Agenda packet — Glendale City Council, February 28, 2023

A G E N D A

GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL

COUNCIL CHAMBERS
613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor
Glendale, CA 91206
Meetings

are

broadcast

live

Glendale

TV,

viewable

Spectrum

Cable,

channel

and

AT&T

U-
verse,

channel

99. Meetings

are

also

streamed

live

high

definition

(HD)

the

city's

webpage,
glendaleca.gov/live
,

YouTube.com/myglendale
,

and

Apple

TV,

Roku,

and

Amazon

Fire
devices

using

free

app

called

Screenweave

and

choosing

“Glendale

TV”

from

the

menu.

Meetings
are

also

archived

the

City

Website

for

viewing

anytime

glendaleca.gov/agendas
.

Call

(818)
548-4013

for

program

schedules.

DVDs

the

proceedings

are

available

for

purchase

the

City
Clerk's

Office.

For

public

comments

and

questions

during

the

meeting,

call

(818)

937-8100.

Public
comments

specific

agenda

item

will

taken

when

that

agenda

item

discussed.

you

have
any

question

about

matters

the

agenda,

requests

for

assistance,

please

contact

the

City

Clerk
at (818) 548-2090 during regular business hours.

PLEASE TURN OFF CELLULAR PHONES WHILE INSIDE THE MEETING LOCATION In

compliance

with

the

Americans

with

Disabilities

Act

(ADA)

1990,

auxiliary

hearing

aids,

sign
language

translation,

and

Braille

transcripts

are

available

upon

request.

Assisted

listening

devices
are

available

same-day

upon

request.

least

48 hours

(or

two

business

days)

notice

required

for
requests

regarding

sign

language

translation

and

Braille

transcription

services.

All

documents
related

open

session

items

this

agenda

that

are

received

less

than

72 hours

prior

this
meeting,

and

are

public

records,

will

available

for

review

the

Office

the

City

Clerk,

613

Broadway, RM 110, Glendale, CA 91206.

Translation

services

are

provided

for

meetings

through

the

use

bilingual

staff

for

speakers

who
wish

utilize

the

service

available.

Speakers

should

state

their

request

contacting

the

City
Clerk’s

office

(818)

548-2090,

least

24 hours

prior

the

scheduled

meeting.

Please

specify
the

language

for

which

you

require

translation.

The

exclusive

use

City

provided

interpreters

not
required and persons are welcome to use their own interpreter or speak in their native language.

FEBRUARY 28, 2023

ROLL CALL

1. CLOSED SESSION
– 1:00 PM ( To Commence at 3:00 PM)
a.

Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation: Leeper v. City of Glendale, L.A.S.C. Case No. BC708092
b.

Public Employment - Attorneys

1 TYPED 2/23/2023 7:27:54 AM
02 28 23
CC

2. REGULAR BUSINESS AGENDA
– 6:00 PM
Roll Call
a.

Flag Salute: Mayor Ardy Kassakhian
b.

Invocation: Suzie Abajian, City Clerk
c.

Report of City Clerk, re: Posting of Agenda. The Agenda for the February 28, 2023 Regular Meeting of the Glendale City Council was Posted on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, on the Bulletin Board Outside City Hall.

3. PRESENTATIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
a.

Agenda Preview for the Meetings of Tuesday, March 7, 2023 b.

Air Quality Updates Presentation by South Coast Air Quality Management District Governing Board Member Vice Chair-Elect Michael Cacciotti

City Clerk, re: Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of February 7, 2023 and Regular City Council, Special City Council, and Joint City Council and Housing Authority Meetings of February 14, 2023
b.

Fire Department, re: Funding from Hazard Mitigation Grant for Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

1. Motion to approve to authorize the City Manager to accept Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HGMP) funds in the amount of $28,000, and to execute the necessary agreements, certifications, and other documents required to accept the grant funds

2. Approve Resolution of Appropriation

5. CITY COUNCIL/STAFF COMMENTS

6. COMMUNITY EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS (3-Minutes)

7. ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES

8. ACTION ITEMS
a.

City Attorney, re: Amendment to Glendale Municipal Code to Remove Commercial Parking Permits and to Update Parking Permit Fees for Large Vehicles, Boats, and Personal Watercraft

1. Introduction of Ordinance deleting Section 10.36.100 and amending Section

10.36.140 of the Glendale Municipal Code, 1995, to remove parking permits for commercial vehicles and to update parking permit fees for large vehicles, boats, and personal watercraft

2 TYPED 2/23/2023 7:27:54 AM
02 28 23
CC

Management Services, re: Potential Ban On The Use of Gas-Powered Landscaping Equipment or Two-Stroke Gas Engines

1. Motion providing direction to staff regarding the scope of a potential ban on the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment or two-stroke gas engines and direction on ordinance enforcement

9. HEARINGS

10. REPORTS - INFORMATION

11. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

12. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Discussion is Limited to Items NOT a Part of this Agenda. Each Speaker is Allowed 5 minutes.

Council May Question or Respond to The Speaker But There Will be no Debate or Decision.

The City Manager May Refer the Matter to the Appropriate Department for Investigation and Report.

13. NEW BUSINESS

14. ADJOURNMENT

3 TYPED 2/23/2023 7:27:54 AM
02 28 23
CC

1 4A

A G E N D A

GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL

COUNCIL CHAMBERS
613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor Glendale, CA 91206
FEBRUARY 7, 2023
ROLL CALL – All Present

1. CLOSED SESSION – 3:11 p.m.
a. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation: Significant exposure litigation pursuant to paragraph subdivisions (d)(2) and (e)(2) of Section 54956.9:

One (1) potential case
City Attorney Mike Garcia indicated that action is not anticipated. Council recessed to Closed Session at 3:12 p.m.

2. REGULAR BUSINESS AGENDA – 6:04 PM
Roll Call – All Present
a. Flag Salute: Cub scout Pack 360 - Arrow of Light Den b. Invocation: Suzie Abajian, City Clerk
c. Report of City Clerk, re: Posting of Agenda. The Agenda for the February 7, 2023 Regular Meeting of the Glendale City Council was Posted on Thursday, February 2, 2023, on the Bulletin Board Outside City Hall.

3. PRESENTATIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
Agenda out of order. Item 3b read next.
a. Agenda Preview for the Meetings of Tuesday, February 14, 2023 Asst. City Manager John Takhtalian provided the preview. b. Commendation for Battalion Chief Todd Tucker and Police Sergeant Sharon Kim

4. CONSENT ITEMS (Including Minutes)
The following are Routine and May be Acted Upon by One Motion. Any Member of Council or the Audience Requesting Separate Consideration May do so by Making Such Request Before Motion is Proposed.
a. City Clerk, re: Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings of January 31, 2023
Moved: Devine Seconded: Brotman
Asatryan, Brotman, Devine, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
None
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
4 of 49

2 4A
b. Libraries, Arts, and Culture, re: Agreement for Grandview Building Forward grant

1. Motion authorizing the City Manager or a designee to execute all agreements, amendments, certifications, and documents necessary to accept and implement the funding
Moved: Devine Seconded: Brotman

5. CITY COUNCIL/STAFF COMMENTS
Mayor Kassakhian and his colleagues attended the League of California Cities Conference where discussions took place about new laws and the housing challenges that many cities face. He also attended the Independent Cities Association Annual Winter Conference where he heard a presentation by LA County Sheriff Luna. On January 25th, Kassakhian attended an event organized by the Armenian National Committee and LA for All where a discussion took place on Armenophobia. He stated that although Armenians have been classified as Caucasians, they have historically faced and continue to face discrimination and hate speech.

He mentioned the recent incident during a demonstration protest on the streets of West Los Angeles in Beverly Hills where protesters came across posted flyers along their path that contained hate speech directed towards Armenians. He hoped that the City of Beverly Hills will properly address this incident and expressed his disappointment in the way in which this was classified by their police department as protected speech under the First Amendment rather than hate speech. Kassakhian asked the City to reach out to the County Supervisor’s Office and departments in Los Angeles to discuss how to enlighten and educate people so these acts of hate, whether targeting the Armenian Community or any other community, are not tolerated.

Councilmember Najarian spoke to the Vice-Mayor of the City of Beverly Hills and expressed his disappointment regarding the acts of hate that occurred during the protest. Unfortunately, the vice-mayor stated that although the flyers were hateful, they were protected under the First Amendment. Najarian stated that the City of Beverly Hills did put out a statement, but it was not a strong one. He explained that the City of Beverly Hill’s response was especially disappointing given that their current City Manager was a former City of Glendale department head and should have had a clear understanding of what a threat of genocide means to Armenians. Najarian indicated that perhaps Glendale City Council should send a letter to the Mayor and City Manager of Beverly Hills asking them to put out stronger statements condemning these acts.

Councilmember Asatryan joined her colleagues in condemning the acts that took place in Beverly Hills. She stated that the statement released by the Beverly Hills Police Department was inadequate and unacceptable, and that it behooves all leaders to take a strong stance on acts of hate, regardless of whether or not they believe that something is classified as freedom of speech. Asatryan drafted a letter but has not had a chance to send it to the City of Beverly Hills. She joins her colleagues in the call for Glendale City Council to demand more from the City of Beverly Hills. She noted that there was another incident where the City Manager of Beverly Hills inappropriately categorized events impacting the Armenian Community and had to apologize after Councilmember Asatryan pointed her error.

