1. Call to Order
1A. Call to Order- 7:03 PM
1B. Roll Call- 7:04 PM
Staff Present:
T. Jarb Thaipejr, City Manager
Diane Robbins, City Attorney
Lynette Arreola, City Clerk
Sonia Fabela, Finance Director
Dan Harker, Fire Chief
Nicole Campbell, Associate Planner
Nate Boucher, Battalion Chief
Kyle Mac Gavin, Information Systems Analyst III
Lt. Kaysie Smith, San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department 1C. Closed Session - Conference with Labor Negotiator (Government Code Section 54957.6) [Request to move Closed Session item to end of Agenda]- 7:04 PM ** The following document is a draft of the minutes and the not the official approved minutes ** Minutes for the Regular City Council
25541 Barton Road, Loma Linda, CA 92354
April 9, 2024, 7:03 PM - April 9, 2024, 11:19 PM
Roll Call: (The following members were in attendance)
Phillip Dupper, Mayor
Ronald Dailey, Mayor pro tempore
Bhavin Jindal, Councilmember
Ovidiu Popescu, Councilmember
Rhonda Spencer-Hwang, Councilmember
Absent:
John Lenart, Councilmember
Rhodes Rigsby, Councilmember
Agency Representative: City Manager T. Jarb Thaipejr
Employee Organizations: Teamsters (Public Works); Teamsters (Administration); Loma Linda Professional Fire Fighters, Local 935; and Unrepresented Safety (Fire) Management/Confidential Employees.
City Manager Thaipejr recommended moving this item to the end of the Agenda after the newlyelected Council Members are sworn in.
The City Council recessed at 9:19 pm to consider the Closed Session Item as listed and reconvened at 10:02 pm to resume the regular meeting (resume to Agenda Item 5B) with members present except Councilman Rigsby. City Attorney Robbins announced that the City Council met with the Agency's Representative and direction was given to staff. 1D. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance - Mayor Dupper- 7:04 PM The Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance were led by Mayor Dupper. 1E. Items to be Added or Deleted- 7:05 PM
City Manager Thaipejr removed two items from the Agenda:
1. 2.
1F. Oral Reports/Public Participation - Non-Agenda Items (Each Speaker limited to 3 minutes. Pursuant to the Brown Act, no action or discussion can be taken by City Council)- 7:05 PM
Milford Harrison, the Director of the San Bernardino Valley Regional Water District, offered an update on the region's water supply, assuring that there is sufficient water available for the foreseeable future, provided that conservation efforts are sustained. He invited the Council to attend the San Bernardino Valley Foundations Summit on April 25-26, 2024, and the State Water Project Tour, on May 29-31, 2024.
Todd and Donna Underwood conveyed their gratitude for the efforts of City staff and law enforcement, noting improvements in graffiti removal, increased police patrols, and the reduction in loitering. They noted suspicious activity occurring on a vacant property on First Street; a tent on the sidewalk at Barton Rd. bus stop by Mayberry; trash along the railroad tracks; and a homeless camp behind the storage facility in the Flood Control channel.
Mayor Dupper recommended contacting the authorities regarding any suspicious activity. He also briefly mentioned the Boise Case decision, which ruled that criminalizing camping on public property is considered cruel and unusual punishment when individuals have no alternative legal sleeping options. He mentioned a case being heard this month regarding this matter.
Alex Beltran thanked Councilman Jindal for his four years of service on the City Council. She noted that he rose to the challenge and advocated for young adults, young families, public transit, and for City Council Agenda Item 2G, Tentative Tract Map No. P22-264 (TTM 20467) and Precise Plan of Design No. P22-266 - A request to demolish a single-family home and develop a single-family residential subdivision, comprised of nine (9) residential lots, one (1) lettered lot, and a new public street, located on Park Ave., west of Curtis St. and east of Coloma St. within the LowDensity Residential (R-1) General Land Use designation and Zoning District (APN: 0283-162-20), to be rescheduled to May 14, 2024; and
City Council Agenda Item 3I, Notice of Completion for the Waterline Improvements on Beaumont Ave. (CIP 20-657), to be rescheduled to a future meeting; date currently undetermined. a more climate-friendly environment.
