2023-173
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF CHINO HILLS
AUGUST 8, 2023
REGULAR MEETING
Mayor Rogers called the Closed Session meeting to order 4:00 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
MARK D. HENSLEY, CITY ATTORNEY
ELIZABETH CALCIANO, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
CHERYL BALZ, CITY CLERK
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Rogers declared the meeting recessed at 4:00 p.m. for Closed Session. City Clerk Balz did not attend this portion of the meeting.
PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT
Public Employment Performance Evaluation pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 - City Manager
LIABILITY CLAIMS
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) Existing Litigation:
a. Ashley Bautista, an incompetent, by and through her Guardian ad Litem, John Bautista v. City of Chino Hills, a public entity, and Does 1 to 50, inclusive, San Bernardino County Court Case No. CIVDS 2103831
b. Joshua Poli, an individual v. City of Chino Hills, a public entity, and Does 1 to 30, inclusive, San Bernardino County Superior Court Case No. CIVSB 2215339
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c. Niral Patel, Alec Justice v. Andrew Paul Brown; City of Chino Hills; County of San Bernardino; San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department; and Does 1 to 90, inclusive, Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 22STCV40050 d. Eman Tanagho, as the Surviving Biological Mother of Decedent, Jamil Tanagho v.
Reynolds Sports Management, Big League Dreams Chino Hills, LLC, City of Chino Hills, and Does 1-20, inclusive, Riverside County Superior Court Case No. CVR12302786
e. Jie Zou, as Administrator of the Estate of Mingxiang Zou v. City of Chino Hills, San Bernardino County Superior Court Case No. CIVSB 2316320
EXISTING LITIGATION
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) Existing Litigation - Mike Tabor v. City of Chino Hills, City Manager Ben Montgomery - Case No. CVISB 2318146
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 - Case No. CIVSB 2215448 Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) Existing Litigation - City of Chino Hills v. Jichun Jiang, Ann Qian Wang, Jose Iniguez, Maria lniquez, James Wen-Chungtien Tien, Man-Po Wang, Chen-Fu Lei, Hsiu-Chin Rev Fam Tr 6/17, and Does 1 through 30, inclusive - Case No. CIVSB 2301707 Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) Existing Litigation - City of Chino Hills v. Wai Min Liu, Yi Liu, W Liu & Y Liu Family Rev Liv Tr 11/12/20, Lonnie Weber, Robert Weber, Santos Lemus, and Does 1 through 30, inclusive - Case No. CIVSB 2302673
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) Existing Litigation - City of Chino Hills v. Weiming Mo, Zhao Jun, and Does 1 through 30, inclusive - Case No. CIVSB 2312001
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) Existing Litigation - City of Chino Hills v. Warren Tsang, Michelle Tsang, Tsang Family Trust 10/22/14, and Does 1 through 30, inclusive - Case No. CIVSB 2305319
POTENTIAL INITIATION OF LITIGATION
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) Potential Initiation of Litigation (5 cases)
CLOSED SESSION RECESS
Mayor Rogers recessed the Closed Session at 5:50 p.m.
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CONVENE MEETING AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Rogers called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 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
MARK D. HENSLEY, CITY ATTORNEY
CHERYL BALZ, CITY CLERK
DANIEL BOBADILLA, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
CHRISTA BUHAGIAR, FINANCE DIRECTOR
JESSICA CONTRERAS, DEPUTY CITY CLERK II
BRANDON FONACIER, COMMUNITY RELATIONS ANALYST
NICOLE FREEMAN, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
ALLEN GIRARD, CHIEF OF POLICE, CHINO HILLS
ROD HILL, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER
NICHOLAS LIGUORI, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR
JONATHAN MARSHALL, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
LYNNAE SISEMORE, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK
DAVE WILLIAMS, FIRE CHIEF, CHINO VALLEY INDEPENDENT
FIRE DISTRICT
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG [01:32]
Led by Mayor Rogers.
INVOCATION [01:48]
Led by Pastor Ken Elben, Chino Valley Community Church.
