City of Fontana
8437 Sierra Avenue
Fontana, CA 92335
Minutes
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
2:00 PM
Steelworkers' Auditorium
8437 Sierra Avenue
Fontana, Ca. 92335
City Council Meeting
Acquanetta Warren - Mayor
Peter A. Garcia - Mayor Pro Tem
John B. Roberts - Council Member
Jesus "Jesse" Sandoval - Council Member
Phillip Cothran - Council Member
Germaine Key - City Clerk
Janet Koehler-Brooks, City Treasurer
CLOSED SESSION:
A. 1:30 P.M. CLOSED SESSION
The Closed Session meeting of the Fontana City Council was held at the Steelworkers’ Auditorium, 8437 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
Mayor Warren called the meeting to order at 1:31 p.m. with all members of the City Council present except Mayor Pro Tem Garcia and Council Member Sandoval.
City Treasurer Janet Koehler-Brooks and City Clerk Germaine Key were also present.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATION - CLOSED SESSION:
There were no public communications received for the following items:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9 (a)
Case: Valdez v. City of Fontana USDC Case No.: 5:24-cv-002631-KK-SP
The following individuals spoke under closed session public communications for the following items:
1. Bobbie Jo Chavarria
2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.8
Property: 16049 Arrow Blvd., (City Link Phase II)
City Negotiator: Phillip Burum, Deputy City Manager
Negotiating Party: Water of Life
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.8
Property: APN 1100- 091-71 (Lot C) and 1100-111-51 (Lot D) City Negotiator: Phillip Burum, Deputy City Manager
Negotiating Party: Water of Life
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL:
A. 2:00 P.M. Call To Order/Roll Call:
The Regular Meeting of the Fontana City Council was held in the Steelworkers’ Auditorium , 8437 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
Mayor Warren called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 2:02 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Mayor Warren, Council Members Cothran and Roberts.
City Treasurer Janet Koehler-Brooks and City Clerk Germaine Key were also present.
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Garcia and Council Member Sandoval
INVOCATION/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The invocation was given by Council Member Roberts, followed by the pledge of allegiance led by Council Member Cothran.
CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT:
City Attorney Ruben Duran reported that the City Council met in Closed Session on the item s listed on the agenda, provided direction to staff, and took no reportable action.
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9 (a)
Case: Valdez v. City of Fontana USDC Case No.: 5:24-cv-002631-KK-SP
2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.8
Property: 16049 Arrow Blvd., (City Link Phase II)
City Negotiator: Phillip Burum, Deputy City Manager
Negotiating Party: Water of Life
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.8
Property: APN 1100- 091-71 (Lot C) and 1100-111-51 (Lot D) City Negotiator: Phillip Burum, Deputy City Manager
Negotiating Party: Water of Life
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS/ CEREMONIAL:
A. Mayor Warren and City Council to recognize Community Services Supervisor, Stan Clark, Community Service Coordinator, Zachary Tamayo and Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation, Executive Director, Bill Bant for their dedication and outstanding efforts in developing and organizing the "Surf & Turf" competition.
Mayor Warren and the City Council recognized Community Services Supervisor, Stan Clark, Community Service Coordinator, Zachary Tamayo and Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation, Executive Director, Bill Bant for their dedication and outstanding efforts in developing and organizing the "Surf & Turf" competition.
B. Mayor Warren and City Council to recognize Gabriel Cancinos, Electrical and Safety gold medal winner at the ABC National Craft Championships.
Mayor Warren and City Council recognized Gabriel Cancinos, Electrical and Safety gold medal winner at the ABC National Craft Championships.
C. Mayor Warren and City Council to proclaim April 2026 as National Donate Life Month
Mayor Warren and City Council proclaimed April 2026 as National Donate Life Month. Elaine Jones, One Legacy Ambassador, accepted the proclamation.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS:
The following individuals spoke under public communications:
Asher Jones supported the Regional Navigation Center project and urged stronger wraparound services for people exiting homelessness.
Bobbie Jo Chavarria commented on Earth Month, called for stronger climate action, offered condolences to the Sandoval family and referenced various state and federal elected officials and policy issues.
Grace questioned funding and oversight of a property project she believed had been transferred to the County, and raised concerns about contract amendments without Council review. She also urged action on public safety legislation and community safety concerns.
Isabel Rios called for the removal of a Parks, Community and Human Services Commissioner , citing alleged misconduct during a police-involved incident resulting in a death, and referenced ongoing investigations and legal action related to the case.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
ACTION: Motion was made by Council Member Roberts , seconded by Council Member Cothran, and passed unanimously by a vote of 3-0 to approve Consent Calendar Items “A-M.” The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Warren, Cothran, and Roberts; NOES: None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: Garcia and Sandoval
A. Approval of Minutes 26-0913
Approve the minutes of March 24, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting and the March 31, 2026, Special City Council Meeting.
