LAGUNA NIGUEL CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting
December 20, 2022
6:00 p.m. - Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL - Mayor Rains called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Mayor Sandy Rains - Present
Mayor Pro Tem Rischi Paul Sharma - Present
Council Member Ray Gennawey- Present
Council Member Kelly Jennings - Present
Council Member Stephanie Oddo - Present
CLOSED SESSION
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
There were no public comments on the closed session item.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Significant Exposure to Litigation Pursuant to Paragraphs 2 of Subdivision (d) and (e) of Government Code Section 54956.9: [City Center Project - SW Regional Council of Carpenters, Supporters Alliance for Environmental Responsibility - CEQA certification]
City Council conducted the Closed Session.
Mayor Rains called the regular meeting back to order at 7:00 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Neumeyer reported there was no reportable action taken.
INVOCATION - James Wenger, Grace Church
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Council Member Gennawey
PRESENTATIONS
1. Proclamation Condemning the Islamic Republic of Iran Mayor Rains presented Aria Dehdari, Hengameh Abraham, and Milad Davaran with a proclamation condemning the Islamic Republic of Iran. Ms. Abraham and Mr. Davaran spoke on behalf of the Iranian community on this important human rights issue.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 5 December 20, 2022 Presentation to Chief of Police Services Virgil Asuncion in Recognition of His Service with the City of Laguna Niguel
Mayor Rains presented outgoing Chief of Police Services Virgil Asuncion with a certificate recognizing his years of service to the City of Laguna Niguel. She thanked him on behalf of the City Council for his dedication and wished him well on his new journey. Mayor Rains also provided an opportunity for Mayor Pro tem Sharma and Council member Jennings to both also say a few words given their time spent on the City Council. Both thanked Captain Asuncion for his dedicated service to the City and wished him well in his new role
3. Introduction of New Chief of Police Services Isaac Flores Mayor Rains introduced newly appointed Chief of Police Services Isaac Flores and presented him with a City pin. She thanked him on behalf of the City Council for his willingness to serve the City in this capacity. Mayor Rains also provided an opportunity for Council members Oddo and Gennawey to both also say a few words given their new term on the City Council. Both welcomed and congratulated new Chief Flores and wished him well in his new role.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Hengameh Abraham, Mahsa Townsend, Negar V., Melissa Hashem, Bayaneh Nikpour, Mona Sedaqat, Niusha Ghirazi, Aria Dehdari, Pezhmun Ghiassi, Melika B., Ed Nemani, Farhad Mafie, Mark Mendizza, Tannaz, and Anonymous spoke in support of the proclamation condemning the Islamic Republic of Iran.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Oddo pulled Item No. 3, Council Members Gennawey and Jennings pulled Item No. 5, and Council Member Gennawey pulled Item No. 6 for discussion.
A MOTION was made by Council Member Gennawey, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma, to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar as presented.
Motion carried 5-0.
Warrants of December 20, 2022
Approved as written.
2. Payroll Summary Register
Approved as written.
Measure M2 Annual Expenditure Report for FY 2021-22
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council:
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 5 December 20, 2022
1. Adopt Resolution No. 2022-1415 (Attachment A), Adopting the Measure M2 Expenditure Report for Fiscal Year 2021-2022; and
2. Authorize the City's Finance Director to sign and file the report with the Orange County Transportation Authority.
ITEM PULLED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
3. Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting on December 5, 2022, and the Regular City Council Meeting on December 6, 2022
Council Member Oddo and Gennawey stated they would abstain from approving the Special City Council Meeting Minutes for December 5, as they were yet not on the dais for the meeting.
A MOTION was made by Council Member Jennings, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma, to approve as written.
Motion carried 3-2, with Council Members Gennawey and Oddo abstaining.
