CITY OF DUARTE
Minutes of the REGULAR JOINT MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/DUARTE COMMUNITY FACILITIES
FINANCING AUTHORITY
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
7:00 PM — Regular Session
7:00 PM OPEN SESSION
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Martin Del Campo called the open session to order at 7:07 p.m.
Councilmembers Present: Lewis, Truong, Calderon, Kang, Tra Martin Del Campo Councilmembers Absent: Finlay, Garcia
Staff Present: Brian Villalobos, City Manager
Thai Viet Phan, City Attorney
Kristen Petersen, Assistant City Manager / Director of Administrative Services
Larry Breceda, Director of Public Safety Services
Manuel Enriquez, Director of Parks and Recreation
Andres Rangel, Assistant to the City Manager
Frances Jimenez, City Clerk
Brianna Solis, Deputy City Clerk
Stephanie Sandoval, Public Works Manager
Kaden Espino, Assistant Civil Engineer
2. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
Moved by Councilmember Lewis, seconded by Councilmember Calderon, and carried by the following vote of the City Council to adopt the agenda.
AYES: LEWIS, TRUONG, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: FINLAY, GARCIA
3. PLEDGE TO THE FLAG
The flag salute was led by Melissa Sanchez Quintero.
4. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - SPECIAL ITEMS
None.
5. SPECIAL ITEMS
A. Public Safety Department Update
Director Breceda reported a 22.3% year-to-date increase in Part 1 crimes compared to 2025; discussed ongoing efforts to implement community education initiatives and conduct specialized saturation patrols in high-targeted areas; indicated that these efforts have contributed to reductions in Part 1 crimes, however, criminal activity has shifted dates and times; emphasized the Department's canvassing program, with special assignment deputies and community service officers developing investigative leads following reported crimes, citing a recent theft case as an example of its effectiveness and underscoring the consequences of committing a crime within the City. In addition, Director Breceda reported that crime rates remain 25.4% lower than 2021 levels, reflecting a downward trend despite a slight increase over the past year; shared that the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department received grant funding to support DUI saturation patrols; and acknowledged the positive feedback regarding the two additional Neighborhood Watch meetings held in May and thanked City Council for their attendance. Lastly, he reported an unofficial increase in the homeless population from four individuals to six this past month, as well as increased activity within the riverbed and stated that the saturation patrols in these areas continue and City Council June 23, 2026 Page | 1
are conducted on alternating schedules to enhance enforcement effectiveness.
Per questions asked by City Council, Director Breceda shared that there has been increased homeless activity around the trains due to the FIFA World Cup; stated that much of the activity originated from outside the City; noted that individuals entering the City are generally not remaining in the area; and explained that this has contributed to the increase in observed foot traffic. In response to additional questions, Director Breceda reported that surveillance cameras are already installed within the targeted zones; noted funding has been requested in the budget to install and modify additional cameras; and stated that the City's current priority is to reduce vehicle-related crimes before repositioning surveillance cameras.
The City Council acknowledged the increase in homeless-related activity but noted that it does not appear to be reoccurring; expressed appreciation for the efforts of City staff; and encouraged residents to keep valuables out of plain sight in their vehicles.
6. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
Joanna Gee, Duarte Library, announced upcoming library events. The City Council expressed excitement about the upcoming library events.
Assistant to the City Manager Rangel announced upcoming city events.
7. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Public Works Manager Sandoval introduced the City's new Assistant Civil Engineer, Kaden Espino.
Dialogue followed with the City Council welcoming Assistant Civil Engineer Espino's to the City of Duarte.
Russell Berry shared a personal story about his youth; announced that he is establishing a chess club and poetry night at Pamela Park; and highlighted the positive impact these activities have on local youth and the community.
8. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - CONSENT CALENDAR
None.
9. 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 - June 9, 2026 Regular Meeting (CC/HA/FA).
D. Approval of Warrants - June 23, 2026 (CC/HA/FA).
E. Receive and File the Public Safety Department Update.
F. Receive and File the Strategic Plan Update.
G. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 26-05.
H. Acceptance of the Notice of Completion: Fiscal Year 25-26 CDBG ADA Curb Ramps Project No. 26-14, CDBG Project No. 602731-25 in the amount of $128,052.00.
1. Adoption of the City Street Pole Banner Policy.
1. Approval of Amendment No 1 to the Information Technology Service Agreement with Maxtreme Inc.
K. Approval of Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Year-End Appropriation Adjustments to the General Fund, Proposition A, Proposition C, Measure R annual budget.
