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MINUTES
GARDEN GROVE CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
Community Meeting Center
11300 Stanford Avenue, Garden Grove, CA 92840
CONVENE CLOSED SESSION
At 5:40 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam convened closed session.
ROLL CALL PRESENT: (6) Council Members O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen, Mayor Pro Tem
Brietigam
ABSENT: (1) Mayor Jones
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR CLOSED SESSION
Speakers: None.
Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1): Christopher Wasinger vs.
City of Garden Grove, Workers Compensation Appeal Board Case Nos.
ADJ11157647 and ADJ11157649
Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1): Jerry Young vs. City of Garden Grove, Workers Compensation Appeal Board Case Nos. ADJ8439657 and ADJ8439658
Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
Property: 12966 Euclid Street, Garden Grove
City Negotiator: Lisa Kim, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: Peter Wells and Anthony DeLorenzo, CBRE Under Negotiation: To obtain direction regarding the price and terms of payment for acquisition of the property
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ADJOURN CLOSED SESSION
At 6:25 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam adjourned closed session.
CONVENE REGULAR MEETING
At 6:33 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam convened the meeting with Council Members O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, and Nguyen present.
INVOCATION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
RECESS
At 6:37 p.m. Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam recessed the meeting.
RECONVENE
At 6:43 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam reconvened the meeting with Council Members O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, and Nguyen present.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT IN RECOGNITION OF PACIFICA HIGH SCHOOL’S VARSITY SOFTBALL TEAM FOR WINNING THE CIF SOUTHERN SECTION DIVISION 1
CHAMPIONSHIP
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT IN RECOGNITION OF PACIFICA HIGH SCHOOL’S VARSITY
NJROTC PROGRAM FOR THEIR HISTORY-MAKING PLACEMENT AT THE NJROTC
NATIONALS
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Speakers: Leland Sisk, Nicholas Dibs, Rubi Garcia, Thomas Quoc, Steven, Richard Jung, Brian Malley.
CONSIDERATION OF A WRITTEN REQUEST FROM THE KOREAN FESTIVAL COMMITTEE
OF ORANGE COUNTY TO HOST THE ARIRANG FESTIVAL AT GARDEN GROVE PARK ON OCTOBER 12, 2023, THROUGH OCTOBER 15, 2023 (F: 42.7A)
Following staff introduction, and City Council comments, it was moved by Council Member Klopfenstein, seconded by Council Member Nguyen that:
The written proposal from the Korean Festival Committee of Orange County (KFCOC) to conduct the Arirang Festival at Garden Grove Park beginning Thursday, October 12 through Sunday, October 15, 2023, be approved; and
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The City Manager be authorized to prepare and execute a formal agreement between the City and the KFCOC for the use of Garden Grove Park to conduct the Arirang Festival.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
CONSIDERATION OF A WRITTEN REQUEST FROM THE HONORING OUR FALLEN
ORGANIZATION FOR APPROVAL OF TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CITY STREETS FOR THE INDEPENDENCE DAY-FREEDOM PARADE ON SATURDAY, JULY 1, 2023 (F: 100.1)
Following staff introduction, it was moved by Council Member Klopfenstein, seconded by Council Member Nguyen that:
The request from the Honoring Our Fallen organization for street closure in the Eastgate Neighborhood to conduct an Independence Day-Freedom Parade on Saturday, July 1, 2023, with an estimated cost of $3,500 to be fully reimbursed by the organizer, be approved.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
RECESS
At 7:23 p.m. Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam recessed the meeting.
RECONVENE
At 8:02 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam reconvened the meeting with Council Members O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, and Nguyen present.
ADOPTION OF A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING JUNE 19TH AS JUNETEENTH IN GARDEN GROVE (F: 83.1-2023)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
A proclamation be adopted recognizing June 19th as Juneteenth in Garden Grove.
