MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK
HELD MAY 12, 2026
1. GENERAL
Vol. 55 Pg. 189
The City Council met in a regular session on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 5:03 p.m. in the City Council Chamber of the Civic Center, 6650 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, California, Mayor Traut presiding.
1 A.
1 B.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Ahn, Franco, Sonne (teleconference), Hoque, Traut ABSENT: None
Also present were: Aaron France, City Manager; Chris Cardinale, City Attorney; and Adria M. Vicuria, MMC, Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk. 1 C. INVOCATION
The Invocation was led by Assistant City Manager/Director of Human Resources Eddie Fenton. 1 D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge or Allegiance was led by Ellie Estrada, Buena Park Middle School. 1 E. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported on the following:
* Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Vicuria provided information regarding the June 2, 2026 Direct Primary Election, and key services and resources avaiiable to Buena Park voters. For any election-related questions, residents may contact the City Clerk's Office at (714) 562-3750 or [email protected], or visit the QC Registrar of Voters website at www.ocvote.gov.
@ 45'h Annual Memorial Day Remembrance Service, May 25, 2026, 10:00 a.m. at Ehlers Event Center in front of the Veterans Memorial.
* Police Department Open House, May 30, 2026, 11 :OO a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Civic Center. @ Older Americans Art Exhibit in the Council Chamber. @ Public Employees Celebrations: Municipal Clerks Week, Building Safety Month, and Public Works Week.
@ Video celebrating Public Works Week.
2. PRESENT ATIONS
2A. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 2026 AS PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL MONTH
Mayor Traut presented a Proclamation recognizing May 2026 as Peace Officers Memorial Month to Interim Police Chief Geyer, who accepted the Proclamation on behalf of the Buena Park Police Department.
Interim Police Chief Geyer thanked the City Council for the Proclamation, and invited the community to join the BP Police Department in observing the Hour of Remembrance on May 13, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the police memorial located in Front of the Police Department to honor the fallen police personnel.
Minutes May 12, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg 190
2B. PRESENT ATION OF THE 2026 MYRNA HOLMQUIST COMMUNICATIONS
SCHOLARSHIPS
Council Members Ahn and Franco presented the 2026 Myrna Holmquist Communications scholarships to Brilynn Martin, Natalie Stark, Kenneth Eisley Sioson Roman, Liam Gallego, and Jose Ramirez.
Legislative representatives from Senator Umberg's Office and Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva's Office presented certificates recognizing the 2026 Myrna Holmquist Communications scholarship recipients.
3A. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Traut announced the public may at this time address the members of the City Council on any matters within the jurisdiction of the City Council.
David Dunn, Buena Park Community Chorus, spoke regarding Buena Park Community Chorus Sing Along event on June 14, 2026, 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Ehlers Event Center in celebration of Flag Day and to kick off the 250'h Anniversary of Independence through a family sing-along featuring some of America's most cherished patriotic songs.
Tomas Castro, Climate Action Campaign, spoke regarding a recommendation to the City Council to support legislation on energy affordability.
There being no additional requests to speak, Mayor Traut closed oral communications.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR (4A - 4G)
Mayor Traut 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:
Traut
Ahn
Traut, Ahn, Franco, Hoque, Sonne
None
MOTION CARRIED that all actions recommended on Consent Calendar Item Nos. 4A - 4G be approved.
Minutes
4A. APPROVALOFMINUTES
Recommended Action: Approve the Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings of April 14, 2026; and, the Special and Regular City Council Meetings of April 28, 2026.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Finance 75
4B. RESOLUTIONS APPROVING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt Resolutions approving the Claims and Demands.