Asatryan, Brotman, Devine, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
None
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
5 of 49

3 Kassakhian went to an event hosted by the Homenetmen Ararat Chapter where there was a screening of a documentary called “What will become of us.” It was about the Armenian community and how it has coped with the trauma of the genocide. The documentary was made by an Armenian-American filmmaker and a Jewish filmmaker. Kassakhian asked the Jewish filmmaker why he directed this documentary about Armenians. The director responded by talking about the commonalities between the Jewish and Armenian experience and how justice denied to one community impacts all communities. Kassakhian talked about the need for people to speak out and remind others of the history of these atrocities so that they don’t repeat. He also added that speaking up is important so that people who commit acts of hate, such as the ones in Beverly Hills, are not emboldened by our silence.

Councilmember Devine expressed her regrets regarding the events that took place in the City of Beverly Hills and stated that these acts of hatred were unacceptable, and she hoped that the City of Glendale can speak up about it. She nominated Roland Kedikian for the Glendale Water and Power Commission. Devine commended and thanked Senator Portantino for holding a town hall meeting on gun violence, safety, and trauma, in the wake of the mass shooting that happened in the City of Monterey Park. She stated that what she learned from this townhall was that there are currently 400,000 firearms in the U.S. and the most dangerous aspect of mass violence is the accessibility of guns at home. She also talked about the importance of storing and locking up firearms in a safe place. Devine mentioned that it is important to report suspicious activities and for law enforcement to identify individuals who should not own guns. She asked the public to call #988 if they knew anyone who was in a mental crisis. Devine, Police Chief Sid, and Mayor Kassakhian attended an event where six young women became the inaugural class of female eagle scouts for the Homenetmen Ararat Chapter.

Councilmember Brotman echoed the comments made by other councilmembers regarding the incident in Beverly Hills and was disturbed to hear that there was not a strong response by the City of Beverly Hills. He indicated that he will join his colleagues on the council in sending a letter to the City of Beverly Hills to demand a stronger response. Brotman received a letter asking why the city does not have a turf rebate program. He stated the city does have one and asked staff to feature it prominently on the website to get the message out to the public.

Brotman mentioned that the City of Los Angeles’ turf rebate program increased to $5.00 per square foot while the City of Glendale’s is $2.00 per square foot. He asked staff to provide a memo on the effectiveness of increasing the rebate amount in Glendale’s turf rebate program.

Brotman attended the Independent Cities Association meeting and learned about PFAS (a class of chemicals that are used in fire-fighting foams and food ware that can have lasting consequences on our health). According to the meeting, these chemicals can be found in the water supply of cities that have the following: water utilities, wastewater treatment plant, landfill, and airport. He asked staff to learn more about the impacts of PFAS on our water supply and what our city can do to help alleviate these conditions that impact our water supply.

6. COMMUNITY EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS (3-Minutes)
Chad Kroeger
JT Parr

7. ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES
6 of 49

4 8. ACTION ITEMS
a. Community Development, re: Direction Regarding Downtown Specific Plan Hotel Incentives
Staff Comment:

Roubik Golanian, City Manager
Michael Garcia, City Attorney
Presenting:

Bradley Calvert, Director of Community Development
Public Comments:

Danielle Wilson, Local 11 Union
Isabel Valencia

1. Motion providing specific direction to staff to amend the Downtown Specific Plan hotel incentives
Moved: Brotman Seconded: Asatryan

9. HEARINGS

10. REPORTS - INFORMATION
a. Public Works: Presentation of CIP Bi-Yearly Update and Accomplishments Presenting:

Yazdan Emrani, Director of Public Works
Staff Comment:

Sarkis Oganesyan, Deputy Director of Public Works
Pastor Casanova, Principal Traffic Engineer
Roubik Golanian, City Manager
Kassakhian asked staff to provide a report on the Clean Mobility Options Vouchers program, ideally for bike sharing. Asatryan seconded.

11. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

12. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Discussion is Limited to Items NOT a Part of this Agenda. Each Speaker is Allowed 5 minutes. Council May Question or Respond to The Speaker But There Will be no Debate or Decision. The City Manager May Refer the Matter to the Appropriate Department for Investigation and Report.

Giulliano Prieto
Allen Dish
Asatryan, Brotman, Devine, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
None
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
7 of 49

5 13. NEW BUSINESS

14. ADJOURNMENT-8:38 p.m.

Moved: Asatryan Seconded: Brotman
Mayor of the City of Glendale
City Clerk of the City of Glendale
8 of 49

1 Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
4A

M I N U T E S

GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL

COUNCIL CHAMBERS
613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor Glendale, CA 91206
FEBRUARY 14, 2023
ROLL CALL – Absent: Devine

1. CLOSED SESSION – 3:47 p.m.
a. Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation: Leeper v. City of Glendale, L.A.S.C. Case No. BC708092
b. Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation: Muradyan v. City of Glendale, L.A.S.C. Case No. 21STCV22558
c. Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation: Glenoaks Canyon Homeowners’ Association v. City of Glendale, L.A.S.C. Case No. 22STCP00114 d. Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation: Nadimyan v. City of Glendale, L.A.S.C. Case No. 19STCV29013
City Attorney Mike Garcia indicated that action is not anticipated. Council recessed to closed session at 3:49 p.m.

2. REGULAR BUSINESS AGENDA – 6:07 PM
Roll Call – Absent: Devine
a. Flag Salute: Mayor Kassakhian
b. Invocation: Associate Pastor Stephanie Rice of First United Methodist Church c. Report of City Clerk, re: Posting of Agenda. The Agenda for the February 14, 2023 Regular Meeting of the Glendale City Council was Posted on February 8, 2023 on the Bulletin Board Outside City Hall.

3. PRESENTATIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
a. Agenda Preview for the Meetings of Tuesday, February 21, 2023 Regular meetings have been cancelled and will resume on February 28, 2023.

4. CONSENT ITEMS (Including Minutes)
The following are Routine and May be Acted Upon by One Motion. Any Member of Council or the Audience Requesting Separate Consideration May do so by Making Such Request Before Motion is Proposed.
a. Finance, re: Designation of Authorized Representatives for FEMA and Cal OES Disaster Assistance

1. Resolution 23-14 to designate City Manager, Director of Finance & Information Technology, and Deputy Director of Finance as authorized representatives to apply and obtain disaster assistance from FEMA and Cal OES when major disasters strike
Moved: Brotman Seconded: Asatryan
9 of 49

2 Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:

Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
b. Information Technology Department, re: Appropriation of Local Agency Technical Assistance Grant funds to provide a comprehensive conceptual broadband design plan for the Unserved and Underserved Communities in the City of Glendale

1. Motion accepting $497,638 in Local Agency Technical Assistance grant funds from the California Public Utilities Commission for development of design engineering to provide a comprehensive conceptual design plan to provide broadband service to the unserved and underserved households and businesses in the City of Glendale Moved: Brotman Seconded: Asatryan

2. Resolution 23-15 of Appropriation
Moved: Brotman Seconded: Asatryan
c. Public Works, re: Professional Services Agreement (PSA) for On-Call Engineering Services

1. Motion authorizing the City Manager or a designee to enter into and execute Professional Services Agreements (PSA) for a duration of three years from the date of the contract execution with an option to extend the contract for an additional two-year term, with the firms and in the amounts as listed below:
a.David Evans and Associates, Inc., Parsons Transportation Group Inc., and Psomas, to provide On-Call Professional Civil Engineering Services, $730,000 each for an initial three years and $730,000 each for an optional additional two- year extension
b.MNS Engineers, Inc., and Psomas, to provide On-Call Professional Land Surveying Services, $350,000 each for an initial three years and $350,000 each for an optional additional two-year extension
c.Advantec Consulting Engineers, Inc., Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., and KOA Corporation, to provide On-Call Professional Traffic Engineering Services, $500,000 each for an initial three years and $500,000 each for an optional additional two-year extension
d.Nabih Youssef & Associates, to provide On-Call Professional Structural Engineering Services, $300,000 for an initial three years and $300,000 for an optional additional two-year extension
e.Ninyo & Moore, RMA Group, and Twining, Inc., to provide On-Call Professional Geotechnical, Soil Engineering, and Material Testing Services, $255,000 each for an initial three years and $255,000 each for an optional additional two-year extension
f.Mark Thomas & Company, Inc., MARRS Services, Inc., and NV5, Inc., to provide On-Call Professional Construction Management and Inspection Services, $500,000 each for an initial three years and $500,000 each for an optional additional two-year extension
10 of 49

3 Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
g.NV5, Inc., to provide On-Call Professional Land Development Plan Review Services, $300,000 for an initial three years and $300,000 for an optional additional two-year extension
h.Psomas, to provide On-Call Professional GIS Services, $200,000 for an initial three years and $200,000 for an optional additional two-year extension Moved: Brotman Seconded: Asatryan

5. CITY COUNCIL/STAFF COMMENTS
Councilmembers wished everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Councilmember Asatryan asked staff for a report on providing financial assistance to residents who are struggling to pay their electricity bills. She also asked if GWP can work together with SoCal Gas to come up with a plan for not shutting-off gas for residential properties that are late or unable to pay their bills. She inquired whether SoCal Gas had payment plans to assist residents with their gas bills. City Manager Roubik Golanian explained that the City of Glendale has no jurisdiction over SoCal Gas Company and their operations but staff can provide a report on how the City might be able to help its low income residents with their GWP bills. He also mentioned that the City currently has financial assistance programs for seniors. Asatryan emphasized the importance of addressing this issue by having additional programs that would assist a larger portion of the population with the recent spike in prices and asked for a staff report. Kassakhian seconded.

