Those persons wishing to speak on any item included on the agenda, or on any matter within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council, are invited fill out and submit to the City Clerk a “Request to Speak” form (name and address optional) which is available at the entrance to the City Council Chambers. Additionally, members of the public may submit electronic inquiries or comments by submitting emails to [email protected]
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting per your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act or for any other reason, please contact the City Clerk’s Office (909) 334-3306, at least 48 hours prior to the advertised starting time of the meeting.
Any documents produced by the City and distributed to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available in the City Clerk ’s Office during normal business hours at City Hall located at 13220 Central Avenue, Chino. In addition, such documents will be posted on the City’s website at www.cityofchino.org
CHINO CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
13220 CENTRAL AVENUE
CHINO, CA 91710
TUESDAY OCTOBER 10, 2023
WORKSHOP
AGENDA
6:00 PM
_________________________________________________________________________________
NOTICE AND CALL FOR A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CHINO CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR
AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY THAT WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2023, AT 6 :00 PM IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS LOCATED AT 13220 CENTRAL AVENUE, CHINO, CA.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Eunice M. Ulloa, Mayor Pro Tem Karen C. Comstock, Council Member Curtis Burton, Council Member Christopher Flores, Council Member Marc Lucio.
FLAG SALUTE
PUBLIC COMMENTS
This is the time and place for the public to address the City Council regarding items listed on the special meeting agenda. Ordinance No. 97 -08 (Chino Municipal Code Section 2.04.090) limits speakers to no more than five (5) minutes in which to address the Council.
DISCUSSION
1. Discussion regarding the Community Services, Parks & Recreation and Planning Commissions. City of Chino Commissions.
Staff Report By: Linda Reich, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: Receive feedback from the Community Services, Parks & Recreation (CSPR) and Planning Commissions regarding commission appointments, terms, and sphere of influence participation. Discuss and provide direction to staff. 1 CHINO CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 10, 2023 2
ADJOURN
The next Regular Meeting of the City Council will be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. (Closed Session no earlier than 4:00 p.m. if necessary) in these Council Chambers.
I, Natalie Gonzaga, City Clerk of the City of Chino, hereby declare that on Thursday, October 5, 2023 this agenda was posted on the south window of Chino City Hall and this agenda together with all of the agenda reports and related documents were posted on the City’s website at www.cityofchino.org by myself or under my direction.
_______________________________________
Natalie Gonzaga, City Clerk.
2 MEMORANDUM
CITY OF CHINO
ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: OCTOBER 10, 2023
TO: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS, CITY OF CHINO
FROM: LINDA REICH, CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT
..titl e
City of Chino Commissions.
..end
RECOMMENDATION
..recommendation
Receive feedback from the Community Services, Parks & Recreation (CSPR) and Planning Commissions regarding commission appointments, terms, and sphere of influence participation.
Discuss and provide direction to staff.
..body
FISCAL IMPACT
No fiscal impact.
CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES The recommendation detailed above further the City’s values and strategic issues that serve as key pillars on which identified priorities, goals, and action plans are built, by fostering:
Positive City Image
Superior Customer Service
Responsible Long-Range Planning
Exemplary Leadership
Public Service Excellence through Internal and External Partnerships
3 CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: OCTOBER 10, 2023
TITLE: CITY OF CHINO COMMISSIONS.
PAGE: 2
BACKGROUND
At the July 5, 2023 City Council Meeting, the City Council directed the CSPR and Planning Commissions to discuss and provide input on the commission appointment process and terms.
The Planning Commission met at their regular meeting on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 and the CSPR Commission met at a Workshop on Monday, August 28, 2023 to discuss and provide feedback to the City Council.
ISSUES/ANALYSIS
Both Commissions discussed each of the questions listed below. All Commissioners provided a vote “in favor” or “against” each question, with the exception of Planning Commissioner Chavez, who was absent (excused) from the Planning Commission meeting. In addition, the CSPR Commission Minutes and Planning Commission draft minutes are attached and provide more detail on the meeting recommendations.
Question CSPR Commission Planning Commission
Should there be at least
one Commissioner
appointed from each City
Council district?
No
(5-2 against district)
No
(5-1 against district)
Should term limits be
established for
Commissioners?
No
(5-2 against term limits)
No
(4-2 against term limits)
Should there be a
Commissioner appointed
from the City’s Sphere of
Influence in an advisory
capacity?
Yes
(4-3 in favor of advisory
capacity)
Yes
(4-2 in favor of advisory
capacity)
Should there be a
Commissioner appointed
from the City’s Sphere of
Influence in a voting
capacity?
No
(6-1 against voting capacity)
No
(6-0 against voting capacity)
Staff recommends the City Council discuss the feedback received from the Commissions as well as converting the CSPR Commission Member At-Large appointment to a be appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council.
Attachments: Planning Commission Meeting Minutes (DRAFT) – August 16, 2023 CSPR Commission Meeting Minutes – August 28, 2023
4 CHINO PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING – CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2023 at 6:00 PM
13220 CENTRAL AVENUE
CHINO, CA 91710
MINUTES
FLAG SALUTE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Blanchard.
ROLL CALL
Present: Kevin Cisneroz (Chairperson), Jimmy Alexandris (Vice Chairperson), Brandon Blanchard, Lissa Fraga, Steve Lewis, Lawrence Vieira.
Absent: Joanna Chavez (Excused).
ANNOUNCEMENTS
None.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Minutes – Regular meeting of July 19, 2023 (All Members Present).
Motion by Commissioner Blanchard to approve the Minutes from the July 19, 2023 Regular Meeting. Second by Vice Chair Alexandris and carried with a 6-0 vote.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
DISCUSSION
2. Planning Commission Appointment and Term Discussion. Discuss Planning Comm ission appointment and term procedures and forward recommendations to the City Council.
Warren Morelion, Interim Director of Development Services, presented the Staff Report and asked for the Commission’s input.
