MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK
HELD JULY 14, 2026
Vol. 55 Pg. 237
1. GENERAL
The City Council met in a regular session on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber of the Civic Center, 6650 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, California, Mayor Traut presiding.
1 A. CALL TO ORDER
1 B. ROLL CALL
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
Ahn, Franco, Sonne, Hoque (teleconference), Traut
None
Vice Mayor Hoque participated remotely under the Just Cause provision of the CA Government Code §54954.8.3.
Also present were: Aaron France, City Manager; Chris Cardinale, City Attorney; and Adria M. Vicuria, MMC, Director of Government and Community Relations/City Clerk.
I C. INVOCATION
The Invocation was led by Eddie Fenton, Assistant City Manager/Director of Human Resources.
I D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Roman Ramirez, Buena Park Summer Day Camper. 1 E. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager France reported on the following:
* Summer Concerts Series: Soto Band, July 15, 2026, at Boisseranc Park @ Dive-In Movie: Surf's Up, July 16, 2026, at Peak Park Pool. Pool opens at 7:30 p.m. and movie starts at 8:30 p.m. Contact Community Services for pre-registration. * Super Senior Saturday, August 8, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m, at Ehlers Event Center. * Chamber Art Exhibit featuring the Silvestri Brothers. * Sustainability Manager Thai announced the City's Energy Expo Lumipalooza, July 22, 2026, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., at Boisseranc Park.
2. PRESENT ATIONS
2A. CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION TO SRUTHILAYA SUNDARAV ADIVELAN FOR COMPLETION OF HER YOUTH M!CROGRANT PROJECT
Mayor Traut presented a Certificate of Recognition to Sruthilaya Sundaravadivelan for completion of her Youth Microgrant Project - Bharatanatyam and Carnatic combined musical art forms, and a Certificate of Recognition on behalf of State Senator Tony Strickland.
Ms. Sundaravadivelan thanked Mayor Traut and City staff for their assistance with coordinating her project.
2B. CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION TO BUENA PARK GRADUATES Council Members Ahn and Franco presented Certificates of Congratulations for recent Buena Park graduates: Elizabeth Vindiola, Cerritos Community College and Katherine Joy Uyso Bareng, Cal State Long Beach.
Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 238
2C. CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION TO BUENA PARK ROTARY CLUB FORMER
PRESIDENT SHAILESH SHAH
Mayor Traut presented a Certificate of Recognition to Buena Park Rotary outgoing President Shailesh Shah and a Certificate of Recognition on behalf of State Senator Tony Strickland. 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.
Dominic Bendinelli, Buena Park resident, thanked the City Council for the opening of the Dale Street Bike Lane Project by Boisseranc Park and asked City Council to continue the expansion of safe bike lanes in the City.
Ginger Cruz, Buena Park resident, requested the City Council consider banning all fireworks in Buena Park to support Veterans with PTSD and protect pets from the noise.
Andrew Gregson, President and CEO of NOCC, expressed appreciation to Mayor Traut, Council Member Ahn, and City Manager France for attending NOCC's 250th Anniversary of America's Independence Gala. Mr. Gregson thanked Mayor Traut for participating in the program, which recognized the historic inclusion of La Habra as the newest NOCC City member.
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.
Mayor Traut requested an amendment to the recommended action for Item No. 4G. There being no additional requests for separate consideration, the following action was taken on Item Nos. 4A - 4G:
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Traut
Sonne
Traut, Sonne, Ahn, Franco, Hoque
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 June 23, 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. 15139
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $3,912,975.87 DEMAND NOS. 436399 THROUGH 436653 CANCELLED NOS 436048 AND 436089 RESOLUTION NO. 15140
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1,280,195.76 DEMAND NOS. 456654 THROUGH 436821 CANCELLED NO 435421
Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 239
RESOLUTION NO. 15141
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1,236,991 .27 COVERING REGULAR PAYROLL ENDING JuNE 19, 2026
Contracts 70 C-3667 Public Works Proj. 125 PW-994 4C. FINAL PAYMENT TO GOLDEN COAST CONSTRUCTION FOR THE 2025-2026
ANNUAL WHEELCHAIR RAMP PROGRAM PROJECT
Recommended Action: 1 ) Accept project as complete and approve final payment to Golden Coast Construction in the amount of $26,942.74; and, 2) Direct the Public Works Department to file a Notice of Completion.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Contracts 70 C-3521 C-3522
4D. AMENDMENT N0. 1 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NO. C-3521
WITH KOREAN COMMUNITY SERVICES (KCS) FOR OPIOID MEDICATION
ASSISTED TREATMENT (MAT) SERVICES IN THE COMMUNITY Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve amendment No. 1 to the agreement between the City of Buena Park and Korean Community Services (KCS) to extend Opioid Medication Assisted Treatment services from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027; 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.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Codes 64 Political Reform Act 199
4E. RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE AMENDED CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE FOR
DESIGNATED CITY OFFICIALS AND PERSONNEL
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt a resolution approving the amended Conflict of Interest Code for designated City officials and personnel pursuant to the Political Reform Act of 1974.
