2023-84
111 MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF CHINO HILLS
APRIL 25, 2023
UTILITY RATE STUDY WORKSHOP
SPECIAL/REGULAR MEETING
Mayor Rogers called the Utility Rate Study Special Meeting/Workshop to order at 4:30 p.m. and requested City Clerk Balz to call roll.
PRESENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: PETER ROGERS
CYNTHIA MORAN
ART BENNETT
BRIAN JOHSZ
RAY MARQUEZ
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ALSO PRESENT: BENJAMIN MONTGOMERY, CITY MANAGER
ELIZABETH CALCIANO, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
CHERYL BALZ, CITY CLERK
DANIEL BOBADILLA, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
CHRISTA BUHAGIAR, FINANCE DIRECTOR
DAVID CRABTREE, INTERIM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR
BRANDON FONACIER, COMMUNITY RELATIONS ANALYST
LYNNAE SISEMORE, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Led by City Clerk Balz.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.
UTILITY RATE STUDY WORKSHOP [00:00]
Habib Isaac, IB Consulting Principal/Managing Partner, provided a PowerPoint presentation and briefed the City Council on the Utility Rate Study, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office. He presented a Financial Planning Summary, outlining factors impacting the financial plan, key assumptions and long-term financial plan for the Water Enterprise and Wastewater Enterprise, the proposed Wastewater Financial Plan for the Fiscal Year 2024-2028 planning period, cost-of-service components and proposed wastewater monthly charges, proposed Inland Empire Utility Agency (IEUA) treatment increases, customer impacts, and the next steps for the Proposition 218 noticing period and public hearing.
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Discussion ensued with Mr. Issac and Council pertaining to pass through fees, Proposition 218 petition timeline, and IEUA possibly managing the water billing. Council Members indicated that they wanted more outreach to the public regarding IEUA pass through rates, potentially by inserting language on the Chino Hills water bill regarding pass through rates. The Council noted the Proposition 218 majority vote threshold, and details of Proposition 218 pass through fees.
Jeff Vaka, resident, stated that he was trying to understand the Proposition 218 process and inquired about the timing of past and current increases.
Finance Director Buhagiar replied that previously Finance had taken the IEUA rate increases to a Proposition 218 ballot process in 2020 for wastewater. She said now the proposed increase is for the sewer rate, and it presents an opportunity to combine it with the wastewater rates for the next five years so that City does not have to conduct two Proposition 218 hearings on an ongoing basis, they can occur concurrently.
Public Works Director Bobadilla stated that they will bring the Proposition 218 notice for approval to the second meeting in May.
Mayor Rogers adjourned the workshop at 5:09 p.m.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Rogers declared the meeting recessed at 6:00 p.m. for Closed Session. City Clerk Balz did not attend this portion of the meeting.
EXISTING LITIGATION
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) Existing Litigation - City of Chino Hills v. Flaviano E. Dimaranan, Adelaida A.
Dimaranan, Ligang Li, Chuan Wang, Sommai Patamakanthin, Ashfaq Kazi, Farhana Kazi, James Moon, Geonju Moon, Xiangyan Gao, Yiming Qiu - CIVSB 2215448
INITIATION OF LITIGATION
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) Initiation of Litigation (11 Cases)
INITIATION OF LITIGATION
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) Initiation of Litigation (1 Case)
CLOSED SESSION RECESS
Mayor Rogers recessed the Closed Session at 6:45 p.m.
CONVENE MEETING AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Rogers called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and requested City Clerk Balz to call roll.
