLC TO PROMOTE MUTUAL
UNDERSTANDING AND COOPERATION IN SPREADING TAEKWONDO CULTURE
AND BRINGING COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TO THE BUENA
PARK COMMUNITY
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Buena Park and Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in spreading Taekwondo culture and bringing community and economic development to the Buena Park community; 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the agreement; and, 3) Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the agreement.
Assistant City Manager Fenton provided a report regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Buena Park and Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC. Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC is proposing to promote Taekwondo culture and its educational value within the community; support the growth and activation of Taekwondo programs in Buena Park; enhance regional publicity through international Taekwondo events and cultural exchanges; consider Taekwondo education in Buena Park's local elementary and middle schools; and, strive to increase tourism, and promote and recommend that Program participants utilize local Buena Park hotels, restaurants, and businesses during tournaments and events. In exchange, Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC is seeking an agreement with the City for use of City banquet facilities, at no cost, to be used for Taekwondo events. In addition, the City would provide promotional efforts within the community and encourage community participation in their Taekwondo programs. The proposed MOU is for a two-year period allowing Kukkiwon California, LLC usage of City banquet facilities on five occasions per year based on availability, advance scheduling, and requiring Kukkiwon California to enter into and comply with Buena Park's standard facility use agreement. Any additional reservation requests, other than what has been agreed by both parties, will be paid at the current facility rates. It was recommended that the City Council adopt a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Buena Park and Kukkiwon California Branch, for use of City banquet facilities on five occasions per year based on availability and advanced scheduling.
Vice Mayor Traut asked about potential additional dates that Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC is interested in booking outside of the MOU.
Mr. Jinseob Kim, Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC Chairman, indicated the organization's plan to hold more events in Buena Park in addition to the five dates presented, and the organization's willingness to pay the current facility rates to hold additional events.
Yong Choi, Buena Park resident and business owner, spoke in opposition to the adoption of the MOU with Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC because of its impact to local Taekwondo businesses.
Joe Pak spoke regarding September 4 as California Taekwondo Day legislated by Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva and the benefits of Taekwondo to the youth.
Mayor Ahn requested staff to explain the discussion and direction provided by the City Council at the January 28, 2025 meeting regarding the MOU with Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC.
Assistant City Manager Fenton summarized Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC's intention to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in spreading Taekwondo culture and bringing community and economic development to the Buena Park community. At the January 28, 2025 Regular City Council meeting, staff presented the proposed activities such as overseeing Dan certificate examinations and issuance, providing guidance and support for international instructor qualifications, providing Kukkiwon-certified Taekwondo programs and instructor training, hosting Taekwondo seminars, events, and international certification programs; and strengthening collaboration with local Taekwondo schools. Following City Council discussion, staff was directed to draff an MOU with Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC for a term not to exceed two years, including use of up to five event spaces per year pending availability, and return at a future City Council meeting for formal approval. Additionally, Assistant City Manager Fenton clarified that Dan certificate examinations are to be facilitated by Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC and the City does not have authority to issue Dan certificates.
Minutes February 25, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 211
Council Member Franco asked about Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC's association with other Taekwondo businesses and community groups in the area; the MOU's direct benefit to Buena Park residents; and, affordability of City facility use for businesses.
Council Member Hoque asked about the economic benefit of the MOU, and recommended that the City Council adopt the proposed two-year MOU with year 2 being contingent upon the economic impact of Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC's events. Moreover, Council Member Hoque requested staff provide the City Council Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC's program curriculum for a better understanding of the organization's events plan.
Assistant City Manager Fenton explained that the MOU's economic benefit is the revenue the City will gain from the event participants staying in hotels and dining in restaurants in Buena Park on the dates presented. Event participants will be encouraged to stay and dine in the City.
Assistant City Manager Fenton also discussed the fees associated with renting City banquet facilities.
Vice Mayor Traut spoke in favor of the opportunity to attract new businesses and organizations for the purpose of economic development in the City; and, in support of Council Member Hoque's recommendation to review and evaluate the economic impact of the MOU at the conclusion of its first year and the second year be contingent upon the success of the events.
Mayor Ahn spoke in support of Council Member Hoque's recommendation to review and evaluate the economic impact of the MOU at the conclusion of its first year and the second year be contingent upon the success of the events; and, reopened public comment.
Yong Choi, Buena Park resident and business owner, spoke regarding his concerns with Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC' s Dan certification and Taekwondo festival; and, the direct benefit of the MOU to the City.
Assistant City Manager Fenton explained that the language on the MOU states that Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC will promote and recommend participants to book at Buena Park hotels.
However, nothing indicates requiring them to stay at Buena Park hotels.
Council Member Franco spoke in support of Council Member Hoque's recommendation and suggested that Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC work with local Taekwondo schools in promoting the Taekwondo culture and its educational value within the community.
Council Member Sonne stated her understanding of the concerns raised, and anticipated the revenue that the business would bring to the City. Council Member Sonne also agreed with other Council Members' comments regarding a possible termination of the MOU if there is no actual economic impact to the City.
Mayor Ahn recommended adding a section to the MOU for Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC to abide by the City's policy for use of the City logo.
MOTION:
SECOND:
Hoque
Traut
MOTION to approve a two-year MOU contingent upon a review of the economic benefits of Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC, upon the first year and require Kukkiwon California Branch, LLC to abide by the City's policy for use of the City logo.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Hoque
Traut
Hoque, Traut, Franco, Sonne, Ahn
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action.
6. PUBLIC HEARING
There are no Public Hearing items.