The Planning Commission providing the following recommendations regarding questions so the City Council can utilize the information to determine if changes to the existing appointment and term procedures for Planning Commissioners are appropriate:
5 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Wednesday, August 16, 2023 Page 2
1) Should there be at least one Planning Commissioner appointed from each City Council district?
5-1 against district appointments.
2) Should term limits be established for Planning Commissions? 4- 2 against term limits.
3) Should there be a Planning Commissioner appointed from the City’s Sphere of Influence – either in an advisory capacity or in a voting capacity? 6-0 against voting capacity for SOI residents.
4-2 in favor for SOI residents to be on advisory committee. 4) Should there be any other changes in how Planning Commissioners are qualified and/or appointed?
Most Commissioners are okay with the current process. Main thought from a couple of Commissioners is that Planning Commission Chairperson should be present during Planning Commission interviews and provide input to the Council for selection of new Commissioners.
Motion by Commissioner Fraga to provide the City Council with the recommendations listed and read into the record by Brian Wright-Bushman, Deputy City Attorney. Second by Commissioner Vieira and carried with a 6-0 vote.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
None.
COMMISSION COMMENTS
Commissioner Fraga requested an excused absence from the September Planning Commission Meeting as she will be out of town.
Vice Chair Alexandris reported that he read a report stating that within the next 30 years the Inland Empire will be absorbing another 1.7 Million people from Los Angeles alone so there will still be a lot of growth in the area.
Chairman Cisneroz stated that there is a lot of new homes construction and more will be needed.
ADJOURNMENT
Adjourn to a regular meeting of the Planning Commission on September 20, 2023 at 6 p.m. in these Council Chambers.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 18TH DAY OF OCTOBER 2023.
___________________________________
CHAIRMAN, PLANNING COMMISSION
6 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Wednesday, August 16, 2023 Page 3
___________________________________
SECRETARY, PLANNING COMMISSION
*****************************************************
(These minutes are not official until signed.)
7 COMMUNITY SERVICES, PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION WORKSHOP
CITY OF CHINO COUNCIL CHAMBERS
13220 CENTRAL AVENUE
CHINO, CA 91710
MONDAY, AUGUST 28, 2023
6:00 P.M.
MINUTES
I. CALL TO ORDER
Chairperson Martinez called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
II. PLEDGE TO THE FLAG
Commissioner Aviles led the flag salute.
Ill. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Chairperson Robert Martinez, Vice Chairperson Linda Takeuchi, and Commissioners Patricia Pereda Arlt, Jamie Aviles, Neal Jerry, Gregory Marquez, and
Julissa Montenegro-Olivas
Commissioners Late: None
Commissioners Absent: None
Council Present: Mayor Pro Tern Karen Comstock and Council Member Curtis Burton
Staff Present: Silvia Avalos, Ted Bistarkey, Mayra Pratt, Sal Parra, Vanessa Cuellar, and Marsha Ariyasu
IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Chairperson Martinez opened the Public Comments. As there were no requests to speak, Chairperson Martinez closed the Public Comments.
V. DISCUSSION
1. Commission "Draft" Operations Manual:
Silvia Avalos, Director of Community Services, Parks & Recreation (CSPR), opened the discussion. Ms. Avalos reported on August 10, 2023, staff met with the Sub Committee consisting of Vice Chairperson Takeuchi and Commissioners Arlt and Montenegro-Olivas to review the Commission's Operations Manual for updates and necessary changes. The first change that was made throughout the manual was the correction of the Department's new name from Community Services to Community Services, Parks & Recreation. On page 9, we updated the history of the Department to reflect the new Department name and why we moved forward with making that change. Under the Membership section, we made the correction to six members are to be appointed by the Mayor of the City of Chino 8
and one member remains the same as the Member-at-Large. On the Terms of Office, we made the correction to four years. All seven Commissioners shall be appointed for four years instead of three. Corrections were made on the staggered terms based on the current roster. On page 12, under Compensation of Members, this was a correction to the current compensation amount of $125 per meeting as noted in the ordinance update.
Ms. Avalos noted under Procedures, the recommendation is to change the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson's period to every two years in November, and the actual term will be from January 1, through December 31. This will also mimic the Planning Commission's Chairperson and Vice Chairperson terms.
The meeting time was changed from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. On page 14, the Administrative Secretary's title was changed to Management Assistant. Some formatting changes were made as well so the document could flow better. On page 10, the Brown Act section was moved to before the definitions.
Ms. Avalos noted on page 7, the Purpose of the Commission is to be an advisory board to the City Council and to be the eyes and ears of the CSPR Department, available to attend City events, visit the parks, and have open communication with the public. Commission meetings are public and provide for the public to address the Commission and be heard. Page 9, Conflict of Interest, if a Commissioner has a conflict, they should not directly or indirectly influence the proceeding of the vote. Commissioners should be open to staff and the Chairperson when there is something they have a conflict with is on the agenda.
Ms. Avalos reported the Brown Act is something that is followed by the Commission. Commission meetings are open to the public, unless otherwise provided by law. Agendas are posted on the City's website by a certain time.
CSPR staff works closely with the City Clerk's office.
Ms. Avalos reported the Duties of a Commissioner, page 18, spells out their responsibilities. She encouraged the Commissioners to review this section in more detail. There is an ethics training that all Commissioners need to complete.
On page 20, the Commissioners' Creed is direct to the individual Commission members: I will listen, I will recognize the integrity of my associates and the Mayor, and I will work with administrative employees not over or around them.
Ms. Avalos noted information regarding fellow Commissioners and the relationship with staff and City Council. The Commission should be supportive of Council and City staff. Commissioners should support City legislative efforts favorable to parks, recreation, and community services. The Commission should not be used for personal political gains, personal favors, or influence.
Commissioners must be sensitive to Citywide priorities and know when to take a stand.
