City of La Cañada Flintridge
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
City Council Chambers
One Civic Center Drive
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Call to Order: Mayor Hobson called the Regular Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m.
Roll Call: Councilmember Quemars S. Ahmed, Kim Bowman (via teleconference), Councilman Keith Eich (via teleconference), Mayor Pro Tem Stephanie Fossan, and Mayor Jeanne K. Hobson.
Councilmember Bowman stated that he will participate remotely in accordance with Government Code section 54953.83(c)(7) under the "just cause" exception of the Brown Act. He is currently serving under official written orders as a member of the United States Air Force Reserve and is located more than 50 miles outside the boundary of the City, which prevents him from attending in person.
Staff Present: City Manager Jordan, City Attorney Guerra, Assistant City Manager Parseghian, Director of Administrative Services Cook, Director of Community Development Koleda, Director of Finance Kim, Director of Public Works/City Engineer El-Rabaa, Assistant Director of Community Development Gardea, Assistant Planner Fabela, Management Analyst Guillot, and City Clerk Garcia.
Pledge of Allegiance: Led by Pat Anderson.
Comments from the Public
In-person public comments were received from Pat Anderson and Foothill Municipal Water District Board of Directors Member Laura Olhasso.
City Manager Jordan encouraged Ms. Olhasso to stay for the Staff updates on pending projects.
Presentations
Public Safety Update
Chief Sprengel provided the public safety report for June, along with the safety tip for the month.
Lieutenant Carr provided the crime report update for June and addressed questions from the City Council.
Staff update on pending projects
Director of Public Works/City Engineer El-Rabaa provided an update on construction of a few projects. He noted a correction to the Capital Improvement Project Status report, Item 4 on the Consent Calendar. He then answered questions from the City Council regarding the Foothill Boulevard Dip Project.
Mayor Pro Tem Fossan commended staff on the Viro Road light project.
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Director of Public Works/City Engineer El-Rabaa answered questions about the design changes for Mayor’s Discovery Park.
Mayor Hobson requested that staff keep everyone updated on the status of the Foothill Boulevard Dip Project including the Foothill Municipal Water District.
Reordering of and Additions to the Agenda: None
Consent Calendar
Councilmember Ahmed recused himself from Consent Calendar Item 2, line 81 of the Warrant Resolution due to a conflict of interest related to that specific payment.
Councilmember Bowman recused himself from Consent Calendar Item 2, line 21 of the Warrant Resolution due to a conflict of interest related to that specific payment.
City Manager Jordan pulled Consent Calendar Item Seven from the agenda. He noted that to avoid any potential conflict-of-interest, staff wants to recheck whether any Councilmembers need recuse themselves given the locations of the proposed red curbs.
City Attorney Guerra added that there is a possibility of a "public generally" exception under the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) regulations. He noted that staff need additional time to conduct the necessary analysis before bringing the item back for consideration. He also pointed out a correction to Consent Calendar Item Four, the following sentence is being removed: “The City Council will consider approval and acceptance of the contractor's work under a separate item on tonight's agenda.”
A MOTION was made by Mayor Pro Tem Fossan, seconded by Councilman Eich, and carried (5 - 0) to approve Consent Calendar Items One through 14 with the abovementioned recusals and correction to Item Four. Consent Calendar Item Seven was pulled from the agenda.
A roll call vote was taken, and the results were read by City Clerk Garcia as follows:
AYES: Ahmed, Bowman, Eich, Fossan, and Hobson
NOES: None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
1) Waive the Full Reading of All Ordinances Considered on This Agenda and Direct the City Attorney That They Be Read by Title Only
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
2) Approval of Warrant Resolution No. 26-12 Dated August 4, 2026, for $2,159,250.80 (Approved 5 – 0, with the abovementioned recusals)
3) Receive and File Commission Meeting Action Agendas
a. Design Commission Action Minutes for May 21, 2026
b. Planning Commission Action Minutes for April 9, April 23, May 14, May 28, and June 11, 2026
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
4) Receive and File the Capital Improvement Project Status Update (Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
5) Receive and File the Public Safety Reports for June 2026 (Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
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6) Approval of a Memorandum of Agreement with the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments for Participation in the San Gabriel Valley Regional Food Recovery Program Through June 30, 2028
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
7) Adoption of a Resolution for the Installation of Red Curb on the Approach to Various Marked and Unmarked Crosswalks in Accordance with AB 413 (Item removed from the agenda)
8) Approval of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Between the City of La Cañada Flintridge and the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) and Eighteen Agencies Regarding the Administration and Cost Sharing for Implementing the Coordinated Integrated Monitoring Program (CIMP) and Watershed Management Plan (WMP) for the Upper Los Angeles River Watershed Management Area
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
9) Approve and Accept the Work by Crosby Plumbing, Inc. for the Mayor’s Discovery Park Improvements Project, (CIP 31-2213; Contract 23/24-16)
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
10) Update on the Implementation of CivicPlus for Agenda Management Software and Media Streaming Services for City Council and City Commission/Committee Meetings (Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
11) Proposed Timeline to Fill an Unscheduled Vacancy on the Sustainability and Resilience Commission
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
12) Receive and File the Attendance Report for City Commission and Committee Members for the Second Quarter of 2026, Covering April 1 - June 30, 2026 (Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
13) Adopt a Resolution Approving the Updated Bail Schedule for Municipal Code and Vehicle Code Violations
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
14) Approve Letter of Support for the California JPIA Formation of the Coalition to Protect Community Services
(Approved 5 – 0, as recommended)
Public Hearings
15) Appeal of Design Review (DEV-2026-0012) by RNF Signs for New Signage Associated with Wells Fargo Bank located at 555 Foothill Boulevard Councilman Eich noted that he would be recusing himself because he has banked with Wells Fargo in the last 12 months and has a relationship with them. Therefore, he chose to recuse himself out of an abundance of caution and leave the meeting for that item.
