City Council - January 27, 2026
1. CALL TO ORDER
Public Comments:
The City Council minutes are prepared and ordered to correspond to the City Council Agenda. Agenda Items may 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 6:01 p.m.
1.1 INVOCATION - COUNCILMEMBER SUZUKI
Public Comments:
1.2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Public Comments:
2. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
Public Comments:
There were no comments.
3. 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.
4. ADDITIONS AND/OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
Public Comments:
There were no additions or deletions to the agenda.
5. PRESENTATIONS
Public Comments:
5.1 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT PRESENTATION
Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Memo_Climate Action Plan Progress Report Presentation 2026.pdf
2. 5.1 PowerPoint_CAP Progress Report Presentation 1.27.26.pdf Environmental Manager Ego, Environmental Program Coordinator Lee, and CivicSpark Fellows Clio Goodwin and Maya Feldman-Dragich presented the City’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) Progress Report, noting the CAP was adopted in 2018 and updated in 2024 as a roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing community co-benefits. The report highlighted recent outreach and engagement efforts, youth and staff education, and implementation activities across clean energy, building efficiency, transportation, water conservation, waste reduction, and urban forestry, including tree giveaways and expansion of EV charging and solar at City facilities. Staff also referenced regional greenhouse gas inventory data and ongoing coordination with partner agencies and community organizations. Staff stated that, looking ahead to 2026, the City would focus on initiatives such as the Home Energy Fair, Extreme Heat Action Plan, EV Charging Station Master Plan, additional clean-up events, and pursuing grant funding to support CAP programs.
Council questions and comments ensued.
5.2 PRESENTATION OF THE PUBLIC PARTNER OF THE YEAR AWARD TO THE CITY OF LA MESA BY THE SAN DIEGO COUNTY BICYCLE COALITION Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Memo_Presentation of Award from San Diego County Bicycle Coalition 2027-01-27.pdf Executive Director Chloe Lauer of the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition presented Mayor Arapostathis, on behalf of the City of La Mesa, with the Partner of the Year Award and highlighted the City’s efforts and accomplishments that led to the recognition.
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS – (TOTAL TIME – 15 MINUTES)
Public Comments:
Russ Buckley spoke about the Challenge Center.
7. CONFLICT DISCLOSURES
Public Comments:
There were no conflicts of interest disclosed.
8. BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEWS
Public Comments:
8.1 ANNUAL INTERVIEW OF APPLICANTS FOR OPENINGS ON THE CITY’S COMMUNITY POLICE OVERSIGHT BOARD Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Memo_2026 CPOB Annual Interview 2026-01-27.pdf
2. Attachment A - 2026 Applicant Matrix_CPOB.pdf
City Clerk Wiegelman briefly explained the interview process.
The following applicants spoke regarding their qualifications and interest in being appointed or reappointed to the Community Police Oversight Board:
Bonnie Baranoff
Clifton Ewbank
Aaron Landau
Todd McCully
Jeffrey McIllwain
Elizabeth Morgante
Susan Reeder
City Clerk Wiegelman said the appointments would be made at the February 10 City Council meeting.
8.2 INTERVIEW OF APPLICANTS FOR THE UNSCHEDULED VACANCY ON THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Memo_Parks and Recreation Commission Interview Unscheduled Vacancy 2026-01-27.pdf
2. Attachment A _List of Applicants Parks and Recreation Commission_January.pdf City Clerk Wiegelman briefly explained the interview process.
The following applicants spoke regarding their qualifications and interest in being appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission:
Jonathan Austin
Cherie Meek
Jason Molen
City Clerk Wiegelman said the appointment would be made at the February 10 City Council meeting.
9. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
Public Comments:
There were no comments on Consent Calendar items.
10. CONSENT CALENDAR
Public Comments:
(Items 10.1 through 10.6)
Vice Mayor Cazares made comments on Item 10.3.
Moved By
Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By
Vice Mayor Cazares
Approve Consent Calendar Items 10.1 through 10.6.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Dillard, Councilmember Lothian, Vice Mayor Cazares, and Councilmember Suzuki Approved (5 to 0)
10.1 APPROVAL OF MOTION TO WAIVE THE READING OF THE TEXT OF ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS AT THIS MEETING Public Comments:
Approve.
10.2 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING HELD TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Post-Meeting Minutes - CCM_Jan13_2026.pdf
Approve.
10.3 ACCEPTANCE OF THE SINGLE AUDIT OF FEDERALLY ASSISTED GRANT PROGRAMS FOR THE YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2024 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Memo_FY 2024 Single Audit 2026-01-27.pdf
2. Attachment A - FY 2024 Single Audit 2026-01-27.pdf
Approve.
