1. CALL TO ORDER
Public Comments:
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Chula Vista was called to order 5:03 p.m. via teleconference and in the Council Chambers, located in City Hall, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Public Comments:
City Clerk Bigelow called the roll.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG AND MOMENT OF SILENCE Public Comments:
Deputy Mayor Cardenas led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Public Comments:
4.1 COVID-19 Update by the City of Chula Vista Emergency Services Manager Marlon King Attachments
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Public Comments
1. COVID-19 Update 1.11.22.pdf
Emergency Services Manager King gave a presentation on the item.
5. CONSENT CALENDAR (Items 5.1 through 5.9)
Public Comments:
Mayor Casillas Salas announced that Items 5.4, 5.9 and 5.10 would be removed from the Consent Calendar.
Councilmember McCann stated he would abstain from voting on Item 5.4 due to a potential property-related conflict of interest.
Moved by
Councilmember McCann
Seconded by
Councilmember Cardenas
To approve t
he recommended actions
appearing below consent calendar Items 5.1 through 5.3 and 5.5 through 5.8. The headings were read, text waived
.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor Casillas Salas, Councilmember Galvez, Councilmember Padilla, Councilmember McCann, and Councilmember Cardenas Result, Carried (5 to 0)
5.1 Waive Reading of Text of Resolutions and Ordinances Public Comments:
Approve a motion to read only the title and waive the reading of the text of all resolutions and ordinances at this meeting.
5.2 Consideration of Request for Excused Absences
Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Excused Absence John McCann Councilmember.pdf
Approve an excused absence for Councilmember McCann from the December 7, 2021 City Council meeting.
5.3 Employee Positions: Approve the Addition and Deletion of Various Position Titles Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule - 21-0215.pdf
2. Ordinance - Amend CV Muni Code Section 2.05.010 (12-14-2021 Meeting).pdf
3. Attachment 1 - FY 21-22 Compensation Schedule Effective 12-31-2021 (12-14-2021 Meeting).pdf Francisco
Honorable Mayor & City Council,
As Vice-President of the Chula Vista MMPR Chapter Union, I have a comment regarding Attachment 1 which is the FY22 Compensation Schedule. In the Engineering & Capital Projects Department we have a Director of Engineering who is also the City Engineer as shown on page 17 of 69 (Job # 6006). The sole position of the City Engineer (Job # 6010 on page 10) used to be another employee, but over the past three or so years, it has remained vacant and the work has been redistributed up and down the chain of command. Also, on page 5 of Attachment 1, there is no Assistant Director of Engineering (Job # 6008) in the department. Will these two job numbers be deleted? Are these two positions still in the budget as Senior Management positions? I am looking to ensure that the Compensation Schedule is accurate and any out dated job numbers removed. Thank you.
Francisco submitted a written communications regarding positions in the Engineering & Capital Projects Department.
Adopt an ordinance amending Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.05.010 to add the unclassified position titles of Communications/Special Events Coordinator and delete the position title of Special Events Coordinator.
ORDINANCE NO. 3515 OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AMENDING CHULA VISTA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 2.05.010 ADDING THE UNCLASSIFIED POSITION TITLE OF COMMUNICATIONS/SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR AND DELETING THE POSITION TITLE OF SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR (SECOND READING AND ADOPTION)(4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
5.5 Annual Report: Fiscal Year 2020/21 Development Impact Fees, the Parkland Acquisition and Development Fee, and Trunk Sewer Capital Reserve Funds Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report FY 2021 DIF Annual Report - 21-0219.pdf
2. Attachment 1 v3.pdf
3. Attachment 2 v2.pdf
4. Attachment 3 v2.pdf
Receive the annual report regarding Development Impact Fees, the Parkland Acquisition and Development Fee, and Trunk Sewer Capital Reserve Funds for Fiscal Year 2020/21.
5.6 City Election: Call the June 7, 2022 Election for a Mayor, District 1 City Councilmember, District 2 City Councilmember and City Attorney; and Adopt Regulations for Candidate Statements Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - Calling Election June 2022 - 22-0032.pdf
2. Resolution A - Calling Election.pdf
3. Resolution B - Candidate Regulations.pdf
Adopt resolutions A) Calling a general municipal election to be held on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, for the election of a Mayor, two Members of the City Council, representing Districts 1 and 2, and a City Attorney; consolidating the election with the statewide election, and requesting the County of San Diego Board of Supervisors to permit the Registrar of Voters to perform certain services for the conduct of the election; and B) Adopting regulations for candidates for elective office pertaining to materials submitted to the electorate at the general municipal election on June 7, 2022.
