LA VERNE MINUTES OF A CLOSED SESSION AND REGULAR MEETING
OF THE LA VERNE CITY COUNCIL
Monday, May 20, 2024
ACTION MINUTES
"see items in italics"
CLOSED SESSION - 5:30 p.m. - Meeting called to order at 5:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL Council Member Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita, Council Member Rick Crosby, Council Member Wendy Lau, Mayor Pro Tem Steve F. Johnson, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.
Council Members present: Crosby, Lau, Kashifalghita, Johnson and Hepburn.
Absent: None
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Ken Domer, City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow, Sr.
Management Analyst Erin Beilstein.
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA
The City Council met in a Closed Session for the following:
Closed Session Existing litigation pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(d)(2 cases): City of Whittier, et al. vs. Los Angeles Superior Court, et al., Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 23STCP03579.
Victor Asemota, et al. v. City of Claremont, et al., Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 24STCV08598.
Conference with Labor Negotiators, pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6:
Negotiators: City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and City Attorney. Employee Organization(s): La Verne City Employees Association, La Verne Firefighters Association, La Verne Police Middle Management Association, La Verne Police Officers' Association; and all Unrepresented Employees.
Mayor Hepburn recessed into the closed session.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - 6:30 p.m. - The Regular Meeting was called to order at 6:33 p.m.
Mayor Hepburn read the rules of decorum.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE by Boy Scout First Class Dominic Trejo, Troop #411 Council Member Kashifalghita, on behalf of the City Council, presented Dominic Trejo with a Pride of La Verne Certificate of Recognition.
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.
City Manager Domer conducted roll call.
Council Members present: Crosby, Lau, Kashifalghita, Johnson and Hepburn.
Absent: None
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Ken Domer, City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow, and Sr. Management Analyst Erin Beilstein.
PRESENTATIONS - Ramona Middle School, CIF Swim Team Champs, SCE Grant Award- BUSD Jenny Zhang, Proclamation-Public Works Week, Proclamation-Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
Ramona Middle School Distinguished School for Academic Excellence - Ramona Middle School has been honored as a 2024 Distinguished School by the California Department of Education, celebrating its exceptional academic performance and efforts to foster a supportive and welcoming learning environment. Ramona Middle School achieved remarkable academic growth on state assessments in 2023, earning a 10.5-point increase from its 2022 indicators in English language arts (ELA) and a 9.1-point increase in math, placing above the fifteenth percentile of all middle/intermediate schools in the state for both subjects. This evening, we will honor administrators and teachers from Ramona Middle School along with representatives from the Bonita Unified School District.
Mayor Hepburn called forward: Superintendent Matt Wien, and the Teachers, administrators and BUSD representatives present, who were then introduced by Superintendent Wien.
Mayor Hepburn presented the group with a Pride of La Verne certificate.
The second presentation is to the Bonita High School Boys' Swim and Dive 2024 Team The Bonita High School Boys Swim and Dive team finished the season having qualified 6 swimmers and 2 Divers for CIF. Both Divers, Logan Atkinson and Mavryck Mathes placed first and second at CIF Finals. Four swimmers (Max Distaso, Jake Carlson, Trevor Ngo, Jackson Dincin) qualified for individual events at the CIF Southern Section D3 Prelims along with qualifying in all 3 Relays. Three Swimmers made it back to the Finals for their individual events (Jake Carlson, Max Distaso, Trevor Ngo) and 1 swimmer (Jackson Dincin) made it back as an alternate. All 3 relays also made it back to finals. With the accumulative points scored at Finals for both swim and dive, the Boy's Program won its first CIF Swim and Dive Title in school history. During the Prelims and Finals sessions the boys team also broke 2 individual school records (Max Distaso 50 Free & Trevor Ngo 100 Butterfly) and all 3 Relay school records. The team was coached by Dillon Unsoeld and assisted by Cody Lehotsky and Gage Unsoeld.
Max Distaso Trevor Ngo Jake Carlson Jackson Dincin
Dylan Vegas Logan Atkinson Mavryck Mathis Parker Montgomery Mayor Hepburn called forward Coach Unsoeld, who then called the team members forward individually to be congratulated by Council, receive a Pride of La Verne certificate, and a gift card.
The third presentation is the Southern California Edison Scholars Award.