Councilmember Brotman announced that the City will terminate the Local State of Emergency Pertaining to COVID-19, effective February 28, 2023. He stated that his long- term approach in assisting low-income residents with their gas bill is to find ways to replace their gas appliances for electric ones, which will reduce their cost over time and would also be a healthier option.

Mayor Kassakhian stated that a couple of residents complained to him about the street lighting situation and an increase in larceny at the 2900 block of Piedmont. He asked staff to look into improving the lighting in that area to make it safer. He also mentioned that he attended the Metropolitan Water District board meeting where climate change was discussed.

6. COMMUNITY EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS (3-Minutes)
Marisol Espinoza, SoCal Gas
Edith Fuentes
Herbert Molano
Dan Morhaim, M.D.

Tom O'Shaughnessy

7. ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES
11 of 49

4 Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:

Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:

8. ACTION ITEMS
a. Public Works, re: Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) Installation Phase 2 Project
Presenting:

Pastor Casanova, Principal Traffic Engineer
Staff Comment:

Roubik Golanian, City Manager

1. Motion awarding a construction contract to Elecnor Belco Electric, Inc., in the amount of $1,568,775, approving a 15 percent contingency in the amount of $235,316, rejecting all other bids, and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the contract
Moved: Najarian Seconded: Asatryan

2. Resolution 23-16 of appropriation to appropriate funds in the amount of $1,960,969 for the Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) Installation Phase 2
Moved: Najarian Seconded: Asatryan

9. HEARINGS

10. REPORTS – INFORMATION

11. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

Karen Kwak
Steve Dunwoody
Liz Radley
Kassakhian asked staff to provide a report on an MOU and utilize the City of Glendale resources to police a strip of land by the Riverside Rancho area that belongs to the City of Los Angeles that is adjacent to Glendale and the riverbank of Los Angeles. Asatryan and Brotman seconded.
12 of 49

5 13. NEW BUSINESS

14. ADJOURNMENT – 7:12 p.m.

Moved: Brotman Seconded: Najarian
City Clerk of the City of Glendale
Mayor of the City of Glendale
13 of 49

1 M I N U T E S
SPECIAL MEETING: GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL

COUNCIL CHAMBERS
613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor Glendale, CA 91206
FEBRUARY 14, 2023
The Special Public Meeting of the Glendale City Council convened in the City Hall Council Chambers, in said City, at 3:25 p.m. on the above date, pursuant to a call for such meeting signed by the City Clerk of the City Council, and on file with the City Clerk, a copy of which is as follows:

February 8, 2023
Date
A SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING of the City Council is hereby called to meet at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, in the Council Chamber, 613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor, Glendale, CA 91206 to consider the following item(s) of business, to wit;

1.Development, re: Dispense with Public Bidding for Maintenance and Repairs of the Historic Neon Marquee at the Alex Theatre
a.Resolution dispensing with the competitive bidding procedures required by Glendale Charter, Article VI, Section 9 and authorizing the Purchasing Administrator to solicit bids and execute a contract for specialized maintenance and repairs of the historic neon marquee at the Alex Theatre

2.City Attorney, re: Termination of Local COVID-19 Emergency a.Resolution Terminating Local State of Emergency Pertaining to COVID-19, effective February 28, 2023
Written Notice of said meeting was given, which Notice consisted of a copy of the foregoing Call, and was served on each Member of the Council not joining in the Call, and upon the in said City not less than 24 hours before the time fixed in said Call for said meeting, as follows:

Upon Elen Asatryan at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2023 Glendale, CA Upon Dan Brotman at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2023 Glendale, CA Upon Paula Devine at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2023 Glendale, CA Upon Ara Najarian at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2023 Glendale, CA Upon Ardy Kassakhian at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2023 Glendale, CA Mayor Kassakhian called the meeting to order at 3:25 p.m.

ROLL CALL
- Absent: Devine
- Report of the City Clerk of the City Council, re: Posting of Agenda. The Agenda for the Tuesday, February 14, 2023 Special Public Meeting of the City Council was posted on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, on the Bulletin Board Outside City Hall

1. Development, re: Dispense with Public Bidding for Maintenance and Repairs of the Historic Neon Marquee at the Alex Theatre
Presenting:

Roubik Golanian, City Manager
Tamar Sadd, Principal Administrative Officer
14 of 49

2 Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:

Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
a. Resolution 23-12 dispensing with the competitive bidding procedures required by Glendale Charter, Article VI, Section 9 and authorizing the Purchasing Administrator to solicit bids and execute a contract for specialized maintenance and repairs of the historic neon marquee at the Alex Theatre Moved: Najarian Seconded: Asatryan

2. City Attorney, re: Termination of Local COVID-19 Emergency Presenting:

Michael Garcia, City Attorney
Soua Vang, Deputy Director of Community Development
a. Resolution 23-13 Terminating Local State of Emergency Pertaining to COVID-19, effective February 28, 2023
Moved: Asatryan Seconded: Brotman
ADJOURNMENT- 3:45 p.m.

Moved: Asatryan Seconded: Brotman
Mayor of the City of Glendale
City Clerk of the City of Glendale
15 of 49

1 4A

M I N U T E S
JOINT MEETING: GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL AND GLENDALE HOUSING AUTHORITY

COUNCIL CHAMBERS
613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor
Glendale, CA 91206
FEBRUARY 14, 2023
The Joint Meeting of the Glendale City Council and Glendale Housing Authority convened in the City Hal Council Chambers, in said City, at 3:01 p.m. on the above date, pursuant to a call for such meeting signed by the City Clerk of the City Council, and on file with the City Clerk, a copy of which is as follows:

February 8, 2023
Date
A JOINT PUBLIC MEETING of the City Council and Housing Authority is hereby called to meet at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, in the Council Chamber, 613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor, Glendale, CA 91206 to consider the following item(s) of business, to wit;

1.Community Services and Parks, re: FY 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan Substantial Amendment related to the CARES Act funding for ESG-CV1 and ESG-CV2
a.City Council Motion approving the Glendale Continuum of Care (CoC) Board’s recommendation of funding reallocation for the Emergency Solutions Grant – Coronavirus Round 1&2 (ESG-CV1 and CV2) in the amount of $358,000, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); authorizing the City Manager or a designee to execute all agreements, amendments, certifications, and documents necessary to accept and implement the funding recommendations; and authorizing submission of the FY 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan Substantial Amendment to the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development
b.Housing Authority Motion approving the Glendale Continuum of Care (CoC) Board’s recommendation of funding reallocation for the Emergency Solutions Grant – Coronavirus Round 1& 2 (ESG-CV1 and CV2) in the amount of $358,000, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); authorizing the City Manager or a designee to execute all agreements, amendments, certifications, and documents necessary to accept and implement the funding recommendations; and authorizing submission of the FY 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan Substantial Amendment to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Written Notice of said meeting was given, which Notice consisted of a copy of the foregoing Call, and was served on each Member of the Council not joining in the Call, and upon the in said City not less than 24 hours before the time fixed in said Call for said meeting, as follows:

Upon Robert Adjinian at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2022 Glendale, CA Upon Elen Asatryan at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2022 Glendale, CA Upon Dan Brotman at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2022 Glendale, CA Upon Paula Devine at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2022 Glendale, CA Upon Ara Najarian at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2022 Glendale, CA Upon Laura Parazian at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2022 Glendale, CA Upon Ardy Kassakhian at 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2022 Glendale, CA Mayor Kassakhian called the meeting to order at 3:01 p.m. 16 of 49

2 ROLL CALL
- Absent: Devine
- Report of the City Clerk of the City Council and Housing Authority, re: Posting of Agenda. The Agenda for the Tuesday, February 14, 2023, joint public meeting of the City Council and Housing Authority was posted on Thursday, February 8, 2023, on the Bulletin Board outside City Hall.

