City Council - July 23, 2024
1. CALL TO ORDER
Public Comments:
The City Council minutes are prepared and ordered to correspond to the City Council Agenda. Agenda Items can be taken out of order during the meeting.
The Agenda Items were considered in the order presented.
Mayor Arapostathis called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
1.1 INVOCATION - COUNCILMEMBER DILLARD
Public Comments:
1.2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Public Comments:
2. REPORT FROM CLOSED SESSION
Public Comments:
City Attorney Sabine announced there were no reportable actions.
3. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
Public Comments:
City Manager Humora thanked the residents who completed the priorities survey and shared their thoughts, opinions, and priorities, which would help shape the City's plans for the future, and he provided an update on the repaving project of Jackson Drive.
4. COMMUNITY BULLETIN REPORTS
Public Comments:
The Mayor, Council and staff made announcements and reported on various events taking place in the City. No action was taken.
5. ADDITIONS AND/OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
Public Comments:
There were no additions or deletions to the agenda.
6. PRESENTATIONS
Public Comments:
6.1 CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION PRESENTED TO CHRIST LUTHERAN SCHOOL FOR BEING AWARDED THE PLATINUM PARENT CHOICE AWARD Public Comments:
Mayor Arapostathis presented the Certificate of Recognition to Xavria Schwarz, principal of Christ Lutheran School, for the school’s Platinum Parent Choice Award. Xavria Schwarz thanked the Council for the recognition.
6.2 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ANNUAL REPORT
Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Memo_2023 Climate Action Plan Annual Report 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_2023 Climate Action Plan Annual Report.pdf
3. Attachment B_2023 Climate Action Plan Annual Report Appendix.pdf
4. PowerPoint_2023 Climate Action Plan Annual Report.pdf Wendy Mihalic
I would like to commend the City’s Sustainability staff for all the work they have done since adoption of our first Climate Action Plan in 2018. The initiatives showcased in the 2023 annual report indicate we are headed in the right direction. Also, I cannot say enough about the great work being done by Civic Spark and College Corps Fellows under Hilary Ego’s tutelage. The time and effort invested with these bright young people is well spent in the projects they complete for the City and also in shaping sustainability leaders of the future.
The 2023 Annual Report has great graphics but where, exactly, are we in meeting our GHGe reduction goals? Where is the assessment of which actions result in the largest emission reductions and where is the best use of staff time? Surely 26 DIY kits and 18 opt-ups to Power100 aren’t moving the needle much. We need better, more immediate tools to help prioritize limited resources. I urge staff and Council members to work with SANDAG and other regional entities to get better and more immediate access to emissions data.
The CAP Update was to have been completed by March 2023, five years after the 2018 CAP. San Diego 350 and other environmental, justice, faith-based and equity groups have been given many moving targets over the past 2 years on when, exactly, the City would provide a draft for review. This is the best way for groups who are deeply involved in CAPS throughout the county and the State to provide comprehensive feedback.
Tonight’s Annual Report presentation states that a draft version for Public Comment will be provided in Summer 2024 and final version in Fall 2024. The end of Summer is fast approaching.
Will staff please commit to a date for release of the DRAFT CAP so all constituent groups will have an opportunity to provide meaningful input with time for incorporation into the final version, if needed? Thank you
Truth
Why stop at Bike Workshops? Why not Walking Workshops? And Car Safety Workshops for the 97% of people who commute by car, and the Countless people who need a refresher on driving? That SANDAG Diamond Award is nothing to Brag about, considering that it cost the Taxpayers of the County about $50,000 to Pay for those awards. How many GHGs did people have to Burn in order to Earn $50,000? Relying on data from SANDAG also exposes the City of La Mesa to Inaccuracies from an agency that Continually Flubs on Numbers! Alleged “CAP Co-Benefits” include: “Air Quality”, “Jobs & Economy”, “Public Health & Safety”, “Resiliency”, and “Reduce Cost of Living”. 1) What’s “Resilient” about relying on All-Electric appliances and infrastructure that Overload the Grid? How would that help the economy? 2) That electricity is also Much More Expensive than Natural Gas! How would that Reduce the Cost of Living? 3) In order to Try to stabilize an All-Electric-based Grid, the current “solutions” offered involved Non-Recyclable Solar Panels and Lithium-based Infrastructure. Lithium extraction Harms the environment, pollutes surrounding communities, and is most often processed into batteries by a Communist country – China – with Forced Labor.
There’s a New Wild Lithium Fire Every Week – whether it’s in a Landfill, a Battery Storage Site, a bus, or a car. These batteries are Highly combustible, and their fires emit Toxic Fumes full of Deadly chemicals like Hydrogen Cyanide, putting firefighters and Every surrounding community at risk of Cancer. Lithium Fires require Thousands and Thousands of gallons of water to put out, and that run-off water becomes Hazardous Waste, and the batteries are Still prone to Reignite over and over and over Again. How is that Good for Health & Safety? Or even for Air Quality? No to any more of this Dangerous Cancer-causing Lithium-based infrastructure – Especially Fire-Prone Electric Vehicles and Battery Energy Storage Sites! For Public Transit, I’d like to see the people of the City of La Mesa have Easier Access to the Cities of El Cajon and Santee by the City Advocating for MTS to End their InEquitable Copper Line idea, and Instead double-track the area in between the Gillespie Field and Santee trolley stations, and then extend the Orange Line trolley all the way to Santee so that Nobody has to transfer anymore.
If public transit isn’t Convenient, Nobody’s gonna ride it! No to UnPure Water that Forces people to drink Toilet To Tap – To Blood, Drugs, and Waste – No thanks! Alternative: Natural Spring Water from the County preserves, as well as the City collecting Natural Clean Rain Water.
