Agenda packet — La Verne City Council, October 19, 2026

City Council Meeting
AGENDA AMENDED - 10-19-26A.PDF
2026-10-19 Council Agenda Packet
PACKET - AMENDED 101926.PDF

1. Documents:

2. Documents:

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

AGENDA - AMENDED
Tim Hepburn, Mayor
Wendy Lau, Council Member
Steven Frank Johnson, Council Member
Rick Crosby, Council Member
Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita, Mayor Pro Tem
Monday, October 19, 2026
Closed Session at 5:30 PM
Regular Meeting at 6:30 PM
La Verne City Hall - Council Chambers,
3660 D Street, La Verne, CA 91750
In compliance with the American Disabilities Act, any person with a disability who requires a modification or accommodation to participate in a meeting should contact the City Clerk’s Office at (909) 596-8726 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Regular Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month.

Individuals can email their comments to the City Clerk's Office at [email protected] up to noon on the day of the meeting. Those comments will be shared with City Council in advance of the City Council meeting and included as part of the permanent record. Please be advised that public comments submitted by emails or any other format to the City are public records that will be made available for public viewing.

Individuals who wish to share their comments with Council during the meeting may do so in a variety of ways:
• Attend the City Council Meeting in person and fill out a comment card or raise your hand to request to comment on the current agenda item(s).
• Participate via Zoom, by visiting www.LaVerneCA.gov/zoom where you will be automatically redirected to the meeting or call into the meeting via phone 1-669-900-6833 and enter ID 819 6020 8541 when prompted. Public comments via Zoom may be accepted for all items on the City Council meeting agenda. Zoom participants who violate decorum protocols will be called to order by the presiding officer and if a violation continues, will be muted by direction of the presiding officer. • Once items are considered by the City Council, no further public comment on that matter will be accepted. A time limit of 3-minutes is set for all public comments.

Council Meeting Decorum: Per the City’s Rules for Decorum, all Speakers and Members of the Audience are to conduct themselves with decorum and not engage in willful conduct which interrupts the meeting or with the orderly conduct of the meeting.

Online Service Disruption: In the event there is a service disruption that prevents remote access to the meeting, the City shall recess open session to restore service. The City Council meeting may only reconvene open session after service is restored or, following an hour of attempting to restore service, the City Council identifies by roll-call vote that the continuation of the meeting outweighs the need for remote access.

CLOSED SESSION AGENDA - 5:30 PM
AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 2

CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL Council Member Steven F. Johnson, Council Member Wendy Lau, Council Member Rick Crosby, Mayor Pro Tem Meshal “Kash” Kashifalghita, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.

CLOSED SESSION TOPIC
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 General Unit, La Verne Firefighters Association, La Verne Fire Middle Management Association and Police Middle Management Association.

The City Council will recess and reconvene at 6:30 PM for the regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - 6:30 PM

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Family of Marine Lance Corporal Dylan R. Merola in recognition of his service and sacrifice to our country.

ROLL CALL Council Member Steven F. Johnson, Council Member Wendy Lau, Council Member Rick Crosby, Mayor Pro Tem Meshal “Kash” Kashifalghita, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.

PRESENTATIONS
University of La Verne (ULV) 2026-27 Academic Year - ULV President Risa Dickson will provide an update on the academic session.

Recognition of Maria Con YWCA Volunteer of the Year for La Verne - for her dedicated volunteer service with the City’s Senior Lunch Program. Her commitment to supporting the program and serving the community’s senior residents is sincerely appreciated.

Red Ribbon Week Proclamation - Proclaiming the week of October 23rd through 31st, 2026 as Red Ribbon Week encouraging all citizens, schools, businesses, and community organizations to participate in activities and programs aimed at promoting drug-free living and creating a stronger, healthier future for our youth.

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 this time.)

CONSENT CALENDAR
AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 3
(All items on the Consent Calendar are routine and will be enacted by one motion unless a member of the Council or member of the audience requests separate discussion.)

1. City Council Minutes of the Special Meeting of 09/29/26.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the minutes of the special meeting.

2. City Council Minutes of the Closed Session and Regular meeting of October 5, 2026.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the minutes.

3. Register of Audited Demands in the amount of $3,121,123.58, dated 9/28/2026 through 10/11/2026.

Recommendation: That the City Council approved the audited demands.

4. Waiver of Business License Fees for the University of La Verne's Homecoming Event. The University of La Verne has requested a waiver of the business license fees for vendors expected to participate at this year's Homecoming event. It is expected that they will have up to 20 vendors, which also includes current La Verne vendors.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve a waiver of business license fees for all vendors participating in the University of La Verne's Homecoming event on October 23 and October 24, 2026.

5. Approval of Agreement for Regional Supplemental Dispatch Services with the Cities of Covina, Irwindale, and Azusa. Establishes a reciprocal framework for supplemental police dispatch staffing, with assistance provided voluntarily based on availability and subject to a maximum annual cost of $30,000 per participating city.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the Agreement for Regional Law Enforcement Services between the Cities of La Verne, Covina, Irwindale, and Azusa for supplemental police dispatch services, and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.

6. 2026 Legislative Session Report. Utilizing the City's adopted Legislative Platform, City staff continued to proactively monitor proposed legislation and submit position letters on bills with significant implications for City operations, local control, and fiscal stability. During the legislative session, the City advocated on 17 state bills, in addition to federal funding priorities and regional legislative matters.

Recommendation: That the City Council receive and file the attached 2026 Legislative Session Advocacy Update.

PUBLIC HEARING

7. General Plan Safety Element Amendment to Incorporate the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by Reference and Make California Environmental Quality Act Findings. General Plan Safety Element Amendment – Incorporation of the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by Reference
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL,

CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN SAFETY ELEMENT TO INCORPORATE THE 2026 CITY OF LA VERNE LOCAL HAZARD AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 4
MITIGATION PLAN BY REFERENCE" and find the amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) and 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies) of the State CEQA Guidelines.

DISCUSSION CALENDAR

8. Consideration of Side Letter Agreement with La Verne Firefighters Association Regarding Paramedic Certification Pay. The City and La Verne Firefighters Association (LVFA) have agreed on a side letter to the current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that details how prospective, successfully certified paramedics will be compensated if the City and LVFA have not yet agreed to a successor MOU.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the Side Letter Agreement with the La Verne Firefighters Association regarding paramedic compensation and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
This is the time set aside for anyone wishing to address the City Council on items not listed in any other place on the agenda and within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council. Under the provisions of the Brown Act, the legislative body is prohibited from talking or engaging in discussion on any item not appearing on the posted agenda. However, your concerns may be referred to staff or set for discussion later. There is a 3-minute time limit on public comments.

COUNCIL COMMENTS AND CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Each Council Member may address the Council and public on matters of general information and/or concern. This is also the time for Council Members to report on conferences and/or meetings they have attended per Assembly Bill 1234.

ADJOURNMENTS
Wayne Hurley - The City Council respectfully adjourns in memory of Wayne Hurley a 25-year resident of La Verne. Wayne served on the City’s General Plan Advisory Committee and the Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District’s Public Financing Authority, contributing his time and experience to help shape the community’s future. He was also deeply involved with the La Verne Chamber of Commerce, serving as a Board Member and Chairman of the Board in 2019, where he supported local businesses and the continued vitality of the community.

Professionally, Wayne dedicated more than four decades to helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate insurance and financial planning, providing guidance to help others achieve financial security and plan for retirement. His commitment to La Verne extended to its schools and youth, including his involvement as a parent at Bonita High School and his service as Treasurer of the Bonita Boosters. Through his professional career and community involvement, Wayne demonstrated a genuine commitment to helping others and strengthening the community he called home.

Above all, Wayne cherished his family, including his high school sweetheart and beloved wife, Kathy, their three daughters, and four granddaughters. His leadership, generosity, and dedication to La Verne leaves a lasting legacy, and he will be fondly remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. The City Council extends its heartfelt condolences to Kathy, their family, and all who mourn his passing, and adjourns this meeting in Wayne Hurley’s honor and AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 5
memory.

Jeannette Vagnozzi - In memory of Jeannette Vagnozzi, a dedicated public servant whose career and community involvement left a lasting impact on the City of La Verne and the surrounding region, adjourns in her honor.

Jeannette began her career with the City of La Verne as an intern and went on to serve in several key roles, including Analyst, Public Works Manager, and Assistant to the City Manager/City Clerk. During her many years with the City, she helped advance important public works and environmental initiatives, including water conservation through the toilet exchange program and efforts to increase recycling and waste diversion. She also devoted years to helping coordinate La Verne’s beloved Fourth of July parade, contributing to a cherished community tradition.

Jeannette later returned to her hometown of Upland, where she served as Deputy City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and ultimately City Manager. A proud University of La Verne alumna, she also served as an adjunct professor, sharing her knowledge and experience with future leaders.

Throughout her career, she demonstrated a deep commitment to public service, community engagement, and developing the next generation of civic leaders.

Jeannette passed away on October 11, 2026. The City of La Verne is grateful for her many contributions and extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and former colleagues. Her legacy of service and dedication to the community will be remembered with respect and appreciation.

THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING OF THE LA VERNE CITY COUNCIL IS SCHEDULED FOR MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2026 at 5:30 P.M.