1. Community Services and Parks, re: FY 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan Substantial Amendment related to the CARES Act funding for ESG-CV1 and ESG-CV2
Staff Comment:

Roubik Golanian, City Manager
Presenting:

Arsine Isayan, Homeless Programs Manager
a. City Council Motion approving the Glendale Continuum of Care (CoC) Board’s recommendation of funding reallocation for the Emergency Solutions Grant – Coronavirus Round 1&2 (ESG-CV1 and CV2) in the amount of $358,000, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); authorizing the City Manager or a designee to execute all agreements, amendments, certifications, and documents necessary to accept and implement the funding recommendations; and authorizing submission of the FY 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan Substantial Amendment to the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development
Moved: Asatryan Seconded: Brotman
Vote as Follows
b. Housing Authority Motion approving the Glendale Continuum of Care (CoC) Board’s recommendation of funding reallocation for the Emergency Solutions Grant – Coronavirus Round 1& 2 (ESG-CV1 and CV2) in the amount of $358,000, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); authorizing the City Manager or a designee to execute all agreements, amendments, certifications, and documents necessary to accept and implement the funding recommendations; and authorizing submission of the FY 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan Substantial Amendment to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Moved: Kassakhian Seconded: Parazian
Vote as Follows
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:

Asatryan, Brotman, Najarian, Kassakhian
None
Devine
None
Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:

Adjinian, Asatryan, Kassakhian, Najarian, Parazian, Brotman None
Devine
None
17 of 49

3 ADJOURNMENT – 3:25 p.m.
- City Council
Moved: Brotman Seconded: Najarian
- Housing Authority
Moved: Kassakhian Seconded: Najarian
Mayor of the City of Glendale
Chair of the Glendale Housing Authority
Clerk of the Glendale Housing Authority
City Clerk of the City of Glendale
18 of 49

CITY OF GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA

REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL

AGENDA ITEM
Report: Funding from Hazard Mitigation Grant for Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update.

2. Approve Resolution of Appropriation

COUNCIL ACTION
Item Type: Consent Calendar
Approved for February 28, 2023 calendar

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) was last updated in 2019. A current plan is required by FEMA to be eligible to receive funding for non-emergency assistance. To avoid the possibility of not having a current plan, we have secured grant funding to assist with the covering of costs to update our current plan prior to its expiration in 2024. 19 of 49

24b
4 0
2 7

COUNCIL PRIORITIES
N/A.

RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council approve the Acceptance of funding from HGMP for updating the LHMP in the amount of $28,000 and Approve the Resolution of Appropriation.

BACKGROUND
The City’s current LHMP was developed in 2019 and will need to be updated prior to October 28, 2024. The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act), requires the city to have a current LHMP to funds related to disaster assistance. In addition, mitigation is most effective when it is based on a comprehensive, long-term plan that is developed before a disaster occurs. Hazard mitigation planning is useful in identifying local policies and actions that can be implemented over the long term to reduce risk and future losses from hazards. These mitigation policies and actions are identified based on an assessment of hazards, vulnerabilities, and risks. As in the previous update, the participation of a wide range of stakeholders and the public will be a part of the planning process.

ANALYSIS
The Stafford Act requires the city to have a current LHMP to be eligible to receive certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance (i.e grant funding). The total cost to update the LHMP is $36,750. Glendale Fire Department was awarded $26,250 for the federal share and $1,750 for management costs. The reminder of $8,750 should be matched by the City.

STAKEHOLDERS/OUTREACH
The Fire Chief, GFD command staff, and the Area C Local Disaster Manager were consulted prior to the application for the grant funds. During the planning process of the plan update the stakeholders that must be included are; neighboring communities, local and regional agencies involved in hazard mitigation activities, and agencies that have the authority to regulate development, as well as businesses, academia, and other private and nonprofit interests. The public will be engaged early to understand community priorities. Although members of the public may not be technical experts, they can help identify community assets and problem areas, describe issues of concern, narrate threat and hazard history, prioritize proposed mitigation alternatives, and provide ideas for continuing public involvement after plan adoption.

FISCAL IMPACT
Updating the LHMP will cost $36,750, which was not included as a part of the FY 2022-23 budget. Therefore, staff is requesting for an appropriation of $28,000 from Federal Grant Revenue. The matching funds in the amount of $8,750 will be absorbed by the Department and therefore no new appropriation is needed for this aspect. The appropriation request is outlined below:
20 of 49

34b
4 0
2 7
Requesting Appropriation
Amount From (Account String) To (Account String) Funding Source $28,000 GL:31240-2650-GFD-
0020-P0000
PL:GFD00954AG
GL:43110-2650-GFD-
0020-P0000
PL:GFD00954AG
Fire Grant Fund –
Federal Grant
Revenue

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW (CEQA/NEPA)
N/A

CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE
This item is exempt from campaign disclosure requirements.

ALTERNATIVES
Council may:

1. Authorize the expensing of funds and approve the resolution of appropriation;

2. Pursue funding for the development of an LHMP update through other revenue sources;

3. Not pursue the LHMP update; or

4. Pursue another alternative not identified by staff.

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
Prepared by:

Jonathan Payne, Fire Captain
Approved by:

Roubik R. Golanian, P.E., City Manager

EXHIBITS/ATTACHMENTS
None.
21 of 49

M O T I O N
Moved by Council Member , seconded by Council Member , that the Council of the City of Glendale hereby authorizes the City Manager or his designee to accept Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds in the amount of $28,000 and execute all necessary agreements, certifications, and other documents to receive the grant funds as outlined in the Report to Council dated February 28, 2023.

Vote as Follows:

Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
22 of 49

23 of 49

CITY OF GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA

REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL

AGENDA ITEM
Report: Amendment to Glendale Municipal Code to Remove Commercial Parking Permits and to Update Parking Permit Fees for Large Vehicles, Boats, and Personal Watercraft

1. Introduction of Ordinance deleting Section 10.36.100 and amending Section 10.36.140 of the Glendale Municipal Code, 1995, to remove parking permits for commercial vehicles and to update parking permit fees for large vehicles, boats, and personal watercraft

COUNCIL ACTION
Item Type: Ordinance
Approved for February 28, 2023 calendar

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Glendale Municipal Code Sections 10.36.100 and 10.36.140 were adopted over 60 years ago, creating permits and establishing fees for the parking of commercial vehicles and large vehicles, respectively. Permits for parking of commercial vehicles have not been issued in modern memory. Permits for large vehicles, which now also include boats and personal watercraft, are still necessary but have obsolete fee amounts contained in the code itself. The proposed ordinance would address both issues. 24 of 49

28a
3 9
2 8

COUNCIL PRIORITIES
N/A

RECOMMENDATION
That the Council adopt the proposed ordinance to clean up the described obsolescence and fee discrepancy.

BACKGROUND
Over 60 years ago, the City introduced parking limitations for commercial vehicles and for large vehicles in residential districts. They also included permit processes and set fees for situations where such parking might be necessary. In 2002, boats and personal watercraft were included into the prohibitions and permitting for large vehicles.

The permit fee, according to the code, is $10. However, at some point a fee was added to the Citywide Fee Schedule for the same permit which currently stands at $50. Since the discrepancy has recently been noted by applicants, the Traffic Bureau of the Glendale Police Department (“GPD”) has reverted to issuing permits for $10 as per code, but desire to fix the discrepancy and modernize the fee, including an update to the current practice of referring to fees as set by resolution of the Council in the Fee Schedule.

Furthermore, upon reviewing the related code provisions in this chapter, it was noted that permits for parking of commercial vehicles have not been issued in current staff's memory. Nor does staff see any value in resuming the obsolete practice, and therefore recommends removal of the permit from the code.

ANALYSIS
GPD’s Traffic Bureau enforces portions of GMC Chapter 10.36 with regard to parking of commercial vehicles and parking of "large" vehicles in residential zones. ("Large" vehicles are defined as "any motor vehicle, house car, recreational vehicle, or trailer, which exceeds eight feet in width or eight feet in height or twenty-three feet in length," and the same permits and prohibitions extend to all boats and personal watercraft, whether on or off a trailer, as well.) The Bureau regularly cites for violations of GMC 10.36.090 (parking of commercial vehicles for over five hours without obvious service necessity) and GMC

10.36.130 (parking of large vehicles over two hours unless being used to complete a service or parking of boats or personal watercraft over two hours unless being loaded or unloaded).

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the City adopted permit provisions alongside both of those prohibitions to allow for more extended parking at the discretion of the Chief of Police, with GPD being the permit issuing authority in both cases. At some point between then and now, the details or use of those permitting provisions fell out of the notice of staff. Additionally, while the use of permits for parking of commercial vehicles has fallen out of use entirely, permits for parking of large vehicles, boats, and personal watercraft in residential zones have continued--though at some point the permit fee was added to the Citywide Fee Schedule without amending the corresponding code provision and currently stands at $50 in the Fee Schedule. In the last three years, the Traffic Bureau has issued 25 of 49

38a
3 9
2 8
between three and six such permits annually, mainly to accommodate the parking of RVs.

Upon recognition of these issues, staff has determined that there exists no modern need to keep or update the commercial parking permit. Staff also recognizes a continued modern need to issue large vehicle/boat/watercraft permits for residential zones.

However, noting the discrepancy between the Fee Schedule and the Municipal Code, staff recommends amending the code in favor of keeping the fee in the Schedule. This would represent a modern rate, more appropriately designed to compensate for corresponding administrative costs for permit issuance and enforcement. It would also make the permit fee more easily updateable by resolution of City Council--rather than the more onerous requirements of an ordinance such as this.

Together, the recommended changes would bring the code in line with current practice.

STAKEHOLDERS/OUTREACH
N/A

FISCAL IMPACT
Permit fees are intended to be fee-neutral, designed to accurately reflect the administrative costs for permit issuance and enforcement. Failure to adopt the proposed ordinance will compel the Traffic Bureau to issue large vehicle/boat/watercraft permits at the code-mandated cost of $10, which is well below the estimated costs associated, therefore creating an extremely small fiscal impact based on the number of permits issued annually. Adoption of the ordinance will return the permit fees to neutrality, negating any such impact.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW (CEQA/NEPA)
The proposed changes have no potential to result in any significant environmental impacts and are therefore exempt from environmental review. (CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3))

CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE
This item is exempt from campaign disclosure requirements.