The Rainwater Collection Workshop is a good first step.
Here’s a Positive: I like Mark’s signature.
Environmental Program Manager Ego provided a PowerPoint presentation on the Climate Action Plan ("CAP") progress, highlighting the Climate Emergency Resolution actions, emission reduction goals, reporting commitments, implementation timeline, greenhouse gas emissions inventory, CAP co-benefits, the CAP team, 2023 CAP highlights in the areas of energy, transportation, solid waste, green infrastructure, water and community engagement, and the 2024 CAP priority projects.
Wendy Mihalic submitted a comment on emission data and the status of the CAP update.
Truth submitted a comment on the shift towards a fully electric grid and lithium-based infrastructure.
Following Council questions and comments, no action was taken.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS – (TOTAL TIME – 15 MINUTES)
Public Comments
Dianne Osterling
At this point it's beyond reasonable to believe you ever intended to reconsider readdressing providing remote public comment access. The level of public faith in your honesty and intentions is not going up. Perhaps the public isn't who matter to you though, so making it harder for them to be hard is a goal you have achieved. Congratulations on shutting the curtains and closing the windows to all but those able to go in person council meetings. Most likely not those that are neediest or less frequently listened to. mairs ryan
July 23, 2024
Mayor and Council,
In February of this year the La Mesa City Council placed a moratorium on public zoom access at City Council meetings, as well as at all Board and Commission meetings.
Soon after an ad hoc committee was formed lead by Mayor Apostathis and Council Member Parent. Today, five months later, the moratorium remains in place without any word from the ad hoc committee. Heading into our sixth month, La Mesa citizens are still waiting for a report from the Public Zoom Access ad hoc committee.
In contrast, an ad hoc committee on a single-use plastics ordinance–also formed five months ago–held an open public session last week. I repeat, they held an open session. For the public.
We appreciate your spending time clocking speeding cars, Mayor. A. And, Council member Parent, we acknowledge that you may be distracted by your election campaign. However, first things first.
I acknowledge that deliberations on critical issues take time and forbearance. Surely, Mayor Apostathes and Council member Parent, you have been deliberating long enough to at least know if you still need to deliberate. Tell us, your constituents, something of your progress or process.
Thank you,
Mairs Ryan
Wendy Mihalic
I am re-submitting a public comment I made regarding the ban on remote public comment over zoom - 5 months ago on the 27th of February. How long does it take to assess the situation and get back to your constituents with a recommendation? Do you think we we will simply going to go away? The favor of a reply would be greatly appreciated.
Zoom bombing, that’s what took place at the La Mesa Council meeting two weeks ago when a hate group misused remote Public Comment to spew ugly, antisemitic and racial comments.
I believe that this, rather than ‘technical issues with Zoom.” is driving the proposal to eliminate Public Comment over Zoom. I also believe that one of the few good things to come out of the pandemic was the increased use of remote technology for all types of gatherings including City Meetings and I urge Council to keep remote Public Comment in place.
Banning Zoom access in response to hate, means they win. Council would essentially be depriving well-meaning citizens – who cannot attend a meeting in person -- of their right to participate in public discourse and engage with their local government. This punishes the entire community for the actions of a few bad actors. Problems are solved with targeted and measured solutions, not sweeping and indiscriminate actions that undermine the principles of free speech and civic engagement.
The ADL toolkit for Responding to such disruptions urges elected officials and community leaders to combat hate by making it clear what is unacceptable and antithetical to our community’s values of inclusivity and equity. Has this Council done that?
When the San Diego city Council was Zoom bombed last September they issued a statement saying in part: “As one of the most diverse councils in San Diego’s history, we speak in solidarity that there is no space for hate speech and violent misinformation in our city.” San Diego has retained remote public comment.
San Diego County has had its share of racial slurs and meeting disruptions and has retained call-in public comment.
Instead of calling out the hate and addressing it directly, the recommendation is to limit the free speech of those who for many reasons may not be able to attend a meeting in person. Tonight, I am on travel and calling in from New Mexico. I emphasize free speech. I have provided comment to Council in writing, in-person and over Zoom. I believe that voicing my opinion is most impactful. Written comments may not be shared with the broader community and may not even be read by our elected officials. Even pre-Covid the City Clerk read written comments out loud (with astounding speed-reading skill!).
I ask that Council address the issue of remote hate speech directly rather than mask it as a technical issue with Zoom. Please don’t limit La Mesa’s public square by closing off this important access.
Still waiting....
Dianne Osterling spoke on remote public comment and the Firewise USA program.
Barbie Wheeler expressed her concerns about a house on Bellflower Drive.
Janet Castanos spoke on remote public comment.
Gene Carpenter spoke on the Downtown Village Specific Plan workshop and holding a town hall meeting.
Dianne Osterling submitted a comment on remote public comment.
Mairs Ryan submitted a comment on remote public comment.
Wendy Mihalic submitted a comment on remote public comment.
8. CONFLICT DISCLOSURES
Public Comments:
There were no conflict of interest disclosures.
9. BOARD AND COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS
Public Comments:
9.1 RESOLUTION APPOINTING AND/OR REAPPOINTING MEMBERS TO CITY OF LA MESA BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Memo_2024 Annual Board and Commission Appointments 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_Board and Commission List of Applicants.July.pdf
3. Attachment B_Board and Commission Appointments Resolution.July.pdf Truth
Whoever doesn’t show up In Person Without a Valid excuse – They should be Disqualified from Any City position.
The Arts and Culture Commission:
Sherida Bonton didn’t show last time.