Posting Statement: A copy of this Amended Agenda was posted on October 14, 2026, on the bulletin board at La Verne City Hall, 3660 D Street, La Verne, and on the City’s website at www.LaVerneCA.gov.

RESIDENT INFORMATION

UPCOMING EVENTS AND MEETINGS
Wednesday, October 21 - Senior Advisory Committee meeting, La Verne Community Center, 10:00 am -11:15 am
Wednesday, October 21 - Parks & Recreation Commission meeting, City Hall, 5:30 pm Friday, October 23 - Dance for those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, La Verne Community Center, 5:00 - 8:00 pm
Saturday, October 24 - La Verne Historical Society - Kuns Park Square Walking Tour, Kuns Park, 1660 Bonita Ave, La Verne, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Wednesday, October 28 - Transportation & Infrastructure Commission meeting, City Hall, AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 6
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Saturday, October 31 - Halloween Trick-or-Treat in Old Town La Verne, Mainiero Square, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Monday, November 2 - Old Town La Verne Business Improvement District meeting, Café Wang, 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Monday, November 2 - City Council meeting, City Hall Council Chamber, 5:30 pm Closed/Study Session, 6:30 pm Regular meeting
Tuesday, November 3 - Development Review Committee meeting, City Hall, 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Tuesday, November 3 - Election Day, Polls open at 7:00 am, and close at 8:00 pm Wednesday, November 4 - Senior Seminar Series, La Verne Community Center, 10:30 am Sunday, November 8 - Senior Dinner Dance, La Verne Community Center, 4:00 - 7:00 pm Monday, November 9 - Senior Movie Matinee, La Verne Community Center, 12:30 - 3:00 pm Table of Contents
City Council Agenda Packet
Monday, October 19, 2026
Agenda 1
Agenda Items

PRESENTATIONS
ULV President Risa Dickson
Recognition of YWCA Volunteer of the Year-Maria Con
Red Ribbon Week Proclamation

CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes of the 09/29/26 Special Meeting 7

2. Council Minutes of the 10/05/26 Closed Session and Regular Meeting 9

3. Registers of Audited Demands 16

4. Waiver of Business License Fee for the University of La Verne Homecoming Event 50

5. Approval of Agreement for Regional Supplemental Dispatch Services with the Cities of Covina, Irwindale and Azusa 61

6. 2026 Legislative Session Report 71

PUBLIC HEARING

7. RESO Approving and Amendment to the General Plan Safety Element 75

DISCUSSION CALENDAR

8. Consideration of Side Letter Agreement with LV Firefighters Association Regarding Paramedic Cerification Pay 87

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

CLOSED SESSION AGENDA - 5:30 PM

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AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 2

CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL Council Member Steven F. Johnson, Council Member Wendy Lau, Council Member Rick Crosby, Mayor Pro Tem Meshal “Kash” Kashifalghita, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.

CLOSED SESSION TOPIC
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 General Unit, La Verne Firefighters Association, La Verne Fire Middle Management Association and Police Middle Management Association.

The City Council will recess and reconvene at 6:30 PM for the regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - 6:30 PM

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Family of Marine Lance Corporal Dylan R. Merola in recognition of his service and sacrifice to our country.

ROLL CALL Council Member Steven F. Johnson, Council Member Wendy Lau, Council Member Rick Crosby, Mayor Pro Tem Meshal “Kash” Kashifalghita, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.

PRESENTATIONS
University of La Verne (ULV) 2026-27 Academic Year - ULV President Risa Dickson will provide an update on the academic session.

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 this time.)

CONSENT CALENDAR

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AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 3
(All items on the Consent Calendar are routine and will be enacted by one motion unless a member of the Council or member of the audience requests separate discussion.)

1. City Council Minutes of the Special Meeting of 09/29/26.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the minutes of the special meeting.

2. City Council Minutes of the Closed Session and Regular meeting of October 5, 2026.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the minutes.

3. Register of Audited Demands in the amount of $3,121,123.58, dated 9/28/2026 through 10/11/2026.

Recommendation: That the City Council approved the audited demands.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve a waiver of business license fees for all vendors participating in the University of La Verne's Homecoming event on October 23 and October 24, 2026.

Recommendation: That the City Council receive and file the attached 2026 Legislative Session Advocacy Update.

PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN SAFETY ELEMENT TO INCORPORATE THE 2026 CITY OF LA VERNE LOCAL HAZARD

Page 3 of 378 ends

AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 4
MITIGATION PLAN BY REFERENCE" and find the amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) and 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies) of the State CEQA Guidelines.

DISCUSSION CALENDAR

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AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 5
memory.

Throughout her career, she demonstrated a deep commitment to public service, community engagement, and developing the next generation of civic leaders.

THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING OF THE LA VERNE CITY COUNCIL IS SCHEDULED FOR MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2026 at 5:30 P.M.

RESIDENT INFORMATION

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AGENDA City Council 10/19/2026 Page 6
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Saturday, October 31 - Halloween Trick-or-Treat in Old Town La Verne, Mainiero Square, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Monday, November 2 - Old Town La Verne Business Improvement District meeting, Café Wang, 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Monday, November 2 - City Council meeting, City Hall Council Chamber, 5:30 pm Closed/Study Session, 6:30 pm Regular meeting
Tuesday, November 3 - Development Review Committee meeting, City Hall, 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Tuesday, November 3 - Election Day, Polls open at 7:00 am, and close at 8:00 pm Wednesday, November 4 - Senior Seminar Series, La Verne Community Center, 10:30 am Sunday, November 8 - Senior Dinner Dance, La Verne Community Center, 4:00 - 7:00 pm Monday, November 9 - Senior Movie Matinee, La Verne Community Center, 12:30 - 3:00 pm

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MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2026

ACTION MINUTES
“SEE ITALICS”
CALL TO ORDER - meeting called to order at 6:03 PM.

ROLL CALL Council Member Steven F. Johnson, Council Member Wendy Lau, Council Member Rick Crosby, Mayor Pro Tem Meshal “Kash” Kashifalghita, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.

Council Members Present: Crosby, Lau, Johnson, Kashifalghita, and Hepburn.

Council Members Absent: None
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Domer, Assistant City Attorney Tsai, and Assistant City Manager Ranells.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - led by Mayor Pro Tem Kashifalghita.

ACTION ITEMS

1. Resolution Ratifying Proclamation No. 26-01 Declaring the Existence of a Local Emergency. On September 25, 2026, the City Manager issued a proclamation for a local emergency based on the existence of conditions of disaster at the Wheeler/Metropolitan Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Fire Incident. Per La Verne Municipal Code Section 2.56.050 A.1., the City Council shall take action to ratify the proclamation within seven days thereafter or the proclamation shall have no further force or effect.

City Manager Domer presented this item.

Council Comments: None
Public Comments: None
It was moved by Crosby, seconded by Lau and approved 5-0 by roll call vote.

2. Update on Wheeler/Metropolitan Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Fire Incident. On Tuesday, September 22, 2026, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Metropolitan Water District's (MWD) Weymouth Treatment Facility failed, resulting in a lithium battery fire and prolonged emergency incident. This presentation will serve as an update on the incident based on the latest information from the La Verne Fire Department, Police Department, and regional partners responding to the incident.

Battalion Chief Mark Savage introduced the speakers and stakeholders present.

Speakers included: Brandon Coatney, La Verne Fire Chief; Los Angeles County Health HazMat Assistant Chief Fernando Flores and Supervising Hazardous Materials Specialist Ernie Hernandez; Metropolitan Water District Assistant General Manager John Bednarski and Assistant General Manager Shane Chapman; and from Los Angeles County Public Health, Dr.

Nichole Quick (attending virtually).

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
Minutes City Council 9/29/2026 Page 2
Fire Chief Coatney led off the presentation with input from City Manager Domer and Metropolitan Water District Assistant General Manager Chapman completing the presentation.

COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council questioned when the batteries were installed, and who is monitoring them, and questioned how to make a resolution or ordinance that states any install goes through the Planning Department.

PUBLIC COMMENTS: - Numerous residents commented, below is a summary grouped by topic:

Fire Incident and Facility Safety: Concerns regarding the severity of the incident, system design and inspection, firefighting water runoff, and the battery facility’s proximity to homes and senior residences. Questions about whether the remaining batteries will be removed or returned to service.

Environmental and Health Impacts: Air quality monitoring, hazardous emissions, aerosolized metals, soil and water testing, indoor contamination, and cleanup procedures. Potential health effects, smoke exposure, property damage, and costs associated with testing and remediation were also discussed.

Emergency Notifications and Evacuation: Delayed or missed emergency alerts, difficulty locating information, confusion over initial evacuation boundaries, and the need for improved communication, evacuation planning, and public training on the Genasys notification system.

Emergency Response and Preparedness: Emergency personnel’s awareness of battery hazards, protective equipment, and overall preparedness. Discussion included CERT volunteer recognition and the need for improved fire detection, suppression systems, and emergency response procedures.

Regulatory Review and Future Prevention: Questions regarding CEQA compliance, facility design and location, battery spacing, hazard mitigation studies, and the potential adoption of a local ordinance regulating battery energy storage systems. The investigation timeline and measures to prevent similar incidents were also discussed.

Community Impacts and Assistance: Concerns regarding smoke exposure, impacts on children and seniors, property damage, environmental contamination, insurance claims, and compensation. The importance of ongoing communication, transparency, and improved emergency preparedness was emphasized. Positive feedback regarding the City’s response was also expressed.

