Agenda — Legislative Policy Committee, November 20, 2025

Those persons wishing to speak on any item included on the agenda, or on any matter within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Legislative Policy Committee, are invited fill out and submit to the City Clerk or Deputy 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 the Legislative Policy Committee 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.

LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
REGULAR MEETING – CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
13220 CENTRAL AVENUE
CHINO, CA 91710
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2025
3:00 PM
AGENDA

ROLL CALL
Mayor Eunice M. Ulloa and Council Member Karen C. Comstock.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
This is the time and place for the general public to address the Legislative Policy Committee about subjects that do not appear elsewhere on the agenda. Due to Brown Act requirements, action will not be taken on any issues not on the Agenda.

CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Minutes. Approve Committee Minutes for the meeting on September 23, 2025 (All Committee Members Present).

NEW BUSINESS

2. Government Relations Update. Receive a report on federal, state, and regional issues, including City outreach and communications. Receive and file.

Report by: Vivian Castro, Deputy City Manager.

3. Update on Federal Issues. Receive an oral report on federal legislative and budget issues.

Receive and file.

Report by: Jamie Jones, David Turch & Associates.

LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
NOVEMBER 20, 2025 2

4. Update on State Issues. Receive an oral report on state legislative issues. Receive and file.

Report by: Jason Gonsalves, Anthony Gonsalves & Son.

5. Major New State Laws for 2026. Receive a report on major new state laws for 2026 impacting the City. Receive and file.

Report by: Fred Galante, City Attorney.

6. Review the City of Chino Legislative Policy. Discuss and provide direction to staff.

Report by: Vivian Castro, Deputy City Manager.

ADJOURN
The next Regular Meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee will be held as needed in these Council Chambers with at least 72 hours’ notice per the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act.

I, Natalie Gonzaga, City Clerk of the City of Chino, hereby declare that on Friday, November 14, 2025, 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

LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
REGULAR MEETING – CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
13220 CENTRAL AVENUE
CHINO, CA 91710
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025
3:00 PM

MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER
The September 23, 2025, Regular Meeting of the City of Chino Legislative Committee was called to order 3:12 p.m. by Mayor Ulloa in the Council Chambers.

ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Mayor Ulloa and Council Member Karen C. Comstock ABSENT: NONE.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no requests to speak.

CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Minutes. Approve Committee Minutes for the meetings on March 28, May 24, September 13, 2023; January 9, March 21, May 8, November 21, 2024; March 17, April 8, May 13, June 17, and August 12, 2025 (All Committee Members Present).

Mayor Ulloa noted that there was no Legislative Committee meeting on May 13, 2025, so that document will not be included in the approval.

Motion by Council Member Comstock, seconded by Mayor Ulloa, to approve Consent Calendar Item 1 – Minutes, as presented, with the exception of the May 13, 2025 minutes, as no meeting was held on that date. The motion carried by the following vote:

AYES: ULLOA AND COMSTOCK
NOES: NONE.

ABSENT: NONE.

NEW BUSINESS

2. Update on Federal Issues. Receive a report on federal legislative and budget issues. Receive and file.

Jamie Jones, David Turch & Associates, who participated virtually, provided a presentation on federal legislative and budget issues.

LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 2

3. Update on State Issues. Receive a report on state legislative and budget issues. Provide direction to staff on draft signature and veto request letters to Governor Newsom.

Report by: Vivian Castro, Deputy City Manager; and Jason Gonsalves, Joe A. Gonsalves & Son.

Jason Gonsalves, Joe A. Gonsalves & Son, who participated virtually, provided a presentation on state legislative and budget issues.

4. Government Relations Update. Receive a report on federal, state, and regional outreach and communications. Receive and file.

Vivian Castro, Deputy City Manager, provided a report on the item. Ms. Castro requested approval from the Committee on various position letters provided in the agenda packet, with the exception of SB 627, which was already signed by Governor Newsom on September 20, 2025. The Committee provided approval for the various position letters.

Ms. Castro noted staff is working on scheduling an October meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee. If the Committee is unable to meet in October, a written report regarding the Governor’s action on bills awaiting his signature will be provided.

Jason Gonsalves provided an update on the upcoming California Governor's race.

ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 3:44 p.m. The next Regular Meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee will be held as needed in these Council Chambers with at least 72 hours’ notice per the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20TH DAY OF NOVEMBER 2025.

EUNICE M. ULLOA, MAYOR

COMMITTEE MEMBER
ATTEST:

NATALIE GONZAGA, CITY CLERK
**************************************************
(These minutes are not official until signed.)