A) RESOLUTION NO. 2022-002 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA CALLING A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 2022, FOR THE ELECTION OF A MAYOR, TWO MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL, REPRESENTING DISTRICTS 1 AND 2, AND A CITY ATTORNEY; CONSOLIDATING THE ELECTION WITH THE STATEWIDE ELECTION; AND REQUESTING THE COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO BOARD OF SUPERVISORS TO PERMIT THE REGISTRAR OF VOTERS TO PERFORM CERTAIN SERVICES FOR THE CONDUCT OF THE ELECTION B) RESOLUTION NO. 2022-003 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR CANDIDATES FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE PERTAINING TO MATERIALS SUBMITTED TO THE ELECTORATE AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 2022
5.7 Grant Award: Accept Grant From California Department of Justice for Tobacco Grant Program Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Tobacco Grant 2022 - 22-0033.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - MOU with CA DOJ for Tobacco Grant Program.pdf
3. Resolution - Tobacco Grant.pdf
Adopt a resolution accepting $74,957 in grant funds and appropriating said funds to the Police Grants Section of the State Grants Fund for the Tobacco Grant Program.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-004 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $74,957 FROM THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, TOBACCO GRANT PROGRAM, APPROVING MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY AND CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS TO THE POLICE GRANTS SECTION OF THE STATE GRANTS FUND
5.8 Grant Award: Accept Funding From U.S. Department of Homeland Security for Operation Stonegarden Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - OPSG 2020 funding - 22-0034.pdf
2. Resolution - OPSG 2020.pdf
Zarek Lee
I strongly oppose the acceptance of these funds from the DHS. Operation Stonegarden has been utilized by local law enforcement in other municipalities to racially profile and arrest undocumented immigrants. The Border Patrol has a history of instructing law enforcement to refuse open records requests that would allow the public to know how the funds are being used. Between the secrecy behind the program and the many instances in which the program has been used to deputize local police to be ICE-like agents, the City of Chula Vista must cut any ties with this program. We have not learned our lessons from the Chula Vista ALPR program which was funded by the DHS and used by federal agencies to harass hardworking undocumented immigrants who are valuable members of the community. Local law enforcement should not be stretched thin by the dubious goals of the DHS that only serve to deteriorate public trust. Chula Vista must reject this funding.
Delia Dominguez Cervantes
OPSG grant money is intended to support Border States and territories in accomplishing very specific objectives. What did Chula Vista commit to do with the grant? CV is a 'Welcoming City' how then do you intend to use this grant money intended to support border security & border protection? Zarek Lee submitted written communications in opposition to staff's recommendation.
Delia Dominguez Cervantes submitted written communication registering a neutral position on the item.
Adopt a resolution accepting $88,000 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for Operation Stonegarden.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-005 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $88,000 FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS TO THE POLICE GRANTS SECTION OF THE FEDERAL GRANT FUND FOR OPERATION STONEGARDEN
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
5.4 Contract Award: Accepting Bids and Awarding a Contract to Just Construction, Inc. for the ADA Pedestrian Curb Ramps Program for Fiscal Years 2018/19 and 2020/21 Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report-Award ADA Ramps FY18-19 FY20-21 (CIP STL0432-STL0447) Contract-Appropriate Funds - 22-0021.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - List and Map of Locations.pdf
3. Resolution - Award STL0432-STL0447.pdf
Alan C. spoke in opposition to the item.
Moved by
Councilmember Cardenas
Seconded by
Councilmember Galvez
To adopt Resolution No. 2022-001, heading read, text waived. The motion carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor Casillas Salas, Councilmember Galvez, Councilmember Padilla, Councilmember McCann, and Councilmember Cardenas Result, Carried (5 to 0)
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-001 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING BIDS; AWARDING A CONTRACT FOR THE “ADA PEDESTRIAN CURB RAMPS PROGRAM FY2018/19 (CIP# STL0432)” AND “ADA PEDESTRIAN CURB RAMPS PROGRAM FY2020/21 (CIP# STL0447)” PROJECTS TO JUST CONSTRUCTION, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $346,362; AND TRANSFERRING $125,500 IN TRANSNET APPROPRIATIONS FROM STL0454, “ADA PEDESTRIAN CURB RAMPS PROGRAM FY2021/22, TO STL0432 “ADA PEDESTRIAN CURB RAMPS PROGRAM FY2018/19” PROJECT (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
5.9 Grant Acceptance: Accept Federal and State Funds Supplemental Emergency Rental Assistance Program Awards and Enter into a Contractor/Service Provider Agreement with SBCS Corporation for the Administration of the Program Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Emergency Rental Assistance Program-Accept a Federal and State Allocation - 22-0025.pdf
2. Resolution A .pdf
3. Resolution B.pdf
4. Resolution C.pdf
Alan C. spoke in opposition to the item.