ADOPTED the following titled resolutions:
RESOLUTION NO. 15108
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERT AIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $2,048,340.20 DEMAND NOS. 435528 THROUGH 435770 CANCELLED NOS. 434520, 435224 AND 435322 RESOLUTION NO. 15109
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $19,019.37 COVERING RETIREE PAYROLL ENDING APRIL 30, 2026
Minutes May 12, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 191
RESOLUTION NO. 15110
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1,189,310.65 COVERING REGULAR PAYROLL ENDING APRIL 24, 2026
Proclamations 119
4C. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 2026 AS PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL MONTH
Recommended Action: Approve proclamation.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Proclamations 119
4D. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 3-9, 2026, AS PROFESSIONAL MUNICIPAL
CLERKS WEEK
Recommended Action: Approve proclamation.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Proclamations 119
4E. PROCLAMATIONRECOGNIZINGMAYl7-23,2026,ASNATIONALPUBLICWORKS WEEK
Recommended Action: Approve proclamation.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Proclamations 119
4F. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 2026 AS BUILDING SAFETY MONTH Recommended Action: Approve proclamation.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3680 Police Dept. 117
4G. CANINE RETIREMENT AGREEMENT WITH OFFICER CAMERON BOYER TO
TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OF POLICE SERVICE DOG ADAM TO HIS CARE Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve an agreement transferring ownership and responsibility for Police Service Dog "Adam" from the City of Buena Park to his handler, Officer Cameron Boyer; 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any non-monetary changes to the agreement; and, 3) Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Agreement.
The City Council recognized the canine retirement of Police Service Dog Adam.
Buena Park Police Officer Boyer thanked the City Council for approving the transfer of ownership and responsibility for Retired Police Service Dog Adam to him.
APPROVED the recommended action.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
5. NEW BUSINESS (5A)
Contracts 70 C-3681 Grants 185
5A. RESTRICTEDPROJECTAGREEMENT(GRANT202601)WITHPROVIDENCE ST. JUDE HOSPIT AL FOR 2026 GRANT FUNDING
Presented by Maddie Villapando, Community Services Supervisor Recommended Action: I ) Approve the Restricted Project Grant Agreement with Providence St. Jude Hospital in the amount of $10,000; 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, nonmonetary changes to the agreement; and, 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the agreement.
Minutes May 12, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 192
Community Services Supervisor Villapando provided a report regarding the Restricted Project Agreement with Providence St. Jude Hospital for grant funding for the Literacy Walk Pilot Program at Heroes Park. Providence St. Jude Hospital provides grant funding opportunities through its community benefit program to support initiatives that advance health equity and encourage healthy lifestyles. The City applied for $10,000 in grant funds to support implementation of this pilot program and offset project costs. The proposed Literacy Walk at Heroes Park is designed to promote early childhood literacy and physical activity through an interactive outdoor reading experience featuring story panels along a walking route for children and families. The grant period runs from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, and funds must be used in accordance with the terms outlined in the agreement. It was noted that the project supports the City's goals of enhancing park amenities, promoting community health, and offering innovative programming while aligning with partnerships with local schools and community organizations.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Ahn
Hoque
Ahn, Hoque, Franco, Sonne, Traut
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action.
6. PUBLIC HEARING
No Public Hearing.
7. COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS, CONFERENCE REPORTS AND
CALENDAR REQUESTS
7A. REPORT
Council Member Sonne reported the following:
* May 7 0CPA Board Meeting
Council Member Sonne indicated that at its May 7, 2026 0CPA Board meeting, the Board started the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget review; approved a contract amendment with Reveille, Inc. for communications, marketing, strategy, public engagement, digital, and graphic design services; and, conducted required public hearing for employee vacancies, recruitment and retention efforts.
Council Member Franco reported the following:
@ NOCROP Student Ambassador Visit
* May 2 Arbor Day at Bellis Park
- OCTA Ride
* SCAG Regional Conference and General Assembly
* Buena Park Library Book Ciub
Council Member Franco reported attending the 2026 SCAG Regional Conference and General Assembly, and discussed participating in sessions regarding upcoming major international events, continued investment in housing and mobility initiatives, legislative advocacy, and collaboration with local governments to advance long-term regional planning through Connect SoCal 2050 and other strategic programs.
