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1 CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE COVINA REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY/COVINA PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY/COVINA HOUSING
AUTHORITY JOINT MEETING
MINUTES
July 15, 2025, 7:30 p.m.
125 E. College Street, Covina, California
Council Chamber of City Hall
Councilmembers Present: Councilmember Walter Allen, III Councilmember Patricia Cortez
Councilmember John C. King
Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Hector Delgado
Mayor/Chair Victor Linares
Staff Present:
City Clerk Drew Aleman (Elected Member)
City Treasurer Neil Polzin (Elected Member)
City Manager Chris Marcarello
City Attorney Kevin Ennis
Police Chief Ric Walczak
Community Development Director/Deputy City Manager Brian Lee Parks & Recreation/Library Services Director Lisa Evans Public Works Director Rafael M. Fajardo
Deputy City Manager Angel Carrillo
Chief Deputy City Clerk Fabian Velez
Finance Director Theresa Franke
1 JOINT MEETING -CLOSED SESSION 6:30 PM
CLOSED SESSION - WAS NOT HELD
JOINT MEETING -OPEN SESSION 7:30 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Linares called the Council/Agency/Authority meeting to order at 7:33 p.m. with all Councilmembers present except Councilmember King, who arrived at 7:34 p.m.
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Led by Councilmember Allen.
INVOCATION
Was not held.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
Approve the agenda as presented.
Approved (4 to 0); King Absent
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Rudy Alderte requested that the City Council provide more information on the status of the former Vanllee Hotel & Suites (Vanllee) property, located at 1211 E. Garvey St., and expressed concerns with crimes in the neighborhood next to the property.
George (No last name) inquired as to which building was being proposed to be demolished in Consent Calendar item CC 2. George also commented on Consent Calendar item CC 13, wanting to clarify the definition of "temporary" and requested that the City and Police Department take further action regarding the recent immigration enforcement practices by federal agents.
Richard Pardo stated his concerns with the crossing signals on located on San Bernardino Rd. and Valencia Pl. and Fourth Ave. and the new traffic signal being placed on Badillo St. and the potential traffic bottleneck it can create. He also requested that the City progress with additional crosswalks on Armel Dr. intersecting Puente Ave. and Badillo St.
Chuck Bentson expressed his concerns with the recent sale of the Vanllee property.
Neil Polzin commented on Consent Calendar item CC 13 concerning its placement on the agenda and the proposed partnering organization. He also commented on Consent Calendar item CC 8 and requested that the City Council allocate the money for the proposed increase to the liability fund to community programs for the recent immigration enforcement. Lastly, he requested that the City include sensory zones to City Council meetings and other City events. 2 1
Mike Aguilar commented on Consent Calendar items: CC 9, requesting the funding used for the proposed alleyway repaving be reallocated to parking enforcement, CC 5, requesting the funding used for the proposed trash enclosure be reallocated for additional Police Department staff and to keep the current available parking, and CC 13, expressing his opposition to the item.
Gilberto Lopez commented on the need for the Police Depai tiiient to increase enforcement on vehicles used by federal agents that are not in compliance with current traffic laws.
Susan Zermeno thanked the City for the efforts made with Consent Calendar item CC 13 and the updates being made to the City website but requested temporary assistance and additional action be taken for citizens concerned with the recent immigration enforcement by federal agents along with increased dialogue.
Barbara Baker stated her support for the enforcement of laws against those who break them and asked the City Council to provide information regarding the Vanllee property as available while being proactive on the matter. She also shared a personal experience with the Vanllee property and the buses seen on site.
Camila Rosero expressed her appreciation for Consent Calendar item CC 13 and also requested that the City Council take further action mirroring the City of Pasadena in supporting Senate Bill SB 805.
Dr. Tammy Johnson noted her concerns with City Council responses to public comments, acknowledged the dialogue provided by the Police Department after the July 1, 2025, City Council meeting and recommended that the City create additional events for dialogue to inform residents of what legal actions can be done regarding the recent immigration enforcement. Dr. Johnson also requested that a plan be made to address child safety while attending school.
COUNCIL/AGENCY/AUTHORITY COMMENTS
Councilmember Allen stated his opposition for apartments to be located at the Vanllee property, mentioned the State's efforts to increase affordable housing units, and ensured the community that information will be provided. He also expressed his support for Consent Calendar item CC 13 and the practical solutions it provides while clarifying requirements needed to receive assistance.
