City of Fontana
8437 Sierra Avenue
Fontana, CA 92335
Minutes
Tuesday, April 28, 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
WORKSHOP:
A. 12:30 P.M. City Council Workshop
A. E -Bike Discussion: Use, Safety & Regulation
The Workshop of the Fontana City Council convened on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in the Steelworkers’ Auditorium located at 8437 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335. Mayor Pro Tem Garcia called the Workshop to order at 12:31 p.m., with all Council Members present except Mayor Warren, who arrived at 12:39 p.m., and Council Member Sandoval.
City Clerk Germaine Key and City Treasurer Janet Koehler-Brooks were also not present.
No public communications were received.
Deputy City Manager Ray Ebert provided the staff report.
Council Member C othran noted that some manufacturers are marketing e- bikes as having lower speeds than they actually reach. He discussed the need for stronger education efforts and alignment with State enforcement initiatives. He added that a more in- depth analysis is required given the rapidly evolving laws and emphasized that enforcement should not divert public safety resources from higher-priority needs.
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia expressed support for enhanced education, a local ordinance, and measures to separate e- bike use from pedestrian areas, such as restricting e- bikes from sidewalks.
Mayor Warren referenced several e- bike complaints received and stated that education efforts will require coordination with school districts and charter schools. She emphasized the importance of parents understanding the risks associated with e- bike ownership and use. She asked whether e- bike insurance is required, to which Deputy City Manager Ebert responded that it is not. She also suggested exploring ways to protect City assets, such as parks, from potential damage.
It was the consensus of the Council to focus on education, limit e- bike use on sidewalks, identify appropriate areas such as parks for permitted use, and continue discussions with school districts regarding designated zones.
Police Chief Michael Dorsey stated that approximately 95% of complaints involve e-motorcycles rather than traditional e- bikes. He noted that the City has been working closely with school districts on both education and enforcement efforts.
City Manager Matt Ballantyne stated that an ordinance will be brought forward for Council consideration. Mayor Warren encouraged community input. Council Member Cothran asked Planning staff to consider designated bike lanes in new developments, particularly near new schools on the north side of the City.
The Workshop was adjourned at 1:04 p.m.
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 28, 2026.
Mayor Warren called the meeting to order at 1: 04 p.m. with all members of the City Council present except 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) Name of case: A’Vay Lewis v. City of Fontana, et al., Case No. CIVSB2505558 (San Bernardino Superior Court).
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9 (a) Name of case: Lary Qirk Lewis v. City of Fontana, et al., Case No. CIVSB2516452 (San Bernardino Superior Court).
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 28, 2026.
Mayor Warren called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 2:04 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
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia arrived at 2:38 p.m.
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.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS/ CEREMONIAL ITEMS:
A. Mayor Warren and City Council to swear in new Fontana Firefighters
Mayor Warren and the City Council swore -in new Fontana Firefighters Isaac Hernandez , Joshua Senert, Scott Schneringer, Bernardo Valadez , Conner Gorrien, Justin Westerberg, Matthew Bolden, and Tyler Smith.
B. Mayor Warren and City Council to swear in new Fontana Police Officers Kenneth Gasaway, Mason Howard, Mireya Izazaga & Kevin Ojima
Mayor Warren and the City Council sw ore-in new Fontana Police Officers Kenneth Gasaway, Mason Howard, Mireya Izazaga, and Kevin Ojima.
C. Mayor Warren and City Council to recognize Officers Alex Chuy, Dustin Hodgins, Daniel Oliver & Hector Quinones as March 2026 Employees of the month
Mayor Warren and the City Council recognized Officers Alex Chuy, Dustin Hodgins, Daniel Oliver, and Hector Quinones as March 2026 Employees of the Month
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS:
The following individuals spoke under public communications:
Grace expressed concerns about the proposed sewer rate increases and questioned the appropriateness of charging a $120,000 marketing contract to Fund 702. She requested clarification on the fund’s expenditures and asked for a full accounting before any rate adjustments proceed.
City Manager Ballantyne clarified that the $120,000 Stage Red contract was charged to Fund 720, not the Sewer Connection Fund (Fund 702), and confirmed that no sewer enterprise funds were used for that expenditure. He emphasized that all sewer fund charges must be sewer‑related and stated that this had been verified.