M E M O R A N D U M

CITY OF CHINO

ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2025
TO: LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
FROM: VIVIAN CASTRO, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: GOVERNMENT RELATIONS UPDATE

RECOMMENDATION
Receive and file.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with this action.

CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES:

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS UPDATE
As of November 12, 2025 (November 20, 2025 Legislative Committee Agenda)

FEDERAL UPDATE
Federal Budget
The federal fiscal year began on October 1. As of November 12, 2025, the federal government remains shut down for its 43rd day, marking the longest shutdown in U.S. history due to a lack of appropriations.

Most government activities are paused unless deemed essential, such as air traffic control, law enforcement, military operations, and TSA activities.

After 14 failed Senate votes to approve the House version of the funding bill, on the 15th Senate vote, eight Democratic senators voted in support of a Senate stopgap spending bill on Sunday evening, November 9, following Senate Republican leadership's promise to hold a vote by next month on extending health insurance tax credits that are set to expire. Other Democrats who consider the expiring health care tax credits the center of the party's shutdown demands condemned their voting with the Republicans.

The legislation is now pending in the House, with a possible vote on Wednesday evening, November 12, when House members return to D.C. The House has not been in session since September 19, when it passed a short-term funding measure that was subsequently voted down by the Senate on numerous occasions.

The proposed funding bill would:
• Fund the federal government through January 30, 2026
• Reinstate laid-off federal workers and provide back pay • Funds three annual spending bills: Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Agriculture, and the Legislative Branch through September 2026. It funds military construction, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Orders that state governments be reimbursed for any federal expenses they paid during the shutdown
The bill does not include the extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits that expire at the end of the year, but a promise by Senate Republicans to hold a vote on the issue next month.

STATE UPDATE
California Redistricting Election
Proposition 50, the redistricting measure on the November 4th Special Election ballot, passed, with over 64% of voters in support. The measure redraws California’s congressional districts, with the potential to add up to five seats favoring Democrats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Proposition 50 was introduced in response to Texas’s redistricting, which was seen as benefiting Republicans.

The day following the election, the California Republican Party filed a lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to prevent Proposition 50's maps from taking effect.

Under the Proposition 50 maps, the City of Chino would be split into two congressional districts. 2 TRACKED STATE LEGISLATION REPORT
There is no report this month as the first year of the state legislative session has concluded and the legislature is in recess.

POSITION LETTERS & MAJOR ISSUES
No letters on legislation or regulatory issues have been submitted since the October 15, 2025, report on the City Council agenda.

STATE LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR – Recent and Upcoming Legislative Deadlines • Jan. 1 - Statutes take effect.
• Jan. 5 - Legislature reconvenes for second year of the 2025-26 Regular Session. • Jan. 10 - Budget must be submitted by Governor.
• Jan. 16 - Last day for policy committees to hear and report to fiscal committees fiscal bills introduced in their house in the odd-numbered year.
• Jan. 19 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
• Jan. 23 - Last day for any committee to hear and report to the Floor bills introduced in that house in the odd-numbered year.
- Last day to submit bill requests to the Office of Legislative Counsel. • Jan. 31 - Last day for each house to pass bills introduced in that house in the odd-numbered year. • Feb. 16 - Presidents’ Day.
• Feb. 20 - Last day for bills to be introduced.

M E M O R A N D U M

CITY OF CHINO

ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2025
TO: LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
FROM: VIVIAN CASTRO, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: UPDATE ON FEDERAL ISSUES

RECOMMENDATION
Receive a report on federal legislative and budget issues. Receive and file.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with this action.

CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES:

The recommendation detailed above furthers 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
• Exemplary Leadership
• Public Service Excellence through Internal and External Partnerships City of Chino – Legislative Committee
November 20, 2025

UPDATE ON FEDERAL ISSUES
Consultant Jamie Jones, of Turch & Associates, will provide an oral report on federal legislative and budget issues.

M E M O R A N D U M

CITY OF CHINO

ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2025
TO: LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
FROM: VIVIAN CASTRO, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: UPDATE ON STATE ISSUES

RECOMMENDATION
Receive a report on state legislative and budget issues. Receive and file.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with this action.

CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES:

UPDATE ON STATE ISSUES
Consultant Jason Gonsalves, of Anthony Gonsalves & Son, will provide an oral report on state legislative and issues.