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The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
ADOPTION OF A PROCLAMATION DECLARING JUNE 20TH AS WORLD REFUGEE DAY IN GARDEN GROVE (F: 83.1-2023)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
A proclamation be adopted declaring June 20th as World Refugee Day in Garden Grove.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
AWARD CONTRACTS TO B&D TOWING, DBA BALCACERES AND DAVALOS TOWING, AND CYLINDER ENTERPRISES INC., DBA FINISH LINE TOWING TO PROVIDE ON-CALL TOWING SERVICES AS NEEDED BY THE POLICE DEPARTMENT (F: 55-B&D TOWING) (F: 55-CYLINDER ENTERPRISES, INC.)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Contracts be awarded to B&D Towing, dba Balcaceres and Davalos Towing; and Cylinder Enterprises, Inc., dba Finish Line Towing, to provide on-call towing services as needed by the Police Department; and
The City Manager be authorized to execute the contracts on behalf of the City.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
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ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDS FROM THE CALIFORNIA BOARD OF STATE AND
COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS (BSCC) FOR A POLICE OFFICER WELLNESS PROGRAM (F: 82.15)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
The California Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant Funds in the amount of $122,162.38, be accepted; and The funds be appropriated into the Police Department’s Fiscal Year 2023-25 budget.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH WOODRUFF & SMART TO ADJUST THE RATES FOR CITY ATTORNEY SERVICES (F: 55-WOODRUFF & SMART)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
The Amendment to the Agreement with Woodruff & Smart be approved; and
The City Manager be authorized to execute the agreement on behalf of the City.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
AWARD A CONTRACT TO U.S. BANK, N.A. FOR BANKING SERVICES FOR FISCAL YEARS 2023-24 THROUGH 2025-26 (F: 55-U.S. BANK, N.A.)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Bidding be dispensed in the best interest of the City pursuant to Garden Grove Municipal Code Section 2.50.060(G);
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A contract be awarded to U.S. Bank N.A. for general banking services for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2026, with an additional two option years; and The City Manager, or her designee, be authorized to execute the contract, approve minor modifications as needed, and exercise the option years to extend the contract up to five years.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION DECLARING A SURPLUS LAND EXEMPTION FOR REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 11390-11400 STANFORD AVENUE, GARDEN GROVE (F: 84.2)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Resolution No. 9788-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove, California, declaring certain real property located at 11390-11400 Stanford Avenue, Garden Grove, California as exempt surplus land; and making certain other findings in connection therewith, be adopted.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 PROJECT LIST FUNDED BY SENATE BILL 1 – THE ROAD TO REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017 (F: 34.1.FY2023-24)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Resolution No. 9789-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove, State of California, authorizing the submittal of a project list of road projects funded by SB 1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 for Fiscal Year 2023/24, be adopted.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
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Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS FOR: INITIATING PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVYING OF FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 ASSESSMENT FOR THE CITY OF GARDEN GROVE STREET LIGHTING DISTRICT, STREET LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 99-1, AND PARK MAINTENANCE DISTRICT; THE ENGINEER’S REPORT; AND INTENTION FOR FIXING A TIME AND DATE TO CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING (F: 69.2)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Resolution No. 9790-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500 et seq. of the California Streets and Highways Code) initiating proceedings to levy annual assessments for the 2023-24 Fiscal Year for the City of Garden Grove Street Lighting District and ordering the City Engineer to prepare and file a report in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 1 of Said Act, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9791-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500 et seq. of the California Streets and Highways Code) initiating proceedings to levy annual assessments for the 2023-24 Fiscal Year for the City of Garden Grove Street Lighting District No. 99-1 and ordering the City Engineer to prepare and file a report in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 1 of Said Act, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9792-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500 et seq. of the California Streets and Highways Code) initiating proceedings to levy annual assessments for the 2023-24 Fiscal Year for the City of Garden Grove Park Maintenance District and ordering the City Engineer to prepare and file a report in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 1 of Said Act, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9793-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove approving the City Engineer’s Report regarding the levy of an annual assessment within the City of Garden Grove Street Lighting District for Fiscal Year 2023-24, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9794-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove approving the City Engineer’s Report regarding the levy of an annual assessment within the City of Garden Grove Street Lighting District 99-1 for Fiscal Year 2023-24, be adopted;