5. Appointment of City Council Liaisons to Regional Agency Boards and City Commissions, Committees, and Boards
Council Member Gennawey requested that he be appointed to the Youth Committee given his past experience as a Youth Committee member and given his work with youth through his professional involvement with the District Attorney's Office. He also highlighted that he was selected for the least number of appointments of all members of the City Council. He asked if Council Member Oddo was willing to step down from her Youth Committee appointment given this. Council Member Oddo stated that she enjoyed working with youth, given her professional involvement in education and her experience as a parent, and that she would like to keep her appointment. Council Member Jennings expressed that she would be willing to cede her appointment to Council Member Gennawey. Council Member Gennawey stated that Council Member Jennings should keep her appointment to the Youth Committee for the purposes of continuity.
Council Member Jennings stated that she was not given the opportunity to express which Committees she was interested in serving on. Mayor Rains expressed that she did indeed reach out to Council Members for input on which Committees Council Members would be interested in. She respectfully asked that her decisions be approved as written.
A MOTION was made by Council Member Gennawey, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma, to:
1. Appoint Council Representatives to Regional Agency Board as identified in Attachment A; and,
2. Appoint Council Liaisons to the City Commissions, Committees, and Boards as identified in Attachment B.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 5 December 20, 2022 Motion carried 5-0.
Approval of Purchase and Installation Agreement with Shaw Sports Turf California, Inc. for the Synthetic Sports Turf Surface Replacement at Chapparosa Park
Council Member Gennawey asked for more clarification on the analysis done to reach the conclusion that the soccer field had reached the end of its useful life. Public Works Director Scott clarified that the City engaged a licensed landscape architect who inspected the turf and concluded that the turf was in poor condition. Council Member Gennawey asked for clarification of where the funding for this was coming from and Public Works Director Scott clarified that funding was coming from the American Rescue Plan.
A MOTION was made by Council Member Gennawey, seconded by Council Member Jennings, to:
1. Approve the Purchase and Installation Agreement with Shaw Sports Turf California, Inc. for the Synthetic Sports Turf Surface Replacement at Chapparosa Park in the amount of $536,464;
2. Authorize the Public Works Director/City Engineer to process change orders in an amount not to exceed 20% of the total contract for $107,293, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $643,757, if needed;
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Purchase and Installation Agreement for the Synthetic Sports Turf Surface Replacement at Chapparosa Park, with Shaw Sports Turf California Inc., subject to the City Attorney making non-substantive changes; and,
4. Authorize the Public Works Director/City Engineer to execute the Notice of Completion at the conclusion of construction.
Motion carried 5-0.
OTHER BUSINESS/COUNCIL REPORTS
Council Reports
Council Member Gennawey thanked all the residents that attended the meeting to speak in support of the proclamation condemning the Islamic Republic of Iran. He reminded everyone to speak to their children during this holiday season about the dangers of fentanyl.
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma expressed that he was pleased to see many different ethnic backgrounds stand for the ideals of the pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness.
He welcomed newly appointed Chief of Police Services Isaac Flores to the team and wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 5 December 20, 2022 Council Member Oddo stated that she was proud of the City Council for the proclamation condemning the Islamic Republic of Iran and expressed her support for the residents who came out tonight. She concluded by wishing everyone a happy holiday.
Council Member Jennings thanked everyone for attending the meeting and expressed her support for those who spoke in favor of the proclamation condemning the Islamic Republic of Iran. She thanked City Staff for the Holiday Parade and the Chanukah Celebration and welcomed newly appointed Chief of Police Services Isaac Flores. She thanked outgoing Chief of Police Services Virgil Asuncion for his service to the City and City Staff for all their hard work this past year. She concluded by wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
Mayor Rains welcomed newly appointed Chief of Polices Services Isaac Flores and thanked Finance Director Hendrickson for his service to the City, as this was his last meeting before moving onto a new role with another agency. She wished the Jewish community Happy Chanukah and thanked the Iranian community for standing up for what is right. She highlighted two local businesses, Octo Café and Marketplace and the Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) Resale Boutique, as part of her 'Mayor's Mentions' and encouraged everyone to frequent both establishments.