M E M O R A N D U M

CITY OF CHINO

ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2025
TO: LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
FROM: VIVIAN CASTRO, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: MAJOR NEW STATE LAWS FOR 2026

RECOMMENDATION
Receive a report on major new state laws for 2026 impacting the City. Receive and file.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with this action.

CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES:

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On June 30, 2025, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill (AB) 130 and Senate Bill (SB) 131 that will streamline the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review process for specified housing development projects.

The first bill, AB 130, exempts from CEQA housing developments that meet local zoning, density, and objective planning standards so long as they are not located on a site where a “recognized environmental condition is found.” The second bill, SB 131, broadens the exemptions and establishes a process for reviewing housing development projects that meet all but one eligibility criterion for the specified CEQA exemptions, with a specified exclusion. These changes will take effect immediately.

Changes Made by AB 130
AB 130 exempts certain housing development projects from CEQA if the housing development project meets certain conditions relating to size, density, location, and use, including additional requirements for housing located within 500 feet of a freeway. It requires local governments to notify California Native American tribes affiliated with the project site and invite consultation within set timeframes. As a condition of approval and before the issuance of the certificate of occupancy, developers must complete an environmental assessment for hazardous substance release, and if contamination is found, conduct a preliminary endangerment assessment and specified mitigation based on that assessment.

AB 130 and SB 131: Key CEQA Changes
Impacting Local Review of Housing
Projects
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AB 130 also requires that prevailing wage requirements apply to 100% affordable housing projects, even if the project is not classified as a public work. Additionally, the bill mandates the use of a skilled and trained workforce for any buildings exceeding 85 feet in height.

Changes Made by SB 131
SB 131 establishes a new review process for housing projects that meet all but one of the criteria for a CEQA exemption. Under this process, the environmental review, whether an EIR or initial study, is limited to analyzing only the impacts directly related to the single disqualifying condition. It also eliminates the requirement to evaluate project alternatives, cumulative impacts, or growth-inducing effects that are typically part of a full EIR.

Amongst other changes, SB 131 expands CEQA exemptions to cover a broad range of project types. Some include new and existing farmworker housing projects; certain wildfire risk reduction efforts, and nonprofit food banks and pantries. This bill also exempts from CEQA any rezoning that implements an approved housing element. These exemptions do not apply to a project located on “natural and protected areas.”
AB 130 and SB 131 bring substantial changes to CEQA procedures and impose new responsibilities on local agencies in reviewing and approving housing projects. A key takeaway for local agencies is the need to review and potentially revise internal processes to ensure compliance with these new requirements. If your agency needs guidance implementing these changes or evaluating project eligibility under the new laws, please contact the authors or another member of our team—we are here to help.

Aleshire & Wynder LLP provides unparalleled legal representation to local communities throughout California.

Our attorneys have been loyally serving public agencies for over 50 years.

For further information, please contact Fred Galante of Aleshire & Wynder, LLP at [email protected]. Mr. Galante is a founding partner of Aleshire & Wynder. Mr. Galante provides both general and special counsel services to cities and public agencies regarding general governance, complex real estate development, entitlements, land use, California Environmental Quality Act, and housing law. He serves as City Attorney and Successor Agency Counsel to the Cities of Chino and Cypress. He also serves as General Counsel to the Orange County Council of Governments, Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino, and the Home Gardens County Water District and Special Counsel to the San Diego Housing Commission and San Diego County Water Authority.

For further information, please contact Vrunda Shah of Aleshire & Wynder, LLP’s at [email protected]. Vrunda Shah is an associate at Aleshire & Wynder in the Oakland office, and currently serves as the Deputy City Attorney of Cupertino and Yuba City. She regularly advises city and district staff on a wide range of municipal law matters, including the Brown Act, conflicts of interest, the Public Records Act, Elections Code, Political Reform Act, CEQA, NEPA, ordinance and resolution drafting, contract negotiation and enforcement, and land use and planning. She is committed to responsive client service and community engagement.

Ms. Shah also has experience representing public agencies in litigation, including matters involving contract enforcement, personal injury, and municipal code enforcement. Or visit our website at awattorneys.com.