Moved by
Councilmember Cardenas
Seconded by
Councilmember Galvez
To adopt Resolution Nos. 2022-006 through 2022-008, headings were read, text waived. The motion carried by the following vote:
Yes (4)
Mayor Casillas Salas, Councilmember Galvez, Councilmember Padilla, and Councilmember Cardenas Abstain (1)
Councilmember McCann
Result, Carried (4 to 0)
A) RESOLUTION NO. 2022-006 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF A SUPPLEMENTAL ALLOCATION FROM THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT OF 2021 FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY FOR AN EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (ERA2) AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
B) RESOLUTION NO. 2022-007 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION IN THE STATE RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM-2, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE A STANDARD AGREEMENT WITH HCD FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A STATE RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM PURSUANT TO AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT OF 2021 AND ASSEMBLY BILL 832, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
C) RESOLUTION NO. 2022-008 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING REQUIREMENTS PURSUANT TO CHULA VISTA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 2.56.070(B)(3) AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO ENTER INTO AN AMENDED CONTRACTOR/SERVICE PROVIDER SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH SBCS CORPORATION TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE AN EMERGENCY RENTAL AND UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FUNDED BY STATE AND FEDERAL AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT OF 2021 ALLOCATIONS
5.10 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AUTHORIZING REMOTE TELECONFERENCE MEETINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE BODIES OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 12, 2022 THROUGH JANUARY 22, 2022 PURSUANT TO THE BROWN ACT Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Resolution Authorizing Remote Teleconferencing - 22-0046.pdf
2. FINAL Resolution Authorizing Teleconferencing of Legislative Bodies.pdf Alan C spoke in opposition to the item.
Moved by
Councilmember Cardenas
Seconded by
Councilmember Galvez
To adopt Resolution No. 2022-009, heading read, text waived. The motion carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor Casillas Salas, Councilmember Galvez, Councilmember Padilla, Councilmember McCann, and Councilmember Cardenas Result, Carried (5 to 0)
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-009 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AUTHORIZING REMOTE TELECONFERENCE MEETINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE BODIES OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 12, 2022 THROUGH JANUARY 21, 2022 PURSUANT TO THE BROWN ACT
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public Comments
Frank Luzzaro
(I have also submitted this comment under an agenda item. I wasn't sure which was more appropriate. Thank you) Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
I might not be able to attend this evening's meeting of the City Council, but I want to express my 100% support for the hard working men and women at Republic Services. I'm hoping that you and the other Council members will put pressure on Republic Services to offer what the members of Teamsters Local 542 are asking. They deserve it, and Republic Services certainly has the resources to pay them. My guess is the raise they're asking for will simply help to keep up with the rising cost of living, if that. I speak for many residents that I've discussed this with.
Thank you,
Frank Luzzaro
6.1 Public Comments Received for 1/11/2022
Public Comments
Frank Luzzaro
(I'm hoping this will be read at the meeting. Thank you) Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
I might not be able to attend this evening's meeting of the City Council, but I want to express my 100% support for the hard working men and women at Republic Services. I'm hoping that you and the other Council members will put pressure on Republic Services to offer what the members of Teamsters Local 542 are asking. They deserve it, and Republic Services certainly has the resources to pay them. My guess is the raise they're asking for will simply help to keep up with the rising cost of living, if that. I speak for many residents that I've discussed this with.
Thank you,
Frank Luzzaro
Michele Gidron
How much more are you trying to get out of us. I thought this contract was good through 2024 Frank Luzzaro
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
I might not be able to attend this evening's meeting of the City Council, but I want to express my 100% support for the hard working men and women at Republic Services. I'm hoping that you and the other Council members will put pressure on Republic Services to offer what the members of Teamsters Local 542 are asking. They deserve it, and Republic Services certainly has the resources to pay them. My guess is the raise they're asking for will simply help to keep up with the rising cost of living, if that. I speak for many residents that I've discussed this with.
Thank you,
Frank Luzzaro
Joseph Raso and Michele Noid spoke in opposition to a rate increase for trash services.
Alan C spoke regarding masks and COVID-19 regulations.
Susana Sanchez request an update to the City's website.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Comments:
Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and no earlier than the specified in the notice.
7.1 Consideration of Protests Against an Adjustment on Collection Rates to Comply with Organic Waste Regulations Public Comments
Amanda
Republic services workers barely do their jobs as it is and they want to raise our rates?! The compost program is not going to require a separate bin, it is being put with yard waste. This requires no extra effort on republic services part. Find a new company without these lazy entitled workers!! Mark
They have raised our trash rates several times already. Raising the rate to comply with the new waste regulations illustrates the problem of making these regulations without first securing the funding for them and then coming to the citizens once again with hat in hand to pay for them. We are taxed, subject to all manner of onerous fees, and are regulated to death here in California. Enough is enough already.
Jeff Mullin
We pay enough already for trash. Republic Services makes plenty of money. They can reduce the amount they pay their shareholders to pay any additional cost for this requirement.
Lillian
The waste management system, had a rate increase in the last year. Before requesting a rate increase would expect the city to hold the vendor to providing documentation that they have run a LEAN project on this to ensure they have retired costly processes that do not support the food waste mandate and attempted to recoup the additional costs by streamlining internally first.