Councilmember King also stated his opposition for apartments to be located at the Vanllee property and the need for an investigation into comments made regarding work being completed at the site without permits.
Councilmember Cortez echoed the concerns raised regarding the Vanllee property. She also requested that the Transportation & Mobility Advisory Commission begin reviewing the concerns raised during Public Comments for crossing guards and crosswalks. Councilmember Cortez then requested to adjourn in memory of Paul Avila, founder of the nonprofit Pauly's Project.
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado also echoed comments against the Vanllee property being converted to apartments and noted it is not currently zoned for apartments. He also thanked those who spoke during public comments, commented on the need to abide by laws by everyone, and expressed his frustration with the current practices by federal agents regarding immigration enforcement.
Mayor Linares thanked those who spoke during public comments for bringing additional questions and suggestions, such as additional dialogue on citizen rights with the Covina Police Department, regarding Consent Calendar item CC 13 and assured the community that the City will work as quick as it can on the matter. He also thanked the City Administration for their efforts to place the item on the agenda with short notice. Lastly, Mayor Linares thanked the Parks & Recreation 3 1
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Department, Police Department, and Covina Rotary Club for their hard work on the recent Fourth of July event.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
City Manager Marcarello provided further information to the City Council of the recent sale of the Vanllee Hotel & Suites and informed the public that any information the City receives will be provided to members of the community.
CONSENT CALENDAR
CC 1. Payment of Demands
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
Approve Payment of Demands in the amount of $2,818,516.51.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 2. Covina Recreation Village Project — Project No. P2202 — Replacement of State of California Budget Act of 2021 (SB 129) Library Grant Funds with Measure CC Funds in the Amount of $251,952.93 for Use Towards Demolition of Existing Easterly Building
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
Approve Resolution CC 2025-84 amending the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Capital Improvement Program Budget, appropriating Measure CC Fund — Fund Balance in the amount of $251,952.93 in lieu of State of California Budget Act of 2021 (SB 129) Library Grant Funds for use towards the Demolition of Existing Easterly Building.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 3. Resolution Approving Submission of an Application to the Land Water Conservation Fund Grant Program to Facilitate the Covina Recreation Village Pedestrian Bridge/Access Facility Project
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
Adopt Resolution CC 2025-80.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 4. Second Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with CIR, Inc.
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
Approve Second Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with CIR, Inc.
Approved (5 to 0)
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CC 5.
Trash Enclosure Project — Covina Police Department — Project No. P2604 — Award of Contract to FS Contractors, Inc. in the Amount of $113,000 Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
1. Approve plans and specifications for the Trash Enclosure Project — Covina Police Department — Project No. P2604;
2. Award a contract for the Trash Enclosure Project — Covina Police Department — Project No. P2604 to FS Contractors, Inc. as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder in the amount of $113,000 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract;
3. Authorize a project contingency amount of $2,000 to cover the cost of unforeseen construction expenses; and
4. Award a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) to CEJ Engineers, Inc for Construction Management & Inspection Services for an amount not -to - exceed $35,000 and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 6. Certification of 2025 Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) for the City of Covina's Sanitary Sewer System
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
1. Adopt Resolution CC 2025-90 Certifying and Approving the Sewer System Management Plan.
2. Accept and certify the 2025 Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) for the City of Covina's Sanitary Sewer System and direct City staff to upload and certify the SSMP within the California Integrated Water Quality System Portal.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 7. Professional Services Agreement with MasterCorp Services LLC for Janitorial Services
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
Authorize the City Manager or his designee to sign an agreement with MasterCorp Services LLC to provide janitorial services for the Covina Police Department.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 8. Increase 2024-25 Budgeted Appropriations for Public Liability Fund Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
Adopt Resolution CC 2025-89, Amending the 2024-25 Operating Budget Appropriating $715,000 from the Public Liabilities Fund (7370) Fund Balance for Legal Services, Liability Claims and Other Related Expenses.