This communication is not intended to be, and does not constitute, legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by reading it. Seek the advice of an attorney before acting or relying upon any information Read More Client Alerts
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AB 339 Makes a Significant Impact on Public Agency ContracƟng and Labor RelaƟons Here's what you need to know:

AB 339, enacted on October 13, 2025, introduces Government Code SecƟon 3504.1, requiring public enƟƟes to provide wriƩen noƟce to recognized employee organizaƟons no less than 45 days before issuing requests for proposals (RFPs), requests for quotes, or renewing/extending contracts related to the scope of work of represented job classificaƟons. ExisƟng law requires reasonable noƟce to affected employee organizaƟons regarding ordinances, rules, resoluƟons, or regulaƟons proposed to be adopted by the local agency, except in cases of emergency. Further, the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act (MMBA) governs meet and confer requirements regarding wages, hours, and other terms and condiƟons of employment. In enacƟng the language of AB 339, the Legislature effecƟvely expanded the noƟce requirement to include outsourcing work, without imposing meet and confer requirements when doing so.

Determining the Scope of Work
Although the Legislature has not officially defined “scope of work,” it is clear that it intended to relate the scope of work directly to the job descripƟons of employees represented by the bargaining unit.

Public enƟƟes should interpret the phrase “scope of work” broadly by assessing the similariƟes of the work performed by the employees under recognized employee organizaƟons relaƟve to the intended subcontracted work. AddiƟonally, the local agency could evaluate beforehand what changes to the exisƟng bargaining unit might miƟgate the need for subcontracƟng, such as agreeing to freeze pay in order to lower the cost of labor or hiring temporary employees to increase scale, to determine whether that bargaining unit’s scope of work is implicated.

WriƩen NoƟce Requirement
WriƩen noƟce to the recognized employee organizaƟon must include informaƟon regarding the anƟcipated duraƟon of the contract, the scope of work under the contract, the anƟcipated cost of the contract, the reason the public agency believes the contract is necessary, and the draŌ solicitaƟon or any informaƟon that would normally be included in a solicitaƟon if it is not yet draŌed. While informal noƟce may have been sufficient prior to AB 339, wriƩen noƟce is now required to provide the bargaining unit Ɵme to meaningfully assess its opƟon to engage under the relevant bargaining agreement and potenƟally miƟgate the need to outsource work.

No Meet and Confer ObligaƟon
AB 399 was craŌed to emphasize that the new law does not: 1) exempt contracts from the noƟce, meet and confer, or other requirements of applicable laws; 2) affect other bargaining rights and obligaƟons created in other secƟons of Gov. Code secƟon 3500, et seq.; 3) diminish any rights of an employee or recognized employee organizaƟon provided by a memorandum of understanding; or 4) invalidate any provision of a memorandum of understanding in effect on the operaƟve date of secƟon 3504.1. While an employee organizaƟon has the right to meet and confer under other applicable laws or agreements, AB 339 also allows for the employee organizaƟon to request a meet and confer without obligaƟng the public enƟty to engage in collecƟve bargaining before proceeding with the request for proposals, request for quotes, or changes to exisƟng contracts.

ExcepƟons to AB 339
The Legislature incorporated excepƟons to AB 339, meaning it does not apply to the following:
(1) A contract for construcƟon, alteraƟon, demoliƟon, installaƟon, repair, or maintenance work under specified secƟons of the Labor Code, or a contract for highly specialized data, soŌware, or services related to that construcƟon, alteraƟon, demoliƟon, installaƟon, repair, or maintenance work.
(2) Specific contracts for services or contracts that are related to the planning, design, administraƟon, oversight, review, or delivery of public works, residenƟal, commercial, or industrial buildings, or other infrastructure projects subject to adopted uniform codes or standards.

AddiƟonally, a public enƟty must only provide as much noƟce as is “pracƟcable” in emergencies or other exigent circumstances which prevent the required 45-day noƟce, although ”pracƟcable” is not specifically defined.

Reimbursement for Cost of ImplementaƟon
The new law also provides that no reimbursements for mandated costs shall be made by the state for costs associated with implementaƟon of this secƟon, but also recognizes that a local agency or school may pursue remedies in order to obtain reimbursement under any other applicable laws.

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SB 707 was signed by Governor Newsom on October 3, 2025. Among several other changes, this bill revises the Brown Act’s teleconferencing requirements and contains new rules regarding accessibility for disabled and non-English speaking communities.

SB 707 maintains existing Brown Act teleconferencing rules, such as posting agendas at all locations, and providing public access to each site. The bill applies certain new rules to “eligible legislative bodies” effective July 1, 2026, defined as city councils in cities with populations of 30,000 or more, city councils in counties of 600,000 or more people, and certain large special districts. The bill reorganizes and expands teleconferencing provisions, incorporates prior “just cause” rules (AB 2449) and “emergency circumstances” rules (AB 361), and extends their applicability through January 1, 2030.