10.4 LA MESA PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Grant Application_La Mesa Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program 2026-01-27.pdf
2. Attachment A - Resolution_Grant Application_La Mesa Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program .pdf
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY (OTS) GRANT PROGRAM TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR THE LA MESA PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM AND IF AWARDED, ACCEPTING AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE PROJECT Resolution No. 2026-005
Adopt Resolution.
10.5 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT WITH AXON ENTERPRISE, INC. FOR AXON PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Axon Agreement for Services 2026-01-27.pdf
2. Attachment A - Resolution_Axon Agreement.pdf
3. Attachment B - Axon Enterprise, Inc. Quotes.pdf
4. Attachment C - Axon Draft Agreement.pdf
5. Attachment D - Axon Master Services and Purchasing Agreement.pdf Resolution No. 2026-006
Adopt Resolution.
10.6 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT WITH CCS FACILITY SERVICES FOR JANITORIAL AND CUSTODIAL SERVICES FOR CITY FACILITIES Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Agreement for Janitorial and Custodial Services 2026-01-27.pdf
2. Attachment A - Resolution_Janitorial Services_CCS_2026.pdf
3. Attachment B - CCS Facility Services_Agreement_Janitorial Services_2026.pdf Resolution No. 2026-007
Adopt Resolution.
11. ORDINANCES: FIRST READING
Public Comments:
11.1 CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA REPEALING LA MESA MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 18.18 - SIDEWALK CAFES Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Ordinance Repealing Chapter 18.18 of the La Mesa Municipal Code.pdf
2. Attachment A - Draft Ordinance repealing LMMC Chapter 18.18.pdf
3. Attachment B - Existing Sidewalk Dining Ordinance.pdf
4. Attachment C - CD Zone Map.pdf
5. 11.1 PowerPoint_Sidewalk Dining Ordinance.pdf
Director of Community Development Santos presented the proposed ordinance to repeal La Mesa Municipal Code Chapter 18.18 (Sidewalk Cafes) and outlined the distinction between existing sidewalk cafe and outdoor dining regulations, including the temporary flexibility that had been granted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the update was to streamline the process for outdoor dining, activate commercial frontages, support economic development, and maintain clear pedestrian paths.
City Attorney Sabine read the title of the Ordinance.
Moved By
Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By
Vice Mayor Cazares
Approve the introduction and first reading of the Ordinance.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Dillard, Councilmember Lothian, Vice Mayor Cazares, and Councilmember Suzuki Approved (5 to 0)
12. STAFF REPORTS
Public Comments:
12.1 CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION ADOPTING A POLICY FOR SIDEWALK DINING IN COMMERCIAL ZONES Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Staff Report_Sidewalk Dining Policy 2026-01-27.pdf
2. Attachment A - Draft Resolution Adopting the Sidewalk Dining Policy.pdf
3. Attachment B - Existing Sidewalk Dining Ordinance No. 1984-2358.pdf
4. Attachment C - Downtown Commercial Zone Map.pdf
5. Attachment D - Community Workshop 1 Engagement Summary.pdf
6. Attachment E - First Draft Sidewalk Dining Policy.pdf
7. Attachment F - Public Comments and Staff Response Summary.pdf
8. Attachment G - Proposed Final Draft Sidewalk Dining Policy.pdf
9. Attachment H - Redline Strike-Through Sidewalk Dining Policy Changes.pdf
10. 12.1 PowerPoint_Sidewalk Dining Policy.pdf
Senior Planner Merker presented the proposed Sidewalk Dining Policy, outlining goals to streamline permitting, activate commercial frontages, support economic development, and maintain accessible paths of travel. She summarized outreach efforts, key policy components, and updated standards addressing location eligibility, permit process and renewals, fencing, furniture, tree protections, accessibility clearances, and hours of operation. Senior Planner Merker also reviewed implementation timelines and transition provisions for existing operators, including temporary permits and compliance deadlines.
Council questions and comments ensued.
The following members of the public spoke in support of the proposed Sidewalk Dining Policy, subject to amendments to specific sections:
Gerald Torres
Mark Hunter
Tony Gaipa
Brenda Leek
Alberto Morreale
Council questions and comments continued.