Ms. Avalos noted on page 25, Social Media, personal social media sites should be managed consistent with the Brown Act. Social Media exchanges among four or more Commissioners regarding official City business is subject to the Brown Act public notice and access requirements. The City strongly discourages Commissioners from friending other Commissioners. Commissioners should not engage in any exchange of discussion of official City business on personal social media sites. Engaging in exchange of ideas or discussion on such matters by a Commissioner's response to another Commissioner may be interpreted as a serial meeting and a violation of the Brown Act. Be aware of the dos and don'ts of 9
social media as Commissioners. Ms. Avalos asked the Commissioners to please follow us. Not only does the City have their own social media, but CSPR has its own. Use of Social Media Administrative Policy and Media Relations Policy were attached for review.
Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated there are a lot of sites on Facebook and other sites. Commissioners need to be careful of what they say and post on those sites as well, not just City sites. Be careful of any likes or comments.
The Commissioners agreed to the changes. A final copy will be distributed.
2. Code of Conduct:
Ms. Avalos reported the Commissioners received the Code of Conduct for Council Members, Commissioners, Committee Members, and Board Members.
She asked the Commissioners to review the Code, sign the acknowledgement, and staff will forward them to the City Clerk.
3. Chino Valley Unified School District Program/Service Partnership:
Ms. Avalos reported the CSPR Managers will review several programs and services that the City offers in collaboration with the Chino Valley Unified School District [CVUSD). A handout was provided that detailed different programs.
Mayra Pratt, CSPR Manager, reported on school-based programs. Ms. Pratt reported the PALS [Positive Action for Life Success) program is a City-funded program geared to service students in Kindergarten through 3rd grade at ten elementary schools within the CVUSD. It is a prevention/intervention program to provide students with the tools they need to be successful in their early education.
Ms. Pratt reported the following programs are offered in collaboration with the City of Chino, City of Chino Hills, and CVUSD: The Teen, Youth, CARE, and HOPE Counseling programs. The City has an agreement with the CVUSD to offer counseling services to all 37 schools in the CVUSD from Kindergarten through alternative education. The HOPE program's main hub is at the adult school.
Case Managers, who are City staff, partner with the CVUSD to offer case management services and resources to families in need throughout the CVUSD from Medi-Cal, food necessities, and housing. Case management has offices at the school sites. The schools are selected based on the need in that area.
Ms. Pratt reported the Tobacco Use Prevention Education [TUPE) program is a use prevention education program. TUPE is offered to 6th grade through Jr. High School. High school programs are also offered to educate young teens about the prevention of using tobacco or vaping, which is the most current trend.
The program educates students about the side effects and long-term side effects. Ms. Pratt reported the Smart Talk program, which is the newest program, is a Cannabis prevention awareness program. The program is geared towards high school students. All the programs are funded through a tobacco tax through the state.
Ted Bistarkey, CSPR Manager, reported on Before and After School programs.
The Sunrise program, which is a recreation-based before school program, is offered only to students attending Cal Aero Preserve Academy from 6:00 a.m. until school begins. The Hive Five After School program provides recreation 10
activities, education enhancement, homework assistance, and is offered to students in Kindergarten through 6th grade at three sites: Howard Cattle and Newman Elementary Schools, and the Preserve Community Center. The SOAR (Students on a Rise) program offers similar activities as High Five to students in ]st grade through 6th grade at Cortez, Anna Borba, Doris Dixon, E.J. Marshall, Walnut, and Levi Dickey Elementary Schools. The Ramona After School program (RAAP) is for 7th and 8th grade students and is offered from school dismissal until 6:00 p.m.
Mr. Bistarkey reported there are two joint-use agreements. One is the Preserve Community Center, in collaboration with the CVUSD and San Bernardino County Library. After School programs are offered. The facility is open 30 minutes after school ends until 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 1 :00 p.m., for open-gym and contract classes. There are a variety of activities taking place in the evening and on Saturday. It is also our second home to the Youth Basketball program during winter and summer seasons. The other joint-use agreement is the Chino High School track, which is traditionally available to the public until 9:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and weekends, from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Modifications are being made at the school about access and hours available for use. The track is also utilized for the City's annual Youth Track and Field Meet. The joint-use agreement allows us to utilize the track at no cost outside of the custodial services.
Commissioner Aviles stated she utilizes the After School program for her children, and thinks staff is doing a great job, especially High Five at the Preserve.
The Preserve has additional needs and a lot of those needs are difficult to overcome. Cal Aero Preserve is the only school in the Chino Valley that is year round and this provides parents with difficulties when their kids are off in March or April, which are non-traditional times when students are off. There are no summer programs for parents to put their children in. She loves what the City is doing and keeps using the program. She has a son in junior high school. She still puts him in High Five because it is safe, and she knows he is taken care of.
VI. ACTION ITEMS
1. Commission Appointment and Term:
Silvia Avalos, Director of CSPR, gave the report. Ms. Avalos reported each Commissioner is asked to provide input on all four of the questions listed in the staff report. Ms. Avalos reported a memo was sent to the Commissioners prior to the meeting. On July 5, the City Council had the initial discussion to determine if there was a desire to change and/or modify the Planning and CSPR Commissions' appointment and term procedures. The City Council asked staff to go back to both Commissions to receive their input before formally discussing the issue at a later City Council workshop. The City Council would like the CSPR Commission's recommendations regarding the following questions to determine if changes to the existing appointment and term procedures for CSPR Commissioners are appropriate.
Question #1 - Should there be at least one Community Services, Parks & Recreation Commissioner appointed from each City Council district? 11
Commission Marquez asked for clarification if the City Council workshop is to provide a measure to approve term limits or any of the items discussed. Will this be voted on by the community or does the City Council decide? Ms. Avalos stated the City Council asked staff to gather the Commissioners' input.
The City Council will have a workshop to discuss the Commissioners' the input.
The CSPR Commission Chairperson and Vice Chairperson will attend the workshop. Ms. Avalos asked Mayor Pro Tern Comstock how the workshop will proceed.