Public Comments were closed at 10:28 PM. Closing comments by the City Council including many thanks to all of the first responders, the residents for their patience, and encouraging residents and businesses to work with MWD on claims.

ADJOURNMENT- meeting adjourned at 8:39 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Debra Fritz, CMC
Deputy City Clerk

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026

MINUTES OF THE CLOSED SESSION & REGULAR
MEETING OF OCTOBER 5, 2026

ACTION MINUTES
“SEE ITALICS”
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA - 5:30 PM
CALL TO ORDER - meeting called to order at 5:30 PM.

ROLL CALL Council Member Steven F. Johnson, Council Member Wendy Lau, Council Member Rick Crosby, Mayor Pro Tem Meshal “Kash” Kashifalghita, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.

Council Members Present: Crosby, Lau, Johnson, Kashifalghita, and Hepburn.

Council Members Absent: None
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Domer, City Attorney Hall Barlow, and Assistant City Manager Ranells.

CLOSED SESSION TOPIC
City Attorney Hall Barlow read the closed session items into the record.

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 General Unit, La Verne Firefighters Association, and La Verne Fire Middle Management Association.

The City Council will recess and reconvene at 6:30 PM for the regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - 6:30 PM- meeting called to order at 6:32 PM.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - US Army Sgt First Class Maria Estrada Council thanked Maria for her dedication and service to our Country.

ROLL CALL Council Member Steven F. Johnson, Council Member Wendy Lau, Council Member Rick Crosby, Mayor Pro Tem Meshal “Kash” Kashifalghita, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.

Council Members Present: Crosby, Lau, Johnson, Kashifalghita, and Hepburn.

Council Members Absent: None
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Domer, City Attorney Hall Barlow, and Assistant City Manager Ranells.

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
Minutes City Council 10/5/2026 Page 2

PRESENTATIONS
Fire Prevention Month Proclamation - Every year, October is recognized as National Fire Prevention month to raise fire safety awareness and help protect homes and families. The La Verne Fire Department works diligently to protect the community against potential wildfires and during this time will provide a few tips residents can implement to prevent fires.

Council presented the proclamation to Fire Marshal Fred St. Ange, and his special guest Sparky! Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation - October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, encouraging all residents to challenge the social norms that enable domestic violence, offer meaningful support to survivors, and acknowledge the dedicated efforts of those working to prevent and respond to this issue.

House of Ruth CEO Ruth Bell was present to receive the proclamation and gave an overview on House of Ruth’s mission to provide assistance.

Order of the Alhambrans Recognition - Recognizing the Order of the Alhambrans for more than 20 years of dedicated volunteer service to the City of La Verne. For their continued support of dances for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The Order of the Alhambrans is also being recognized for their generous donation of the City’s first Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) board, helping to promote greater accessibility and inclusion within the community.

Council presented a Pride of La Verne certificate to Vincent and Chris Braun from the Order of the Alhambrans.

CHANGE IN AGENDA ORDER - Discussion Calendar item #6 was moved forward.

6. License Agreement with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12034 for Use of Veterans Hall.

Consideration of a License Agreement with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12034 (VFW) for continued use of designated space within Veterans Hall at 1550 Bonita Avenue, including consideration of a facility license fee structure for the VFW’s exclusive use of the space.

Recommendation: That the City Council:

1. Approve the License Agreement with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12034 for use of designated space within Veterans Hall;

2. Select one of the following Facility License Fee options for inclusion in Exhibit B:
a. $500 per month ($6,000 annually);
b. $1 per year as a nominal license fee; or
c. No facility license fee;

3. Determine whether the $500 refundable security deposit should remain applicable under the selected fee option; and

4. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement and any non-substantive amendments necessary to implement the Agreement, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.

Parks & Recreation Director Duran reported on this item.

Council Discussion/Comments: Council discussed the information and options provided.

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
Minutes City Council 10/5/2026 Page 3
Public Comments received from: Maria McKinney, Mark Travera, Joseph Magallanes, Ruben Banuelos, Eric Rodriguez, John Choven, Maria Estrada, Kathy Kalousek, Richard Bowen, Craig Walters, and Don Kendrick.

Council gave direction to charge $1.00 a year nominal fee, waive the $500.00 deposit, and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement and any non-substantive amendments necessary to implement the Agreement, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.

VFW Post #12034, will provide the required insurance at their expense.

Discussion item #6 was motioned by Crosby, seconded by Lau and approved 5-0.

Council took a 5 minute break and reconvened the regular meeting at 7:54 pm.

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 this time.)
Announcements received from: Adrian Romero La Verne Library Manager, Genesis Rodriguez, LA County Sanitation District, Kathy Kalousek VP of LV Historical Society, John Bednarski, Metropolitan Water District, Debra Carter LV Chamber of Commerce, Yvonne Gallegos CASI Representative, and Richard Bowen.

CONSENT CALENDAR
(All items on the Consent Calendar are routine and will be enacted by one motion unless a member of the Council or member of the audience requests separate discussion.) After confirming no items were pulled by either Council or a member of the Public, it was moved by Crosby, seconded by Lau, and approved 5-0.

1. City Council Minutes of the Closed Session and Regular meeting of 09/21/26.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the minutes. Approved

2. Register of Audited Demands in the amount of $2,092,167.03, dated 9/14/2026 through 9/27/2026.

Recommendation: That the City Council approve the audited demands. Approved

3. Contract Award to the Vance Corporation for the White Avenue Rehabilitation Project.

This item includes the recommended award of a construction contract to the Contractor with the lowest responsive bid submitted for the City of La Verne White Avenue Rehabilitation Project and declaration of two public alleyways as public streets. Bids for this project were opened on September 15, 2026.

Recommendation: That the City Council:

1. Award a construction contract for the subject project including the Base Scope of Work with Additive Alternate Bid Items A-10 and A-11 to Vance Corporation in the amount of $1,272,329.00;

2. Authorize staff to issue change orders not exceeding 15% of the construction budget for a total possible construction contract cost of $1,463,178.35;

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Minutes City Council 10/5/2026 Page 4

3. Authorize staff to issue a purchase order in the amount of $91,500 to RKA Consulting Group for Construction Management, Materials Testing, and Inspection for the construction project;

4. Adopt a Resolution titled: “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY

OF LA VERNE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, DECLARING A PUBLIC ALLEYWAY LOCATED SOUTH OF 6TH STREET, BETWEEN WHITE AVENUE AND “I” STREET TO BE A PUBLIC STREET”; and

5. Adopt a Resolution titled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

LA VERNE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, DECLARING A PUBLIC ALLEYWAY LOCATED SOUTH OF 5TH STREET, BETWEEN WHITE AVENUE AND “I” STREET TO BE A PUBLIC STREET."
All recommendations as stated above were approved.

4. LA IMPACT Purchase of Safran Helicopter Engine. Acting as the fiduciary agent for LA IMPACT, consideration of awarding a contract for the Safran Arriel 1D1 Module Exchange following an unsuccessful formal bid solicitation and subsequent outreach to qualified vendors.

Recommendation: That the City Council:

1. Determine that the City’s formal competitive solicitation for the Safran Arriel 1D1 Module Exchange resulted in no bids and that the subsequent direct solicitation of qualified vendors was appropriate due to inadequate competition and the time-sensitive publicsafety need;

2. Award a contract to Advanced Helicopter Services (AHS) for an amount not to exceed $674,050 for the Safran Arriel 1D1 Module Exchange; and

3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement and any related documents, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.

All recommendations as stated above were approved.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

5. Approval of a Resolution Approving the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Adoption and Finding the Action is Exempt from CEQA Pursuant to Sections 15061(B)(3) and 15262.

Consideration of the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which received FEMA approval pending adoption on May 22, 2026. Adoption of the Plan will make the City eligible to apply for hazard mitigation funding through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) program.

Recommendation: That the City Council adopt a Resolution, titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE

CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE ADOPTION OF THE 2026 CITY OF LA VERNE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN AND FINDING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS EXEMPT FROM CEQA PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION) AND 15262 (FEASIBILITY AND PLANNING STUDIES) OF THE STATE CEQA GUIDELINES."
Community Risk Reduction Specialist Shipman presented this item, inputs from Black & Veatch representatives Megan and Rob.

Mayor Hepburn opened the Public Hearing.

Council Discussion/Comments: None

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Public Comments: Mona Bontty, and Raymon Swain.

It was moved by Johnson, seconded by Kashifalghita, and approved by a vote of 5-0.

DISCUSSION CALENDAR

6. Item moved to the beginning of the meeting - License Agreement with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12034 for Use of Veterans Hall.

7. Authorization to Execute a Purchase Order to Complete the 2027 Water Master Plan Update. Consideration of authorizing CivilTec Engineering, Inc. to prepare an update to the City’s Water Master Plan for an amount not to exceed $249,946.00. Funding is included in the adopted Capital Improvement Program under Project WT2703 from the Water Capital Improvement Fund (Fund 507).

Recommendation: That the City Council authorize the City Manager to Execute a Purchase Order with Civiltec Engineering, Inc., for the 2027 Water Master Plan Update.

Public Works Director Wu and Public Works Manager Forsberg reported on this item.