Mayor Hobson asked if the City Council members need to recuse themselves from the discussion if they bank with Wells Fargo.
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A brief break was taken and the meeting resumed at 6:47 p.m.
City Attorney Guerra explained the five categories of financial interests identified by the FPPC that could create a conflict of interest. He clarified that having a checking or interest-bearing account with Wells Fargo does not count as the type of "investment" that leads to a conflict in this decision. Even if interest is earned, it is standardized and not significantly affected by the approval or denial of this specific sign. Therefore, he does not believe there is a disqualifying financial conflict under FPPC rules for Councilmembers who simply bank at Wells Fargo, allowing them to participate in the decision-making process.
Mayor Hobson stated that she believes she does not need to recuse herself and can make an objective decision.
Councilman Eich still chose to recuse himself out of an abundance of caution.
Councilmember Bowman noted that, in accordance with state law and common law, he does not see a conflict of interest and participated in the discussion.
Assistant Planner Fabela provided a staff report. He addressed questions from the City Council regarding the raceway and sign content.
Mayor Hobson opened the public hearing at 7:00 p.m.
In-person public comments were received from Jimmy Fuller, a representative of RNF Signs Inc., who represents Wells Fargo. No additional public comments were submitted.
Mayor Hobson closed the public hearing at 7:02 p.m.
Director of Community Development Koleda and Assistant Planner Fabela addressed questions from the City Council.
After a brief discussion and deliberation, the City Council acknowledge that businesses should be able to read the City’s sign rules, comply, and reasonably expect approval without “one‑off” extra conditions. Overall, the City Council agreed on content neutrality, supported consistency with past approvals, and acknowledged fair treatment of businesses that follow the sign code.
A MOTION was made by Councilmember Bowman, seconded by Mayor Hobson, and carried (4 – 0, Councilman Eich recused) to find the project exempt from CEQA and adopt a City Council Resolution upholding the appeal and approving Design Review (DEV-2026-0012) for Wells Fargo Bank at 555 Foothill Boulevard, with the removal of Condition #11 requiring that all wall signs are not illuminated and do not include raceways.
A roll call vote was taken, and the results were read by City Clerk Garcia as follows:
AYES: Ahmed, Bowman, Fossan, and Hobson
NOES: None; ABSTAIN: None; RECUSED: Eich; ABSENT: None
16) General Plan Amendment (PLAN-2026-0001), Adoption of Updates to the General Plan Open Space and Recreation, Conservation Element, and Circulation Elements Docusign Envelope ID: 384B8549-6637-85D7-83CA-04579F7E32BD City Council Minutes Page 5 of 8 August 4, 2026
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Assistant Director of Community Development Gardea provided a staff report. He addressed questions from the City Council regarding the active transportation plan versus the multimodal plan.
Mayor Hobson opened the public hearing at 7:16 p.m.
In-person public comments were received from Randy Strapazon.
Mayor Hobson closed the public hearing at 7:25 p.m.
Assistant Director of Community Development Gardea addressed questions from the City Council.
After a brief discussion and deliberation, the City Council recognized that Ms. Strapazon's comments were substantive, especially for grant funding and accuracy. They decided not to adopt the updates as presented since there is no urgent deadline. Instead, they continued the public hearing and asked staff to incorporate the suggested changes, including removing Action Item
1.2.5 from the Open Space Element and addressing Ms. Strapazon’s comments. Staff supported the approach.
A MOTION was made by Councilmember Bowman, seconded by Councilman Eich, and carried (5 – 0) to continue the public hearing on the General Plan Open Space and Recreation, Conservation Element, and Circulation Elements to the September 1, 2026, regular meeting.
A roll call vote was taken, and the results were read by City Clerk Garcia as follows:
AYES: Ahmed, Bowman, Eich, Fossan, and Hobson
NOES: None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
17) Adoption of a Resolution Amending the Master Schedule of Fees and Charges Management Analyst Guillot presented a PowerPoint presentation titled "Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Master Fee Schedule.” She answered questions from the City Council.
Mayor Hobson opened the public hearing at 7:39 p.m. Seeing no comments, she closed the public hearing.
The City Council and City Manager expressed their appreciation to the staff for the comprehensive report and update they provided.
A MOTION was made by Mayor Pro Tem Fossan, seconded by Councilmember Ahmed, and carried (5 - 0) to adopt a resolution revising the Master Schedule of Fees and Charges.