Todd Pitman – Did he ever figure out to get plants to survive the 160 Degree Heat of Arizona without using an Unsustainable amount of water? Melissa Weiss Walter – Since she worked for NASA creating Imagery – Because apparently, space Doesn’t provide it Naturally – Has she watched Stanley Kubrick’s Confession yet? The Community Relations and Veterans Commission:
Any Veterans are a good fit for the Commission.
The Community Services Commission:
I remember Robert and Parker showing up.
The Environmental Sustainability Commission:
Richard Williams – Still No to the Program Manager of the County’s Regional Decarbonization Framework that has plans to Push Electric Vehicles that people Shouldn’t Have if they want to avoid Toxic Fires, along with plans to Destroy the Environment with Lithium Leeching.
The Planning Commission:
Jerry Jones – Is a potential Ideological Conflict-Of-Interest to have someone from an Anti-Car, Big Money Lobbying Organization – Circulate San Diego – on this Commission.
I recommend Rock, Paper, Scissors if there’s a dispute about who to choose for any Board, Committee, or Commission.
Mayor Arapostathis nominated the following individuals for appointment or reappointment to the various City Boards and Commissions:
Arts and Culture Commission
Sherida Bonton as the general population representative Melissa Weiss Walter as the visual arts representative
Community Relations and Veterans Commission
Alan R. Gann as the veteran population representative
Victor E. Martin as the general population representative Design Review Board
Alison Morita
Environmental Sustainability Commission
Richard Williams as the professional representative
Amanda-Dawn Natalia as the general population representative Jack Sellinger as the general population representative Historic Preservation Commission
Todd Pitman as the La Mesa Historical Society representative Tony Garcia as the design professional representative
La Mesa Community Parking Commission
Melissa McCune as the CD/D Zone representative
Personnel Appeals Board
Fabriane Hudson
Hannah Weinstein
City Clerk Wiegelman explained the nomination process for the Community Services Commission and Planning Commission.
The Council began the open nomination process for two positions on the Community Services Commission.
City Clerk Wiegelman announced the nominations as follows:
Round 1
:
Mayor Arapostathis nominated Robert Duff and Parker Ross Vice Mayor Lothian nominated Robert Duff and Parker Ross Councilmember Dillard nominated Robert Duff and Amanda-Dawn Natalia Councilmember Shu nominated Robert Duff and Parker Ross Councilmember Parent nominated Robert Duff and Parker Ross City Clerk Wiegelman announced that Robert Duff and Parker Ross received a majority nomination.
The Council began the open nomination process for two positions on the Planning Commission.
City Clerk Wiegelman announced the nominations as follows:
Round 1
:
Mayor Arapostathis nominated Jerry Jones and Andrew Torpey Vice Mayor Lothian nominated Jerry Jones and Andrew Torpey Councilmember Dillard nominated Jerry Jones and Andrew Torpey Councilmember Shu nominated Jerry Jones and Andrew Torpey Councilmember Parent nominated Jerry Jones and Andrew Torpey City Clerk Wiegelman announced that Jerry Jones and Andrew Torpey received a majority nomination.
Truth submitted a comment regarding the various applicants for the board and commission positions.
Resolution No. 2024-086
Moved By
Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By
Councilmember Parent
(1) Approve the reappointments of Sherida Bonton as the general population representative and Melissa Weiss Walter as the visual arts representative on the Arts and Culture Commission; (2) approve the reappointment of Alan R. Gann as the veteran representative and appointment of Victor E. Martin as the general population representative on the Community Relations and Veterans Commission; (3) approve the reappointment of Alison Morita to the Design Review Board; (4) approve the reappointment of Richard Williams as the professional representative and appointments of Amanda-Dawn Natalia and Jack Sellinger as the general population representatives on the Environmental Sustainability Commission; (5) approve the reappointment of Tony Garcia as the design professional representative and appointment of Todd Pitman as the La Mesa Historical Society representative on the Historic Preservation Commission; (6) approve the appointment of Melissa McCune as the CD/D Downtown Commercial Zone representative on the La Mesa Community Parking Commission; (7) approve the reappointment of Fabriane Hudson and appointment of Hannah Weinstein on the Personnel Appeals Board; and (8) adopt the Resolution confirming the reappointments and appointments.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Shu, Councilmember Parent, Councilmember Dillard, and Vice Mayor Lothian Approved (5 to 0)
Substitute Motion:
Moved By
Councilmember Shu
(1) Approve the reappointments of Sherida Bonton as the general population representative and Melissa Weiss Walter as the visual arts representative on the Arts and Culture Commission; (2) approve the reappointment of Alan R. Gann as the veteran representative and appointment of Victor E. Martin as the general population representative on the Community Relations and Veterans Commission; (3) approve the reappointment of Alison Morita to the Design Review Board; (4) approve the reappointment of Richard Williams as the professional representative and appointments of Amanda-Dawn Natalia and Jack Sellinger as the general population representatives on the Environmental Sustainability Commission; (5) approve the reappointment of Tony Garcia as the design professional representative and appointment of Todd Pitman as the La Mesa Historical Society representative on the Historic Preservation Commission; (6) approve the appointment of Melissa McCune as the CD/D Downtown Commercial Zone representative on the La Mesa Community Parking Commission; (7) approve the reappointment of Fabriane Hudson and appointment of Hannah Weinstein on the Personnel Appeals Board; (8) approve the appointment of Andy Trimlett as the Police Beat 4 representative on the Community Police Oversight Board; and (9) adopt the Resolution confirming the reappointments and appointments.
Failed
The substitute motion failed due to a lack of a second.
