Minutes — La Verne City Council, August 7, 2023

MINUTES OF A STUDY SESSION

OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

LA VERNE ON CHRISTMAS MORNING EVENT
Monday, August 7, 2023
A studysessionmeetingoftheLaVerneCityCouncilwascalledto orderbyMayorHepburnat 5:31p.m.

Council Present Mayor Tim Hepburn
Mayor Pro Tem Wendy L. Lau
Council Member Rick Crosby
Council Member Steven Frank Johnson
Absent Council Member Meshal " Kash" Kashifalghita
Advisory personnel present City Manager Ken Domer
Assistant City Manager JR Ranells
City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow
STUDY SESSION ON The City Council met in a study session to review the Christmas Morning CHRISTMAS MORNING Tradition, understandthe logisticsof a successfulevent, and hear community EVENT input into the City's celebration of the holiday.

After City Council reviewed and discussed the matter, Mayor Hepburn called for public comment. ( Below is a summary of public comments, please visit the City' s website to view the archived Council meeting and hear the comments in full.)
The following La Verne residents spoke regarding the Christmas Morning tradition how special and important it was to their families, they offered suggestions regarding how to continue the tradition with recruiting of volunteers.

Others supported the need for a change.

Danita Beachamp, Pam Berry, Kathy Kalousek, Anna Anderson, Joe Gabaldon, Lilly Briain, Richard Bowen, Carla Moro, Marlene Carney, Thomas Allison, Dave Bonanno, Cynthia Tiner, and Stephen Wiard.

Emailed statements received from La Verne residents: Sherry Best, Gerrie Martinez, Jen Kesterson, Paige Rode, and Sonya Whatley regarding the Christmas Morning Event are attached.

Adjournment at 7:07 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
414.

Debra Fritz
Deputy City Clerk
MINUTES OF A STUDY SESSION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA VERNE ON CHRISTMAS MORNING EVENT Monday, August 7, 2023 A study session meeting of the La Verne City Council was called to order by Mayor Hepburn at 5:31 pm. Council Present Mayor Tim Hepburn Mayor Pro Tem Wendy L. Lau Council Member Rick Crosby Council Member Steven Frank Johnson Absent Council Member Meshal “Kash' Kashifalghita Advisory personnel present City Manager Ken Domer Assistant City Manager JR Ranells City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow STUDY SESSION ON The City Council met in a study session to review the Christmas Morning CHRISTMAS MORNING Tradition, understand the logistics of a successful event, and hear community EVENT input into the City’s celebration of the holiday. After City Council reviewed and discussed the matter, Mayor Hepburn called for public comment. (Below Is a summary of public comments, please visit the City’s website to view the archived Council meeting and hear the comments in full.) The following La Verne residents spoke regarding the Christmas Morning tradition how special and important it was to their families, they offered suggestions regarding how to continue the tradition with recruiting of volunteers. Others supported the need for a change. Danita Beachamp, Pam Berry, Kathy Kalousek, Anna Anderson, Joe Gabaldon, Lilly Briain, Richard Bowen, Carla Moro, Marlene Carney, Thomas Allison, Dave Bonanno, Cynthia Tiner, and Stephen Vlﬁard.

Martinez, Jen Christmas Mo ning Event are attached. Emailed stateTents received from La Verne residents: Sherry Best, Gerrie Adjournment at 7:07 pm. I Respectfully submitted, We} Debra Fritz Deputy City Clerk Kesterson, Paige Rode, and Sonya Whatley regarding the
Honorable Mayor Tim Hepburnand Members of the LaVerne CityCouncil:

August 3, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It hascometo myattentionthattherewill bediscussiononAugust7, 2023regardingLaVerne's traditional Christmasdaycelebration. Formanyyears, membersof the city fire department havetraveledthroughoutLaVernewithSantaClausonavintagefiretruck, wavingto LaVerne residents and giving out candy to children. This event is much anticipated and appreciated, but it istime to reconsiderthis tradition andcreatea newwayto celebrate.

My understanding is that members of La Verne's fire department participated in this event but stopped participating in 2019. Lacking sufficient fire department members to perform this task, in 2019 city staff members were asked to replace the fire department members. Replacement of fire department members with city staff solidified into the " new normal", with more than 30 city staff members and additional volunteers taking over the duties of distributing candy to waiting children in 2023. There were several unfortunate consequences of this change and to this tradition in general, as follows:

1. Citystaff membershadto relinquishtheir entire Christmasdaywith their own families on a nationalholiday. Someof thesestaffmembershavetheir own youngchildrenwho miss their parents on Christmas Day. City staff members already relinquish July 4th to the needs of residents.

2. City staff members are not essential to protect La Verne residents, as are members of the policeandfire departments. Assuch, they hadnoexpectationto servethe city residentson Christmasdaywhen initially employed. Thereisa questionof the legality of requiring service of city staff members on Christmas day.

3. The tradition of the fire engine with Santa and distribution of toys and gifts was imposed on city staff and then became a permanent expectation. It is time to revisit this dynamic.

4. For some, Christmasis a sacred holiday and is observed in formal ways. Someattend ChristmasEvechurch-basedserviceslate in the evening, and others attend serviceson Christmas day. Religiously observant staff are made to relinquish this practice to attend to city duties. Public employers have increasingly recognized the inappropriateness of requiringsuchdutiesfrom observantmembersof specificfaiths, or mitigatingagainst practitioners of such faiths when they exercise their rights to decline to serve.

5. AsLaVernehasgrown, sohasits populationandthe potentialfor waiting childrento miss the opportunity to have a meaningful interaction with Santa Claus. For some children and other residents of La Verne, this tradition has devolved into a swift race along one'sstreet insteadof an enjoyable, meaningful event. There is alsothe possibility that some streets will be missed altogether, with disappointment as a result.

