City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 6 April 15, 2025
LAGUNA NIGUEL CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting
April 15, 2025
7:00 p.m. – Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL – Mayor Gennawey called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Ray Gennawey – Present
Mayor Pro Tem Gene Johns – Present
Council Member Kelly Jennings– Present
Council Member Stephanie Oddo – Present
Council Member Stephanie Winstead – Present
INVOCATION – Jan Sherertz, First Church of Christ, Scientist
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Boy Scout Troop #772
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Consent Calendar Item No. 5 was pulled from the consent calendar.
A MOTION was made by Council Member Jennings, seconded by Council Member Oddo, to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar as presented.
Motion carried 5-0.
1. Warrants of April 1, 2025 and April 15, 2025
Approved as written.
2. Payroll Summary Register
Approved as written.
3. Investment Report as of February 28, 2025
Received and filed the City of Laguna Niguel Investment Report as of February 28, 2025.
4. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on March 18, 2025
Approved as written.
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6. Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Design Services Agreement with Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) and Approval of a Construction and Maintenance Agreement with SCRRA for the Crown Valley Parkway Westbound Widening Project
1. Approved Amendment No. 1 to the Design Services Agreement (DSA) with the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA), increasing the total not- to-exceed design costs by $15,000 to $233,200; and
2. Approved the Construction and Maintenance Agreement (C&MA) between the SCRRA and the City of Laguna Niguel for the construction and maintenance of the Crown Valley Parkway Overpass North Side Widening Crossing over the Metrolink Tracks at Metrolink’s Orange Subdiv ision MP 193.20, CPUC Crossing No.: 101 OR -193.20-A, DOT No.: 026780C, in the City of Laguna Niguel, Orange County, California; and
3. Authorized the payment of incremental deposits representing costs for work to be performed by the SCRRA under the C&MA with a total not-to-exceed value of $1,387,822.00; and
4. Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to the DSA and execute the C&MA with SCRRA, subject to the City Attorney making non- substantive changes.
7. Acceptance of Grant of Easement Deed from Orange County Flood Control District and Authorization for Just Compensation for the Crown Valley Parkway Westbound Widening Project
1. Accepted the grant of Easement Deed from the Orange County Flood Control District on portions of Assessor Parcel Numbers 636- 033-04 and 636-043- 08 for the Crown Valley Parkway Westbound Widening Project at the Oso Creek Channel.
2. Authorized the payment of Just Compensation for the grant of Easement Deed to the Orange County Flood Control District in the amount of $76,800.00.
3. Authorized the City Manager to execute and accept the grant of Easement Deed on the City’s behalf.
8. Amendment No. 2 to the Professional Services Agreement with Westamerica Communications, Inc. for the Publication and Distribution of Recreation Brochures
1. Approved Amendment No. 2 to the Professional Services Agreement for the publication and distribution of recreation brochures with Westamerica Communications, Inc.; and,
2. Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 2 to the Professional
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Services Agreements and future amendments to the agreement, subject to the City Attorney making non-substantive changes.
9. City Sponsorship of Dana Hills High School and Aliso Niguel High School Grad Nite 2025
1. Approved a sponsorship donation of $2,500 to the Dana Hills High School Grad Nite Committee; and,
2. Approved a sponsorship donation of $2,500 to the Aliso Niguel High School Grad Nite Committee.
ITEM PULLED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
5. Award of Plans and Specifications for Golden Lantern Median Modifications at Serenity Lane, Cash Contract No. 23-08 and Authorization to Advertise the Project for Bids
Council Member Oddo expressed enthusiasm about advancing a long- awaited project, which she had previously advocated for during the last year’s budget workshop due to its importance to public safety. Sh e noted the project was shovel -ready, cost -effective at approximately $600,000, and financially feasible given Laguna Niguel’s strong reserves.
She thanked Mayor Pro Tem Johns for collaborating and supporting the project mid-year, emphasizing coming together to prioritize residents.
A MOTION was made by Council Member Oddo, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Johns, to:
1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Golden Lantern Median Modifications at Serenity Lane Project, Cash Contract No. 23-08; and,
2. Authorize staff to advertise the project for bids.
Motion carried 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM
1. Public Hearing to Consider the Draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2025- 2029 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Consolidated Plan, including the FY 2025- 2026 Annual Action Plan, and the FY 2025 -2029 Orange County Regional Assessment of Fair Housing
Community Development Director Orduna introduced the item and the C ity’s CDBG consultant, Mike Linares , provided a report on the draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2025- 2029 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Consolidated Plan, including the FY 2025- 2026 Annual Action Plan, and the FY 2025- 2029 Orange County Regional Assessment of Fair Housing.
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COUNCIL QUESTIONS
Mayor Gennawey inquired about the status of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) being affected by the changing status of federal grants. CDBG consultant Mike Linares responded that the C ity now has an approved budget and consolidated plan, which ensures grant funding for the next fiscal year. While the long-term future of CDBG funding is uncertain, cities are proceeding under the assumption that funds will continue.
Without a consolidated plan, eligibility for future funds would be at risk. He noted that CDBG has strong bipartisan support in Congress, particularly among members with local government experience. The program is valued for prov iding capital improvement funds to smaller jurisdictions and serving as an effective channel for emergency funding, such as during the recent fires in Los Angeles. While he cannot guarantee future funding, Mr.
Linares is confident that funding for next year is secure.
Council Member Oddo inquired about the C ity's progress on ADA compliance at street corners, noting that improvements are being made incrementally throughout the City. She inquired on how much of the City has been covered so far and how much work remains.