Resolution No. 2024-086
Moved By
Councilmember Parent
Seconded By
Mayor Arapostathis
Approve the reappointment of Parker Ross and appointment of Robert Duff to the Community Services Commission and adopt the Resolution confirming the appointments.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Shu, Councilmember Parent, Councilmember Dillard, and Vice Mayor Lothian Approved (5 to 0)
Resolution No. 2024-086
Moved By
Councilmember Shu
Seconded By
Councilmember Parent
Approve the reappointments of Jerry Jones and Andrew Torpey to the Planning Commission and adopt the Resolution confirming the reappointments.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Shu, Councilmember Parent, Councilmember Dillard, and Vice Mayor Lothian Approved (5 to 0)
10. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
Public Comments
Mairs Ryan
July 23, 2024
Mayor and Council members,
I would like to comment on 11.7 that references Homeland Security Funds that are available to the city of La Mesa.
I suggest that a portion of those funds be used to increase the security on the City Council's zoom platform so that the public may have access to offering remote public comments at all Council, Board and Commission meetings.
The zoom bombers terrorized the Council enough that it shut down all access. Let us use the H.S. funds to ensure that La Mesa's citizens are granted their freedom of full access; otherwise, the terrorists win.
Thank you
Mairs Ryan
Dianne Osterling spoke on Item 11.4.
Mairs Ryan submitted a comment on Item 11.7.
Truth submitted a comment on Items 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 11.5, 11.6, 11.8, 11.9, and 11.11.
11. CONSENT CALENDAR
Public Comments:
(Items 11.1 through 11.11)
Moved By
Councilmember Parent
Seconded By
Councilmember Shu
Approve Consent Calendar Items 11.1 through 11.11.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Shu, Councilmember Parent, Councilmember Dillard, and Vice Mayor Lothian Approved (5 to 0)
11.1 APPROVAL OF MOTION TO WAIVE THE READING OF THE TEXT OF ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS AT THIS MEETING Public Comments
Truth
When it comes to waiving the full reading of Resolutions and Ordinances, I continue to advocate for Transparency, rather than the Status Quo of Procedural Business As Usual – which means reading a short, 1 line summary of the item, rather than nothing but a title that has the potential to be Deceptive.
Plus, since I’m not there In Person, I’d prefer You guys have to be there As Long As Possible! Approve.
11.2 RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA MESA AND IPS GROUP PARKING & TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND APPROPRIATING $35,000 FROM THE DOWNTOWN PARKING FUND RESERVE TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGET Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Purchase of Smart Meters and Ongoing Support Services 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A - Resolution_Purchase of Smart Meters 2024-07-23.pdf
3. Attachment B_ Agreement with IPS_Purchase of Smart Meters.pdf
4. Fiscal Impact Certificate_ Smart Parking Meters.pdf
Truth
IPS Group’s motto should be “Stupider Parking for Stupid Cities and Communities”. $344,000 for 31 meters is Very Expensive.
Charging for parking could also be a pre-cursor to charging for Breathing.
Sounds crazy, but so does putting a Tax on a parked car – Or IPS charging a Per Transaction Fee.
Resolution No. 2024-087
Adopt Resolution.
11.3 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF A RETIRED ANNUITANT PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 7522.56 AND 21221(h) Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_ Authorizing Hiring of Retired Annuitant 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_Interim Fire Marshal Resolution.pdf
3. Attachment B_Retired Annuitant Agreement For Temporary Employment.pdf Truth
I had to look up the term “Annuitant”, thanks.
Congrats to Charles Strickland being a temporary Fire Marshal. Hopefully he’s Well-Acquainted with the best techniques in responding to Toxic Lithium Fires, since the people currently running the City seem to want to ensure they happen.
Thanks for serving, Charles.
Resolution No. 2024-088
Adopt Resolution.
11.4 INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 24 (ZONING) OF THE LA MESA MUNICIPAL CODE Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report - Zoning Amendment Ordinance First Reading 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_Draft Title 24 (Zoning) Ordinance 2024-07-23.pdf
3. Attachment B_Appendix B - Reuse Sites Inventory.pdf
4. Attachment C_Housing Element Program 8.pdf
5. Attachment D_PC-2024-07 – Planning Commission Resolution Recommending Approval by Council.pdf Truth
No to Any State Mandate – Especially those that Gentrify and Destroy Neighborhoods with Ugly and Expensive Stack-and-Packs! By-Right approval of the developments with 20% “Affordable” Box Units does Nothing but ensure that Big Corporate Developers rake in Huge Profits while building their projects in communities Without Consent.
The people running the City should be advocating Against All State Bills that Hurt Neighborhoods, contribute to the RHNA Housing Quota Scam, and help Corporate Developers buy up all property in the City! The Real way the City can create Truly Affordable Housing is by Waiving All Fees to build Single Family Homes! AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA AMENDING THE LA MESA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADD A NEW SECTION 24.05.020(A)(6) TO AUTHORIZE BY-RIGHT APPROVAL FOR PROJECTS WITH 20% AFFORDABLE UNITS ON REUSE SITES AS DEFINED PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65583.2 AND IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT, IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM 8 Approve the introduction and first reading of the Ordinance.
11.5 INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA, CALIFORNIA, RELINQUISHING ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY OF THE MOBILEHOME PARKS ACT TO THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Relinquish Authority of MH Parks 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_Ordinance No. 1977-2103.pdf
3. Attachment B_Mobilehome Parks Relinquishment of Authority Draft Ordinance 2024-07-23.pdf Truth
No to the City handing Any Authority over to the State, who has Proven they don’t understand, nor Care about residents in Any City! This also sounds like an attempt by the City to avoid a Performance Evaluation by HCD. Maybe that’s because they tend to Lie. If so, I understand that avoidance.
But the City still needs to take Responsibility over its Own business.
Approve the introduction and first reading of the Ordinance.
