_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City Council Special Minutes Page 1 of 3 May 13, 2025
LAGUNA NIGUEL CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting
May 13, 2025 – 5:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Gennawey called the Special City Council meeting on May 13, 2025, to order at 5:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Ray Gennawey – Present
Mayor Pro Tem Gene Johns – Present
Council Member Kelly Jennings – Absent
Council Member Stephanie Oddo – Present
Council Member Stephanie Winstead – Present
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Mayor Gennawey
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.
STUDY SESSION
1. Proposed Fiscal Years 2025-2027 Operating and Capital Budget
A Study Session for the Proposed Fiscal Years 2025-2027 Operating and Capital Budget was conducted. City Manager Letourneau, Finance Director Agrelius, and Public Works Director Scott presented a comprehensive overview of the proposed budget , the Ci ty’s first biennial budget . Included in the presentation was the review of the projects comprising the proposed Capital Improvement Project (CIP) p lan; the recommendation of proposed staffing updates and salary schedule adjustments based on the recent salary study; the recommendation to consider an updated master fee schedule; and recommendations to commit $381,101 (Fiscal Year 2025- 26) and $1,459,156 (Fiscal Year 2026-27) operational budget surpluses to the infrastructure replacement and deferred maintenance reserve fund; to authorize $1,459,156 from the infrastructure replacement and deferred maintenance reserve in Fiscal Year 2026-2027 to be used on the Crown Valley Parkway Westbound Widening Project ; and, to authorize $1,277,037 from the infrastructure replacement and deferred maintenance reserve in Fiscal Year 2026-2027 to be used on the La Paz Road Mobility Enhancements and Permanent Repair, with consideration of adoption at a public hearing to be held on June 3, 2025.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
In response to Council Member Winstead, Public Works Director Scott clarified that at current pricing in the market, the City realizes about five accessible pedestrian pushbutton replacements annually for the $50,000 budgeted amoun t and that the annual program traffic signal upgrade program yields about three cabinet replacements per year at a cost of approximately $40,000 - $50,000 per cabinet, confirming that the cabinets control the
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City Council Special Minutes Page 2 of 3 May 13, 2025 entire intersection. Council Member Winstead shared her primary concern with potential loss of state and federal grant funding for projects, particularly for the La Paz Road project. Public Works Director Scott shared that while there has been occasion where there were delays to budget approvals at the federal level, in her experience she has yet to have grant funding removed from a project. She further stated that even with delays, the City has always been able to work with the granting agency to secure funding when needed. City Manager Letourneau stated that staff believes that the grant funding included in the budget, with the possible exception of CDBG funding in year 2, will be received by the City. As information is constantly changing, as it relates to CDBG funds, staff is keeping a close watch on CDBG funding and will bring back a plan to the City Council to address any changes . City Manager Letourneau confirmed that the La Paz Road project is not reliant on CDBG funding. In response to inquiry by Council Member Winstead, Parks and Recreation Director Harmon confirmed that salaries for the aquatics division are projected to decrease due to a reclassification and increased contractor provided classes at the aquatics center. Finally, Council Member Winstead requested that staff provide City Council with the adopted data for Fiscal Years 2022-2023 and 2023- 2024 to provide a comparison to the budget actuals.
In response to Council Member Oddo’s suggestion for bus shelter upgrades to coordinate with existing city entry signage elements, Public Works Director Scott shared that is what has been selected as part of the upgrades. Council Member Oddo shared her excitement to implement a two -year budget, which allows the City to plan and save staff time and free up time for staff to work on other things and commented on the graphical representations allowing for clear understanding of budget information and indicators.
Council Member Oddo expressed her support for street maintenance and transportation funding and commented on Paseo de Colinas PCI rating of 44 and her desire to move the project up if/when funding allows. Council Member Oddo also shared her excitement for the potential for a $1.1 million TCA grant for environmental beautification and protection as well as fire resiliency of City owned land. Council Member Oddo concluded with recognizing the balanced budget being proposed, with no debt, and commended staff for their great work and expressed her support for the the proposed budget.
Mayor Pro Tem John s commented on the balanced budget being proposed, and the implementation of a two-year budget which will free up staff time to focus on other tasks.