2. City Manager/Department Reports
City Manager Letourneau thanked Finance Director Hendrickson for his hard work and dedication to the City and wished him the best in his future endeavors.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Rains adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 8:27 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Thy Merritt
Deputy City Clerk
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 5 December 20, 2022
LAGUNA NIGUEL CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the Special City Council Meetings
January 11-12, 2023 - 4:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Rains called the Special City Council meeting on January 11, 2023, to order at 4:02 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Sandy Rains - Present
Mayor Pro Tem Rischi Paul Sharma - Present
Council Member Ray Gennawey - Present
Council Member Kelly Jennings - Present
Council Member Stephanie Oddo - Present
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Council Member Jennings
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
There were no public comments.
CITY COUNCIL
Conduct Interviews to Fill Two-Year Term Vacancies, Unless Otherwise Specified, for the Senior Citizens Committee; Investment, Banking and Audit Committee; and Planning Commission.
The City Council conducted interviews for the following applicants on January 11, 2023, to till two-year term vacancies, unless otherwise specified, for the Senior Citizens Committee (5); Investment, Banking and Audit Committee (3); and Planning Commission (3):
Senior Citizens Committee (5 vacancies)
Abrams, Ann 4:05 p.m.
Garner, Thomas 4:15 p.m. (incumbent)
Glezakos, Agathi 4:25 p.m.
Hayes, Kathleen 4:35 p.m. (incumbent)
Morris, Steve 4:45 p.m. (absent)
Mouton, Patty 4:55 p.m. (incumbent) (absent)
Namazi, Susan 5:05 p.m. (incumbent)
Investment, Banking and Audit Committee (3 vacancies)
Kratochvil, Robert 5:15 p.m.
Latimer, Sean 5:25 p.m. (incumbent)
McElroy, Kevin 5:35 p.m. (incumbent)
Vaziri, Sara 5:45 p.m. (withdrew)
City Council Special Minutes Page 1 of 6 January 11-12, 2023 Planning Commission (3 vacancies)
Aamodt, Kellie
Aeh, Ryan
Alpert, Cheryl 5:15 p.m.
Burkhalter, Ben 5:25 p.m
Caldwell, Melissa 6:35 p.m
Crew, Melissa 6:45 p.m
Ferlauto, Karen 1:55 p.m.
Flohr, Cheryl
Flohr, Mark
Green, Roger 7:25 p.m. (incumbent)
Kotkin, Katherine 7:35 p.m.
Lovejoy, Elizabeth 7:45 p.m.
Winstead, Stephanie
The City Council concluded the interviews to fill two-year term vacancies, unless otherwise specified I, for the Senior Citizens Committee (5); Investment, Banking and Audit Committee (3); and Planning Commission (3).
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Rains adjourned the January 11, 2023 meeting at 8:25 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Rains called the Special City Council meeting on January 12, 2023, to order at 4:11 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Sandy Rains - Present
Mayor Pro Tem Rischi Paul Sharma - Present
Council Member Ray Gennawey - Present
Council Member Kelly Jennings - Present
Council Member Stephanie Oddo - Present
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Council Member Oddo
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
There were no public comments.
CITY COUNCIL
Conduct Interviews to Fill Two-Year Term Vacancies, Unless Otherwise Specified, for the Parks and Recreation Commission; Traffic and Transportation Commission; and Military Support Committee.
City Council Special Minutes Page 2 of 6 January 11-12, 2023 The City Council interviewed the following individuals on January 12, 2023, to fill two-year term vacancies, unless otherwise specified, for the Parks and Recreation Commission (3); Traffic and Transportation Commission (3); and, Military Support Committee (13):
Parks and Recreation Commission (3 vacancies)
Bartolome, Derek 4:05 p.m. (incumbent)
Biondolillo, Stephen 4:15 p.m.
Clement, Missy 4:25 p.m.
Feinberg, Sheri
Gerry, Mike 4:45 p.m.
Loughrey, Darin 4:55 p.m. (incumbent)
Ray, Kara 5:05 p.m. (withdrew)
Shenoi, Noel 5:15 p.m. (absent)
Smith, Greg 5:25 p.m.
Traffic and Transportation Commission (2 vacancies)
Cashion, Robin 5:35 p.m.