Jose Mejia deferred his comments to Agenda Item 2G.
Susan Montenerno expressed concern about Loma Linda not being as safe as she spoke of her personal experiences in her neighborhood; about traffic safety concerns at the intersection of Park Ave. and Coloma St.; and about the lack of parking being provided to the new housing project proposed on Park Ave. west of Curtis St. and east of Coloma St. She noted that the Mayor and Council have much responsibility for the safety and security of the community. She concluded by expressing her appreciation to the public safety offices. 1G. Conflict of Interest Disclosure- 7:32 PM
No reported conflicts of interest.
2. Scheduled and Related Items
2A. Proclamations- 7:32 PM
Mayor Dupper presented Proclamations for the:
2B. Council Bill #R-2024-11 - March 5, 2024, Election Results [City Clerk]- 7:39 PM Motion by Ronald Dailey, Seconded by Phillip Dupper and motion passing by a vote of 3- 0-0-2, John Lenart and Rhodes Rigsby absent, to Adopt Council Bill #R-2024-11.
RESOLUTION NO. 3209
National Day of Prayer - May 2, 2024 - Carolyn J. Perschern accepted the Proclamation, stating that they will have a group of over 30 different churches praying for the community and elected officials. She invited all to their event on May 2, 2024, at the Double Tree Hotel in Ontario.
The Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House - 2024 Walk for Kids Relay on April 28, 2024 - Marlen Albelbisi accepted the Proclamation, expressing gratitude for the proclamation and noting that the Ronald McDonald Housing will ensure families will have a home away from home when they have a child in the hospital.
One Legacy DMV/Donate Life Month - April 2024 - Katryn Mantz accepted the Proclamation, expressing her appreciation and acknowledgment of Donate Life Month. She noted that she is a mother of 3, but tragically lost her son, Christopher, 6 1/2 years ago. She stated that Loma Linda Children's Hospital made every effort to save him and noted that they hold a special place in her heart. She pointed out that Christopher saved five lives by donating both kidneys, liver, pancreas, and both heart valves and that those five individuals are living their best lives. She thanked the City of Loma Linda for recognizing the amazing gift of organ and tissue donation.
Adopt Council Bill #R-2024-11, Confirming the March 5, 2024, Election Results; Allow remarks from departing Councilmembers;
Administer Oath of Allegiance to newly elected Councilmembers and present Certificates of Election; and
Seat and allow remarks from newly elected Councilmembers.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMA LINDA CALIFORNIA, RECITING THE FACTS OF THE PRIMARY MUNICIPAL ELECTION HELD ON MARCH 5, 2024, DECLARING THE RESULT AND SUCH OTHER MATTERS AS PROVIDED BY LAW.
Councilman Jindal reflected on his path to public service, which commenced during his time in the Cadet Corps in middle school. Since then, he remained dedicated to a life of public service, consistently striving for sustainability and seeking to make a positive impact. He expressed gratitude to key groups and individuals who assisted and supported him during his tenure, including Chief Harker, the Fire Department, City Staff, Lorena Matarrita, Sonia Fabela, Lt. Kaysie Smith, Karen McCulloch, Mayor Dupper and Mayor pro tempore Dailey. He also thank the Fire and City staff for assisting him in reestablishing the Community Garden, a key feature of the City. He commended City Staff, stating that they are the most hardworking and dedicated staff in the County. He also thanked the voters and volunteers who dedicated their time during his campaign. He thanked Mr. Belliard and Ms. Spencer-Hwang for running professional campaigns. He congratulated Ms. Spencer-Hwang and Mr. Popescu, wishing them success. He affirmed his commitment to remain a humble servant and advocate for the community to build a brighter future.
City Clerk Arreola administered the Oath of Office to Councilmembers-elect Popescu and SpencerHwang and presented their respective Certificates of Election.
Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang expressed her gratitude to her family, friends, and the community for their presence and support.