Every year, Southern California Edison provides 30 scholarship opportunities to students pursuing higher education in STEM-related fields. Bonita High School senior Junze "Jenny" Zhang becomes the second-ever student from Bonita High School to receive this prestigious award. Jenny will be attending Cal Tech to study aerospace engineering.
Mayor Hepburn called forward Sal Ramirez, Government Relations Manager for Southern California Edison, as well as Junze "Jenny" Zhang, who was presented with a ceremonial check in the amount of $50,000. City Council also presented Ms. Zhang with a Pride of La Verne certificate and a gift card.
The fourth presentation is the Public Works Week Proclamation.
The third week of May is traditionally designated as Public Works Week, honoring the value and necessity of the Public Works Department. This year's theme is "Advancing Quality of Life for All", illustrating how public works professionals contribute to and enhance the quality of life in all the communities they proudly serve, including La Verne.
Mayor Hepburn called forward Public Works Director Meg McWade and members of the Public Works team: Acting Maintenance Manager Colin Purdy, Sr. Management Analyst Kristie Sanchez and Sr. Management Analyst Lisa O'Brien to receive the Public Works Week Proclamation.
The final presentation is the Asian American Pacific Islander Proclamation.
Every May, we honor the role that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders play in developing this nation and the benefits that they add to the La Verne Community. The proclamation will be presented by Council Member Lau to representatives from the University of La Verne.
Council Member Lau called forward the following University of La Verne representatives to receive the Asian American Pacific Islander Proclamation: Assistant Professor of Rhetoric & Communication Studies lan Lising, Associate Professor of Mathematics Gail Tang, Interim Co-Dean for the Library and Learning Commons Amy Jiang, Broadcasting Operations Manager Shane Rodrigues, Director of Residence Life & Student Conduct Eugene Shang, Coordinator of Residence Life Jason Souriolle, Associate Dean of Student Engagement and Belonging Adam Wong, Professor of Kinesiology Paul Alvarez, Biology Professor Jerome Garcia, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Roy Kwon.
University of La Verne Associate Vice President and Chief Government Relations Officer, Zuhey Espinoza acknowledged the significant Asian American Pacific Islander faculty and staff for their dedication and commitment to enrich the academic environment.
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:
Sean Wilkins, La Verne Firefighter, on the Fire Explorer Program.
Council Member Crosby on the Bonita Pop Show, and the La Verne Historical Society Cemetery Walk on June 9th
Council Member Lau on the Baccalaureate at the Church of the Brethren on Friday, May 24", and then commencement ceremonies all day at the University of La Verne. The Memorial Day holiday event at Veterans Hall on Monday, May 27 at 11:00 a.m. and Congresswoman Grace Napolitano is hosting a Veteran's Forum on Saturday, June 15t at the Azusa National Guard Armory.
Mayor Hepburn commented on his recent visit to the Los Angeles County Fair, good food, great weather, concerts are great.
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 5-0.
3. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES of the regular City Council meeting of May 6, 2024.
Recommendation: That the City Council approve the minutes. Approved
4. REGISTER OF AUDITED DEMANDS for the following dates and amounts:
1. $254,458.26, dated May 1, 2024
Recommendation: That the City Council approve the Register of Audited Demands.
Approved
5. City of La Verne Treasurer's Report for the Quarter Ending March 31, 2024. The Treasurer's Report for the Quarter ending March 31, 2024, is submitted to the City Council to receive and file per City of La Verne Administrative Regulation Number 215, the Statement of Investment Policy, and the State of California's Government Code (GC) Section 53646.
Recommendation: That the City Council receive and file the Treasurer's Report for the quarter ending March 31, 2024. Approved
6.. Maintenance District No. 84-1M, Esperanza Road Slopes, Engineer's Report. Attached for City Council's review is the Engineer's Report for Maintenance District No. 84-1M. The report contains a reference to the existing plans and specifications for the area to be maintained, the estimated cost to maintain for the Fiscal Year (FY) July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and the assessment diagram. It is proposed that there will be no change in the levy from the previous thirty-two years ($8.00 per parcel). Staff is recommending that City Council approve the Engineer's Report on a preliminary basis and set the Public Hearing for June 17, 2024.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt the attached Resolution approving the Engineer's Report and setting the Public Hearing for June 17, 2024. Approved
7. Removal of Existing Crosswalk Located at Arrow Highway and B Street. The existing crosswalk at the intersection of Arrow Highway and "B" Street is limited to pavement markings and warning signage with no other elements to enhance warning to drivers of potential pedestrian crossings. With the activation of a new signalized intersection at Arrow Highway and A Street, an alternative crossing location within approximately 600 feet of this existing crosswalk is now available for pedestrian users. In order to proceed with removal of the existing crosswalk, California Vehicle Code (CVC) §21950.5 requires that a public hearing and notice of the proposal be completed.