Clements, Gregory 5:45 p.m. (incumbent)
Falk, James 5:55 p.m.
Johns, Foster "Gene" 6:05 p.m. (incumbent)
Kinney, John 6:15 p.m. (incumbent
Military Support Committee (13 vacancies)
Baker, Janice 6:25 p.m.
Betonte, Amy 6:35 p.m. (incumbent)
Boelter, Ralph 6:45 p.m.
Bowman, Timothy 6:55 p.m. (incumbent)
Garnreiter, Debra 7:05 p.m. (incumbent) (withdrew)
Gerard, Michael 7:15 p.m. (incumbent)
Glantz, James 7:25 p.m. (incumbent) (withdrew)
7:35 p.m. (incumbent) (withdrew)
Huskiney. John 7:45 p.m. (incumbent)
Kling, Christopher 7:55 p.m.
Logan, Samantha 8:05 p.m. (withdrew)
Ulrich, John 8:15 p.m. (incumbent)
Weiss, David 8:25 p.m. (incumbent) (withdrew)
The City Council reviewed candidate submittals and interview notes, held discussion, and appointed the following individuals to serve on City Commissions and Committees each for a two-year term ending December 31, 2024:
City Council Special Minutes Page 3 of 6 January 11-12, 2023 A MOTION was made by Council member Gennawey, seconded by Council member Jennings to approve the following appointments:
Investment, Banking and Audit Committee
Kellie Aamodt
Sean Latimer (Incumbent)
Kevin McElroy (Incumbent)
Motion carried 5-0.
A MOTION was made by Council member Oddo, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma to approve the following appointments:
Planning Commission
Roger Green (Incumbent)
Karen Ferlauto
Kathleen Hayes
Motion carried 5-0.
A MOTION was made by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma, seconded by Council member Oddo to approve the following appointments:
Parks and Recreation Commission
Derek Bartolome (Incumbent)
Stephen Biondolillo
Darin Loughrey (Incumbent)
Motion carried 5-0.
A MOTION was made by Council member Jennings, seconded by Council member Gennawey to approve the following appointments:
Traffic and Transportation Commission
Gregory Clements (Incumbent)
Foster "Gene" Johns (Incumbent)
Motion carried 5-0
A MOTION was made by Council member Oddo, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma to approve the following appointments:
Traffic and Transportation Commission
Robin Cashion
Motion carried 3-2 (Rains/Sharma/Oddo - YES; Gennawey/Jennings - NO).
City Council Special Minutes Page 4 of 6 January 11-12, 2023 A MOTION was made by Council member Jennings, seconded by Council member Gennawey to approve the following appointments:
Senior Citizens Committee
Thomas Garner (Incumbent)
Agathi Glezakos
Patty Mouton (Incumbent)
Susan Namazi (Incumbent)
Motion carried 5-0.
A MOTION was made by Council member Jennings, seconded by Council member Oddo to approve the following appointments:
Senior Citizens Committee
Ann Abrams, Alternate
Motion carried 5-0.
A MOTION was made by Council member Oddo, seconded by Council member Gennawey to approve the following appointments:
Senior Citizens Committee
Gregory Smith, Alternate
Motion carried 5-0.
A MOTION was made by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma, seconded by Council member Gennawey to approve the following appointments:
Military Support Committee
Janice Baker
Amy Betonte (Incumbent)
Ralph Boelter
Timothy Bowman (Incumbent)
Melissa Crew
Cheryl Flohr
Michael Gerard (Incumbent)
John Humphrey (Incumbent)
Christopher Kling
Elizabeth Lovejoy
John Ulrich (Incumbent)
Motion carried 5-0.
