LAVERNE MINUTES OF A STUDY SESSION AND REGULAR MEETING
OF THE LA VERNE CITY COUNCIL
Monday, April 15, 2024
19 ACTION MINUTES
"see items in italics"
STUDY SESSION - 5:30 p.m. - Meeting called to order at 5:32 p.m.
ROLL CALL Council Member Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita, Council Member Rick Crosby, Council Member Wendy Lau, Mayor Pro Tem Steven F. Johnson and Mayor Tim Hepburn.
Council Members present: Crosby, Lau, Kashifalghita and Johnson.
Absent: Hepburn
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Ken Domer, Assistant City Manager JR Ranells and Assistant City Attorney Scott Porter and City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow attended virtually via Zoom.
STUDY SESSION AGENDA
The City Council met in a Study Session for the following:
1. Los Angeles County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs - The Military Veterans Affairs Department will give an overview of the various services available for Veterans and their families.
City Manager Domer called forward the representative.
Haden Velasquer from the Department of Military & Veterans Affairs gave a PowerPoint presentation covering a wide variety of services provided to veterans and their families.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson thanked Mr. Velasquez for his service.
Council Member Crosby asked for clarification on the times the representatives are available in La Verne, and if an appointment is required.
Mondays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., walk-ins are allowed, and appointments can be made. (NOTE: per the City Website these hours should be 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Council Member Kashifalghita thanked Mr. Velasquez for his military service and staff member Director Duran for coordinating this presentation.
Suei Meres Canesed Mire Vers resto mage out so to vase fired Yeteranand services. She also asked Haden to reach out to an organization called ACP.
2. Metro Double Track Project - Metro will present information on its planned double-track project from Lone Hill Avenue to White Avenue. The project includes a reconfiguration of San Dimas Canyon at Arrow Highway to provide for railroad safety. The Metro project is currently in its design phase. While the goal is to complete the project by 2028, no funding for construction has been identified to date. As a result, construction is not currently scheduled
City Manager Domer called the representative from Metro forward.
Vahid Hadas, Director of Program Management, Regional Rail presented the updated design modification for the Lone Hill to White Double Track Project. Charles Tang and Josh Francis from LA Metro were both in attendance also.
Please refer to the city website at www.citvoflaverne.orgfor the complete project presentation and the council comments.
Public comments were received from: Matt Lyons
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson recessed the study session.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - 6:30 p.m. - The Regular Meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson read the rules of decorum.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE by Colin White, US Marine Corp, Sergeant Council Member Kashifalghita, on behalf of the City Council, presented Colin White with a Pride of La Verne Certificate of Recognition thanking him for his service to our country.
City Manager Domer conducted roll call.
ROLL CALL
Council Member Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita, Council Member Rick Crosby, Council Member Wendy Lau, Mayor Pro Tem Steven F. Johnson, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.
Council Members present: Crosby, Lau, Kashifalghita and Johnson.
Absent: Hepburn
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Ken Domer, Assistant City Manager JR Ranells, and Assistant City Attorney Scott Porter and City Attorney Kimberlv Hall Barlow attended virtually via Zoom
Assistant City Attorney Scott Porter advised Council of the need to add an item to the agenda. This closed session item requires immediate action and the city was made aware after the agenda was posted.
Pursuant to GC Code 54956.9 (a) 1 case, Sullivan vs. City of La Verne, Case #adj18084711.
Motion from Crosby and second from Lau, approved 4-0 with Hepburn absent.
3. PRESENTATIONS - There are three presentations, the first is the AYSO Boy's Soccer Team.
La Verne/San Dimas AYSO Region 112 12U Blue Lightning Soccer team finished their regular season with a 13-0 record, scoring 54 goals and only allowing 4. The team advanced and won the regionals with a 3-0 record, then advanced to the sectionals where they finished with a 3-2 record. With over 320 teams competing in the sectionals, the team was ranked #3 out of all the teams that participated. The team was coached by Anthony Coach Pineda came forward and introduced the team. The team was called forward one by one and received a Pride of La Verne Certificate and an In-N-Out gift card from the Council.