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PRESENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: PETER ROGERS
CYNTHIA MORAN
ART BENNETT
BRIAN JOHSZ
RAY MARQUEZ
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ALSO PRESENT: BENJAMIN MONTGOMERY, CITY MANAGER
ELIZABETH CALCIANO, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
CHERYL BALZ, CITY CLERK
DANIEL BOBADILLA, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
CHRISTA BUHAGIAR, FINANCE DIRECTOR
DAVID CRABTREE, INTERIM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR
BRANDON FONACIER, COMMUNITY RELATIONS ANALYST
NICOLE FREEMAN, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
GARTH GOODELL, CHIEF OF POLICE, CHINO HILLS
ROD HILL, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER
JONATHAN MARSHALL, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
LYNNAE SISEMORE, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK
CARLOS SKIBAR, DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF, CHINO VALLEY FIRE
DISTRICT
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Led by Jeff Vaka, resident.
INVOCATION
Led by Father Joseph Pilotin, St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church.
PRESENTATIONS
CITY TILE - SYLVIA SALAS-RUFF [42:00]
Mayor Rogers presented a City Tile on behalf of the City and Certificates of Recognition on behalf of Congresswomen Kim and Torres, Senators Seyarto and Newman, Assemblyman Chen, and Supervisor Hagman, to Sylvia Salas-Ruff for her years of service in several departments from January 28, 1991, to March 31, 2023.
Ms. Salas-Ruff thanked the Council for the recognition and said it was her honor to work with the City Council, Community Services Director Marshall, her fellow colleagues, and the community. She said that she will take her wealth of knowledge from working with the City onto her next chapter.
Council Member Marquez stated that he knew Sylvia back in high school and wished her well on her retirement.
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PROCLAMATION - NATIONAL ARBOR DAY [48:16]
Mayor Rogers presented a proclamation proclaiming April 28, 2023, as National Arbor Day to Tony Fusco, Public Works Landscape Inspector II.
Mr. Fusco thanked the Council for the recognition and announced the Arbor Day tree planting and trail cleanup event being held on Saturday, April 29th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Eucalyptus Nature Park. He said that the goal is to plant roughly 280 trees and stated that those that help to plant the trees will be able to name their tree and tag it.
PROCLAMATION - NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER [51:26]
Mayor Rogers presented a proclamation proclaiming May 4, 2023, as National Day of Prayer to Father Joseph Pilotin with St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church.
Father Pilotin thanked the Council for the recognition and respected the City's testament on the value of prayer and the importance of coming together as a community.
PROCLAMATION - WATER AWARENESS MONTH [53:27]
Mayor Rogers presented a Proclamation proclaiming the month of May as Water Awareness Month to Danielle Trujillo, Water Use Efficiency Coordinator.
Ms. Trujillo thanked the Council for the recognition and stated that residents could call Public Works regarding water conservation concerns and spoke about Stage II Water Conservation efforts.
PROCLAMATION - PROFESSIONAL MUNICIPAL CLERK'S WEEK [56:48] Mayor Rogers presented a proclamation proclaiming April 30 to May 6, 2023, as Professional Municipal Clerk's Week to Lynnae Sisemore, Assistant City Clerk. Ms.
Sisemore thanked the Council for the recognition and spoke of the essential role and typical responsibilities of Municipal Clerks in local government.
Council Member Marquez inquired about Ms. Sisemore's recent accolade. She announced that she was awarded the Assistant City Clerk of the Year by the City Clerk's Association of California (CCAC). She said that City Clerk Balz nominated her for her efforts in passing a State Omnibus bill relating to reading of ordinances and helping the City secure federal earmark funding.
RECOGNITION - 22ND ANNUAL WATER CONSERVATION DESIGN-A-SIGN CONTEST AND TEACHER AWARD [01:01:51]
Mayor Rogers and Community Services Coordinator Vanessa Badosa announced the 22nd Annual Water Conservation Design-a-Sign Contest winners and Teacher award to Amber Hofmeyer, Hidden Trails Elementary School.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF ACTION TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION [01:15:14] There was no reportable action taken in Closed Session
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PUBLIC COMMENTS [01:15:24]
Ronnie Guyer, resident, spoke regarding the refurbished mural at the Prado Dam to honor those that have sacrificed for this country.