Councilman Popescu stated that he is grateful to call Loma Linda his home and cares deeply for the future of this community. He thanked the Almighty for his blessings and all his Glory; he thanked his family and all who donated their time and money during his campaign and is humbled by the support of the citizens. He noted that the community is facing issues and unique opportunities. He believes his prior experience as a Councilmember, in the private sector, and community involvement have prepared him for this next chapter. He is ready to work and to build on the successes of the prior Council. He thanked Mr. Jindal and Mr. Lenart for their services as Council.
The new Council Members took their seats on the Dais.
2C. Reorganization- 7:59 PM
Councilman Popescu believed it would be appropriate to continue this item to a Special Meeting on April 16 when they can have a full Council.
Mayor Dupper and Mayor pro tempore Dailey stated they would not be available on April 16.
Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang consented to proceed with what is scheduled on the agenda.
The election of the Mayor was conducted.
Motion by Ronald Dailey, seconded by Phillip Dupper to nominate Phillip Dupper for Mayor.
There were no other nominations. Motion passed by a vote of 3-0-1-1; Ovi Popescu abstained; Rhodes Rigsby absent.
Mayor Dupper expressed his belief that all members of the Council are equal and is proud to work with a City Council that genuinely cares about the City.
The election of Mayor pro tempore was conducted.
Motion by Phillip Dupper to nominate Ronald Dailey for Mayor pro tempore. Mayor Dupper stated that his nomination is based on Mr. Dailey's years of experience and commitment to the Council.
Seconded by Ovi Popescu. There were no other nominations. Motion passed by a vote of 4-0- 0-1; Rhodes Rigby absent.
2D. Appoint City Council Members to the Following Boards/Commissions- 8:03 PM Discussion ensued and the following appointments were made:
San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA)
Delegate: Councilman Dailey; Alternate: Councilman Popescu Omnitrans
Delegate: Councilman Dailey; Alternate Councilman Popescu Inland Valley Development Agency (IVDA)
Delegate: Councilman Rigsby and Mayor Dupper; Alternate: Councilwoman SpencerHwang San Bernardino International Airport Authority (SBIAA)
Delegate: Councilman Rigsby; Alternate: Mayor Dupper
Solid Waste Management Board
Delegate: Councilman Dupper; Alternate: City Manager Thaipejr California Joint Powers Insurance Authority Board of Directors (CJPIA) Delegate: Councilman Rigsby; Alternate: City Manager Thaipejr Consolidated Fire Agencies JPA Board of Directors (CONFIRE) Delegate: Councilman Dupper; Alternate Councilman Rigsby Southern California Associated Governments (SCAG)
Delegate: Councilman Popescu; Alternate: Mayor pro tempore Dailey Motion by Ronald Dailey, seconded by Ovidiu Popescu, and passing by a vote of 4-0-0-1 Absent was Rhodes Rigsby
to Approve the appointments of delegates and alternates as noted. 2E. Accept with regret the resignation of Kurt Swigart from the Budget and Parks, Recreation and Beautification Committees [City Manager]- 8:14 PM On behalf of the City Council, Mayor Dupper accepted the resignation of Mr. Kurt Swigart from the Budget and Parks, Recreation, and Beautification Committees. He thanked Mr. Swigart for his commitment and dedication serving the City. He said he appreciated his friendship and was sorry to see him go. He presented a plaque to Mr. Swigart.
Mr. Swigart stated that he has lived in Loma Linda for over 34 years and 3 months, and they are now relocating. He noted that it has been a wonderful time and appreciated all the Council has done for the City.
City Manager Thaipejr and Mayor pro tempore Dailey expressed their appreciation to Mr. Swigart for his leadership and commitment to the City.
2F. Environmental Justice Element Presentation [Community Development]- 8:18 PM Associate Planner Campbell explained that Community Development was in the process of adding a new element to the City's General Plan. She noted that Rami & Associates is assisting the City in preparing this Element and that their efforts are funded by SBCTA. She noted that the Attorney General's office has closely been monitoring the City's status of preparing the element.