Approved (5 to 0)
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CC 9. City -Wide Alleyway Resurfacing Project — Project No. P2605 — Award of Contract to G.M. Sager Construction Co., Inc. in the Amount of $82,945 Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
1. Approve plans and specifications for the City -Wide Alleyway Resurfacing Project — Project No. P2605;
2. Award a contract for the City -Wide Alleyway Resurfacing Project — Project No. P2605 to G.M. Sager Construction Co, Inc. as the lowest responsive and responsible, bidder in the amount of $82,945 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract; and
3. Authorize a contingency amount of $8,294.50 (approximately 10%) to cover any unforeseen construction expenses.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 10. Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with EC + Associates Engineering, Inc. for Design Engineering Services Related to the Cypress Water Main Replacement Project
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) between the City of Covina and EC + Associates Engineering, Inc. in an amount not -to -exceed $75,000 for Design Engineering Services Related to the Cypress Water Main Replacement Project; and
2. Authorize a $10,000 contingency balance for use towards design engineering services, if needed.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 11. San Bernardino Road Resurfacing Project — Project No. P2602 — Award of Contract to Gentry Brothers, Inc. in the Amount of $956,835.40 Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
1. Approve plans and specifications for the San Bernardino Road Resurfacing Project — Project No. P2602;
2. Award a contract for the San Bernardino Road Resurfacing Project — Project No. P2602 to Gentry Brothers, Inc. as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder in the amount of $956,835.40 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract;
3. Award a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) to CEJ Engineers, Inc. for Construction Management and Inspection Services for an amount not -to - exceed $140,000 and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement;
4. Authorize a contingency amount of $103,164.60 (approximately 10% of contract amount) for any unforeseen construction expenses; and
5. Adopt Resolution CC 2025-85 amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Program to add the "Frontage Median Bioswale Installation Project — Project No. P2606" and appropriate $50,000 in 6 1
Measure W — Municipal Funds to be used for Bioswale and Drought Tolerant Landscape Construction.
Approved (5 to 0)
CC 12. Request for Approval of an Additional Full -Time Information Technology Technician Position
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Allen
That the City Council adopt Resolution CC 2025-91 to Approve an Additional Full -Time Information Technology Technician Position.
Approved (5 to 0)
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM PULLED FOR DISCUSSION
CC 13. Temporary Community Support Program
City Manager Marcarello provided the staff report and background on the item.
Councilmember Allen reaffirmed his support for Project 29:11 and noted the lack of communication from federal agents to local agents.
Councilmember King thanked the community for raising their concerns and opening dialogue on the topic. He also thanked State Senator Susan Rubio and State Assemblymember Blanca Rubio for their assistance in being able to locate resources for the City and thanked the County and local partners for their assistance.
He emphasized that this is the first step for the City but not the last.
Councilmember Cortez thanked those who spoke regarding the item and provided background on her prior experience working with immigration casework as well as the need to have qualified partners in sensitive topics. She also stated her support for partnering locally to create a trusted environment. Councilmember Cortez then encouraged taking the dialogue to the federal level.
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado added to Councilmember Cortez's comments regarding bringing opinions on the issue of immigration enforcement to the federal level and reiterated his support of the community.
Mayor Linares spoke on the need for action in place of promises that cannot be kept.
City Attorney Ennis provided updates on court cases related to immigration enforcement.
Police Chief Walczak also provided information on Covina Police Department's guidelines for conducting police work and the challenges faced between the local and federal level regarding enforcement.
Dora Gomez of Project 29:11 provided information on the resources available through the nonprofit and the programs offered.
In response to questions from Mayor Linares and Councilmember King, City Manager Marcarello informed the City Council of the services proposed to be funded and expected the proposed current time frame for the services. 7 1
Councilmember Allen proposed additional resources that the City could examine.
Mayor Linares assured the community that more resources will be provided if needed and viable and that information will be provided when available.
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember Cortez
That the City Council authorize the City Manager to enter into temporary partnerships with the listed non-profit organizations to provide free/low-cost supportive services to Covina -based families and individuals impacted by federal immigration enforcement activities.
Approved (5 to 0)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
PH 1. Consideration of Resolutions Authorizing Annexation of Territory to City of Covina Community Facilities District No. 2007-1 (Public Services) (Annexation No. 38), and to Ca11 and Hold a Special Election (1207 West Badillo Street, Covina)
Staff Recommendation:
1. City Council to open the public hearing and consider public testimony and close the public hearing; and
2. Adopt Resolution CC 2025-81, authorizing the annexation of territory to Community Facilities District No. 2007-1 (Annexation No. 38) and authorizing the levy of a special tax and submitting the levy of tax to the qualified electors; and
3. Adopt Resolution CC 2025-82, calling a special election and submitting to the voters of Annexation No. 38 of City of Covina Community Facilities District No. 2007-1 (Public Services), propositions regarding the annual levy of special taxes within Annexation No. 38 to finance public services, and the establishment of an appropriations limit; and
4. Adopt Resolution CC 2025-83 making certain findings, certifying the results of an election and adding property to Community Facilities District No. 2007-1 (Public Services), Annexation No. 38.