Dr. Del Merlan
I am a citizen and small business owner with the City of Chula Vista since 2002. Watched the Otay Ranch Community Grow. Served on HOA Board 1 & 3. As a citizen, SB 1383 Ch. 395 requires communities to have a Green Plan in place. Since the law has been adopted Jan. 1, 2022. I have yet to hear of a plan to turn green communities into a viable plan. The HOA Walters Management is the largest offenders not aligning with the cities plans. I'd like to offer a solution for planning. www.authenticlearningexp.com & the Authentic Learning Practice provides evidence and steps for communities to create sustainable solutions for issues such as the strike to be alleviated. The practice book is a template for organizations to develop a leadership development plan for compliance and evidence. Most important: Brings Communities back together. Thank you for your time! God Bless Us All James Parker
Republic Waste requested and received a rate increase (10%) in 2019 due to the price drop in recycled materials. Now they want a 15% increase to take yard waste they already collect, but with food scraps added. How many Chula Vista residents have received a 25% pay increase in the last 3 years? What did Republic do with the money they have collected from residents even though they have failed to provide service? Has Chula Vista considered applying part of the franchise fee they receive from Republic (over $900K) to cover the requested increase instead of shoving the burden to the working families that reside here? Has Republic provided figures concerning what costs they are actually going to incur or is this a guess that will require them to ask for another raise in a year or two? What is there net on recycling materials- have they gone up since the last increase? Why are they just throwing recyclables in the trash if they were important enough to justify the raise last time? Kathleen L Morgan
Please do not allow rate increases. Thank you for your consideration.
Roman Covarrubias
Should the city get quotes from other waste management services to compare the increase requested by Republic Services? Is the city getting reimbursed for the breach of contract? Roesli John
The city should table any discussions of a rate increase until Republic Waste Services Management has an approved agreement with their employees union and all services have been restored. The union workers strike should not serve as leverage for Republic Waster Services contract negotiators to gain approval of an increase in services fee. It would also beneficial for city residence to know what the status is of the current contract i.e. when or has it expired? Is it up for complete renewal or is the city negotiating terms of the contract extension? Or if the city is under contract when does that expire and when would the city have an opportunity to recompete the contract? Monica
Republic is attempting to request a fee increase? Are you kidding me? They recently raised their rates within the last year or two and while now they are implementing a new food waste/compost program that should not equate to a) raising both the trash/recycling rate AND the yardwaste rate and b) raising rates over an extended period of time.
In addition, they have failed to pick up our recycling and yardwaste over the last 3 weeks and have been late to retrieve trash yet they have automatically billed me for the full fee! I contacted them regarding reimbursement for dates where service was not provided and have received no response.
This is completely unsatisfactory! What kind of company does not advise its customers of disruptions and plans to mitigate? What kind of company fails to respond to customer requests? Not a company that should have an exclusive contract with the City let alone be given a fee increase! Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and no earlier than the specified in the notice.
Mayor Casillas Salas opened the public hearing and continued the item to the meeting of January 25, 2022.
The following members of the public submitted written communications in opposition to an adjustment on collection rates:
Amanda
Mark
Jeff Mullin
Lillian
James Parker
Kathleen L. Morgan
Roman Covarrubias
Roesli John
Monica
Dr. Jeff Del Merla submitted written communications offering resources to implement a green plan as a means to alleviate the current Republic Services strike.
7.2 Planning Commission Appeal: Conditional Use Permit and Design Review for a 120-Bed Acute Psychiatric Hospital in the Eastlake II Planned Community, known as Eastlake Behavioral Health Hospital Public Comments
Jeff Mullin
While mental health services are needed the location is a bad fit for this neighborhood. There are many other areas in the city away from homes that are better suited for this type of facility.
Daniel Zeller
As someone who lives in close proximity to the proposed site (~500 ft.), I oppose allowing this facility to go forward.
When I attended one of the early meetings about the proposed hospital, those who would be operating the facility did not allay my concerns about safety and operations at all. In fact, they made me question their plans further. Nor did they give me the sense that they were going to be responsive to the concerns of their future neighbors and be a responsible corporate citizen of Chula Vista.
For those reasons, we should not permit this to move forward.
Roesli John
I can neither support or oppose this proposal until city leadership and residence are provided with a public statement regarding plans for safety to include security, facility integrity, and risk mitigation. For example, if there is an absconder what is the procedure for notifying the local population? Along with this statement any approval of the proposal should also include specified fines, reimbursement of city resources, or penalties if the owner/operators of the facility fail to meet the safety requirements to include loss of approval to operate if violation exceeds a predetermined acceptable threshold.
Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and no earlier than the specified in the notice.
Mayor Casillas Salas opened the public hearing and continued the item to the meeting of January 25, 2022, time certain at 6:00 p.m.
8. ACTION ITEMS
Public Comments:
8.1 Update from Republic Services on the Impacts of Recent Waste Collection Interruptions Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Item 8.1 Written Communications.pdf
2. 8.1 Written Communications Received 1_11.pdf
3. Additional Written Communications.pdf
4. Jan 11 Council presentation.pdf
5. Memo.pdf
Paul de la Pena
We have not had an issue with Republic Services until now. The workers have been friendly and do a great job.
I support our city in picking up the trash and billing republic services.
Cascade investments (which is owned by Bill Gates) owns 34.1% of Republic Services.