Recommendation: That City Council initiate proceedings for the removal of the existing crosswalk located on the east leg of the intersection of Arrow Highway at "B" Street, setting the public hearing for July 1, 2024, and directing the Deputy City Clerk to complete the required notice. Approved
8. Resolution Approving Participation in the Los Angeles Urban County Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program. The City of La Verne, through the Los Angeles Urban County Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Program, has been allocated funding to participate in eligible affordable housing programs. The eligible programs the City will be participating in are Operating Costs for Emergency Shelters and Supportive Case Management for the unhoused.
Recommendation: That City Council adopt the attached Resolution titled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING PARTICIPATION IN THE LOS ANGELES URBAN COUNTY PERMANENT LOCAL HOUSING ALLOCATION PROGRAM." Approved
9. Authorizing City Staff Involvement in a Re-Constituted Veterans' Memorial Ad Hoc Committee On May 6, 2024, a presentation to the City Council announced a planned addition of three (3) bronze statues to the Veterans' Memorial. The City Council gave direction to authorize the City Manager to designate two Staff members to participate with a re-constituted Veterans' Memorial Ad Hoc Committee.
Recommendation: That the City Council Authorize the City Manager to Designate Two (2) Staff Members to Participate in the Veterans' Memorial Ad Hoc Committee. Approved
10. Adoption of Ordinance 24-1127, "An Ordinance Authorizing an Amendment to the Contract Between the City Council of La Verne and the Board of Administration of the California Public Employees' Retirement System." This action is to adopt an ordinance amending the contract between the City and the Board of Administration for the California Public Employees' Retirement System related to employee cost share percentage of the employer's portion.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Ordinance 24-1127, "An Ordinance Authorizing an Amendment to the Contract Between the City Council of La Verne and the Board of Administration of the California Public Employees' Retirement System." Approved
OTHER MATTERS
Item # 13 was moved to the top of Other Matters
13. Approval of the Old Town La Verne Business Improvement District Annual Report and Intention to Levy an Annual Assessment. The 2023-2024 annual report for the Old Town La Verne Business Improvement District has been prepared for review by the City Council. Per state law, the City Council is required to declare its intention to hold a public hearing to levy annual assessments for the businesses located within the district area.
Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Approve the 2023-2024 Annual Report for the Old Town La Verne Business Improvement District (BID); and,
2. Adopt the attached Resolution declaring the City's intention to levy an annual assessment for Fiscal Year 2024-25 for the BID at their meeting on June 3, 2024.
Community Development Director Scherer reported on this item. District Chair Craig Walters reported on events and special presentations, and the turnout of recent events, two car shows and the Wine Walk. This year's Community Non-Profit Charity Partner to receive a donation from the association is the La Verne Rotary Club.
Rotary Club President Diana Laguna received a ceremonial check for $2,000.
Mayor Hepburn called for public comment: There was none.
Council comments: Mayor Pro Tem Johnson announced La Verne Rotary Club will donate the $2,000 to be used for Love La Verne Day.
Mayor Hepburn, The Love La Verne Day was sponsored by the La Verne Chamber of Commerce, La Verne Rotary and the University of La Verne. Mayor Hepburn requested that lights get installed on the north side of D Street, where the bank and Hanawalt Dentistry is located.
Mayor Hepburn called for a motion to approve and adopt the recommendations as stated, it was moved by Crosby and seconded by Johnson, approved by a vote of 5-0.
11. Annual Partnership Agreement with the La Verne Chamber of Commerce Annually, the City and the La Verne Chamber of Commerce enter into a Partnership Agreement for a 12-month term from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, to include a financial subsidy of $45,000 for various services received benefiting the business community.
Recommendation: As recommended by the City Council Chamber Liaison Committee, that the City Council approve a Partnership Agreement with the La Verne Chamber of Commerce for July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.