A roll call vote was taken, and the results were read by City Clerk Garcia as follows:
AYES: Ahmed, Bowman, Eich, Fossan, and Hobson
NOES: None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
Ordinances: None
Other Business
18) Discussion and Direction Regarding the Future Operation of Lanterman Auditorium Docusign Envelope ID: 384B8549-6637-85D7-83CA-04579F7E32BD City Council Minutes Page 6 of 8 August 4, 2026
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Assistant City Manager Parseghian provided a brief staff report. He addressed questions from the City Council regarding future use of Lanterman Auditorium if returned to La Cañada Unified School District (LCUSD).
Mayor Hobson opened the public comment period at 7:58 p.m.
In-person public comments were made by Randy Strapazon. Virtual comments were received from a phone number ending in 5645, identified as David Haxon.
Mayor Hobson closed the public comment period at 8:01 p.m.
After discussion and deliberation, the City Council recognized that the Lanterman Auditorium is an important resource for the community. They agreed to include this topic in a broader conversation without delaying it. By consensus, the City Council directed staff to continue discussions with the LCUSD regarding the proposed options and to return with further analysis and recommendations. No formal motion or vote was conducted. 19) Discussion Regarding Hybrid Meetings for the City's Commissions and Committees and Provide Direction to Staff as Appropriate
City Clerk Garcia provided a brief staff report.
Mayor Hobson opened the public comment at 8:12 p.m. Seeing no comments, she closed the public hearing.
Director of Administrative Services Cook addressed questions from the City Council regarding the participation of Commissioners and the public.
After discussion and deliberation, the City Council recognized the interest in expanding access and transparency. However, they expressed concerns about implementing a hybrid model for all legislative bodies right away due to the costs, staffing needs, and technical complexities. By consensus, the City Council agreed to explore hybrid format for commissions and committees as a pilot program, but they do not intend to roll it out all at once. They directed staff to develop a phased pilot program that will identify which commissions and committees should transition to a hybrid format first, along with the necessary staffing and audiovisual (AV) requirements, as well as cost estimates. No formal motion or vote was taken.
Concluding Business
Meetings attended at the expense of the local agency
Councilmember Ahmed, Councilmember Bowman, Mayor Pro Tem Fossan, and Mayor Hobson attended a Sanitation District meeting.
Regional and local representation
Mayor Hobson and Councilmember Ahmed attended a ribbon cutting of a new hair salon.
Subcommittee updates
Assistant City Manager Parseghian provided an update from the Citywide Notifications Subcommittee.
Request for future agenda items
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Mayor Hobson expressed her desire to begin work early on the Housing Element cycle, which is due in 2029. She proposed creating a subcommittee or similar group that would include City Council members, Planning Commissioners, and community members. The goal is to plan the structure, process, and public engagement for the next Housing Element well before the official deadline.
City Attorney Guerra noted that a subcommittee would be limited to two Councilmembers.
Councilmember Bowman supported the idea of bringing this back for a broader discussion.
Mayor Pro Tem Fossan seconded Mayor Hobson’s future agenda item request.
Councilmember Ahmed requested a future staff report on Cal Fire’s “Fire Risk Reduction Community” list that would explain why La Cañada Flintridge was not included on the July 1, 2026, list a detail what specific actions the City would need to take to qualify and apply for inclusion on the next list, which is expected to be published in two years (application deadline July 1, 2027).
Mayor Pro Tem Fossan seconded Councilmember Ahmed’s future agenda item request.
Councilman Eich requested a future agenda item to revisit the City’s community groups funding policy. Specifically, to re-examine the reimbursement-only model for smaller organizations receiving City funds. He noted that smaller groups are struggling because they must front costs out of pocket, then wait for reimbursement from the City.
Councilmember Bowman seconded Councilman Eich’s future agenda item request.
Councilman Eich requested a future presentation from the Los Angeles County RegistrarRecorder/County Clerk regarding the election administration process. City Manager Jordan confirmed that the presentation is scheduled for September 15.
Councilmembers’ comments
Councilmember Bowman commended the Mayor on her first meeting in this role.
Councilman Eich announced that he is relocating to the East Coast due to his job. He will no longer be a resident of La Cañada Flintridge and cannot continue his role on the City Council. He expects the September 1, 2026, meeting to be his last, with formal resignation details to be submitted to the City Clerk. He will continue serving fully until then and stated that serving the community for over six and a half years has been one of the greatest honors of his life.
The City Council expressed gratitude for his service to the community. They noted that there would be formal recognition of his contributions at a future meeting, once he submits his official resignation. The City Council will then consider options for filling the vacancy, ensuring that the process remains public and transparent.
City Attorney Guerra explained that when the seat becomes officially vacant, the City Council has 30 days to either appoint a new member or call a special election. This decision, along with the appointment process, which may include the submission of applications and interviews, must take place during a public meeting that is properly noticed.
City Manager closing comments: None
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ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Hobson adjourned the Regular City Council meeting at 8:38 p.m. _________________________________
Tania Garcia, City Clerk
Minutes approved by the City Council on September 15, 2026.
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