B. Adoption of a Resolution Declaring, Pursuant to the Previously 26-0825 Adopted Mitigation Negative Declaration for the Fire Station No. 80 Project, a Portion of Certain Real Property Located at 6585 Cherry Avenue a Public Right-of-Way for Street and Utility Purposes and Accepting the Road into the City’s Street System Adopt Resolution No. 2026-020, declaring a portion of certain real property located at 6585 Cherry Avenue a public right-of-way for street and utility purposes and accepting the road into the City’s street system.
C. Purchase and Sale Agreement of the Property from San 26-0838 Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), APN 0191-161-25
1. Approve a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the purchase of the property near Spring Street facing the Pacific Electric Trail, specifically described as APN 0191-161-25, in the amount of $130,000 plus escrow costs and related acquisition fees.
2. Authorize the City Manager to enter into the Purchase and Sale Agreement and/or any other documents necessary or appropriate to facilitate said purchase on behalf of the City of Fontana.
D. Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement for 26-0861 Architectural Design Services with Robert, Borders &
Associates for the Regional Navigation Center Tenant
Improvements Project (DE-25-91-SP)
1. Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement with Robert, Borders & Associates for Architectural Design Services for the Regional Navigation Center Tenant Improvements Project (DE-25-91-SP) in the amount of $147,120.00, for a total contract amount of $772,519.00.
2. Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute future individual Amendments not exceeding $100,000 for the Regional Navigation Center Tenant Center Improvement Project (PN37600084).
E. Adopt a Resolution for Projects Funded by the Road Repair and 26-0869 Accountability Act, SB 1
Adopt Resolution No. 2026-021, of the City Council of Fontana to incorporate projects funded by SB 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act, for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
F. Approve Amendment No. 2 to Task Order No. 2 26-0870 (DE-24-195-SQ) with NV5, Inc. for Plan Check, Map Check, and WQMP Review Services
Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into Amendment No. 2 to Task Order No. 2 (DE-24-195-SQ) with NV5, Inc. in the amount of $198,000, and an amended Task Order total of $477,000 for additional plan check, map check, and WQMP review services.
G. Annual Update on Military Equipment Pursuant to California 26-0887 Assembly Bill 481
Adopt the “2025 Fontana Police Department Annual Military Equipment Use Inventory Report” in accordance with Ordinance No. 1892 of the Fontana Municipal Code, Governing Military Equipment Usage.
H. Approve Right of Way Purchase and Sale Agreements of the 26-0890 Properties for the Building A Better Connected Inland Empire (RAISE) Project
1. Approve and authorize the City Manager to accept modifications made by MWD and enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement of the properties with Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.
2. Approve and authorize the City Manager to accept modifications made by MWD and enter into a Possession and Use Agreement of the properties with Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.
3. Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement of the properties with Intex Corporation.
I. Purchase of Artificial Turf Replacement Materials for Fields #5 26-0891 and #6 at Ralph M. Lewis Park.
1. Authorize the Purchasing Division to utilize the California Multiple Awards Schedule (CMAS) contract #4-06-78-0031A to procure Artificial Turf Replacement Materials and Nailer Boards Replacement per Purchasing Policies and Procedure Manual 3.1.5 Non-Competitive Proposal.
2. Approve the purchase from FieldTurf USA, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of $856,953.68 for the synthetic turf and materials.
J. Approve Anchor Easement with Southern California Edison 26-0901 on City Company Property Adjacent to Armstrong Road
1. Approve and authorize the City Manager sign the Anchor Easement with Southern California Edison Company on City Property adjacent to Armstrong Road.
K. Approve City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter Services 26-0902 Agreement Amendment No. 1
1. Approve Agreement Amendment No. 1 with the City of Fontana and San Bernardino City Animal Sheltering Services Contract.
2. Authorize the City Manager to enter into any and all future contract amendments on behalf of the City of Fontana.
L. Approve a Purchase Order with Knott’s Berry Farm for the 26- 0909 entry tickets to the amusement park for the Fontana Expanded Learning Program.
1. Approve the Non-Competitive Proposal purchase under the Purchasing Policies 3.1.5 for Single Source/Sole Source method for services are
unique.
2. Approve a Purchase Order with Knott’s Berry Farm in the amount of $227,787 for the entry tickets to the amusement park for the Fontana Expanded Learning Program.