Cascade investments can afford to pay a little more to their workers and less to ceo and the rest of the c-suite of Republic Services.
Izzybeth Rodriguez-Prats
Dear City of Chula Vista,
Waste management is a public health concern and a risk to the safety of residents. Accumulated waste can contaminate ground water, contributes to air pollution and can increase health conditions such as respiratory disease. In addition, accumulating waste contributes to an increase in mosquito breeding, vermin, and attracts wildlife.
I highly recommend the City of Chula Vista develop and or update a waste management plan to prevent accumulation of trash due to companies unable to meet the needs of the community. Furthermore, I propose that the contract with Republic be amended and additional trash pick up services are offered (such as Edco).
John Zarem
NO PICKUP TODAY!! today was my garbage day. as instructed by the city, everyone took their stuff to the street. republic never showed up. it looks like the streets of Baghdad out there Jeff Mullin
If Republic Services cannot meet the requirements of the city contract they should be replaced. I am extremely frustrated with the lack of involvement from the mayor and city council. One only needs to look at what Huntington Beach did when Republic Services went on strike last year to see what a city council and mayor should have done with this situation.
Delia Dominguez Cervantes
Approx 2016 I asked the board why Republic Sevices was Sole Sourced.Why was this contract never put out for bid? I asked did we have a backup company/plan in case they did not fulfill their obligation. Two board members & the Mayor laughed and stated you had all those 'bases covered' and had been doing business w/this company long enough. Well here we are. So when does their contract with the CV City expire? Michele
This contract is through 2024
Lillian
I oppose any explanation from Republic Service that does not result in full service restoration immediately. I fully and 100% support the union workers. City management, although the franchise agreement defines labor strikes as uncontrollable circumstances the city should have added a clause that if service is disrupted for more than 7 business days the city has the right to seek a new waste management provider and that process should already be in the works. Additionally city mgmt should have this part of the disaster recovery outline and have a contingency plan laid out to pay a replacement waste management retail costs while new contract pricing is negotiated. The fact that there is NO plan or contingency speaks volumes for whomever is reviewing city contracts and T&Cs. We are not a small city we need elected officials thinking like corporations Frank Luzzaro
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
I might not be able to attend this evening's meeting of the City Council, but I want to express my 100% support for the hard working men and women at Republic Services. I'm hoping that you and the other Council members will put pressure on Republic Services to offer what the members of Teamsters Local 542 are asking. They deserve it, and Republic Services certainly has the resources to pay them. My guess is the raise they're asking for will simply help to keep up with the rising cost of living, if that. I speak for many residents that I've discussed this with.
Thank you,
Frank Luzzaro
Patrice Milkovich
While in support of Union Workers, the lack of timely and consistent communication to Chula Vista Residents, Businesses, Service providers who rely upon Republic Services is creating added consequences to a growing health and public safety issue. The build up of trash, both contained and loosely tossed, poses obvious health and safety concerns. Time for the City to hire an independent operator and bill back Republic Services. I am paying my bill, in full and on-time for insufficient services. NO WAY should the City approve a rate increase for this operator.
Adell Burge
I support the strikers for fair working conditions and well-maintained equipment. I feel city could enforce their solid waste codes to make Republic Services workers jobs easier and more productive but it does not. Republic Services workers should be allowed to tag and refuse to pick up waste carts which are overflowing all over the curb and not properly bundled and tied up (branches/fencing, etc) like many other CA jurisdictions do. Many CV residents are not putting their trash out correctly, are blocking traffic with their waste carts, parking in front of them where they can't be reached by the collection vehicle's control arm or setting them out in front of a neighbor's lot instead of their own. Republic Services workers frequently have to get out of their vehicle to attach an improperly placed cart on their control arm, pick up big debris left on the street around the cart or pick up overflow items that fell out when the cart was lifted by the control arm. They cannot get it all as some of it falls under their vehicle and it is left it to blow into neighbor's lots who routinely must pick up their scofflaw neighbor's trash out of their yard, curb and driveway. Many residents don't flatten their boxes for recycle and so have overflowing recycle carts which are stacked too precarious to be picked up without some of it falling out.
CV should be a "world class city" due to size, location and weather but isn't and won't be due to lack of code enforcement.
Tina Matthias
An update on the strike does not mean we need to have a position, but I do oppose that not all bins are being picked up on a residential level as it has an impact on the health and safety of the Chula Vista environment.
On the city level, the city is not reaching it's diversion goals as for the new mandates and our Climate Action Plan, and therefore Republic Services is to blame. I believe we need to look at a future agreement that would avoid or mitigate future work stoppage. Council, I implore you to open the Republic Agreement and work with staff to make sure this situation does not repeat itself in the future. The next agreement with Republic is scheduled for 2024 leaving us no time to waste, please revise the agreement! Tina Matthias
An update on the strike does not mean we need to have a position, but I do oppose that not all bins are being picked up on a residential level as it has an impact on the health and safety of the Chula Vista environment.