Resolution No. 2026-008
Moved By
Vice Mayor Cazares
Seconded By
Councilmember Lothian
(1) Adopt the Resolution adopting a policy for sidewalk dining in commercial zones, with Sections 7, 9, and 10 of the policy amended to read as follows:
Section 7: The Sidewalk Dining Permit shall expire three (3) years from the date of issuance and may be renewed for successive three-year terms. Permits shall be automatically renewed administratively unless the permittee has incurred multiple significant violations, as determined by the City, of applicable permit conditions or municipal regulations.
In the event of such violations, the City shall provide written notice of infraction to the permittee within fourteen (14) business days of receipt of a complaint. The permittee shall be afforded thirty (30) days to correct the identified violations prior to the permit’s expiration date, except where the nature of the violation poses an immediate threat to public health or safety.
If the permit expires and is not renewed within thirty (30) days following the expiration date, all sidewalk dining furniture and equipment shall be removed in its entirety from the public right-of-way by the permittee.
Section 9: Any Sidewalk Dining Permit may be terminated for the City’s convenience at any time, upon ninety (90) days’ prior written notice, by the sole determination of a vote of the City Council.
Section 10: Sidewalk dining hours shall coincide with the operating hours of the associated food or beverage establishment. Beginning at 10:00 p.m., no additional patrons shall be seated in sidewalk dining areas. Patrons seated prior to 10:00 p.m. may remain until their dining service is complete. All sidewalk dining furniture and appurtenances shall be removed from the public right-of-way within one (1) hour of the establishment’s closing time. (2) Direct City staff, within sixty (60) days of adoption, to publicly publish a detailed and transparent process outlining: (a) how violations are reported and addressed; and (b) the process by which businesses may appeal enforcement actions or permit termination decisions.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Dillard, Councilmember Lothian, Vice Mayor Cazares, and Councilmember Suzuki Approved (5 to 0)
13. COUNCIL INITIATED
Public Comments:
13.1 ELECTRIC MICROMOBILITY VEHICLES (E-BIKES) ORDINANCE Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. CI.Suzuki_E-Bikes Ordinance.pdf
CONSIDERATION OF DIRECTING STAFF TO DRAFT AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING RULES GOVERNING THE USE OF E-BIKES WITHIN THE CITY TO PROTECT THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE OF RIDERS OF E-BIKES AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC - COUNCILMEMBER SUZUKI Councilmember Suzuki explained the purpose of requesting that the Council direct staff to draft an ordinance establishing rules governing the use of e-bikes within the City, emphasizing that the safety of residents and visitors is a top priority. She stated the current regulatory framework needs to be evaluated to ensure City policies adequately address community safety.
Moved By
Councilmember Suzuki
Seconded By
Mayor Arapostathis
Direct staff to draft an ordinance establishing rules governing the use of e-bikes within the City to protect the health, safety, and welfare of riders of e-bikes and the general public.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Dillard, Councilmember Lothian, Vice Mayor Cazares, and Councilmember Suzuki Approved (5 to 0)
13.2 CONSIDERATION OF THE CITY BECOMING A MEMBER OF THE GovAI COALITION FOUNDED BY THE CITY OF SAN JOSE TO ADVANCE RESPONSIBLE AND PURPOSEFUL ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE PRACTICES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR - COUNCILMEMBER SUZUKI Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. CI.Suzuki_GovAI Coalition Membership.pdf
Councilmember Suzuki explained the purpose of requesting Council approval for the City to become a member of the GovAI Coalition, a national network of public agencies promoting responsible and effective AI use in government. She noted the Coalition provides free resources such as NIST-aligned policy templates, procurement and vendor accountability tools, training, and opportunities for peer collaboration to support AI governance while addressing risks related to privacy, bias, and safety. She stated that membership reflects La Mesa’s commitment to protecting residents’ privacy and civil rights while thoughtfully and responsibly leveraging AI to enhance public services.
Council questions and comments ensued.
Moved By
Councilmember Suzuki
Seconded By
Councilmember Dillard
Approve City membership in the GovAI Coalition, founded by the City of San Jose, to support the advancement of responsible and purposeful artificial intelligence practices in the public sector.
For (5)
Mayor Arapostathis, Councilmember Dillard, Councilmember Lothian, Vice Mayor Cazares, and Councilmember Suzuki Approved (5 to 0)
14. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS (3 MINUTE LIMIT)
Public Comments:
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:
Councilmember Suzuki reported that she attended the League of California Cities Conference in Sacramento, California, from January 20–30, 2026, where she participated in the Governance, Transparency, and Labor Relations Committee meeting.
16. CITY ATTORNEY REMARKS
Public Comments:
There were no remarks.
17. ADJOURNMENT
Public Comments:
Mayor Arapostathis adjourned the meeting at 8:01 p.m.