Honorable Mayor Tim Hepburn and Members of the La Verne City Council: August 3, 2023 To Whom It May Concern:

It has come to my attention that there will be discussion on August 7, 2023 regarding La Verne’s traditional Christmas day celebration. For many years, members of the city ﬁre department have traveled throughout La Verne with Santa Claus on a vintage ﬁre truck, waving to La Verne residents and giving out candy to children. This event is much anticipated and appreciated, but it is time to reconsider this tradition and create a new way to celebrate. My understanding is that members of La Verne's ﬁre department participated in this event but stopped participating in 2019. Lacking sufﬁcient ﬁre department members to perform this task, in 2019 city staff members were asked to replace the ﬁre department members. Replacement of ﬁre department members with city staff solidiﬁed into the ”new normal”, with more than 30 city staff members and additional volunteers taking over the duties of distributing candy to waiting children in 2023. There were several unfortunate consequences of this change and to this tradition in general, as follows: 1. City staff members had to relinquish their entire Christmas day with their own families on a national holiday. Some of these staff members have their own young children who miss their parents on Christmas Day. City staff members already relinquish July 4‘" to the needs of residents. 2. City staff members are not essential to protect La Verne residents, as are members of the police and ﬁre departments. As such, they had no expectation to serve the city residents on Christmas day when initially employed. There is a question of the legality of requiring service of city staff members on Christmas day. 3. The tradition of the ﬁre engine with Santa and distribution of toys and gifts was imposed on city staff and then became a permanent expectation. It is time to revisit this dynamic. 4. For some, Christmas is a sacred holiday and is observed in formal ways. Some attend Christmas Eve church-based services late in the evening, and others attend services on Christmas day. Religiously observant staff are made to relinquish this practice to attend to city duties. Public employers have increasingly recognized the inappropriateness of requiring such duties from observant members of speciﬁc faiths, or mitigating against practitioners of such faiths when they exercise their rights to decline to serve. 5. As La Verne has grown, so has its population and the potential for waiting children to miss the opportunity to have a meaningful interaction with Santa Claus. For some children and other residents of La Verne, this tradition has devolved into a swift race along one’s street instead of an enjoyable, meaningful event. There is also the possibility that some streets will be missed altogether, with disappointment as a result.

It isin my natureto view everychallengeasanopportunity for moreconstructiveaction. I have thought for some time about how to maintain a tradition that is joyous without undue burden to afew atthe expenseof many. Frequently, whenwe think in freshwaysandapportionthe burdenmoreevenly, asolutionappearsthathasunintendedpositiveconsequences. My suggestions are as follows:

1. Schedulethefiretruckvisitto adayotherthanChristmas. I suggestaweekenddaysuch asthe Saturdaybefore ChristmasDay. Another option would be to scheduleseveral visits on late afternoons or weeknights.

2. Reducethe burdento driversandresidentsbyschedulingthe truckto appearfor several hoursintheneighborhoodwith routeterminationatacityparkinthatdistrict.

Residentscouldwaitforthetruckto drivebytheir houseor bringtheirchildrento the park to visit Santa. After time in each district, the truck would go to the next district location. Visitstodistrictsondifferentdayswouldreducethestaffingburdenonany given day.

3. ParentswhoareinterestedinseeingthetruckandvisitingwithSantawouldtaketheir children to the park. After all, parents take their children to see Santa at Mainiero Square, andonadayotherthanChristmas. Thiscouldtun intoafunfamilyritual.

4. Requirecity councilmembersto be presentat the park alignedwith their district. This way, city councilmembersaredirectly participatory, give up afew hoursof their time, and connect with their district constituents. City council members should be instrumentalinrecruitingresidentconstituentsto helpwithcandyandtoydistribution and maybe even decorating that part of the park where the firetruck stops).

5. A schedulecanbe developedfor firetruck locationsand stops; the schedulewould be posted on the city calendar.

AsPresidentof the LaVerneHistoricalSociety, no one appreciatestradition morethan I.

However, we must realizethat LaVernehasgrownto a populationsizeof over32,000, and.

Although limited geographically, is still much larger than it was when this tradition began. It is possibleto preservethe spiritof thistraditionwithout placinganexcessiveburdenoncitystaff members who value their family time as much as anyone else.

Making this change would not " take Santa away from children", as some may claim. Rather, this new approach will create an additional opportunity to build community in LaVerne, as people cometogether, decoratetheir parkspace, andeagerlygreetSantaon hisvisit through their neighborhood.

Thank you for this opportunity to speak.

Sherry Best
It is in my nature to view every challenge as an opportunity for more constructive action. I have thought for some time about how to maintain a tradition that is joyous without undue burden to a few at the expense of many. Frequently, when we think in fresh ways and apportion the burden more evenly, a solution appears that has unintended positive consequences. My suggestions are as follows: 1. Schedule the ﬁretruck visit to a day other than Christmas. I suggest a weekend day such as the Saturday before Christmas Day. Another option would be to schedule several visits on late afternoons or weeknights. 2. Reduce the burden to drivers and residents by scheduling the truck to appear for several hours in the neighborhood with route termination at a city park in that district. Residents could wait for the truck to drive by their house or bring their children to the park to visit Santa. After time in each district, the truck would go to the next district location. Visits to districts on different days would reduce the staffing burden on any given day. 3. Parents who are interested in seeing the truck and visiting with Santa would take their children to the park. After all, parents take their children to see Santa at Mainiero Square, and on a clay other than Christmas. This could tun into a fun family ritual. 4. Require city council members to be present at the park aligned with their district. This way, city council members are directly participatory, give up a few hours of their time, and connect with their district constituents. City council members should be instrumental in recruiting resident constituents to help with candy and toy distribution (and maybe even decorating that part of the park where the ﬁretruck stops). 5. A schedule can be developed for ﬁretruck locations and stops; the schedule would be posted on the city calendar. As President of the La Verne Historical Society, no one appreciates tradition more than I. However, we must realize that La Verne has grown to a population size of over 32,000, and. Although limited geographically, is still much larger than it was when this tradition began. It is possible to preserve the spirit of this tradition without placing an excessive burden on city staff members who value their family time as much as anyone else. Making this change would not ”take Santa away from children”, as some may claim. Rather, this new approach will create an additional opportunity to build community in La Verne, as people come together, decorate their park space, and eagerly greet Santa on his visit through their neighborhood. Thank you for this opportunity to speak. Sherry Best Debra Fritz
From: Gerrie Martinez < guppieeyes@gmail. com>
Sent: Thursday, August 3, 2023 11:32 PM
To: cityclerk
Subject: Christmas in La Verne
To whom it may concern.