Mayor Pro Tern Comstock stated any decision the CSPR Commission makes is in an advisory capacity to the City Council, and the City Council will proceed from there.
Commissioner Marquez stated he would like clarification. His understanding is that this would have to go to a vote at the next general election regarding term limits or a policy change. It does not end at the City Council's decision.
Mayor Pro Tern Comstock stated she is not aware of it as it pertains to Commission business. She thought he was talking about elected officials by the Registrar of Voters.
Commissioner Marquez asked if that was the answer.
Mayor Pro Tern Comstock stated she believes her response was correct, but we can also seek legal opinion.
Chairperson Martinez stated this is a workshop to provide input to the City Council. It is our personal opinions.
Commissioner Marquez stated if there are only two Council Members in attendance, the entire City Council is not going to hear all the comments.
Chairperson Martinez stated staff will document the comments, which will be forwarded to the City Council.
Commissioner Marquez stated he listened to the Planning Commission meeting.
Kevin Cisneroz, Planning Commissioner, had the same concern about the City Council not getting all the information. It is evident that not all of the comments are going to be documented unless they request a recording of the discussions.
They will receive a summary of the comments that are being made tonight.
Ms. Avalos stated the minutes and recording will be provided to Administration staff.
Mayor Pro Tern Comstock stated she believes part of the reason there is not an abundance of City Council Members attending every Commission meeting is their desire for City Council Members not to have an overly oppressive position so it looks like Council Members are trying to influence or encourage Commissioners' opinion in any way. Council Members have committee assignments. On occasion you might see more than one Council Member attend Planning or CSPR Commissions based on the subject at hand. Simply, the Mayor directed, along with the rest of the City Council, staff to obtain input from not only the Commissions, but the public and City staff in order to help Council Members when they actually have their workshop.
12
Commissioner Arlt stated she does not have the context or history to be part of the discussion, but she likes the idea that representation from every part of the City is reflected on the Commission.
Commissioner Aviles stated this Commission is made up of seven people. We do not have seven district areas. Every ·area should be represented. Speaking on behalf of the Preserve, when driving from the most southern tip of the City in the Preserve to the downtown area, it takes 22 minutes. There are times when the Preserve residents' needs are very different. Currently, Preserve residents are still dealing with the Bickmore Avenue closure, which adds to traffic and her commute time. She was asked by the Mayor why she does not attend more events at City Hall. Frankly, it is because it is difficult for her to get to this area. It is the same for a lot of her neighbors. There are a lot of differences, and she thinks to have everyone represented on this Commission would be very valuable.
Yes, at least one person should be appointed from each district.
Commissioner Jerry stated he knows that he lives close to Chairperson Martinez and they might be in the same district. That would mean they would not be on the Commission together. He thinks they both provide valuable input to the Commission. He likes the fact that they have someone from the Preserve.
It gives a better perspective. When the Council districts were formed, the Commissioners were not held to that standard. It is important for everyone to be represented. He does not represent a district: he represents the entire City of Chino. He is not in favor of splitting into districts, because of the success he has seen in the current state.
Commissioner Arlt stated she wanted it to be clear she does not support specific City Council district representation. She thinks that it is important to have diversity and the Commission represents different areas of the City. Her answer is no.
Commissioner Marquez stated he is in favor of representation from all the districts.
The Commission should take into consideration the representation of the annexed areas as well. Are they going to be taken over by District 1? How is that going to work? There needs to be some clarification on how those neighborhoods are represented. There should be representation from all of the districts. He made a public comment at a Council meeting in May to speak about district representation and having Council Members involved in that process to select members. There is no shortage of applicants. If you look at the application process, there are 20 plus applicants. It should be a priority to make the representation fair and diverse between the districts and represent all areas of the City. Yes, he is in favor.
Commissioner Montenegro-Olivas stated no, she is not in favor of having a Commissioner appointed from each district just because of the way it has been working right now. She thinks the Commission is a diverse group, but they could diversify more. There was a discussion in the past about adding members.
The City is growing and maybe adding one or two more members would be appropriate. Her answer is no.
Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated she thinks it is important that all aspects of the City are represented. She is very pleased they now have someone from the Preserve as a Commission member. They did not always have a lot of applicants for this Commission. The fact that they just recently had a lot of applicants is 13
exciting. It is great to have more people with a broader spectrum of skills that can be brought to the Commission. That is very important. It is not just one person per district like the City Council. Districts can begin to pit one section against another, and you have to be careful. She does not see that as a problem on this Commission because they have seven members. Her answer is no. Right now, she is glad the Commission finally has someone from the Preserve who applied. She does not know the previous applicants and where they were from, but in the past, the applicants she has known have not been a broad representation of the areas. The Commission should not be locked into districts, but if Council decides to do so, that is fine. We have seven positions, so we have plenty of room for more than one Commissioner from a specific district.
Chairperson Martinez stated the Commission is a well-rounded group. They have to know the City and attend events everywhere, not in just one district.
They have to be well rounded. He thinks it would be limiting to accept applications by districts. It is doing a disservice to the Commission because the applications would diminish, and you might not get the best qualified applicants.
It should be an open candidacy. His answer is no.
Question #2: Should terms limits be established for Community Services, Parks & Recreation Commissioners?
Commissioner Arlt had no comment.
Commissioner Aviles stated she was appointed to take over a previous Commissioner's term so her term expires in 12 months. It gives her a very unique perspective, but everyone else's appointment is for four years. In four years, there is a lot that can be done if we allow a two-term limit. That puts us at eight years. She thinks what is unique and so special about Commissioners is that they come from very diverse backgrounds so they bring new and fresh perspectives every time someone new serves. She would like to see new people come on.