The second presentation is to the City of La Verne "C" Division Youth Basketball All- Stars.
The team was formed from players participating in the City's Winter Youth Basketball League. The team participated in the SCMAF-SGV Basketball Tournament hosted by the City of Glendora. The team defeated Temple City in the first round, then defeated the City of Pasadena in the second round, and then moved on to beat the City of Burbank in the semi-finals. In the finals, the team played the City of Walnut and won by the score of 63-21.
The team was coached by Larry Chavez and Wyndee Robin-McKinley.
Coach Chavez and Coach Robin-McKinley came forward and introduced the team. One by one the team members came forward and received a Pride of La Verne Certificate and an In-N-Out gift card from the Council.
Our third and final presentation is to the Outstanding Older American - Edward Padgett.
The Senior Advisory Committee (SAC) has nominated one senior citizen for the Older American Recognition Award. This recognition is part of the Los Angeles County Commission for Older Adults (LACCOA) 59th Annual Older Americans Recognition Day (OARD) Awards Program, which honors a senior citizen from each city in Los Angeles County. The Senior Advisory Committee nominated Edward Padgett as the City's Outstanding Older American as he exemplifies the true spirit of this year's theme 'Powered by Connection'. Mr. Padgett resides in La Verne and has dedicated countless hours of service to the community.
Mr. Padgett came forward and was presented with a certificate naming him the Outstanding Older American.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
(Any person who wishes to make a brief announcement of a future community event that is open to the public may do so at thistime.)
Announcements were received from: John Graham and Dave Little, with Arroyo Land Partners, representing the development team for Lutheran High School. George May, La Verne Librarian on upcoming Library programs. Danita Beauchamp.
Council Comments: Council Member Lau commented on why the Council and a number of
staff members were wearing jeans, in recognition of Denim Day. We are wearing denim today to raise awareness about sexual assault.
Council Member Crosby announced the date of the La Verne Police Officer Association Golf Tournament, May oh as well as the La Verne San Dimas Education Foundation Golf Tournament on Monday, April 22nd.
CONSENT CALENDAR
(All items on the Consent Calendar are routine and will be enacted by one motion unless a member of the City Council or member of the audience requests separate discussion.) It was moved by Crosby, seconded by Kashifalghita, and approved by a vote of 4-0, with Hepburn absent.
4. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES of the regular City Council meeting of April 1, 2024.
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve the minutes. Approved
5. REGISTER OF AUDITED DEMANDS for the following dates and amounts:
$1,719,977.49 dated March 28, 2024
$771,080.82 dated April 3, 2024
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve the Register of Audited Demands.
Approved
6. Approval of Willdan Engineering Professional Services Agreement to Finalize ARPA Funded Housing Rehabilitation Program. The City of La Verne's previous Professional Services Agreement with Willdan Engineering related to the Housing Rehabilitation Grant Program has expired. Staff is proposing to enter into a new agreement with some modifications, including closing out the program by October 2024.
Recommendation: That the City Council approve a new agreement with Willdan Engineering to finalize the ARPA funded Housing Rehabilitation Program and direct Staff to notify persons on the interest list that the program has ceased. Approved
7. Resolution Approving a Class Specification and Salary for Human Resources Specialist.
The City Manager's Office has a need for an updated human resources specific support position. Based on an analysis, a new classification titled Human Resources Specialist is being recommended.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt the attached Resolution titled, "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING A CLASS SPECIFICATION AND SALARY FOR HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST." Approved
8. Purchase of 6 APX All Band Portable Radios from Motorola Solutions. The Fire Department is in need of acquiring six (6) APX 8000H All Band Portable Model 3.5 Radios along with the associated programming at a cost of $80,094.62 from Motorola Solutions. As the exclusive manufacturer of these radios, Motorola Solutions is the sole source provider and the only vendor that can fulfill the operational requirements of the Department.