I have been a resident of LaVerne for just over 2 years. I grew up in Glendora and prior to moving here, I had no idea of the amazing Santa visit that occurs every Christmas in this town. As a mother to a now 4 year old, I can not explain the joy shegets from this eachyear. I am so gladthis city is so amazingto the people that live here.

That said, I am very aware of the burden this puts on law enforcement, the fire department, and the city staff who take their Christmas mornings away from their families to bring this joy to our home. As much aswe enjoy this, I am a proponent of moving this to a different day or canceling altogether to give these folks their Christmas day back.

Sincerely,
Gerrie Martinez.

A La Verne resident.

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Debra Fritz From: Sent: To: Subject:

To whom it may concern.

Gerrie Martinez <[email protected]> Thursday, August 3, 2023 11:32 PM cityclerk Christmas in La Verne l have been a resident of La Verne forjust over 2 years. I grew up in Glendora and prior to moving here, i had no idea of the amazing Santa visit that occurs every Christmas in this town. As a mother to a now 4 year old, I can not explain the joy she gets from this each year. I am so glad this city is so amazing to the people that live here. That said, I am very aware of the burden this puts on law enforcement, the ﬁre department, and the city staff who take their Christmas mornings away from their families to bring this joy to our home. As much as we enjoy this, I am a proponent of moving this to a different day or canceling altogether to give these folks their Christmas day back. Sincerely, Gerrie Martinez. A La Verne resident.

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Lupe Estrella
From: Jen Kesterson < 123justjen@gmail. com>
Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 10:37 AM
To: Ken Domer; Lupe Estrella; tjh@gehled. com; wmlau76@gmail. com; laverne.insurance@gmail. com; mkash005@yahoo. com; rickcrosbylaverne@gmail. com Subject: Commentsfor ChristmasMorning StudySession
Goodmorningeveryone,
I amsubmittingmycommentsto theChristmasMorningStudySession, asI willnotbeavailableto attend tonight' s meeting. Thankyoufor the opportunity.

My name is Jennifer Kesterson, a long-time La Verne resident. I am speaking as both a private citizen and as a CERT team memberwho has volunteeredto support this event for the past several years.

First, asaprivatecitizen. IhavelivedinLaVerneforalmost30years. IlovetheChristmasMorningtraditionandlook forwardtoiteveryyear. Iappreciatethelonghistoryandthespecialholdit hasonthecommunity. Ilistenforthesirens andlookfor Santaonthefiretruck. Whenit finallyarrives, Ihurryout to waveatSantaandthe workers.

I takepicturesandsendthemtomyfamilywithamessage "MerryChristmasfromSmallTownUSA!" Asa CERTvolunteer, I haveridden onthe backof the truckor walkedthe streetto delivergoodiebags. Forthe past fewyears, IalsoattendedtheplanningcommitteemeetingsandhelpedrecruitCERTvolunteersto driveor navigate the vehiclesonthe routes. I experiencedthe major challengesthat the committee, staff, and volunteers face every year.

EventuallyI cameto realizethatthe1or2minutesofthisspecialholidaytraditioninfrontofmyhousecomesata great cost to City staff and the volunteers who are expected to participate for the duration of the event-- rain or shine, startingbefore6amandendinginthelateafternoon. Mostresidentsdonotrealizetheenormityoftheplanning, time, and resourcesrequired, and the burden on Citystaff, the Fire Department, andvolunteers to make it happen, year after year.

Forthisreason, Isupportthecommittee'snewproposalto relievethe burdenonCitystaff, FireDepartment personnel, and volunteers so they cancelebrate Christmas Daywith their families.

Thank you,
Jennifer Kesterson
Thisemailhasbeenscannedfor spamandvirusesby ProofpointEssentials. Clickhereto reportthis emailasspam. 1 Luge Estrella From: Jen Kesterson <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 10:37 AM To: Ken Domer, Lupe Estrella; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Comments for Christmas Morning Study Session Good morning everyone, I am submitting my comments to the Christmas Morning Study Session, as I will not be available to attend tonight's meeting. Thank you for the opportunity. My name is Jennifer Kesterson, a long-time La Verne resident. I am speaking as both a private citizen and as a CERT team member who has volunteered to support this event for the past several years. First, as a private citizen. I have lived in La Verne for almost 30 years. I love the Christmas Morning tradition and look forward to it every year. I appreciate the long history and the special hold it has on the community. I listen for the sirens and look for Santa on the ﬁre truck. When it ﬁnally arrives, I hurry out to wave at Santa and the workers. I take pictures and send them to my family with a message "Merry Christmas from Small Town USA!" As a CERT volunteer, I have ridden on the back of the truck or walked the street to deliver goodie bags. For the past few years, I also attended the planning committee meetings and helped recruit CERT volunteers to drive or navigate the vehicles on the routes. I experienced the major challenges that the committee, staff, and volunteers face every year. Eventually I came to realize that the 1 or 2 minutes of this special holiday tradition in front of my house comes at a great cost to City staff and the volunteers who are expected to participate for the duration of the event -- rain or shine, starting before 63m and ending in the late afternoon. Most residents do not realize the enormity of the planning, time, and resources required, and the burden on City staff, the Fire Department, and volunteers to make it happen, year after year. For this reason, I support the committee's new proposal to relieve the burden on City staff, Fire Department personnel, and volunteers so they can celebrate Christmas Day with their families. Thank you, Jennifer Kesterson This email has been scanned for spam and viruses by Proofpoint Essentials. Click here to report this email as spam.