The agenda report was provided by Management Analyst Alice Leung.
Mayor Linares opened the public hearing.
There were no public comments, nor did anyone wish to submit a written protest.
Mayor Linares closed the public hearing.
City Clerk Aleman confirmed that no written protest had been received and therefore, a majority did not exist.
Mayor Linares had announced that because a majority protest did not exist, it was appropriate for the City Council to consider resolutions annexing the territory and calling a special election within the annexation area.
8 Motion made by: Councilmember King
Seconded by: Councilmember Cortez
1. Adopt Resolution CC 2025-81, authorizing the annexation of territory to Community Facilities District No. 2007-1 (Annexation No. 38) and authorizing the levy of a special tax and submitting the levy of tax to the qualified electors; and
2. Adopt Resolution CC 2025-82, calling a special election and submitting to the voters of Annexation No. 38 of City of Covina Community Facilities District No. 2007-1 (Public Services), propositions regarding the annual levy of special taxes within Annexation No. 38 to finance public services, and the establishment of an appropriations limit
Approved (5 to 0)
City Clerk Aleman confirmed that the ballots had been received and at the Mayor's request proceeded to canvass the ballots.
City Clerk Aleman completed the canvassing of the ballots and reported that:
• On Proposition A, one (1) vote was cast in support of the proposition and 0 votes were cast in opposition to the proposition; therefore, Proposition A was approved with 100% vote in favor.
• On Proposition B, one (1) vote was cast in support of the proposition and 0 votes were cast in opposition to the proposition; therefore, Proposition B was approved with 100% vote in favor.
Motion made by: Mayor Pro Tem Delgado
Seconded by: Councilmember King
Adopt Resolution CC 2025-83 making certain findings, certifying the results of an election and adding property to Community Facilities District No. 2007-1 (Public Services), Annexation No. 38.
Approved (5 to 0)
PH 2. Proposal for a 3,443 square -foot Cannabis Retail Establishment Mayor Linares announced that he will be recusing himself from Public Hearing items PH 2, PH 3, and PH 4, due to deriving income in proximity to an applicant's location.
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado opened the public hearing.
The agenda report was provided by Assistant Planner Eduardo Lomeli.
Representatives of the applicant, Rilano Covina, Inc., provided more information on the item and responded to an inquiry regarding delivery vehicle anonymity.
Neil Polzin thanked Mayor Linares for his recusal and requested that the City Council reject applications with potential conflicts of interest.
Jacinto Gomez requested more information regarding the proposed location's security and monitoring.
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Representatives of the applicant responded to the questions regarding the proposed location's security and monitoring.
Councilmember King stated his excitement and thankfulness for the almost completed long term project and echoed the City's motivation behind the cannabis program.
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Cortez also provided additional information on security concerns and the City's process for its cannabis program.
Councilmember Allen provided his position regarding cannabis retail establishments.
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado thanked City staff who worked to implement the cannabis program.
City Manager Marcarello read the Ordinance title into the record.
Motion made by: Councilmember Cortez
Seconded by: Councilmember King
City Council consideration of the following:
1. City Council Adoption of Resolution CC 2025-87, conditionally approving Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 25-003, Site Plan Review (SPR) 25-032, Development Agreement and determination of exemption from CEQA: a request to approve a Cannabis Retail establishment ("Rilano"), expand an existing 2,137 square -feet commercial retail space an additional 1,306 square feet, totaling 3,443 square feet of cannabis retail space, and associated tenant improvements, within the Mixed -Use Overlay District (MUOD) / Commercial (Regional or Community Shopping Center) C -3A zone, located at 216 E Rowland St, Covina, CA, 91723 (APN: 8451-001- 019) and making a finding of exemption under CEQA; and
2. Waive full reading, read by title only, and introduce Ordinance 25-07 entitled, "An Ordinance of the City of Covina approving a development agreement between Rilano Covina Inc, and the City of Covina, related to the approval of a 3,443 square foot cannabis retail establishment within the Mixed -Use Overlay District (MUOD) / Commercial (Regional or Community Shopping Center) C -3A zone, located at 216 East Rowland Street, (APN: 8451-001-019) and making a finding of exemption under CEQA".