It is her recommendation that there be no more than a three-term limit. After 12 years, someone should do something else, because they would be in a different chapter in their lives. She clarified that there is something to be said for institutional memory. It is very important, but institutional memory can also come from other aspects of the City. Council Members could provide a lot of institutional memory. City employees who worked a long time can also provide institutional memory. Commissioner Aviles stated her comments are geared towards the CSPR Commission and institutional memory is important, however, having fresh perspectives is going to be important to this Commission. Yes, to term limits.
Commissioner Jerry stated he is against term limits for Commissioners.
The Commission just had a discussion on a situation regarding field lights at one of our parks. Vice Chairperson Takeuchi was here through the process at the beginning. What a great way to be able to represent what happened then and now. That insight and knowledge really helps the Commission members to understand. If there was a limit to the terms, we would not be able to have that wisdom to help us make good decisions for the future of the City.
He appreciates the different perspectives that are coming to the table.
We need new opinions and some new discussions. He believes a person has the right to interview until they feel their time is up. He loves what he is doing right now. He would hate for it to end before he was ready to say goodbye. 14
Commissioner Marquez stated he had the opportunity to listen to the Planning Commission's comments, so he probably had a little more preparation than the other Commissioners. Planning Commissioner, Kevin Cisneroz, gave an eloquent speech regarding term limits. He has a different opinion than Kevin. He is in favor of term limits, and also prepared his own speech.
Commissioner Marquez recited the following: So, imagine you are in an interview for a Commission seat and the list of candidates is filled with Commissioners with over l O years' experience. Regardless that you are the most qualified, the best interviewer, the best person for the position, you will not get it. Incumbent Commissioners will most likely get the appointment because they are a known entity. When a person walks into the interview with people they have known for years, align with their views, and they have done a good job, it is very difficult to tell them they are not qualified. This is a proven fact by just looking at the terms our Commissioners have served in the past. I am not trying to be disrespectful.
I am not trying to say anything negative, but these are facts. Walt Pocock served on the Commission for 21 years; Brenda Strong served for 19 years; Linda Takeuchi has served for 36 years; Brandon Blanchard at the end of his term will have served 16 years; Kevin Cisneroz at the end of his term will have served seven years, and served on the Community Services Commission prior to that; at the end of Steve Lewis' term, he will have served nine years; I will have served six years, and Robert Martinez will have served eight years at the end of his term.
These are examples and there is nothing wrong with that because that has been the policy in our City. Do not take this information as being disrespectful. I am voicing my opinion, and this is an important time for the City to evaluate this policy. Commissioners today in 2023, have an opportunity to have our voices heard and speak our truth in hopes that City Council can move forward, and hopefully, get a measure approved that will go to the voters in the General Election in 2024. As a community, I believe it is important to change policy and end these ridiculously long-terms in these positions. Our City is changing, and we need new perspectives. Listening to the Planning Commission's comments, I was shocked by a few of the comments, and first, have to address a comment from one of the Planning Commissioners and remind everyone that we do not work for the Mayor, we work for the people of Chino. We are all neighbors in the City, and this position should be about civic engagement and each of our intentions should be to serve our neighbors. We are advocates for our community. Not for power, not for clout, and especially not to serve any particular agenda.
I strongly believe in term limits and believe people should be allowed to serve and not have to wait a decade to be on the Commission. We as a City preach about civic engagement, but the truth is you cannot engage when the people who are appointed claim, they are such a benefit to the City that if they are removed from their position because of term limits, we are doomed and the City will not benefit. Like Commissioner Fraga stated in her comments about other cities' Commissions, they are also seeing this problem with career Commissioners and Council Members. Other cities are approving measures for term limits on Council and Commissions. In fact, between 2016 and 2022, there were 61 cities that approved their measures for term limits on Councils, School Boards, and Commissions. I researched several local cities and many of them have also turned to approving term limits. I will prepare a list of those cities before the workshop, but just to name a few of the local larger cities: Pomona, Fullerton, 15
Long Beach, and Torrance recently approved measures for term limits. In a recent poll conducted by the School of Public Policy from the University of Maryland stated that registered voters nationwide shows 83% of voters favor congressional term limits. California adopted Prop 1604 in 1992, setting term limits for both Senate and State Assembly combined throughout their lifetimes. Even the Governor is limited to two four-year terms. With these facts in mind, it begs the question as to why we need Commissioners servicing for so long. If you cannot implement anything you wanted to do in eight years, you cannot follow through with your promises. Where is the accountability? Where is the succession planning? Why have we not figured out the problems and moved on. To say, the only justification is experience and history is simply a farce, and lacks any kind of quantitive analysis. What variables are we measuring a person's effectiveness based on their experience? We rarely see a vote on anything. Much of the research does show people favor term limits because it is not one policy that cures all, but is a policy that should prevent corruption and cronyism. Just simply because we have done the job and everyone is happy with the status quo, then why change it? I see several problems in this City that have continued with status quo policies and status quo politicians that stifle any real change. I have read the agenda packet we get for our meetings and the agenda packets for Council meetings. Without diving too deep into the anatomy of the packets, City Staff presents the background and recommendations. Sometimes we know if the person has read the agenda packet. If they ask questions or table the issue while they conduct more research and dive into the issue with their neighbors in the city. We also know when someone's rubber stamping policy because that will ensure support. People are so wrapped up in maintaining their positions and arguing against term limits. But why? Incumbency holds great power; free media endorsement and name recognition. In the last General Election, 94% of incumbents nationwide were re-elected. The same policy applies to the Commission. The message of long-term limits promotes to people like me and members of the community who like to serve their community as a Commissioner, you simply cannot beat an incumbent. My advice is to serve your community and move on so someone else can share the experience we all love.
Commissioner Montenegro-Olivas stated she is a political science student.
She thinks they are in a very unique position as CSPR Commissioners.
They oversee community issues and Parks and Recreation, which is very different from the Planning Commission and City Council. She is not in favor of term limits.