ALTERNATIVES
Alternative 1: Introduce and adopt the Ordinance. This would update the Glendale Municipal Code to match current practice--removing parking permits for commercial vehicles and relegating fees for large vehicle/boat/watercraft parking permits to the Citywide Fee Schedule at a fee-neutral rate.

Alternative 2: Decline to Adopt the Ordinance. Both permits would remain in their current state in the Glendale Municipal Code and the GPD Traffic Bureau would necessarily issue large vehicle/boat/watercraft parking permits at the insufficient, code-mandated rate.

Alternative 3: The City Council may consider any other alternative not proposed by staff. 26 of 49

48a
3 9
2 8

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
Prepared by:

David Ligtenberg, Assistant City Attorney
Approved by:

Roubik R. Golanian, P.E., City Manager

EXHIBITS/ATTACHMENTS
27 of 49

7 7
6 3
ORDINANCE NO. ____________

AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GLENDALE REMOVING SECTION 10.36.100 AND AMENDING SECTION 10.36.140 OF THE GLENDALE MUNICIPAL CODE, 1995, TO REMOVE PARKING PERMITS FOR COMMERCIAL

VEHICLES AND TO UPDATE PARKING PERMIT FEES FOR LARGE VEHICLES,

BOATS, AND PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
WHEREAS , Glendale Municipal Code sections 10.36.100 and 10.36.140, establishing permit fees and procedures for commercial vehicles and large vehicles, respectively, are over 60 years old; and
WHEREAS , GMC provisions for commercial vehicle parking permits in section 10.36.100 have not been used in current staff’s memory; and WHEREAS , current provisions of GMC section 10.36.140 are in conflict with the Citywide Fee Schedule, specifically with regard to the permit fee for parking of large vehicles, boats, and personal watercraft; and
WHEREAS , confining specific fees to the Fee Schedule, which may be modified by resolution of the City Council, is a more efficient way to maintain such fees; and
WHEREAS , the City Council desires to remove permit provisions for commercial vehicles and amend the code to absolve the fee discrepancy and implement the more-efficient use of the Citywide Fee Schedule,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GLENDALE:

SECTION 1. Section 10.36.100 of the Glendale Municipal Code, 1995, is deleted from the Code in its entirety.

SECTION 2. Section 10.36.140 of the Glendale Municipal Code, 1995, is amended to read as follows:

10.36.140 Parking of large vehicles, boats and personal watercraft—Permit.

A. A permit for the parking of large vehicles, boats or personal watercraft during the time prohibited under section 10.36.130 may be issued by the chief of police or the chief’s representative upon application thereof. Each application shall be filed with the chief of police or the chief’s representative upon a form to be furnished by the city and shall contain the following:
28 of 49

7 7
6 3

1. The name, residence and phone number of the applicant;

2. The license number, make, model and type of vehicle or craft for which the permit is requested;

3. The name and current address of the registered owner of said vehicle or craft;

4. The dates for which the permit is requested. Such dates shall consist of two (2) twenty-four (24) hour periods, to commence in all cases at 6:00 p.m. and to end in all cases at 6:00 p.m. the following day;

5. The application shall be accompanied by a fee of ten dollars ($10.00)an amount to be established or modified by resolution of the City Council, which fee shall be nonrefundable;

6. Such additional information as the chief of police or the chief’s representative may require;

7. The application shall be signed by the applicant under penalty of perjury.

B. The chief of police or the chief’s representative shall issue a permit hereunder if upon investigation the chief of police determines that the health, safety and general welfare of the neighborhood will not be adversely affected thereby. Such permit shall be displayed on the driver’s side dashboard, windshield or instrument panel of the vehicle, boat or personal watercraft for which it is issued.

C. In no event may a permit be issued under this chapter more than once a month for the parking of the same vehicle.

SECTION 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty (30) days after the date of its passage.

Adopted by the Council of the City of Glendale on the _______ day of ________, 2023. ______________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
City Clerk
29 of 49

7 7
6 3

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES) SS.

CITY OF GLENDALE )
I, Suzie Abajian, Ph.D., City Clerk of the City of Glendale, hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was adopted by the Council of the City of Glendale, California, at a regular meeting held on the _______ day of ________________, 2023, and that the same was adopted by the following vote:

Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
____________________________
City Clerk
30 of 49

CITY OF GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA

REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL

AGENDA ITEM
Report: Potential Ban On The Use of Gas-Powered Landscaping Equipment or Two- Stroke Gas Engines

1. Motion providing direction to staff regarding the scope of a potential ban on the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment or two-stroke gas engines and direction on ordinance enforcement.

COUNCIL ACTION
Item Type: Action Item
Approved for February 28, 2023 calendar

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Small Off-Road Engines (SOREs) emit high levels of air pollutants. They are commonly found in landscaping equipment, golf carts, and airport equipment. Thus Assembly Bill 1346 passed prohibiting the sale of such engines in 2024 in California. In October 2022, City Council directed staff to investigate a ban on gas-powered two-stroke engines, ordinance enforcement, and a rebate and incentive program.

Staff conducted research and contacted other cities about implementing an ordinance banning the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment and leaf blowers. Staff also developed an outreach plan and is partnering with the American Green Zone Alliance (AGZA) to have an electric landscaping equipment demonstration event on February 23, 2023.

Upon research, Staff need further direction from City Council regarding the scope of a ban and enforcing the ordinance. Staff recommends that City Council pursues an initial ban on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. As electric landscaping equipment alternatives improve and funding becomes available, City Council can expand the ban to other gas-powered landscaping equipment.
31 of 49

28b
3 9
4 8

COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Environmental Stewardship:

Gas-powered landscaping equipment, two-stroke engines, and other gas-powered Small Off-Road Engines (SOREs) produce high levels of air pollutants that contribute to climate change and affect community health. Action regulating the use of such equipment would impact Glendale’s environment and the health of its community.

RECOMMENDATION
That City Council provide direction on the scope of a ban on the use of gas-powered two-stroke engines and landscaping equipment. If City Council wishes to pursue a ban, staff recommend a phased approach starting with a ban on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.

If City Council wishes to pursue a ban, staff recommend direction on ordinance enforcement including proactive or reactive enforcement, who receives the citation, and the grace period for enforcement.

BACKGROUND
On October 10, 2022, staff presented to City Council seeking direction on whether to investigate a ban on the use of gas-powered small-off road engines (SOREs) and on the scope of such a ban if City Council wanted to pursue a ban. (Exhibit 1).

City Council’s directed staff to investigate a ban on the use of gas-powered two-stroke engines, share an overview of how to enforce a ban, explore the development of an incentive program, and form an outreach and education campaign.

The investigation of a ban on the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment and SOREs is due to the environmental and community impacts of such equipment. SOREs are highly polluting engines1 emitting oxides of nitrogen (NOx), reactive organic gases (ROG), and blowing up particulate matter (PM). One hour of lawn mower use emits as much smog-forming pollution as a 2017 Toyota Camry driving 300 miles, and one hour of leaf blower use is equivalent to driving 1,100 miles2. Equipment use impacts the health of operators, such as asthma and hearing loss. Thus, Assembly Bill 1346 (AB1346)3, bans the sale of gas-powered SOREs, spark-ignition engines rated at or below 19 kilowatts like landscaping equipment, golf carts, and airport equipment, in 2024. Additionally, many cities in California, such as South Pasadena, Berkeley, and Pasadena, ban the use of gas-powered leaf blowers4, while other local cities like 1 https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/sore-small-engine-fact-sheet 2 California Air Resources Board Small Off-Road Engines (SORE) fact sheet 3 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220AB1346 4 https://hdsupplysolutions.com/s/leaf_blower_noise_regulation 32 of 49

38b
3 9
4 8
the City of Ojai5 and the City and County of San Francisco6, ban the use of gas- powered landscaping equipment.

ANALYSIS
Scope of a Ban
Gas-Powered Two-Stroke Engines
At their October 10, 2022 meeting, City Council directed staff to investigate a ban on the use of gas-powered two-stroke engines with exceptions for specialty equipment. Two- stroke engines fire once every revolution, while four-stroke engines fire every other revolution. Four-stroke engines are common in combustion-powered vehicles, such as motorcycles, cars, and lawnmowers. Two-stroke engines are in a wide range of equipment and tools7. In Table 1, two-stroke engines can be found in the following, but are not limited to:

Table 1
Two-Stroke Landscaping Equipment Other Two-Stroke Engines Leaf Blowers Mopeds
Hedge Trimmers Generators
Edgers Golfcarts
Chainsaws Dirt Bikes
Jet Skis
Radio-controlled model planes
Water pumps
Given wide applications of two-stroke engines, regulating the use of gas-powered two- stroke engines would be very difficult. If Council wishes to regulate the use of such equipment citywide, staff recommend a phased approach, regulating the use of gas- powered landscaping equipment, starting with gas-powered leaf blowers. 5 https://ojai.ca.gov/reminder-city-of-ojai-bans-use-of-most-gas-powered-landscaping-equipment-most- construction-prohibited-on-weekends/#gsc.tab=0
6 https://sfbayca.com/2022/03/04/san-francisco-targets-fossil-fuel-powered-landscaping-tools-for-extinction/ 7 https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/engines-equipment/two-stroke.htm 33 of 49

48b
3 9
4 8
Gas-Powered Landscaping Equipment
According to the California Air Resource Board (CARB)8, as of 2021, 61% of SOREs are used in residential lawn and garden use compared to 8% in commercial lawn and garden use. During summer, residential lawn and garden use accounts for 33% of SOREs emissions compared to commercial use producing 20% of SOREs emissions. Thus, regulating the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment can greatly reduce air pollution emissions from SOREs in Glendale.

