1. CALL TO ORDER
Public Comments:
The meeting was called to order at 5:01 p.m.
Mayor McCann announced, pursuant to the California Brown Act, (Government Code Section 54952.3), that he and all Councilmembers would receive $50 for their attendance at that Housing Authority meeting, held simultaneously with the City Council meeting.
2. ROLL CALL
Public Comments:
City Clerk Bigelow called the roll.
Councilmember Preciado joined the meeting at 5:32 p.m.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG AND MOMENT OF SILENCE Public Comments:
Led by Mayor McCann.
4. SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Public Comments:
4.1 Presentation of a Proclamation Recognizing SEIU 221 - Represented MAAC Project Employees Public Comments:
The proclamation was presented.
4.2 Presentation of a Proclamation Proclaiming April as Arts, Culture, and Creativity Month in the City of Chula Vista Attachments
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Public Comments
1. CAC 4-21 presentation.pdf
The proclamation was presented.
5. CONSENT CALENDAR (Items 5.1 through 5.7)
Public Comments:
Moved by
Councilmember Inzunza
Seconded by
Councilmember Chavez
To approve t
he recommended actions
appearing below consent calendar Items 5.1 through 5.7. The headings were read, text waived
.
The motion was carried by the following vote:
Yes (4)
Mayor McCann, Councilmember Chavez, Councilmember Inzunza, and Deputy Mayor Fernandez Result, Carried (4 to 0)
5.1 Approve Meeting Minutes
Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Draft Meeting Minutes - April 14, 2026 .pdf
Approve the minutes dated: April 14, 2026
5.2 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.
5.3 Citywide Holiday Renaming: Adopt an Ordinance Renaming Cesar Chavez Day to Farmworkers Day Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - 2nd Reading.pdf
2. Ordinance - Amending Titles 10 and 12 to Rename Holidays.pdf Adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 10.08 (Definitions for Vehicles and Traffic) and Chapter 12.50 (Temporary Placement Of Signs In Designated Portions Of The Public Rights-Of-Way) of the Chula Vista Municipal Code to replace Cesar Chavez Day with Farmworkers Day. (Second Reading and Adoption)
Item 5.3 heading:
ORDINANCE NO. 3620 OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AMENDING CHULA VISTA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 10.08.110 RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF HOLIDAYS FOR PARKING METERS AND ZONES AND SECTION 12.50.050 RELATING TO THE TIMES WHEN SIGNS CAN BE TEMPORARILY PLACED IN DESIGNATED PORTIONS OF THE PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY (SECOND READING AND ADOPTION)
5.4 Housing Authority Policy: Updates to the Chula Vista Housing Authority Multifamily Mortgage Revenue Bond Policies to Comply with the California Debt Limit Allocation Committee Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - Chula Vista Housing Authority Bond Policies - 26-0094.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Proposed Redlines to Bond Policies.pdf
3. Resolution(2).pdf
4. Resolution Exhibit 1 - Bond Policies.pdf
Adopt a resolution of the Chula Vista Housing Authority to approve updates to the Chula Vista Housing Authority Multifamily Mortgage Revenue Bond Policies and authorize the Director to make additional minor clerical or administrative changes as needed.
Item 5.4 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-002 OF THE CHULA VISTA HOUSING AUTHORITY APPROVING REVISIONS TO ITS MULTIFAMILY MORTGAGE REVENUE BOND POLICIES
5.5 Grant Acceptance: Accept Grant Funding for the Hazardous Fuels Reduction Program from the California Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement/California Volunteers Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - California Volunteers Grant Acceptance - 26-0113 - 26-0113.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Award Letter.pdf
3. Attachment 2 - Agreement.pdf
4. Resolution(1).pdf
Adopt a resolution accepting grant funds in the amount of $1,499,974.31 from the California Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement/California Volunteers #CaliforniansForAll Youth Service Corps Grant to support the Fuels Crew as part of the Hazardous Fuels Reduction Program.
Item 5.5 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-063 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF SERVICE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT/CALIFORNIA VOLUNTEERS #CALIFORNIANSFORALL 2025-2026 YOUTH SERVICE CORPS GRANT AND AUTHORIZING THE FIRE CHIEF TO EXECUTE ASSOCIATED GRANT DOCUMENTS
5.6 Grant Application and Appropriation: Authorize Submission of an Application for the Fiscal Year 2025 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant and Appropriate Funds Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - 2025 Justice Assistance Grant Application - 26-0124.pdf
2. Resolution - JAG 2025.pdf
3. Attachment 1 -- Application for Federal Assistance.pdf Adopt a resolution authorizing submission of a grant application for the Fiscal Year 2025 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant, authorizing the City Manager to execute grant documents, and amending the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget to appropriate grant funds. (4/5 Vote Required)
Item 5.6 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-064 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF A GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2025 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE GRANT DOCUMENTS AND AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 BUDGET TO APPROPRIATE GRANT FUNDS (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
5.7 Meeting Designation: Designate July 7, 2026 as a Non-Regular Meeting Day Pursuant to Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.04.020 Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - July 7 Designation - 26-0121.pdf
2. Ordinance .pdf
Place an ordinance on first reading designating July 7, 2026 as a non-regular meeting day pursuant to Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.04.020 (
F
irst
R
eading)
.
