CITY OF DUARTE
Minutes of the REGULAR JOINT MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/DUARTE COMMUNITY FACILITIES
FINANCING AUTHORITY
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
6:00 PM - Closed Session
7:00 PM — Regular Session
6:00 PM CLOSED SESSION
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Martin Del Campo called the open session to order at 6:05 p.m.
Councilmembers Present: Finlay, Lewis, Truong, Garcia, Calderon, Kang, Martin Del Campo Councilmembers Absent:
Staff Present: Brian Villalobos, City Manager
Thai Viet Phan, City Attorney
Frances Jimenez, City Clerk
Brianna Solis, Deputy City Clerk
2. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
Moved by Councilmember Finlay, seconded by Councilmember Garcia, and carried by the following vote of the City Council to adopt the agenda.
AYES: FINLAY, LEWIS, TRUONG, GARCIA, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
3. PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
None.
4. CLOSED SESSION
The City Council recessed into closed session at 6:05 p.m. to discuss the following:
A. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Pursuant to Government Code Section54957(b) Title: City Manager CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR - The Closed Session is authorized by the Government Code Section 54957.6(a).
AGENCY NEGOTIATOR: Thai Viet Phan, City Attorney.
UNREPRESENTED EMPLOYEE: City Manager Brian Villalobos
7:00 PM OPEN SESSION
5. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Martin Del Campo called the open session to order at 7:12 p.m.
Councilmembers Present: Finlay, Lewis, Truong, Garcia, Calderon, Kang, Martin Del Campo Councilmembers Absent: None
Staff Present: Brian Villalobos, City Manager
Thai Viet Phan, City Attorney
Kristen Petersen, Assistant City Manager / Director of Administrative Services
Lary Bed, Director of rubic satery Sentiment
Alyssa Rico, Recreation Manager
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Andres Rangel, Assistant to the City Manager
Frances Jimenez, City Clerk
Brianna Solis, Deputy City Clerk
6. PLEDGE TO THE FLAG
The flag salute was led by Nuhaa Mohammad.
7. CITY ATTORNEY CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Phan announced that no reportable action was taken.
8. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - SPECIAL ITEMS
None.
9. SPECIAL ITEMS
A. Mayor's Youth Council Update
Victoria Ramirez and Elisa Ramos gave an update on recent and upcoming Mayor's Youth Council events.
In response to questions asked by the City Council, Victoria Ramirez and Elisa Ramos confirmed that the Mayor's Youth Council scholarship application deadline is May 18, that two winners will share the $1,000 award, and provided details regarding the award ceremony.
The City Council inquired whether discretionary funds could be used to increase the $1,000 award.
City Attorney Phan indicated she will review the policy and report back.
B. City of Hope Volunteer Recognition
The City Council recognized Sharyn Godfrey and Jack Hunter for their volunteer service at the City of Hope; expressed appreciation to all City of Hope volunteers; and acknowledged Rosa Holguin for her work as a donor center volunteer.
The City Council further expressed continued appreciation and noted interest in participating in volunteer efforts in the future.
C. Public Safety Department Update
Director Breceda reported a 15.9% increase in Part I crimes compared to the previous year, primarily attributed to larceny thefts, including thefts from vehicle and retail theft. He stated that the department is addressing this trend through coordinated special operations with the District Attorney's Office. These efforts involve investigators working alongside retail security staff to carry out undercover operations aimed at identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting offenders to the law's fullest effect. He noted that these operations have been effective in reducing and stabilizing Part I crime levels. Director Breceda also reported the implementation of specialized operations to address vehicle-related crimes. The goal is to identify geographic and time-based trends, with deputies and portable camera systems to patrol affected areas. While arrests have been limited, he indicated there has been a decrease in these incidents, and additional operations are planned for the coming months.
He further discussed the riverbed operations, noting that arrests for trespassing have been made when individuals decline offered resources and services. He stated that these efforts have proven effective and will continue. Additionally, Director Breceda reported the launch of educational outreach on pedestrian and e-bike safety. The Crime Prevention Specialist and School Resource Deputy are visiting campuses to teach on new e-bike ordinances and safety precautions. He noted positive feedback from these efforts, particularly from the Royal Oaks Campus. Lastly, Code Enforcement officers are actively patrolling the Donald and Bernice Watson Trail, issuing warning notices and providing education regarding e-bike ordinances.
In response to the City Council's questions, Director Breceda announced an increase in population at the riverbed, including the removal of individuals from the area; noted that coverage remains challenging due to restricted access related to endangered vegetation, stated that the department is coordinating with the Army Corps of Engineers; and reported an increase of 13 crimes, with 95 reported this year compared to 82 last year.
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The City Council relayed concerns regarding e-bike usage, including the signage displaying regulations; asked about options to demonstrate enforcement of the 15-mph limit; and suggested the use of social media to remind the community about the regulations. Director Breceda acknowledged the concerns, stated that signage and feedback displays are being explored, and agreed that social media outreach will be beneficial.
The City Council asked about community response to warnings and whether residents have been receptive. Director Breceda reported that the community has generally been receptive, though some youth operating faster e-motor bikes have been less responsive.
The City Council asked whether individuals receiving warnings are given a specific date when citations will begin. Director Breceda stated that exact dates are not provided, but individuals are informed that enforcement will follow the educational program.
The City Council thanked the City staff for their efforts and asked whether the trail could be designated strictly for pedal bikes.
Director Breceda shared that the Commission has reviewed regulatory options and provided their recommendation in the ordinance, and noted that the City Council may impose further restrictions if wanted.
The City Council indicated they would continue to monitor the situation and asked about parental responsibility for e-bike violations involving minors.