We need that history and that perspective from our more seasoned Commissioners. It has worked well so far. With this role, there is a commitment to our City, our community, and she believes that perspectives change overtime, especially serving on the Commission. Commissioner Marquez brought up cities like Pomona and Fullerton, and frankly, Chino is not as big of a city like Pomona and Fullerton. If we were that would be a different discussion. No, she is not in favor of term limits.
Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated this is a little difficult for her because she has been singled out. Her perspective has changed over the years. She has changed, the City has changed. She has changed with the City. She thinks she still has very valuable, up-to-date perspectives to share. We have enough new people coming on all the time. Commissioners can be removed at any time.
They are not voted on. There does not have to be a recall to take them off the 16
Commission. She does not think term limits on the Commission is that important.
Now, if is an elected office, that is entirely up to the electorate. Every elected official has a term limit and if people do not want that elected official in office anymore, they are going to vote him out. It is up to the electorate to decide whether or not an elected official should have a term limit. There is a way to remove them, and we as voters (citizens) need to ensure that happens in those cases. No, she is not in favor of term limits for Commissioners.
Chairperson Martinez stated no for term limits. Commissioner Marquez stated a lot of facts, but Chino is not Pomona or Fullerton. We have been Chino for decades. We have had Commissioners like Vice Chairperson Takeuchi, who is a valuable asset and other Commissioners as well. Commissioner Marquez mentioned there was probably over l 00 years' experience among the Commissioners. If you do have term limits, where are they at? Where are the cities at? City of Chino is always being mentioned, "what a great city. It is a boom town." We constantly have people moving here. Things are changing.
The Commissioners have to go through the application process again just to be fair. What should be done is job evaluation. The Commissioners have to be evaluated to see if they are performing to our standards, and if we are, and we love it; why set term limits if you are providing good input to the City that is valuable. When we apply term limits, it is not a positive for the City. Any city that can have Commissioners or even elected officials for more than 20 years is an asset. For Commission, we should have to reapply, go through the interview process, and have job evaluations. If we are not performing to standards, we can be removed; and you should be. No, he is not in favor of term limits.
Question #3: Should there be a Community Services, Parks & Recreation Commissioner appointed from City's Sphere of Influence - either in an advisory capacity or in a voling capacity?
Commissioner Arlt stated she did not want to make assumptions and asked for further explanation or a definition of what the City means when they use the phrase Sphere of Influence.
Commissioner Arlt stated that she feels that in her years of government relations, she knows what it means. She wanted to make sure she understands what the City means.
Mayor Pro Tern Comstock stated the City has several sections. We have geographical maps designed by LAFCO, and some of those areas fall into the municipality itself, into the city proper. Several of those areas are still considered Chino, but they are in the county area, which is served by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's office and the County itself for different services, such as trash.
The City has multiple spheres, primarily the northwest section of the City that is a Sphere of Influence where there is an expectation at one point by the County and LAFCO that we will annex some of those portions of the City into our community. We also have what we call the center Sphere of Influence. There is one section that falls north of the 60 Freeway and one south of the 60 Freeway that falls down the center corridor of Riverside Drive as you get towards the west portion of the City. There are probably a few other smaller ones maybe in the south portion of the City. We call those the City Sphere of Influence, which is expected to fall into the municipality of Chino at some point in time. When will 17
that happen? It could be years. It has already been years for some of them, but there is an expectation in the future that those spheres will fall into Chino proper.
Commissioner Aviles stated recently the City discussed annexing some parts into our City, especially in the northern part of our City. Is that still considered Sphere of Influence or is that already annexed and now considered part of our City, presumably District 1?
Mayor Pro Tern Comstock stated there are proposals on the table right now for some of those sections to be annexed. There is an island that the City is considering. One of the last island annexations that occurred in the City occurred between Riverside Drive and Chino Avenue, and Pipeline and Norton Avenues. Neither one of those island annexations is actually complete yet. They are still under review by LAFCO and other entities, but they are in the submission process to be annexed into the City. There will be others to follow in the future.
Commissioner Arlt asked if we say yes to this question, we are suggesting that there should be somebody who is not located within the City limits to be on the Commission.
Mayor Pro Tern Comstock stated the ask of this question comes up occasionally from the residents that live in the Sphere. The residents want to feel like they have a voice on things that are happening to the potential annexation.
There are a lot of residents that live in our Sphere right now that do not live in the City. As long-term residents in some of these areas, they are concerned about when a parcel of property gets annexed into the City, and what the future developer has planned for that area. Most of the time, those residents want compatibility to the development, which is why it is so important we as a City seek proper annexation for several different reasons. Can we afford to service those areas appropriately, right in evaluating how we provide services to these locations, as well as what the land use will be in those areas. Right now, the City is working with the County to develop a larger General Plan to our Sphere.
So, we know it is going into a balanced measure with schools, park lands, etc.
The residents ask if they are going to be annexed into this Sphere if it would be possible for them to have a member, either voting or non-voting, that could sit on the Planning Commission and have a voice for the residents that live in the Sphere knowing that they are going to end up in the City at one point.
Commissioner Arlt stated the clarification is really helpful. It puts it into context and helps her to understand that this would be the same as question # 1.
She thinks they can still find good representation on this Commission for those areas, and maybe we consider assigning them like we do the parks or committees. There are annexation areas that we need to be mindful of and represent. Her recommendation to consider as a follow up to talk about how the Commission is going to make sure they are representing those areas. No, to voting member.
Commissioner Aviles stated if there are concerns from the residents of the Sphere of Influence, they can always voice that concern in an open meeting and their concerns will always be validated and looked into. Given that they are not a part of the City, she would rather they do not have a voting capacity on this Commission. Her answer is no.