11.6 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE AND APPROPRIATION OF A GRANT FROM THE CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL TO CONDUCT A LOCAL TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAM FOR DUI ENFORCEMENT BY APPROVING THE ADDITION OF THE GRANT FUNDS TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGET Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_CHP Cannabis Grant Fund 17902.docx.pdf
2. Attachment A_Resolution CHP Cannabis Grant 17902 2024-2025.pdf
3. Attachment B_FY24-25 CTFGP Grant Agreement - La Mesa PD.pdf Truth
Those $42,000 Digital Message Signs are such a Waste of time and money. They serve as good distractions to driving, that’s about it.
Resolution No. 2024-089
Adopt Resolution.
11.7 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE AND APPROPRIATION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2023 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM (SHSGP) - URBAN AREA SECURITY INITIATIVE (UASI) GRANT OF $96,444 Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_FY 2023 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_FY23 UASI Grant Resolution.pdf
3. Attachment B_FY23 UASI MOU and Standard Assurances - La Mesa.pdf Resolution No. 2024-090
Adopt Resolution.
11.8 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2023 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM (SHSGP) GRANT OF $36,940 FOR TERRORISM PREPAREDNESS Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_FY 2023 State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) Funds.pdf
2. Attachment A_FY23 SHSGP Grant Resolution.pdf
3. Attachment B_FY23 SHSP Award Letter_La Mesa.pdf
4. Attachment C_FY23 SHSP Allocation_Approved.pdf
5. Attachment D_FY23 HSGP Standard Assurances.pdf
Truth
Do Radios Really count as “Terrorism Preparedness Equipment”? Resolution No. 2024-091
Adopt Resolution.
11.9 RESOLUTION REJECTING BID NO. 25-02, INFLOW AND INFILTRATION MITIGATION PHASE 6 SEWER PROJECT Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_ Inflow and Infiltration Phase 6 Reject all Bids.pdf
2. Attachment_Resolution Inflow and Infiltration Phase 6 Reject all Bids.pdf Truth
The fact that the lowest bid was over Double than the City’s estimate is Horrible! The Expensive insurance issue is a State-caused problem, but the Project Labor Agreement wish is Definitely in the City’s ability to Alter or Abolish if it stands in the way of the City getting important infrastructure work done.
Resolution No. 2024-092
Adopt Resolution.
11.10 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER TO PARSONS TRANSPORTATION GROUP, INC. FOR STAFF AUGMENTATION SERVICES Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Approving a Task Order to Parsons for ESA Traffic Engineering Services 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_Resolution ESA Traffic Engineering Services Task Order 2024-07-23.pdf
3. Attachment B_Parsons Transportation Group Proposal.pdf
4. Fiscal Certificate_ESA Traffic Engineering Services.pdf Resolution No. 2024-093
Adopt Resolution.
11.11 RESOLUTION TO AWARD BID 25-04, TYPE B ASPHALT CONCRETE, TO SUPERIOR READY-MIX CONCRETE AND MARTIN MARIETTA Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Staff Report _Bid 25-04_Type B Asphalt Concrete 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_Resolution_Bid 25-04_Type B Asphalt Concrete 2024-07-23.pdf
3. Attachment B_Bid 25-04 Summary.pdf
4. Fiscal Certificate_Type B Asphalt Concrete.pdf
Truth
That was smart to do a Collective Concrete Bid. Too bad the City of La Mesa required the Most concrete! But anytime the City can save money with this method of bidding, please do! By the way, in the Agenda Packet, the Consent Calendar says there’s an Item 11.12, but there Isn’t! Resolution No. 2024-094
Adopt Resolution.
12. ORDINANCE: FIRST READING
Public Comments:
12.1 CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA ADDING LA MESA MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 10.30 REGULATING THE RESIDENTIAL STORAGE OF FIREARMS Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Memo_Ordinance Regulating Residential Storage of Firearms 2024-07-23.pdf
2. Attachment A_Draft Ordinance Firearm Storage 2024-07-23.pdf Dianne Osterling
I support the adoption of the proposal to increase community safety by improving gun safety storage. In 1989 as a Social Work Intern for Lemon Grove School District, I was asked to help at a middle school I didn't usually intern at. The afternoon prior some students of the middle school went to one of their homes. The boy who lived there began showing his dad’s gun off to his friends. During this "playing around" he accidentally shot and killed himself. At least 2 other children were with him and witnessed their friend’s death. I and others were called to the school to provide the students at school opportunities for counseling. This boy did not intend to shoot himself. His father didn't intend to have his son die by a shot from his own gun. Unfortunately, the gun was easy to access. As California increases the density of housing, including ADU's landlords may find value in being able to protect their properties from irresponsible gun storage, avoiding possible liability claims and insurance rate increases as well. Claiming people won't always follow safety precautions is not a good reason to not create and encourage enforcement of health and safety regulations. Public health and public safety are among the highest priorities many people seek from government policies. Please don't be weak on protecting our community. This regulation doesn't prohibit people from gun ownership. It provides the La Mesans an opportunity means to enhance protections of those in their community.
Susan Ehrhardt
I Support Agenda 12.1 - Firearm Storage
Requiring gun owners to secure their firearms is basic common sense in our country where guns are so easy to access.