Lupe Estrella
From: Paige Rode < rode849@verizon. net>
Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 3:06 PM
To: Ken Domer; Lupe Estrella; tjh@gehled. com; wmlau76@gmail. com; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Council Study Session Christmas Morning & Holiday Events Hello,
I am hopingto attendthe CityCouncilStudySessiontonightif I amableto leaveworkintime. In case Idonotmakeitintimetoattend, IwantedtosharemythoughtsontheChristmasmorningSanta tradition.

I thinkit goeswithoutsaying, thiseventisa veryspecialtraditionforgenerationsoffamiliesinLa Verne. I understandthelogisticsoforchestratingtheSantadrivethrougheveryneighborhoodinLa VerneonChristmasmorningismuchmoredifficultandchallengingthanitwasover100yearsago. I also respect the need for people to spend time with their families on the holidays.

However, I amhopingweexploreeveryavenueto makesurethismuch-lovedeventcontinues. The ChristmasmorningeventandLaVerne4thofJulyiswhatsetsLaVerneapartfromall otherlocal Cities. PeoplearedrawntoLaVerneforthesafe, familyfriendlyandcommunityatmospherethese eventshelptocreate. WhilerecentcircumstancesarenegativelyimpactingLaVerneandthreatening to changeour cityforever (mostnotably740Foothill) nowisthe time to holdtightto the positive things that bringour communitytogetherand make it a wonderfulplaceto live.

I do have a couple of ideas. What if we got rid of the goody bags? That way less volunteers would be needed, and the processwouldmovequickerthroughthe neighborhoods. Also, what if the routewas splitbetweenChristmasEveandChristmasDay, alternatingyears. Thatwaypeoplecomingtospend ChristmasinLaVernewouldstillbeabletoenjoythetradition. I don't thinkweeknightsbefore Christmaswouldgetmuchattentionandmostpeoplewouldprobablymissit. CantheCityallocate more in the budget for this important event? I know it is past budget time, but was this discussed? Anyway, I don't envyyouhavingtodiscusschangingorstoppinganover100-yeartradition. Please take it under great consideration.

Thankyou very muchfor everythingyoudo for the residentsof LaVerne. We appreciateyou! Sincerely,
Paige Rode
849 Dogwood Drive
Thisemailhasbeenscannedfor spamandvirusesby ProofpointEssentials. Clickhereto reportthis emailasspam. 1 Luge Estrella From: Paige Rode <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 3:06 PM To: Ken Domer; Lupe Estrella; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Council Study Session Christmas Morning 81 Holiday Events Hello, I am hoping to attend the City Council Study Session tonight if I am able to leave work in time. In case I do not make it in time to attend, I wanted to share my thoughts on the Christmas morning Santa tradition. I think it goes without saying, this event is a very special tradition for generations of families in La Verne. I understand the logistics of orchestrating the Santa drive through every neighborhood in La Verne on Christmas morning is much more difﬁcult and challenging than it was over 100 years ago. I also respect the need for people to spend time with their families on the holidays. However, I am hoping we explore every avenue to make sure this much-loved event continues. The Christmas morning event and La Verne 4th of July is what sets La Verne apart from all other local Cities. People are drawn to La Verne for the safe, family friendly and community atmosphere these events help to create. While recent circumstances are negatively impacting La Verne and threatening to change our city forever (most notably 740 Foothill) now is the time to hold tight to the positive things that bring our community together and make it a wonderful place to live. I do have a couple of ideas. What if we got rid of the goody bags? That way less volunteers would be needed, and the process would move quicker through the neighborhoods. Also, what if the route was split between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, alternating years. That way people coming to spend Christmas in La Verne would still be able to enjoy the tradition. I don't think weeknights before Christmas would get much attention and most people would probably miss it. Can the City allocate more in the budget for this important event? I know it is past budget time, but was this discussed? Anyway, I don't envy you having to discuss changing or stopping an over 100-year tradition. Please take it under great consideration. Thank you very much for everything you do for the residents of La Verne. We appreciate you! Sincerely, Paige Rode 849 Dogwood Drive This email has been scanned for spam and viruses by Proofpoint Essentials. Click here to report this email as spam.

Lupe Estrella
From: Sonya Whatley < srwhatley@yahoo. com>
Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 4:52 PM
To: Lupe Estrella
Subject: Pleaseread at CCStudy Session8/7/23
Mr . Mayor and Members of the City Council ,
After reading the staff report for the proposed changes to the Christmas morning program, I hope I ' m wrong but feel tonight will be the end of Christmas morning as residents have known it in La verne for over a century . This saddens me as I ' m sure it will many other residents .

I think the suggested alternative will not be much better than canceling it altogether . I hope you ' ll continue the tradition this year and make a bigger push for communityvolunteers to help reduce the strain on staff. If that ' s unsuccessful , then discuss alternatives for next year .

I ' m sure you won ' t want to be remembered as the City Council that killed the 100+ year old beloved Christmas morning tradition .

Sincerely,
Sonya whatley
ThisemailhasbeenscannedforspamandvirusesbyProofpointEssentials. Clickhereto reportthisemailasspam. 1 LuE Estrella From: Sonya Whatley <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 4:52 PM To: Lupe Estrella Subject: Please read at CC Study Session 8/7/23 Mr. Mayor and Members of the City Council, After reading the staff report for the proposed changes to the Christmas morning program, I hope I'm wrong but feel tonight Will be the end of Christmas morning as residents have known it in La Verne for over a century. This sa dens me as I'm sure it will many other residents. I think the suggested alternative will not be much better than canceling it altogether. I hope you'll continue the tradition this year and make a bigger push for community volunteers to help reduce the strain on sta f. If that's unsuccessful, then discuss alternatives for next year. I'm sure you won't want to be remembered as the City Council that killed the 100+ year old beloved Christmas morning tradition. Sincerely, Sonya whatley This email has been scanned for spam and viruses by Proofpoint Essentials. Click here to report this email as spam.

MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING

OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

LA VERNE
Monday, August 7, 2023
A regularmeetingoftheLaVerneCityCouncilwascalledto orderbyMayorHepburnat7:07p.m.

Beforethestartofthemeeting, MayorHepburnwelcomedtheaudiencetotheCouncilMeetinginwhichCity businessis conducted. HeremindedeveryonethatpertheCity's Rulesfor Decorum, all speakers, membersof the audience, and Council Members are to conduct themselves with decorum and to not engage in conduct that interruptstheorderlyconductofthe meeting.

Council Members present: Mayor Tim Hepburn
Mayor Pro Tem Wendy L. Lau
Council Member Rick Crosby
Council Member Steven Frank Johnson

Absent: Council Member Meshal " Kash" Kashifalghita
Advisory personnel present: City Manager Ken Domer
Assistant City Manager JR Ranells
City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow
Deputy City Clerk Debra Fritz
Finance Director Christy Lopez
Community Development Director Eric Scherer
Public Works Director Meg McWade
Acting Police Chief Sam Gonzalez
Fire Chief Chris Nigg
Community Services Director Yvonne Duran
Pledge of Allegiance led by Karl Bauer, Army Sergeant ( E- 5). Before leading the Pledge of Allegiance, Sgt. Bauer calledfor a momentof silencein memoryof the two Cal Fire employeesand their pilotkilled in a collisionbetween two helicoptersin firefightingeffortsovera brushfire in Cabazon, beforeleadingthe Pledgeof Allegiance.

Introductions of Newly Hired Fire Chief Nigg introduced the newly hired and promoted Fire Personnel as and Promoted Fire Personnel follows:

Firefighter/ Paramedic Dakota Baker
Community Risk Reduction Specialist Lonnie Shipman
Fire Marshal Fred St. Ange
Mayor Hepburn, on behalf of the City Council, congratulated and welcomed them to the City of La Verne.

ANNOUNCEMENTS OF George May, La Verne LibraryManger reportedon the library's upcoming UPCOMING COMMUNITY events.

EVENTS
Anna Miller, La Verne resident, spoke on Project One Cause a nonprofit organization providing financial aid and educational support for families with children affected by nonfatal drowning and hypoxic/ anoxic brain injuries.

MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA VERNE Monday, August 7, 2023 A regular meeting of the La Verne City Council was called to order by Mayor Hepburn at 7:07 pm. Before the start of the meeting, Mayor Hepburn welcomed the audience to the Council Meeting in which City business is conducted. He reminded everyone that per the City's Rules for Decorum, all speakers, members of the audience, and Council Members are to conduct themselves with decorum and to not engage in conduct that interrupts the orderly conduct of the meeting. Council Members present: Mayor Tim Hepburn Mayor Pro Tem Wendy L. Lau Council Member Rick Crosby Council Member Steven Frank Johnson Absent: Council Member Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita Advisory personnel present: City Manager Ken Domer Assistant City Manager JR Ranells City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow Deputy City Clerk Debra Fritz Finance Director Christy Lopez Community Development Director Eric Scherer Public Works Director Meg McWade Acting Police Chief Sam Gonzalez Fire Chief Chris Nigg Community Services Director Yvonne Duran Pledge of Allegiance led by Karl Bauer, Army Sergeant (E-5). Before leading the Pledge of Allegiance, Sgt. Bauer called for a moment of silence in memory of the two Cal Fire employees and their pilot killed in a collision between two helicopters in ﬁreﬁghting efforts over a brush ﬁre in Cabazon, before leading the Pledge of Allegiance.

Introductions of Newly Hired Fire Chief Nigg introduced the newly hired and promoted Fire Personnel as and Promoted Fire Personnel follows: Fireﬁghter/Paramedic Dakota Baker Community Risk Reduction Specialist Lonnie Shipman Fire Marshal Fred St. Ange Mayor Hepburn, on behalf of the City Council, congratulated and welcomed them to the City of La Verne. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF George May, La Verne Library Manger reported on the library's upcoming UPCOMING COMMUNITY events. EVENTS Anna Miller, La Verne resident, spoke on Project One Cause a nonproﬁt organization providing ﬁnancial aid and educational support for families with children affected by nonfatal drowning and hypoxic/anoxic brain injuries.

City Council Minutes, Monday, August 7, 2023, Page2.

Danita Beauchamp, La Verne resident, reportedon the upcoming LosAngeles Probation Oversite Committee meeting.

CONSENT CALENDAR It was movedby Crosby, secondedby Lau, and unanimouslycarried by a voteof 4- 0 ( Kashifalghita absent), except for Consent Calendar item " City Council Minutes" were pulled for further discussion.

Pulled from Consent Calendar Richard Bowen, La Verne resident, stated he asked for the regular meeting City Council Minutes minutes of June 17, 2023, be pulled. He asked that the minutes be edited to includethe statement made by Kathy Kalousekregardingthe appointmentof Council Member Lau to Mayor Pro Tem.

City Manager Domer responded that the minutes are not prepared verbatim, and they are only action minutes.

It was moved by Crosby, seconded by Lau, and carried by a vote of 4-0 Kashifalghita absent) to approve the City Council minutes in item # 1: the Joint LaVerne/SanDimasSpecialmeetingofJuly6, 2023, theregularCouncilmeeting of July 17, 2023, and SpecialCouncilmeetingof July 26, 2023.

DEMANDS
Fiscal Year 2022- 23 — In the amount of$ 1,604,655.84 dated July 6, 2023, and in the amountof$ 286,832.82 dated July 13, 2023; and
Fiscal Year 2023- 24— In the amount of$ 3,376,192.17 dated July 13, 2023, and in the amount of$ 1,258,849.17 dated July 6, 2023.