Council Discussion/Comments: Mayor Hepburn appreciates this plan to protect the city.

Public Comments: None
It was moved by Lau, seconded by Crosby, and approved by a vote of 5-0.

8. Public Financing Authority - Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District Board Appointment. Due to a vacancy on the PFA-EIFD Board, the City Council is asked to consider appointing a new public member. On July 20, 2026, the City Council extended the application period through September 24, 2026. A total of 10 applications were received.

Recommendation: That the City Council consider a public member appointment to serve on the Public Financing Authority - EIFD Board, to serve until a successor is selected.

City Manager Domer reported on this item.

Council Discussion/Comments: Council discussed the appointment and the choice of the appointment of Steven Wagner, due to his finance background and extensive experience with various entities, and has applied to a city commission multiple times. Mayor Pro Tem Kashifalghita put forth Robin Carder for appointment.

Public Comments from the following: Kathy Kalousek, Sherry Best as read by Kathy Kalousek, Mr. Foley and Richard Bowen.

It was moved by Hepburn, seconded by Johnson, and approved by a vote of 3-2, with Crosby and Kashifalghita dissenting.

9. Community Organization Partnership Agreements - Holiday Stroll and Walk of Honor. The City received requests from two organizations for support of community events in Old Town La Verne on December 5, 2026. Under the new policy, City Council authorization is required for these agreements, which have been used to support similar events in the past.

Community Development Director Scherer reported on the Holiday Stroll.

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Council Discussion/Comments: Council asked clarifying questions regarding required insurance language within the agreements.

Public Comments: George Henderson President of the La Verne Old Town Business Association.

It was moved by Lau, seconded by Crosby, and approved by a vote of 5-0 to approved the Holiday Stroll agreement.

Craig Walters reported on the Walk of Honor.

Council Discussion/Comments: Council asked clarifying questions and agreed with the importance of honoring those that have helped shape the community.

Public Comments: None
It was moved by Lau, seconded by Kashifalghita, and approved by a vote of 5-0 to approve the Walk of Honor agreement.

Public Comments received from: Sherry Shaw, John Givens, Steve Dukett, Robert Carder, Mona Bontty, Richard Bowen, Kathy Kalousek, Pam Berry, and Brian Bowcock.

Council Member Lau thanked Fire, CERT, PD, Public Works and staff for all their efforts during the evacuation and aftereffects and reminded everyone with the upcoming El Nino take time to prepare.

Council Member Crosby took a moment to recognize John Chauvin who ran with the Olympic torch in 2002 and spoke earlier, also raised concerns regarding the audience being able to see the public comment timer while seated in the Chamber, reminded all of the upcoming Halloween Hop dance, and requested that the intersections of Bowdoin and Emerald be reevaluated, due to the high traffic volume using White Ave now that school is back in session and also requested a resolution requiring any business within La Verne boundaries doing improvement must at least get planning commission approval.

Council Member Johnson announced the upcoming first responders luncheon that Hillcrest is holding on October 20th.

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Mayor Pro Tem Kashifalghita thanked the residents for participating and sharing their concerns, supports VFW Post 12034 and understands how important it is for our veterans to have a place for connection and support, public safety remains a priority, being prepared for emergencies, planning ahead, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month a time to celebrate the survivors and honor those who lost their lives, honor their families and caregivers, and medical professionals. Thanked City staff, first responders and volunteers for all you do for our great city.

Mayor Hepburn expressed appreciation for the leadership of fellow council members, and city management.

ADJOURNMENT - meeting was adjourned at 10:36 PM

Respectfully submitted,
Debra Fritz, CMC
Deputy City Clerk

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Amount Period Activity
* $ 1,561,265.58 9/28/2026 through 10/04/2026 City Treasurers (includes LAHIDTA & Payroll Benefits) ** $ 805,143.35 10/05/2026 through 10/11/2026 City Treasurers (includes LAHIDTA & Payroll Benefits) $ 754,714.65 9/21/2026 through 10/04/2027 Payroll (Salaries_Paid 10/08/2026) $ 3,121,123.58
*
** Includes payment for $ 292,301.08 for employee benefits/payroll expenses ____________________________________________________

CHRISTY LOPEZ

FINANCE DIRECTOR
Report Key
CX - Cleared
IS - Issued
IN ACCORDANCE WITH GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 37202, I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS IS A TRUE AND ACCURATE REGISTER OF AUDITED DEMANDS.

Transaction details provided in supplemental reports

CITY OF LA VERNE

DEMANDS PRESENTED HAVE BEEN APPROVED CONSISTENT WITH THE CITY'S PURCHASING/FUNDING POLICY AND HAVE BEEN REVIEWED BY THE DIRECTOR FOR ACCURACY AND PROPER APPROVAL.

SUMMARY OF DEMANDS
Includes payment of $870,161.49 for Three Valleys Municipal (August water Usage) and $134,970.85 (Dept of Justice-LA CLEAR)

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GRAND TOTAL $1,561,265.58

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
City of La Verne,City Council
Agenda Report
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Eric Scherer, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: WAIVER OF BUSINESS LICENSE FEES FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF LA VERNE'S HOMECOMING EVENT.

SUMMARY
The University of La Verne has requested a waiver of the business license fees for vendors expected to participate at this year's Homecoming event. It is expected that they will have approximately 25 vendors.

RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council approve a waiver of business license fees for all vendors participating in the University of La Verne's Homecoming event on October 23 and October 24, 2026.

DISCUSSION
The University of La Verne (ULV) has requested that the City waive business license fees for vendors participating in this year's Homecoming. This is similar to recent actions the Council has taken for temporary events that have outside vendors who are only doing business for a short amount of time. While staff is currently processing a Special Event Permit for this event, the waiver is the final item for the permit. Council Member Lau has a conflict and will recuse herself on this item as she is on the ULV Board of Trustees. As discussed previously with the Council, City staff recognizes that an update is needed to address business license fees for these types of events with vendors so that a temporary or master business license can be issued with nominal fees instead of asking the Council to waive fees each time. Staff anticipates bringing these updates to the Council for approval in the near future.

FISCAL ANALYSIS
It is anticipated that there will be up to 25 vendors at this year's event. The estimated business license fees waived will range up to $1,750. This amount will vary based on current vendors already having a business license.

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
None.

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney has reviewed and approved this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. 91-26SEP Application

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City of La Verne,City Council
Agenda Report
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Sam Gonzalez, Police Chief
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT FOR REGIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL DISPATCH SERVICES WITH THE CITIES OF COVINA, IRWINDALE, AND AZUSA.

SUMMARY
The proposed Agreement establishes a reciprocal framework through which the four participating police departments may request and provide supplemental police dispatch staffing.

Assistance is voluntary, contingent on available personnel, and subject to written authorization by the responding agency’s Chief of Police. The Agreement sets a Communications Officer billing rate of $62.30 per hour and a maximum cost of $30,000 per fiscal year for each participating city.

RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council approve the Agreement for Regional Law Enforcement Services between the Cities of La Verne, Covina, Irwindale, and Azusa for supplemental police dispatch services, and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.

DISCUSSION
Police dispatch personnel support essential public safety communications. Temporary absences, staffing shortages, or unusual operational demands may create a need for additional coverage. The proposed regional arrangement allows participating agencies to seek assistance without requiring another agency to compromise its staffing needs.

The Department has had an ongoing agreement with the City of Covina to cover Dispatch services. In addition, the Department has also had an agreement with the City of Monrovia.

With the support of a grant secured through Congressman Gil Cisneros, the four local agencies are working collaboratively to combine resources, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and explore opportunities to improve regional public safety communications. This partnership represents an important first step towards the potential future development of a regional dispatch center. By evaluating shared services, operational efficiencies, technology, and longterm resource needs, the agencies aim to establish a sustainable foundation for enhanced emergency communications and improved service to the communities they serve.

A requesting agency must notify the other parties of anticipated needs at least 24 hours before the requested service. A responding agency determines, in its sole discretion, whether assistance is available and the level of support it can provide. Its Chief of Police must authorize any service commitment in writing. The agencies agree on the number and classification of dispatchers, service dates, and hours before work begins. Dispatchers remain employees of,

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Approval of Agreement for Regional Supplemental Dispatch Services with the Cities of Covina, Irwindale, and Azusa., Page 2
and under the management and personnel policies of, the responding city. The Agreement also addresses dispatch radio communications, provision of equipment and supplies, insurance, indemnification, and billing procedures. A responding city is excused from performance when emergencies, disasters, staff illness, or other unforeseeable incidents reasonably prevent it from providing scheduled services. The Agreement contemplates a term beginning on October 19, 2026, and ending on October 19, 2028. Additional one-year terms may be authorized through written amendments. Any party may terminate without cause on at least 10 calendar days’ written notice.

FISCAL ANALYSIS
Under the Agreement, the City of La Verne may incur costs of up to $30,000 per City fiscal year for supplemental police dispatch services received. The specified rate is $62.30 per hour for a Communications Officer, beginning upon the dispatcher’s arrival at the scheduled time and date. Actual expenditures will depend on the extent to which supplemental coverage is requested and provided. When La Verne provides dispatch services to another participating city, the requesting city is responsible for compensation under the Agreement. Responding cities must submit invoices within 45 calendar days after the scheduled service period, and requesting cities must pay undisputed amounts within 30 calendar days of invoice.