Michelle
Mandatory Safe Residential Storage of Firearms is a no brainer !We need stronger laws, locally and nationally, to prevent easy access that often leads to acts of domestic violence, accidental deaths and suicide. Please adopt this resolution and make our communities safer ! Michelle Gilgannon
Tama Marie Becker-Varano
I fully support the La Mesa Ordinance on the residential storage of firearms. This ordinance is important for several reasons. Firstly, it significantly enhances safety for children by reducing the risk of accidental shootings, ensuring that curious kids cannot easily access firearms. Secondly, it helps prevent firearms from being stolen and used in criminal activities, which contributes to overall public safety. Thirdly, proper storage can reduce the incidence of suicides by making it more difficult for individuals in crisis to access firearms. Additionally, safe storage laws contribute to the overall health and safety of our community by minimizing gun-related injuries and deaths. Moreover, the ordinance promotes responsible gun ownership and ensures that firearm owners are aware of their legal and ethical responsibilities. It also aligns with broader public health initiatives aimed at reducing violence and injury. Implementing this ordinance is a proactive step towards creating a safer environment for all residents. Thank you for considering this crucial measure to keep our community safe.
John White
I STRONGLY SUPPORT Agenda Item 12.1 - Firearm Storage.
In a country where hundreds of thousands of guns are stolen each year, a proper safe storage law will help prevent theft by discouraging impulsive acts of domestic violence or suicide.
Safe storage laws, including San Francisco's, are consistent with the Second Amendment and have been upheld by all reviewing courts.
I urge the Council to adopt the ordinance.
Respectfully,
John White
Kimberly Weinstein
I strongly support item #12.1 and appreciate that the City Council will take this first step to help keep kids safe. We need a stronger law that requires ALL owners to secure their firearms. A La Mesa ordinance that requires storage in a locked container or with a trigger lock will benefit our community. Safe storage laws are consistent with the Second Amendment and have been upheld by all reviewing courts.
Cory Brin
I support Agenda Item 12.1 - Firearm Storage. An analysis of more than 23,000 stolen firearms recovered by police between 2010 and 2016 found that the majority of these weapons were recovered in connection with crimes, including more than 1,500 violent acts such as murder, kidnapping, and armed robbery.
Given that's true it just makes me think of how much violence we can curb by supporting this ordinance. I grew up in rural Pennsylvania where at 13 I took a hunter's safety course. A large portion of that course was treating firearms safely and keeping them stored in a way that they couldn't pose danger to others. I think if a very red area of the country, and a class taught by firearm enthusiasts can teach safe storage to adolescents, that La Mesa can do the same.
Mechelle Perrott
I support this ordinance regulating firearm storage. It is a practical step in preventing the unintended consequences. Let's do it! Victoria Koenitzer
I support Agenda Item 12.1 - Firearm Storage. Safe storage laws at a local level are needed to close the safe storage loophole in California. California's current laws do not set precise standards for how firearms are stored; they only require "reasonable action" to secure access to a child.
Frisco George
We need a stronger law that requires ALL owners to secure their firearms. Safe storage helps prevent theft, and can slow down & prevent impulsive acts of domestic violence or suicide. Please help keeps us safe.
Eliane Olson
In regards to item #12 on the 7/22/24 agenda, the proposed resolution on Safe Gun Storage is a responsible, prudent and modest measure to protect our community and its most vulnerable, our children. Given in an average year, 3253 Californians die and 7293 are wounded by guns and given it is the third leading cause of death among our Californian children and teens, this is a prudent measure to promote public safety in our community. As an active member of La Mesa First United Methodist church for over 30 years, I support passage of the Safe Storage of Firearms resolution.
Wendy Mihalic
I SUPPORT the adoption of the proposed Ordinance to Regulate Residential Storage of Firearms in La Mesa. Over two million people who live in the greater San Diego area including the City of San Diego, the County and several other cities have been operating under similar ordinances for years. Why not La Mesa? Why wouldn’t we want to keep family members safe from gun accidents? Why wouldn’t we want to make guns harder to steal and keep guns out of the hands of criminals? Why wouldn’t we want to lower the potential for suicide by gun? According to the CDC, firearm suicide rates are at record high levels. These deaths are preventable. Secured firearms impede the opportunity for impulsive suicide attempts, giving suicidal individuals time to contact family, friends, and health-care professionals.
The Brady Foundation states “America’s deadliest shootings are those we rarely discuss: Over half of all gun deaths are suicides. On average, 69 people die of gun suicide each day in America — more than firearm murders and unintentional shootings combined. Firearms are by far the most lethal method of suicide. Amid the backdrop of COVID-19 and record-breaking gun sales, unsecured firearms in gun-owning households risk an increase in suicide.” Claims by some that a loaded gun by their bedside is needed for home defense should take another look. According to the Center for Gun Violence Prevention and Policy, ”… there are quick access safes that … come in all different shapes and sizes, that can facilitate easy access for a gun that would be intended for home defense. If you really felt like you needed something more quickly. There are some that you can access in fewer than five seconds. So the idea that you can't have a gun stored safely, and also have it accessible is an inaccurate narrative. Maybe folks are sort of misinformed about what's available. And these things don't cost a ton of money. “… some of them are available for 30 to $40.” Safe storage regulations are consistent with safety rules by the National Rifle Association to secure firearms when they’re not in use. Responsible gun-owners should WANT to safe their guns when not in use.
I believe the benefits of such a measure speak for themselves and are duly cited in the Draft Ordinance language. Please do not further delay this reasonable safety measure.
Truth
I have to provide a Silent, Boring Email comment on this item because you guys took away the Call-In comment option. I’m currently injured with a Sprained Ankle outta-nowhere, and it’s a complete Mystery to me as to how it even happened.
This item being introduced at This Time seems like a Tactic of Hoping I’d be injured and that everybody will be on summer vacation, and let it pass Unrecognized – Because it appears that Nothing’s changed since it was introduced last year.
Under the Law – the Constitution for the United States of America – There is No Law that regulates “Firearm Storage”! Feel free to read Amendment 2, quote: “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” Endquote.