Recommendation: That the City Councillapprovethe Registerof Audited Demands as listed. — Approved.

At7:39p.m., theCityCouncilrecessedtomeetastheLaVerneFinancingAuthorityandat7:46p.m., reconvened to the regular City Council meeting.

APPOINTMENT TO THE City Manager Ken Domer addressed Council regarding the appoint of an ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION individual to the Active Transportation Committee, due to an un- expected COMMITTEE vacancy. The applicants from the prior eligible list were contacted and three are still interested. He stated that this will fill one ( 1) vacancy on the Active Transportation Committee ( ATC). The appointed individual will serve until on June 30, 2025.

It was moved by Johnson and seconded by Hepburn to appoint D'Amico.

Mayor Hepburn called for public comment on this matter.

Danita Beachamp, La Verne resident, asked what the City's procedures are for committee/ commission appointments.

After discussion by City Council, it was moved by Hepburn, seconded by Crosby, and carried by a vote of 4-0 ( Kashifalghita absent) to continue the Appointment to the Active Transportation Committee to the September 5, 2023, City Council meeting.

City Council Minutes, Monday, August 7, 2023, Page 2.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Pulled from Consent Calendar City Council Minutes

REGISTER OF AUDITED DEMANDS
Danita Beauchamp, La Verne resident, reported on the upcoming Los Angeles Probation Oversite Committee meeting. it was moved by Crosby, seconded by Lau, and unanimously carried by a vote of 4-0 (Kashifalghita absent), except for Consent Calendar item “City Council Minutes" were pulled for further discussion. Richard Bowen, La Verne resident. stated he asked for the regular meeting minutes of June 17, 2023, be pulled. He asked that the minutes be edited to include the statement made by Kathy Kalousek regarding the appointment of Council Member Lau to Mayor Pro Tem. City Manager Domer responded that the minutes are not prepared verbatim, and they are only action minutes. It was moved by Crosby, seconded by Lau, and carried by a vote of 4-0 (Kashifalghita absent) to approve the City Council minutes in item #1: the Joint La Veme/San Dimas Special meeting of July 6, 2023. the regular Council meeting of July 17, 2023, and Special Council meeting of July 26, 2023. Register of Audited Demands for the following: Fiscal Year 2022-23 — In the amount of $1,604,655.84 dated July 6, 2023, and in the amount of $286,832.82 dated July 13, 2023; and Fiscal Year 2023-24 - In the amount of $3,376,192.17 dated July 13, 2023, and in the amount of $1,258,849.17 dated July 6, 2023. Recommendation: That the City Councill approve the Register of Audited Demands as listed. - Approved.

At 7:39 pm, the City Council recessed to meet as the La Verne Financing Authority and at 7:48 pm, reconvened to the regular City Council meeting. APPOINTMENT TO THE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE City Manager Ken Domer addressed Council regarding the appoint of an individual to the Active Transportation Committee, due to an un-expected vacancy. The applicants from the prior eligible list were contacted and three are still interested. He stated that this will ﬁll one (1) vacancy on the Active Transportation Committee (ATC). The appointed individual will serve until on June 30, 2025. It was moved by Johnson and seconded by Hepburn to appoint D'Amico. Mayor Hepburn called for public comment on this matter. Danita Beachamp, La Verne resident, asked what the City’s procedures are for committee/commission appointments. After discussion by City Council, it was moved by Hepburn, seconded by Crosby, and carried by a vote of 4-0 (Kashifalghita absent) to continue the Appointment to the Active Transportation Committee to the September 5, 2023, City Council meeting.

City Council Minutes, Monday, August 7, 2023, Page 3.

AUTHORIZATION TO OFFER City Manager Ken Darner reported on the request for authorization to offer MONETARY REWARD IN monetary reward in incidents of violent crime for information leading to the arrest INCIDENTS OF VIOLENT and conviction. He stated that on July 1, 2023, during mid-day, Rodeo Jewelers CRIME FOR INFORMATION was the scene of a violent robbery in which the suspects drove their vehicle into LEADING TO ARREST AND the store, assaulted an employee, and conducted a smash and grab robbery. This CONVICTION request seeks approval to offer a reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspects as well as authorizing the City Manager, upon recommendation of the Chief of Police, to offer a similar reward for future violent crimes.

ActingChiefSamGonzalezstatedthisis stillanactiveinvestigation, andhopefully this rewardwill promptsomeoneto say somethingto help with the investigation.

Numerouspolicedepartmentsbothat the federaland locallevelare currently working on this matter.

Mayor Hepburn called for public comment on this matter.

Beloware only partial public comments, pleasevisit the City's website to view the archived Council meeting.)
The following La Verne residents: Richard Bowen, Danita Beauchamp, Joe Gabaldon, Lilii Huang and Thomas Allison, spoke in support of this reward program, and the County' s matching reward. Store owner Koko Vartanian voiced his frustration.

Acting Chief Gonzalez shared the following: anyone who has information regardingthe RodeorobberycancontactLaVernePoliceDepartmentbyemailat detectives( a lvpd. org, or by calling 909- 457- 6541. This phone number was set up specificallyfor reportinginformationonthe RodeoJewelersrobbery. Information canalsobe reportedto CrimeStoppersat 1-800-222-8477or byusingtheCrime Stoppers application, LA Crime Stoppers.

AfterCityCouncildiscussion, it wasmovedbyCrosby, secondedbyJohnson, and carried by a vote of 4- 0 ( Kashifalghita absent) to authorize a $ 10, 000 reward for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspects involved in the Rodeo Jewelers robbery and authorize the City Manager, upon recommendation of the Chief of Police, to offer similar rewards for future violent crimes.

PUBLIC COMMENT This was the time set aside for anyonewishingto addressthe City Councilon items not listed in any other place on the agenda. ( Below are only partial public comments, please visit the City' s website to view the archived Council meeting.)
Bernard, Fullerton resident, praised City Manager Ken Darner and Public Works Director Meg McWade who worked for the City of Fullerton and stated La Verne was very fortunate to have them.