PRESENTATIONS
RECOGNITION - POLICE CHIEF GARTH GOODELL [02:32]
Mayor Rogers presented certificates of commendation on behalf of the City, Congresswoman Kim, Senators Newman and Seyarto, Assembly Member Chen, and County Supervisor Hagman to former Police Chief Garth Goodell for his dedicated service to the Chino Hills community, as he was promoted to Deputy Chief of the San Bernardino Sheriffs Department Personnel/Emergency Services Bureau.
Council Member Marquez thanked Chief Goodell for being a dedicated and hard worker and wished him well in his future endeavors.
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Vice Mayor Moran and Council Member Bennett thanked Chief Goodell for his years of service and wished him well on his new promotion.
Council Member Johsz spoke of Chief Goodell's engagement with the community and wished him luck in his future endeavors.
Chief Goodell thanked the Council for the recognition and said the hard work and appreciation goes to his professional and sworn staff. He said that he has spent the last nine years with the City and had a great working relationship with Council, staff, and the community. Chief Goodell said that the City is in great hands with the newly appointed Police Chief, Al Girard.
RECOGNITION - CHINO HILLS GIRLS SOFTBALL 8U RED TEAM [12:10] Mayor Rogers presented certificates of recognition on behalf of the City, Congresswoman Kim, Senators Newman and Seyarto, Assembly Member Chen, and County Supervisor Hagman to the Chino Hills Girls Softball 8U Red Team for winning first place and being the District Tournament Champions. Coach Steven Falls thanked the City Council for the recognition and spoke about the team's outstanding record, levels of achievement, and how they played against tough teams in their age group.
Lastly, he said that all the parents were proud of them and that the team had an outstanding season.
INTRODUCTION - NEW EMPLOYEES [21:06]
Mayor Rogers introduced Erica Carrico, Utility Billing Technician in the Finance Department and welcomed her to the Chino Hills team. Ms. Carrico thanked the Council for the introduction and said she's delighted to be a part of the Chino Hills team and to see what the future holds.
Mayor Rogers introduced the new Police Chief, Allen Girard and welcomed him to the Chino Hills team. Police Chief Girard said that it is an honor to continue to serve the City of Chino Hills in his new capacity as Police Chief and he is committed to providing excellent customer service in his new role. Following the introduction, Police Chief Girard introduced the new Lieutenant Mario Juarez and said that he has worked with him for more than 29 years and is elated that he was appointed as his second in command. Lieutenant Juarez said he looks forward to working with the Chino Hills community.
PRESENTATION - WILDFIRE MITIGATION EFFORTS [28:31]
Melissa Boyd, Southern California Edison Government Relations Manager and Louis Morena, Outage Team Director, gave a PowerPoint presentation which is on file in the City Clerk's Office, regarding wildfire mitigation and SCE's efforts to protect the grid.
Ms. Boyd spoke about high fire risk inspections, vegetation management, weather stations, Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), maintenance outage processes, common repair outages, the robust digital notification system, how to sign up for notifications at SCE, partnerships with local fire agencies and 211 customer support, PSPS customer programs and resources, rebates for battery operated generators,
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critical backup battery program, and provided helpful information and resources, such as calling (800) 655-4555 for billing, or(800) 611-1911 for power outage related issues.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF ACTION TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION [43:09]
There was no reportable action taken in Closed Session
PUBLIC COMMENTS [43:22]
Suzette Dang, representing Supervisor Hagman's office, congratulated the girls' softball 8u Team on their championship, and thanked both Chief Goodell and Police Chief Girard for their dedication to the community. Ms. Dang announced upcoming events:
the 4th District Land Use Services Open House event at the James Thalman Branch Library on August 9th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and a shredding drive-thru event on Saturday, September 30th at the Upland Community Park located at 1150 East Foothill Boulevard in Upland, open to all San Bernardino County residents. Lastly, Ms. Dang thanked the organizers of National Night Out for promoting safety and becoming acquainted with neighbors in the community.
Joann Genis, resident, thanked Chief Goodell for his service to the community and for keeping an open line of communication regarding her personal matters. She also thanked Mayor Marquez for connecting her with Chief Goodell and for inviting her to several events to speak about fentanyl abuse.