Still, a ban on all gas-powered landscaping equipment is currently not recommended.

There are electric alternatives to many commonly used landscaping equipment, such as leaf blowers, lawnmowers, trimmers, edgers, and chainsaws. However, it is currently unknown regarding the financial impact and feasibility for businesses to convert their entire equipment suite to electric. For instance, it took under 3-years for the City of Glendale’s Community Services & Parks to transition all parks to handheld electric equipment. However, specialty equipment like sod cutters and ride-on lawnmowers would still be gas-powered. If City Council wishes to pursue such a ban, staff recommend allowing a 2-3 year grace period to provide commercial entities and organizations sufficient time to transition. Additionally, staff recommend that City Council allow for exemptions, such as chainsaws in the use emergency situations, sod cutters, and ride-on lawnmowers.
8 https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/sore-small-engine-fact-sheet Phase 1
Ban on the use of gas-powered
leaf blowers (for commercial and
residential)
Exceptions are for during
emergencies.

Phase 2
Ban on the use of gas-powered
two-stroke landscaping equipment
(for commercial and residential)
Exceptions for leaf blowers and
chainsaws during emergency
situations. Chainsaws can be used
with a permit.

Four-stroke landscaping
equipment such as lawnmowers
are not included.

Phase 3
Ban on the use of all gas-powered
landscaping equipment.

Exceptions are for leaf blowers
and chainsaws during
emergencies.
34 of 49

58b
3 9
4 8
Leaf Blowers
There are multiple alternatives to gas-powered leaf blowers, including electric leaf blowers, rakes, brooms, and leaving yard trimmings and leaving for mulch. Also, on average electric blower9 can be cheaper than a gas-powered leaf blower.

Additionally, this follows the legislative patterns of nearby cities. Pasadena and South Pasadena banned the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. Los Angeles banned the use of leaf blowers. La Canada Flintridge is considering implementing a ban on the use gas- powered leaf blowers, and Burbank may be investigating a ban on the use gas-powered leaf blowers.

City Ban on the use of
Gas-Powered Leaf
Blowers
Ban on the use of
All Leaf Blowers
Ban on the use
of Gas-Powered
Landscaping
Equipment
Pasadena Yes No No
South Pasadena Yes No No
Los Angeles Yes Yes No
Burbank No No No
La Canada
Flintridge
In Consideration No No
Additionally, by initially focusing on leaf blowers allows the City to test out its capacity to handle an increase in battery recycling. Many manufacturers offer warranties on their products varying from 1 to 5 years. Glendale residents can drop off batteries at the Household Hazardous Waste Center. The Small Business Program at the Household Hazardous Waste Center allows businesses to set up an account at a subsidized cost to dispose of hazardous waste10. LA County has four permanent collection centers for hazardous and electronic waste that businesses can access11.

Ordinance Enforcement
Code Enforcement in Other Cities
Enforcing such an ordinance is a major challenge. The nature of landscaping maintenance work is transient, and landscapers provide services throughout various cities. Additionally, a lot of landscaping maintenance work – either done by a contractor or a resident- can be completed in under an hour or up to a couple of hours. Since Glendale’s current Code Enforcement system – and many other cities’- operates 9 https://www.diffen.com/difference/Electric_Leaf_Blower_vs_Gas_Leaf_Blower 10 https://www.glendaleca.gov/government/departments/fire-department/fire-prevention/environmental- management-center/household-hazardous-waste
11 https://dpw.lacounty.gov/epd/hhw/Permanent
35 of 49

68b
3 9
4 8
through violation reporting, a code enforcement officer is unlikely to reach the scene of the violation in time to witness the violation.

Here is how other cities approach enforcement.

City of Ojai
From 2020, the City of Ojai implemented a ban on the use of most-gas-powered landscaping equipment12, including leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, lawn edgers, pole- hedgers trimmers, string trimmers, pole saws, and non-riding lawn mowers. The first citation is $115 and then increases. The cited entity is the contractor or the homeowner using gas equipment. If there are discrepancies with the contractor, the officer sends the citation to the homeowner. The Code Enforcement team also works with Ventura County Sheriff's Department to run plates to send the citation to the appropriate person.

The City of Ojai’s Code Enforcement team utilizes a proactive and reactive approach.

Their team patrols and investigates complaint-based violations. The City of Ojai’s Code Enforcement staff reported positive reception to the ban from many businesses and residents viewing.

City of South Pasadena
The City of South Pasadena implemented a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers in 202113.

The City decided to delay enforcement and focus on education and outreach due to a lack of resources available for landscapers and gardeners. Staff are focused on promoting statewide initiatives and rebates for businesses and individuals. Staff reported that once the City has sufficiently progressed through their outreach plan, they would consider enforcing the ban.

City of West Hollywood
The City of West Hollywood banned gas-powered leaf blowers in the City14 for over 20 years. The City of West Hollywood enforces the ordinance by utilizing reports from the community along with violations spotted while Code Enforcement Officers patrol. In West Hollywood, the responsible party cited is the legal property owner because the gardener is considered an agent of the property owner. West Hollywood's Code Enforcement team works with the County Assessor’s office to identify the property owner. The citation fine ranges from $175 to $575 with a $75 administrative fee. 12 https://ojai.ca.gov/city-of-ojai-bans-use-of-most-gas-powered-landscaping-equipment-effective-april-27- 2020/#gsc.tab=0
13 https://www.southpasadenaca.gov/government/departments/public-works/environmental-programs/waste- reduction/gas-powered-leaf-blowers-ban
14 https://www.weho.org/Home/Components/News/News/10069/ 36 of 49

78b
3 9
4 8
West Hollywood's Code Enforcement Team found citing the property more efficient than the gardeners. They found that property owners tend to comply with the regulation and will notify their gardeners to not use gas-powered landscaping equipment.

City and County of San Francisco
In 2022, the City and County of San Francisco passed the Healthier, Cleaner, Quieter, Communities Act15 banning the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment ( Article 21, Sec 2101) 16 and established the Healthier, Cleaner, Quieter, Communities Fund ( Sec.

10.100-74)17. This act phases out the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment by the City and contractors by January 1, 2024. By January 1, 2026, the public and businesses need to phase out the use of such equipment. The Healthier, Cleaner, Quieter, Communities funds the purchase of replacement technology by City departments and a Buy-Back Program for San Francisco residents and businesses. The Buy-Back Program would start in 2026 when general compliance begins. Additionally, when enforcement beings, San Francisco would likely rely on complaint-based violations with some capacity for patrolling.

City of Burbank
In October 2022, the Sustainable Burbank Commission submitted a letter to their City council to consider a prohibition on gas-powered leaf blowers18. At the time of writing this report, Burbank was in the initial stages of investigating this prohibition. Currently, there is no ban on leaf-blowers, gas-powered leaf blowers, or gas-powered landscaping equipment in the City of Burbank.

City of La Canada Flintridge
In July 2022, the City of La Canada Flintridge introduced an ordinance banning on the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment19. However, staff we directed to investigate additional avenues, such as rebates, and present a revised ordinance at a future City Council meeting. The item returned to the Climate Action Plan Update Sub-Committee and may return to City Council in February or March of 2023. In its current stage, the ordinance would cite the property owner, and enforcement would be complaint driven. 15 https://sfbayca.com/2022/03/04/san-francisco-targets-fossil-fuel-powered-landscaping-tools-for-extinction/ 16 https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_francisco/latest/sf_police/0-0-0-5787 17 https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_francisco/latest/sf_admin/0-0-0-68247 18 https://myburbank.com/sustainable-burbank-commission-recommends-to-council-to-prohibit-gas-powered- leaf-blowers/#:~:text=News-
,Sustainable%20Burbank%20Commission%20Recommends%20to,Prohibit%20Gas%2DPowered%20Leaf%2DBlowe rs&text=Last%20week%2C%20the%20Sustainable%20Burbank,prohibited%20for%20use%20in%20Burbank. 19 https://outlookvalleysun.outlooknewspapers.com/2022/07/18/lcf-edges-toward-leaf-blower-ban/ 37 of 49

88b
3 9
4 8
Glendale Ordinance Enforcement Profile
Staff's recommendation is to cite the property owner, with a grace period that occurs before citation begins. During the grace period, Code Enforcement Officers give a courtesy notice for ordinance violations. After enforcement begins, cited entities are given a courtesy notice as a first warning.

An ordinance banning the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment would update the Municipal Code, such as in Chapter 8.36 Noise Control20, specifying the regulation of such equipment. Citation fees can be the following: 1st Fine of $100, 2nd Fine of $200, and 3rd Fine of $500. It follows the Ambient Noise Level fee in IV- Community Development, Section 6: Administrative Citations in the Citywide Fee Schedule.