Recommendation: That the City Council approve the purchase of six (6) APX 8000H AlI Band Portable Model 3.5 Radios in the amount of $80,094.62. MILITARY EQUIPMENT POLICY 709". Approved
9. Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 7; Engineer's Report and Setting Public Hearing for June 17, 2024. An Engineer's Report for Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 7 (La Verne Heights III) has been prepared for City Council preliminary approval to set the levy of assessments for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-25 and set a public hearing for June 17, 2024. There is a proposed 1.3% adjustment to the assessment from $684.00 to $693.26, which is the maximum allowable.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt a Resolution approving the Engineer's Report for Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 7, setting a public hearing for June 17, 2024. Approved
PUBLIC HEARING
10. Public Hearing to Determine Necessity of Utility User's Tax In accordance with the Municipal Code (Sec. 3.10.170), an annual public hearing is required to assess the need for the continuation of the City's Utility User's Tax (UUT). The upcoming Fiscal Year 2024- 25 budget is expected to utilize and depend on the $3,840,000 in estimated UUT revenues, proving the UUT remains necessary.
Recommendation: That the City Council maintain the City's Utility User's Tax at the current voter-approved rates for Fiscal Year 2024-25.
City Manager Domer called forward the staff member who will be reporting on this item.
Jesus Jaime from the Finance Department reported on this item. Jesus gave an overview of the breakdown of the Utility User's Tax and the recommendation that the City Council continue the collection of the Utility User's Tax at the current voter approved rates.
Council Comments: None
Public Comments: Were received from Danita Beauchamp regarding use of the tax funds.
City Manager Domer clarified revenue, which pays for everything from Public Works, Public Safety, and Recreation. There is no designated earmark, it goes into the general fund.
It was moved by Crosby and seconded by Lau and approved 4-0 with Hepburn absent.
11. Fiscal Year 2024-25 Paramedic Service Fee Annual Hearing to Consider a Rate Change Based on the Consumer Price Index. The City's voter approved Paramedic Service Fee requires an annual public hearing to consider a rate change.
Recommendation: That the City Council hold a Public Hearing and, adopt a Resolution titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 PARAMEDIC SERVICE FEE," to adjust the monthly paramedic fee based on CPI from $6.35 to $6.50.
City Manager Domer, called forward the staff member presenting on the Paramedic Service fee.
Isabella Guzman from the Finance Department presented this item. Isabella gave a breakdown of the Paramedic Service Fee increases for the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year, and the recommendation that the monthly rate be adjusted by S0.15 increasing the current
rate from $6.35 to $6.50. The additional revenue generated is estimated to be $48,294 which will be deposited into the Paramedic Service Fund.
Public comments: None
Council comments: Council Member Crosby commented and felt this was a cheap way to make sure our residents are covered.
Council Member Lau concurred with Council Member Crosby and is extremely grateful for living in a city that has this in place.
Council Member Kashifalghita agreed, anything to help our community be safe and provide them with service.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson commented on the fact that insurance companies do not give a discount on premiums within a community that has this type of program in place. It is a great program.
It was moved by Crosby and seconded by Kashifalghita and approved 4-0 with Hepburn absent.
12. Resolution Adopting the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Comprehensive Fee Schedule. The City's Comprehensive Fee Schedule, established by Resolution, is reviewed each year as part of the annual budget process. Adjustments are made to reflect changes in the cost of services in accordance with State and local law. This Resolution provides for adjustments to the 2024-25 Comprehensive Fee Schedule.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt a Resolution titled, "A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION 23-63 RELATIVE TO CERTAIN FEES AND POLICIES FOR SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE CITY OF LA VERNE."
City Manager Domer, called forward the staff member presenting on the Comprehensive Fee Schedule.
Elizabeth "Ellie" Luo from the Finance Department presented this item. Ellie gave a breakdown of the various fees that will be new and or increasing with the exception of the online building permit housing fee, which has been identified as an additional fee and requires the notification to the Building Industry Association of Southern California. This fee will be brought back at the May fth meeting, after the required noticing has been completed. Recommendation to Council is to amend resolution 23-60-63, Fiscal Year 2023-24 Comprehensive Fee Schedule for the upcoming fiscal year.