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Not applicable.

LEGAL REVIEW
The Agreement and this report have been reviewed and approved by the City Attorney.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Agreement for Regional Law Enforcement Services (Covina, La Verne, Azusa, Irwindale) Report Prepared By:

Travis Tibbetts, Police Captain

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AGREEMENT

FOR REGIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES
Parties: Cities of Covina, La Verne, Irwindale and Azusa This Agreement for supplemental, regional Law Enforcement services ("Agreement"), is entered into this 19th day of October 2026 ("Effective Date"), by and between the Cities of Covina, La Verne, Irwindale, and Azusa on behalf of their respective police departments, sometimes collectively referred to herein as “Parties”, and individually as “Party.,”

RECITALS
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the Parties by entering this Agreement, to provide supplemental law enforcement services to one another, consisting of police dispatching services("Police Dispatch Services” sometimes herein); and WHEREAS, the Parties enter this Agreement in order to set forth terms and conditions governing the Parties’ provision of Police Dispatch Services.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of mutual covenants contained herein, and for good and valuable consideration, the Parties agree as follows:

1. Term.

The term of this Agreement shall commence as of the Effective Date and shall remain in effect through October 19, 2028 (“Term”), unless sooner terminated or extended as provided herein. The Parties may extend this Agreement by additional one (1) year terms by written amendment hereto.

2. Scope of Services.

2.1 Each Party agrees, through their respective Police Departments, to provide Police Dispatch Services to the other Parties, as provided for herein. The level and availability of Police Dispatch Services to be provided by a Party (“Responding Party”) pursuant to a Party’s request (“Requesting Party”) shall be subject to availability of personnel as determined by each Providing Party in their sole and absolute discretion.

2.2 A Requesting Party shall notify the other Parties of its anticipated needs for Police Dispatch Services at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the needed date and time.

Thereafter, the Responding Parties will advise the Requesting Party in writing as to the what, if any, level of Police Dispatch Services each Responding Party is able to provide (“Service Request Response”), along with any other parameters established by the Responding Party’s Chief of Police. The Parties are under no obligation to consider untimely service requests. Service Request Responses must be authorized in writing by the Responding Party’s Chief of Police in order to be valid and binding on a Party.

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2.3 Each Party hereby grants to each other Party and its personnel the right as a Responding Party to provide usual and ordinary Police Dispatch Services to a Requesting Party including transmitting and broadcasting communications to each Requesting Party’s police radios via the Requesting Party’s primary dispatch frequency and/or any other law enforcement frequency for which the Party is licensed by the Federal Communications Commission.

2.4 Force Majeure. Under no circumstances shall a Responding Party’s inability or failure to provide Police Dispatch Services that were properly agreed to and scheduled, be deemed to be a breach of this Agreement when due to an emergency, disaster, staff illness, or other unforeseeable incident that reasonably prevents the Responding Party’s performance.

2.5 Each Responding Party shall furnish and supply all necessary labor, personnel, equipment and supplies necessary to provide Police Dispatch Services. Notwithstanding the foregoing, all dispatchers providing Police Dispatch Services, shall be under the management and control of the Responding Party and shall conduct themselves in accordance with the Responding Party’s personnel rules, policies and procedures. While performing Police Dispatch Services pursuant to this Agreement, dispatchers who normally wear identification and/or a uniform, shall wear their identification and/or uniform of their own department.

2.6 Requesting Parties receiving Police Dispatch Services shall promptly advise the respective Responding Party in the event any scheduled dispatcher fails to report for duty, or engages in any kind of misconduct. However, no Requesting Party shall have any authority to impose administrative discipline as to any Responding Party’s dispatchers..

3. Level of Police Dispatch Services.

As used herein, “level” of Police Dispatch Services shall mean, collectively, dates of service, man hours and number of police dispatchers to be provided for any given request. The level of Police Dispatch Services agreed to be provided by a Responding Party shall be based on the best interest of the Responding Party’s then current and anticipated staffing needs, as determined solely by the Responding Party. A decision by a Party to not agree to respond, or to provide any particular level of response, is a totally discretionary decision of that Party and under no circumstances will that decision be deemed a breach of this Agreement. Subject to the foregoing, the classification, number of dispatchers, days, and number of hours of Police Dispatch Services to be provided, shall be determined and agreed upon by the Parties prior to the provision of the requested Police Dispatch Services.

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4. Compensation.

Parties receiving Police Dispatch Services will compensate the Responding Part(ies) in an amount not to exceed Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00) per fiscal year, during the Term of this Agreement, and at the billing rate set forth below:

Communications Officer - $62.30 per hour commencing upon the dispatcher’s arrival at the scheduled time and date.

5. Administration of Personnel.

No Party shall be liable or legally responsible for the direct payment to any other Party’s personnel for salaries, wages, benefits, or other compensation for services performed pursuant to this Agreement or for any claims made by personnel for personal or bodily injuries (except as provided in Section 7 Indemnification), including but not limited to Workers' Compensation claims or benefits, arising in connection with services rendered pursuant to this Agreement. All employees who perform pursuant to this Agreement shall remain employees of their own Party and shall not have any claim or right to employment, civil service protection, salary, or benefits or claims of any kind from another Party based on this Agreement. No employee of any Party shall be deemed an employee of any other Party as a result of this Agreement.

6. Maximum Cost.

The maximum cost for Covina’s supplemental law enforcement services shall not exceed Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00.) per any fiscal year of Covina during the term of this Agreement.

The maximum cost for La Verne’s supplemental law enforcement services shall not exceed Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00.) per any fiscal year of La Verne during the term of this Agreement.

The maximum cost for Irwindale’s supplemental law enforcement services shall not exceed Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00.) per fiscal year of Irwindale during the term of this Agreement.

The maximum cost for Azusa’s supplemental law enforcement services shall not exceed Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00.) per any fiscal year of Azusa during the term of this Agreement.

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7. Indemnification.

To the maximum extent permitted by law, each Party shall indemnify, defend and hold each other Party and its elected officials, officers, and employees harmless from all claims, liabilities, costs and expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees) that such indemnified Party may suffer, sustain or become subject to as a result of the acts, omissions, or willful misconduct of the indemnifying Party in connection with this Agreement.

8. Invoices.

Within forty-five (45) calendar days after each scheduled period of providing Police Dispatch Services, the Responding Party will deliver an invoice to the Requesting Party which will then pay any undisputed amount within thirty (30) calendar days from the date of invoice. The invoice and payment shall each be delivered pursuant to the Notice requirements in Section 9.

9. Notices.

All written communications, notices, invoices, requests or approvals to be given under this Agreement, must be in writing and will be deemed served when delivered personally, by email with confirmation of receipt, or on the third business day after deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid, registered or certified, addressed as follows:

To Covina:

City of Covina Police Department
Attention: Capt. Mike Robison
444 N. Citrus Ave
Covina, CA 91723
To La Verne:

City of La Verne Police Department
Attention: Capt. Travis Tibbetts
2061 3rd St
La Verne, CA 91750
To Irwindale:

City of Irwindale Police Department
Attention: Lt. Jose Vargas
5050 N. Irwindale Ave
Irwindale, CA 91706

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To Azusa:

City of Azusa Police Department
Attention: Police Services Administrator Patricia Tachias 725 N. Alameda Ave
Azusa, CA 91702

10. Integrated Contract.

This Agreement represents the full and complete understanding of every kind or nature whatsoever between the Parties. Any preliminary negotiations and agreements of any kind or nature are merged into this Agreement. No oral agreement or implied covenant may be held to vary the provisions of this Agreement. This Agreement may be modified only by written agreement signed by Covina, La Verne, Irwindale and Azusa and approved as to form by their respective City Attorneys.

11. Insurance.

Each Party agrees to either self-insure in an amount not less than specified below or insure against damages or injuries which may arise from the activities contemplated by this Agreement by purchasing and maintaining for the term of this Agreement a commercial general liability insurance policy, and automobile policy, both with a combined single limit of not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000), which policy shall include or be endorsed to include the other Parties as additional insureds. The Parties agree to provide evidence of such insurance upon request. Each party shall also carry Worker’s Compensation Insurance for its own employees as required by law.

12. Waiver.

A waiver of any breach of this Agreement may not be deemed a waiver of any subsequent breach of the same or any other term, covenant, or condition of this Agreement.

13. Default and Termination.

Any Party may, at its sole discretion and without cause, terminate this Agreement for convenience by giving at least ten (10) calendar days’ prior written notice to the other Parties.

Upon termination of this Agreement, the terminating Party will pay any amounts owed to other Parties, and other Parties will pay any amounts owed to the terminating Party, as applicable.

14. Governing Law.

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This Agreement will be interpreted and governed according to the laws of the State of California.

15. Venue and Jurisdiction.

Venue for any litigation arising out of this Agreement may only be brought in either the United States District Court, Central District of California, or the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. The Parties agree that venue exists in either court and each Party expressly waives any right to transfer to another venue. The Parties further agree that either court will have personal jurisdiction over the Parties to this Agreement.

16. Survival of Provisions and Obligations.

Any provision of this Agreement, which by its nature must be exercised after termination of this Agreement, will survive termination and remain effective for the applicable limitations period for legal action. Any obligation that accrued prior to termination of this Agreement will survive termination of this Agreement.