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Commissioner Jerry stated months ago he was eating at Manna Donuts. There was a car accident at the corner of Riverside Drive and East End Avenue. He ran over to help and called the Chino Police Department. They sent him over to the Sheriff's Department because the location was not in our City. There is a barbeque place across the street. He is sitting in a legend of the City of Chino, yet we are half a block away and they are not a part of our world yet. But they are part of our world. There does not need to be a 100% absolute that we have someone from the Sphere of Influence. His answer would be to open it up to the possibility that they would be represented and have the ability to be on the Commission. We all have great perspectives and have different thoughts and processes, but for someone to give their opinions on a topic the same as another Commissioner gives their option and to be called out as a farce, he personally considers that uncalled for. Commissioner Jerry wanted his statement included in the minutes and on the record that he did not appreciate it. Yes, he is in favor.
Commissioner Marquez stated that he is in favor of having representation of the Sphere of Influence areas. He thinks people in those areas need to start getting involved. They need to start speaking their mind on some of the issues. In the past, the areas that have been annexed have not been brought up to Chino standards for streets, lights, curbs, gutters, for example, and that is a fact. Talking to people who live in those areas, they have never received those standards.
In speaking with City staff members, he was told there was never a cost benefit analysis done to annexing those areas, and how the City was going to be able to recoup their costs to bring those standards up. He believes they should have a voice on the decisions that are made. It took years for someone from the Preserve to have any kind of representation. This is important to consider because when those areas are annexed, whose jurisdiction are they under? He spoke with a lot of people who are upset with the decisions of the County Supervisor to approve some of the projects that are grandfathered in. The City has no say, because they have already been approved by the County Supervisor.
Commissioner Marquez stated back to the conversation and Linda, please do not take offense to what he said regarding Commissioner's terms. He is merely using it as an example. He believes they are fact, and he is entitled to his opinion. This workshop is a public forum. We were invited to give our opinions.
He does not see anything wrong with what he is saying. He was asked to give comment, and that is what he did. That is what he believes in. No one else has to believe in it, but he is only speaking fact.
Commissioner Montenegro-Olivas stated she is in favor of having someone in an advisory capacity from the Sphere of Influence.
Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated she does not take Commissioner Marquez' comments personally. Some years ago, they did have someone from the Sphere of Influence on this Commission. It was felt by Council at that time that there should be someone on either the Planning Commission or Community Services Commission that did not live in the City, but was voting on monetary kinds of items. The Planning Commission items are not just monetary, they are legal. If they are not official voting members in the City, they should not have a voting position on the Commission. They are not a taxpayes. Why are they voting on how our City money is spent? That was the bottom line. That is why it became 19
an issue for a member of the Sphere of Influence to be on a Commission in the City. Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated she does not think it is an issue on this Commission, except for fireworks that are not allowed in the County area.
You need to be a City of Chino resident in order to be on a City of Chino Commission. However, she would be in favor of a non-voting advisory member because we are not voting on budget items or regulations except for fireworks.
She does not think it is important on this Commission, and she would certainly welcome them. They need to be a part of our City. They are a part of our City socially, historically, and emotionally, but are just not quite legal yet. That is the way our system is. So voting member no, but she would certainly be open to advisory, non-voting.
Commissioner Marquez asked if the annexed areas are paying City taxes.
Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated if they are annexed, yes, they are part of the City. If they are in the Sphere of Influence or still going through annexation, no, they do not pay taxes.
Chairperson Martinez stated he grew up by Don Lugo High School, but they were in the County. It was the City, but they did not have the same amenities.
He believes they should use someone in an advisory capacity from the Sphere of Influence. As for voting, that is something to look at as a whole. If they had someone representing them, they would have had more input. It would be important to have an individual in an advisory capacity. As far as voting, that would have to be looked at by the City Council. No right now for voting, but to be looked at later.
Ms. Avalos asked for clarification of the Commissioners' responses to Question #3:
Commissioner Arlt - No, advisory; No, voting
Aviles - No, advisory; No, voting
Jerry - Yes, advisory; deferred voting to the City Council Marquez- Yes, advisory; Yes, voting
Montenegro - Yes, advisory; No, voting
Takeuchi - No, advisory; No, voting
Martinez - Yes, advisory; Discussion to be continued on voting Chairperson Martinez asked if there was liability of a voting capacity conflict because they are not actually in the City. It is something to look in to.
Ms. Avalos stated we will include your question in our notes to ask if that is a liability.
Chairperson Martinez stated if an area is annexed in, then they are officially part of the City. They should be able to vote. It is something we need to look at.
Commissioner Marquez stated this is going to have to be revisited at some point, because if they are paying taxes, they should have representation.
Question #4: Should there be any other changes in how Community Services, Parks & Recreation Commissioners are qualified and/or appointed? Commissioner Arlt stated she is too new to the process to have any extended comments. So, no comment.
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Commissioner Aviles stated she does not know what the current qualifications are. She does not think there is a set list of qualifications. She does not have a comment about what additional changes need to be made. She applied to be Commissioner four times, and this is the first time she is actually being appointed as a Commissioner. She deferred the question.
Commissioner Jerry stated the first time he applied to be a Commissioner, he did not get an interview, but he thinks some great changes have been made since those days. He is very pleased to get a chance to be interviewed.
The applicant's qualifications are listed, and through the interview process either accepted or denied. Some of us have been on the side of being denied, and it did not feel great, but we kept going at it and we are here today because of it.
He believes the process that is in place today is good. So, no changes.
Commissioner Marquez stated he is going to default back to his previous statement to remind everyone that we on the Commission did not go up against an incumbent Commissioner so, we got the opportunity to get these seats when those seats opened. He feels they should not be lifetime appointments. They should have an opportunity to give other people a chance to be a Commissioner and enjoy this position. What are the qualifications and how are the Commissioners evaluated on both Commissions? That was the point he was making with his previous speech. Once you are on the Commission, it is hard to tell a Commissioner no. That is why he said what he said tonight. It is very difficult to beat incumbent Commissioners. That is just the way the City has been.
Changes need to be made to add term limits.
Commissioner Montenegro-Olivas stated the process now is pretty good.