I question the data or need for this Ordinance, considering that people are more likely to die in a car accident – Jack even said the “Most Dangerous thing a person can do is Drive Alone”! I remember last year, how Experts on storage containers showed just how Expensive they are, and also how they take a Very Long time to open! So basically, whoever wants to survive an Emergency situation such as a Burglary, would most likely Not survive the ordeal if the City Demanded their firearms to be kept locked up in a container. “Easy Access” to a Weapon of Self-Defense is Essential to one’s own Survival! – Especially in a time of increasing thefts, burglaries, and slower police response times.
It was also determined that there will be No Police coming to people’s doors and Demanding access into their homes to check if their firearms are in a container, so what’s the point of the UnLawful and Unenforceable Infraction? It comes across as Fear-Mongering Political Theatre.
And as I pointed out last year, the so-called “exception” to this UnLawful Ordinance is if someone carries all their firearms on their body, or simply has it in their “immediate control” nearby, there’s No requirement of Any kind. Once again, Political Theatre during Election Season! And it sounds like the City is actually Encouraging people to parade around their house looking like Rambo! The NRA Is Nobody to consider Any opinion from since they have Consultative Status with a Foreign Anti-Self-Defense-Firearm International organization: The United Nations.
The March For Our Lives Celebrity-funded organization is Also Nobody to consider Any opinion from, considering some of their members have been prone to Lying! The Ordinance uses the phrase “data Suggested” – Can the City Not find data that Indicates or Confirms? Suggestion does Not suffice as Evidence! The Ordinance Claims that firearms in homes that are easily accessible “increases the dangers of firearm related injuries, deaths, and other crimes”, but does that not Also apply to Knives? If someone has a mental health issue, they Certainly go for knives – That’s Common amongst youth.
That’s why the City should be Discouraging Suicide, Encouraging Mental Health, and providing Firearm Safety Awareness and Training to residents in order to avoid accidents or baseless fear in our society.
I Don’t appreciate the Ordinance Conflating Suicide with Firearm Safety. Those are Separate issues Unnecessarily and Deceptively Wedged.
The Irony of this item is that I spoke about it Last Year at my Very First La Mesa City Council meeting – What are the chances of that! About the Same chance as someone surviving a home invasion Without Easy Access to their Weapon of Self-Defense! No to this UnLawful Ordinance!
Paul Conry
I SUPPORT passage of the Ordinance Regulating the Residential Storage of Firearms. Safe storage laws and regulations save lives. Secure storage via a lock box or trigger lock can prevent accidental shootings when children gain access to a firearm, or provide that few minutes delay or even prevent access to a loved one acting on an impulse to commit suicide. More than half of all firearm deaths are attributed to gun suicides. Save lives and our children by passing these responsible residential gun storage laws that apply to all gun owners.
John Mann
This concerns Agenda Item 12.1 - Firearm Storage. Although California law makes someone criminally liable for leaving a firearm accessible to a minor or to an adult prohibited from possessing a firearm, it does not protect all other households. We need a stronger law that requires ALL owners to secure their firearms. Safe storage helps prevent theft and impulsive acts of domestic violence or suicide. Current California law fails to set precise standards for how firearms are stored. It merely requires "reasonable action" to prevent access to a child. Tragedy can be avoided by a La Mesa ordinance that requires a trigger lock or storage in a locked container. Safe-storage laws, including San Francisco's, are consistent with the Second Amendment and have been upheld by all reviewing courts. Nationally representative survey data suggest that about 380,000 firearms are stolen from their owners each year. From 2006 to '16, the number os firearms stolen from their owners increased by about 60%. An analysis of more than 23,000 stolen firearms recovered by police during that period found that most were recovered in connection with crimes, including more than 1,500 violent acts, such as murder, kidnapping, and robbery. You can see the necessity of establishing a safe-storage ordinance.
Ron Marcus
I support the ordinance regulating the residential storage of firearms. Here are the reasons why:
California law holds gun owners criminally liable for accessible firearms to minors or prohibited adults, but doesn't protect all households. A stronger law requiring all owners to secure firearms is needed to prevent theft and impulsive violent acts, including domestic violence which is all too prevalent. Current CA law lacks precise storage standards, only requiring "reasonable action." A La Mesa ordinance mandating locked containers or trigger locks could easily prevent tragedy. Such safe storage laws are consistent with the Second Amendment and have been upheld by courts. Nationally, about 380,000 guns are stolen annually from individual owners, with thefts increasing by 60% from 2006 to 2016. An analysis of recovered stolen firearms found most were linked to crimes, including over 1,500 violent acts, highlighting the urgent need for stricter gun storage regulations.
Thomas Keener
I SUPPORT the ordinance regulating the residential storage of firearms - as a Vietnam veteran and a husband, father and grandfather, with all 10 of us living in San Diego, it's imperative that we do everything possible to limit homicides, suicides and domestic violence, and also reduce the chance of guns being stolen from homes.
Christopher Glenn
Intimate partner violence and gun violence in the United States are inextricably linked, impacting women, families, and communities across the country. Abusers with firearms are five times more likely to kill their female victims, and guns further exacerbate the power and control dynamic commonly used by abusers to inflict emotional abuse and exert coercive control over their victims. A gun in the home is a significant risk factor for intimidating and for killing family members.
Children in our communities have 11 times the likelihood of being killed accidentally with a gun compared with similarly aged children in other developed countries. In addition to those killed, almost 20 people a day are shot unintentionally but do not die. This number does not include any of the more than 45 people per day who are treated in emergency rooms for injury by firearms in other ways, mostly unintentional.
On the other hand, few studies can provide credible evidence of a deterrent effect of firearms or that a gun in the home reduces the likelihood or severity of injury during an altercation or break-in. Credible groups, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, recognizes this and urge parents not to have guns in the home.