M. Approval of Amended and Restated Communications 26 -0912 Site License Agreement with New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC (AT&T) and Approval of License Termination Agreement for Existing Site near 14000 Philadelphia Avenue
1. Approve the License Termination Agreement terminating the existing 2005 Communications Site License Agreement; and
2. Approve the Amended and Restated Communications Site License Agreement with New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC (AT&T) for continued operation of a wireless communications facility located at 14000 Philadelphia Avenue; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to enter into the agreements and any necessary related documents.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. Master Case No. 26-0007 and Municipal Code Amendment No. 26-0786 26-0001: Fontana Municipal Code amendments to Chapter 30 to modify multiple sections of the Zoning and Development Code, including modifications to definitions and uses related to medical land uses in commercial zones, the definition and regulation of business parks, screening requirements for loading areas in industrial zones, and regulations in the Form-Based Code zone, including the definition of frontage coverage, maximum setback standards in the Route 66 Gateway
sub-district, glazing requirements for the Shopfront frontage type, and landscaping in parking areas, pursuant to a
categorical exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c), 15378, and 15061(B)(3).
Open the public hearing, receive public testimony, close the public hearing and by motion:
1. Find that the adoption of the proposed ordinance is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c), 15378, and 15061(B)(3) (the common-sense exemption), and Sections No. 3.01, 3.22, and10.59 of the 2019 Local Guidelines for Implementing CEQA.
2. Waive full reading and introduce for first reading by title only Ordinance No. 1985 entitled: “An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Fontana, California, Amending Multiple Sections Of The Fontana Municipal Code, Including Amendments To Sec. 30-12 Pertaining To The Definition Of Acute Care, Urgent Care And Business Park; Sec. 30-358 Pertaining To The Definition Of Frontage Coverage; Sec. 30-368 Pertaining To The Maximum Setback For Buildings In The Route 66 Gateway Subdistrict Of The Form-Based Code Zone; Sec. 30-386
Pertaining To The Minimum Glazing Standard For The Shopfront Frontage Type In The Form-Based Code Zone; Sec. 30-389 Pertaining To Required Landscaping In Parking Areas For Mixed-Use And Commercial Developments In The Form-Based Code Zone; Sec. 30-489 Pertaining To The Urgent Care And Acute Care Land Uses In The Commercial Zones; Sec. 30-538 Pertaining To Required Screening Of Loading Areas In Industrial Zones”. And Finding The Action To Be Categorically Exempt From CEQA Under CEQA Sections 15060(C), 15378, and 15061(B)3).”
Mayor Warren opened the public hearing.
City Clerk Key stated that no written public communications were received.
Associate Planner Cecily Session-Goins provided the staff report.
Council Member Cothran asked about glazing flexibility, signage limits, and exemptions for narrow lots. Associate Planner Session- Goins clarified the proposal allows limited use of spandrel glass, standard signage rules would apply, and exemptions support feasible development. Council Member Cothran expressed support.
Mayor Warren asked about the definition and regulation of business parks, including how existing businesses would be affected. Associate Planner Session- Goins explained that a formal definition and use classifications are included in the code, and existing businesses that do not meet new standards would be allowed to continue operating as legal nonconforming uses, subject to standard zoning provisions.
With no one interested to speak in favor or opposition of this item Mayor Warren closed the Public Hearing.
ACTION: Motion was made by Council Member Roberts, seconded by Council Member Cothran, and passed unanimously by vote of 3 -0 to approve Public Hearing Item “ A.” The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Warren, Cothran, and Roberts; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: Garcia and Sandoval
B. Public Hearing on Formation of Community Facilities District 26-0896 No. 117 (Southridge).
Mayor Warren asked for any members of the public who wish to file a written protest prior to the opening of the public hearing for the Formation of Community Facilities District No. 117.
There was no one who wished to file a protest.
Mayor Warren opened the public hearing.
City Clerk Key stated that one written public communication was received and would be added to the record.
Accounting Supervisor Samuel Perez provided the staff report.
The following individuals spoke in opposition:
1. Grace
2. Grow Fontana
Mayor Warren closed the Public Hearing.
ACTION: Motion was made by Council Member Cothran, seconded by Council Member Roberts and unanimously passed by a vote of 3-0 to adopt the following:
1. Resolution No. 2026-022 for formation of Community Facilities District 117(Southridge).
2. Resolution No. 2026 -023 deeming it necessary to incur bonded indebtedness of Community Facilities District 117(Southridge).
3. Resolution No. 2026 -024 calling a special election for Community Facilities District 117(Southridge).
The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Warren, Cothran, and Roberts; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: Garcia and Sandoval
Following the motion, Mayor Warren asked City Clerk Key to open the ballots and announce the results of the election.