Julia Cabrera, Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce, Community Engagement Director, announced upcoming Upskill Chino Valley Programming events: Job Fairs at the Chino Hills Community Center on Wednesday, May 24th and the Ontario Convention Center on June 6th; roundtable to recognize Asian American business owners on Wednesday, April 12th; and Career Day at Wickman Elementary School. Lastly, she announced a new Chamber staff member, Judith Helper.
Suzette Dang, representing Supervisor Hagman's office, congratulated Sylvia Ruff on her retirement and the Water Conservation Design-A-Sign contest winners. She announced Supervisor Hagman's upcoming events: document shredding event on Saturday, June 3rd at the Chino City Hall parking lot between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or capacity; and Summer Open House on Wednesday, June 7th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at their District Office in Chino Hills, for more information call (909) 465-5266.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST ANNOUNCEMENTS [08:24:28]
There was no conflict of interest announcements to record.
CITY DEPARTMENT BUSINESS
CONSENT CALENDAR [01:24:36]
Mayor Rogers announced the Consent Calendar items and asked the Council if there were any items to pull. Hearing none, a motion was made by Council Member Bennett and seconded by Council Member Johsz approve the following Consent Calendar items:
MINUTES
The City Council approved the April 11, 2023, City Council Special/Regular Meeting Minutes, as presented.
PAYMENT REGISTERS
The City Council ratified payments over $25,000 totaling $6,659,752.19 for the month ended March 31, 2023, as presented.
INVESTMENT REPORT
The City Council received and filed the Investment Report for the month ended March 31, 2023, as presented.
PURCHASE ORDER - VALVE MAINTENANCE TRAILER AND VALVE TURNING
MACHINES - RESOLUTION ADOPTED
The City Council (1) adopted Resolution No. 2023R-020 of the City of Chino Hills, Adopting a Budget Amendment for Fiscal Year 2022-23 Increasing the Water Utility Fund by$52,655.95 for the Purchase of a Valve Maintenance Trailer and Two Valve
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Turning Machines; and (2) authorized issuance of purchase order in amount of $126,045.95 to E.H. Wachs for the purchase for the Public Works Water Distribution Division.
AGREEMENT AMENDMENT - CITYWIDE ALARM SYSTEM MONITORING,
TESTING, AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES
The City Council authorized Amendment No. 1 to Agreement No, A2022-143 with West Coast Fire and Integration, increasing the total not-to-exceed amount from $50,000 to $75,000 for increased costs due to various sensors and module replacements related to panel upgrades for the Citywide alarm system monitoring, testing, and maintenance services.
AGREEMENT AMENDMENT-ADDITIONAL DESIGN SERVICES FOR COMMUNITY
PARK ARTIFICIAL TURF REPLACEMENT AND IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT The City Council authorized Amendment No. 1 to Agreement No, A2022-107 with RJM Design Group, Inc., in the amount of$16,550, increasing the total not-to-exceed amount from $161,350 to $177,900 to include additional design services to the Phase II construction bid for the Community Park Artificial Turf Replacement and Improvements Project.
Motion carried by roll call vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
DISCUSSION CALENDAR
MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENTS - DAY AND TIME OF REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS - ORDINANCE INTRODUCTION [01:25:00]
City Manager Montgomery presented the report to consider changing the City Council meeting start times to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. for Closed Session and the regular meeting open session, respectively, to be more consistent with other neighboring elected bodies.
Council Member Bennett stated that starting the meetings an hour early is a courtesy to staff who participate in these meetings and said that he was in favor of starting the meetings at 6:00 p.m. and offered to make a motion.
Assistant City Attorney Calciano clarified that the motion needs to introduce the ordinance as stated on the agenda before a second could be made.
Council Members Johsz and Marquez both stated that they were not in favor of moving the meetings up an hour. They said that residents have a hard enough time to get off work to attend these meetings and moving it up an hour seems to be more difficult.