Item 5.7 heading:
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA DESIGNATING JULY 7, 2026, AS A NON-REGULAR MEETING DAY PURSUANT TO CHULA VISTA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 2.04.020 (FIRST READING)
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Attachments
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Public Comments
1. 6 Written Communications.pdf
Arleth Teresa Perez Beltran
Muchas veces pensamos que el vaping o los cigarrillos solo afectan la salud, pero también están dañando seriamente nuestro medio ambiente y a nuestras comunidades.
Por ejemplo, una sola colilla de cigarro puede contaminar suficiente agua como para matar peces, porque libera químicos tóxicos como plomo y arsénico. Además, los filtros de cigarro son plástico que no desaparece, sino que se convierte en microplásticos que terminan en nuestra agua y en nuestros alimentos.
Y los vapes desechables son aún más peligrosos. Contienen baterías, metales pesados y sustancias tóxicas, lo que los convierte en residuos peligrosos que afectan nuestras calles y comunidades.
Pero también tenemos que hablar de cómo estas industrias atraen a los jóvenes. Los sabores dulces hacen que el vaping sea más atractivo y más adictivo. No es casualidad: son productos diseñados para enganchar.
Cada año, más de 8 millones de personas mueren en el mundo a causa del tabaco. Además, el costo económico es enorme, con miles de millones de dólares gastados en atención médica y daños a la sociedad.
Y no solo eso, la industria del tabaco también tiene un impacto ambiental enorme: se estima que causa la pérdida de 600 millones de árboles al año y utiliza 22 mil millones de toneladas de agua.
Esto no es solo un problema ambiental, también es un problema de salud, de economía y de justicia para nuestras comunidades.
Por eso es importante crear más conciencia.
Rita Beyers
I am concerned about the lack of progress in "renovating" Hilltop Park. According to a recent report by KGTV, work on the park has been paused due to "potential rain" impacts and is now projected to be completed in the fall. If that vague target is met, the park will have been "under renovation" for approximately a year and a half. The city website that is supposed to provide updates is vague and does not provide timely updates. I suggest the city council place a standing item on their agenda for a Hilltop Park update until the park is completely renovated.
The following members of the public spoke in support of Police Chief Roxana Kennedy:
Summer Stephan
Robert Brewer
Pastor Ruben
Fred Rowbothom
Dr. Chanda Simmons
BeBe
Shirley Horton
Rita Beyers submitted written comments regarding progress on Hilltop Park.
Arleth Teresa Perez Beltran spoke regarding the environmental, public health, and community impacts associated with tobacco products and vaping.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Comments:
7.1 Annual Military Equipment Report: Accept the Annual AB 481 Military Equipment Report, Review and Renew Ordinance No. 3549, and Amend the Chula Vista Police Department Military Equipment Policy Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - Annual AB 481 Military Equipment Report - 26-0117.pdf
2. Resolution(4).pdf
3. Attachment 1 - Ordinance 2023-3549.pdf
4. Attachment 2 - CVPD Policy 714 [Redline].pdf
5. Attachment 3 - CVPD Policy 714 [Clean].pdf
6. Attachment 4 - CVPD 2025 Military Equipment Report.pdf
7. 7.1 Written Communications.pdf
8. Item 7.1 2025 AB 481 POWERPOINT_FINAL_4-15-26.pdf
Margaret Baker
On behalf of South Bay People Power, I am writing to express our concerns & urge a 'no' vote until necessary revisions are made to bring CV's military equipment policies into compliance with state law & best practices. Please see our detailed email & support the community's longstanding desire for community safety without more weapons.
Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and no earlier than the time specified in the notice.
Captain Barrett and Lieutenant Monreal gave a presentation on the item.
Mayor McCann opened the public hearing.
Margaret Baker, representing South Bay People Power, submitted written comments in opposition to the item.
There being no further members of the public who wished to speak, Mayor McCann closed the public hearing.
Moved by
Councilmember Inzunza
Seconded by
Mayor McCann
To adopt Resolution No. 2026-065, the heading was read, text waived. The motion was carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor McCann, Councilmember Chavez, Councilmember Preciado, Councilmember Inzunza, and Deputy Mayor Fernandez Result, Carried (5 to 0)
Item 7.1 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-065 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING THE CHULA VISTA POLICE DEPARTMENT 2025 ANNUAL AB 481 MILITARY EQUIPMENT REPORT, RENEWING ORDINANCE NO. 3549, AND APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO MILITARY EQUIPMENT POLICY
7.2 Approve Issuance of Bonds: Approve the Issuance of Tax-Exempt Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for the Acquisition, Construction, and Equipping of the Sol Vista Apartments Project and Certain Other Matters Relating Thereto Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - TEFRA - Approval of Bond Issuance for Sol Vista Affordable Housing Project - 26-0139.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Project Location Map.pdf
3. Resolution.pdf
4. Item 7.2 - Sol Vista TEFRA.pdf
Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and no earlier than the time specified in the notice.
Housing Manager Warwick gave a presentation on the item.
Mayor McCann opened the public hearing. There being no members of the public who wished to speak, Mayor McCann closed the public hearing.
Moved by
Mayor McCann
Seconded by
Councilmember Inzunza
To adopt Resolution No. 2026-066, the heading was read, text waived. The motion was carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor McCann, Councilmember Chavez, Councilmember Preciado, Councilmember Inzunza, and Deputy Mayor Fernandez Result, Carried (5 to 0)
Item 7.2 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-066 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING THE ISSUANCE, SALE, AND DELIVERY OF MULTIFAMILY HOUSING REVENUE OBLIGATIONS OF THE CHULA VISTA HOUSING AUTHORITY FOR THE SOL VISTA APARTMENTS PROJECT
8. ACTION ITEMS
Public Comments:
8.1 Consider Items Removed From the Consent Calendar, if Any Public Comments:
There were none.