17. This Agreement may be signed in counterparts by each Party. [Signature pages follow.]

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CITY OF COVINA, a Municipal Corporation
By: ____________________________________
Chris Marcarello
City Manager
Date: ____________________________________
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

By: ____________________________________
City Attorney
CITY OF LA VERNE, a Municipal Corporation
By: ____________________________________
Ken Domer
City Manager
Date: ____________________________________
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

By: ____________________________________
City Attorney

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CITY OF IRWINDALE, a Municipal Corporation
By: ____________________________________
Julian Miranda
City Manager
Date: ____________________________________
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

By: ____________________________________
City Attorney
CITY OF AZUSA, a Municipal Corporation
By: ____________________________________
Sergio Gonzalez
City Manager
Date: ____________________________________
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

By: ____________________________________
City Attorney

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City of La Verne,City Council
Agenda Report
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Andrea Blockinger, Management Analyst
SUBJECT: 2026 LEGISLATIVE SESSION REPORT.

SUMMARY
Throughout the 2026 Legislative Session, the California Legislature considered about 1,800 bills addressing matters that could impact local governments. Utilizing the City's adopted Legislative Platform, City staff continued to proactively monitor proposed legislation and submit position letters on bills with significant implications for City operations, local control, and fiscal stability. During the legislative session, the City advocated on 17 state bills, in addition to federal funding priorities and regional legislative matters.

RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council receive and file the attached 2026 Legislative Session Advocacy Update.

DISCUSSION
At the November 17, 2025, City Council meeting, the City Council formally adopted the 2026 Legislative Platform, which outlines the City's positions on legislative matters and provides a framework for determining whether to support or oppose local, state, and federal legislation.

Guided by this platform, City staff proactively monitored legislation throughout the year and submitted position letters on 17 state bills. In several instances, additional letters were submitted as legislation advanced through the legislative process, including requests for Governor Newsom to sign or veto specific bills.

These letters focused on legislation that aligns with the City's three guiding principles: Preserve Local Control, Promote Fiscal Stability, and Support Funding Opportunities. The City's advocacy efforts addressed a variety of issues, including housing and land use, public employee retirement benefits, public records administration, public safety, emergency preparedness, and local government operations.

One significant legislative effort involved AB 1383 (McKinnor), which proposed changes to public employee retirement benefits that could have increased long-term pension obligations for local governments. The City strongly opposed the bill due to concerns regarding its potential fiscal impacts and the weakening of existing pension reform measures. Following wide opposition from local governments across the state, Governor Newsom vetoed AB 1383 on September 20, 2026.

September 30 marked the final day for Governor Newsom to sign or veto legislation. Of the bills for which the City submitted position letters, the following eight bills were chaptered into law:

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Support
• AB 1546: Vehicles: Driving Under the Influence — Strengthens penalties and accountability for repeat DUI offenders, supporting efforts to improve roadway safety and reduce impaired driving.
• AB 1786: Public Contracts: Best Value Construction Contracting — Expands the ability of cities and eligible regional agencies to utilize best-value contracting for public construction projects, providing greater flexibility in project delivery. • AB 1821: California Public Records Act: Agency Response Time — Changes the initial determination period for public records requests from 10 calendar days to 10 business days and extends the allowable response extension from 14 calendar days to 14 business days, providing additional time for agencies to process requests. • SB 1370: Covered Wildfire Mitigation Projects: Consolidated and Expedited Review — Establishes a coordinated and expedited review process for qualifying wildfire mitigation projects, supporting efforts to improve wildfire preparedness and reduce community risks.

Oppose
• AB 1738: State Housing Law: Remote Inspections — Requires local agencies to provide remote inspection options for certain residential construction projects, creating new administrative and operational requirements for local building departments. • AB 1768: Transactions and Use Taxes: Counties of Contra Costa and Los Angeles — Authorizes Los Angeles County, subject to voter approval, to impose an additional transactions and use tax beyond existing statutory limitations, raising concerns regarding local fiscal flexibility and cumulative tax burdens. • SB 1014: Development Projects: Onsite and Offsite Improvements — Requires local agencies to provide preliminary information regarding improvements that may be required for proposed housing developments, creating additional administrative responsibilities during the development review process. • SB 1117: Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units — Modifies development impact fee calculations for accessory dwelling units, further limiting local agencies' ability to recover infrastructure costs associated with new development.

As the City prepares for the 2027 Legislative Session, Staff will continue reviewing the Legislative Platform to ensure that it reflects current City Council priorities and emerging legislative issues. The updated platform will be brought before the City Council for consideration.

For additional information, including the City's submitted position letters and 2026 Legislative Platform, please visit LaVerneCA.gov/Legislation.

FISCAL ANALYSIS
Not applicable.

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2026 Legislative Session Report., Page 3

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Not applicable.

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney has reviewed and approved this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. 2026 California Legislative Update - City of La Verne

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
Legislative Update
Preserve Local
Control
Promote Fiscal
Stability
Support Funding
Opportunities
17 Bills Advocated
For
during the California 2026 Legislative
Session
Guiding Principles
For the legislation the City submitted
position letters for, the following outlines
which guiding principles from the City’s
Legislative Platform are affected.
15 of 17
13 of 17
1 of 17
Bills by Topic
AB 1383 (Opposition)
AB 1546 (Support)
AB 1710 (Opposition)
AB 1738 (Opposition)
AB 1768 (Opposition)
AB 1786 (Support)
AB 1821 (Support)
AB 1914 (Opposition)
AB 1953 (Opposition)
AB 1997 (Opposition)
AB 2517 (Support)
SB 866 (Opposition)
SB 1013 (Opposition)
SB 1014 (Opposition)
SB 1054 (Opposition)
SB 1117 (Opposition)
SB 1370 (Support)
visit LaVerneCA.Gov/Legislation to
review the position letters
Final Advocacy
For the following proposed
legislation, the City advocated to
Governor Newsom one last time to
either support or veto the bill.

AB 1383 (Veto)
AB 1738 (Veto)
AB 1768 (Veto)
AB 1821 (Support)
AB 1997 (Veto)
SB 1013 (Veto)
Housing

47.1%
Public Safety

23.5%
Finance

11.8%
Records Requests

11.8%
Human
Resources

5.9%

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
City of La Verne,City Council
Agenda Report
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Eric Scherer, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: GENERAL PLAN SAFETY ELEMENT AMENDMENT TO INCORPORATE THE 2026 CITY OF LA VERNE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN BY

REFERENCE AND MAKE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDINGS.

SUMMARY
On October 5, 2026, the City Council adopted the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. The Plan identifies natural hazards affecting the City and establishes mitigation strategies to reduce long-term risks to life and property. Staff is now recommending that the City Council approve an amendment to the General Plan Safety Element incorporating the adopted Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by reference in accordance with Assembly Bill 2140. This amendment will strengthen coordination between the City's General Plan and hazard mitigation efforts and may provide additional eligibility for State disaster-related financial assistance.

RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council adopt "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LA VERNE,

CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN SAFETY ELEMENT TO INCORPORATE THE 2026 CITY OF LA VERNE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN BY REFERENCE" and find the amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) and 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies) of the State CEQA Guidelines.

DISCUSSION
In March 2025, the City initiated an update to its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to identify natural hazards, evaluate community vulnerabilities, and establish strategies to reduce long-term risks to life and property. The LHMP evaluates eight natural hazards considered significant to La Verne: dam failure, drought, earthquake, extreme temperatures, extreme wind, flooding, landslides, and wildfire. On May 22, 2026, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) determined that the LHMP was approvable pending adoption. On September 9, 2026, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 1363, recommending that the City Council adopt the 2026 LHMP and approve an amendment to the General Plan Safety Element incorporating the Plan by reference. On October 5, 2026, the City Council adopted the 2026 LHMP. The remaining action is to approve the General Plan Safety Element amendment in accordance with Assembly Bill 2140 (AB 2140).

AB 2140 encourages cities and counties to incorporate their federally approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plans into the Safety Element of their General Plans. Pursuant to Government Code Section 8685.9, jurisdictions meeting these requirements may qualify for an increased State

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General Plan Safety Element Amendment to Incorporate the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by Reference and Make California Environmental Quality Act Findings., Page 2 cost share for eligible disaster-related costs when authorized by the Legislature. The proposed amendment incorporates the previously adopted 2026 LHMP into the General Plan Safety Element by reference. It does not modify existing land use designations, development densities, zoning regulations, or authorize any new development. Incorporating the LHMP will improve consistency between the City's General Plan and its adopted hazard mitigation strategies while providing the potential for additional State disaster-related financial assistance.The proposed amendment is consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan relating to public safety, emergency preparedness, natural hazard mitigation, and community resiliency.

Incorporating the adopted LHMP will ensure that the Safety Element reflects the City's updated hazard assessment and mitigation strategies without modifying existing land use policies or authorizing development.

FISCAL ANALYSIS
Approval of the General Plan Safety Element amendment will not result in any direct fiscal impact to the City's General Fund. The amendment is administrative in nature and does not require additional funding or expenditures. Incorporating the 2026 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan into the General Plan Safety Element in accordance with Assembly Bill 2140 may provide the City with additional eligibility for State financial assistance to offset eligible disaster-related costs.