Cuevas, a Cal State San Bernardino Social Work student, described her group’s project focused on identifying neighborhood concerns and educating residents about using Fontana 311. She noted they will hold an informational session on May 20 at Redwood Elementary School.
John Pedroza 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.
Jess Arredondo, representing the Knights of Columbus, stated that the organization has long served the Fontana community and offered its support for future community needs. He reiterated that they are available to assist the City.
Georgia Stettner 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.
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.
Victor 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:
Prior to the motion, Mayor Warren announced that she would recuse herself from Item Q due to owning property in the affected area.
ACTION: Motion was made by Council Member Roberts , seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Garcia, and passed unanimously by a vote of 4 -0 to approve Consent Calendar Items “A-T.” The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Warren, Garcia, Cothran, and Roberts; NOES: None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: Sandoval
A. Approval of Minutes 26-0951
Approve the minutes of April 14, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting.
B. Adoption of Ordinance No. 1985 (Second Reading), Amending 26-0947 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..E
Conduct a second reading by title only and adopt, Ordinance No. 1985, 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).
C. Adoption of Ordinance No. 1986 (Second Reading), levying 26-0949 special taxes within the City of Fontana Community Facilities District No. 117 (Southridge)
Conduct a second reading by title only and adopt, Ordinance No. 1986, levying special taxes within the City of Fontana Community Facilities District No. 117 (Southridge).
D. Adoption of Ordinance No. 1987 (Second Reading), amending 26-0950 Article XIII of Chapter 15 of the Fontana Municipal Code to regulate social hosts who allow illegal fireworks
Conduct a second reading by title only and adopt, Ordinance No. 1987, amending Article XIII of Chapter 15 of the Fontana Municipal Code to regulate social hosts who allow illegal fireworks.
E. Approval of a Resolution Amending and Updating the 26-0915 City’s Records Retention Schedule
Approve Resolution No. 2026-027, adopting a revised Records Retention Schedule for the retention and destruction of obsolete records.
F. Award a Professional Services Agreement for Design Services 26-0846 to BFK Architects for the 16641 Orange Way Public Works East Yard Renovation Project (PW-26-158-SP).
1. Award and authorize the City Manager to enter into a Professional Services Agreement with BFK Architects for the Design Services for the 16641 Orange Way Public Works East Yard Renovation Project in the amount of $318,880.00 (Request for Proposals PW-26-158-SP).
2. Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into future individual Professional Services Agreement Amendments with BFK, not exceeding $30,000.00 for the 16641 Orange Way Public Works East Yard Renovation Project (PW-26-158-SP).
G. Authorize the Purchase of Next-Generation Firewalls to Replace 26-0871 End-of-Life Firewalls
1. Authorize the Purchasing Division to procure next-generation firewall hardware utilizing Purchasing Policy and Procedure Manual 3.1.5 Non-Competitive Proposal - Purchase by Another Agency.
2. Authorize the Purchasing Division to use the OMNIA Partners Contract #01-154 to purchase a pair of replacement firewalls from authorized reseller NowTech Solutions of Sacramento, CA, including all required licensing, maintenance, and support in the amount of $126,744.31.
H. Authorize the Renewal of Licensing and Maintenance 26-0889 for Firewall Systems
1. Authorize the Purchasing Division to utilize the OMNIA Partners IT Solutions, Products, and Services Contract #2024056-02 to renew licensing, maintenance, and support for the City’s Palo Alto firewall and SD-WAN systems in accordance with Purchasing Policies and Procedure Manual 3.1.5 Non-Competitive Proposal - Purchase by Another Agency.
2. Approve the purchase from SHI International in the amount of $102,925.60.
I. Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fontana, California 26-0897 Approving a Purchase and Sale Agreement Between the City of Fontana and SA Golden Investments, Inc. for Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 0228-151-62-0000 and 0228-151-66-0000
1. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-028, approving a Purchase and Sale Agreement between the City of Fontana and SA Golden Investments, Inc. for Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 0228-151-62-0000 and 0228-151- 66-0000.
2. Authorize the City Manager to sign any documents necessary or appropriate to approve and enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement.