8.2 Housing Authority Bond Approval: Approve the Issuance of Tax-Exempt Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for the Acquisition, Construction, and Equipping of the Sol Vista Apartments Project and Certain Other Matters Relating Thereto Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - Approval of Bond Issuance for Sol Vista Apts - 26-0091.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Project Location Map(1).pdf
3. Attachment 2 - Feasibility Analysis.pdf
4. Attachment 3 - Borrower Loan Agreement.pdf
5. Attachment 4 - Funding Loan Agreement.pdf
6. Attachment 5 - Regulatory Agreement and Declaration of Restrictive Covenants.pdf
7. HA Resolution - Bond Issuance (Sol Vista Apts).pdf
8. Item 8.2 - Sol Vista Bond Issuance.pdf
Housing Manager Warwick gave a presentation on the item.
Moved by
Mayor McCann
Seconded by
Councilmember Chavez
To adopt Housing Authority Resolution No. 2026-003, the heading was read, text waived. The motion was carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor McCann, Councilmember Chavez, Councilmember Preciado, Councilmember Inzunza, and Deputy Mayor Fernandez Result, Carried (5 to 0)
Item 8.2 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-003 OF THE CHULA VISTA HOUSING AUTHORITY (1) AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF ITS TAX-EXEMPT MULTIFAMILY HOUSING REVENUE NOTE IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $14,000,000 FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING THE ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE SOL VISTA APARTMENTS MULTIFAMILY RENTAL HOUSING PROJECT; (2) APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO EXECUTE AND DELIVER THE NOTE, COMPLETE THE TRANSACTION, AND IMPLEMENT THIS RESOLUTION; AND (3) RATIFYING AND APPROVING ANY ACTION HERETOFORE TAKEN IN CONNECTION WITH THE NOTE
8.3 Park Naming and Council Policy Waiver: Approving Naming of the Future Urban Park at Oxford Street and Fourth Avenue as “Roy Franzen Park, Jr.” and Waiving City Council Policy No. 470-01 Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report- Proposed Park Naming for Future 4th and Oxford Street Park - 26-0120.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Park Naming Request.pdf
3. Attachment 2 - City Council Policy 470-01 (City Asset Naming and Renaming).pdf
4. Resolution(3).pdf
5. Item 8.3 - Additional Information.pdf
Marco Polo Cortez spoke in support of the item.
Moved by
Deputy Mayor Fernandez
Seconded by
Mayor McCann
To adopt Resolution No. 2026-067, as amended to name the park “Roy Franzen, Jr. Park,” the heading was read, text waived. The motion was carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor McCann, Councilmember Chavez, Councilmember Preciado, Councilmember Inzunza, and Deputy Mayor Fernandez Result, Carried (5 to 0)
Item 8.3 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-067 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING THE NAMING OF THE FUTURE URBAN PARK AT OXFORD STREET AND FOURTH AVENUE AS “ROY FRANZEN, JR. PARK” AND WAIVING CITY COUNCIL POLICY NO. 470-01
8.4 Contract Award and CIP Appropriation: Approve a Consultant Services Agreement with Carrier Johnson + Culture for the City of Chula Vista Police Department Facilities Master Planning Effort and Amend the Fiscal Year 2025-26 CIP Budget Accordingly Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - Award of Police Department Facilities Master Plan Contract - 26-0098.pdf
2. Resolution- PD Facilities Master Plan .pdf
3. Attachment 1 - Carrier Johnson + Culture Agreement 41626(1).pdf
4. Item 8.4 CVPD Master Plan Agreement 42126.pdf
Acting Police Chief Peak, Special Projects Manager Relph, and Craig Atkinson and Steven Kiss, representing Carrier Johnson + Culture, gave a presentation on the item.
Moved by
Deputy Mayor Fernandez
Seconded by
Councilmember Chavez
To adopt Resolution No. 2026-068, the heading was read, text waived. The motion was carried by the following vote:
Yes (5)
Mayor McCann, Councilmember Chavez, Councilmember Preciado, Councilmember Inzunza, and Deputy Mayor Fernandez Result, Carried (5 to 0)
Item 8.4 heading:
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-068 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA (1) APPROVING A CONSULTANT SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY AND CARRIER JOHNSON + CULTURE FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT FACILITIES MASTER PLANNING SERVICES AND (2) AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM BUDGET AND APPROPRIATING $93,815 TO CIP PROJECT “POLICE SUBSTATION FEASIBILITY STUDY” (SAF0171) PROJECT (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
The meeting was recessed at 9:39 p.m. and reconvened at 9:50 p.m.