City Clerk Key announced that the City received one ballot in favor.
ACTION: Motion was made by Council Member Roberts , seconded by Council Member Cothran to move the following by a unanimous vote of 3-0 as follows:
1. Resolution No. 2026 -025 declaring the results of the special election and directing the recording of special tax lien.
2. Read by title only, and waive further reading of and introduce Ordinance No. 1986 levying special taxes within the City of Fontana Community Facilities District No. 117 (Southridge); and that the reading of the title constitutes the first reading thereof.
3. Resolution No. 2026 -026 authorizing the execution and delivery of a Letter of Credit Agreement and an Acquisition and Funding Agreement.
The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Warren, Cothran, and Roberts; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: Garcia and Sandoval
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance No. 1987, an 26-0911 Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Fontana, California, amending Article XIII of Chapter 15 of the Fontana Municipal Code to regulate social hosts who allow illegal fireworks.
Introduce and waive further reading of Ordinance No. 1987, Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Fontana, California, amending Article XIII of Chapter 15 of the Fontana Municipal Code to regulate social hosts who allow illegal fireworks.
Deputy City Manager Ray Ebert provided the staff report.
Council Member Roberts confirmed the proposed ordinance is consistent with measures already adopted by other California cities and is intended to enhance public safety ahead of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States . Deputy City Manager Ebert confirmed the ordinance was modeled after similar regulations implemented in other Southern California jurisdictions.
Council Member Cothran clarified that the ordinance applies year -round, including stricter no-fireworks zones. Deputy City Manager Ebert confirmed property owners or tenants can be held responsible for violations tied to their residence, with fines of $1,000 per illegal firework.
Homeowner supported the ordinance for safety reasons but raised concerns about outreach, enforcement methods, and the need for more community education.
ACTION: Motion was made by Council Member Roberts, seconded by Council Member Cothran, and passed unanimously by vote of 3 -0 to approve New Business Item “A.” The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Warren, Cothran, and Roberts; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: Garcia and Sandoval
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS:
City Manager Matt Ballantyne provided clarification on Consent Calendar ite ms: Item C involves acquiring a small parcel along the Juniper –Sierra trail to support a future market/affordable housing development, and Item D relates to the Navigation Center , noting a recent agreement signing with seven partner cities. He asked Deputy City Manager Burum to explain further.
Deputy City Manager Burum explained that the C ity acquired the property and is leading design work for the navigation center in coordination with the County, which will ultimately purchase and operate the facility after construction is complete. The C ity is advancing the project and updating the architect’s scope ( the change order) to reflect expanded needs,
including additional space and a sobering center. The County will reimburse all eligible development and construction costs upon completion. The facility will include 100 recuperative care beds, 100 navigation/wellness beds, and an added sobering component.
City Manager Ballantyne reported that Public Works has completed two soccer fields at Lewis Park and is moving forward with construction of two additional fields at an estimated cost of $1 million, noting appreciation for continued investment in City parks.
ELECTED OFFICIALS COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS:
City Clerk Key offered condolences to Council Member Sandoval and his family and also shared a personal announcement congratulating h er two grandsons on their graduation from Summit High School —one accepted to Morehouse College and the other pursuing trade school to become a barber.
City Treasurer Koehler-Brooks also offered condolences to Council Member Sandoval and his family.
Council Member Roberts also offered condolences to Council Member Sandoval and his family.
Council Member Cothran also offered condolences and noted the importance of honoring the Sandoval family when appropriate. He emphasized the need for strong public education and outreach once the fireworks ordinance takes effect, including clear guidance on how residents should report issues (suggesting use of non-emergency or 311 instead of 911).
Mayor Warren announced that the meeting would be adjourned in memory of Council Member Sandoval’s mother, Eleanor Morales and thanked colleagues, staff, and regional partners for their work. She highlighted strong support for the Navigation Center and described it as part of the City’s broader strategy to address homelessness through coordinated services, funding, and partnerships. Sh e emphasized Fontana’s leadership in housing efforts, including affordable housing, and reiterated a long- term commitment to expanding solutions such as first-time homebuyer programs and veteran housing assistance.
ADJOURNMENT:
A. Adjournment
Mayor Warren and the City Council led a moment of silence in memory of the following individuals:
1. Eleanor Morales
Mayor Warren adjourned the meeting at 3:40 p.m. to the Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Steelworkers’ Auditorium located at 8 437 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, California.
_______________________
Christina Rudsell, CMC
Chief Deputy City Clerk
THE FOREGOING MINUTES WERE ADOPTED AND APPROVED BY THE FONTANA CITY COUNCIL ON APRIL 28, 2026.
_______________________
Germaine Key
City Clerk