On the city level, the city is not reaching it's diversion goals with new mandates and our Climate Action Plan, and therefore Republic Services is to blame. I believe we need to look at a future agreement that would avoid or mitigate future work stoppages. Council, I implore you to open the Republic Agreement and work with staff to make sure this situation does not repeat itself in the future. The next agreement with Republic is scheduled for 2024 leaving us no time to waste, please revise the agreement! Tina Medina
I'm writing to express my concern and discontent with the decision for Republic to collect all waste items (including 5 weeks of recycling and yard waste) and take it all to the landfill. What does 5 weeks of recycling and yard waste for an entire city look like and what is the environmental impact of such a decision? We do what we can to protect the earth/environment for ours and future generations. This is such a disappointment along with still having to pay our bills which include fees for recycling. I support the workers and their request for a fair contract and safe working conditions. I will not be putting my blue or green cans out this week because I don't believe this is in the best interest of our community. Do better Republic!! James Parker
Republic Waste has received money for services it has not performed. I am certain they are not paying the striking employees, so where is that money going to? When I spoke with personnel from Chula Vista Environmental Services, they said they were taking a “wait and see” approach to dealing with the strike. In addition, we would have to wait until the strike is over until we could find out what credits we would potentially receive on future bills. Republic Waste does not return calls and staffers at their out-of-state call centers have no useful information to provide. When is the city going to hold Republic accountable to the terms of the contract they signed and advocate on behalf of the citizens of Chula Vista to get reimbursed for services they did not receive? If the city can put a lien on someone’s property for non-payment, they should be equally concerned about the current lack of service. Is this the service level that the city specified under the terms of the contract? If so, the city needs to explain why and what is being done to rectify the obvious shortcomings. Whatever factors were used to evaluate and award the current contract need to be revised to include customer service, reliability, and ability to handle contingencies/work stoppage.
Tom O'Donnell
This strike by members of the Teamsters Union is a prime reason the majority of Chula Vista residents voted against project labor agreements (Prop G). Striking during the Holiday Season is a slap in the face to Chula Vista residents. If the workers prefer a higher wage they are free to seek other employment. Send the Teamsters Union packing.
Carolyn Scofield
As a CV resident, I’m concerned about the health and safety of our community, especially essential sanitation workers. Lack of action during this strike has increased risks. Franchise Agreement wording has been cited as the reason no action was taken. A new Franchise Agreement must be centered on our values and allow the City to act as needed. It must include provisions for fair wages and safe, healthy working conditions. Increased oversite of trash collection and the landfill is necessary Mrs. Lien
Everything that I learned so far about the strike, I found out through my neighbors or some random news update on my phone. I wish we received better information. Starting in January, residents were also supposed to start discarding leftover food in the green trash. Due to the current situation, and the green trash not being picked up, I personally refrained from putting leftover in that trash. I hope we won't be billed in January for the two bins that have not been picked up in the last 3 weeks. I also heard that some HOA area like Vista Sonrisa zip 91913 is dealing with rat problems. This used to be my old neighborhood. This is very sad. I also heard that in HOA areas, neighbors use one another's trash without asking permission which is disrespectful and causes frustration among people of the same streets. I appreciate all the efforts being made to provide better work conditions and pay to the Republic Services employees and also continue to maintain regular trash pick up for our neighborhood.
Henry Cagle
While the strike is still on, I'm being billed for a service that I'm not getting and it's costing me extra to hire someone else to dispose of the trash.
Tracy Morgan Hollingworth
Prior to deciding to contact the City Council, I had read your agenda and the payment scales of some of the City Staff including some in law enforcement who are being paid at around $16 an hour.
Since the Republic Services staff are making more than $24 an hour, the City should not ask Republic to increase their pay levels since $24 an hour is more than a fair wage. elizabeth e. nelson
Republic has never been a customer friendly company//prior to the strike, my trash has not been picked up on several occasions/the feedback is Don't Worry it will be resolved//Fire Republic Services//the multi-million company cannot or won't pay their employees a decent wages with better benefits//I support the strike despite the Nasty inconvieince William Henry
None
Todd Voorhees
Regarding the trash strike, let's continue to support the 250 working families, but it is time elected officials and others stand up to support ALL Chula Vista working families. Let us not forget that these working families are also Republic customers. Our bills should reflect the service received during the strike. Let's talk about this!! Make it happen. Or go out to competitive bid for another provider!! Kristin
Republic service and the city need to figure things out so that the residents are not affected. It has gone on long enough and all services need to be resumed Nancy Painter
One time my housesitter forgot to put out my recycling bin. The employee called his office to do a welfare check on me. My housesitter confirmed that she had forgotten to put out the bin. The Republic employee was worried about me. I appreciated it very much.
John Molina
Can they strike during a pandemic???
R
Settle now with back pay to those who do the work.
Management had one job,-
Assure our trash is picked up on time and completely, no littering! Management should not get salary increases or bonuses or offices nicer or greater that those who do the work!!! If management won’t settle, fire them immediately as incompetent and selfish.