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The proposed General Plan Safety Element amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) and 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies) of the State CEQA Guidelines. The amendment incorporates the previously adopted 2026 LHMP by reference and does not authorize development, construction, or physical improvements. It can be seen with certainty that the proposed amendment will not result in a significant effect on the environment. Any future physical improvement or mitigation project identified in the LHMP will be subject to separate environmental review under CEQA, as applicable.

LEGAL REVIEW
The Deputy City Attorney was consulted and reviewed the proposed General Plan Safety Element amendment and associated City Council resolution for consistency with applicable legal requirements.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft CC Resolution

2. PC Reso #1363

3. 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Report Prepared By: Coordinated with:

Candice Bowcock, Planning Manager Lisa Kranitz, Deputy City Attorney

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. XX-XX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA,

APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN SAFETY ELEMENT TO INCORPORATE THE 2026 CITY OF LA VERNE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN

BY REFERENCE
WHEREAS, the City of La Verne has adopted the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which identifies natural hazards affecting the City and establishes strategies and actions to reduce long-term risks to life and property; and WHEREAS, Assembly Bill 2140 (AB 2140, 2006) provides an incentive for cities and counties to incorporate a federally approved local hazard mitigation plan into the Safety Element of their General Plan; and
WHEREAS, AB 2140 provides that incorporation of a local hazard mitigation plan into the General Plan Safety Element may allow the Legislature to authorize an increased State share of eligible disaster-related costs; and
WHEREAS, the proposed General Plan amendment incorporates the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by reference into the General Plan Safety Element; and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendment does not change land use designations, development densities, zoning, or authorize development; and WHEREAS, on September 9, 2026, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing and adopted Planning Commission Resolution No.1363 recommending approval of the General Plan Safety Element amendment; and WHEREAS, on October 5, 2026, the City Council conducted a duly noticed public hearing and approved the 2026 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan; and WHEREAS, on October 19, 2026, the City Council conducted a duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, Planning Commission recommendation, and all written and oral testimony regarding the proposed amendment; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the proposed amendment is consistent with the purpose and intent of the General Plan and supports existing policies related to public safety, emergency preparedness, natural hazards, and community resiliency; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the proposed General Plan Safety Element amendment is exempt from further environmental review pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the “common sense” exemption, because the amendment incorporates the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
Resolution No. XX-XX 2
reference and does not authorize development, construction, or other physical changes to the environment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Verne as follows:

Section 1. Incorporation of Recitals. The Recitals set forth above are incorporated herein as findings of fact.

Section 2. Findings: Based upon the staff report, the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, the Planning Commission recommendation, and the information presented at the public hearing, the City Council finds as follows:

A. The 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan identifies natural hazards affecting the City, evaluates community vulnerabilities, and establishes strategies and actions to reduce long-term risks to life, property, the environment, and the local economy.

B. Incorporating the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by reference into the General Plan Safety Element will strengthen coordination between the City’s long-range planning, hazard mitigation, and emergency preparedness efforts.

C. The proposed amendment supports the goals and policies of the General Plan related to public safety, emergency preparedness, natural hazards, and community resiliency and is therefore consistent with the purpose and intent of the General Plan.

D. The proposed amendment is limited to incorporating the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by reference and does not change land use designations, development densities, zoning, or authorize development.

E. Incorporation of the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan into the General Plan Safety Element is consistent with Assembly Bill 2140and may provide the City with additional eligibility for State disaster-related financial assistance.

F. The amendment is consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan and supports coordination between the City’s long-range planning, hazard mitigation, and emergency preparedness efforts.

G. The Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing on September 9, 2026, considered the proposed amendment and public testimony, and recommended approval of the amendment to the City Council.

Section 3. Environmental Review. The City Council hereby finds that the amendment to the General Plan Safety Element to incorporate the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) by reference is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense

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Resolution No. XX-XX 3
Exemption) and 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies) of the State CEQA Guidelines.

The amendment is a planning-level action that incorporates the LHMP, a planning document identifying natural hazard risks and potential mitigation strategies, into the General Plan by reference. The amendment does not authorize or commit the City to any specific development, construction, physical improvement, or future mitigation action. It can therefore be seen with certainty that approval of the General Plan Safety Element amendment will not result in a significant effect on the environment. Any future physical improvement or mitigation project identified in the LHMP will be subject to separate environmental review under CEQA, as applicable. None of the exceptions under Section 15300.2 of the State CEQA Guidelines apply.

Section 4. General Plan Amendment. The City Council hereby approves the amendment to the City of La Verne General Plan Safety Element incorporating the 2026 City of La Verne Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by reference, as set forth in Exhibit “A,” attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 5. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect on the 31st day after adoption.

Section 6. The Mayor shall sign and the Deputy City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and thereupon the same shall take effect and be in force.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this19th day of October, 2026. ______________________________________
Mayor Tim Hepburn
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Debra Fritz, CMC, Deputy City Clerk

CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the foregoing [Resolution No. XX-XX] was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of La Verne at a meeting thereof held on the 19th day of October, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

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Resolution No. XX-XX 4
____________________________________
Debra Fritz, CMC, Deputy City Clerk

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
City of La Verne 2026
Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan Draft
Due to the size the document, the Plan
can be viewed at laverneca.gov/lhmp
Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
City of La Verne,City Council
Agenda Report
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: JR Ranells, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT WITH LA VERNE

FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION REGARDING PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATION PAY.

SUMMARY
The City of La Verne and the La Verne Firefighters' Association (LVFA) have negotiated a Side Letter Agreement establishing an interim compensation arrangement for firefighters selected by the City to attend paramedic training. The agreement addresses the compensation and classification placement of these employees upon successfully obtaining their paramedic certifications while the parties continue negotiations for a successor Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The Side Letter provides a defined process for placing newly certified paramedics into the Firefighter Paramedic classification at an equivalent Step, representing an increase based on the benchmark of 15% of Firefighter Step 5.

RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council approve the Side Letter Agreement with the La Verne Firefighters Association regarding paramedic compensation and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.

DISCUSSION
The current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City and La Verne Firefighters Association (LVFA), approved in December 2022, established a classification-based compensation structure for paramedics. As the parties approach negotiations for a successor MOU, both recognize the need to evaluate the existing structure and consider alternative approaches to paramedic compensation.

The City anticipates sending approximately two firefighters to paramedic training in early 2027.

In anticipation of this operational need, the parties have negotiated a Side Letter establishing how these employees will be compensated upon successful completion of their training, without predetermining the outcome of broader labor negotiations.

The key provisions of the Side Letter Agreement include:
• Applicability: The agreement applies only to firefighters selected, sponsored, and sent to paramedic training by the City after the Side Letter takes effect and before successor paramedic compensation terms become effective.

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Consideration of Side Letter Agreement with La Verne Firefighters Association Regarding Paramedic Certification Pay., Page 2
• Selection and Training: The Fire Chief retains authority to determine whether employees will be sent to paramedic training, the number of employees selected, the selection criteria, and the timing of training.
• Classification Upon Certification: Upon successful completion of paramedic training and receipt of all required certifications, licenses, and accreditations, an eligible firefighter will be placed in the Firefighter Paramedic classification.
• Salary Step Placement: Employees transitioning into the Firefighter Paramedic classification will be placed at the corresponding salary step within that classification. For example, a Firefighter at Step 3 will transition to Firefighter Paramedic Step 3, using the salary schedule in effect at the time of placement. Exhibit A to the Side Letter identifies the applicable step-placement methodology and provides current salary amounts for reference.
• Future Compensation Structure: The parties acknowledge that alternative paramedic compensation models are more appropriately considered through comprehensive negotiations for a successor MOU. The Side Letter does not establish or commit either party to a particular compensation model.
• Preservation of Bargaining Positions: The agreement expressly preserves both parties' ability to negotiate all aspects of future paramedic compensation, including classifications, wages, benefits, specialty compensation, and related economic provisions. Neither party waives its bargaining positions or rights through approval of the Side Letter.
• No Precedent or Modification of Existing MOU: The Side Letter is intended to address a specific interim circumstance and does not establish a binding past practice or precedent. All other provisions of the existing MOU remain unchanged. • Termination and Successor MOU: The Side Letter is effective upon City Council ratification and continues subject to the terms of the existing MOU and applicable law.

Once successor MOU provisions addressing paramedic compensation become effective, those provisions supersede the Side Letter, subject to protections for employees already placed in the classification or attending paramedic training unless the successor terms expressly provide otherwise.

The proposed Side Letter provides a practical interim approach that allows the Fire Department to plan for future paramedic training needs while providing employees with clarity regarding classification and compensation upon certification. At the same time, it protects the Parties ability to negotiate a comprehensive paramedic compensation structure through the successor MOU process.

FISCAL ANALYSIS
Under the current MOU, a firefighter who successfully earns their paramedic certification is promoted into the Firefighter Paramedic classification provided there is a vacancy in that classification. Per the 2022 MOU, the Firefighter Paramedic classification's Steps are 15% of the Firefighter Step 5 position higher than the equivalent Firefighter classification step. Per Article 8. J. 1. of the MOU, "A promoted employee shall receive an increase in salary equal to the entrance salary of the promotional position or the next higher salary level provided." For the two Firefighters promoted in April 2025, they were placed in the higher Firefighter Paramedic classification at a step that was 5% higher than their current salary. In February 2026 a third

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Consideration of Side Letter Agreement with La Verne Firefighters Association Regarding Paramedic Certification Pay., Page 3
Firefighter was also promoted under the same approach; however, the City received a grievance on the process, which also included the two previously promoted Firefighter Paramedics.