Council Member Ahn reported the following:
* May 6 Buena Park Business Visits with Congressman Tran in Celebration of AAPI Month * May 6 QC Sanitation District Operations Board Meeting Council Member Ahn also reported attending three local nonprofit events and addressed various issues concerning BP residents and businesses.
Vice Mayor Hoque reported the following:
* April 29 Youth Microgrant Program Ad Hoc Committee Meeting * May 2 Arbor Day at Bellis Park
* May 7 John Beat Park Meeting
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Mayor Traut reported the following:
* April 29 Youth Microgrant Program Ad Hoc Committee Meeting * May 1 May Day Event at Knott's Berry Farm
* May 2 Arbor Day at Bellis Park
* May 4 Guest Speaker for Professor Balma's Class at Fullerton College * May 6 Buena Park Boys and Girls Club Committee Meeting @ May 12 0CFA Operations Committee Meeting
Mayor Traut provided an update about the May 12, 2026 0CFA Operations Committee meeting wherein the Board discussed the approval of a new Fire Engine for Station 63 in the first quarter of 2027; and, recruitment for a new EMS Director.
8. RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Traut recessed the meeting at 6:46 p.m. and announced the meeting would be reconvened in the City Council Chamber. The meeting was reconvened at 7:03 p.m.
9. STUDY SESSION (9A - 9D)
9A. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING THE DISTRICT 2 POCKET PARK
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
Presented by Jaden Miller, Principal Engineer
Principal Engineer Miller presented the District 2 Pocket Park Improvements Project.
On December 11, 2025, RJM hosted a community outreach workshop at the Buena Park Community Center, supplemented by an online engagement effort. Participants provided feedback that was then considered in the conceptual design. Participants were also invited to propose potential names for the park, and 'Coyote Park' was the highly suggested park name.
Principal Engineer Miller explained City Council Policy Statement No. 30 as it relates to memorializing naming structures and that the name "Coyote Park" meets the criteria by representing a strong local connection for the coyote is Buena Park High School's mascot, making it a widely recognized and unifying symbol within the community. Principal Engineer Miller explained the construction cost estimate in the amount of $900,105 with a 15% design contingency in the amount of $135,016, for a total amount of $1,035,121. Staff sought City Council direction to approve the conceptual plan; authorize staff to proceed with preparation of Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E); and approve the name of the new park as Coyote Park.
Eric Curran, RJM Design Group, Inc., reported on the park's existing conditions: opportunities, constraints, and site analysis. Moreover, Mr. Curran discussed the updated conceptual plan, and renderings, which integrated the community and commission feedback.
The City Council discussed: the significance and symbolism of the coyote in Native American cultures; incorporating small play elements for the children in the neighborhood; addition of shade structures; installation of seven educational plaques with QR codes around the park; the purchase and planting of more mature trees to provide additional shade; and, design and functional elements of the park.
Following the discussion, the City Council approved the name of the new park as Coyote Park; and, directed staff to incorporate historical significance and symbolism of the coyote in Native American cu!tures in park elements; purchase and plant more mature trees to provide additional shade; install small play elements such as hopscotch, tic tac toe, a maze, and natural play boulders; and, seven educational plaques with QR codes linking historical information about the park.
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9B. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING A LOCAL BUILDING ENERGY CODE UPDATE (B.O.L.T.)
Presented by Lotus Thai, Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager Thai discussed the proposed Building Optimization and Long-Term Transition (B.O.L.T.) program and how it would implement new local "reach code" requirements to support the City's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing building electrification. The proposed program includes two components: a "Flex Path" for existing single-family homes undergoing major remodels and an AC to HP (air conditioning to heat pump) requirement encouraging heat pump installation in existing non-residential (commercial) buildings. With Fiex Path, a proposed renovation or remodel of an existing single-family home that exceeds a specified construction valuation threshold would be required to incorporate energy efficiency or electrification measures selected from a flexible set of options. Depending on the additional energy improvements chosen, compliance with the B.O.L.T. program could cost an additional $5,880 to $20,730 to comply, and could result in an annual energy bill savings of $200 to $1,000. The AC to HP for existing non-residential buildings would require existing office building, retail location, grocery store, or financial institution to install a heat pump when they replace an HVAC unit that is 6-10 tons. The Climate Action Commission met on April 7, 2026 and recommended that the City Council adopt the B.O.L.T. Program and to set a residential construction valuation threshold at $40,000. Staff also conducted two community outreach webinars to present an overview of the program, gather input to better understand community needs, and respond to questions. One webinar focused on the non-residential AC to HP program, and the other covered the residential Flex Path option. The non-residential webinar had four attendees, while the residential webinar had 35 attendees. Action E2c of the CAAP calls for educating the community on electric appliances.