L. Approval of City Council Expenses.
Moved by Councilmember Calderon, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Kang, and carried by the following vote City Council June 23, 2026 Page | 2
of the City Council to adopt items 9A-9L of the Consent Calendar.
AYES: LEWIS, TRUONG, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: FINLAY, GARCIA
10. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION
None.
11. PUBLIC HEARINGS - NONE
12. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - BUSINESS ITEMS
None.
13. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program: A Resolution Approving Participation in the Los Angeles Urban County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program for the period July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2030
Tina Gall, LDM Associates, Inc., Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Consultant announced the request for the City to continue its participation in the Los Angeles Urban County CDBG Program; noted the past practices of Los Angeles County and cities that fall within the Los Angeles Urban County; reiterated the request for the City to continue its three-year participation with an effective date of July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2030; and highlighted that the City will enter into a cooperation agreement with the Los Angeles County Development Authority.
In response to questions made by City Council, CDBG Consultant Gall explained that CBDG funding generally decreases 2% annually; anticipated that the City will receive $110,000 for Fiscal Year 2026-27, effective July 1, 2026, with final allocations to be awarded in the spring; and noted the continued decline in funding. In addition to more questions, she explained that increases beyond the annual allocation are uncommon but may occur though the redistribution of unspent funds and noted that annual allocations are determined by Los Angeles County and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Moved by Councilmember Lewis, seconded by Councilmember Truong, and carried by the following vote of the City Council to 1) Adopt Resolution No. 26-23 approving continued participation in the Los Angeles Urban County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program by entering a three-year Cooperation Agreement with the County of Los Angeles effective July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2030; 2) Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute all necessary contract documents with the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) in a form approved by the City Attorney; and, 3) Authorize adjustments due to changes in CDBG Program requirements and/or as needed due to programmatic interpretations by LACDA.
AYES: LEWIS, TRUONG, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: FINLAY, GARCIA
B. Second Amendment to the City Manager Employment Agreement City Attorney Phan provided background information on the original agreement approved in June 2023 stated that the proposed amendment includes a 2.5% salary increase and an addition of $500 per mont! in deferred compensation effective July 1, 2026; noted that, effective July 1, 2027, the City Manager would receive a 3.5% salary increase contingent upon meeting City Council expectations and standards, an additional $400 per month in deferred compensation, and 40 hours of paid bereavement leave; and recommended the City Council discuss and adopt the Second Amendment to the City Manager The City Council expressed appreciation for City Manager Villalobos's efforts in organizing and ensuring all staff are working cohesively and shared that the City has many great opportunities to prosper.
Moved by Councilmember Truong, seconded by Councilmember Calderon, and carried by the following vote of the City Council to discuss and adopt the Second Amendment to the City Manager Employment City Council June 23, 2026 Page | 3
Agreement.
AYES: LEWIS, TRUONG, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: FINLAY, GARCIA
C. Consolidated and Comprehensive Citywide Salary Schedule Effective July 1, 2026 Assistant City Manager / Director of Administrative Services Petersen shared that the City is in the third year of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with employee groups; noted that the consolidated salary schedule is now available and combines three groups; highlighted that the schedule will take effect on July 1, 2026, for both unrepresented employees and the City Manager, and on July 5, 2026, for represented employees; and recommended the City Council adopt Resolution No. 26-24 establishing the Citywide Salary Schedule effective July 1, 2026 and then effective July 5, 2026, pursuant to the MOU.
The City Council expressed surprise that three years had already passed; reflected on the knowledge gained through service to the City; and thanked the City staff for their efforts.
Moved by Councilmember Truong, seconded by Councilmember Calderon, and carried by the following vote of the City Council to adopt Resolution No. 26-24 establishing the Citywide Salary Schedule Effective July 1, 2026.
AYES: LEWIS, TRUONG, CALDERON, KANG, MARTIN DEL CAMPO
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: FINLAY, GARCIA
14. ITEMS FROM CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/FINANCING AUTHORITY MEMBERS AND CITY
MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/REPORTS OF MEETINGS ATTENDED PER GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 53232.3
Parks and Recreation Director Enriquez reported he attended the California JPIA Certified Presidium Guardian Program training; expressed enthusiasm about applying the training to benefit the community; and thanked City Council and City Manager Villalobos for the opportunity to attend.