Director Breceda confirmed that parents are responsible for fines and noted that the department is exploring an option to provide education in lieu of fines, as well as the distribution of helmets.
10. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
Joanna Gee, Duarte Library, announced upcoming library events.
Assistant to the City Manager Rangel announced upcoming city events.
The City Council announced additional upcoming city events.
11. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
12. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - CONSENT CALENDAR
None.
13. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Motion to read all Resolutions and Ordinances presented for consideration by Title only and waive further reading (CC/HA/FA).
B. Approve absence(s) of City Councilmember(s) from the City Council meeting.
C. Approval of Minutes - April 14, 2026 Special and Regular Meeting (CC/HA/FA).
D. Approval of Warrants - April 28, 2026 (CC/HA/FA).
E. Receive and File the Public Safety Department Update.
F. Receive and File the Strategic Plan Update.
G. Receive and File the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report.
H. Acceptance of the Notice of Completion: Fiscal Year 25-26 Citywide Striping and Marking Project No. 26-1 for Chrisp Company in the amount of $83,184.50 and approval of a budget amendment to Safe Routes to Schools (SRTS) in the amount of $2,000.13.
Moved by Councilmember Finlay, seconded by Councilmember Lewis, and carried by the following vote City Council April 28, 2026 Page | 3
of the City Council to adopt items 13A-13H of the Consent Calendar.
AYES: FINLAY, LEWIS, TRUONG, GARCIA, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
14. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION
None.
15. PUBLIC HEARINGS - NONE
16. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - BUSINESS ITEMS
None.
17. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Presentation by MADIA Regarding Upcoming Broadband Project Assistant to the City Manager Rangel introduced the regional MADIA project; provided background on its actions; and noted that the recommended action was to receive and file.
Brenda Trainor, owner of Frontier Trail Strategies, presented an overview of regional broadband services, highlighting the project's goals, key partners, and the region's shared identity. She explained she founded the company in the belief that the region is underserved and deserving of improved broadband services.
The project initially began in the City of Monrovia with support from a California Public Utility Commission Local Area Technical Assistance grant. It later expanded through the involvement of Telecom Law Firm and the MADIA Tech Launch devised from Monrovia, Arcadia, Duarte, Inrwindale, Azusa, and Glendora, and eventually including Bradbury due to its geographic proximity. Trainor outlined several goals including identifying barriers to broadband access, exploring new opportunities, promoting regional collaboration, assessing regulatory frameworks, encouraging industry engagement, and improving service quality and engagement.
The City Council thanked Brenda Trainor for conducting this work; stated that the biggest feedback they receive from the community is not having enough broadband options, and announced this project is a great step in getting the City there.
Discussion followed regarding the City Council's view that the needs of the foothill communities differ from those of the city and the growth of Artificial Intelligence will continue to expand. The City Council also noted that Fiber infrastructure remains essential.
Per questions made by the City Council, Trainor explained that the objective is to understand why industry providers are not delivering the level of service the region seeks, whether the region needs to better position itself to engage this complex, multi-layered industry, and what would be required for providers to expand service into additional cities. She clarified that the project is not intended to design a new network, but rather to convene stakeholders, foster dialogue, and identify opportunities collaboratively.
Addressing additional Council questions, Trainor stated that she intends to engage with alternative providers, such as T-Mobile, emphasizing that the primary challenge is bringing providers to the table. She noted that she has met with staff and councilmembers from the other six cities, reviewed municipal codes, and coordinated with IT and public works departments to identify commonalities. She confirmed that outreach will include both new and existing companies interested in deploying fiber, with the goal of The City Council thanked Brenda Trainor for spearheading this project and affirmed the huge service it's doing for the those in the foothill community.
Moved by Councilmember Finlay, seconded by Councilmember Lewis, and carried by the following vote of the City Council to receive and file the MADIA Broadband Project Presentation.
AYES: FINLAY, LEWIS, TRUONG, GARCIA, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT:
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SECTION 53232.3
Assistant City Manager/Director of Administrative Services Petersen explained that the budget workshop binder was provided to the City Council to allow an opportunity to review the material; noted that she included the CIP presentation for reference; and welcomed any questions and reminded attendees of the workshop schedule.
City Manager Villalobos reminded everyone about the State of the City event; noted the upcoming budget meeting; and shared that dinner will be provided on Tuesday, with light snacks available on Monday for the State of the City.
Councilmember Garcia reported that he attended a DYAC Duarte Dogs baseball game; commended the team's players, Daniel Gutierrez and David Oropeza; shared the story of Carlota Loera; and invited the community to attend the State of the School and State of the City events.
Councilmember Calderon encouraged everyone to attend the community to attend the State of the School and State of the City events.
Councilmember Finlay urged the community to read the annual report brochures from the Sanitation District; informed that the Sanitation District serves 5.5 million people, 850 square miles and 78 cities; shared that she visited Gene's Grinders; and reported her attendance at CArts' Season Finale showcase.
Councilmember Lewis expressed his pride in the DYAC baseball teams and shared how he was part of a team growing up.
Councilmember Truong reported he attended the San Gabriel Council of Governments Governing Board meeting; encouraged the youth to continue showing their talents; noted the strong social media attention surrounding Gene's Grinders grand opening; and thanked staff for showing their support during Gene's Grinders ribbon cutting.
Mayor Martin Del Campo reported she attended the Sanitation District meeting with Councilmember
19. ADJOURNMENT
Aera, and thar labo adjourned the meting in memory of lary Daines, Am Fileshman, Carlota See De
Tera Martin Del Campo, Mayor
Frances C. limeres
Frances Jimenez, City Clerk
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