City Council Special Minutes Page 5 of 6 January 11-12, 2023
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Rains adjourned the January 12, 2023 meeting at 8:58 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by:
Justin J. Martin
Deputy City Manager
City Council Special Minutes Page 6 of 6 January 11-12, 2023
LAGUNA NIGUEL CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting
January 24, 2023
9:00 a.m. - Special Meeting
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL - Mayor Rains called the Special City Council Meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
Mayor Sandy Rains - Present
Mayor Pro Tem Rischi Paul Sharma - Present
Council Member Ray Gennawey- Absent
Council Member Kelly Jennings - Present
Council Member Stephanie Oddo - Present
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Mayor Pro Tem Sharma
WELCOME BY MAYOR RAINS
Mayor Rains welcomed everyone in attendance, stating that today's workshop was an opportunity for the City Council to brainstorm and hear feedback from residents on ideas about the future of Laguna Niguel. Mayor Rains stated that the inaugural Strategic Plan was adopted back in 2019, and today is an opportunity for us to bringforth ideas for consideration in updating the Strategic Plan while also considering ideas and feedback from the community.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Paula Cosenza spoke on behalf of the realtor community and asked the City Council to consider workforce housing and homeownership to allow younger residents to reside in Laguna Niguel.
Mark Flohr expressed concern for public safety related to an increase in crimes along several trails in Laguna Niguel. Mr. Flohr expressed that the City, in addition to common policing practices, should implement more LED streetlights and monitored cameras near trailheads to further deter criminal activity.
Alex Sizuka expressed concern regarding home invasion and robberies in Laguna Niguel communities located along community trails. Mr. Sizuka expressed a need for collaboration with other public safety agencies in South Orange County as well as additional communications from the City.
Robin Frankinfield, on behalf of the Laguna Heights Homeowners Association, expressed concerns for public safety along trails in the City and stated her opposition to the proposed housing development in San Juan Capistrano, bordering Laguna Niguel.
Melissa Waters discussed the need for the City to educate residents on environmental issues, greenhouse gas emissions, and the Inflation Reduction Act.
City Council Special Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 7 January 24, 2023 Jonathan Light discussed the need to educate the public regarding the Inflation Reduction Act.
Kara Ray discussed the need for future planning and innovation in the City.
Elizabeth Andrade, CEO of Family Assistance Ministries, spoke on the City's ongoing commitment to assist residents in need and the need for wrap-around services across the county.
Scott Alevy, on behalf of the Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce, spoke on the success of the Laguna Niguel Shop and Dine Program and the potential creation of a sister city program in Laguna Niguel.
John Balman expressed concern for electric bicycle safety in Laguna Niguel.
John Frank discussed the need for the City to reinstitute the Neighborhood Watch Program and enhance electric bicycle safety. City Manager Letourneau stated that the Neighborhood Watch Program in Laguna Niguel is active and is a priority for Laguna Niguel Police Services to expand the program. Mayor Rains spoke about her new Mayor's Neighborhood Walk initiative with a focus on educating residents about creating a Neighborhood Watch Program.
Cheryl Frank discussed the need for fiscal responsibility as we approach a state budget deficit and the need for proactive planning regarding the Chet Holifield Federal Building property.
Aniko Sherry discussed the need for public-private partnerships with the City and homeowners associations to improve the slopes and roads.
Lori McGuire, on behalf of McGuire ReMax and the Pamilla Homeowners Association, spoke about the need to improve public safety along city trails.
Theresa Shickling, on behalf of Family Assistance Ministries Resale Boutique, expressed gratitude for the City's support and the need for additional housing options in the City.
BRAINSTORMING ON FUTURE GOALS
a) City Council Shares Ideas On Projects, Processes And Procedures They Would Like To See Implemented and/or Changed
Mayor Rains asked each Council Member to provide an update on revisions they would like to see made to each strategic plan goal.
Goal #1, Public Safety
Council Member Jennings expressed her support for the well-designed strategies included in Goal #1 of the Strategic Plan and emphasized her commitment to providing additional resources as determined by Police Services.