Staff sought City Council direction on whether to continue the development of the B.O.L.T.
Program or to revisit B.O.L.T. Program discussion after additional funding programs have been developed.
Pam Makino, Buena Park resident, spoke regarding attending the informative community outreach webinar and requested the City Council make the program optional rather than mandatory.
Tomas Castro, Climate Action Campaign, spoke in support of the B.O.L.T. Program and encouraged the City Council to approve its implementation.
The City Council asked about the provisions of AB 130 as it relates to reach codes; backlog with California Building Standards Commission; grant funding deadlines to support rebates and incentives; Title 24 requirement of heat pump installation for new residential and commercial developments; and, adoption of reach codes, energy efficiency mandates, and electrification standards for commercial properties. Moreover, the City Council discussed OCPA's administration of the equitable building decarbonization grant; QC Go Solar's efforts for consumers to access to affordable and equitable clean energy solutions; reservations about implementing the program due to current economic climate; Buena Park as a working-class community and residents may be unable to afford the additional costs associated with renovations and compliance requirements; refusal to mandate residents of a reach code program; and, recommendation to educate the community about existing rebates or incentives on energy-efficient upgrades.
Sustainability Manager Thai explained AB 130 only applies to residential zones. The California Building Standards Commission has not reviewed nor approved any post-AB 130 items such as the implementation of a B.O.L.T. Program. If the City Council proceeds with the program, staff will prepare ordinances for City Council consideration. If adopted, the City will submit the amendments to the California Building Standards Commission for its review and approval. The B.O.L.T. program would not go into effect until after the Building Standards Commission approves the amendments. As for the existing rebates and incentives, grants will be awarded until available funding is exhausted. To address the income variability and affordability of the program, Sustainability Manager Thai indicated that this would qualify under the hardship exception and the City Council has discretion to establish additional compliance exemptions and program requirements as needed.
Amy Discher, Southern California Edison, indicated funding is available both for residential and commercial customers. Applicants need to meet certain qualifications depending on the rebate program.
Minutes May 12, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 195
Building and Safety Manager Ibarra explained that Title 24 requires heat pumps for new construction of residential and commercial buildings; and, the implementation of energy efficiency measures or "reach codes" for both residential and non-residential properties.
Because non-residential properties remain completely unaffected by AB 130, staff could provide information to the City Council about jurisdictions similar to Buena Park's reach code implementation specifically for non-residential.
Following the discussion, the City Council directed staff to educate the community about existing rebates and incentives programs for energy-efficient upgrades; return with information on AB 130 approvals, OCPA rebate programs, and project implementation via the City Manager Weekly; return with information on other jurisdictions' reach code implementation for non- residential buildings; and, promote participation in QC Goes Solar's affordable solar energy and home electrification program.
RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Traut recessed the meeting at 8:36 p.m. and announced the meeting would be reconvened in the City Council Chamber. The meeting was reconvened at 8:46 p.m. 9C. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING THE MAY 14, 2026, CITY
SELECTION COMMITTEE MEETING APPOINTMENTS
Presented by Jessica Fewer, Sr. Management Analyst
Sr. Management Analyst Fewer provided a report regarding appointments being considered and voted on for the Orange County City Selection Committee for District 4, and announced that the meeting will be held on May 14, 2026. Respective candidates for District 4 include the Housing and Community Development Commission, Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), and Orange County Emergency Medical Care Committee. No nominations were made for City Selection Committee Chair or Vice Chair. Therefore, nominations will be taken from the floor at the City Selection meeting. It was requested that the City Council discuss and provide direction to the Mayor regarding appointments being considered and voted on for the Orange County City Selection Committee.