Mayor Pro Tem Johns thanked Finance Director Agrelius for his consideration to include additional information regarding profits from the City’s reserve funds and expressed his appreciation for staff’s wise investment strategy. Finally, Mayor Pro Tem John’s recognized staff’s efforts to include CIP projects that continue to benefit the City’s residents and shared that he supported the proposed budget.
Mayor Gennawey shared his support for the 2- year proposed balanced budget, recognized staff’s effort to secure 51% of grant funding for CIP projects , expressed his agreement with Council Member Oddo’s support for street repairs throughout the City and his confidence in staff’s ability to complete the project , commented on the City’s availability of reserve funds to address issues like La Paz Road and the Crown Valley Widening Project. Mayor Gennawey recognized all staff in attendance for all they do to support the City’s executive team and expressed gratitude for staff and support for staff’s continued professional development and growth. Mayor Gennawey concluded with his appreciation for all the work that has been put into providing this proposed budget and
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City Council Special Minutes Page 3 of 3 May 13, 2025 thanked City Manager Letourneau for answering all of his questions on the specifics of the proposed budget.
Public Works Director Scott confirmed for Council Member Winstead the location of the proposed Open Space Rehabilitation Project being approximately 15 acres on the Salt Creek Corridor.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Gennawey adjourned the meeting at 5:51 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by:
_____________________________
Marissa J. Asistin, CMC
City Clerk
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 6 May 20, 2025
LAGUNA NIGUEL CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting
May 20, 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– Absent
Council Member Stephanie Oddo – Present
Council Member Stephanie Winstead – Present
INVOCATION – James Wenger, Grace Church
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Boy Scout Troop #772
PRESENTATIONS
1. Poppy Month Proclamation
Mayor Gennawey presented a proclamation declaring May 23, 2025, as “National Poppy Day” to the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 281. He thanked Auxiliary Unit 281 on behalf of the City Council, for their ongoing commitment to military members and their families.
2. Eagle Scouts Recognition
The City Council presented a certificate of recognition to Cole Cook, Jack Donahoo, and Zachary Williams, all recent recipients of the prestigious Eagle Scout award.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Joan Tateyama thanked City Staff for their work on the weed abatement program.
CONSENT CALENDAR
A MOTION was made by Council Member Oddo , seconded by Council Member Winstead, to approve the Consent Calendar as presented.
Motion carried 4-0.
1. Waive the Reading of all Ordinances
Approved the reading by title only of all ordinances wherein the titles appear on the public agenda; said titles shall be determined to have been read by title, and further reading is waived.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 6 May 20, 2025
2. Warrants of May 20, 2025
Approved as written.
3. Payroll Summary Register
Approved as written.
4. Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting on April 29, 2025 and Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on May 6, 2025
Approved as written.
5. Award of Maintenance Services Agreement for Citywide Janitorial Services to Merchants Building Maintenance, LLC
1. Awarded a Maintenance Services Agreement for Citywide Janitorial Services to Merchants Building Maintenance, LLC in the not -to-exceed amount of $350,000 per year for Fiscal Years 2025- 26 through 2027- 28, subject to extension administratively for two additional one-year periods; and,
2. Approved a not-to-exceed 20% contingency per year of the total contract in the amount of $70,000 for unforeseen conditions or additional work and authorized the Public Works Director/City Engineer to approve additional work with Merchants Building Maintenance, LLC for a total not -to-exceed amount of $420,000 per year if needed; and,
3. Authorized the City Manager to execute the agreement and future amendments to the Maintenance Services Agreement with Merchants Building Maintenance, LLC subject to the City Attorney making non-substantive changes.
6. Award of Maintenance Services Agreement for Citywide Pres sure Washing and Graffiti Removal Services to Superior Property Services, Inc.
1. Awarded a Maintenance Services Agreement for Citywide Pressure Washing and Graffiti Removal Services to Superior Property Services, Inc. in the not-to- exceed amount of $100,000 per year for Fiscal Years 2025- 26 through 2027- 28, subject to extension administratively for two additional one- year periods; and,
2. Approved a not-to-exceed 20% contingency per year of the total contract in the amount of $20,000 for unforeseen conditions or additional work and authorized the Public Works Director/City Engineer to approve additional work with Superior Property Services, Inc. for a total not -to-exceed amount of $120,000 per year, if needed; and,
3. Authorized the City Manager to execute the agreement and future amendments to the Maintenance Services Agreement with Superior Property Services, Inc.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 6 May 20, 2025
subject to the City Attorney making non-substantive changes.
7. Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Mike Linares, Inc. for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Administration Services for Fiscal Years 2025-2028
1. Approved the three- year Professional Services Agreement for CDBG Administration Services with Mike Linares, Inc. in a total not-to-exceed amount of $114,000 for Fiscal Years 2025-26 through 2027-28.
2. Authorized the City Manager to execute the Agreement, subject to the City Attorney making non-substantive changes.
DISCUSSION ITEM
1. Introduction of Ordinance No. 2025 -235 Amending the Laguna Niguel Municipal Code Designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones as required by Government Code Section 51178 and Determining the Action Not Subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Community Development Deputy Director John Morgan provided a presentation on the introduction of Ordinance No. 2025- 235 amending the Laguna Niguel Municipal Code designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones as required by Government Code Section 51178 and determining th e action not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
COUNCIL QUESTIONS
Council Member Winstead asked for clarification on whether the higher construction standards for the "very high" zone apply only to new buildings, or if they will also make it more difficult for existing structures to get permits by holding them to the same higher standards. Deputy Director Morgan explained that the building code includes a $50,000 threshold. For projects like a room addition, there may be minor requirements such as tighter vent mesh to prevent ember intrusion, but these are low-cost. For typical remodels, like a kitchen renovation, no new building requirements would be triggered for existing structures.
Mayor Gennawey asked if the City is required by State law to adopt the map, with no local discretion. Deputy Director Morgan confirmed that the City is required to adopt the map with no local discretion. Mayor Gennawey clarified that the C ity is required by S tate law to adopt the map without changes, which explains why it can't be altered. He pointed out that new areas, such as Laguna Niguel Regional Park and Chap parosa Park, are now designated as very high fire hazard severity zones. Mayor Gennawey explained that this change is the reason this year's July 4
th show in the sky is switching from fireworks to a
drone show.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 6 May 20, 2025
There was no council discussion.
A MOTION was made by Mayor Pro Tem Johns, seconded by Council Member Oddo to:
1. Waive the full reading, make any changes to, and introduce Ordinance No. 2025-235 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA
NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ARTICLE 7 TO DIVISION 3, TITLE 11 OF THE LAGUNA NIGUEL MUNICIPAL CODE, DESIGNATING FIRE
HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES WITHIN THE CITY OF LAGUNA NIGUEL
IN ACCORDANCE WITH GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 51179 AND
DETERMINING THE ACTION NOT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) UNDER STATE CEQA
GUIDELINES SECTIONS 15060(c)(2) AND 15060(c)(3)
2. Direct that the proposed Ordinance, with any changes, be placed on the agenda for the June 3, 2025, City Council Meeting and adopt the Ordinance at the meeting; and,
3. Find the adoption of Ordinance No. 2025- 235 is not subject to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because the proposed actions will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, do not authorize const ruction, and therefore is not a project as defined under CEQA.
Motion carried 4-0.
OTHER BUSINESS/COUNCIL REPORTS
1. Council Reports
Council Member Oddo shared that the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) recently approved a $139 million budget and manage a $650 million portfolio. They are on track to pay down $47 million in debt by January 2026. Additionally, a partnership with SBCTA to process tolls is projected to generate $2.2 million in revenue, reflecting strong financial performance for TCA. She highlighted an upcoming Military Support Committee initiative, Operation Baby Shower, taking place on June 7 and 8 at Walmart from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The event encourages the donation of new baby care items for families of the USS Stockdale and the First Marine Regimental Headquarters. Council Member Oddo announced the recipients of the Hidden Hills First Generation Scholarship, which s he founded to support student leaders who are the first in their families to attend college.
She expressed pride in their accomplishments and thanked scholarship committee members for their contributions.
Council Member Winstead shared that t he American Legion Auxiliary Unit 281 held an essay contest for fourth and fifth graders in local elementary schools. Council Member Winstead served on the committee that reviewed the submissions and announced that
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 6 May 20, 2025
Ally Pervvis, a fourth -grade student at George White Elementary, was the winner. Her essay not only won the local contest but also advanced and won at the regional level.