City Council Special Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 7 January 24, 2023 Council Member Oddo expressed her support for the Neighborhood Watch Program and added that she would like a new strategy supporting bicycle safety. Council Member Oddo discussed the active transportation bicycle safety pilot on Heather Ridge Road and the importance of infrastructure improvements related to bicycle safety. Council Member Oddo discussed her meeting with Congressman Mike Levin and the congressional district funds that may be allocated to Laguna Niguel. Council Member Oddo expressed how she would like feedback from her Council Member colleagues on how this potential funding may be utilized. Council Member Oddo discussed her research on the California Insurance Commission and homeowners Insurance rates and expressed her desire to have the City educate residents on ways to reduce homeowners' insurance rates. Council Member Oddo discussed the homeowner's insurance gap that exists in California for homeowner association condo units and the financial liability that it poses for residents living in HOA condo units. Council Member Oddo expressed her desire for the City to advocate that the State Insurance Commission close the insurance gap so HOA Condo owners could obtain insurance.
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma discussed his work with the Sheriffs Department to receive ongoing communications regarding crime data in the City. Mayor Pro Tem Sharma also discussed the City's trail system and the potential for the creation of additional economic development opportunities through strategic use.
Mayor Rains discussed the need for increased communications from Police Services to the community. Mayor Rains discussed the need for the City to conduct a study for Emergency Services as the City undergoes additional economic and community development. Mayor Rains emphasized how the study could be utilized to make data- driven decisions in future emergency service planning. Mayor Rains discussed working with the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) and Orange County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) to distribute safety plan information to residents and homeowner's associations.
Mayor Rains discussed her new neighborhood walks program and informed residents that they could contact city staff to sign up their neighborhood to schedule a walk.
Goal #2 Fiscal Sustainability
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma discussed the need for the City to embrace its financial independence from the state and county and develop an economic development initiative that promotes the City's identity and cultural heritage, including the use of the trail system.
Council Member Oddo stated that the City needs to keep economic development in mind when making decisions and discussed the need for the City to develop an identity in its economic development plan. Council Member Oddo discussed the importance of taking a data-driven approach to economic development and the responsibility of the City Council to create new jobs.
Council Member Jennings read a statement by Council Member Gennawey related to Goal #1 Public Safety, and Goal #2 Fiscal Sustainability. (Statement attached) Council Member Jennings concurred with the statements made by her colleagues and commended the City's economic development team for adding new businesses.
City Council Special Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 7 January 24, 2023 Mayor Rains discussed the City's unfunded pension obligation, the steps the City Council has taken to pay down the unfunded pension liability, and the need to advocate with CaPERS to hold them accountable for taxpayer dollars. Mayor Rains discussed the takeaways from the Sea Country Festival Ad Hoc Committee that she and Council Member Jennings attended. Mayor Rains discussed her attendance at the Us Mayors Conference and advocated in favor of applying for federal grant funding that is available to cities.
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma provided an overview and results of the City Council Unfunded Pension Liability Study Session that occurred on October 17, 2022, sharing that the City Council, after analyzing the interest savings, unanimously voted to pay off half of the current liability and had futher discussion to payoff the remainder going forward. Mayor Pro Tem Sharma shared that as the liability is eliminated, the City Council remains obligated and committed to continued fiscal responsibility. Mayor Pro Tem Sharma commented on opportunities to develop special events to promote the City's identity.
Goal #3 Open Space and Environmental Preservation
Council Member Jennings discussed the City's strategic planning success related to this goal and shared resources that OCFA will provide to residents that are directly associated with identifying potential fire risk factors. Council Member Jennings stated that Council Member Gennawey had no comments to share about Goal #3.
Council Member Oddo discussed the importance of environmental sustainability, water conservation, the implementation of a community garden, and greenhouse gas reductions. Council Member Oddo stated that she would be hosting a new program called Climate Conversations to address environmental sustainability. Council Member Oddo discussed her interest in the City exploring renewable energy services later this year in which residents could potentially choose to receive renewable power.
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma reiterated his position in support of maintaining and capitalizing on the City's open space and Niguel Botanical Preserve.
Mayor Rains discussed that the City, county, and private homeowners associations own trails in the City. Mayor Rains expressed a need for collaboration and public/private partnerships to complete a trail study to determine the best and highest use of the existing trail system. Mayor Rains expressed that we need to promote the Botanical Preserve to further increase revenue for the City.