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Jim Gallagher, resident, spoke in favor of moving the start time to 6:00 p.m. and suggested offering live streaming services to help more people to participate in the meetings.
City Clerk Balz announced that the ordinance introduction also reflects the Closed Session time to begin as soon as 4:00 p.m. and the meeting at 6:00 p.m.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Council Member Bennett and seconded by Vice Mayor Moran to introduce an Ordinance Entitled: "An Ordinance of the City of Chino Hills Amending Title 2, Administration and Personnel, Chapter 2.04, City Council, Section 2.04.010 of the Chino Hills Municipal Code Relating to Day and Time of Regular Meetings of the City Council' for first reading by title only and waiving further reading.
Motion carried by roll call vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: JOHSZ, MARQUEZ
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
RESCHEDULE BUDGET WORKSHOP AND CITY COUNCIL MEETING [01:31:01] Mayor Rogers stated that the City of Chino Hills has a reputation for attending all the high school graduations. He said that both high schools have bifurcated the graduations this year with Ayala High School's graduation on Monday, May 22nd and Chino Hills High School on Tuesday, May 23rd. He recommended pushing the budget workshop and City Council meeting to Wednesday, May 24th so that Council could attend the graduations as years passed.
A motion was made by Council Member Johsz and seconded by Council Member Marquez to reschedule the May 23, 2023, Budget Workshop and Council Meeting to May 24, 2023, due to the City Council Members tradition of attending the local high school graduation ceremonies.
Motion carried by roll call vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT - MATERIAL WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION PROJECTS - ORDINANCE INTRODUCTION [01:32:53]
Assistant City Manager Hill briefed the City Council on the staff report, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office. He discussed the need for the City to comply with the
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California Integrated Waste Management Act(Assembly Bill 939) and for the Council to amend Chino Hills Municipal Code Chapter 13.40 to incorporate the current California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) requirements for waste diversion of Construction and Demolition (C&D) projects.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Council Member Johsz and seconded by Vice Mayor Moran to introduce an Ordinance Entitled: "An Ordinance of the City of Chino Hills, Amending Chapter 13.40 (Material Waste Management Plan for Construction and Demolition Projects) to Meet the 2022 Green Building Code Standards and Determining the Project is Exempt From Review Under the California Environmental Quality Act"for first reading by title only and waiving further reading.
Motion carried by roll call vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
LOS SERRANOS IMPROVEMENTS UPDATE [01:34:17]
Public Works Engineering Manager Hassel briefed the City Council on the staff report, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office. He discussed the improvements in the Los Serranos neighborhood and reported on the completed sidewalks, storm drains, street pavement and streetlights, water and park projects, and current sidewalk and pavement projects in the east and west areas of Los Serranos.
Discussion ensued regarding funding and/or grants received for Los Serranos improvements, refurbished streets, potholes, streetlight assessments, and water line replacements on Ramona. Council Member Marquez asked if the Greening Project was conditioned for sidewalks and curbs on the west side, and issues pertaining to the Los Serranos Park such as cracked concrete. Public Works Director Bobadilla answered affirmatively.
Following further discussion, there was Council consensus to receive and file the report.
ITEMS INITIATED BY COUNCIL
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION - STUDENT MEMBER [01:41:23] Mayor Rogers explained the selection process for appointment of a student member to the Parks and Recreation Commission and thanked all the students that applied. He announced his nomination to appoint Savannah Anderson as Student Member to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
A motion was made by Mayor Rogers and seconded by Council Member Johsz to
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appoint Savannah Anderson as the Student Member of the Parks and Recreation Commission, with a term expiring on April 30, 2024.
Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
PUBLIC HEARING
MASTER SCHEDULE OF FEES, FINES, AND PENALITIES - RESOLUTION ADOPTED [01:43:23]
Finance Director Buhagiar briefed the City Council on the staff report and provided a PowerPoint presentation, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office. She explained the purpose of the update to the Master Schedule of Fees, Fines and Penalties, and spoke about the proposed new fees and increases from various departments.