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Resolution No. 9795-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove approving the City Engineer’s Report regarding the levy of an annual assessment within the City of Garden Grove Park Maintenance District for Fiscal Year 2023-24, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9796-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500 et seq. of the California Streets and Highways Code) declaring its intention to levy and collect assessments within the City of Garden Grove Street Lighting District for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and setting a time and place for a public hearing on the levy of the proposed assessments, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9797-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500 et seq. of the California Streets and Highways Code) declaring its intention to levy and collect assessments within the City of Garden Grove Street Lighting District 99-1 for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and setting a time and place for a public hearing on the levy of the proposed assessments, be adopted; and
Resolution No. 9798-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500 et seq. of the California Streets and Highways Code) declaring its intention to levy and collect assessments within the City of Garden Grove Park Maintenance District for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and setting a time and place for a public hearing on the levy of the proposed assessments, be adopted.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
APPROVAL OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 DOWNTOWN ASSESSMENT DISTRICT BUDGET; ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION OF INITIATING PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVYING OF ASSESSMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-24; ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ENGINEER’S REPORT; AND ADOPTION OF A
RESOLUTION OF INTENTION FIXING A TIME AND DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING (F: 31.4)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
The proposed Budget for the Downtown Assessment District No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2023-24, be approved;
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Resolution No. 9799-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500 et seq. of the California Streets and Highways Code) initiating proceedings to levy annual assessments for the 2023-24 Fiscal Year for the City of Garden Grove Downtown Assessment District, and ordering the City Engineer to prepare and file a report in accordance with Article 4 of Chapter 1 of the Act, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9800-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove approving the City Engineer’s Report regarding the levy of an annual assessment within the City of Garden Grove Downtown Assessment District for Fiscal Year 2023-24, be adopted; and
Resolution No. 9801-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove, declaring its intention to order the maintenance of certain improvements in the Downtown Assessment District in the City of Garden Grove, describing the District to be benefitted, and declaring its intention to levy an assessment to pay the cost and expenses thereof, and setting the time and place for the public hearing on the question of the levy of the proposed assessment, be adopted.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
APPROVAL OF FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 MEASURE M2 SEVEN-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN; AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ENSURING CONFORMANCE OF THE CITY’S CIRCULATION ELEMENT WITH THE ORANGE
COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY MASTER PLAN OF ARTERIAL HIGHWAYS IN CONCURRENCE WITH THE CITY’S EXISTING MITIGATION FEE PROGRAM (F: 23.18C)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Fiscal Year 2023-24 Measure M2 Seven-Year Capital Improvement Plan, be approved; and
Resolution No. 9802-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove concerning the status and update of the Circulation Element, and Mitigation Fee Program for the Measure M (M2) Program, be adopted.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
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Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
APPROVAL OF WRITING OFF CERTAIN DELINQUENT OBLIGATIONS OWED TO THE CITY AS UNCOLLECTIBLE DEBT (F: 78.5)
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
The write-off be approved for eight accounts totaling $536,991.82 of uncollectible debt for Fiscal Year 2022-23.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
WARRANTS
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Demands covered by EFT numbers 00023289 through 00023935 and check numbers 00185367 through 00185389 inclusive as listed and have been verified by the Finance Division as properly issued and bear all proper signatures, be received and filed.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
WAIVER
It was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Full reading of ordinances listed be waived.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
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Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
PUBLIC HEARING – ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS APPROVING THE BIENNIAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 AND FISCAL YEAR 2024-25
(F: 34.1-FY2023-24/FY2024-25)
Following City Manager Kim’s introduction and Finance Director Song and Budget Manager Castellon’s presentation, Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam declared the public hearing open.
Speakers: Leland Sisk, Brian Malley, Nicholas Dibs
There being no further testimony, Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam closed the public hearing.