City Manager Domer called forward Community Development Director Scherer to report on this item.
La Verne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Skinner reported on the 2023- 2024 accomplishments per the partnership agreement, highlighting events such as the annual Taste of La Verne, the fourth annual Restaurant week, the annual Excellence in La Verne Business of the Year awards, Teacher of the Year Awards, and the Scholarship program. Additional programs and services highlighted were various outreach programs, networking events, career fairs, ribbon cuttings and the hosting of the State of the City event.
Mayor Hepburn called for public comment: There was none.
Council comments: Council Member Crosby thanked Director Skinner and her Team for all that they do for the Community.
Council Member Kashifalghita also thanked Director Skinner on the great events the Chamber does.
Council Member Lau echoed the sentiments about the Chamber's great work, and attention to detail at every event, and thanked them for everything they do.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson stated, it was a pleasure to have Rotary Club President Diana at Love La Verne Day to keep us all on track.
Mayor Hepburn commented on the number of empty stores, and is looking forward to the Chamber, the City and our Community Development Department collaboration to get more businesses in our Community.
Mayor Hepburn called for a motion, it was moved by Johnson and seconded by Lau and approved by a vote of 5-0.
12. Police Department Utilization and Staffing Study Matrix Consulting Group Utilization and staffing study for the Police Department.
Recommendation: That the City Council receive and file the Police Department Utilization and Staffing Study completed by the Matrix Consulting Group.
City Manager Domer called forward Police Chief Gonzalez to report on this item, after a
brief overview and review of the recommendation, Chief Gonzalez introduced the President of Matrix Consulting, Mr. Richard Brady to provide the presentation.
Mayor Hepburn called for public comment: Danita Beauchamp (via Zoom) Council Discussion with Consultant Brady regarding the various elements and components of the presented report.
Follow up comments were received from Chief Gonzalez.
Mayor Hepburn called for a motion, it was moved by Crosby and seconded by Lau, and approved with a vote of 5-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT
(Below are only partial public comments, please visit the City's website to view the archived Council meeting.)
Mayor Hepburn called for public comments: Steven Chavez, on Electric charging stations.
COUNCIL COMMENTS AND CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Mayor Hepburn called for Council comments:
Council Member Lau: announced the final weekend of the Fair will be the Memorial Day weekend. University of La Verne does amazing things for students. Quick shou out to Sergeant Jay Alvarado for receiving his master's degree in law enforcement ana public safety leadership from the University of San Diego.
Council Member Crosby: reported on his meeting with staff and Foothill Transit regarding re-routing the buses to move farther east on Durward Street to have more parking space in front of the library. Reminder that the Memorial Day celebration is at 11:00 a.m. at Veteran's Hall. The Lutheran High School property, we need to look at some park space there as District 2 has very little park space.
Council Member Kashifalghita would like to dedicate his closing comments in remembrance of those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our Country, there are La Verne residents and wants to use this time to remember their names as a Veteran and we as a Community, We Never Forget! For those that have paid that ultimate sacrifice, the MIA's and the POW's.
From the Vietnam War: MIA, Lt. Col. James Richard Mc Elveen, 430t Tactical Fighter Squadron, 474th Tactical Fighter Wing.
From Operation Iraqi Freedom: Private First-Class Corey Hilts, 2nd Battalion, 12t Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team.
Brigade.
Jeong Ko Kim, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team.
We Never Forget!
Council Member Johnson: the Gold Line sent out a notice regarding the start of work which will be making a lot of noise as they are grinding the train tracks.
Mayor Hepburn: commented on the Grace Miller Elementary School visit and tour at City Hall as they are studying government. Mock Council meetings were held in the Chamber. Police, Fire and Public Works all staged vehicles and machinery behind City Hall for the kids to see. The Public Works sewer monitoring vehicle was a big hit with a demonstration of the use of cameras in the sewer lines, where several Ninja Turtles were spotted. The Bear Cat was a big hit and the Fire Ambulance. Mayor Hepburn then led the singing of Happy Birthday to Finance Director Lopez, and Assistant City Manager Ranells.
Mayor Hepburn requested City Manager Domer to bring an item to City Council about supporting the Proposition 47 Reform Initiative, which has qualified for the ballot.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:52 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Aidea trity
Debra Fritz
Deputy City Clerk