The City Council directed the Mayor to vote for the incumbent candidates for the Housing & Community Development Commission, and for the only candidates running for positions on the Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) and Orange County Emergency Medical Care Committee.
9D. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING THE CITY'S ANIMAL CONTROL
SERVICES CONTRACT
Presented by Eddie Fenton, ASsiStant City Manager/Director of Human Resources Assistant City Manager/Director of Human Resources Fenton discussed the City's animal control services contract. The Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA) has provided animal control services for the City of Buena Park since July 1, 2008, and the current, annual contract that runs concurrently with the Fiscal year provides a dedicated field officer, licensing collection, and shelter services for Buena Park. Historically, SEAACA offset contract costs by collecting animal licensing revenue on the City's behalf and guaranteeing a set revenue amount.
Beginning in July, SEAACA removed the guaranteed revenue model and required payment of the full gross contract cost, resulting in a more than 30% increase from $665,431 in FY 2024- 2025 to $869,890 in the current fiscal year. Staff noted that SEAACA did not discuss the contract change prior to issuing the new agreement. The revised contract stated that SEAACA would retain all licensing fees collected up to the guaranteed amount of $167,000. After that minimum was met, the City would split the excess with SEAACA. Nevertheless, City staff was able to negotiate new language to indicate that the City would retain all licensing fees collected up to $167,000 in order to offset City costs; and evenly split any excess revenue received over this amount. Assistant City Manager/Director of Human Resources Fenton stated that the City has experienced a decline in service levels from SEAACA; and City staff and residents reported unsatisfactory responses and a lack of updates regarding the status of their calls. Considering all ongoing challenges with SEAACA, City staff explored several options for animal control services one of which was to contract with QC Animal Care. Based on Buena Park's size and density compared to other cities they service, Buena Park's estimated contract cost could be up to $1.2 million annually. Staff also reached out to the City of La Habra For field services and expressed they are open to exploring the option of contracting services and have provided staff with a very high-level estimate cost of $250,000 per year. An additional option would be for the Minutes May 12, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 196
City to establish its own field services and/or animal shelter. While additional study would be needed to determine staffing needs specific to Buena Park, a staffing model similar in scale to La Habra could cost approximately the same as contracting with La Habra, or about $250,000 with additional one-time and ongoing costs for vehicles, equipment, and building and operating a shelter added to the overall cost. Staff sought City Council direction on whether to proceed with one of the Animal Control options presented.
The City Council discussed the consideration to remain with SEAACA and work with the new leadership to address issues being experienced by Buena Park and other cities for the short- term; and, ongoing concerns regarding experienced decrease in service levels from SEAACA.
Also, the City Council asked about previous year's data regarding calls for service received and responded to.
Assistant City Manager Fenton indicated that staff requested data on calls for service and similar inquiries. Staff was informed that SEAACA is upgrading its technology systems to get the data.
City Manager France indicated other cities have similar sentiments as Buena Park with regards to SEAACA's services. City of Norwalk is conducting a comprehensive audit of SEAACA and results will be shared with Buena Park and other contract cities.
Following the discussion, the City Council requested staff provide an update about the audit results when it becomes available and return for discussion at a subsequent City Council meeting.
10. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported on the following:
@ Public Works BBQ Luncheon, May 21, 2026, 11 :30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the City Yard. * May26,2026BudgetStudySessionat1:OOp.m.followedbytheSpecialCityCouncil Meeting and Regular City Council Meeting.
11. COMMISSION & COMMITTEE UPDATES
Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk Vicuria had nothing to report.
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Traut adjourned the meeting at 9:14 p.m.
A'nEST:
City Clerk
Mayor