Following City Council comments, it was moved by Council Member O’Neill, seconded by Council Member Nguyen that:
Resolution No. 9803-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove adopting the City’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and Fiscal Year 2024-25, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9804-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove adopting an appropriations limit for Fiscal Year 2023-24 implementing Article XIII B of the State Constitution as amended by Proposition 111 pursuant to Section 7900 et seq. of the Government Code, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9805-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove reappropriating certain Fiscal Year 2022-23 project balances and encumbrances for the Fiscal Year 2023-24, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9806-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove appropriating fund balances as of June 30, 2023, to reserves for future year reappropriations, be adopted;
Resolution No. 9807-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove establishing and amending user fees for various city services; be adopted;
Resolution No. 9808-23 entitled: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove adopting the Garden Grove Housing Authority Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and Fiscal Year 2024-25, be adopted; and
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The Overnight Conference and Training List for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and Fiscal Year 2024-25, be approved.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
APPOINTMENTS TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION TO FILL TWO VACANCIES (F: 122.10A)
This matter was continued to the next meeting.
INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE TO ADOPT THE PARAMEDIC TAX OVERRIDE RATE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 (F: 60.11) (Earlier in the meeting, it was moved by Council Member Nguyen, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein, and approved by a 6-0-1 vote that full reading of ordinances listed be waived.)
Following the introduction, and Council comments, it was moved by Council Member O’Neill, seconded by Council Member Klopfenstein that:
Ordinance No. 2942 entitled: An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Garden Grove establishing the amount of money for paramedic services that must be raised by an ad valorem tax override and the setting of the tax rate of said override, be passed to second reading.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
AWARD A CONTRACT TO RJ NOBLE COMPANY TO PROVIDE MATERIAL, EQUIPMENT, AND LABOR FOR RESIDENTIAL STREETS REHABILITATION 2023, CITY PROJECT NO.
CP1362023 (F: 96.PROJ.CP1362023)
Following staff introduction, and City Council comments, it was moved by Council Member O’Neill, seconded by Council Member DoVinh that:
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A contract be awarded to RJ Noble, Company, in the amount of $1,213,545 for Residential Streets Rehabilitation Project 2023, for the following street segments: Marchand Avenue from Orangewood Avenue to the end; Portia Circle from Marchand Ave nue to the end; Desmond Street from Marchand Ave nue to Orangewood Avenue; Shelley Drive from Magnolia Street to Ardis Drive; Faun Lane from Tristan Drive to Shelley Drive; Clover Lane from Tristan Drive to Shelley Drive; Ardis Drive from Tristan Drive to Shelley Drive; Tristan Drive from Magnolia Street to Ardis Drive; Ferris Lane from Ardis Drive to Loraleen Street; Timothy Lane from Magnolia Street to the end; Marylee Drive from Magnolia Street to Timothy Lane ; Loraleen Street from Chapman Ave nue to the end; Florence Lane from Loraleen Street to the end; Cellini Ave nue from Loraleen Street to Gilbert Street; Shannon Avenue from the cul de sac to Gilbert Street; Skylark Boulevard from the cul de sac to Gilbert Street; and four alleyways within the bounds of the project; and that The City Manager, or her designee, be authorized to execute the contract with RJ Noble Company, and make minor modifications as appropriate thereto, on behalf of the City.
The motion carried by a 6-0-1 vote as follows:
Ayes: (6) O’Neill, Tran, DoVinh, Klopfenstein, Nguyen,
Brietigam
Noes: (0) None
Absent: (1) Jones
MATTERS FROM THE MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS, AND CITY MANAGER
UPDATE ON THE CIVIC CENTER REVITALIZATION PROJECT AS REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER KIM (F: 55-PROJECT FINANCE ADVISORY)
City Manager Kim introduced Ms. Caroline Judy consultant with Project Finance Advisory Limited (PFAL) and Mr. Craig Beck, Interim Community & Economic Development Director, who provided introductory comments with Ms. Judy providing a PowerPoint presentation on the update to the Civic Center project.
Ms. Judy noted that Phase 2 of the project is expected to be complete by the end of August and will be entering Phase 3. To date, Phase 1 included community outreach to ascertain the goals and objectives for the overall project. Review of potential locations, with the optimal location within the Civic Center area, were identified.
Consideration was given to building mass and height in relation to the area, and input from the community, the City Council, and Public Safety being considered for the design. The CEQA process has started, and an RFQ schedule will be coming soon.