Mr. Juan Reynoso, Rami & Associates, introduced himself and noted that their agency is partnering with SBCTA to assist agencies in preparing their Environmental Justice (EJ) Element. He pointed out the requirement to have a General Plan, explaining its purpose and essential elements it must incorporate. He went on to explain that the Environmental Justice Element is the newest requirement of the General Plan, noting that this element was the result of SB 1000, the Planning for Healthy Communities Act, which went into effect in 2018 requiring local governments to identify environmental justice communities [called "disadvantaged communities (DAC)"] in their jurisdictions.
He reviewed the SB 1000 six Topic Areas to reduce the unique or compounded health risks in DACs:
1) Reduce Pollution Exposure; 2) Promote Food Access; 3) Promote Physical Activity; 4) Promote Public Facilities; 5) Promote Safe and Sanitary Homes; and 6) Promote Civic Engagement. He discussed the three Phases in preparing this element for adoption, which involved a survey that was currently being circulated; in-person and virtual engagement opportunities for community input; study sessions with the Planning Commission and City Council; and the hearings for adoption by the City Council. He commended Loma Linda Staff for being proactive in commencing this process and taking advantage of this opportunity of the free technical assistance offered by SBCTA. He noted that Loma Linda is the only jurisdiction currently taking advantage of this free service and avoiding conflicts with the Attorney General's office by showing a concerted effort to complete this process.
Mayor Dupper expressed concern that the survey had been distributed without Council's knowledge.
He preferred presenting such items to the Council for review before circulation so they have prior knowledge.
In response to questions, Mr. Reynoso noted that the survey would remain open until May 31, 2024; that they would actively work with staff and continue public outreach efforts; that he anticipated the study sessions with City Council would be in late summer or early fall to review the preliminary engagement feedback and brainstorm ideas for additional policies and goals for the general plan; and that they will keep Council updated throughout the process.
Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang asked about the survey's methodology, including whether any incentives were being offered, how the online-only format might limit the demographic, and the number of focus groups involved. She also requested that the Council have the opportunity to review the facilitation guide and would assist in promoting the survey.
Associate Planner Campbell stated that they had stopped the survey circulation after two weeks in order to present to City Council. Currently, they have received 30 responses. She also noted plans to advertise the survey across the city with posters and make it available in hard copy.
Mr. Reynoso stated that they have not yet determined the number of focus groups, but are looking at various options. They would welcome City Council's assistance in spreading the word.
Todd Underwood registered to speak but was not present. 2G. Public Hearing - Tentative Tract Map No. P22-264 (TTM 20467) and Precise Plan of Design No. P22-266 - a request to demolish a single-family home and develop a singlefamily residential subdivision, comprised of nine (9) residential lots, one (1) lettered lot, and a new public street. The site is located on Park Avenue, west of Curtis Street and east of Coloma Street, within the Low Density Residential (R-1) General Land Use designation and Zoning District. (APN:0283-162-20) [Community Development]- 8:54 PM Public Hearing was opened at 8:46 PM and closed at 8:54 PM Mayor Dupper reminded the Council that this item is being rescheduled to May 14, 2024, at the request of the City Manager; however, since the item was advertised as a public hearing for this meeting, he will open the public hearing for public comment.
The public hearing was opened.
Jose Mejia noted that his property is directly across the street from the development, and his property will face the street. He expressed concern about the added traffic this will generate and the insufficient parking. The development is on a cul-de-sac, but he would like to see a second street access into this subdivision, possibly from Redlands Blvd. He pointed out that a petition was submitted to the City from residents who have concerns with parking and traffic.
Mayor Dupper explained that cities are facing a challenge with new State requirements that do not allow a City to deny a project based on parking and traffic issues. That discretion is being taken away from local governments.
City Manager Thaipejr noted that the developer does not own the property behind the development to provide access from Redlands Blvd.
The public hearing was closed.
Motion by Ovidiu Popescu, seconded by Rhonda Spencer-Hwang, and passing by a vote of 4-0-0-1 Absent was Rhodes Rigsby
to Continue this item to May 14, 2024.