APPROVED the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 15142
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
ADOPTING THE CITY'S CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE FOR DESIGNATED CITY
OFFICIALS AND PERSONNEL
City Council 55
4F. APPROVALOFAMENDMENTSTOTHECITYCOUNCIL'SLANGUAGEACCESS POLICY N0. 45
Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve amendments to the City Council's Language Access Policy No. 45.
APPROVED the recommended action.
Reports & Studies 129
4G. APPROVALOFCITYRESPONSESTO2025-20260RANGECOUNTYGRANDJURY REPORT: "CONNECTING ORANGE COUNTY TO LAX"
Recommended Action: 1 ) Approve the City's responses to the Orange County Grand Jury Report entitled, "Connecting Orange County to LAX." Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 240
Mayor Traut recommended the following amendment to the recommendation for Finding 1:
Response: The City of Buena Park partially agrees with this finding. The Buena Park Mall is located 29.4 miles from LAX. While the Buena Park Mall could be a viable location, the site is on private property where a large-scale housing development is currently under construction. The City believes there may be other locations closer to public transit, hotels, and other amenities, such as the Buena Park Metrolink Station, that could be a better fit for an express bus pick-up site.
APPROVED the recommended action as amended.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
5. NEW BUSINESS (5A - 5B)
Contracts 70 C-3688 Public Works Proj. 125 PW-1004 5A. RESOLUTION APPROVING PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT WITH TORO ENTERPRISES, INC. FOR THE 4"' STREET SEWER
UPSIZING PROJECT
Presented by Jason Tran, Associate Engineer
Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt a resolution approving the plans and specifications for the 4'h Street Sewer Upsizing Project; 2) Award a contract to Toro Enterprises, Inc. in the amount of $769,978; 3) Authorize contingency funds in the amount of $70,000; 4) Authorize construction engineering funds in the amount of $35,000; 5) Authorize a purchase order for the Solis Group in the amount of $4,980 for administration of the Community Workforce Agreement (CWA); 6) Authorize contingency funds in the amount of $2,490 for CWA administration; 7) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any necessary, non-monetary changes to the contract; and, 8) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the contract.
Associate Engineer Tran presented a staff report recommending replacement of the existing six- inch vitrified clay sewer main on 4th Street with a new eight-inch sewer main to increase capacity and address aging infrastructure. Staff also recommended adding slurry sealing to extend roadway life affer construction.
Following a competitive bid process with six proposals received staff recommended awarding the contract to Toro Enterprises, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder in the amount of $769,978. Staff determined that the two lowest bidders were not responsible bidders due to insufficient experience or performance history. The total project cost, including contingencies, engineering, and administrative services, is $882,448 and will be funded through the Wastewater Fund Capital Improvements Program. Construction is anticipated from September to October 2026.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Ahn
Sonne
Ahn, Sonne, Franco, Traut, Hoque
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled resolution:
RESOLUTION N0. 15143
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR 4TH STREET SEWER UPSIZING
PROJECT IN SAID CITY
Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 241
Adrnin. Svcs. 112
5B. RESOLUTIONAPPROVINGAPUBLICLYAVAILABLEPAYSCHEDULE
Presented by Rebecca Valdez, Human Resources Manager Recommended Action: 1 ) Adopt a resolution approving a publicly available pay schedule.