8.5 City Council Referral: Presentation and Discussion on Potential Amendments to Chula Vista Municipal Code Chapter 5.56 Tobacco Retailer Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - Tobacco Retailer Permit CVMC 5.56 - 26-0096.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - CVMC 5.56, Tobacco Retailer.pdf
3. Attachment 2 - Comparison of San Diego and California Jurisdictions TRL Regulations.pdf
4. Attachment 3 - Sensitive Location Buffers and Impact on Existing Tobacco Retail Permits.pdf
5. Attachment 4 - Sensitive Location and Tobacco Retail Permits Buffer of 500 and 1,000 Feet.pdf
6. Attachment 5 - Public Tobacco Use and Accessibility Survey Results.pdf
7. Attachment 6 - Tobacco Retailer Survey Results.pdf
8. Attachment 7 – Summary of CVMC 5.56 Tobacco Retailer Policy Areas for Discussion.pdf
9. 8.5 Written Communications.pdf
10. Item 8.5 - Additional Information.pdf
11. Item 8.5 Tobacco Retail Permit - CC 2026.04.21.pdf
Ana Simmons
I would like to advocate for greater awareness, stronger enforcement, and more responsible oversight of tobacco, vaping, and smoke shop licensing within the City of Chula Vista. The growing ease of access to vaping products—particularly for youth and minors—is a serious public health concern that warrants immediate attention. Vaping and THC products also have a direct and concerning impact on student engagement and academic success. Schools are increasingly seeing disruptions to learning related to substance use, including decreased attention, absenteeism, behavioral issues, and reduced participation in class and school activities. For some student populations—particularly those already vulnerable due to stress, trauma, or underlying conditions—early exposure to nicotine and THC can act as a trigger or conduit for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis. These effects can interfere with long term educational outcomes and, in some cases, lead to lasting mental health consequences that affect not only students but their families and school communities as well. When a young person develops a substance dependency or experiences the onset of a serious mental illness, the consequences can be life altering. Addiction or untreated mental health conditions can derail a youth’s academic path, strain family relationships, and limit future opportunities during critical developmental years. What may begin as experimentation can escalate into long term challenge Ceanne Guerra
Dear Mayor and Council, as a lifelong Chula Vista resident, I'm in support of strengthening the city's TRL program to help give our youth a better chance at a healthier and longer life. My father, who was a smoker since he was 13 years old, died too soon from lung cancer, telling me that he wished he'd never smoked. Tobacco is our community's #1 killer- killing more people each year than alcohol, drugs, murder, suicide and cars combined. And it's a preventable death. A weak TRL with small penalties for violations don't stop illegal sales. Infrequent/rare inspections enable violators to keep their licenses. At least 1k feet distance between tobacco retailers and schools and parks reduces youth smoking rates. As a child and teen, I remember when Broadway was the seedy side of town we were told to stay away from. I'm happy to see focus to revitalize Broadway and downtown Third Avenue with restaurants and other businesses. But when I visited a restaurant on Broadway and could smell the smoke pouring out of the nearby smoke shop and the cars of patrons, it made me not return to the restaurant. Creating a tobacco swamp on Broadway or Third Avenue impacts non-tobacco businesses. District 2 is a historical part of our city that needs to be preserved as the jewel it is, and kept clean, healthy, and desirable for our youth, our residents, and visitors, especially as Gaylord is nearby to generate dollars for our city. Please prevent an unhealthy tobacco swamp from taking our city.
Michelle Bell RN
As a pediatric nurse for over 35 years, I am strongly opposed to vaping. The amounts of ncotine in Vapes damages developing brains, alters mental health and causes immediate respiratory issues. These respiratory issues can be severe - issues like coughing, wheezing and lung damage from the harmful chemicals. Social media and the tabacco compainies would have our youth believe these products (unlike cigarettes) are harmless. This is far from the truth. Vaping is linked to higher rates of axniety and depressioin amoung youth. Our youth tell us they use vapes to decrease life stress. However, nicotine is a stimulant that can increase anxiety, trigger panic attacks, and heart palpatations. Higher rates of exposure to Formaldehyde - can lead to irreversible lung damage. Vaping is highly addictive not to mention the amount of toxic chemicals they are breathing in multiple times per day. As a long time nurse and concerned citizen, we must prioritize stricter regualstions, offer more education in our schools, ban flavors and ban sales near schools - in order to proctect our youth.
Riley Steinley
As a local youth group facilitator to at-risk and high-risk youth, I've seen firsthand how accessible and damaging nicotine products are to underage students in our community. My high school students share that purchasing flavored vapes and other tobacco products is easy, and that they visit specific retailers known for selling to minors around San Diego County. My students have shared that they would never smoke cigarettes or unflavored vapes because they "taste gross" and many planned to quit when the Flavor Ban was put in place. Sadly, many retailers continue to sell banned products, such as flavored vapes, regardless of the risk and impact to young people. With this experience, I strongly support the introduction of TRL to ensure that all of our county's youth are set up for lifelong success and to prevent them from becoming victims of profit-focused retailers and Big Tobacco.
Lora Bumatay
To whom it may concern:
As a school leader, the number of students engaged in tobacco use / vaping is extremely concerning. Students need to find healthier activities to cope with stress. The tobacco industry continues to target our youth to capture life-long consumers for profit. I support having more stricter conditions to obtain a TRL.
Please consider these suggestions:
-Capping the number of licenses issued to sell tobacco
-Establishing a minimum distance between youth receptors, like schools, and tobacco licensees -Establishing a minimum distance between licensees
-Annual compliance checks (overt and with decoys)
-Stronger penalties for selling to youth
Thank you,
Lora Bumatay
Lynnette Famania
As a school nurse for the Sweetwater Union High School District, I support the adoption of a tobacco retail license as an important step to protect the health and well-being of our students. Every day, I see the impact that nicotine addiction and tobacco can have on young people, including increased anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and long-term health risks.
A tobacco retail licensing system would strengthen oversight of retailers, help prevent illegal sales to minors, and reinforce consistent standards across our community. We can reduce youth access to harmful products and create a healthier environment for students to learn and thrive.