Discussion ensued with City staff and Council Members regarding Equestrian overlay fees and permits, non-profit use of facilities fees, and greenhouse gas and energy appliance efficiencies and subsidies.
City Manager Montgomery expanded on energy efficiencies and said that at the last workshop related to fees there was a lot of discussion for Council taking a deliberate action to subsidize activities where they wanted the cost to be below the full cost in order to incentivize action associated green activity, (example: green fees associated with green activity, such as new electric vehicle charging stations, window change outs, HVAC, and solar). He stated that Council currently subsidizes residential window change outs at $314 versus $418 for ten windows, which is a 25 percent reduction, however, staff is proposing a $21 increase in order to keep up with the associated costs with windows. He said that solar implementation would cost$697 in costs and that staff is proposing a $450 fee, which is a 36 percent reduction in fees, so there are existing subsidies for those types of fees. City Manager Montgomery also stated that if the Council did not want to implement those proposed increases, then staff would have to pull those fees out of this Master Schedule of Fees, Fines, and Penalties program to bring back for discussion, but they could adopt the rest at this meeting.
Council Member Marquez made a Motion to remove green fees associated with green activity from the proposed Master Schedule of Fees, Fines, and Penalties and to bring back to Council to review the associated costs for further discussion, and to adopt a resolution for the remainder of the Master Schedule of Fees, Fines, and Penalties effective July 1, 2023.
Mayor Rogers opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to address the City Council on the matter. Hearing none, Mayor Rogers closed the public hearing.
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Vice Mayor Moran raised a question regarding the motion on the floor and inquired if it only included the removal of solar panel fees.
City Manager Montgomery stated per the City Attorney's office if the Council chose to modify any of those green fees, staff would need clear direction on the dollar amount for the City to charge and said that the proposed changes this evening could be implemented going forward. Vice Mayor Moran asked City Manager Montgomery to restate the subsidies that the City already has implemented.
City Manager Montgomery restated the fees that the City already subsidizes, (window change out, photovoltaic permits for single family residence, HVAC change outs, and water heater fee).
Council Member Marquez requested that all subsidies remain how they were last year.
Assistant City Attorney Calciano asked for clarification from Council Member Marquez regarding his motion on the floor, asking him if all the fees that the City Manager named were what he would like to have remain the same as last year. Council Member Marquez answered affirmatively.
Following discussion, the motion was amended by Council Member Marquez and seconded by Vice Mayor Moran to remove the proposed green fees associated with green activity such residential change outs for windows, solar implementation, HVAC, and energy efficient appliances from the proposed Master Schedule of Fees, Fines, and Penalties and to keep the fees associated with those subsidies to last year's rates, and to adopt a resolution for the remainder of the Master Schedule of Fees, Fines, and Penalties effective July 1, 2023.
Motion failed by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: MORAN, MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, BENNETT, JOHSZ
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
A motion was made by Mayor Rogers and seconded by Council Member Johsz to (1) adopt Resolution No. 2023R-021, of the City of Chino Hills, Approving the Proposed New Fees, Fee Revisions and Increases, and Adopting the Master Schedule of Fees, Fines, and Penalties Effective July 1, 2023, and Determining That the Adoption of the
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Fees, Fines and Penalties is Exempt From Review Under the California Environmental Quality Act, as presented.
Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: MARQUEZ
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER REPORT [02:00:34]
Public Information Officer (PIO) Freeman announced the following information:
• COVID-19 VACCINE EVENTS AND BLOOD DRIVES
o Free County-run vaccine events and Blood Drives continue to be held on Tuesdays
o More information about the events can be found on the City's website • SOCAL GAS COMPANY ONE-TIME GRANT
o SoCal Gas is offering a one-time grant to eligible customers to help pay for increased bills that occurred over the winter
o The new gas assistance fund may provide eligible customers up to $400 or $500 for applicants 55 and over, or who have someone 55 and over in their household
o Residents can learn more and apply online at www.socalgas.com/GAF • RECREATION & CITY NEWS
o Teen Advisory Board and Volunteen Applications are still being accepted
o Two different opportunities for teens in Chino Hills to get involved
o Applications for both programs are available on the City's website and are being extended through Monday, May 1st
o Applications are available on the City's website, and are open to all teens who live in Chino Hills
o CITY EVENTS
o To learn more about the City's popular summer recreation programs on Saturday, May 13th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Community Center bring family along to participate in crafts, watch class demonstrations, and meet Community Services staff
SAFETY UPDATES - Fire and Police [02:02:03]
Fire: Deputy Fire Chief Skibar stated that the Fire Chief recently conducted a Captain's Promotional exam to establish an eligibility list for future promotional opportunities. He
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said that last Thursday the Fire District hosted their SOLAR cooperators, which stands for San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside Counties. He said that the Cooperators were at the training center and the Prado Hellitack Base where the participating agency showcased their firefighter capable helicopters, which were CalFire, Los Angeles County Fire, Orange County Fire Authority, and San Bernardino Sheriff Air Rescue. He stated that this training is in preparation for the upcoming wildland season. Deputy Fire Chief Skibar said two Fire Board Members and the Fire Chief participated in the legislative outreach in Washington D.C. and that they made great connections in the Nation's Capital. He stated that the Fire District continues to extend their appreciation to the City by supporting the Fire Station 68 project and said that it is currently working through the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. He said that Chino Valley Fire Foundation partnered with the Chino Hills Community Foundation to donate its 45th Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and 408th Trauma kit to The Shoppes Security Office and will also train the security staff on the emergency lifesaving efforts. Lastly, he said that the Fire Chief is part of the Chino Del Rotary Organization and would like to invite members of the community to participate in the annual Bingo De Mayo on May 1st at the Chino Fairgrounds. He said tickets are available at the Chino Senior Center and that all proceeds are to benefit the local Chino Valley Community Programs such as Caring for the Hills, Chino Neighborhood House, and the Chino Valley Y.M.C.A.
Council Member Johsz inquired about the status of the ambulance service request for proposal. Deputy Chief Skibar said that the Fire District should hear back from the County by May 4th.
Police: Police Chief Goodell stated that on April 21 st at about 6:45 a.m. a male suspect broke into a victim residence in the 4100 block of Val Vista and stole a silver flask and cell phone. He said that the victim confronted the suspect inside the residence and the suspect threatened to hit the victim with a large rock that he had in his possession and subsequently fled the scene. He stated that Deputies from the Rancho Cucamonga Station assisted with the use of Bloodhounds to track the suspect who was hiding in a backyard a short distance away and was still in possession of the victim's property. The suspect was arrested for home invasion robbery and booked at the West Valley Detention Center. He said that the whole investigation with using the Bloodhounds took 45 minutes to track him and that it was a great success to hear about. He stated on April 23rd, at approximately 4:00 a.m., Deputies attempted a traffic stop on a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) driver. He said that the Driver failed to yield and drove onto the California Institution for Men (CIM) property, and once on the prison grounds Deputies utilized a pursuit intervention technique to disable the vehicle. The driver was identified and was arrested and transported to the West Valley Detention Center for DUI and failure to yield.
Mayor Rogers asked that students in the audience announce their participation at the Council meeting.
A young gentleman from Ontario Christian High School, stated that they were in attendance for their Government class and had to write a report on the meeting. He said they traveled to Chino Hills being that most meetings in their area conflicted with their athletic programs, plus that they heard great things about Mayor Rogers.
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Mayor Rogers encouraged the students to remain to the end of the meeting for a photo opportunity.
COUNCIL REPORTS [02:07:48]
Mayor Rogers
• TRES HERMANOS CONSERVATION AUTHORITY BOARD
Mayor Rogers attended the Tres Hermanos Conservation Authority Board Meeting and said that it was a quick meeting to discuss and approve reducing the number of meetings for the Authority to bi-monthly meetings.