Minutes February 25, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 212
7. MAYOR/CITY COUNCIL REPORTS AND CALENDAR
7A. REPORT
Council Member Hoque reported the following:
* February 12 Sit-Along with Dispatch
* February 18 Groundbreaking Ceremony for 7101 Lincoln Avenue @ February 19 QC Sanitation District Orientation Board Meeting * February 19 BP Police Appreciation Brunch
* February 20 QC Mosquito and Vector Control District Board Meeting * February 24 Guest Speaker at Oxford Academy
Council Member Hoque and Vice Mayor Traut jointly calendared to pursue outreach efforts for senior services in senior mobile home communities. Also, Council Member Hoque thanked Director of Community and Economic Development Foulkes for his great work on the affordable housing development at 7101 Lincoln Avenue.
Council Member Sonne reported the following:
* February 13 Silverado Day's Grants Luncheon
* February 18 Groundbreaking Ceremony for 7101 Lincoln Avenue * February 19 BP Police Appreciation Brunch
* February 20 Black Chamber of Commerce Future Leaders Luncheon * February 21 Swearing In Ceremony for Congressman Derek Tran * February 22 American Legion 354 Leave No One Behind Mural Unveiling Council Member Sonne calendared increasing fines for illegal fireworks based on state health and safety codes; and, discussion on creating a truck idling ordinance for residential neighborhoods adjacent to commercial buildings.
Council Member Franco reported the following:
* February 21 American Legion 354 Leave No One Behind Mural Unveiling * February 21 Swearing In Ceremony for Congressman Derek Tran Vice Mayor Traut reported the following:
* February 18 Groundbreaking Ceremony for 7101 Lincoln Avenue @ February 19 BP Police Appreciation Brunch
Vice Mayor Traut calendared a review of South Coast AQMD's proposed amended Rules 1111 and 1121 prior to the South Coast AQMD vote in April.
Mayor Ahn reported the following:
* February 12 Centralia Elementary School District Board Meeting * February 13 Silverado Day's Grants Luncheon
@ February 18 Groundbreaking Ceremony for 7101 Lincoln Avenue * February 18 Meet-and-Greet Congressman Derek Tran * February 19 BP Police Appreciation Brunch
* February 21 Swearing In Ceremony for Congressman Derek Tran * February 22 American Legion 354 Leave No One Behind Mural Unveiling Mayor Ahn reported attending nine community-related events and meetings.
8. RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Ahn recessed the meeting at 6:25 p.m. and announced the meeting would be reconvened in the City Council Chamber. The meeting was reconvened at 6:33 p.m.
Minutes February 25, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 213
9. STUDY SESSION (9A - 9B)
9A. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTiON REGARDING THE CITY'S MID-YEAR BUDGET Director of Finance Hyun provided a report regarding the City's mid-year budget. Director Hyun reviewed the results from FY 2023-24 and projected results for FY 2024-25; and, appropriated carryover requests from FY 2023-24 to FY 2024-25 and mid-year budget adjustment requests for FY 2024-025. Director Hyun compared the General Fund Revenues from FY 2022-23 to FY 2023-24, and General Fund Expenditures from FY 2022-23 to FY 2023-24, and explained the General Fund Balance for FY 2023-24, Workers' Compensation Self-Insurance Fund, Public Liability Self-Insurance Fund, Accrued Leave Fund, and other funds. Director Hyun discussed General Fund Revenues and Expenditures for FY 2024-25, as well as carryover requests and mid-year requests pertaining to various City departments and other funds.
City Manager France indicated the passing of Measure R, a one percent (1%) local transactions and use tax (local sales tax); and, explained the top priorities identified by the community.
Assistant City Manager Fenton discussed staff's recommendations on Measure R fund allocation for municipal services and priorities identified by the residents. This includes proposed positions for the Police Department; proposed positions for Public Works Department; proposed positions for Human Resources Department; and, proposed capital improvement projects.
Council Member Hoque requested staff explore options to permanently fund the two police officer positions budgeted using the state law enforcement grant fund.
Assistant City Manager Fenton stated that Council Member's Hoque request would be incorporated in the budget and presented to the City Council for formal approval.
Following the discussion, the City Council directed staff to move forward with the appropriation of funds as indicated on the carryover and mid-year budget requests. 9B. DESIGNATE A COUNCIL MEMBER AS THE CITY'S VOTING DELEGATE AND
ALTERNATE VOTING DELEGATE FOR THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS (SCAG) 2025 GENERAL ASSEMBLY BUSINESS
SESSION
Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Jimenez provided a report regarding the upcoming Southern California Association of Government (SCAG)'s 2025 General Assembly scheduled for May 1- 2, 2025, in Palm Desert. The General Assembly Delegate Representative for Buena Park has an opportunity to propose any policy matter for determination by the General Assembly in the form of a proposed Resolution, and revisions to SCAG Bylaws. Staff will report to the City Council once additional information regarding proposed resolutions is received. Furthermore, Director Jimenez sought City Council direction to designate a Council Member as the City's voting delegate and alternate voting delegate for the Southern California Association of Government (SCAG) General Assembly Business Session by City Council Minute action.
The City Council designated Council Member Franco as the City's voting delegate and Vice Mayor Traut as alternate voting delegate.
10. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported the following:
* Snacks and Sustainability - Spring into Action, Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., PD Community Room.
11. COMMISSION & COMMITTEE UPDATES
Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Jimenez had nothing to report.
Minutes February 25, 2025 Vol. 54 Pg. 214
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Ahn adjourned the meeting at 7:05 p.m. l
ATTEST:
City Clerk