Lee Guenveur, resident, thanked Council for their open lines of communication with their citizens and said a lot of organizations could benefit from how business is conducted in this City.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST ANNOUNCEMENTS [52:04]
There was no conflict of interest announcements to record.
CITY DEPARTMENT BUSINESS
CONSENT CALENDAR [52:16]
Mayor Rogers announced the Consent Calendar items and asked the Council if there were any items to pull.
Council Member Marquez pulled Item Nos. 25 and 27, pertaining to the purchase of remote-operated slope mower and the Community Park Scoreboards Replacement Project; and Vice Mayor Moran pulled Item No. 26, pertaining to the McCoy Equestrian Center Barn Exterior Rehabilitation Project for discussion and separate votes.
A motion was made by Council Member Johsz and seconded by Council Member Marquez to approve the following Consent Calendar items:
MINUTES
The City Council approved the July 11, 2023, City Council Regular Meeting Minutes, as presented.
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PAYMENT REGISTERS
The City Council ratified payments over $25,000 totaling $4,135,939,56 for the month ended June 30, 2023, as presented.
INVESTMENT REPORT
The City Council received and filed the Investment Report for the month ended June 30, 2023, as presented.
MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENTS - COMMISSION MEETINGS START TIMES -
ORDINANCE ADOPTED
The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 399 of the City of Chino Hills Amending Title 2, Administration and Personnel, Chapter 2.28 - Boards and Commissions Generally, Section 2.28.090; Chapter 2.32 - Parks and Recreation Commission, Section 2.32.060; Chapter 2.36 - Planning Commission, Section 2.36.020; and Chapter 2.40-Public Works Commission, Section 2.40.060 of the Chino Hills Municipal Code Relating to Time and Place of Meetings of Each Commission revising the regular meeting start times of the Parks and Recreation, Planning, and Public Works Commissions to 6:00 p.m. - Second Reading (Introduced July 11, 2023).
WASTEWATER RATES AND CHARGES - ORDINANCE ADOPTED
The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 400 of the City of Chino Hills, Setting the Amount of Wastewater Rates and Charges Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 5471 Et. Seq. and Determining That the Subject Activity is Exempt From Review Under the California Environmental Quality Act - Second Reading (Introduced July 11, 2023).
AGREEMENT AMENDMENT - PART-TIME CONTRACT BUILDING INSPECTOR The City Council authorized execution of Amendment No. 1 to Agreement No.
A2023-077 with The Code Group, Inc., dba VCA Code, increasing the total not-to- exceed contract amount from $50,000 to $95,000 to provide for a part-time contract building inspector through end of 2023.
ON-CALL CONSULTANTS LIST
The City Council approved the establishment of a list of 21 pre-qualified Building, Geological, Commercial Brokerage, and Engineering-Land Development services consultants as outlined in the written staff report, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office, to be valid for up to five years and superseding the previous on-call consultant list.
AGREEMENT - COMMUNITY PARK EXPANSION OF PARKING LOT AND
PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
The City Council (1) awarded Agreement No. A2023-165 to Ludwig Engineering Associates, Inc., in the amount of$118,870 for the Community Park Expansion of Parking Lot and Pavement Improvements Project located at 3280 Eucalyptus Avenue; and (2)determined the project to be exempt from review under California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended, Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq. ("CEQA") pursuant to Section 15301 of CEQA Guidelines.
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PURCHASE ORDER - CARPET AND FLOORING AT CITY HALL AND POLICE
DEPARTMENT BUILDING
The City Council (1) found that the exception to competitive bidding procedures under Chino Hills Municipal Code (CHMC) Section 3.16.110.G applies because Mohawk Carpet Distribution Inc. has an existing contract through Sourcewell, Contract#080819- MCD, and the procurement process utilized by the entity is substantially similar to the provisions of CHMC Chapter 3.16- Purchasing System; and (2)authorized the issuance of a purchase order to Mohawk Carpet Distribution Inc. utilizing cooperative purchase Contract #080819-MCD in the amount of $78,151.81 for the purchase of carpet and flooring for the stairways at City Hall and the Police Department building.
AGREEMENT - SHADY VIEW RESIDENTIAL PROJECT
The City Council awarded Agreement No. A2023-166 to RMA Group in the amount of $89,200 for Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) engineering services for the Shady View Residential project located at the southern terminus of Shady View Drive.