J. Award a Construction Contract for the Fire Station No. 80 - 26-0928 Training Center Project (Bid No. DE-26-129-SB)
1. Award and authorize the City Manager to enter into a construction contract with AMG & Associates, Inc. for the construction of the Fire Station No. 80 - Training Center in the amount of $14,395,000 and authorize a 10% contingency in the amount of $1,439,500 (Bid No. DE-26 -129-SB).
2. Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into any and all utility agreements, utility easements, and subsequent agreements on behalf of the City of Fontana for the Fire Station No. 80 - Training Center (Bid No.
DE-26-129-SB).
3. Appropriate $3,900,000 from Fire Capital Project Fund (Fund 610) to the Fire Station No. 80 - Training Center Project No. 37603385.
4. Approve a transfer in the amount of $3,900,000 from Fontana Fire District Fund #210 to the Fire Capital Project Fund #610 to cover construction contract costs.
K. Police Department Monthly Information Update 26-0931 Accept the Police Department monthly information update for February 2026.
L. Authorize the Renewal of VMware Software Licensing 26-0933
1. Authorize the Purchasing Division to procure VMware maintenance and support utilizing NASPO State of California Participating Addendum Contract AR2472 (Addendum 7-17-70-40-05) in accordance with Purchasing Policies and Procedure Manual 3.1.5 Non-Competitive Proposal - Purchase by Another Agency.
2. Approve the purchase from Sidepath, Inc. of Laguna Hills, CA as the authorized reseller in the amount of $119,380.00.
M. Final Acceptance of Heritage Community Center Pool 26-0935 Plastering Project (PW-26-70-SB)
1. Accept as complete the work performed by California Landscape and Design, Inc. for the Heritage Community Center Pool Plastering project (PW-26-70-SB).
2. Authorize the City Manager to approve the additional contract authorization increase amount of $22,378.00.
N. Purchase and Sale Agreement- 15166 Foothill Blvd 26-0941
1. Approve a Purchase & Sale Agreement for the purchase of the associated land located at 15166 Foothill Boulevard, Fontana, CA 92335 specifically described as APN 1110-161-08 in the amount of $3,200,000 plus escrow costs and related acquisition fees.
2. Authorize the purchase of that certain Real Property specifically described as APN 1110-161-08 comprised of approximately 2.30 acres (“Property”) from Aldea Foothill Two, LLC.
3. Authorize the City Manager to enter into the Purchase and Sale Agreement and any other documents necessary or appropriate to
facilitate said purchase on behalf of the City of Fontana.
O. First Amendment to Option and Purchase and Sale Agreement 26-0942 for City owned property
1. Approve the First Amendment to the Option and Purchase and Sale Agreement with SA Golden Investments, LLC for city owned land located at the northwest corner of Arrow Boulevard and Sierra Avenue consisting of approximately 21,500 square feet, more specifically described as APN’s 0191-163-26, 0191-163-17, and 0191-163-16.
2. Authorize the City Manager to enter into any documents necessary or appropriate to effectuate said approvals and/or agreement, including any related financing or subordination documents required to effectuate the close of escrow and development of the property.
P. Final Acceptance of Ralph M. Lewis Sports Park Artificial Turf 26-0944 Installation for Fields 1 & 2 (PW-26-36-SB)
Accept as complete the work performed by FieldTurf Inc, USA for Ralph M.
Lewis Sports Park Artificial Turf Installation for Fields 1 & 2 (PW-26-36-SB).
Q. Award a Construction Contract for the Village of Heritage (VoH) 26-0945 Liberty Loop Patching and Pavement Rehabilitation Project (DE-26-97-SB)
1. Award bid and authorize the City Manager to enter into a construction contract with Matich Corporation for the construction of the VoH Liberty Loop Patching and Pavement Rehabilitation Project in the amount of $2,548,691.00 and authorize a 10% contingency in the amount of $254,869.10 (DE-26-97-SB).
2. Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into any and all utility agreements, utility easements, and subsequent agreements on behalf of the City of Fontana for the VoH Liberty Loop Patching and Pavement Rehabilitation Project.
R. Approve and Authorize the City Manager to enter into a Public 26-0974 Road Easement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service along Coyote Canyon Road, West of Sierra Avenue Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into a Public Road Easement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service along Coyote Canyon Road, west of Sierra Avenue.
