1 STAFF REPORT
DATE: February 13, 2024
TO: Justin Hess, City Manager
FROM: Courtney Padgett, Assistant City Manager
By: Cathryn LaBrado, Assistant to the City Manager
SUBJECT: Discussion on City Council Resolution Topics
RECOMMENDATION
The City Council could:
1) Note and file the report; or
2) Provide direction to staff to return with a second step report on City Council Resolution Topics, which could include a proposed Council Policy.
BACKGROUND
At the December 12, 2023, City Council meeting, Council Member Mullins requested a first step report regarding limiting resolutions considered by City Council to matters and issues related to City business.
DISCUSSION
City Council Members serve as the elected legislative and policy-making body of the City of Burbank, enacting laws and directing any actions necessary to provide for the general welfare of the community through appropriate programs, services, and activities.
According to the Charter of the City of Burbank (Section 500: ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS OR MOTIONS), the Council may take official action only by the passage or adoption of ordinances, resolutions , or motions, as may be prescribed by the Constitution or Laws of the State of California and the provisions of the Charter.
Historically, Council has considered resolutions related to grant applications, agreements, and acceptance of funds or general City agreements. Other common topics for resolutions have included items related to employee salary, building development CITY MANAGER’S
OFFICE
2 standards, and California Environmental Quality Act (C EQA) exemptions. On occasion, Council has considered resolutions related to international conflicts or global policy, which one could argue is outside of City Council’s purview. In 2023, Council considered over 100 resolutions. Council discussion on this item may include whether or not resolutions for consideration must include a nexus to the City of Burbank, with nexus being defined as the direct and substantial connection between a proposed resolution and the interests, well-being, or objectives of the City and its residents. Council may also consider and take into account the use of City resources, including staff time, required to research, prepare and present proposed resolutions before Council.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This activity has no potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, and as such, is not a “project” subject to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) 14 Cal. Code Regs § 15378.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
CONCLUSION
This report is provided to guide Council discussion regarding limiting resolutions for Council consideration to topics with a nexus to Burbank and/or City business. Council could note and file the report, or direct staff on additional steps.
ATTACHMENTS
None.