3. Consent Calendar
Mayor Dupper reminded the Council that Agenda Item 3I was pulled off the agenda.
Councilman Popescu requested to pull Agenda Item 3E.
City Manager Thaipejr explained that this is a reclassification of the Information Systems Analyst III position in both title and salary to Information Systems Manager and updated the salary schedule to reflect this change. He noted that the individual has been managing the Loma Linda Connected Communities program and the Information Systems Department.
Councilman Popescu expressed concern that the Council will be discussing later on the agenda budgetary issues that he doesn't feel comfortable approving this promotion at this stage. He said it may be something that can be revisited at a later time.
City Manager Thaipejr stated that the City's IT consultant moved to another position outside the City.
He noted of the highly competitive market, making it challenging for the City to recruit a replacement.
He stated that the City has the budget to fund this position and added that he is not filling three positions for available funding.
Mayor Dupper stated that he spoke with someone who was upset the LL Connected Communities service went down, but complimented the City for the customer service the LL Connected Communities provides.
Discussion resumed on Agenda Item 3I.
Motion by Ronald Dailey, seconded by Ovidiu Popescu, and passing by a vote of 4-0-0-1 Absent was Rhodes Rigsby
to Approve the Consent Calendar as submitted with the exception of Agenda Item 3E, which was voted on separately, and exception to Agenda Item 3I, which was removed from the agenda. 3A. Demands Registers - March 26 and April 9, 2024 [Finance]- 8:55 PM Approved the Demands Registers dated:
3B. Approval of Minutes 02-13-2024 [City Clerk]- 8:55 PM Minutes of February 13, 2024, were approved as submitted. 3C. Treasurer's Report - March 2024 [Finance]- 8:55 PM
Accepted the Treasurer's Report for March 2024 for filing. 3D. Fire Department's Activity Report - March 2024 [Fire]- 8:55 PM Accepted the Fire Department's Activity Report for March 2024 for filing. 3E. Council Bill #R-2024-12 - A Resolution to Amend the City Classification Plan and Salary Schedule [Human Resources] - 8:55 PM
Councilman Popescu stated that he would like to see more data and doesn't understand why the City cannot find an additional person for the IT Department.
March 26, 2024, with commercial demands totaling $1,118,390.82, and Payroll dated March 14, 2024, totaling $372,003.50; and
April 9, 2024, with commercial demands totaling $3,015,651.16, and Payroll dated March 28, 2024, totaling $368,642.43.
Mayor Dupper supported the request for more data as requested by Councilman Popescu; however, he noted that it is a struggle for local government, in these current times, to hire. He supported retaining valuable employees who contribute to the city's operations.
City Manager Thaipejr expressed concern if this individual were to leave the city. Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang asked questions about the job responsibility change.
Kyle MacGavin, Information Systems Analyst III, stated that he has been with the City for 9 years.
Since his Director left the City, he assumed all the IT Director duties including managing the Loma Linda Connected Communities Program (LLCCP) under his current job classification. He noted that he has 9 years of institutional knowledge, is thoroughly familiar with all configurations of the City's IT system, and personally knows all his LLCCP customers. Discussion ensued and the vote was taken.
Motion by Ronald Dailey, seconded by Phillip Dupper and passing by a vote of 3-1-0-1; Opposed by Ovidiu Popescu; Absent was Rhodes Rigsby to Approve and Adopt Council Bill #R-2024-12.
RESOLUTION NO. 3210
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMA LINDA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AMENDMENT TO THE CITY CLASSIFICATION PLAN AND SALARY SCHEDULE. 3F. Council Bill #R-2024-13 - A Resolution to Approve Tract Map No. 20417, Lennar Homes [Public Works]- 8:55 PM
Adopted Council Bill #R-2024-13
RESOLUTION NO. 3211
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMA LINDA, APPROVING FINAL TRACT MAP 20417 (North Side of Mission Road, East of SCE Easement) 3G. Council Bill #R-2024-14 - A Resolution to Approve Tract Map No. 20442, Lennar Homes [Public Works]- 8:55 PM
Adopted Council Bill #R-2024-14.