Assistant City Manager / Director of Administrative Services Petersen announced that the new operating budget will be available following a minor revision; expressed appreciation for City staff's efforts; noted that the budget theme aligns with the Strategic Plan adopted this year; and thanked City Manager Villalobos for his leadership throughout the process.
City Manager Villalobos thanked the City Council for extending his contract for an additional two years; stated that he is working on the benchmarks identified in his evaluation; shared his attendance at the Duarte Rotary Club Installation Dinner; commended Public Safety Services Director Breceda for his service as President of the Duarte Rotary Club; and reported attending One Nation Under Gol and expressed enthusiasm for future Olympic-related opportunities.
Councilmember Calderon shared his attendance at One Nation Under Gol; expressed enthusiasm about the Parks and Recreation Department's Olympic-related upcoming events; announced his attendance at the Water Academy hosted by Water Education for Latino Leaders (WELL) joined with Councilmember Garcia; highlighted key topics discussed; and encouraged residents to stay informed on water-related issues.
Councilmember Lewis reported attending the Monrovia, Arcadia, Duarte (MAD) Town Council meeting; noted that he was unable to attend One Nation Under Gol; shared information regarding grants available for community watch parties and stated he would continue monitoring grant opportunities; and thanked Russell Berry for initiating activities for the City's youth and community while sharing a personal story between them.
Councilmember Truong provided clarification regarding a published article; shared appreciation for City Manager Villalobos and various Councilmembers for their regular attendance at Tri-City meetings; thanked Senator Rubio for providing funding for the City; commended Supervisor Barger for the support given to Duarte; and recognized Councilmember Kang for his involvement in the creation of the Tri-City Working Group, followed by City of Azusa Mayor Gonzales and former Duarte Councilmember Schultz. He also informed the community that the Tri-City Working Group was created to address the homelessness in the riverbed; provided background on the potential lease of Lario Park and noted that Los Angeles City Council June 23, 2026
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County withdrew its rights of first refusal; stated that the City is exploring opportunities to assume the lease; thanked Cities of Azusa and Irwindale, City Manager Villalobos, fellow Councilmembers, and former Duarte Councilmember Schultz. Additionally, he reiterated the City's commitment to maintaining Lario Park in partnership with neighboring cities and the United States Army Corps of Engineers; again thanked In response to an inquiry from Mayor Pro Tem Kang, Assistant City Manager / Director of Administrative Services Petersen reported that the cost of the Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks billboard was Councilmember Troung additionally thanked the Parks and Recreation department for its continued efforts in building community relationships and announced that Vulcan Materials Company is sponsoring the City's Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks.
Mayor Pro Tem Kang thanked his colleagues for their contributions to the City's success; shared a personal reflections regarding Lario Park; reiterated that the City's efforts to restore and improve the area; acknowledged the challenges associated with homelessness and concerns regarding fires within the park; emphasized the importance of regional cooperation; and relayed neighborhood concerns regarding the crosswalk on Maryvale Street.
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options to improve safety conditions.
Mayor Pro Tem Kang also shared observations from a recent visit to China regarding advancements in public transportation and discussed opportunities for future improvements within the City.
Mayor Martin Del Campo reported attending the celebration for the new Pathology and Radiation Oncology (PRO) Building at City of Hope and shared highlights from the event; shared she attended One Nation Under Gol and thanked Supervisor Barger, City staff, and the Parks and Recreation Department for their efforts; noted she attended the Code and Bot ribbon-cutting ceremony, welcomed the business to community, and encouraged local families to participate in its programs. In addition, she announced her upcoming attendance at the Sanitation District meeting; thanked City Manager Villalobos and the City Council for their efforts regarding Lario Park; recognized City staff and their efforts in increasing the City's social media presence; expressed appreciation for the Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks billboard; and shared that her son attended Splash in the Park.
15. ADJOURNMENT
At 8:00 p.m., the City Council adjourned the meeting.
The City Council unadjourned the meeting.
Mayor Martin Del Campo expressed appreciation to Councilmember Garcia for his efforts in Sacramento alongside Senator Rubio for the City's benefit and noted that two Duarte students accompanied them to learn about the legislative process.
At 8:01 p.m., the City Council adjourned the meeting.
FoR Tera Martin Del Campo, Mayor
Frances C.Jimenez
Frances Jimenez, City Clerk
PRO TEM
motor
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