Human Resources Manager Valdez provided a staff report regarding the adoption of a consolidated pay schedule to comply with California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) requirements. Human Resources Manager Valdez explained that while employee contracts, MOUs, compensation plans, and pay information are already publicly available on the City's website, California regulations require all pay rates to be approved and adopted by the City Council in a single publicly available pay schedule. The proposed resolution adopts a comprehensive pay schedule for all City employees, including the City Manager, Executive Team, and City Council Members, in accordance with CalPERS regulations. The pay schedule will be updated and brought back to the City Council whenever salary adjustments are approved. Special compensation provisions remain governed by existing employee contracts, MOUs, and compensation plans previously approved by the City Council.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Traut
Franco
Traut, Franco, Ahn, Sonne, Hoque
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action and ADOPTED the following titled resolution:
RESOLUTION N0. 151 44
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING A PUBLICLY AVAILABLE PAY SCHEDULE AS REQUIRED BY CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 2, SECTION 570.5
6. PUBLIC HEARING
Contracts 70 C-3689 Variance 14.8
6A. ORDINANCEAPPROVINGDEVELOPMENTAGREEMENT(DA-25-1),RESOLUTION APPROVING VARIANCE (V-25-1 ), PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT, OWNER
PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT, AND RECIPROCAL EASEMENT AND
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT TO ALLOW THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN AQUARIUM, BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY AND ASSOCIATED IMPROVEMENTS AT 7711 -7733
BEACH BOULEV ARD
Presented by Matt Foulkes, Director of Community and Economic Development Recommended Action: It is recommended that the City Council conduct a public hearing and affer considering evidence presented take the following actions: 1 ) Adopt an Ordinance approving Development Agreement (DA-25-1 ), and find that the project is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 151 83; 2) Adopt a Resolution approving Variance (V-25-1 ); 3) Approve an Agreement for the Purchase, Sale, and Development of Real Property (PSA), Owner Participation Agreement (OPA) and Reciprocal Easement and Maintenance Agreement for the sale, development, continued operation of an entertainment development comprised of an aquarium, a butterfly conservatory, ancillary retail uses, and associated on- and off-site improvements for the City-owned property located at 7711- 7733 Beach Boulevard; and 4) Authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to make any reasonable, nonmonetary changes to the agreements necessary to effectuate the transaction; and, 5) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the transaction agreements on behalf of the City.
Director of Community and Economic Development Director Foulkes presented a staff report regarding the proposed Buena Park Boardwalk Entertainment development located at 7711- 7733 Beach Boulevard. The project would redevelop the vacant City-owned property within the Entertainment Comdor Specific Plan with a major attraction consisting of a 75,000 sq. ft. aquarium, a 45,000 sq. ft. butterfly conservatory and atrium, supporting restaurant and retail uses, a public boardwalk and outdoor event area, landscaping, parking facilities, and distinctive architectural features intended to complement the Entertainment Corridor, including elements such as a large shark feature and butterfly details. The project site has remained vacant following the termination or previous development efforts. This project is intended to revitalize Minutes Ju!y 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 242
the property, enhance the City's Entertainment Corridor, attract visitors, create employment opportunities, and provide additional tourism attractions.
The Planning Commission reviewed the project and unanimously recommended approval. The City Council is being asked to approve the Development Agreement, Variance, Purchase and Sale Agreement, Owner Participation Agreement, and Reciprocal Easement and Maintenance Agreement. These agreements establish the framework for the property sale, project development requirements, long-term operation commitments, and community benefits.
Under the proposed agreements, the City would sell the property to Buena Park Boardwalk, LLC. for $3 million, the appraised fair market value of the site. The City would provide up to $15 million in financial assistance through the Economic Development Fund to support project costs and ensure delivery of the project. Community benefits include local hiring opportunities, preference for local vendors, educational programming with schools and community organizations, resident discounts, public safety coordination, accessibility initiatives for guests with autism and sensory sensitivities, and commitments related to sustainability and responsible operations.
The project has been determined to be exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15183 because it is consistent with the City's General Plan, the Entertainment Corridor Specific Plan, and the development assumptions evaluated in the previously certified General Plan Environmental Impact Report. The environmental review concluded that the project would not result in new significant impacts requiring additional analysis.