There have been eleven well-placed firms that have shown interest in the project.
The next phase will be to review the evaluation criteria of the RFQ, as well as finalizing how the project will be funded. Community engagement during this project will be on-going. Staff will be present to gather input from the community at the City’s
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summer events. Every step of the way, costs will be evaluated through the design and construction process. All eleven firms are committed to an open book process, which is important for getting value for the tax payers. DHARAM Consulting will oversee the cost management throughout the design and build of the project.
Currently, documents being developed are the request for proposals, the exclusive negotiating agreement, and the development agreement that are being reviewed by outside counsel as well as the City Attorney. The Performance Specification addresses every aspect of the essential design requirements and communicate the City’s expectation of the performance of the public safety building, including the parking structure and adjacent park.
Council Member Nguyen commented that even though it is still early in the process, she would like consideration of the K-9 unit and dog friendly spaces , as well as consideration for the different types of employees and need for providing lactation rooms in the design of the public safety building.
Council Member Klopfenstein expressed the need for lactation rooms be located near the women’s locker room that offer a safe and stress -free environment, and that creating a safe space for young children and families is meaningful. She noted the robust schedule for community outreach and informative education on the Civic Center Project to take place during the City’s summer events. She commented that the Civic Center Park holds many memories for her and her daughter and is weaved into the fabric of her life as is for many who live in and around the area. With that, to have slogan materials that read “My Best Memories of this P ark” really captures what people are feeling and to then take this sentiment into this build and memorialize those feelings of connection is important.
Council Member O’Neill stated he is very satisfied with the progress so far, noting the need to consider longer term concerns such as future growth.
Council Member DoVinh is pleased that the project is on track and that he will be watching to ensure there are no unanticipated cost overruns. He noted he toured the Orange County Supervisor’s building with City Manager Kim, and that PFAL was the consultant for that project as well. He expressed how impressed he was with the county project and would like to have that same level of design for Garden Grove.
He is a proponent of public spaces for public art that he would like to see incorporated into the build design.
Council Member Tran noted that this project is going to be an iconic structure that will be here for many years. She encouraged residents to attend the City’s summer events and to visit the PFAL booth to get more information on the Civic Center Project.
Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam expressed his appreciation for furthering this project along, noting it has been a long time coming. He thanked Ms. Judy for the work and stated he looks forward to the next update.
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Interim Community & Economic Development Director, Craig Beck, estimated the next update to be at the end of July or early August with a finalized RFQ. Review of the RFQ and a recommendation for the City Council is estimated for Fall 2023.
Following approval by the City Council of an exclusive negotiating agreement, a development agreement and funding plan would be brought to the City Council, which would precipitate the final design decision and commencement of the construction.
MATTERS FROM THE MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS, AND CITY MANAGER (Continued)
Council Member Tran noted that as the Library Advisory Board Representative, she attended the second quarter meeting where the Board was asked to approve the budget. However, no details were provided and she was not willing to approve the budget without being fully informed. Other Board members expressed the same concern, and she along with two other members abstained from voting. She shared this information to note the reason for her abstention, and the Library Administrators have said they will provide detailed budget information. She expressed her wish to provide more events at the library for residents, and announced the Grab & Go Free Lunch program for children and teens 18 and under at the Garden Grove Regional and Chapman branch libraries from June 15, 2023, through July 23, 2023. She noted the recent ribbon cutting events she has recently attended including September Café, and commented on her wish to promote businesses with these kinds of events. She encouraged local businesses to reach out to the City and the Chamber of Commerce to learn about available programs.
She commented on her proactive approach with legislative leaders who have communicated to her that grant funding for parks is available, and she encouraged staff to look into obtaining grant funds.
Council Member DoVinh expressed his pride in the budget the City Council adopted, noting that the results of implementing the budget will be felt by the residents with improved infrastructure and roads, as well as the tri-city collaborative Navigation Center in which the next two years will be focused efforts assisting the unhoused.