Tina Matthias, South Bay Sustainable Communities
Vaping and cigarette use are often framed as personal habits, but their consequences are anything but personal. From toxic waste to environmental pollution, these products are actively harming our communities and the places we call home.
A single cigarette butt may seem small, but its impact is anything but. Just one can release toxic chemicals like lead and arsenic, enough to kill all the fish in a standard household aquarium within 72. And it doesn’t simply disappear. Those filters are made of plastic, slowly breaking down into microplastics that seep into our waterways, our ecosystems, and ultimately, into the food we eat. What we toss away so casually doesn’t go away…it comes back to us.
Disposable vapes are even more dangerous. They contain batteries, heavy metals, and toxic substances, making them hazardous waste that affects our streets and communities. I have seen firsthand the introduction of vapes into our society when they started showing up in storm drains at our monthly community cleanups I’ve hosted over the last 15 years.
Please support the Tobacco Retail License Ordinance. Thank You Yaneth Rodriguez
Dear City of Chula Vista Council Members, Mayor and Deputy Mayor, My name is Yaneth Rodriguez, and I work at the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine, Department of Population and Public Health Sciences. I would like to share some educational information from the Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (USC TCORS) to consider when discussing potential amendments to Chula Vista Municipal Code Chapter 5.56, Tobacco Retailer (Agenda item 8.5).
A main research point I would like to highlight is that a strong, comprehensive tobacco retail license (TRL) ordinance to regulate e-cigarettes, flavored, and menthol tobacco products has tremendous potential to substantially reduce youth use of tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes. A Southern California research study showed that a strong tobacco retail license and enforcement preventing sales to minors was associated with lower rates of youth and adult initiation of combustible and e-cigarette use.
A strong TRL ordinance will collect an adequate retail license fee to cover the administration of the TRL program, enable regular compliance checks in each store, and impose penalties for violations. I emailed the council members the research article with more details.
We hope that this research can educate and inform your decisions. Please let me know if you have any questions our team may be able to answer.
Chase Kornacki
As an Advocacy and Public Policy Intern with the American Lung Association and a San Diego-based public health advocate working in tobacco prevention, I support the adoption of a comprehensive Tobacco Retail License (TRL) ordinance in the City of Chula Vista. With a mission of saving lives and improving the health of Californians and their lungs, the Lung Association strongly supports measures to protect the next generation from the harms of tobacco addiction.
Each year in California, nearly 40,000 adults die from smoking-related causes, and more than 9,200 youth become new daily smokers. Strengthening local policies like Chula Vista's TRL ordinance is a critical step in reversing these trends. Strong TRL policies are a proven way to reduce youth access to tobacco products and prevent lifelong addiction. Adopting a comprehensive TRL ordinance with these provisions will help protect youth, reduce tobacco-related harm, and support healthier communities in Chula Vista. I urge the City Council to adopt this ordinance to protect Chula Vista youth and adults from nicotine addiction and tobacco-related death and disease.
Hikmat zoura
Dear city council
I have been in the liquor business for almost 4 years and Chula Vista. We are here to support the city. We don’t sell tobacco or alcohol to minors. I have received three letters of recommendation from Chula Vista Police for not selling to minors. I don’t think it’s fair to cancel tobacco license from a Store when it is sold . It’s not fair for the seller and the buyer will not be able to buy that business if he doesn’t have a tobacco license that comes with a purchase I think you should consider that Nancy Yamagata
As a high-school teacher and a child of a smoker, I have seen the horrible impact tobacco products have on a person's health and emotional well being.
Strong tobacco restriction policies have been proven to result in decreased youth access to tobacco/nicotine and subsequent use, and increased success in quitting for people trying to stop smoking. Strong tobacco restrictions also foster a fair business landscape.
Please vote for this ordinance and keep our community safe. king liquor
Dear Mayor and City Council,
As a Chula Vista business owner, I ask that you carefully consider how new regulations may impact small businesses like ours.
We do not support youth tobacco use or illegal sales. We check IDs, train staff, and follow all laws.
Any new rules should protect responsible retailers. Existing compliant businesses should be allowed to transfer ownership, and a grandfathering provision should ensure buyers can obtain tobacco permits. We also oppose the proposed “massage business” enforcement model due to its vagueness and risk of unfair treatment. Instead, consider adding fines to strengthen enforcement.
Finally, when a business is sold, the new owner should start with a clean record.
Please focus enforcement on actual violations and avoid policies that unfairly impact compliant neighborhood businesses.
Sincerely,
Amar Nadem
Laina Delgado Flores
On behalf of the American Lung Association in California, the leading public health organization fighting to reduce and prevent the harmful effects of tobacco use, we express our strong support in the adoption of Chula Vista City's comprehensive Tobacco Retail License program with location restriction provisions.
Hani Marogy
Dear Mayor and City Council,
As a business owner or manager in Chula Vista, I urge you to think carefully about how any new regulations might affect small businesses like ours.
We do not support youth tobacco use or the sale of illegal products, and we work hard to prevent it. We check IDs. We train our staff. We comply with all legal requirements.
Any new rules must protect the responsible retailers who have been serving this community for many years. Existing retailers in good standing should be allowed to sell to a new owner regardless of caps or distance buffers. Please include a grandfathering provision to guarantee that we are able to sell our businesses to a buyer who can obtain a tobacco retail permit.