Zeamora Pablo
Support an end to the strike. I don't know what workers are striking over but obviously it’s important. Both parties need to compromise and come to a resolution that is fair to both parties. All I know is the little guy usually gets the short end of the stick so I hope striking workers are heard and the resolution is fair.
Robert Ledesma
I'm paying my bill. Republic needs to do what they are being paid to do.
The City needs to ensure that Republic provides the service.
Margaret Fellenbaum
It’s time to end this strike or find a company to remove all the trash from our neighborhoods. Forget Covid, this is a health emergency playing out in the streets of our city. The strike has gone on for too long; it’s unacceptable! Jonathan George
I think it’s appalling that we are still being billed for services by Republic. At a minimum they should be forced to bill only 1/3 of their normal costs, as they are only servicing 1/3 (if that) of our refuse. STOP THIS NOW city of CV politicians!!!!!! Martin Calvo
The city needs to declare a health emergency and get an injunction to get the workers back to work while continuing to negotiate, if necessary, through binding arbitration. If that doesn’t work fire the strikers and get replacement workers. If the air controllers could be replaced back in the 80’s certainly 250 sanitation workers can be replaced as well. Someone in the city needs to show some leadership on this matter.
Alexandra Epstein
First, I am appalled that the Mayor, who we pay quite handsomely, opted to complete her Italy vacation rather than return to City Hall to assist her constituents with trash collection. While taking trash to the dump is fine for able folks with large enough cars, it is untenable for those without and costly for apartment complexes. The Mayor, the City Manager, (another well paid person) and the rest of leadership should have not allowed this trash situation to get this bad! A backup plan should have been available immediately! Leadership allowed an added health crisis to an already horrific health crisis! So now that the Mayor returned NOW there’s a bit of action on this issue? I wonder if the Mayor was up for re-election if this had gotten this out of hand….. Dereliction of duty all around! Joan Locke
Same as my comments in the previous screen.
David Kaltenborn
The city needs to have an alternative plan to allow other trash collectors to operate in the city. They are NOT a public utility. The city should immediately allow other companies to operate for the safety of the residents.
Roesli John
The city should table any discussions of a rate increase until Republic Waste Services Management has an approved agreement with their employees union and all services have been restored. The union workers strike should not serve as leverage for Republic Waster Services contract negotiators to gain approval of an increase in services fee. It would also beneficial for city residence to know what the status is of the current contract i.e. when or has it expired? Is it up for complete renewal or is the city negotiating terms of the contract extension? Or if the city is under contract when does that expire and when would the city have an opportunity to recompete the contract? Michael Cepe
Please end the trash strike. Will residents get a credit on their trash bill for non-pickup of the green and blue bins during the strike? Carol Pedersen
I have been billed full-price by Republic Services for services NOT fully provided - for my home and my 3-unit rental property. That's not right. I pay my bills on time and expect my trash, recycle and yard waste to be picked up weekly - no excuses. The Chula Vista City Council should, if possible, intervene and stop this strike or replace the sanitation workers with permanent non-union employees who will fulfill the obligation to pick up the City's waste.
Kelly Luna
I'm frustrated by the trash strike! I am paying for a service that I'm not getting! I called and asked for a refund, I was denied. This situation needs to be resolved immediately! Robert Walker
Get a new company
Johnny Romero
Contract a new company to deal with the trash
John Galt
As a union member I cannot support this strike. Republic employees make a comparable wage to their counterparts in other states. Choosing to strike during the holidays and a covid outbreak is very bad form. None of my friends or neighbors that I have spoken to support this strike.
Alice Kolodji
I feel strongly that the Republic Sanitation workers should be supported and backed by the city in their push for a safe work environment and livable wage. They are essential and have been working throughout the pandemic and often unrecognized.
John Sturges
We support prompt resolution to the Republic strike. In the mean time, the city must ensure full service waste support to ensure our neighborhoods remain safe and clean. The lack of transparency from the city and Republic during the strike has been unsatisfactory.
Andy Crowe
Representing a business operator in the city, I would like the opportunity to choose my trash collection service. We pay over $1600/month for trash pickups 6 days/week in addition to weekly recycling. The conditions left on my business due to the lack of trash collection are both unsafe and unhealthy. I do not blame Republic or the employees, I am frustrated that I do not have any choices, EDCO for example. I do not have the staff to regularly take trash to the dump.
City Manager Kachadoorian introduced the item. Deputy City Manager Crockett and Environmental Services Manager Medrano gave a presentation on the item.
Richard Copeland, Matt Cross and Neil Mohr representing Republic Services gave a presentation on the item.
Council discussion ensued.
Mayor Casillas Salas requested that staff report back on the feasibility of issuing a request for proposals at the end of the contract to select a provider, and within said proposal, examine what it would cost to bring services in-house.
City Attorney Googins provided clarification on the process of submitting referrals and providing feedback for the item.
Councilmember Galvez spoke in support of declaring a public health state of emergency and invoking the self-help option within the Republic Services contract.