City of Glendale Code Enforcement Practices
The City of Glendale’s current Code Enforcement practices relies on the community reporting violations. Code Enforcement Officers then schedule a time to view the violation because Code Enforcement Officers are required to observe a violation in- person to give a citation. Also, Code Enforcement personnel are available Monday to Friday from 7 am to 5 pm and do not conduct patrols. Due to the transient nature of many landscapers and routine landscape maintenance can be done quickly, it will likely be difficult to enforce the ordinance.

There are other options for ordinance enforcement. First, City Council can direct Code Enforcement to treat this violation with immediate service. Then, staff could dispatch a Code Enforcement Officer within 30 minutes of a reported violation, rather than the standard two days. Second, if a Code Enforcement Officer arrives at the scene and does not witness a violation, the officer can provide a courtesy notice to the landscaper, business, and/or homeowner.

If City Council desires a proactive approach to enforcing such a ban, like patrolling, it requires a revisioning of Code Enforcement’s current practices and ways of working.

Rebates and Incentives.

State Rebates and Incentives
Before the passage of AB 1346, rebates and incentives were available through local Air Quality Management Districts (AQMD). The South Coast (SCAQMD) has a Commercial Electric Lawn& Garden Equipment Exchange program. Currently, it is closed and anticipated to return in March 202321. The Commercial Lawn & Garden Battery Buy- Down Rebate Program is open, and businesses can receive a rebate of up to 75% off 20 https://library.qcode.us/lib/glendale_ca/pub/municipal_code/item/title_8-chapter_8_36-article_i 21 http://www.aqmd.gov/home/programs/community/electric-lawn-and-garden-programs/lawn-and-garden- equipment
38 of 49

98b
3 9
4 8
the cost of the replacement battery for electric lawn and garden equipment previously funded by the Commercial Lawn & Garden Equipment Incentive & Exchange Program.

In November 2022, the CARB announced $27 million in voucher funds for professional landscape services operated by small businesses and sole proprietors to purchase discounted zero-emission landscaping equipment through the Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project (CORE)22. $10 million is available until May 2023 for micro businesses, and the remaining $17 million will open for small businesses. To access these vouchers, landscaping businesses need to purchase equipment from a California CORE-approved dealer - none of which are in Glendale. The closest dealers are in Burbank, La Crescenta, Pasadena, and Los Angeles.

For residential incentives, SCAQMD has a residential rebate program to obtain an electric lawn mower23. Residents can turn in their gasoline lawn mowers to an approved dismantler and receive a rebate to purchase a new battery-operated electric lawn mower.

City Rebate and Incentive Programs
Many cities refer to the SCAQMD rebate program, but some cities have incentive programs. The City of San Mateo has a rebate of up to 50% of the purchase of an electric leaf blower for residents, and commercial companies can receive a rebate of up to 75%24. Redwood City offers rebates for electric leaf blowers for residents and businesses, and electric lawn care equipment for residents25. The City of Burbank offers a rebate of up to $475 for commercial landscapers to purchase an extra battery if they participated in the SCAQMD Equipment and Exchange program26. The City of Santa Clara, through Silicon Valley Power’s Marketplace, has an instant rebate of up to 25% off the purchase of electric landscaping equipment, such as electric leaf blowers and lawnmowers27.

City of Glendale Rebates and Incentives Program
If the City Council wishes to pursue a rebate and incentive program, staff recommend that such a rebate and incentive program is managed through Glendale Water and 22 https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/news/point-sale-vouchers-now-available-small-business-landscape-professionals- purchase-discounted
23 http://www.aqmd.gov/home/programs/community/electric-lawn-and-garden-programs/electric-lawn-mower- rebate-program
24 https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/4544/Electric-Leaf-Blower-Rebate 25 https://www.redwoodcity.org/departments/public-works/environmental-initiatives/environmental-initiatives-reb ates
26 https://www.burbankwaterandpower.com/conservation/commercial-programs-rebates/conservation- commercial-landscape-battery-rebate
27 https://www.santaclaraca.gov/Home/Components/News/News/43483/ 39 of 49

108b
3 9
4 8
Power (GWP) that has the infrastructure, systems, and practices in place to manage rebate and incentive programs. Currently, GWP does not offer rebates for leaf blowers or landscaping equipment. However, staff can work with GWP to investigate the feasibility of establishing a new rebate program for leaf blowers or landscaping equipment. If such a program is established, it would come to City Council as part of the FY 2023-2024 Public Benefit budgeting process for GWP. Thus, if a new rebate program is approved, it would not be available to the public until July 1, 2023.

STAKEHOLDERS/OUTREACH
Staff connected with six cities to learn about their experiences and stages of implementing a similar ordinance. Staff also connected with the AGZA to share their experience of Cities implementing a similar ordinance, as well as Community Services and Parks staff on their experience transitioning to electric landscaping equipment.

At the City Council meeting in October 2022, eight members of the public gave comments on the item - the majority in support of a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers.

An electric landscaping equipment demonstration event in partnership with AGZA is planned for February 23, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the Isabel Parking Lot behind City Hall. Information about this event and the California CORE’s voucher program was distributed to local business groups, local landscaping businesses, and community organizations, and shared with other cities to promote. It was posted on social media, included in newsletters, and posted in local community points around Glendale and California CORE-approved dealers. Staff also invested in digital marketing campaigns for this event and cold-called landscaping businesses and community groups for event promotion.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report at this time.

However, if an incentive or rebate program for electric landscaping equipment through GWP is developed, the costs associated with the program would be presented through the Public Benefit budgeting process for City Council.

If City Council directs staff to develop an ordinance, fines for the ordinance and any additional costs for Code Enforcement to enforce the ordinance would be presented to City Council at a future meeting.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW (CEQA/NEPA)
This item is exempt from CEQA as it is not a project approval. Council will only be 40 of 49

118b
3 9
4 8
providing direction to staff.

CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE
This item is exempt from campaign disclosure requirements.

ALTERNATIVES

1. Direct staff to prepare an ordinance banning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.

2. Directs staff to prepare an ordinance banning the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment.

3. Directs staff to prepare an ordinance banning the use of gas-powered two-stroke engines.

4. City Council may choose any other alternative not recommended by staff.

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
Prepared by:

Elizabeth Harris, Administrative Associate
Approved by:

Roubik R. Golanian, P.E., City Manager

EXHIBITS/ATTACHMENTS
Exhibit 1: CC_10112022_Report_8e
41 of 49

M O T I O N
Moved by Council Member , seconded by Council Member , that with respect to the Report to Council dated February 28, 2023 pertaining to a Potential Ban on Gas-Powered Landscaping Equipment or Two-Stroke Gas Engines (“Report”), the Council hereby directs staff to prepare an ordinance:

Options
[Banning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.]
[Banning the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment.] [Banning the use of gas-powered two-stroke engines.]
Enforcement
With respect to enforcement, the ordinance shall include an enforcement program that cites the property owner, with a grace period that occurs before citation begins. During the grace period, Code Enforcement Officers will give a courtesy notice for ordinance violations. After enforcement begins, cited entities are given a courtesy notice as a first warning. Citation fees will be the following: 1st Fine of $100, 2nd Fine of $200, and 3rd Fine of $500.

Vote as follows:

Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
42 of 49

CITY OF GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA

REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL

AGENDA ITEM
Report: Report Regarding Potential Ban on Gas-Powered Lawn and Landscaping Equipment

1.Motion to Note and File report of a ban on gas-powered lawn and landscaping equipment.

2.Motion providing direction regarding next steps on Consideration of ban on gas- powered lawn and landscaping equipment.

COUNCIL ACTION
Item Type: Action Item
Approved for October 11, 2022 calendar

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
California Assembly Bill No. 1346 introduces the ban on gas-powered small off-road engines (SOREs) used in lawn and garden equipment due to their highly polluting nature. This act would ban the sale of such equipment in California by 2024, or whenever the California Air Resources Board deems it necessary. Many cities have banned the sale and/or use of gas-powered leaf blowers.

Implementing a ban on all gas-powered small off-road engines would be one of the most progressive ordinances in the state. However, implementation is challenging because of enforcement for the City and transitional challenges for the affected businesses and organizations.
43 of 49

28e
3 5
8 6

COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Environmental Stewardship: Gas-powered landscaping equipment, Small Off-Road Engines (SOREs), and generator engines produce high levels of air pollutants that contribute to climate change and affect users’ health. Action regarding using such equipment would impact Glendale’s environment and the health of its community.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff respectfully recommend that City Council provide feedback, and note and file this report regarding the Consideration of a ban on gas-powered lawn and landscaping equipment. Staff also recommend that City Council provide direction on whether or not staff should investigate any type of ban on gas-powered SOREs.

If City Council wishes to pursue a ban on gas-powered SOREs, staff recommend that City Council provides direction on:
- Type of ban - a ban on the sale of the items or a ban on the use of the items. - Scope of ban - should the ban focus solely on leaf blowers or gas-powered SOREs?