Council Member Crosby asked for clarification on the fingerprint rolling fee, does that include raising the fee for CCW or is the fingerprinting itself? Cir Maraşer Domer replied, no for the CW it is a different fee that Council set for the Council Member Crosby appreciated the redline version of the fee schedule, as it really shows where the changes were made.
Public comments: None
Motion to approve by Crosby and seconded by Kashifalghita approved by a vote of 4-0, with Hepburn absent.
OTHER MATTERS
13. Citywide Landscape and Lighting District No. 6 Zones 2, 3, 4-l, 4-lI, 5, and 6; Engineer's Report for Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 6, including special zones 2, 3, 4-1, 4-II, 5, and 6, those areas receiving specific benefit in addition to the special citywide benefit, has been prepared for City Council approval. Said approval and Council action on the item resolution will establish the public hearing for June 17, 2024.
Recommendation: That City Council adopt the attached Resolution approving the Engineer's Report and setting the public hearing for Landscape and Lighting District No. 6 Zones 2, 3, 4-l, 4-ll, 5, and 6 for June 17, 2024.
City Manager Domer called forward the staff member reporting on the Citywide Landscape and Lighting District item.
City Engineer Cody Howing reported on this item. Cody reported on why this item was not included under Consent as the other Landscape Districts were. District #6 was pulled out to highlight for Council and the Community present. During the study session last October it was discussed that some of the districts six zones were having some budget challenges. The landscape district contracts were rebid to make sure the numbers were fresh. Staff is proposing or recommending to Council to consider an assessment increase particularly for district #6, zones #4-1, 4-2, the attached Resolution is approving the engineers report and setting the public hearing for the Landscape and Lighting District number six for June 17h of 2024.
Council Member Kashifalghita declared a conflict and recused himself out of an abundance of caution.
Public comment was received from the following: Gary Hunter Council Member Crosby asked is this only open for the residents that live within the districts.
City Engineer Howing explained, yes the Prop 218 process would be a vote of the property owners affected by the proposed increase.
City Manager Domer clarified that if the increase was voted down by the residents the assessment would stay the same. Then the problem is the assessment does not cover the improvements that are going on.
Council Member Lau asked that staff clearly outline what the consequences and the outcomes are of each decision.
Council Member Crosby clarified the LMD's are on the outside where all of La Verne sees the beauty of them. We are not watering peoples lawns.
City Engineer Howing stated several public hearings will be held to inform the public.
It was moved by Crosby and seconded by Lau and approved 3-0 with Hepburn absent and Kashifalghita recused.
PUBLIC COMMENT
(Below are only partial public comments, please visit the City's website to view the archived Council meeting.)
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson called for public comments:
The following attendees provided comments to the Council: Gary Hunter, Danita Beauchamp.
COUNCIL COMMENTS AND CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson called for Council comments:
Council Member Crosby announced National Communication Officers week, so celebrate our dispatchers. Last week he went to the BUSD Board meeting with fellow Council Member Kashifalghita in recognition of Ramona Middle School being named a California Distinguished School. Community presentations will be held at Lutheran High School.
Council Member Lau attended the Cool Cruise event along with Mayor Pro Tem Johnson. The LA County Fair is coming up, she did some promos for the Fair with the Fire Department. There is a Tri-City meeting this week at 5:00 p.m.
Council Member Kashifalghita is looking forward to the Fair on May 3-27. The Wine Walk is also coming up next Saturday, April 27h, tickets can be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce or downtown next Saturday.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson is using his father's gavel on the dais today, it was presented to his father, Frank Raymond Johnson on April 20, 1982, for 20 years of exemplary service.
Meeting was adjourned to Closed Session. There will not be a report out after the closed session.
CLOSED SESSION
1. Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(b): (One case)
2. California Pistol and Rifle Association, Inc., et al. v Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, et al., United States District Court for the Central District of California Case No. 2:23-cv-10169-SPG-ADSx pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9: (One case)
3.Pursuant to GC Code 54956.9 (a) 1 case, Sullivan vs. City of La Verne, Case #ADJ18084711. (Item added by vote of City Council)
The meeting was adjourned at 8:33 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
shaken Fig
Debra Fritz
Deputy City Clerk