The interview process is good and that is when the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tern review the qualifications of the applicants. Commissioner Montenegro-Olivas stated Commissioner Aviles is the first of the Commissioners from the Preserve.
How do we get more people to want to apply and to be more involved? It has more to do with outreach. The process we have right now is pretty good, no changes need to be made.
Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated every three years she had to apply as well.
She is grateful that she was appointed every time. She thinks she has a lot of value. She has changed from when she was first appointed, she had young children and now has grandchildren, and she has a different perspective than she did when her children were young. Vice Chairperson Takeuchi stated she trusts those who appoint the Commissioners are aware of the changes in their continuing contributions. There have been many who applied that have reapplied and had been told no more, you are not staying on. There have been Commissioners who have been removed mid-term for other reasons. She does not think there should be any changes to the process.
Chairperson Martinez stated regarding qualifications, you need to be invested in the City. If you have just moved to the City and apply, you could bring some great qualities. Investment in the City does not necessarily mean you are a homeowner, but you are a stakeholder here in the City, so you are going to be here for a while instead of just applying for a position because you have always wanted to be a Commissioner. You come to this City and there is an opening and you apply, then maybe moving in a few years. Then we are losing some of 21
your value. Something to be looked at is what investment do the applicants have in the City, and how long do you plan to stay.
Chairperson Martinez stated another topic discussed was job evaluation, performance. He thinks that is key. If you are an elected official, your community looks at you hard. You know when the next voting period comes, did you do your job in the four years that you were there or not. You would not be elected if you did not. We need to look at job performance for each and every one of us and if there is anything happening with us or our performance, maybe be talked to or written up. He thinks everyone on the Commission has done, and will do, a great job. Consider job evaluation, performance, and how much investment do you have in the city.
Chairperson Martinez stated there was a lot of good things said. Jamie is fairly new and had a lot of great points; Greg, you had a lot of facts, you do your research. Everyone here has their opinions and that is great. That is what makes a Commissioner on any board great. You need the differences, and it is important to state your point of view and discuss it. He appreciates the Commissioners' input.
Moved by Vice Chairperson Takeuchi, seconded by Commissioner Marquez, and carried on a 7-0-0-0 vote lo forward the recommendations to the City Council.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Arlt, Aviles, Jerry, Marquez, Martinez, Montenegro-Olivas, and Takeuchi
None
None
None
2. Review and Establish Commissioners' Assignments and Parks:
Chairperson Martinez asked if the Commissioners are happy with their current assignments and parks or if they would like to make any changes. He asked Commissioners Arlt and Aviles if they would like to assume the parks and assignments previously held by former Commissioners.
Listed below is the revised Assignments and Parks List:
Assignments
► School District Relations - Neal Jerry, Robert Martinez, and Julissa Montenegro-Olivas. o Meets twice a month at 6:00 p.m., with additional special meetings scheduled. ► Chino Cultural Foundation - Robert Martinez and Jamie Aviles (Alternate) o Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. ► Focus of Youth - Gregory Marquez
o Meets the l st Monday of each month at l l :00 a.m.
► Boxing Foundation - Julissa Montenegro-Olivas
o Meets the fourth Wednesday of each month at 5:00 p.m. ► Seniors- Patricia Pereda Arlt and Linda Takeuchi
► Healthy Chino Coalition Gregory Marquez and Patricia Pereda Arlt o Meets the 3•d Thursday of March, June, and September at 9:00 a.m. ► Teen Advisory Committee {TAC) -Julissa Montenegro-Olivas and Neal Jerry (Alternate) o Meets the pt Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m.
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► Chino Youth Museum Board - Gregory Marquez and Robert Martinez {Alternate) o Meets the 4th Monday of the month at 5:00 p.m.
► Community Development Block Grant {CDBGI Review Sub-Committee T.B.D. o Meets annually.
► Fireworks Review Sub-Committee - Neal Jerry, Jamie Aviles, and Linda Takeuchi o Meets as needed.
► User Fees Review Sub-Committee - T.B.D.
o Meets annually.
► Civic Center Master Plan Committee
{Alternate I
o Meets T.B.D.
Robert Martinez and Gregory Marquez
► Sphere of Influence Steering Committee - Linda Takeuchi and Patricia Pereda Arlt {Alternate)
o Meets T.B.D.
► Parks and Facilities Master Plan Committee - Gregory Marquez, Linda Takeuchi, and Robert Martinez {Alternate)
o Meets T.B.D.
► Chino Valley Historical Society- Robert Martinez and Jamie Aviles {Alternate) o Meets the l st Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m.
► Park Naming Sub-Committee - Gregory Marquez, Robert Martinez, and Julissa Montenegro-Olivas
o Meets as needed.
► Housing Element Steering Committee - Linda Takeuchi and Gregory Marquez o Meets T.B.D.
► General Plan Advisory Committee - Robert Martinez and Neal Jerry o Meets T.B.D.
Parks
► Patricia Pereda Arlt- Ayala, Liberty, and Chino Rancho ► Jamie Aviles - Founders, Garden, Forest, Nature Retreat, Meridian, and Discovery ► Gregory Marquez - Shady Grove, Constellation, and Olympic ► Robert Martinez - Monte Vista, Heritage, and Community Building ► Julissa Montenegro-Olivas - Mountain View, Sebring, and Mcleod ► Neal Jerry - Carolyn Owens Centennial Square, Cypress Trails, and Community Garden ► Linda Takeuchi -Aguiar Square, Villa, and Walnut
Moved by Commissioner Montenegro-Olivas, seconded Commissioner Jerry, and carried on a 7-0-0-0 vote to approve the changes to the assignments and parks.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
VII. ADJOURNMENT
Arlt, Aviles, Jerry, Marquez, Martinez, Montenegro-Olivas, and Takeuchi
None
None
None
Chairperson Martinez adjourned the meeting at 8:23 p.m. 23 APPROVED THIS 25TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2023.
Marsha Ariyasu
Management Assistant
(Workshop Minutes - August 2023)
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