MEASURE I FIVE YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLANS - RESOLUTIONS
ADOPTED
The City Council adopted (1) Resolution No. 2023R-057 of the City of Chino Hills, Adopting the Revised Measure I Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 2022-23 Through Fiscal Year 2026-27; and (2) Resolution No. 2023R-058 of the City of Chino Hills, Adopting the Measure I Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 2023-24 Through Fiscal Year 2027-28.
Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQU EZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS PULLED FOR DISCUSSION
PURCHASE ORDER - REMOTE-OPERATED SLOPE MOWER [53:02]
Council Member Marquez pulled this item for separate discussion and vote. He thanked City Manager Montgomery and Public Works Director Bobadilla for purchasing this mower for the maintenance of open space in the City.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Council Member Marquez and seconded by Council Member Johsz to authorize the City Council to (1) find that the exception to competitive bidding procedures under Chino Hills Municipal Code (CHMC) Section 3.16.110.G applies because Embankscape Equipment, LLC, dba RC Mowers ("RC Mowers") has an existing contract through H-GAC, Contract #GR01-20, and the procurement process utilized by the entity is substantially similar to the provisions of CHMC Chapter 3.16 - Purchasing System; and (2) authorize issuance of a purchase order to Embankscape Equipment, LLC dba RC Mowers utilizing cooperative purchase
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Contract#GR01-20 in the amount of$72,241.46 for the purchase of a remote-operated slope mower for weed abatement.
Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
MCCOY EQUESTRIAN CENTER BARN EXTERIOR REHABILITATION PROJECT - RESOLUTION ADOPTED [54:08]
Vice Mayor Moran pulled this item for separate discussion and vote. She asked if part of the improvements for this item were going to be interior paint and a bathroom remodel. Capitol Project and Facilities Superintendent Manuel replied that this contract was specific to exterior paint only and the interior improvements would be a separate phase since those contracts are smaller and outside of Council action.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Vice Mayor Moran and seconded by Council Member Marquez to (1) adopt Resolution No. 2023-059 of the City of Chino Hills, Approving the Specifications/Scope of Work for the McCoy Equestrian Center Barn Exterior Rehabilitation Project Pursuant to Government Code Section § 830.6; (2) authorize staff to solicit bids for the McCoy Equestrian Center Barn Exterior Rehabilitation Project; and (3) determine the project to be exempt from review under California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended, Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq. ("CEQA"), pursuant to Section 15302 of CEQA Guidelines.
Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
COMMUNITY PARK SCOREBOARDS REPLACEMENT PROJECT - RESOLUTION ADOPTED [55:29]
Council Member Marquez pulled this item for separate discussion and vote. Council Member Marquez asked if a scoreboard was still necessary due to technology advancements with apps on phones that assist in keeping score. City Manager Montgomery stated that the scoreboards are part of the improvement project at Community Park and through the larger scale project, bids are being requested to quantify the cost of replacement or to see if there are any other technological advancements that would make more sense.
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Mayor Rogers asked if the scoreboards are still being utilized as originally planned.
Community Services Director Marshall stated that things have evolved over time as it relates to scorekeeping and the app Game Changer has allowed people to watch games from anywhere. He said the bid for scoreboards is part of the initial phase of the Community Park Rehabilitation Project and bid results will be brought back to Council for additional discussion.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Council Member Marquez and seconded by Council Member Johsz, to (1) adopt Resolution No. 2023-060 of the City of Chino Hills, Approving the Design and Specifications for the Community Park Scoreboards Replacement Project Pursuant to Government Code Section § 830.6; (2) authorize staff to solicit bids for the replacement of all specified components for the Community Park Scoreboard Replacement project; and (3) determine the project to be exempt from review under California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended, Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq. ("CEQA"), as a Class 2(c) Categorical Exemption (replacement or reconstruction of existing utility systems and/or facilities involving negligible or no expansion of capacity), pursuant to Section 15302 of CEQA Guidelines.
Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
PUBLIC HEARINGS
SEWER CHARGES ON COUNTY TAX ROLL FISCAL YEAR 2023-24- RESOLUTION ADOPTED [01:01:06]
Finance Director Christa Buhagiar briefed the City Council on the staff report and provided a PowerPoint presentation, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office outlining the number of sewer-only accounts within City limits and the challenges with collecting past due payments due to there being no mechanism to enforce payment. She stated that Council took action on May 24, 2023, to approve the placement of the City's sewer charges for residential sewer-only parcels on the San Bernardino County Tax Roll and ordered the filing of a report specifying the charge for each parcel and setting the public hearing for this date.
Mayor Rogers opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to address the City Council on the matter.
An unnamed resident, voiced his concerns about the increase to property taxes with the implementation of sewer charges added to the county tax roll.
Mayor Rogers closed the public hearing.
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City Attorney Hensley clarified that this is not an increase to the property tax bill, but rather a collection vehicle for the City to collect sewer charges for those residents who only pay for sewer fees and who are delinquent on their accounts.
Council Member Marquez asked if this would only be for delinquent accounts and others would still receive a bill. Finance Director Buhagiar stated that instead of the City sending a monthly utility bill, the amount will be an assessment on their property tax bill, as the City does not have any enforcement tools when sewer-only payments are delinquent. Council Member Marquez asked what the average annual sewer cost equates to. Finance Director Buhagiar stated that it would be $384.27 for the fiscal year. Council Member Marquez asked why the City cannot bill the residents monthly.
Finance Director Buhagiar stated that typically, the delinquent accounts are tenants rather than owners and that there is no mechanism to collect payments from those that only pay sewer charges if they choose not to pay. The addition of the sewer charges to the property tax bill ensures payment for the charges incurred.
Council Member Bennett stated that adding the payment to the property tax bill is a good way of ensuring the bill is paid and prevents the City from having to chase down delinquencies. He asked if there was an administrative charge. Finance Director Buhagiar stated that the administrative charge is thirty cents per account, per year.
Council Member Johsz concurred with Council Member Bennett's comments and thanked staff for bringing this item forward.
City Manager Montgomery clarified that this service is normally billed monthly and that it is simply a shift on how the city will collect payments for sewer-only service. He restated that fees are not increasing, and that sewer or trash services cannot be shut off/stopped to entice residents to pay their bill.
Council Member Marquez asked instead of the sewer charge being broken down to approximately $32 a month, it is now $400 collectively. Council Member Bennett clarified that this amount can be broken up into two installments, same as your property tax bill.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Council Member Johsz and seconded by Council Member Bennett to adopt Resolution No. 2023R-061 of the City of Chino Hills, Adopting a Written Report Regarding Sewer Charges for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and Directing That Such Charges be Collected on the County Tax Roll for Fiscal Year 2023-24.
Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: MARQUEZ
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
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ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY - TREE TRIMMING RESI-PAY PROGRAM - RESOLUTION ADOPTED [1:14:23]
Management Analyst I Dalpont briefed the City Council on the staff report and provided a PowerPoint presentation, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office. She provided the background, purpose, and policy with regards to the Tree Trimming Resi-Pay Program which was created to provide an option allowing for discretionary tree trimming at residents' expense subject to conditions.
Council Member Marquez asked if trimming or topping city-owned trees is illegal.
Management Analyst Dalpont answered affirmatively.
Mayor Rogers opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to address the City Council on the matter.
Dave McCormick, resident, spoke about the lack of tree trimming behind his home, how he feels the program is cost prohibitive and hopes that something could be done to include maintenance behind residential homes without going through a restrictive and expensive process.
Mayor Rogers closed the public hearing.
Council Member Marquez asked City Manager Montgomery to explain the fee structure of the program and if it would be a pass-through fee. City Manager Montgomery said that the fee structure is designed to cover the cost of the City's contractor doing the work. He stated that this will not preclude the City from performing its scheduled tree trimming maintenance, but this program will simply allow residents to request discretionary tree trimming intermittently.
Council Member Marquez asked if fallen tree branches and dead brush will continue to be maintained by the City. Public Works Director Bobadilla stated that it is part of the City's normal practice to have the Contractor address those issues.