Council Member Bennett
• CHINO VALLEY INDEPENDENT FIRE DISTRICT BOARD
Council Member Bennett attended the Chino Valley Independent Fire District Board meeting and said that they conducted many ceremonial items, achievement awards and employment service awards.
• CALIFORNIA INSTITUTION FOR MEN AND WOMEN'S CITIZEN ADVISORY
COMMITTEES
Council Member Bennett stated that the California Institution for Men (CIM) and Women's (CIW) Citizen Advisory Committees meetings short for both.
He said the that Women's Institute currently houses 954 inmates within the prison. He said that they received a lot of information regarding the recent storms and that a lot of rehabilitation will occur for both prisons.
He said that the Men's Institution currently houses 2,249 inmates and that the 50-bed hospital is underway. Lastly, the prison has different vendors come to the prison to allow inmates in to purchase food items, and then those amounts go toward donations which they contributed $8,500 in donations due to the inmate food fundraiser.
Council Member Johsz
• LEGISLATIVE ADVOCAY COMMITTEE
Council Member Johsz attended the Legislative Advocacy Committee meeting and said that the committee met with the City's Federal and State Lobbyist and received status of the Federal Earmarks the City submitted this year. He said that Congress Members Kim and Torres were not able to put forth any of the City's requests for earmarks, such as Los Serranos Infrastructure and Purple Pipes for Recycled Water. He stated there is still hope with Senator Padilla to select and put forth a request from the City. He said that the Committee took many positions on pending legislation, for instance, they opposed the prohibition of law enforcement agencies being able to use canines on their duty. He said that we do not give law enforcement the tools that they need to do their job and that dogs are very effective in apprehension. He encouraged the public to monitor what legislation gets passed and what the Governor signs into law.
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• WEST VALLEY MOSQUITO AND VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT BOARD Council Member Johsz attended the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District Board meeting and said that he learned something new about mosquitoes. He said that you could irradiate male mosquitoes to make them sterile, so if you strike them with X-Rays, they become infertile. He stated that the Board supports releasing sterile male mosquitoes because mosquitos only mate once and that West Valley will be first in Southern California to do so.
Council Bennett recognized Chino Valley Fire District Board Member Tom Haughey in the audience.
Council Member Marquez
• CAL CITIES
Council Member Marquez stated that he was in Sacramento last week and attended a Board meeting and received updates on Cal Cities priorities. He said number one discussion was on homelessness and how they are trying to get three billion dollars passed annually at the State level to help with homelessness and affordable housing. He stated that they continued discussion on local control, public safety, and the safeguard of local revenues. He said that they received updates at the State and Federal level and that they are anticipating a shortfall at the State level from anywhere between $20 to $40 billion dollars, and that the May revise will not give a true sense of where the State stands because of the extension on taxes which do not have to be done until October. Lastly, he said the next Inland Empire Division meeting will be held on June 15th at the Cal Aero Chino Airport.
o INLAND EMPIRE DIVISION MEETING
Council Member Marquez attended the Cal Cities Inland Empire Division meeting on April 20th at the new Yamaava' Resort and Casino and said 15 cities represent the Inland Empire Division and 12 of the 15 cities attended this meeting, the most ever. He said that Lynn Valbuena Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians greeted the members and spoke about her mission and all the funds that they contribute to surrounding areas, close to $350 million dollars. He said the members received a recap on legislation and the California Business Roundtable act, which will be on the 2024 ballot. He said this mission will restrict local tax and authority which is a concern that impacts the city. He stated that there was a lot of discussion about Proposition 47 and fentanyl bills. Lastly, he said Cal Cities President Ali Sajjad Taj was a guest speaker and Legislative Advocacy Director Melanie Perron provided legislative updates.