RESOLUTION NO. 3212
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMA LINDA, APPROVING FINAL TRACT MAP 20442 (Northwest Corner of Citrus Avenue and Bryn Mawr Avenue) 3H. Council Bill #R-2024-15 - A Resolution Approving SB 1 Project List for Fiscal Year 2024/25 [Public Works]- 8:55 PM
Adopted Council Bill #R-2024-15.
RESOLUTION NO. 3213
RESOLUTION ADOPTING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 FUNDED BY SB 1: THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017 AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 3174 3I. Notice of Completion for the Waterline Improvements on Beaumont Avenue (CIP 20- 657) [Public Works]- 8:55 PM
City Manager Thaipejr removed the item from the agenda to be rescheduled to a future date; no action taken.
3J. Notice of Completion of Installation for the Waterline Installation at Campus St. (CIP 23-667) [Public Works]- 8:55 PM
Accepted this project as complete and authorized recordation of the Notice of Completion. 3K. Notice of Completion of Installation of Ceramic Tile Mural at Leonard Bailey Park [Public Works]- 8:55 PM
Accepted this project as complete and authorized recordation of the Notice of Completion. 3L. Notice of Completion for Installation of Electrical Wiring for New Generator (CIP 21- 858) [Public Works]- 8:55 PM
Accepted as complete and authorized recordation of the Notice of Completion.
4. Old Business
4A. Council Bill #O-2024-03 - (Second Reading) Ordinance Modifying Water Rates and Repealing Ordinance No. 754 [Public Works]- 9:12 PM
City Manager Thaipejr presented a summary of the Water Rate Study stating that the proposed increases are to cover City costs for the next five years; that the increase is for water only, not sewer; that notices were mailed out to all residents and that the City received four letters opposed to the increase.
Motion by Ronald Dailey, seconded by Ovidiu Popescu, and passing by a vote of 4-0-0-1 Absent was Rhodes Rigsby
to Adopt Council Bill #O-2024-03, Waive the reading in its entirety and read by total only ORDINANCE NO. 780 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMA LINDA, CALIFORNIA, MODIFYING THE WATER RATES EFFECTIVE JUNE 1, 2024, AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 754
5. New Business
5A. Remove Mr. Heath Nicola from the Traffic Advisory Committee and replace with Mr.
Art Walls and other Board and Committee Vacancies [City Manager]- 9:18 PM City Manager Thaipejr stated that due to multiple meeting absences by member Heath Nicola, the Traffic Advisory Committee recommended removing member Heath Nicola and appointing Art Walls as his replacement. He noted that Art Walls had been a committee member for almost 20 years, but resigned for a short period. Recommend to declare vacancies for the Boards and Committees identified in the report and authorize to post a notice of the vacancies.
Motion by Ovidiu Popescu, seconded by Phillip Dupper, and passing by a vote of 4-0-0-1 Absent was Rhodes Rigsby
Art Walls to the Traffic Advisory Committee and remove Mr. Heath Nicola from the Traffic Advisory Committee due to meeting absences; To Declare vacancies due to member term expirations of the Budget Committee, Parks, Recreation and Beautification Committee, Traffic Advisory Committee, and Trails Development Committee as noted in the report; and authorized vacancy notice be posted. 5B. Council Direction Regarding Revenue Enhancement Taxation [City Manager]- 10:02 PM The City Council recessed at 9:19 pm to the Closed Session - Conference with Labor Negotiator (Government Code Section 54957.6), reconvened at 10:02 pm and resumed to Agenda Item 5B.
City Manager Thaipejr mentioned that the City hosted a budget workshop on March 13, 2024, to discuss the City's budget and gather input for revenue-generating suggestions. While there were good suggestions that the City will follow up on, he noted that the revenue might not be significant.