We also ask you to reject the proposed "massage business" enforcement model. It is too vague and creates too much uncertainty and opportunities for unfair treatment. Instead, we recommend adding fines to the existing penalty structure to generate new revenue for additional inspections.
Finally, when a business is sold, the buyer should start with a clean slate. Any strikes on the seller's record should be wiped clean so that the new owner is not punished for the behavior of the previous owner.
Please focus on enforcement where the real violations occur. Protect responsible retailers who comply with the law. Do not adopt blanket policies that punish neighborhood markets that are doing everything right.
Thank you.
Hani Marogy
Dear Mayor and City Council,
As a business owner or manager in Chula Vista, I urge you to think carefully about how any new regulations might affect small businesses like ours.
We do not support youth tobacco use or the sale of illegal products, and we work hard to prevent it. We check IDs. We train our staff. We comply with all legal requirements.
Any new rules must protect the responsible retailers who have been serving this community for many years. Existing retailers in good standing should be allowed to sell to a new owner regardless of caps or distance buffers. Please include a grandfathering provision to guarantee that we are able to sell our businesses to a buyer who can obtain a tobacco retail permit.
We also ask you to reject the proposed "massage business" enforcement model. It is too vague and creates too much uncertainty and opportunities for unfair treatment. Instead, we recommend adding fines to the existing penalty structure to generate new revenue for additional inspections.
Finally, when a business is sold, the buyer should start with a clean slate. Any strikes on the seller's record should be wiped clean so that the new owner is not punished for the behavior of the previous owner.
Please focus on enforcement where the real violations occur. Protect responsible retailers who comply with the law. Do not adopt blanket policies that punish neighborhood markets that are doing everything right.
Thank you.
Frank shammo
Dear Mayor and City Council,
As a business owner or manager in Chula Vista, I urge you to think carefully about how any new regulations might affect small businesses like ours.
We do not support youth tobacco use or the sale of illegal products, and we work hard to prevent it. We check IDs. We train our staff. We comply with all legal requirements.
Any new rules must protect the responsible retailers who have been serving this community for many years. Existing retailers in good standing should be allowed to sell to a new owner regardless of caps or distance buffers. Please include a grandfathering provision to guarantee that we are able to sell our businesses to a buyer who can obtain a tobacco retail permit.
We also ask you to reject the proposed "massage business" enforcement model. It is too vague and creates too much uncertainty and opportunities for unfair treatment. Instead, we recommend adding fines to the existing penalty structure to generate new revenue for additional inspections.
Finally, when a business is sold, the buyer should start with a clean slate. Any strikes on the seller's record should be wiped clean so that the new owner is not punished for the behavior of the previous owner.
Please focus on enforcement where the real violations occur. Protect responsible retailers who comply with the law. Do not adopt blanket policies that punish neighborhood markets that are doing everything right.
Thank you.
Shatha Louis
Dear Mayor and City Council,
As a business owner or manager in Chula Vista, I urge you to think carefully about how any new regulations might affect small businesses like ours.
We do not support youth tobacco use or the sale of illegal products, and we work hard to prevent it. We check IDs. We train our staff. We comply with all legal requirements.
Any new rules must protect the responsible retailers who have been serving this community for many years. Existing retailers in good standing should be allowed to sell to a new owner regardless of caps or distance buffers. Please include a grandfathering provision to guarantee that we are able to sell our businesses to a buyer who can obtain a tobacco retail permit.
We also ask you to reject the proposed "massage business" enforcement model. It is too vague and creates too much uncertainty and opportunities for unfair treatment. Instead, we recommend adding fines to the existing penalty structure to generate new revenue for additional inspections.
Finally, when a business is sold, the buyer should start with a clean slate. Any strikes on the seller's record should be wiped clean so that the new owner is not punished for the behavior of the previous owner.
Please focus on enforcement where the real violations occur. Protect responsible retailers who comply with the law. Do not adopt blanket policies that punish neighborhood markets that are doing everything right.
Thank you.
Anthony Thweni
Hi my is name Anthony Thweni owner of Jstreet Liqour and gas my family had been in bussiness for 33 years and I would really love if you consider because this hurt my bussiness tremendous Dear Mayor and City Council,
As a business owner or manager in Chula Vista, I urge you to think carefully about how any new regulations might affect small businesses like ours.
We do not support youth tobacco use or the sale of illegal products, and we work hard to prevent it. We check IDs. We train our staff. We comply with all legal requirements.
Any new rules must protect the responsible retailers who have been serving this community for many years. Existing retailers in good standing should be allowed to sell to a new owner regardless of caps or distance buffers. Please include a grandfathering provision to guarantee that we are able to sell our businesses to a buyer who can obtain a tobacco retail permit.
We also ask you to reject the proposed "massage business" enforcement model. It is too vague and creates too much uncertainty and opportunities for unfair treatment. Instead, we recommend adding fines to the existing penalty structure to generate new revenue for additional inspections.
Finally, when a business is sold, the buyer should start with a clean slate. Any strikes on the seller's record should be wiped clean so that the new owner is not punished for the behavior of the previous owner.
Please focus on enforcement where the real violations occur. Protect responsible r Love Chula Vista
I love Chula Vista.
Before you were elected, I reviewed many of your statements, and one thing you all had in common was a commitment to support small businesses.
So I’m asking—how does what you’re doing today reflect that promise?
Because what we are seeing is rising homelessness, slower response times, and serious concerns around leadership in the police department. At the same time, small businesses are facing more fees, more regulations, and more obstacles every year.