Danita Beauchamp, La Verne resident, stated that a mike should be used when conducting the pledge of Allegiance. She thanked City staff for Christmas Morning event and suggested ways the City can notify residents of the event.

Gary Hunter, La Verne resident, spoke about an incident at Emerald Park.

ActingPoliceChiefGonzalesstatedthe incidentin EmeraldParkis anongoing investigation.

City Council Minutes, Monday, August 7, 2023, Page 3. I AUTHORIZATION TO OFFER MONETARY REWARD IN INCIDENTS OF VIOLENT CRIME FOR INFORMATION . LEADING TO ARREST AND I CONVICTION

PUBLIC COMMENT
City Manager Ken Domer reported on the request for authorization to offer monetary reward in incidents of violent crime for information leading to the arrest and conviction. He stated that on July 1, 2023, during mid-day, Rodeo Jewelers was the scene of a violent robbery in which the SUSpects drove their vehicle into the store, assaulted an employee, and conducted a smash and grab robbery. This request seeks approval to offer a reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspects as well as authorizing the City Manager, upon recommendation of the Chief of Police, to offer a similar reward for future violent crimes. Acting Chief Sam Gonzalez stated this is still an active investigation, and hopefully this reward will prompt someone to say something to help with the investigation. Numerous police departments both at the federal and local level are currently working on this matter. Mayor Hepburn called for public comment on this matter. Below are only partial public comments, please visit the City's website to view the archived Council meeting.) The following La Verne residents: Richard Bowen, Danita Beauchamp, Joe Gabaldon, Lilii Huang and Thomas Allison, spoke in support of this reward program, and the County's matching reward. Store owner Koko Vartanian voiced his frustration. Acting Chief Gonzalez shared the following: anyone who has information regarding the Rodeo robbery can contact La Verne Police Department by email at [email protected], or by calling 909-457-6541. This phone number was set up speciﬁcally for reporting information on the Rodeo Jewelers robbery. Information can also be reported to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by using the Crime Stoppers application, LA Crime Stoppers. After City Council discussion, it was moved by Crosby, seconded by Johnson, and carried by a vote of 4-0 (Kashifalghita absent) to authorize a $10,000 reward for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspects involved in the Rodeo Jewelers robbery and authorize the City Manager, upon recommendation of the Chief of Police, to offer similar rewards for future violent crimes. This was the time set aside for anyone wishing to address the City Council on items not listed in any other place on the agenda. (Below are only partial public comments, please visit the City’s website to view the archived Council meeting.) Bernard , Fullerton resident, praised City Manager Ken Domer and Public Works Director Meg McWade who worked for the City of Fullerton and stated La Verne was very fortunate to have them. Danita Beauchamp, La Verne resident, stated that a mike should be used when conducting the pledge of Allegiance. She thanked City staff for Christmas Morning event and suggested ways the City can notify residents of the event. Gary Hunter, La Verne resident, spoke about an incident at Emerald Park. Acting Police Chief Gonzales stated the incident in Emerald Park is an ongoing investigation.

City Council Minutes, Monday, August 7, 2023, Page 4.

Lilly Haung, La Verne resident, urged the City Council not to end the Christmas Morning Event tradition.

Joe Gabaldon, La Verne resident, spoke about the Fire Department' s sacrifices and personal risks, the American flag not in video, and the process for selection of Mayor and Committees.

Pam Berry, La Verne resident, spoke about interactions with homeless individuals around the City.

CityManagerDomerrespondedregardinghavinga studysessionon the matter.

He recentlylet a groupof severallocalCities, Tri-City MentalHealthAuthority, San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments and Senator's Rubio's Office to the OC Hope Center a regional collaboration of Cities which work together to provide resources to the homeless.

CommunityServicesDirectorDuranandActingPoliceChiefGonzalezalso reportedon the servicesand programsprovidedby the City and the City's efforts to helpthe homelessand keepthe communitysafe. You can reportconcernsat LEAPcityoflaverne. org, also on City website under Unhoused, and to reportan encampment go to 24 Hour City Hall.

COUNCIL COMMENTS Belowareonly partialCouncilcomments, pleasevisit the City's websiteto view the archived Council meeting.

CouncilMemberCrosbyreportedontheWaterQualityReport, LaVernePolice NationalNightOut, theSpecialNeedsDanceandbacktoschoolonMonday, August 21, 2023.

CouncilMemberJohnsonreportedattendingthe Joint PowersInsurance AuthoritymeetingandwishedMrs. Hepburna happyretirement.

MayorProTemLauthankedthe LaVernePoliceDepartmentstaffandCitystaff for their awesomejob they did holding "National Night Out" event. She reported onCulturalAwarenessandSocialInclusionmeeting, Tri-CityMentalHealth Authority and Eagle Scout Honor Court.

MayorHepburnalsothankedthe LaVernePoliceDepartmentandCitystafffor the great job holding " National Night Out" event. He thanked the audience for attending Council meeting.

At 8: 53 the City Council CityAttorneyKimberlyHall Barlowstatedtherewill be nothingto reportafter recessed to meet in closed closed session.
session for the following:

The City Council met in Closed Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54957. 6 for the following:

COUNCIL COMMENTS At
8:53 the City Council recessed to meet in closed session for the following:

City Council Minutes, Monday, August 7, 2023, Page 4.