Public Works Director Scott responded that ADA compliance is required for all roadway capital projects. CDBG funds are typically used for residential areas eligible under the program and not for major arterial roads. ADA improvements in other areas are incorporated into broader construction projects to increase efficiency and minimize disruption. She noted the process is ongoing citywide and, while she didn’t have an exact completion estimate, the work is continuous —once one area is finished, work begins again elsewhere.
Mayor Gennawey opened the Public Hearing for comment.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Gennawey closed Public Hearing.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Mayor Gennawey expressed appreciation for hearing from community groups applying for grant funding, including Age Well Senior Services, Camino Health Center, Family Assistance Ministries, South County Outreach, Vocational Visions, and the YMCA of Orange County. H e emphasized the importance of supporting organizations that serve the community’s most vulnerable and shared that serving on the ad- hoc committee for the past three years has been one of the most fulfilling roles as a City Council member.
Council Member Jennings echoed appreciation for the opportunity to support impactful community organizations. Sh e expressed gratitude that funding will continue at least through the next year and thanked those involved for their work, adding that it is an honor to serve on the ad-hoc committee.
A MOTION was made by Mayor Gennawey, seconded by Council Member Jennings to:
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1. Open the public hearing and receive testimony;
2. Consider the Draft FY 2025- 2029 CDBG Consolidated Plan, including the FY 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan, and the FY 2025- 2029 Orange County Regional Assessment of Fair Housing; and, City Council Regular Meeting Agenda Page 5 of 6 April 15, 2025; and,
3. Direct that the Draft FY 2025-2029 CDBG Consolidated Plan, including the FY 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan, and the FY 2025- 2029 Orange County Regional Assessment of Fair Housing, with any changes, be placed on the May 6, 2025, City Council Agenda for final adoption.
Motion carried 5-0.
OTHER BUSINESS/COUNCIL REPORTS
1. Council Reports
Council Member Jennings thanked the Parks and Recreation Department team for their work on the Junior Civic Workshop, noting it was a great experience for the students and ended on a high note with a presentation from the team. She also praised Parks and Recreation Director Harmon for a very successful Bunny Bonanza event, especially appreciating the new venue and positive feedback from attendees, including sponsor representatives from Mercedes -Benz of Laguna Niguel . Council Member Jennings extended warm wishes to staff and the community for a joyful Passover and a blessed Easter, hoping the season brings peace, hope, and meaningful time with loved ones.
Council Member Winstead shared that the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 281 recently held an essay contest for local 4th and 5th graders on the topic “Why do we say the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag?” She participated in reviewing and ranking the submissions and congratulated Ally, a 4th grader from Hidden Hills Elementary, for her outstanding essay. Council Member Winstead read Ally’s heartfelt essay aloud, which emphasized honoring those who served in the military, appreciating American freedoms, and expressing gratitude for the country. She praised Ally, her teacher, principal, and parents, for their contributions and concluded with appreciation for the patriotic message.
Council Member Oddo spoke of a recent ride-along with Laguna Niguel Police Services, noting that it was a calm and informative experience. She shared her participation in various community events including welcoming new businesses, the Taste of Dana, Crystal Apple Awards, Bunny Bonanza, and the Orange County Council of Governments conference. Council Member Oddo reported that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ( HUD) has ended funding for the Emergency Housing Voucher program. Currently, ni ne recipients in Laguna Niguel rely on this aid, and the future of their housing is uncertain. She asked staff to analyze the potential impact of the Trump administration's 25% auto tariffs on City revenue, which could affect the $1.8 million the City earns annually from auto- related sales. Council Member Oddo shared that the Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel has prepared by stockpiling inventory and won't raise prices for 2025 models. She promoted California’s online library offering over 300,000
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free eBooks and audiobooks. Council Member Oddo also shared a personal success story about receiving a discount on her property insurance through the National Firewise USA program and encouraged other HOAs to pursue certification. Council Member Oddo wished the community a H appy Easter, Passover, and Arbor Day from Tree City USA, Laguna Niguel.
Mayor Pro Tem Johns shared his appreciation for the Laguna Niguel Police Services team, following a recent Deputy ride-along, praising their leadership and dedication to the community. He reflected on his own patrol days in the 1980s and noted the continued enthusiasm among current deputies. He expressed concern over the number of serious traffic accidents in the City, urging residents to slow down and obey signals. Mayor Pro Tem Johns also praised the Bunny Bonanza event and the new venue, highlighting the popularity of the "Touch a Truck" attraction, particularly the CR&R trash truck. He concluded by wishing everyone a happy and safe Easter and Passover.
Mayor Gennawey shared a lighthearted story about his son's love for CR&R trash trucks, highlighting their use of clean natural gas and high cost ($400,000 each). H e reported having numerous meetings at City Hall with stakeholders to discuss upcoming C ity initiatives and thanked staff and community members for their collaboration. Mayor Gennawey promoted several City events including Earth Day at the Niguel Botanical Preserve that is s cheduled for Saturday, April 19 with nearly 200 volunteers expected.
Attendees should bring gloves and enthusiasm to help beautify the hillside at Crown Valley Park. The Taste of Aliso Niguel will take place on Saturday, April 26, near Webb Grain Works in Aliso Viejo. It's a fun evening for adults with food, drinks, music, and auction items. Tickets can be purchased at www. anhspfan.org. The Skateboard Trick Contest will take place at the Bluegates Skate Park on Saturday, April 19. Mayor Gennawey concluded by wishing the community a Happy Easter and Passover.
2. City Manager/Department Reports
Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Division Chief Mike Summers provided an OCFA Quarterly Report.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Gennawey adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:46 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
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Marissa J. Asistin, CMC, City Clerk