Public Notices were mailed to properties located with the 300-foot radius surrounding the project site and a Notice of Public Hearing was posted at the required locations and published in the Buena Park Independent.
Mayor Traut stated that this was the time and place for a public hearing to consider approval of Development Agreement (DA-25-1 ), Resolution Approving Variance (V-25-1 ), the Purchase and Sale Agreement, the Owner Participation Agreement, and the Reciprocal Easement and Maintenance Agreement to allow the development of an aquarium, butterfly conservatory, and associated improvements at 7711-7733 Beach Boulevard.
Mayor Traut opened the public hearing and inquired if anyone present desired to speak.
Linda Luistro, Buena Park resident, expressed concerns regarding the City's financing for the proposed development, citing previous development funding and litigation issues. She questioned the developer's ability to secure financing and complete the project without relying on taxpayer funds.
There being no additional requests to speak, Mayor Traut closed the public hearing.
Director Foulkes provided information on the project's financing, property valuation, community benefits, and economic development funding. He confirmed that the developer must demonstrate financing before property transactions are finalized, noting that the City has implemented safeguards to prevent projects from failing due to funding issues. The project's construction budget is expected to exceed $85 million, and the City will require documentation from lenders verifying financial capacity and continued project viability. He explained that the property was acquired for $9 million based on an independent appraisal. The difference from the previously referenced $3 million valuation is due to significant site preparation costs, including the removal and excavation of approximately 12-17 ft. of concrete and other major ground improvements that impact the property's fair market value.
Director Foulkes also reviewed the community benefits documented in the Owner Participation Agreement which include local hiring opportunities, advance job notifications, use of the property for City events, support For Buena Park schools and nonprofits, student field trips, resident discount events, and fundraiser ticket opportunities. The agreement provides assurances that the property will continue to be used in a manner that aligns with the City's goals and community priorities.
Director Foulkes provided information on the Economic Development Fund, which was established to support economic development initiatives, particularly in the Entertainment Corridor. Funds have continued to be reserved and have generated additional revenue while remaining dedicated to economic development purposes.
Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 243
Council Member Sonne expressed support for the project, acknowledging the community's long wait for redevelopment and emphasizing the importance of selecting a qualified, financially capable developer. She stated that the project will provide significant economic and community benefits by attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, and increasing hotel stays. She also asked about the inclusion of electric vehicle charging stations and solar-covered parking and noted the importance of the project's long-term return on investment.
Council Member Ahn expressed support for the project, noting that the City evaluated the economic development investment, project timeline, and anticipated return on investment.
She stated that, despite the significant site preparation and added costs required to renovate the property, the long-term economic and community benefits will far outweigh the City's investment and are expected to be realized sooner than originally anticipated.
Council Member Franco expressed support for the project and inquired about measures that will be implemented to mitigate pump/generator noise impacts to nearby residents.
Director Foulkes explained that the back-of-house loading dock will serve the aquarium and pavilion for deliveries and operations. He acknowledged concerns related to truck noise, idling, exhaust, odors, and dust, noting that these issues were a primary focus during the project's design. He added that mechanical equipment will be roof-mounted to minimize noise impacts and expressed confidence that both staff and the developer have incorporated appropriate measures to address these concerns during construction and ongoing operations.
Vice Mayor Hoque expressed support for the project, noting it will benefit the Entertainment Corridor, attract more visitors, and provide new opportunities for the community. She stated she was excited about the educational partnerships with local schools, including field trips and learning programs that will give Buena Park students a unique resource close to home.
Mayor Traut expressed confidence in Buena Park Boardwalk, LLC. and welcomed the developer to Buena Park. He stated that the project is the right fit for the community and believes it will become a landmark attraction alongside Knott's Berry Farm and the City's other entertainment destinations.
Answering a question from Council Member Sonne, Director Foulkes stated that based on the current timeline, the anticipated date of opening is May 2029.
Adi Knishinsky, Buena Park Boardwalk, LLC. expressed excitement about bringing the project to Buena Park. He thanked City staff for their partnership and noted that the project will include approximately 100 electric vehicle charging spaces while the team continues to evaluate solar- covered parking. He also stated that noise, odors, and other operational impacts have been addressed through the project's design to minimize effects on nearby residents and guests.