Lilly Haung, La Verne resident, urged the City Council not to end the Christmas Morning Event tradition. Joe Gabaldon, La Verne resident, spoke about the Fire Department's sacriﬁces and personal risks, the American flag not in video, and the process for selection of Mayor and Committees. Pam Berry, La Verne resident, spoke about interactions with homeless individuals around the City. City Manager Domer responded regarding having a study session on the matter. He recently let a group of several local Cities, Tri-City Mental Health Authority, San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments and Senator's Rubio's Ofﬁce to the 0C Hope Center a regional collaboration of Cities which work together to provide resources to the homeless. Community Services Director Duran and Acting Police Chief Gonzalez also reported on the services and programs provided by the City and the City's efforts to help the homeless and keep the community safe. You can report concerns at LEAPQCItygﬂaverneorg, also on City website under Unhoused, and to report an encampment go to 24 Hour City Hall.

Below are only partial Council comments, please visit the City’s website to view the archived Council meeting. Council Member Crosby reported on the Water Quality Report, La Verne Police National Night Out, the Special Needs Dance and back to school on Monday, August 21, 2023. Council Member Johnson reported attending the Joint Powers Insurance Authority meeting and wished Mrs. Hepburn a happy retirement. Mayor Pro Tem Lau thanked the La Verne Police Department staff and City staff for their awesome job they did holding “National Night Out" event. She reported on Cultural Awareness and Social Inclusion meeting, Tri-City Mental Health Authority and Eagle Scout Honor Court. Mayor Hepburn also thanked the La Verne Police Department and City staff for the great job holding “National Night Out' event. He thanked the audience for attending Council meeting.

City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow stated there will be nothing to report after closed session.

The City Council met in Closed Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 for the following:

City Council Minutes, Monday, August 7, 2023, Page 5.

Conference with Labor Negotiators
Negotiators: City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and City Attorney
Employee Organization( s): La Verne City Employees Association, and the La Verne Police Officers' Association
Conference with Legal — Counsel— Existing Litigation
Pursuantto GovernmentCode Section54956.9, City Council met in Closed Session re: Grapentinvs. the City LaVerne, Case Number:

ADJ12536665, ADJ12545188, ADJ14493960.

Adjournment at 9:16 p.m.

Respectfully' submitted,
n
Debra Fritz
Deputy City Clerk
City Council Minutes, Monday. August 7. 2023. Page 5. Adjournment at 9:16 pm. Respectfully submitted. M Debra Fritz Deputy City Clerk Confereng m gar Nggotlatogg Negotiators: City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and City Attorney Employee Organization(s): La Verne City Employees Association. and the La Verne Police Ofﬁcers' Association aference with nal - Counsel - Existlng tlgatlon Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9. City Council met in Closed Session re: Grapentin vs. the City La Verne, Case Number. ADJ12536665, ADJ12545188, ADJ14493960.

OnAugust7, 2023,at the regular CouncilMeetingthe following Fire Departmentpersonnelwere introduced by Fire ChiefChrisNigg:

Lonnie Shipman
Lonniehasworkedin publicservicefor alargepart ofhiscareer,mostnotablyin communityservices with cities suchasPalmdale,Vacaville, RanchoCucamonga,andUpland. Mostrecently,heworked in the private sector as a California licensed Residential Appraiser for the last 4 years. Lonnie holds a master' s degree in public administration and a bachelor' s degree in urban studies & Planning. He is passionate about the opportunity to serve La Verne through Risk Reduction efforts that contribute to the life- safety measures associated with fire inspections and education. Lonnie is married to his wife, Karla, and they have twin boys who just turned 17! Fred St. Ange ( pronounced Saint Anj)
Fredbeganhis careerasaPaid-CallFirefighterwith SanBernardinoCountyFireDepartmentin 1997.

Fred has 18 years of experienceworking in local municipalities, including the Ontario Fire DepartmentasaSr.Fire SafetySpecialistandCity of Uplandasthe DeputyFire Marshal.Hisexpertise will ensure the highest level of public safety for our community before emergencieshappen, while also providing the safest possible environment for our Firefighters when the emergencies do occur.

On August 7, 2023, at the regular Council Meeting the following Fire Department personnel were introduced by Fire Chief Chris Nigg:

Dakota Baker Lonnie Shipman Fred St. Ange
Dakota Baker Probationary Firefighter Paramedic Dakota Baker is 27 years old and lives in the city of Rancho Cucamonga. He started his EMS career with CARE ambulance where he found his passion for helping others. He graduated from the Crafton Hills Fire Academy in December of 2021 where he learned valuable skills and roles that would set him up for success in the fire service. After his academy, he enrolled himself in Crafton’s paramedic program where he learned skills that would allow him to service our community to a higher level of care. While going to through paramedic school, he was fortunate enough to be a part of the brand-new A0 program here at La Verne Fire Department. This is where he not only fell in love with his career but with the city itself. In April of this year, he was offered a full-time position as a Firefighter/ Paramedic, and he is excited to see what this position and his future holds. He is currently staffed at Fire Station #3 with Engineer Vladimir Trubin and Captain Frank Hernandez who are guiding him on how to not only be a good Firefighter/Paramedic but a great person as well. Some of his hobbies are golfing, working out, and spending time with friends and family. Lonnie Shipman Lonnie has worked in public service for a large part of his career, most notably in community services with cities such as Palmdale, Vacaville, Rancho Cucamonga, and Upland. Most recently, he worked in the private sector as a California licensed Residential Appraiser for the last 4 years. Lonnie holds a master's degree in public administration and a bachelor's degree in urban studies & Planning. He is passionate about the opportunity to serve La Verne through Risk Reduction efforts that contribute to the life-safety measures associated with fire inspections and education. Lonnie is married to his wife, Karla, and they have twin boys who just turned 17! Fred St. Ange (pronounced Saint Anj) Fred began his career as a Paid-Call Fireﬁghter with San Bernardino County Fire Department in 1997. Fred has 18 years of experience working in local municipalities, including the Ontario Fire Department as a Sr. Fire Safety Specialist and City of Upland as the Deputy Fire Marshal. His expertise will ensure the highest level of public safety for our community before emergencies happen, while also providing the safest possible environment for our Firefighters when the emergencies do occur.

La Verne City CouncilAugust 7, 2023

La Verne City Council
August 7, 2023