Approved (3 to 1); Allen No; Linares Abstain
PH 3. Proposal for a 3,956 square -foot Cannabis Retail Establishment Mayor Pro Tem Delgado opened the public hearing.
The agenda report was provided by Assistant Planner Eduardo Lomeli.
Questions from the City Council included how much control the City has to be able to cease operations for businesses not operating to City standards, controls on the sale of the cannabis permits, and time limits for businesses to open. 10 1
There were no public comments.
Representatives of the applicant, Zen GW Cali Partners, LLC, provided more information on the item and thanked City staff for their work on the item.
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado closed the public hearing.
City Manager Marcarello read the Ordinance title into the record.
Motion made by: Councilmember King
Seconded by: Councilmember Cortez
City Council consideration of the following:
1. City Council Adoption of Resolution CC 2025-88, approving Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 25-004 and Site Plan Review (SPR) 25-039, and determination of exemption from CEQA, to approve a cannabis retail establishment ("Zen Garden "), in a 3,956 square -foot commercial tenant space and associated interior tenant improvements, within the Covina Town Center Specific Plan (CTCSP) Mixed Use (MU) Zone, located at 125 S Citrus Ave, Covina, CA, 91723 (APN: 8444-001-018), and making a finding of exemption under CEQA; and
2. Waive full reading, read by title only, and introduce Ordinance 25-08 entitled, "An Ordinance of the City of Covina approving a development agreement between Zen GW Cali Partners LLC, and the City of Covina, related to approval of a 3,956 square foot cannabis retail establishment within the Covina Town Center Specific Plan (CTCSP) Mixed Use (MU) zone located at 125 South Citrus Avenue (APN 8444-001-018) and making a finding of exemption under CEQA".
Approved (3 to 1); Allen No; Linares Abstain
PH 4. Proposal for a 4,600 square -foot Cannabis Microbusiness Retail Establishment
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado opened the public hearing.
The agenda report was provided by Assistant Planner Eduardo Lomeli.
Representatives of the applicant provided a PowerPoint presentation on the proposed business.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Delgado closed the public hearing.
In response to inquiries by Councilmember King, representatives of Stiiizy Covina, LLC, confirmed that the lobby will be included in the floor plan and provided more information on the services provided by a microbusiness.
Councilmember Allen emphasized the need for security.
City Manager Marcarello read the Ordinance title into the record.
Motion made by: Councilmember King
Seconded by: Councilmember Cortez
11 City Council consideration of the following:
1. City Council Adoption of Resolution CC 2025-86, conditionally approving: Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 25-001 and Site Plan Review (SPR) 25-026, and making a determination of exemption from CEQA, to approve a cannabis microbusiness retail establishment ("STIIIZY"), in conjunction with a manufacturing and distribution use, on a 4,600 square - foot commercial tenant space and associated interior tenant improvements, within the PCD (Planned Community Development) / M-1 (Light Manufacturing) zone, located at 754 E Arrow Hwy, Covina, Ca, 91722 (APN: 8405-003-032), and making a finding of exemption under CEQA; and
2. Waive full reading, read by title only, and introduce Ordinance 25-06 entitled, "An Ordinance of the City of Covina approving a Development Agreement between STIIIZY Covina Inc, and the City of Covina, related to the approval of a 4,600 square foot cannabis microbusiness retail establishment within the PCD (Planned Community Development) / M-1 (Light Manufacturing) Zone, located at 754 East Arrow Highway (APN:
8405-003-032); and making a finding of exemption under CEQA." Approved (3 to 1); Allen No; Linares Abstain
ADJOURNMENT
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At 9:43 p.m., the Covina City Council/Successor Agency to the Covina Redevelopment Agency/Covina Public Financing Authority/Covina Housing Authority adjourned in memory of Paul Avila to its next regular meeting of the Council/Agency/Authority scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., for closed session and 7:30 p.m., for open session in the Council Chamber located inside of City Hall, 125 East College Street, Covina, California, 91723. abian Ve/" hi e)
'Deputy City Clerk
Victor Linares, May Cha.
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