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma discussed the need to explore programs along our trails that incorporate our business community to enhance economic development and promote the Goal #4 Infrastructure and Technology
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma encouraged residents to attend one of the City's HOA Outreach meetings, where the City shares great information about infrastructure and technology.
City Council Special Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 7 January 24, 2023 Council Member Oddo stated that the top Capital Improvement Project she would like to see added is surrounding bike lane safety. She further expressed the importance of making data-driven decisions.
Council Member Jennings discussed the City's accomplishments related to broadband, EV infrastructure, and other smart city solutions and shared Council Member Gennawey's comments. (Statement attached)
Mayor Rains discussed broadband infrastructure improvements and the City's road maintenance and resurfacing plan. Mayor Rains stated that the City is currently working on a sidewalk maintenance and wall maintenance program to improve city infrastructure.
Goal #5 Economic and Community Development
Council Member Oddo stated that she would like to empower the City's commissions and committees and have an annual event where they can interact. Council Member Oddo discussed the importance of updating the General Plan and stated that she would like the plan to be updated at a minimum of every 20 years as it provides developers with a clear vision for the City. Council Member Oddo stated that she would like to further educate residents on workforce housing and accessory dwelling units.
Council Member Jennings stated the importance of community and economic development and discussed the City's recent accomplishments. Council Member Jennings stated that she is proud of the progress the City has made in this area and is confident in the Strategic Plan.
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma discussed the importance of taking a holistic approach to economic development that encompasses what we want the City to look like today and in the future. Mayor Pro Tem Sharma stated the importance of completing the General Plan update to establish a clear vision for the future. Mayor Pro Tem Sharma stated that he supports economic development having its own strategic plan.
Mayor Rains discussed the importance of economic development in the community, stating that it is a priority that the General Plan be updated as soon as possible. Mayor Rains added that generally, an update to a General Plan takes between 18 months and three years to complete, allowing the City to communicate its priorities and values to potential developers. Mayor Rains discussed the Gateway Specific Plan and the need for the plan to be updated.
Goal #6 Communication and Community Outreach
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma discussed the importance of public communication and encouraged residents to explore the city website as a useful resource.
Council Member Jennings discussed the resources and information the City shares through its social media platforms, flyers, pamphlets, and website. Council Member Jennings stated that she encourages the public to contact the City if they need assistance.
City Council Special Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 7 January 24, 2023 Council Member Oddo stated that she is in favor of any new and innovative ways to communicate with the public.
Mayor Rains discussed the various communication tools the City utilizes to communicate with residents. Mayor Rains discussed the Dana Point Sister Cities programs and stated the benefits the program provides to residents.
Mayor Rains called for final comments from the City Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Sharma discussed the City's unfunded pension liability and that savings from paying off the pension liability should be reallocated for the highest and best use, including the Section 115 Trust, and planning for potential future CalPers offsets.
Council Member Jennings read Council Member Gennawey's closing remarks. (Statement attached)
Council Member Jennings thanked the public for attending the special meeting and encouraged residents to attend their regular City Council meetings as well.
Council Member Oddo thanked the public for attending and shared that she looks forward to future innovations that improve the City.
Mayor Rains provided background about City's strategic plan and shared that today's workshop helps the City Council provide direction to staff. b) Public Comment
Cathleen Pryor, on behalf of the Laguna Height Homeowner's Association, discussed the improvements her HOA has been making to save drinking water and prevent wildfires.
She called on the City Council to help stop the Oso Ranch Development that backs up to her HOA due to additional public safety risks.
A resident discussed the environmental concerns in Laguna Niguel, encouraging a ban on single-use plastics in government buildings. He also expressed his concern for illegal street racing along Crown Valley Parkway.
A resident expressed her concern about residents not participating in composting and asked that the City provide additional communications. She added that there is a need for household battery recycling and water bottle refill stations at City facilities.
Lori McGuire expressed her gratitude for the Coastal Fire Response. She expressed her concern for fire mitigation efforts along homeowner association-owned slopes and requested that the City regulate clearings so that they only occur in the fall, preventing wildlife from being disturbed during aviary nesting season.