S. Naming of Proposed Children’s Museum in honor of John P. 26-0956 Previti
Approve the naming of the Proposed Children’s Museum in honor of John P Previti.
T. Adoption of Resolution No. 2026-029 Appointing Mayor 26-0980 Warren as the City’s Representative to the San Bernardino
Regional Housing Trust (SBRHT) Board of Directors
Adopt Resolution No. 2026-029 appointing Mayor Warren as the City of Fontana’s representative to the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust (SBRHT) Board of Directors.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Establishing Procedures for the Conduct of the Public Hearing 26-0957 and Majority Protest Process and Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies Procedures
Authorize the City Clerk, or their designee, to provide notice of the public hearing in accordance with Proposition 218’s requirements.
City Manager Ballantyne clarified that the $120K contract awarded in December was charged to Fund 720, Stage Red.
City Engineer/Director of Public Works Gia Kim, Raftelis consultants John Wright and Nick Kennedy provided the staff report.
Council Member Cothran explained that many residents mistakenly believe the City controls wastewater rates, noting that these decisions are made by the Inland Empire Utilities Age ncy (IEUA) whose meetings are held in Chino. He stated that he regularly expresses concerns about rate increases and emphasized the need for greater accountability from the agency’s board.
Mr. Wright clarified that the sewer rate increases include a pass ‑through component, meaning the City collects charges on customer bills and forwards them to the regional wastewater agencies without retaining revenue. H e also explained that the rate calculations assume no growth in equivalent dwelling units over the next five years and noted that accessory dwelling units were not included in the analysis.
ACTION: Motion was made by Council Member Cothran, seconded by Council Member Roberts, and passed unanimously by vote of 4 -0 to approve New Business Item “ A.” The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Warren, Garcia, Cothran, and Roberts; NOES: None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: Sandoval
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS:
City Manager Ballantyne reaffirmed that the Stage Red marketing contract was properly charged to Fund 720 and that no expenditures were made from the Sewer Connection Fund 702 and staff would correct the typo on the fina ncial report on the website and ensure continued accuracy and transparency in sewer enterprise fund accounting. He highlighted recent infrastructure investments, announced the upcoming Fontana Days Parade, and stated that staff will follow up on Prop 218 and Accessory Dwelling Unit questions.
ELECTED OFFICIALS COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS:
City Clerk Key congratulated the new Fire and Police Department recruits as well as the Police Department’s Employees of the Month.
City Treasurer Koehler-Brooks congratulated the new Fire and Police Department recruits as well as the Police Department’s Employees of the Month. She also noted that she attended the recent Above the Limits event, which welcomes all participants and is especially supportive of individuals with special needs.
Council Member Roberts reflected on the Fire Department’s new hires, noting it reminded him of when he began his career, and expressed condolences to Council Member Sandoval on the passing of his mother.
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia did not have any comments.
Council Member Cothran welcomed Mayor Pro Tem Garcia back and reported on a recent trip to Washington, D.C., where City representatives met with federal agencies to pursue funding opportunities for police staffing and housing initiatives. He expressed confidence in the Police Department’s competitiveness for grant programs and deferred additional trip details to Mayor Warren.
Mayor Warren reported on a productive trip to Washington, D.C., where City representatives met with federal and state officials to discuss funding opportunities and highlighted Fontana’s strong record of putting grant funds to immediate use. She also recognized a major food donation to CityLink, promoted upcoming community events including the Fontana Days Parade, noted ongoing collaboration with local school districts, and encouraged residents to participate in City programs and utilize local parks and trails. She concluded by acknowledging Council Member Sandoval’s absence due to the passing of his mother.
ADJOURNMENT:
A. Adjournment
Mayor Warren and the City Council led a moment of silence in memory of the following individual:
1. Wayne F. Burt, Jr.
Mayor Warren adjourned the meeting at 3: 37 p.m. to the Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Steelworkers’ Auditorium located at 8437 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, California.
_______________________
Christina Rudsell, CMC
Chief Deputy City Clerk
THE FOREGOING MINUTES WERE ADOPTED AND APPROVED BY THE FONTANA CITY COUNCIL ON MAY 12, 2026.
_______________________
Germaine Key
City Clerk