He explored the option of a sales tax increase, which could provide substantial revenue to support the city's operations. That option would require a general election vote. He also discussed the potential for increasing other taxes like a utility tax, TOT, etc. To move forward, he requested direction from Council to hire a consultant to conduct a study and assist the City in the process of placing a ballot measure in November to increase the sales tax. If it is not done this year, the City would have to wait until 2026.
Mayor Dupper recalled that the discussion at the workshop focused specifically on a potential sales tax increase to go on the ballot in November. He stated that while the City may have a balanced budget this year, the future projection of the City's budget is in a critical position. The City also lost some tax-generated businesses. That information was confirmed by the Budget Committee. He noted that Loma Linda has never had a sales tax increase. If it doesn't go on the ballot this year, they would have to wait until 2026.
City Manager Thaipejr stated that a one percent sales tax increase would generate approximately $7 - 7.5 million a year for the City, but would take a year to see the revenue.
Councilman Popescu stated that this is a huge issue that will impact the City for years and hasn't seen the budget to understand the City's current situation. He would need to see more budget data, why the revenues have gone down, and review some of the revenue options discussed at the workshop before he can make any decision. He noted that it is an important issue and should be discussed by a full Council.
Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang stated that she met with the City Manager and obtained and reviewed the budget from 2019 to the present. She stated that it is concerning to see the City's position with the budget. She believed the City must act quickly to preserve the quality of life that the community enjoys. While she doesn't particularly favor raising taxes, considering the city's projected budget and the rising cost of living, she noted that they need to explore multiple strategies. First would involve implementing a tax, second, she suggested establishing a Revenue Generating Committee. She conducts studies related to the Blue Zone and hosts visitors and media who come to Loma Linda to learn about it. She suggested the City capitalize on these opportunities to generate revenue. She also suggested looking at the cost of services.
Mayor Dupper stated that he spoke with the owner of the Stater Bros shopping center inquiring about his thoughts on a tax increase and the codes on drive-throughs. The owner informed him of three businesses (Dutch Bros., Chipotle, and Starbucks) that were interested in the vacant building that used to be the bookstore on their lot, but later was told it was not a good fit for their business.
The owner of Stater Bros. informed him that public safety is his big concern and that it will affect his business if the city cannot afford adequate public safety. He also noted that he spoke at the Chamber breakfast and shared this information. He didn't get any pushback from the business present. They have to look at how to make a business successful. He noted to Council that they are not voting on increasing the taxes, they are voting to put a measure on the ballot for the community to decide.
Karen M., Chamber of Commerce, stated that businesses would not be against a tax increase, because they understand it costs to do business in the City. If businesses understand what is at stake they wouldn't be opposed.
City Attorney Robbins stated that the City is requesting direction on whether the Council wants to look into what would be involved and the time to do that.
Discussion ensued on marketing the data and educating the public in this process. Mayor Dupper noted that other cities, such as Grand Terrace and Yucaipa are working on a sales tax increase measure that the City can reach out to.
Council Popescu stated that there are professionals who will handle this properly because if it is not done correctly, everything can be overturned. He noted that there is a statewide ballot in the November election that will reverse anything. He noted that it needs to be pursued in a way that may overcome those barriers. It must focus specifically on what the City wants it to fund.
Mayor Dupper concurred with Councilman Popescu regarding the ballot measure. Mayor Dupper noted when he leave his career that his goal on the Council when he finish out his carreer his goal is to leave the city as best as he can.
Motion by Ronald Dailey, seconded by Rhonda Spencer-Hwang, and passing by a vote of 3-1-0-1 Opposed by Ovidiu Popescu Absent was Rhodes Rigsby
to direct staff to begin exploring the timetable, collecting data, and developing a strategic plan for a sales tax increase
5C. Council Direction Regarding Drive-through Food Service [City Manager]- 10:46 PM City Manager Thaipejr is requesting direction from the City Council to consider repealing the Ordinance regarding the restriction on drive-through food service.
Councilman Popescu stated that this is an important issue and that he would prefer to continue the discussion until they have a full Council. He noted that this ban was a major issue for many people who emphasized keeping Loma Linda a healthy city. He stated that they need to inform those who attended that meeting that the City Council is discussing this matter again.