Some Key Changes:

Eligible legislative bodies must provide a two-way telephonic and a live webcast or audiovisual platform at all open public meetings. Prior to July 1, 2026, eligible legislative bodies must adopt in open session a policy for restoring service in the event of a broadcast disruption.

Eligible legislative bodies must translate agendas for each meeting into “applicable languages” (any language spoken jointly by 20 percent or more of an applicable population that also speaks English less than “very well” according to the American Community Survey).

Eligible legislative bodies must translate the internet webpage dedicated to public meetings into “applicable languages.”
Eligible legislative bodies must make an agenda posting area publicly available for the public to post translations of the agenda in other languages.

SB 707: Key Updates to the Brown Act
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Legislative bodies are required to orally report a summary of any recommendation of final action on compensation for a local agency executives, department heads or other comparable administrative officer during an open meeting at which the final action is to be taken.

A member of the legislative body with a disability may participate remotely as a reasonable accommodation, including participation via audio only if their condition prevents participation on camera.

Local agencies must provide a copy of the Brown Act to all elected and appointed members of legislative bodies.

This client alert provides a brief summary of some provisions of SB 707. Please contact us for further guidance in understanding and implementing all requirements of the new law. We are here to support you in ensuring your public meetings remain compliant with the updated Brown Act Requirements.

About the Author: Vrunda Shah is an Associate in Aleshire & Wynder's Oakland office, and currently serves as the Deputy City Attorney of Cupertino and Yuba City. She regularly advises city and district staff on a wide range of municipal law matters, including the Brown Act, conflicts of interest, the Public Records Act, Elections Code, Political Reform Act, CEQA, NEPA, ordinance and resolution drafting, contract negotiation and enforcement, and land use and planning.

Vrunda's experience also includes representing public
agencies in litigation - matters involving contract enforcement, personal injury, and municipal code enforcement. She can be reached at [email protected].

This communication is not intended to be, and does not constitute, legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by reading it. Seek the advice of an attorney before acting or relying upon any information in this communication. Facts specific to your situation or future developments may affect subjects contained herein. This communication may be considered ATTORNEY ADVERTISING in some states.

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SB 827: New Mandated Fiscal & Ethics Training
SB 827: Mandates Fiscal Training & Expands Ethics Training Here's what you need to know:

SB 827 was signed by Governor Newsom on October 11, 2025, and will take effect on January 1, 2026. This bill, which amends Government Code Section 52324 et. seq. and adds Section 52328 et. seq., mandates expanded ethics training and establishes a fiscal training requirement for local agencies and special districts.

Key Updates Established by SB 827
The existing ethics training requirement for local elected officials and governing body members (AB 1234) is expanded to include department heads and similar administrative officers.

Local agencies with websites must post clear instructions and contact information for the public to request ethics and fiscal training records starting July 1, 2026.

Local agencies must ensure officials who begin service on or after January 1, 2026, complete ethics training within six months of starting.

A new fiscal and financial training requirement mandate all local agency officials involved in financial oversight receive at least two hours of training every two years covering budgeting, debt management, auditing, revenue mechanisms, investments, and ethical stewardship. Certain officials like county auditors and treasurers who already comply with fiscal training requirements are exempt from this requirement.

Agencies may contract with approved training providers, require proof of participation, and mandate annual information sharing with officials about these trainings.

Agencies must retain training completion records for at least five years showing dates and training providers, with public disclosure under the California Public Records Act.

Officials serving as of January 1, 2026 must complete fiscal training by January 1, 2028, with ongoing biennial training thereafter.

We are available to assist you with understanding and implementing these changes. If you have any questions or need any guidance on compliance with SB 827, please do not hesitate to contact us.

About the Author
Priyanka Shah is an Associate at Aleshire & Wynder in the Irvine office, specializing in public law and local government matters. She provides strategic legal counsel to cities and other governmental agencies on a wide range of topics, including municipal contracting and procurement, code enforcement, governance and compliance, and the Public Records Act. Originally from the East Coast, Priyanka settled in California after years of study, work, and travel, and is committed to serving her clients and community with professionalism and integrity.

This communication is not intended to be, and does not constitute, legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by reading it. Seek the advice of an attorney before acting or relying upon any information in this communication. Facts specific to your situation or future developments may affect subjects contained herein. This communication may be considered ATTORNEY ADVERTISING in some states.

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M E M O R A N D U M

CITY OF CHINO

ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2025
TO: LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
FROM: VIVIAN CASTRO, DEPUTY CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: REVIEW OF THE CITY OF CHINO LEGISLATIVE POLICY

RECOMMENDATION
Discuss and provide direction to staff.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with this action.

CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES:

REVIEW OF THE CITY OF CHINO LEGISLATIVE POLICY
Deputy City Manager Vivian Castro will provide a report on the City’s Legislative Policy.

Administrative Policy
Citywide Legislative Policy
v. RN 2024-002 (2024-04-02) Page 1
I. Purpose Statement
To address legislative and regulatory concerns in a timely manner, this Citywide Legislative Policy details guiding principles organized around respective legislative, policy, and regulatory matters. This Citywide Legislative Policy supplements the Citywide Strategic Plan to build an effective and flexible legislative advocacy strategy.

II. Guiding Principles
The Citywide Legislative Policy Guiding Principles are fundamental, overarching concepts that can be applied to respective legislative and/or regulatory matters. While legislative or regulatory proposals vary in breadth and complexity, these guiding principles will help narrow the focus to those matters that are the most consequential to the City of Chino. The Citywide Legislative Policy Guiding Principles include:
 Preserve Local Control: The City will advocate to ensure that proposed legislation supports or expands the decision-making authority of a local agency to provide public services to its community. Preserving local control recognizes that Chino residents, through their democratic expression, have voted into office local elected officials who are best suited to make decisions that impact the immediate community. This also recognizes that imposing State mandates without appropriate reimbursement (commonly referred to as unfunded mandates) unnecessarily encumbers City resources, placing an unreasonable burden on the ability of local agencies to best serve their community.  Protect and Expand Local Funding and Public Finance: The City will support measures that add to funding sources (e.g., grants or other funding programs). Likewise, the City will support legislation that protects existing funding sources, revenue bases, and local control over municipal budgeting. Conversely, the City will oppose efforts to shift local funds to State or County governments. The City will also support legislation that, through transparent tax structures and revenue allocations, seeks to secure predictability in annual tax yields.
 Enhance Quality of Life: The City will support legislation that advocates for the safety, well-being, and security of its residents, businesses, and visitors. This includes legislation that assists the City and its local partners to help families with childcare needs or by providing robust after school programs; this also includes support for those struggling with mental health and/or experiencing homelessness. Finally, the City will support legislation that promotes public safety operations and enhances the ability of public safety officers to protect their community, deter crime, and hold criminals accountable.

Administrative Policy
Citywide Legislative Policy
v. RN 2024-002 (2024-04-02) Page 2
III. Legislative, Regulatory, and Policy Areas:

The following, in no particular order, are specific legislative and policy areas concerning the City of Chino. Identifying these issues narrows the City’s focus on specific matters within the scope of the City’s Guiding Principles.

A. ONTARIO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (ONT): As a neighbor to ONT, the City of Chino has a clear interest in fostering a collaborative relationship with the Federal Aviation Administration, the City of Ontario, and the Ontario International Airport Authority.

Therefore, the City will:
i. Support efforts that consider the quality of life for communities adjacent to ONT.

This includes promoting environmentally safe aviation techniques that lessen the airport’s carbon footprint and noise pollution generated from its activity. ii. Support efforts to utilize other airports within the Greater Los Angeles area that can accommodate increased activity.
iii. Support legislative and regulatory initiatives to study and mitigate the noise and air quality impacts that are associated with air traffic overflights. iv. Support legislation that seeks to promote local control with airport administration and oppose efforts to regionalize aviation oversight as to minimize adjacent community concerns and influences.

B. FEDERAL LEGISLATION: The City of Chino partners with federal agencies and utilizes federal programs to deliver public services or improve undeveloped land. Therefore, the City will:
i. Support legislation that promotes flexibility to utilize funds that best meet local needs.
ii. Work with federal agencies to develop sustainable land use and infrastructure plans in the southern part of Chino adjacent to the Prado Basin and Santa Ana River. iii. Engage local representatives to leverage federal funding for backbone infrastructure projects and social services.

C. HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS: By representing Chino residents, it is understood that Chino elected officials are best suited to make policy decisions surrounding local land uses. Thus, the City of Chino will support legislation that strengthens local control over land use decisions. Therefore, the City will:
i. Oppose any development agreement located in the City’s sphere of influence that does not align with City standards or its General Plan. ii. Support legislation that simplifies and streamlines Housing Element requirements.

Administrative Policy
Citywide Legislative Policy
v. RN 2024-002 (2024-04-02) Page 3
iii. Support measures that provide funding to help cities address affordable housing concerns.
iv. Support efforts that increase City input when Regional Housing Needs Assessments are analyzed and developed.
v. Support any measure or legislation that seeks to preserve or build the City’s local control over planning and zoning matters.

D. FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AND STABILITY: Chino is a dynamic and growing community that requires and expects robust public services. This means the City will adamantly protect its revenue sources while simultaneously taking prudent measures to control operational costs. Therefore, the City will:
i. Support legislation or proposals that provide greater financial independence from the State by affording the City greater latitude to generate and control its revenue sources.
ii. Oppose legislation that creates an unfunded mandate. iii. Oppose legislation that unfairly redistributes general-purpose tax revenue (e.g., sales tax revenue yields from online purchases).
iv. Oppose legislation that limits discretion with locally imposed taxes. v. Oppose legislation that removes or limits tax exemptions from municipal bonds. vi. Support legislation that builds predictability in local government tax revenues and oppose any legislation that reduces or eliminates local revenue sources.

E. EMPLOYEE RELATIONS AND PENSION ADMINISTRATION: The City of Chino continues to employ best practices in personnel management and desires to see that State legislation will support our efforts. Therefore, the City will:
i. Support legislation that allows the City to engage more independently in employee relations and collective bargaining.
ii. Support legislation that fairly distributes financial obligations to fund pensions and other post-employment benefits between the City of Chino and its retirees. iii. Oppose legislation that undermines the relationship and understanding among the City of Chino, City of Chino employees, and the California Public Employee Retirement System (e.g., California Senate Bill 266, 2019-2020 Regular Session). iv. Oppose legislation that seeks to impose additional financial burdens on public agencies with its pension administration, employee relations, and/or collective bargaining practices.

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F. PUBLIC SAFETY: The City of Chino prides itself on providing excellent and robust public safety services. The City of Chino Police Department and the Chino Valley Independent Fire District are staples of the community, and the City will support legislation that promotes their respective efforts. Therefore, the City will:
i. Support legislation that holds criminals accountable for their actions and deters future criminal behavior.
ii. Oppose and repeal legislation that discourages police officers from efficiently enforcing laws by imposing undue burdens and unjust consequences for protecting their communities.
iii. Support legislation that narrows the scope of the categories of criminals that can qualify for early release.
iv. Support legislation that protects the rights of business owners, employees, and property owners to defend themselves, their businesses, employees, and customers from theft and robbery.
v. Support legislation that provides greater latitude for local agencies to use asset forfeiture funds in a manner most effective for their respective communities. vi. Support legislation that assists and provides funding for local law enforcement efforts, fire suppression/prevention, hazardous materials mitigation, and disaster preparedness.
vii. Support legislation that allows the City to better recoup the funds expended when responding to a Citywide disaster/emergency.
viii. Support legislation that funds programs aimed at protecting youth from tobacco, alcohol, and drug use. This includes after-school programs that offer positive activities for participants.
ix. Support legislation that strengthens law enforcement’s ability to enforce legal protections for all individuals who are victims of a crime. x. Support legislation that strengthens the presence of, or provides funding for, law enforcement personnel and public safety officers on school campuses to improve the safety of our schools. Support the expansion of funding and grants for cuttingedge public safety technologies and equipment that enhance the capabilities and efficiency of first responders.
xi. Support legislation and funding to assist local law enforcement, fire department, and emergency medical responses to address the opioid epidemic. xii. Support legislation that enhances the prosecution and sentencing of those who sell and furnish dangerous opioids such as fentanyl.
xiii. Support legislation and funding that helps address California law enforcement's recruitment and retention crisis, including resources that enhance first responder wellness and development.

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xiv. Support legislation and funding to combat and prevent organized retail crime, including stronger sentencing and bail requirements.
xv. Support legislation to narrow the scope of Proposition 57 to increase the transparency of early releases and protect the public from the early release of those convicted of serious felonies.
xvi. Support legislation strengthening the State’s resentencing laws under Proposition 47, thereby strengthening consequences against repeat offenders. xvii. Oppose legislation that prohibits or restricts the use of tools, resources, technologies, and practices currently authorized for use by public safety, including canines, license plate readers, and facial recognition technology.