He also expressed pride in all of the young people who were recognized at tonight’s meeting who he sees as future leaders. He praised the Orange County Multicultural Center’s grand opening he attended and its leadership, and he hopes that people will access the services they provide and volunteer to serve. He noted that he attended the grand opening for the September Café on Bolsa, and he congratulated the owners for a very festive event. He noted Little Saigon, founded 35 years ago and shared between the cities of Westminster and Garden Grove, recently celebrated the hanging of the signs identifying Little Saigon that was attended by Council Members Nguyen and Tran and City Manager Kim. He expressed the need for recognizing the Vietnamese community and the need for inclusive celebrations such as the Arirang Festival. He credited the former City Council for working hard towards providing a balanced budget, as well as staff compiling an itemized budget report, noting that when he ran for office his platform was transparency, accountability, and fiscal conservatism, which are all reflected in this budget. He
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stated that he would like to give people who are unable to attend meetings to have an opportunity to call in during the public comment period.
Council Member Klopfenstein noted that on Friday night, she attended the 25th anniversary of the Community Foundation, and that she has been a board member for several years and is honored to be the Foundation’s Board Vice President. The celebration focused on everything the Foundation has achieved and what they would like to achieve. The Foundation has done so much to enhance the quality of life for the community, and it was great to see so many residents including Council Members Nguyen and Tran attend the concert at the Amphitheater in celebration of the anniversary. The Community Foundation sponsors the summer concerts, with the first concert to be held at Garden Grove Park, on Main Street and Eastgate Park. For times and dates, visit the City’s website or the Foundation’s website at ggc.com/summerconcertseries.
Council Member Nguyen has received complaints regarding encampments at the freeway overpass between Harbor Boulevard and Fairview Street. She has seen the encampments on CalTrans property, and asked that City staff continue reminding CalTrans to resolve this issue. She has also heard from several residents regarding parking issues on Garden Grove Boulevard at Simon Street, and she asked that this be addressed. She noted that the Navigation Center is in District 6, and that she is pleased that it’s underway and will soon be operating. She thanked staff and the Police Department for all of their work on this project. She was also pleased that her council colleagues from Garden Grove, Fountain Valley, and Westminster as well as the City Managers and Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do attended the Navigation Center’s ground breaking event. She asked that consideration be given to pay a stipend to the City’s commissioners in the future, particularly the Planning Commissioners who meet twice a month and review land use entitlements. As little as $50 per meeting may be a good incentive to get more applicants able to participate. She commented on the necessity for providing public notices, specifically notices pertaining to the Sanitary District Assessments, in multiple languages.
Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam encouraged Garden Grove residents to send emails to their council members letting them know when they or a family member are hitting the milestone birthdays from 80 years and beyond, and that the City will send them a Certificate of Recognition; a recognition program he started four years ago. He noted the very successful ground breaking for the Navigation Center and how pleased he is that this is coming to fruition, which provides a tool to address the homeless compassionately by offering shelter with wraparound services.
Council Member DoVinh commented on the ground breaking for the Brookhurst Plaza Phase 2 and expressed appreciation for the Building and Planning staff on their work moving this project forward. He also commented that he would like to see internal promotions practiced barring a persuasive reason. Lastly, he offered prayers and well wishes for Mayor Jones and his family and hopes to see him back on the dais very soon.
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City Manager Kim noted there are still openings for the Workforce Activation and Readiness Program (WARP) workshop, Wednesday, June 28, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Community Meeting Center. WARP is an employment development program for building skills needed to obtain and maintain employment. The Workshop includes presentations from service providers OCAPICA and Stand Up for Kids, and attendees will be entered into a raffle. Register for this event at ggcity.org/warp. She thanked the City Council for their leadership and guidance as work advances on the Navigation Center. Periodic updates will be provided as the project progresses, with an anticipated Spring 2024 Ribbon Cutting event.
City Attorney Sandoval announced that there is no reportable action on the Closed Session matters.
ADJOURNMENT
At 9:32 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Brietigam adjourned the meeting. The next Regular City Council Meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the Community Meeting Center, 11300 Stanford Avenue, Garden Grove, California.
Teresa Pomeroy
City Clerk