Mayor Dupper recalled the discussion, recollecting that the ban on drive-throughs was a compromise made when approving McDonald's. He pointed out the significant changes brought about by Covid in the way businesses operate. While there are businesses and restaurants that would fit Loma Linda's model, the drive-through restrictions deter those viable businesses.
Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang stated that she is okay with revisiting this matter. She said that it was her colleagues who came to the meeting, but admitted going through their drive-through for fries.
She pointed out the irony of having three smoke shops in the City while there are concerns about a fast-food establishment. She stated that they should look at the bigger picture, suggesting that certain food establishments could be a good fit for Loma Linda. She noted that they have to be strategic, because she is not okay with just any food establishment. It should align with the community and send the right message.
Mayor Dupper called for a vote on the matter. However, the item failed due to lack of a motion. 5D. Council Direction to discuss permitting emotional support dogs for the Fire Department- 10:58 PM
Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang distributed a packet of information, mentioning that she had requested to include this item on the agenda. She began by stating her expertise in epidemiology.
During a ride-along with the Fire Department, there was a discussion about a therapy dog. The packet contained studies demonstrating that firefighters regularly experience stress, trauma, and depression. More than half of them suffer from severe stress. If not managed properly, these issues will escalate, leading to extended stress leave and requiring other staff to cover for the affected employee. One strategy is the use of therapy animals. Studies show that petting a dog for 10 minutes relieves stress levels. Even though the City provides the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), only a very small percentage will use that service. In her work where she interviews individuals over the age of 100 years, she found that most of them have pets.
She outlined the cost of a therapy dog, which would entail a one-time upfront fee of $8,000 for the first year, covering expenses such as pet certification, food, and veterinary care. Following, the costs would be $2,000 annually which includes food and care. She noted the cost for one firefighter to be out on stress leave for three days with other staff covering the affected employee at the time and one-half can equal the annual cost of the therapy dog. She noted that the duration of stress leave taken by an employee is usually more than three days, it can be months. She emphasized the need to begin investing in prevention. It will save the City in the long run. Studies show therapy dogs work. There is an organization nearby that can assist in this process. The Union supports this.
Firefighter Nick Hernandez pointed out that the El Cajon Fire Department fostered this program and that the City can piggy-back on this program that has already been established.
Battalion Chief Nate Boucher spoke on behavioral health issues the City has experienced with fire employees who are out for months at a time regularly. During his research, they discovered agencies that had multiple therapy animals, which would be problematic for the City. They also discovered other stations that had a facility/therapy dog that served the station and helped mitigate these health concerns. They looked further into the therapy dog program at the City of El Cajon and how the training program is customized to meet the specific needs of the Fire Department. It has been a successful program. They can piggyback on this program. This will be in the Fire Station 365 days/yr.
Mayor Dupper looked at the podcast that was shared by Councilwoman Spencer-Hwang, and he supports the idea of a therapy dog.. He spoke with the Fire Chief in El Cajon regarding their program.
The Fire Chief explained the process to develop this program and shared their policy. He said it was informational. One thing is they have to be careful in choosing the correct breed of dog.
Chief Harker stated that he supports the therapy dog. He said that years ago mental health was not a big topic, but is discussed more now. He is an advocate for mental health. He thinks this is a good idea. They will work closely with Risk Management to develop a plan for allowing a therapy dog and present it to Council for review.
Motion by Ovidiu Popescu, seconded by Rhonda Spencer-Hwang, and passing by a vote of 4-0-0-1 Absent was Rhodes Rigsby
to report back to Council with more information on a therapy dog program on May 14, 2024.
6. Reports
6A. Reports of Council Members- 11:17 PM
Mayor Dupper reported on the City Council's difficult decision to close the pedestrian bridge at a previous meeting. Since then, he noted that the City has had to install a secured fence three times, because it had been torn down each time. He noted the City will be installing a wrought iron fence.
He pointed out that this is evidence of criminal activity. 6B. Reports Of Officers- 11:19 PM
No reports.
7. Adjournment