From where we stand, it’s becoming harder—not easier—to survive and serve this community.
That doesn’t feel like support. It feels like small businesses are being pushed out.
I ask you to reflect on your commitments and take real action to support the small businesses that keep Chula Vista running.
Thank you.
Roy Mikha
Dear Mayor and City Council,
My name is Roy Mikha, and I’ve been running a business in Chula Vista for over 20 years.
I’m here because I want to understand why it has become so much harder for small businesses to survive in this city.
Over the years, fees have increased, regulations have expanded, and limits have been placed on what we are allowed to sell. For example, there were no tobacco license fees before, and now not only do they exist, but they continue to increase.
At the same time, the permit process has become slower and more complicated. Instead of helping small businesses grow, these changes are making it harder just to stay open.
Let me be clear: we do not support youth tobacco use or illegal sales. We check IDs, train our staff, and follow the law. Responsible retailers should not be treated the same as bad actors.
What is especially concerning is that when a business owner tries to sell, the buyer may not be able to obtain a license. That effectively destroys the value of the business.
Small businesses are the backbone of this community. We are not asking for special treatment—we are asking for fairness and consistency.
I respectfully ask the Council to:
Allow existing, compliant businesses to transfer licenses to new owners regardless of caps or distance restrictions.
Include a grandfathering provision to protect long-standing businesses.
Reject the proposed “massage business” enforcement model, Khadher bayoudh
Dear Mayor and City Council,
As a business owner or manager in Chula Vista, I urge you to think carefully about how any new regulations might affect small businesses like ours.
We do not support youth tobacco use or the sale of illegal products, and we work hard to prevent it. We check IDs. We train our staff. We comply with all legal requirements.
Any new rules must protect the responsible retailers who have been serving this community for many years. Existing retailers in good standing should be allowed to sell to a new owner regardless of caps or distance buffers. Please include a grandfathering provision to guarantee that we are able to sell our businesses to a buyer who can obtain a tobacco retail permit.
We also ask you to reject the proposed "massage business" enforcement model. It is too vague and creates too much uncertainty and opportunities for unfair treatment. Instead, we recommend adding fines to the existing penalty structure to generate new revenue for additional inspections.
Finally, when a business is sold, the buyer should start with a clean slate. Any strikes on the seller's record should be wiped clean so that the new owner is not punished for the behavior of the previous owner.
Please focus on enforcement where the real violations occur. Protect responsible retailers who comply with the law. Do not adopt blanket policies that punish neighborhood markets that are doing everything right.
Thank you.
Elena Scarr
Hello to members of this council. Strengthening the tobacco retail license (TRL) in Chula Vista is in the best interest of the community as it directly impacts the health and well-being of the members of these neighborhoods. As it currently exists, the TRL in Chula Vista does not designate distance limitations for proximity to youth spaces. Studies have shown the growing use of tobacco and nicotine products among youth in recent years. Historically and currently these retailers are more likely to open up in both Black and Brown and LGBTQ+ neighborhoods -- more so than white or non-LGBTQ+ specific neighborhoods. The sheer density of these retailers in neighborhoods impacts the overall use rates of tobacco and nicotine which are higher for people of color and LGBTQ+ people. Strengthening a TRL is considering health of these neighborhoods directly. If there is economic concern regarding the impacts on local retailers and small businesses, it is important to mention strengthening this policy fosters a fair business landscape. With clear expectations and boundaries, retailers are able to operate without the fear of other stores operating outside of guidelines. Thank you for your consideration.
MJ
I support a stronger tobacco retail licensing policy that prioritizes the health and safety of youth and communities living in Chula Vista. Please include a policy that distances smoke shops from schools and other areas where youth can access them, creates caps on the number of licenses to sell tobacco and promotes education on the effects of tobacco within our communities. Thank you.
Sarah Boyer
I support strengthening the City’s Tobacco Retail Licensing ordinance.
Along the Broadway Corridor, there is an overconcentration of smoke shops and other tobacco retailers. A high density of tobacco outlets increases exposure and access, particularly for youth and vulnerable populations, and normalizes tobacco use in ways that undermine public health goals.
The impacts affect the broader community. Neighborhoods with clusters of tobacco retailers often face increased litter, including cigarette waste. This issue is especially important in the context of the City’s efforts to revitalize Broadway through the development of multicultural districts. These districts are intended to create welcoming spaces for residents and visitors. An overconcentration of smoke shops is not conducive to that vision. It creates a less inviting streetscape that detracts from the identity the City is working to build. By improving oversight, the City can support a healthier mix of businesses that better reflects the vitality it seeks to promote on Broadway Avenue.
This ordinance will not harm responsible tobacco retailers financially. Clear and consistent regulations ensure fairness across the industry, so that all retailers operate under the same expectations. This policy is about thoughtful regulation that supports both public health and long-term economic vitality.
Please strengthen the TRL ordinance and take a meaningful step toward creating healthier, more vibrant neighborhoods in Chula Vista Mark O'Connor
I am all for this ordinance so Chula Vista can keep better control over where and how many places people can purchase tobacco products. I am in favor of having more inspections to include undercover operations more often. We need to protect the youth in our community from this needless health hazard.
Acting Police Chief Peak, Deputy City Attorney Carnahan, and Director of Housing and Homelessness Services Kurz gave a presentation on the item.