Vice Mayor Moran stated that most of the requests she receives from residents pertains to overgrown trees or dead brush. She said that Public Works staff are great at responding and assessing tree and brush in the City. She stated that for residents who want to have trees trimmed earlier than scheduled, this program is a great mechanism.
Mayor Rogers and Council Member Bennett agreed that this program could be beneficial to residents. Council Member Bennett asked if staff could clear the debris around Mr. McCormick's home as part of our normal maintenance process.
Following discussion, a motion was made by Council Member Johsz and seconded by Council Member Bennett to (1) approve the addition of new Section 2.3 - Tree Trimming Resi-Pay Program Policy to the Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual and determine that the adoption of the Tree Trimming Resi-Pay Program Policy is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act; and (2) adopt Resolution No. 2023R-062 of the City of Chino Hills, Amending Resolution No. 2023R-021 to Add a New Table 10 for Tree Trimming Service Fees and Resi-PayAdmin Fee to the Master
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Schedule of Fees, Fines and Penalties and Determined That the Adoption of These Fees is Exempt From Review Under the California Environmental Quality Act. 111 Motion carried by electronic vote as follows:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROGERS, MORAN, BENNETT, JOHSZ,
MARQUEZ
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER REPORT [01:26:15]
Public Information Officer (PIO) Freeman announced the following information:
• RECREATION & CITY NEWS
o Fall Recreation Guide & City News brochure is now available online at www.chinohills.orq/RecBrochure and began arriving in mailboxes last week
o Includes information on City news, fall class registration, and special events like Paws at the Park on Saturday, September 9th, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Vila Borba Dog Park
o Dogs of all paw sizes will have the opportunity to take part in little dog races, a best trick contest, and a dog fashion show
o There will also be vendor booths, giveaways, door prizes and kid's craft activities
o Vendor applications are open now and more information can be found online at www.chinohills.orq/Events
• CHAMBER LEADERSHIP COLLABORATION DONATION
o City Manager Ben Montgomery represented the City of Chino Hills as part of the Chino Valley Chamber's Leadership Collaborative over the last eight months where they toured and met with different businesses throughout the Chino Valley
o As one of their goals and group initiatives, they recently partnered with the Chino Valley Independent Fire District (CVIFD) and Chino Valley Fire Foundation to raise funds to purchase an AED and trauma kit that was donated and installed inside Buffalo Wild Wings
o CVIFD also trained Buffalo Wild Wings staff members, leadership collaborative members, and members of the public on how to use the live-saving devices as well as increasing the number of AEDs in Chino Hills and the number of people who know how to use them City Manager Montgomery stated that Police Chief Girard is also part of the Chamber Leadership Collaborative and has been instrumental in this project.
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SAFETY UPDATES - Fire and Police [01:28:11]
Fire: Fire Chief Williams congratulated Chief Goodell on his promotion and thanked him for the phenomenal working relationship. He also thanked the community for the welcome and support during National Night Out and the outpouring of community engagement.
Police: Police Chief Girard stated that on July 27th Detectives and Deputies performed a follow-up investigation for a felony fraud case and conducted a traffic stop that detained a male subject, which authored a search warrant in Ontario. Detectives recovered a large amount of United States Currency and falsified foreign government documents, and fraudulent identification cards. Seven individuals who were part of a Romanian theft organization were arrested and booked at West Valley Detention Center. On July 11th, a suspect was identified impersonating a Police Officer by wearing a uniform and using a vehicle with emergency lights and fire decals. On July 20th, the suspect was arrested, and the arresting officers recovered firearms, soft body armor, duty belt, a fire investigator identification card and badges, as well as decals and uniforms. The suspect was booked at the West Valley Detention Center. Police Chief Girard commended everyone that participated in National Night Out. He stated that he, along with several station personnel, and Citizens on Patrol members visited 16 locations. Police Chief Girard stated that on July 14th, the Chino Hills Police Station participated in the "Know Your Limit Program" which raises awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving and is an interactive way to demonstrate how much, or how little, alcohol it can take to reach the legal limit. He stated that Deputies visited local eateries in the City and the goal was for people to understand how the consumption of alcohol could affect their ability to get home safely, as well as the costs associated with Driving Under the Influence. He stated they roughly had about 30 participants and that the program ended up being a success. Police Chief Girard reminded residents that school is back in session and informed the public about back to school safety tips. He asked parents to teach children to look both ways before crossing the street and to be patient with one another. Lastly, he introduced and shared the new Public Service Announcement video regarding tips to avoid residential burglaries.