Under the proposed Side Letter, new promotions into the Firefighter Paramedic classification will promote into the same step but in the higher classification, effectively 15% of the top Step Firefighter higher than their previous step. Based on the July 2026 Salary Schedule, the 15% of the top Step Firefighter amount is $17,232.

As part of the resolution of the grievance, the City settled compensation disputes with the three Firefighter Paramedic employees. As part of that resolution, the Parties disagree about the correct interpretation of the MOU, but to avoid the cost and uncertainty of further proceedings, they have agreed on a settlement without either Party conceding its position. For the two employees promoted in April 2025, the negotiated compromise will begin with the pay period starting January 11, 2026, and for the employee promoted in February 2026, the negotiated compromise will begin with the pay period beginning January 25, 2026. The settled total compensation amount considering an October 3, 2026, pay period is approximately $37,862.

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Not applicable.

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney has reviewed and approved of this item.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Side Letter - Future Paramedic Compensation

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Side Letter Agreement Between the City of La Verne and the La Verne Firefighters' Association Regarding Interim Paramedic Compensation This Side Letter Agreement ("Side Letter") is entered into by and between the City of La Verne ("City") and the La Verne Firefighters' Association ("LVFA"), collectively the "Parties." WHEREAS, the City and LVFA are parties to a Memorandum of Understanding entered into on December 19, 2022, for a term of forty-eight (48) months from that date ("MOU"), governing wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment for LVFA-represented employees; and WHEREAS, the City anticipates that operational needs may require it to send approximately two (2) LVFA-represented employees to paramedic training in early 2027, and the wishes to establish the compensation that will apply to those employees until a successor MOU is effective; and WHEREAS, the Parties wish to give those employees certainty about their compensation upon certification, while preserving the City's management rights and each Party's bargaining positions for a successor MOU; and
WHEREAS, the Parties do not intend through this Side Letter to predetermine or resolve those negotiations, establish an entitlement to additional compensation beyond that expressly provided in this Side Letter, or otherwise alter the existing classification and compensation provisions of the MOU.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties agree as follows:

Section 1. Covered Trainees
(a) This Side Letter applies only to an LVFA-represented employee in the Firefighter classification whom the City selects, sponsors, and sends to paramedic training on or after the effective date of this Side Letter and before Successor Terms, as defined in Section 4(b), take effect (a "Covered Trainee").
(b) Selection. The Fire Chief shall establish, and the Fire Department shall document in writing, the process for determining which employees the City will sponsor and send to paramedic training.

Section 2. Placement Upon Certification
(a) Qualifying Event. A Covered Trainee completes the "Qualifying Event" when the employee has submitted proof to Fire Administration that he or she has successfully obtained all certifications, licenses, and accreditations required to work as a paramedic for the City. (b) Placement. Upon the Qualifying Event, i.e., employee has submitted proof to Fire Administration that he or she has successfully obtained all certifications, licenses, and accreditations required to work as a paramedic for the City, the City shall move the Covered Trainee from the Firefighter classification to the Firefighter Paramedic classification effective the first day of the first full pay period following the Qualifying Event.

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(c) Step. The Covered Trainee shall be placed at the same numerical Firefighter Paramedic step shown in Exhibit A for the employee's Firefighter step at the time of placement, at the rate in the City's salary schedule in effect on the date of placement. For example, a Covered Trainee who was at Firefighter Step 3 at the time of the Qualifying Event shall be placed at Firefighter Paramedic Step

3. (d) Probation and Anniversary Date. Placement in the Firefighter Paramedic classification begins a new probationary period under Article XIII of the MOU. The Covered Trainee's anniversary date for step advancement shall be the effective date of placement under Section 2(b). (e) Documentation. The Covered Trainee shall give the Fire Chief written proof of the certifications, licenses, and accreditations required under Section 2(a). The City shall process the placement on the first regular payroll after receiving that proof otherwise on the next regular payroll. (f) Processing Delay. If the placement is processed after its effective date, the City shall pay the difference as a regular retroactive pay adjustment at the new step, no later than the payroll on which the placement is first processed. A delay caused by the employee's late submission of documentation does not move the effective date earlier than the first full pay period after the City receives that documentation.
(g) Unsuccessful Completion. A Covered Trainee who does not complete the Qualifying Event is not entitled to placement or compensation under this Side Letter. That employee remains in their current classification and step, subject to step increases within that classification, subject to the MOU.
(h) Maintaining Certification. After placement, the Covered Trainee must maintain the certifications, licenses, and accreditations required for the Firefighter Paramedic classification.

Loss of any of the required certifications, licenses or accreditations shall be addressed under the MOU, City rules, and applicable law.

Section 3. Management Rights / LVFA/Employee Rights
(a) Nothing in this Side Letter limits the City's management rights under the MOU and applicable law or the LVFA’s rights under the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act (Government Code section 3500 et seq.) or an employee’s rights under the Firefighter’s Procedural Bill of Rights Act (Government Code section 3250 et seq.) and applicable law.
(b) This Side Letter does not obligate the City to send any employee to paramedic training.

Section 4. Successor MOU
(a) Preferred Forum. The Parties agree that paramedic classifications, compensation, eligibility, assignment requirements, and related issues shall be discussed in negotiations for a successor MOU. Nothing in this Side Letter requires either Party to accept any particular proposal in those negotiations.
(b) Supersession. Upon the effective date of a successor MOU that addresses paramedic compensation, or of terms addressing paramedic compensation that the City implements following completion of applicable impasse procedures (either, "Successor Terms"), the

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Agenda Packet - October 19, 2026
applicable Successor Terms shall supersede this Side Letter prospectively from the effective date of such Successor Terms.
(c) Placements Already Made. A placement made under Section 2 before Successor Terms take effect shall remain in effect.
(d) Trainees in Progress. A Covered Trainee who was sent to paramedic training before Successor Terms take effect, but who completes the Qualifying Event afterward, shall receive the placement in Section 2.

Section 5. No Precedent or Past Practice
This Side Letter addresses the unique circumstances described in its recitals. It shall not establish a binding past practice or precedent concerning paramedic compensation, classifications, specialty pay, educational incentives, or any other form of compensation. It shall not be construed as an admission by either Party regarding the proper interpretation of the MOU.

Section 6. Preservation of Bargaining Positions
(a) Except for the commitments expressly contained in this Side Letter, neither Party waives, modifies, or limits any proposal, counterproposal, argument, position, right, or defense it may have in negotiations for a successor MOU.
(b) The step placement in Section 2(c) and Exhibit A shall not be construed as an agreement by either Party on the structure or value of paramedic compensation in a successor MOU. It shall not prevent the City from considering the fiscal impact of paramedic compensation together with wages, benefits, retirement costs, specialty pays, classifications, and other economic provisions.

Nothing shall prevent either side from using the step placement in Section 2(c) and or Exhibit A during bargaining for a Successor MOU.

Section 7. No Other Modification of the MOU
Except as expressly provided in this Side Letter, the existing classifications, salary schedules, specialty compensation, assignment procedures, and other provisions of the MOU remain unchanged. Nothing in this Side Letter eliminates, consolidates, converts, or otherwise modifies any existing classification or other term of the MOU.

Section 8. Term
This Side Letter shall be in full force and effect from the date of its ratification by the La Verne City Council, on or about October 19, 2026, which ratification shall include authorizing the City Manager to execute it, through the expiration of the MOU. After the MOU expires, this Side Letter shall continue only to the same extent that the terms of the expired MOU continue under applicable law, and may be modified or superseded by a successor MOU, or another written agreement of the Parties.

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Section 9. Entire Agreement
This Side Letter is the entire agreement between the Parties on its subject matter. It supersedes all prior drafts of this Side Letter. No amendment is effective unless in writing and signed by authorized representatives of both Parties.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Side Letter as of the date of the last signature below.

CITY OF LA VERNE
___________________________________________ ______________________________ Ken Domer, City Manager Date

LA VERNE FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION
___________________________________________ ______________________________ Conner Nobbs, President Date

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Exhibit A – Step Placement Crosswalk
A Covered Trainee moves from their Firefighter step to the same-numbered Firefighter Paramedic step. For example, an employee at Firefighter Step 1 is placed at Firefighter Paramedic Step 1, and an employee at Firefighter Step 4 is placed at Firefighter Paramedic Step 4.

Firefighter step
at placement
Placed at
Firefighter
Paramedic step
Firefighter
(annual)
Benchmark (15%
of Firefighter
Step 5)
Firefighter
Paramedic
(annual)
Step 1 Step 1 $94,510 + $17,232 $111,742
Step 2 Step 2 $99,236 + $17,232 $116,467
Step 3 Step 3 $104,198 + $17,232 $121,429
Step 4 Step 4 $109,407 + $17,232 $126,639
Step 5 Step 5 $114,878 + $17,232 $132,109
Annual amounts are from the City's Full Time Salary Chart effective September 6, 2026, and are shown for reference only. Placement is step for step. The rate paid is the rate in the salary schedule in effect on the date of placement, as provided in Section 2(c).

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La Verne City CouncilOctober 19, 2026

La Verne City Council
October 19, 2026