COUNCIL COMMENTS [02:28:38]
Marquez: Council Member Marquez attended the Cal Cities Leadership Summit in Sacramento. He said that he met with Transportation and Housing Leadership and attended many meetings and that many elected officials asked the legislators to pay one billion owed to cities for unfunded mandates. He inquired about vandalism at
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Vellano Park. Community Services Director Marshall said that he had not heard of any vandalism at Vellano Park but when you get people at the Park it deters those that want to do bad stuff, however, there has been a lot of vandalism at Torrey Pines Park.
Council Member Marquez wanted to state how vandalism has gone down once pickle ball courts came into fruition and asked about the lighting project. Community Services Director Marshall said that the pickle ball lighting will be completed in the next couple of months, because the recent weather caused many delays. Council Member Marquez inquired about the status of Carbon Canyon Road truck restrictions and street improvements. Public Works Director Bobadilla replied that the City is still waiting for the City of Brea to wrap up their items and that the extension merge lane on Carbon Canyon needs to go through the bidding process to begin construction hopefully in the next couple of months. Council Member Marquez inquired about the dead palm trees in the creek bed and asked why they were still there. Public Works Bobadilla replied that they have not been removed because we are in the middle of bird nesting season and that prohibits their removal. Council Member Marquez stated that hopefully the City will receive a grant to help remove other dead trees. Lastly, he mentioned at the Cal Cities Planning Commission Academy a few weeks ago and stated that a lot of cities throughout California conduct a joint annual meeting between Council and all the Commissioners and thought it would be a good idea to discuss having one meeting once a year with all commissioners at a future meeting.
Moran: Vice Mayor Moran congratulated Ayala and Chino Hills High Schools for being ranked number one and two at the Winter Guard International in Dayton, Ohio once again for Color Guard and Percussion. She thanked the Chino Hills Rotary group for inviting Council and the public to their multicultural festival. Lastly, she asked staff to inform the teens in the audience and community about upcoming summer employment opportunities for programs that the City is trying to fill. Community Services Director Marshall said that community services hire quite a few people for summer jobs such as day camps and to visit the City's website for more information. He said getting a summer job for a first-time employment is a great way to give back to the community.
Bennett: Council Member Bennett reminded everyone about the National Day of Prayer that will occur on May 4th to pray for this great nation, State and City. He said to have a safe and sane Cinco de Mayo. Lastly, he gave a special thanks to all government students for their cheering session this evening.
Johsz: Council Member Johsz thanked everyone who attended the community cleanup in the overflow parking lot at The Shoppes this past weekend. He said that residents can also contact their trash hauler for bulky item pickups. He stated that the Sheriff promoted Concealed Carried Weapons (CCW) classes on social media and if anyone is concerned about public safety they should attend the classes to obtain a proper CCW permit. Lastly, he said that three of the B17 WWII planes will be at the Chino Airport and to see his father Steve Johsz will happily give anyone a special tour of the Planes of Fame.
Rogers: Mayor Rogers announced that the Rancho Del Chino Rotary will be hosting their annual Bingo De Mayo fundraiser this coming Monday on May 1st, doors open at 5:00 p.m., tickets are $30, and the games start at 7:00 p.m. He said that he attended
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the bulky items pick up event and that over 575 cars went through the drive thru and he thanked the Waste Management Team for the event. He congratulated Assistant City Clerk Sisemore for obtaining the Assistant City Clerk of the Year award. Lastly, he announced the upcoming jazz concert where the lead vocalist from the band Santana, Andy Vargas, is scheduled for June 16th.
ADJOURN IN MEMORIAM AND IN HOPE [02:31:09]
Mayor Rogers adjourned the meeting at 8:53 p.m. in tribute and honor of those who serve and have served in the Armed Forces at home and abroad. Their sacrifice and strength protect the goals and ideals that have made this Country great.
Respectfully submitted,
CHERYL BALZ, CITY CLERK
APPROVED: May 9, 2023