Mayor Rogers commended Police Chief Girard for a great presentation and congratulated the Deputies on the successes they have had over the last month.
Council Member Johsz asked Police Chief Girard what the two locations were that Deputies visited for the "Know Your Limit" event. Police Chief Girard stated that the Deputies went to Septembers and The Pub for educational purposes, only for enforcement.
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COUNCIL REPORTS [01:37:40]
Mayor Rogers
• CHINO BASIN DESALTER AUTHORITY BOARD
Mayor Rogers attended the Chino Basin Desalter Authority Board meeting and said that the Board approved a number of contracts to fund product purchases for repairs of the facility.
• TRES HERMANOS CONSERVATION AUTHORITY BOARD
Mayor Rogers attended the Tres Hermanos Conservation Authority Board meeting and said that the Board approved a bi-monthly meeting schedule and fine-tuned the first tours for the property, which is scheduled for September 23rd.
Mayor Rogers said that they will conduct four tours, scheduled for one hour per tour. He stated there will be a sign-up process through the Tres Hermanos website which will be on a first come first served basis. He stated there will be docents on the tour, providing history and context to the tour.
Mayor Rogers asked Council Member Marquez if he had any comments to add.
Council Member Marquez stated that the conservancy has come a long way with great leadership and has been successful in keeping the 1,750 acres in Chino Hills open.
Mayor Rogers added that the 2,500 acres corridor is beautiful year-round and they are excited for residents to be able to visit the property. • WATER FACILITIES AUTHORITY BOARD
Mayor Rogers attended the Water Facilities Authority Board meeting and stated that General Manager Terry Catlin retired after 19 years of service and said that the Board thanked Terry for his years of service and wished him well on his retirement. He stated that the Board approved contracts for much needed repairs in the facility, along with general maintenance and replacement projects.
Council Member Bennett
• CHINO VALLEY INDEPENDENT FIRE DISTRICT BOARD
Council Member Bennett stated that he was unable to attend the Chino Valley Independent Fire District Board meeting due to out-of-town visitors and introduced Fire Board Director Mike Kreeger who was seated in the audience. • CHINO VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD
Council Member Bennett attended the Chino Valley Unified School District Board meeting and said that the meeting contained lively and passionate discussion for four and a half hours.
• CALIFORNIA INSTITUTION FOR WOMEN CITIZENS ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Council Member Bennett attended the California Institution for Women (CIW) Citizens Advisory Committee and stated that there are currently only two female
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prisons in the State of California, with CIW currently housing 917 inmates and the other prison houses 2,500 inmates. He stated that the current Warden of CIW is trying to get approximately 300-500 inmates transferred to her facility. He stated that the median age of the inmates is 55 years old, and that the facility is doing a wonderful job with rehabilitation efforts.
• CALIFORNIA INSTITUTION FOR MEN CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE Council Member Bennett attended the California Institution for Men (CIM) Citizens Advisory Committee and stated that there are currently 2,289 inmates.
He said 700 of those inmates have high medical risk, and that the CIM in Chino is known for their outstanding medical care.
Council Member Marquez
• CAL CITIES
o BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Council Member Marquez attended the Cal Cities Legislative Board of Directors meeting and stated that the Board discussed federal and state updates and the schedule for the upcoming annual conference in September.
o INLAND EMPIRE DIVISION MEETING
Council Member Marquez attended the Cal Cities Legislative Committee meeting and stated that it was his last meeting as President and that the next president will be Kristine Scott from Rancho Cucamonga. He said the guest speaker was Sheriff Shannon Dicus who spoke about Proposition 47, homelessness, Laura's Law, and the Fentanyl crisis. • SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS
o LEGISLATIVE COMMUNICATIONS AND MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Council Member Marquez attended the Southern California Association of Governments Legislative Communications and Membership Committee meeting and said the Board discussed legislative updates and prepared a priority list for future legislation.