City Manager Letourneau clarified that the City does offer household battery recycling at City Hall.
City Council Special Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 7 January 24, 2023 Orange County Division Chief Hunter clarified that clearings of slopes owned by homeowners associations are the responsibility of homeowners associations and that the OCFA would preferably like the clearing to occur before the beginning of fire season.
Al Encinas discussed the Chet Holifield Federal Building and the potential opportunity the development project will provide the City. He discussed water retention in the City and the potential partnership with the county regarding Laguna Niguel Regional Park.
Community Development Director Orduna provided an update on the Chet Holifield Federal Building and discussions between the City and the General Services Administration (GSA).
c) Recess - Mayor Rains recessed the meeting at 11:35 am and reconvened at 11:45 am.
d) City Council Provides Direction On The Most Important Priorities That Should Be Incorporated Into The Strategic Plan Discussion In February.
Discussion ensued between the City Council to determine new priorities that should be incorporated into the Strategic Plan.
Mayor Rains made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sharma, to direct staff to take steps to engage in entering into an agreement with the Dana Point Sister Cities Association. Council Member Oddo asked a clarifying question on the fiscal impact of the agreement. Mayor Rains provided there would be no fiscal impact as a result of entering into this agreement. The motion carried 4-0 (Council Member Gennawey absent).
WRAP UP AND NEXT STEPS
Further discussion ensued between the City Council to determine what new priorities should be incorporated into the Strategic Plan. The City Council directed staff to prioritize incorporating the General Plan update, Gateway Specific Plan update, Public Safety, specifically public communications and Neighborhood Watch, and economic development into the strategic plan workshop on February 28, 2023.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Rains adjourned the Special City Council Meeting at 12:08 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Marissa J. Asistin
City Clerk
City Council Special Meeting Minutes Page 7 of 7 January 24, 2023 January 24, 2023
Dear Colleagues:
I am unable to attend at this brainstorm session due to an unanticipated work obligation. Which brings me to my first idea: Council meetings should only be held after normal work hours to maximize participation.
Here's a few other things I'd like to suggest:
I believe strongly that our residents should be frequently informed on current trends in public safety. This will encourage situational awareness and allow our residents to take precautionary measures when appropriate. To that end, I would like to see Police Services increase the public safety promotional campaign by producing short informational videos to be regularly posted on social media. Similar to the goals of a neighborhood watch program, this information will empower residents on current trends in their neighborhood.
Every so often a major problem arises that requires more than just publishing information it requires a community discussion. In recent years, our city held many productive townhall meetings on the recognition and eradication of human trafficking. Fentanyl poisoning is a problem that many do not understand. How do we recognize it? What do we tell our kids to avoid it? How is it entering our communities? On the evening of April 12'. ", I will host a community townhall on the fentanyl epidemic that has become the leading cause of death to children in Orange County.
I have thoroughly reviewed the 2022 update to the Strategic Plan. It provides a solid gameplan for the immediate future and beyond. We should continue to follow the goals of that plan, which will keep Council and Staff very busy over the next few years:
• It will be the first time in our city's history that we conduct a comprehensive update to the General Plan.
• We will begin discussing a Federal Building Area Specific Plan. • Shovels will hit the ground for the new Laguna Niguel City Center. • We will allocate the remaining American Rescue Plan funding.
These are just a few big items in addition to the excellent year-round programing and services provided by our various departments. Our current Strategic Plan is focused, and under-budget.
While there may be many worthy ideas to include as priorities in the plan, we must be mindful that if we have too many priorities, we truly have no priorities. I trust my colleagues will focus our strategic plan on the necessary functions of government. City Hall runs well because our city government operates within its means. I caution against adopting too many priorities because it will likely overburden our staff, and grow the size of government.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. I appreciate the direction of our current Strategic Plan, and look forward to executing the many goals of that plan to ensure Laguna Niguel remains one of the best cities in America.
Sincerely,
Ray Gennawe
Council Member
City of Laguna Niguel