BACKGROUND
California Assembly Bill No. 1346 (AB 1346) bans gas-powered small off-road engines (SOREs), typically used in lawn and garden equipment1.  SOREs are spark-ignition engines rated at or below 19 kilowatts2. It is equipment like lawnmowers, leaf blowers, golf carts, chainsaws, and other equipment used in landscaping, logging, airport ground support, and commercial utility equipment.

The ban on SOREs comes in place due to high levels of air pollutants, such as oxides of nitrogen (NOx), reactive organic gases (ROG), and particulate matter (PM). For instance, 1 hour of operating a lawn mower emits as much smog-forming pollution as a 2017 Toyota Camry driving 300 miles, and 1 hour of leaf blower use is equivalent to driving 1,100 miles3.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is required to set emission requirements for all SOREs to zero by 2024, or whenever it determines it is feasible4. In December of 2022, CARB approved updates to its SOREs regulations, with 2024 and subsequent model years to have zero emission standards for the first phase5. Essentially, it bans the sale of gas-powered SOREs by 2024. To support businesses, $30 million will be available to sole proprietors and other small landscaping businesses to assist in the purchase of zero-emission SOREs6.

44 of 49

38e
3 5
8 6
Although AB 1346 and the updated CARB regulations address new equipment, it does not regulate the use of existing SOREs. In the absence of State regulation, it is within the City Council’s authority to establish regulations specifically within the City7.

AB 1346 and the updated CARB regulations include a ban on the sale of gas-powered generators and large pressure washers, with implementation commencing in 20288.

This report does not cover bans on gas-powered generators and large power washers.

Currently, multiple air districts9 and cities have implemented initiatives and policies to reduce the use of gas-powered lawn equipment. Many Air Districts, like the Santa Barbara, San Joaquin, and South Coast Air Districts, offer incentives and rebates for companies to electrify their gas-powered landscaping equipment. Some Air Districts, like Antelope Valley and South Coast Air Districts, offered incentives for residents to upgrade their landscaping equipment to electric. Cities like Berkeley, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and recently Pasadena and South Pasadena ban the use of gas-powered blowers, with some cities, like Del Mar, Laguna Beach, and Santa Monica, taking it further and banning both gas and electric blowers10. The City and Country of San Francisco introduced the Healthier, Cleaner, Quieter Communities Act that would ban the use of gas-powered equipment for landscaping11. LA County is investigating a similar ban for unincorporated communities, along with incentives for electric equipment12.

ANALYSIS
Considerations
Extension of the Ban

Despite AB 1346 banning gas-powered SOREs sales, most city bans on gas-powered lawn equipment are specifically on leaf-blowers as a noise nuisance and include the ban as part of the city’s noise ordinance. Most city governments do not ban other gas- powered landscaping equipment, such as lawnmowers, trimmers, and chainsaws. If San Francisco implements the Healthier, Cleaner, Quieter Communities Act, it would represent one of the strictest bans in the state, covering leaf blowers and other landscaping equipment. LA County may also consider the ban of other gas-powered SOREs in addition to leaf-blowers.

Enforcement

Enforcement remains one of the top challenges of implementing a ban on gas-powered lawn equipment. Enforcement challenges include:
•Deciding how the ban is enforced. Is it enforced as a zoning violation or considered a citation?
45 of 49

48e
3 5
8 6
•Deciding who enforces the ordinance. Is it the police or is it an inspector? •Allocating enforcement resources. How many employees and how often are these inspectors deployed to enforce the ordinance?
•Deciding who is penalized. Are the landscapers penalized or the entity that commissioned the work?
Some cities, such as South Pasadena and West Hollywood, penalize the person or organization that commissioned the work and authorized the use of gas-powered equipment. West Hollywood hired a code enforcement technician to manage the gas- powered leaf blower ban.

Business Transition

Another consideration of a ban is the challenges associated with transitioning to all- electric equipment for landscaping businesses and organizations. These challenges revolve around infrastructure, acquiring equipment, and training.

Businesses transitioning to electric landscaping equipment need infrastructure for charging and storing equipment. Their infrastructure needs to handle increased electricity demand, have adequate ventilation, and meet Fire Codes. For instance, the City of Glendale’s Community Services and Parks (CSP) department changed its operations and upgraded facilities to safely and adequately charge new electric equipment.

Acquiring electric landscaping equipment is another challenge. Businesses, local governments, and other landscaping organizations would compete for rebates from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD). In addition, to meet the same operating power and duration as gas-powered equipment, companies and organizations will need to buy additional batteries and equipment to serve as charged backups.

For businesses and residents, equipment rebates, as well as battery buy-down rebate programs, are available through the South Coast (AQMD). However, funding for lawn and garden equipment exchange program is currently closed and may reopen in the future, dependent upon funding availability from the State of California.

While many cities do not offer rebates but refer to the South Coast AQMD rebate program, some others do. The City of San Mateo provides rebates of up to 50% of the purchase of an electric leaf blower for residents, and commercial companies can receive rebates of up to 75%13. In 2021, the Town Council of Yountville allocated $30,000 for an incentive program to help residents and businesses purchase electric 46 of 49

58e
3 5
8 6
leaf blowers and vacuums14.  Redwood City offers rebates for electric lawn care equipment for residents and commercial operators15.

Additionally, staff training is a hurdle. Training includes teaching staff to use the new electric equipment and balancing job efficiency with battery longevity. Using a tool at a higher setting allows for more power but drains the battery faster, resulting in more frequent charging.

Technology and Battery Recycling

Lastly, technological availability and recycling accessibility are additional considerations.

A list of electric landscaping equipment is in Exhibit 2.

Most hand-held, backpack, and push landscaping equipment have electric battery- powered alternatives available. These types of equipment are likely to be used frequently. For equipment that is used occasionally, like sod cutters and large wide area ride-on lawn mowers, finding electric alternatives is difficult or not available.

Then, there is the concern of battery replacement and recycling. Many manufacturers offer warranties on their products varying from 1 to 5 years. Glendale residents can drop off batteries at the Household Hazardous Waste Center. The Small Business Program at the Household Hazardous Waste Center allows businesses to set up an account at a subsidized cost to dispose of hazardous waste16. LA County has four permanent collection centers for hazardous and electronic waste that businesses can access17.

Potential Ban Approaches

Type of Ban

1. Ban on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers and/or SOREs The first type of ban the City Council can consider is to ban the use of gas-powered leaf blowers and/or SOREs.

Many cities first approach this ban by addressing their parks and landscaping facilities.

For instance, Pasadena’s leaf blower ban started with its staff and facilities, and LA County would implement a gas-powered SORE ban on their park facilities first. Then, cities typically expand the ban to other organizations that operate in the city after a couple of years.

47 of 49

68e
3 5
8 6
Community Services and Parks has been transitioning to electric landscaping equipment for the past few years, with the mini-park facilities converted. The rest of the park system is currently being converted, which will take approximately two additional years.

Most cities have a ban specifically on gas-powered leaf blowers. If the City Council were to pursue such a ban, it would be aligned with many other cities. A ban focusing on gas- powered leaf blowers would likely be a faster and easier transition for organizations since electric leaf blowers are available and comprise only one piece of equipment to update.

If the City of Glendale pursues a ban on the use of gas-powered equipment, the ban would require a transitional approach. This approach allows companies and organizations a few years to transition their commonly used and easily electrified equipment, like backpack leaf blowers and push lawnmowers.

For many companies and organizations affected, electric landscaping equipment is available to meet their business’s needs, but funding to acquire the equipment and develop any necessary infrastructure may be a hurdle. Enforcement of such a ban would likely require more City resources.

2. Ban on the sale of gas-powered SOREs
Alternatively, the City can pursue a ban on the sale of new gas-powered SOREs. It aligns with AB 1346 and would likely be easier to enforce. However, it does not prohibit the use of gas-powered SOREs in Glendale.

A ban on the sale of new gas-powered SOREs would be one of the most progressive bans in the state, along with what San Francisco introduced and LA County is evaluating.

STAKEHOLDERS/OUTREACH
Stakeholder outreach has yet to occur. Depending on the direction that council will like to take, staff will focus outreach on the affected groups. Suppose council directs staff to investigate a ban on the sale or use of gas powered leaf blowers or gas powered SOREs.

In that case, staff will provide a report to the Sustainability Commission so they may provide their recommendations for council to consider.

FISCAL IMPACT
48 of 49

78e
3 5
8 6
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW (CEQA/NEPA)
This item is considered a ministerial activity and therefore, not subject to CEQA review.

CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE
This item is exempt from campaign disclosure requirements.

ALTERNATIVES

1. Direct Staff to investigate a ban on the sale of gas-powered leaf blowers.

2. Direct Staff to investigate a ban on the sale of gas-powered SOREs.

3. Direct Staff to investigate a ban on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.

4. Direct Staff to investigate a ban on the use of gas-powered SOREs.

5. Direct Staff to not move further with a ban on the sale nor the use of gas- powered SOREs.

6. City Council may choose an alternative not put forward by staff.

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
Prepared by:

Elizabeth Harris, Administrative Associate
Approved by:

Roubik R. Golanian, P.E., City Manager

EXHIBITS/ATTACHMENTS

1. Report Citation List

2. Sampling of Electric Landscaping Equipment
49 of 49

Glendale City CouncilFebruary 28, 2023

Glendale City Council
February 28, 2023