The following members of the public spoke in support of the item:
Jessica Newmyer, Chula Vista resident
Manuel Andrade, Chula Vista resident
Cynthia Knapp
John Jenkins, Escondido resident
Liz Murphy, Chula Vista resident
Josie Mercado, Chula Vista resident
Izabelle Alvarado, Chula Vista resident
Liani Pichardo, Chula Vista resident
Eric Del Rio, Chula Vista resident
Jesse Nodora, San Diego resident
Aaron Malacura, Chula Vista resident
Jeff Bettger, Chula Vista resident
Isabel Caballero, Chula Vista resident
David Strong, San Diego resident
Andres Lopez, Chula Vista resident
Margaux Stack-Babich, San Diego resident
Jose Perez, Chula Vista resident
Arlety Teresa Perez Beltran, San Ysidro resident
Andy Jose Lopez, San Diego resident
Melanie Mendoza Gasca, San Diego resident
Stephen Davis Baum, San Diego resident
Edith Alcala, Chula Vista resident
Vanessa Quezada, Bonita resident
Adrian Kwiatkowski, San Diego resident
Diana McGawley, Chula Vista resident
Emily Miller, San Diego resident
Janan Muein, El Cajon resident
Ava Irizarry, Chula Vista resident
Yoselyn Barragan
The following members of the public spoke in opposition to the item:
Jeremy Ogul
Jeff Mansour
Tony Konja
Roy Micha
Steven Jarjees
The following members of the public submitted written comments in support of the item:
Ana Simmons
Ceanne Guerra
Riley Steinley
Lora Bumatay
Lynnette Famania
Tina Matthias, representing South Bay Sustainable Communities Chase Kornacki
Nancy Yamagata
Laina Delgado Flores
Elena Scarr
MJ
Sarah Boyer
Mark O'Connor
The following members of the public submitted written comments in opposition to the item:
Michelle Bell, RN
Hikmat Zoura
King Liquor
Hani Marogy
Frank Shammo
Shatha Louis
Anthony Thweni
Love Chula Vista
Roy Mikha
Khadher Bayoudh
Frank Shammo
The City Council provided feedback focused on balancing public health priorities, youth protection, and community safety with support for long-standing, law-abiding small businesses, while preventing further saturation of tobacco outlets within the community.
The meeting was recessed at 7:54 p.m. and reconvened at 8:22 p.m.
8.6 City Boards and Commissions: Place an Ordinance on First Reading Amending the Municipal Code to Implement District-Based Nominations for Certain Boards and Commissions Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - District-Based Commission Seats - 26-0164.pdf
2. Ordinance - District-Based Commission Seats.pdf
3. Attachment 1 - Redline Version of CVMC Updates.pdf
4. Item 8.6 - Board and Comm Nominations - First Reading.pdf Rita Beyers
This is the final comment I will make regarding this change to the ordinance. The concerns I have expressed in person and via public comment still remain.
City Clerk Bigelow spoke regarding the item.
Jorge Marroquin spoke regarding the item.
Rita Byers, Chula Vista resident, submitted written comments in opposition to the item.
Moved by
Deputy Mayor Fernandez
Seconded by
Councilmember Inzunza
To place the below ordinance on first reading, the heading was read, text waived. The motion was carried by the following vote:
Yes (3)
Councilmember Chavez, Councilmember Inzunza, and Deputy Mayor Fernandez No (2)
Mayor McCann, and Councilmember Preciado
Result, Carried (3 to 2)
Item 8.6 heading:
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE CHULA VISTA MUNICIPAL CODE TO IMPLEMENT DISTRICT-BASED NOMINATIONS FOR CERTAIN BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS, AND CLARIFY THE PROCESS FOR REASSIGNMENT OF SEAT DESIGNATIONS WHEN APPOINTMENT PROCESSES ARE ADJUSTED (FIRST READING)
The meeting was recessed at 9:39 p.m. and reconvened at 9:50 p.m.
9. PUBLIC COMMENTS (CONTINUED)
Public Comments:
10. CITY MANAGER’S REPORTS
Public Comments:
10.1 Emergency Communications Campaign Update
Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Emergency Communications Campaign Update.pdf
Chief Communications Officer Cihomsky spoke regarding the item.
11. MAYOR’S REPORTS
Public Comments:
Mayor McCann reported on attendance at recent events and made community announcements.
12. COUNCILMEMBERS’ REPORTS
Public Comments:
Councilmembers reported on attendance at recent events and made community announcements.
13. CITY CLERK'S REPORTS
Public Comments:
There were none.
14. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORTS
Public Comments:
There were none.
15. CLOSED SESSION
Public Comments:
Pursuant to Resolution No. 13706 and City Council Policy No. 346-03, the City Attorney maintains official minutes and records of action taken during closed session.
City Attorney Verdugo announced that the City Council would convene in closed session to discuss the items listed below.
The meeting was recessed at 10:34 p.m. and reconvened in closed session at 10:39 p.m. with all members present.
15.1 Conference with Legal Counsel Regarding Existing Litigation Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c) Public Comments:
Name of case: Bonita Valley Amateur Girls Softball Association, presented on August 15, 2024 Action: No reportable action
15.2 Conference with Legal Counsel Regarding Existing Litigation Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 d(1) Public Comments:
Name of case:
Michael Hamanaka v Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America, et al. , Southern District of California. 26CV1719 LL BJW
Action: No reportable action
16. ADJOURNMENT
Public Comments:
The meeting was adjourned at 11:06 p.m.
Minutes prepared by: Tyshar Turner, Deputy Director, City Clerk Services