G. COMMUNITY SERVICES, PARKS, AND RECREATION: The City of Chino provides a wide variety of high-quality recreational, educational, social, health, and other services that enrich the community and support resident populations of all ages and abilities. Therefore, the City will:
i. Support funding for recreational facilities and programs. ii. Support funding for public museums, theaters, and arts programs. iii. Support funding and legislation to preserve and promote historically significant community facilities.
iv. Support legislation that encourages, facilitates, and funds joint-use opportunities with educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and other stakeholder groups to enhance the City's mental health, community services, and recreational opportunities.
v. Support legislation that provides funding and expands and improves safety net and support systems so that local agencies and their community partners are better equipped to support those experiencing mental health crises, homelessness, food insecurity, addiction, etc.
vi. Support increased funding for programs that partner law enforcement officers with mental health and social work professionals when interacting with at-risk members of our community.
vii. Support funding programs that help local agencies continue to improve and modernize local parks and make them more accessible.
viii. Support legislation that provides access opportunities to physical activity, proper nutrition, and healthy lifestyle options through the promotion of active transportation, healthy foods, youth and senior programming. ix. Support legislation that provides access to before and after school care for youth.

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H. LOCAL AND REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE: The City of Chino is a growing community that serves as a major residential and commercial area in both the Inland Empire and the Greater Los Angeles region. Given the consistent use and economic implications of Chino’s local and regional infrastructure, the City will continuously seek opportunities that support infrastructure maintenance and construction. Therefore, the City will:
i. Support legislation that creates the framework for effective and beneficial collaboration with regional and neighboring agencies.
ii. Support legislation that provides funding and/or recognizes the importance of regional and local infrastructure within the San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Riverside, and Orange County areas.
iii. Support legislation that recognizes changing market trends and incorporates opportunities to facilitate these changing economic conditions. iv. Support legislation that promotes equitable fiscal liability and maintenance for regional infrastructure facilities.

I. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES: The City of Chino’s Administration Department serves as an intersection for all departments. The Administration Department facilitates the efforts of all departments while ensuring compliance with electoral and transparency laws.

Therefore, the City will:
i. Support legislation that promotes modern, effective, and financially prudent means to meet legal noticing requirements for public meetings. ii. Support legislation that simplifies Fair Political Practices Commission regulations and filing requirements.
iii. Support legislation that cuts any unnecessary costs for municipal elections. iv. Oppose any legislation that would require additional costs without adequate reimbursement.
v. Support legislation that would assist cities in identifying, mitigating, and coming to a resolution on clear and unequivocal abuses of the California Public Records Act.

IV. Legislative Policy Committee Membership:

When City Council committee assignments are established, the City Council committee assignment list shall include the Legislative Policy Committee. Two sitting City Council members shall serve on the Legislative Policy Committee. The term of the committee assignment will continue until the City Council committee assignment list is reviewed, modified, and approved by the City Council.

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City staff support of this committee shall be determined and assigned by the City Manager.

V. Functions and Tasks of the Legislative Policy Committee:
 The Legislative Policy Committee (“Committee”) shall meet as needed.  All Committee meetings shall be publicly agendized and held in publicly accessible facilities pursuant to the Ralph M. Brown Act.
 The Committee shall have a subpage to the Chino City Council webpage. The Committee subpage shall detail the Committee’s membership, purpose, and information on accessing agenda-related materials.
 The Committee will review proposed legislation that could potentially impact the City of Chino and recommend official positions to the City Council.  The Committee members will meet with State and Federal elected officials or members of their office on the legislation impacting the City.
 The Committee will formulate and/or approve official City responses or communications to proposed legislation impacting the City and forward those responses or communications to the City Council for approval.  All signed letters or other formal means of expression will be uploaded on the Committee’s subpage.
 The Committee will instruct and work with City staff and its consultants on matters relating to legislation.
 For those legislative items with potentially significant impact to the City or that create an issue of timeliness for an official response, the City Council authorizes Staff to formulate and approve official City responses with the qualification that the position is determined to be consistent with the City’s legislative policy.  The Committee or Staff will report to the City Council on any updates, recommendations, or actions taken by the Committee or Staff at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting following the most recent Committee meeting.

VI. Signature Authority:

All signed letters or any other formal expressions of support or opposition to proposed legislation, regulations, or policies as directed by the Committee or the City Council or formulated by Staff consistent with the City’s legislative policy as noted above, may be signed by the Mayor on behalf of the City of Chino. Given the legislative process’ fluidity and in the interest of time, should the Mayor be unable or present to sign on behalf of the City, then the City Council hereby designates the Committee members or the City Manager to sign on behalf of the City.

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VII. Policy Changes and Amendments:

This policy may be changed with City Council approval by way of an adopted City Council Resolution.

Legislative Policy CommitteeNovember 20, 2025

Legislative Policy Committee
November 20, 2025