The higher numbers of defensive gun uses—which proxies for more gun carrying and use—are associated with higher numbers of violent crimes, injuries, and fatalities among victims and suspects alike. The more guns being carried and used by citizens produce more incentive and opportunities for criminals to acquire guns, leading to a commensurate increase in the incidence and lethality of crime. Widespread carrying and use of guns is overall more likely to enable violent crimes than to deter them. https://everytownresearch.org/report/guns-and-violence-against-women-americas-uniquely-lethal-intimate-partner-violence-problem/ Ellen Goren
I support ordinance 12.1.
We need a stronger law that requires ALL owners to secure their firearms. Safe storage helps prevent theft, and can slow down & prevent impulsive acts of domestic violence or suicide Gerry Braun
I support Item 12.1, the ordinance regulating the residential storage of firearms, because the children of La Mesa deserve to attend schools and live in neighborhoods that are free of gun violence. A disturbing number of school shootings begin when a minor obtains an unsecured firearm in their home and acts out fantasies of revenge or attention-seeking. Educating gun owners about their responsibility to safely store firearms can only benefit people who live in, work in, or visit La Mesa.
Lisa Klinger
I support Agenda Item 12.1, which will amend La Mesa Muni Code chapter 10.30, REGULATING THE RESIDENTIAL STORAGE OF FIREARMS. We need a stronger law that requires all gun owners to secure their firearms.
Sandy Housley
I strongly support Agenda Item 12.1 concerning the ordinance regulating firearm storage. Safe storage helps prevent theft and slow down and prevent impulsive acts of domestic violence or suicide.
Rob Campbell
Please join me in support of this legislation. Thank you Carol Landale
I strongly support the Regulating Residential Storage of Firearms ordinance. Keeping firearms out of the hands of children and secure from theft is critical to keeping our community safe.
Sarita Ordonez
I fully support the ordinance of the city council of the City of La Mesa adding La Mesa Municipal Code Chapter Regulating the Residential Storage of Firearms.
Thank you,
Sarita Ordonez
Lori Van Orden
I support Agenda Item 12.1, the Ordinance concerning regulation of residential storage of firearms. Secure storage of firearms prevents unintentional injuries, homicides, domestic violence and suicide by gun. Thank you for making our communities safer.
Council Ad Hoc Subcommittee: Councilmember Dillard and Councilmember Shu City Attorney Sabine read the title of the Ordinance.
Councilmember Shu outlined the drafting process of the Ordinance and explained why this specific version was being presented to the Council for consideration.
Council questions and comments ensued.
The following members of the public spoke or submitted a comment in support of the Ordinance regulating the residential storage of firearms:
Janet Castanos
Wendy Mihalic
Carol Landale
Gerry Braun
Louis Knowlton
Therese Hymer
Eliane Olson
Frisco George
Victoria Koenitzer
Mechelle Perrott
Cory Bin
Kimberly Weinstein
John White
Tama Marie Becker-Varano
Michelle
Susan Ehrhardt
Dianne Osterling
Paul Conry
John Mann
Ron Marcus
Thomas Keener
Ellen Goren
Lisa Klinger
Sandy Housley
Rob Campbell
Sarita Ordonez
Lori Van Orden
Truth submitted a comment in opposition of the Ordinance regulating the residential storage of firearms.
Christopher Glenn submitted a comment regarding the dangers of having guns in the home.
Moved By
Councilmember Shu
Seconded By
Councilmember Parent
Approve the introduction and first reading of the Ordinance.
For (3)
Councilmember Shu, Councilmember Parent, and Councilmember Dillard Against (2)
Mayor Arapostathis, and Vice Mayor Lothian
Approved (3 to 2)
13. WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
Public Comments:
13.1 LETTER FROM THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES REQUESTING THE DESIGNATION OF A VOTING DELEGATE AND ALTERNATE FOR THE ANNUAL LEAGUE CONFERENCE, OCTOBER 16 THROUGH OCTOBER 18, 2024, IN LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA Attachments
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Public Comments
1. 2024 Cal Cities Voting Delegate Information Packet.pdf Truth
My recommendation is that the City does Not choose voting members, and instead, Saves Money by Permanently Leaving this organization that has done Nothing with the Consent of the Governed, and is actually contributing to a Loss of Local Representation! Truth submitted a comment recommending that the City not select a voting member and instead end its membership in the League of California Cities.
ACTION
:
Following discussion, it was the consensus of the Council to designate Councilmember Dillard as the voting delegate for the Annual League Conference.
14. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS (3 MINUTE LIMIT)
Public Comments
Truth
Can Mark Forget me this time if I’m Not in person?
I guess I’m like a Cut Tree alone in the wilderness.
I’d love to hear these reports Live, but it’s Not an option today.
So, please note that I’m Against MTS and SANDAG – They Both need to be Eliminated! I’m also Against Jack Omitting All mention of SANDAG – Or mentioning SANDAG Only when I’m Not there! For Patricia – I may Boycott MTS, and take Back All my Thursdays! For Colin – You don’t need to provide reports, thank you.
For Laura – I request that you make up a report since you seemed to have something to say to Patricia last time I was providing my own report.
If anyone actually read these comments, good on you.
I owe you a Gold Star.
The Mayor and Council reported on various outside boards, commissions and committee meetings they attended. No action was taken.
15. AB 1234 REPORTS (GC 53232.3 (d))
Public Comments:
There were no reports.
16. CITY ATTORNEY REMARKS
Public Comments:
There were no remarks.
17. ADJOURNMENT
Public Comments:
At 7:10 p.m., Mayor Arapostathis adjourned the meeting in memory of long-time resident and community volunteer Susan Dyke.