Council Member Winstead presented Ally with a certificate of recognition at her school and praised her family, Principal, and her teachers for their support. Council Member Winstead read Ally’s essay titled “Why Do We Say the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag?”.
Mayor Pro Tem Johns invited the community to the Memorial Day Ceremony event on May 26 at 12 p.m . at the Sea Country Senior and Community Center to honor military service members who have sacrificed their lives for freedom. He also shared that on May 8, several City Council members attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new OCD Anxiety Center in Laguna Niguel. The center serves individuals aged 8 and older and helps them face fears, resist compulsions, and build confidence , something he believes will greatly benefit the youth in the community. Mayor Pro Tem Johns shared that on May 17, the City Council attended the Little League closing ceremony. Mayor Pro Tem Johns thanked Paul Blake, the league president, for the invitation and praised the event as one of the most meaningful he had seen. Awards were given in honor of players who passed away at a young age, making the ceremony emotional and memorable.
Mayor Gennawey echoed Mayor Pro Tem John’s praise of the Little League closing ceremony, calling it a powerful display of community spirit. He described the emotional tributes to young players who had passed away and highlighted the presentation of Iron Man awards and personalized bats to long- time players. Mayor Gennawey also commended Paul Blake for serving as league president despite not having a child currently in the league, showcasing his dedication and volunteerism. Mayor Gennawey reminded the public of the upcoming Memorial Day Ceremony event on May 26 at noon at the Sea Country Senior and Community Center and briefly mentioned the recent budget study session. He shared that t he City is preparing its first biennial budget, covering the next two fiscal years, which will save time and resources. Mayor Gennawey focused heavily on the C ity’s opposition to the proposed battery energy storage facility.
The 270-day review period began on April 30, with the first public hearing set for May 29.
He and Mayor Pro Tem Johns, along with Assembly Member Davies and local officials, met with California Energy Commission representatives to express serious safety concerns. These included the facility's proximity to homes and schools, access challenges for emergency vehicles, and evacuation difficulties for nearby Capistrano Valley High School. Mayor Gennawey emphasized growing opposition from various groups, including the Capistrano Unified School District, and urged residents to attend the May 29 hearing and submit comments online. Mayor Gennawey encouraged public participation and expressed confidence that a united community action can stop the proposed project.
City Manager/Department Reports
City Manager Letourneau provided details about the upcoming California Energy Commission (CEC) meeting regarding the proposed battery storage project. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 29, with the location still to be determined but efforts are underway to hold it near Laguna Niguel. The meeting will begin with a CEC staff presentation on the process, followed by presentations from the project applicant, staff scope of work, environmental analysis, and safety standards. There will also be
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 6 May 20, 2025
information on public participation and tribal consultation opportunities. Government representatives from tribes and various agencies will give comments before the meeting opens for public comments, both in person and virtually. If public comments cannot be completed during the meeting, a virtual session will be held on Tuesday, June 3 to continue testimony. This is the first of multiple public hearings in the review process, which began on April 30 with the 270-day review period. City Manager Letourneau emphasized the importance of community attendance and participation and reconfirmed the City’s opposition to the proposed project.
Parks and Recreation Director Jonathon Harmon announced an exciting lineup of summer events for Laguna Niguel. The Summer Concert Series kicks off on June 6 with the James Kelly Band playing modern and classic country music. On June 20, the Funky Hippie Band will perform family-friendly tunes. For the 4th of July, a new drone light show will accompany a two-band concert at Crown Valley Park, featuring Jukebox Productions in the afternoon and Titans of Rock headlining the evening with patriotic songs. On July 18, the Dreamboats will perform popular hits from the ’50s and ’60s, followed by the ’90s Rock Show on August 1, a local fan favorite. The final concert on August 15 will feature Flashback Heart Attack, delivering a top ’80s show. The summer events culminate with the Sea Country Festival from August 22- 24 near Whole Foods, offering carnival rides, games, food, vendors, and live music. More information is available on the C ity website, the summer recreation brochure, and social media. Parks and Recreation Director Harmon thanked his team for their hard work in organizing the events.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Gennawey adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
__
Marissa J. Asistin, CMC, City Clerk