Mayor Rogers asked the Boy Scout, in the audience to approach the lectern to tell the audience where he is at in the process to become an Eagle Scout. Josh, said that he has one more merit badge to complete, needs to complete the Eagle Scout application, attend the Scoutmaster Conference, and then the Board of Review. Mayor Rogers asked what merit badge he is trying to complete. Josh replied it is his Citizenship in the Community badge and by attending tonight's meeting it would assist as one of the qualifications. Mayor Rogers thanked him for his dedication and commitment to the process and stated that one of the Council Members will more than likely attend his Court of Honor. Council Member Bennett and Mayor Rogers asked what his Eagle Scout project consisted of. Josh said that he finished his project on June 10th and that he built wooden signs and planter boxes for his local church.
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COUNCIL COMMENTS [01:52:26]
Johsz: Council Member Johsz thanked all the residents that hosted National Night Out events and stated that it is a great way for residents to get to know their neighbors. He encouraged residents to host an event next year. Lastly, he reminded residents that school is back in session and to please give people some grace, and to take your time and be safe.
Bennett: Council Member Bennett said that he attended the National Night Out event and that the new Chino Hills Police Lieutenant Juarez drove him around for approximately three hours to six different locations. He said that Lieutenant Juarez is a very nice man, and that the City will be well served. Council Member Bennett congratulated Police Chief Girard on his promotion.
Marquez: Council Member Marquez thanked Assemblyman Chen for setting up a meeting with the Insurance Commission to discuss insurance rates for high fire severity zones. He stated that the City is already doing a wonderful job complying with the requests of the Insurance Commission and that our Fire and Water departments are doing an excellent job keeping our City fire safe. Council Member Marquez stated the Chino Hills State Park is one of the reasons Chino Hills is rated high on insurance ratings and he hopes to have additional dialogue in the future to discuss a resolution either through legislation or through the State Commissioner's Office. Council Member Marquez attended the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority Board of Directors meeting where they elected their Board Members. He also said that he had an opportunity to tour Chino High School and met Principal John Miller and noted that the school is similar to a college campus. Council Member Marquez said that he attended National Night Out and rode with Sergeant Randy Naquin and thanked him for his time.
He said that he had a good time getting to know him on a personal level. Council Member Marquez thanked City Manager Montgomery for assisting him with a meeting request and even though it didn't come to fruition, he appreciated the effort. He thanked Fire Chief Williams for assisting him with a meeting location at the Training Station.
Lastly, he also thanked Mr. and Mrs. McCormick for attending the meeting and discussing his tree maintenance issues.
Rogers: Mayor Rogers announced upcoming Chino Hills Community Foundation events. He said there is a three-part concert series event that will take place at the Chino Hills Community Center, and this coming Friday, the lead singer of Santana, Andy Vargas, along with his nine-piece band will be playing. Tickets can be purchased at chinohillsfoundation.org. Mayor Rogers recommended that attendees bring their own picnic and low back chair and said there will also be a snack bar with items for purchase.
Mayor Rogers announced that the 12th Annual Wine Walk tickets are now on sale and that the VIP tickets are sold out. He stated that there are approximately one thousand general admission tickets on sale for the October 14th event. Lastly, Mayor Rogers attended the National Night Out event and stated that he visited six locations. He said this event is a great way for people to get to know their neighbors and to bring the community together. He continued that he and Council Member Bennett toured Chino High School and that they thoroughly enjoyed the tour and agreed that the campus is
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likened to a Junior College. He thanked the Chino Valley Unified School Districting for facilitating their visit.
Council Member Marquez thanked Joann Genis for the flower of friendship and stated that things will get better.
ADJOURN IN MEMORIAM AND IN HOPE [02:01:16]
Mayor Rogers adjourned the meeting at 8:03 p.m. in memory of CAL FIRE Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, and Exclusive Use Helicopter Pilot Tony Sousa, who lost their lives while fighting the Broadway fire in Riverside County; and, in memory of Father Michael Maher, of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, who passed away on August 4th, at the age of 86.
Respectfull ubmitt-•
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01-1410.--:, :4
CHERYL B A LZ, CITY ERK
APPROVED: September 12, 2023