The following members of the public spoke in support of Republic Services workers:
Castillo Doheny representing Teamsters Local 542
Cesar Silva representing Teamsters Local 542
Salvador Abrica representing Teamsters Local 542
John Acosta
Michele Noid
Adan Pelayo-Mark
Cesar Fernandez, Chula Vista resident
Sophia Rodriguez, Chula Vista resident
Rita McIntyre, Chula Vista resident
Maria Whitehorse
Hilda Salas
Oscar Salas
Mayor Casillas Salas recessed the meeting at 7:06 p.m. The Council reconvened at 7:13 p.m., with all members present.
The following members of the public spoke in opposition to the Republic Services waste collection interruptions:
Sandra Kaltenborn
Leonardo Vanegas
Alan, Chula Vista resident
John Serrano
Ricardo Santoyo-Mejia representing Chula Vista Elementary School District John Teevan
Cynthia Brown
John Moot, Chula Vista resident
Jennifer Carbuccia representing Sweetwater Union High School District spoke regarding the Republic Services contract with the District and its impacts on schools.
The following members of the public submitted request to speak but were not present when called:
Joseph Raso
Sean Chamberlin
The following members of the public submitted written communication with a neutral position on Republic Services waste collection interruption:
Johnny Romero
Roesli John
David Kaltenborn
Martin Calvo
Jonathan George
Margaret Fellenbaum
John Molina
Kathleen L Morgan
William Henry
Mrs. Lien
Dr. Del Merlan, Chula Vista resident
Tina Medina
Tina Matthias
Delia Dominguez Cervantes
Henry Cagle
Carolyn Scofield, Chula Vista resident
James Parker
Patrice Milkovich
Frank Luzzaro
Izzybeth Rodriguez-Prats
The following members of the public submitted written communication in opposition to the Republic Services waste collection interruption:
Andy Crowe
Monica
John Galt
Robert Walker
Kelly Luna
Carol Pedersen
Roesli John
Joan Locke
Alexandra Epstein
Roman Covarrubias
Todd Voorhees
Tracy Morgan Hollingworth
James Parker
Tom O'Donnell
Daniel Zeller
Lillian
Michele Gidron
Michele
Jeff Mullin
Mark
Zarek Lee
Amanda
John Zarem
John Sturges
Alice Kolodji
Michael Cepe
Roesli John
Robert Ledesma
Zeamora Pablo
Nancy Painter
Kristin
elizabeth e. nelson
Adell Burge
Delia Dominguez Cervantes
Paul de la Pena
Councilmember Padilla distributed and discussed a memorandum regarding Republic Services. At the request of Councilmember Padilla, there was consensus of a majority of the Council to direct the City Manager and City Attoney pursue the following actions:
Request the City Manager to provide immediate written notice to Republic Services of the City’s intention to exercise its Self Help rights under Section 11.2.3.
Such notice shall include Self Help actions such as the establishment of recyclable and yard-waste collection sites at City locations with the support of City employees — the expenses incurred being billed to Republic Services.
The written notice shall include direction to Republic Services to provide equipment and staffing to pick up materials dropped at these sites and transport them to the landfill at their expense.
The written notice will also provide that the City will pursue any and all remedies available to it under the Franchise Agreement if city-wide collection and cleanup is not commenced within 7days.
Request the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare a potential declaration of Public Health Emergency to give the City additional latitude to address the crisis.
Request the City Manager to return to the City Council in 90 days with a suggested process and timeline for initiating a Request for Proposal, or "RFP,” for the collection of Solid Waste, and Franchised Recyclables from Residential, Commercial, and Industrial sites within the City in anticipation of the expiration of this agreement — or sooner if warranted.
Request the City Manager and City Attorney to immediately evaluate our authority under the Franchise Agreement to direct Republic Services to immediately suspend all collection activities on accounts of customers in Chula Vista until the situation is resolved—and also our ability to rebate or credit customers for the weeks in which collection activities did not occur.
City Attorney Googins spoke regarding City's options to address the Republic Services waste collection interruption.
9. CITY MANAGER’S REPORTS
Public Comments:
There were none.
10. MAYOR’S REPORTS
Public Comments:
10.1 Consideration of Reappointment of Ann Moore to the San Diego Board of Port Commissioners for the Term Beginning January 2023.
Public Comments:
Council discussion ensued.
Moved by
Mayor Casillas Salas
Seconded by
Councilmember Padilla
To reappoint Ann Moore to the San Diego Board of Port Commissioners for the upcoming term beginning January 2023.
Yes (5)
Mayor Casillas Salas, Councilmember Galvez, Councilmember Padilla, Councilmember McCann, and Councilmember Cardenas Result, Carried (5 to 0)
11. COUNCILMEMBERS’ COMMENTS
Public Comments:
Councilmember McCann extended holiday greetings.
12. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORTS
Public Comments:
There were none.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Public Comments:
Mayor Casillas Salas adjourned the meeting in memory of Eduardo Federico Vargas Ojeda, the father of Nora Vargas.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:37 p.m.
Minutes prepared by: Tyshar Turner, Assistant City Clerk