Architect Ben Rusnick said he has enjoyed working in Buena Park over the past year and is excited about the project's benefits to the community.
Jack Flanning, Senior Project Manager, shared his appreciation for the City's partnership and commitment throughout the past 18 months, thanking City staff and the City Council for their collaboration and dedication to driving the project forward.
The City Council expressed support for the project and appreciation to Community Development Director Foulkes and City Attorney Cardinale for ushering this project forward.
MOTION:
SECOND:
AYES:
NOES:
Sonne
Traut
Sonne, Traut, Ahn, Franco, Hoque
None
MOTION CARRIED to approve the recommended action and ADOPT the following titled ordinance and resolution:
ORDINANCE NO. 1769
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT NO. DA25-1 TO DEVELOP AN AQUARIUM, BUTTERFLY EXHIBIT AND ASSOCIATED ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS AT 7711-7733 BEACH BOULEVARD (APNS: 136-203-40, 136-211-64 AND 136-211-57) WITHIN THE
ENTERTAINMENT CORRIDOR SPECIFIC PLAN (ECSP) ZONE AND AUTHORIZING THE
MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE THE SAME ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK
Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 244
RESOLUTION N0. 15145
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BUENA PARK, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING A VARIANCE TO REDUCE THE MINIMUM LANDSCAPE SETBACK IN THE
ENTERTAINMENT CORRIDOR SPECIFIC PLAN (ECSP) FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN
AQUARIUM, BUTTERFLY EXHIBIT AND ASSOCIATED ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT 7711-7733 BEACH BOULEVARD (APNS: 136-203-40, 136-211-64 AND 136-211-57), AND MAKING FINDINGS IN SUPPORT THEREOF This item was taken out of order.
7. COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS, CONFERENCE REPORTS AND
CALENDAR REQUESTS
7A. REPORT
Vice Mayor Hoque reported the following:
* June 27 Neighborhood Action Day
* July 1 250'h America's Anniversary Celebration, Independence Hall @ July 6 District 4 Buena Park Graduates Home Visits * July 9 Beat Park Design Meeting
Vice Mayor Hoque encouraged residents to visit Lobster Boss, 5899 Lincoln Avenue, Unit B, Buena Park, a new restaurant in Buena Park; and announced on June 26, she successfully defended her dissertation and earned her Ph.D. with an emphasis in Leadership Studies from Chapman University.
Council Member Ahn reported the following:
* June 24 QC Sanitation District Trustee Board Meeting * June 25 Korean War Memoria!
* June 25 All Employee Luncheon
* July 1 250fh America's Anniversary Celebration, Independence Hall July 7 NOCC 250'h Anniversary of America Gala
* July 13 District I Buena Park Graduates Home Visits Council Member Franco reported the following:
* June 26 2-year Hilton Buena Park Anniversary Celebration * July 1 250'h America's Anniversary Celebration, Independence Hall * July 24 District 2 Buena Park Graduates Home Visits Council Member Franco reported on the collaboration between the Acacia Quilt Guild and Buena Park High School's FFA program. He also expressed appreciation to the Public Works Department for its efforts in removing graffiti and debris from a sidewalk area in District 2.
Council Member Franco encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to help keep the City clean.
Council Member Franco calendared reducing overnight parking on Commonwealth Avenue.
Council Member Sonne reported the following:
* July 1 250'h America's Anniversary Celebration, Independence Hall * July 4 4th of July Ride-along with BPPD
* July 13 0CPA Board of Director's Regular Meeting Council Member Sonne reported that the OCPA Board approved OCPA's 2026-2027 Program Portfolio, expanding energy efficiency programs for small businesses, renters, and homeowners. The initiatives include small business support, rental property upgrades, home energy audits, renter efficiency programs, and training for local energy assessors. The board also approved the 2026 Integrated Resource Plan, reaffirming OCPA's commitment to grid reliability, sustainability, and CPUC compliance. Members reviewed potential Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) changes, including a proposal to increase board size, but agreed to keep the board structure unchanged while continuing to evaluate future policy updates.
Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 245
Mayor Traut reported the following:
* June 25 0CFA Board Meeting: approved 5-year labor contract * June 26 Dissertation Defense by Vice Mayor Lamiya Hoque, Ph.D. * June 27 Neighborhood Action Day
* July 1 250'h America's Anniversary Celebration, Independence Hall * July 41ndependence Day celebrations across various cities in the region * July 6 District 5 Buena Park Graduates Home Visits * July 7 Brenner Park Design Meeting
* July 7 NOCC 250'h Anniversary of America Gala
* July 8 Buena Park Summer Concert: Red Hot Tribute * July 14 Youth Microgrant Review Committee Meeting Mayor Traut requested follow-up on several items, including the trimming of trees along Western Avenue between Artesia Boulevard and Brea Creek, exploring the possibility of installing a city sidewalk on properties located on Burnham Avenue north of Artesia Boulevard, and identifying the owners of the vacant corner property located at 7382 Franklin Avenue to explore potential incentives for future development of the site.
At the request of Mayor Traut, Interim Chief Geyer reported on the Police Department's 4th of July enforcement effort. He noted fewer fireworks were reported before dark but increased and included several serious injuries. The department adjusted by bringing officers in earlier, deploying the drone program, and using recorded video to identify violations. Officers identified 35 residences in violation of the social host ordinance and issued 21 citations to individuals for possession of illegal fireworks. Interim Chief Geyer stated that while the department will continue working to reduce illegal fireworks, the drone program was a valuable tool, and he expects improved results next year. Ongoing enforcement challenges include young people operating off-road vehicles, pursuit concerns, and public unhappiness despite enforcement efforts. The department will continue working to address violations and confiscate illegal fireworks and vehicles when possible.
8. RECESS/RECONVENE
The City Council did not recess.
9. STUDY SESSION (9A)
9A. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME
DATA AND REPORTING
Presented by Brad Geyer, Interim Police Chief
Interim Police Chief Geyer presented a year-to-date overview of crime trends, crime rates, response times, and crime mapping, highlighting how crime data is used to measure department performance, allocate resources, meet state and federal reporting requirements, and identify crime patterns by geographic area (districts). Reported Part I crimes continue to trend downward compared with previous years. Through the first six months of 2026, total Part I crimes decreased to 861 incidents, down from 918 during the same period in 2025. Reductions were seen in aggravated assaults, burglaries, arson, and stolen vehicle thefts, while larceny/theft remained the most common crime category and rape and robbery experienced increases compared with the prior year.
Interim Police Chief Geyer reviewed crime data by council district and showed that District 3 recorded the highest number of reported crimes, followed closely by Districts 4 and 2. Property crimes accounted for many reported offenses across all districts, while violent crimes remained relatively low. Officer-initiated activity was also concentrated in Districts 2 and 3.
Police response times generally improved in 2026 compared with 2025. Priority 1 emergency calls were answered more quickly, with response times decreasing from 4 minutes 4 seconds to 3 minutes 52 seconds, while Priority 3 calls also improved. Priority 2 response times remained essentially unchanged.
Council Member Ahn requested regular crime reports available for the public during future Council Meetings.
Minutes July 14, 2026 Vol. 55 Pg. 246
Council Member Sonne requested additional information regarding the increase in reported rape incidents, as well as the use of illegal fireworks by residents in their backyards during the 4'h of July to avoid receiving citations.
Interim Chief Geyer advised that he did not have information at this time regarding the reasons for the increase in reported rape incidents. However, he stated that staff would conduct additional research and provide the information to the City Council.
Regarding the use of illegal fireworks on the 4th of July, Interim Chief Geyer stated that he was driving through the City that evening and observed fireworks being discharged. However, it was difficult to determine where the fireworks were being discharged.
Interim Chief Geyer stated he would return in October with another comprehensive report.
This item was pulled from the agenda.
9B. DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION REGARDING A THREE-DAY KOREAN FOOD FESTIVAL IN SPRING OF 2027 IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HUGH ENTERTAINMENT Presented by Jim Box, Director of Community Services
10. CITYMANAGERREPORT
City Manager France reported on the following:
July 28 City Council meeting canceled for a legislative recess.
National Night Out and the City Manager's Office Annual Employee BBQ is scheduled for August 5, 2026, Boisseranc Park.
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 7:24 p.m.
ATTEST:
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