City Council Minutes 1 October 14, 2025
MISSION VIEJO MINUTES
City Council, Community Development Financing Authority, Successor Agency of the Community Development Agency, Housing Authority, and Library Board of Trustees*
October 14, 2025
A Regular Meeting of the City Council, the Community Development Financing Authority, the Successor Agency of the Community Development Agency, the Housing Authority, and the Library Board of Trustees of the City of Mission Viejo, California, was called to order by Mayor Ruesch at 5:00 p.m., on October 14, 2025, at 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo, California.
A complete copy of the agenda for the meeting containing all items as shown he rein was posted by 5:00 p.m. on October 9, 2025, on the outdoor bulletin board at City Hall. A copy was also posted at the Montanoso Recreation and Fitness Center, 25800 Montanoso Drive and Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, 24932 Veterans Way.
*All Board and Agency memberships are reflected in the title "Council Member."
Present: Council Member Goodell
Council Member Kelley
Council Member Vasquez
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum
Mayor Ruesch
Absent: None
Staff Present: Elaine Lister, City Manager
Jerry Hill, Assistant City Manager
John R. Harper, Interim City Attorney
Kimberly Schmitt, City Clerk
Renata Winter, Assistant City Clerk
RECESS AND RECONVENE MEETING
At the hour of 5:00 Mayor Ruesch recessed meeting. At the hour of 6:00 Mayor Ruesch reconvened the meeting with four Council Members present and Council Member Goodell absent.
INVOCATION: Council Member Kelley
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Council Member Vasquez
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PRESENTATIONS
P1. Adopted Headquarters Battalion of the 1st Marine Division Quarterly Recognition
Mayor Ruesch presented certificates of commendation to the "Marine of the Quarter" Lance Corporal Sawyer Carleton, and "Noncommissioned Officers of the Quarter" Corporal Jmari Mellerson.
P2. Proclaim the Week of October 19 through 25, 2025 To Be National Friends of Libraries Week
Mayor Ruesch presented proclamation to Pam Smith.
P3. Legislative Platform Update
Received update from Cori Takkinen and Elisa Arcidiacono from Townsend Public Affairs.
P4. Housing Legislation Update
Received update from Director of Community Development Larry Longenecker.
The Mayor announced that the City of Mission Viejo has officially partnered with the Netherlands Olympic Committee, making Mission Viejo the Dutch team's home base as they prepare for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This partnership is the result of years o f community effort and vision, dating back to when the city first learned about the 2028 Games. The Dutch chose Mission Viejo because of the community’s welcoming spirit and strong support. In recognition, Mayor Ruesch invited various community members, past and present —to stand and be acknowledged for their role in making this partnership possible. The Dutch Olympic Committee expressed gratitude for the city's hospitality and enthusiasm.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Sam Lewis, M.V.: Expressed heartfelt thanks to the Mayor and City Council for hosting the “Love Our Schools” event. He highlighted the event’s powerful sense of unity, noting that while diversity was present and appreciated, the real strength came from people coming together with a shared purpose— to support the community and local schools. He shared how the event allowed him to meet new people and form lasting friendships, emphasizing the importance of such opportunities to unite the community beyond individual differences.
Lucy Harmor, M.V.: Introduced the character trait of the month: Respect. She explained that respect involves admiration and high regard for others, and it includes many forms —such as self -respect, respect for others, authority, property, the environment, and the country. Respect is shown through actions like kindness, politen ess, empathy, and listening. She emphasized the Golden Rule —treat others the way you want to be treated—and shared her personal example of showing respect by picking up trash to protect the environment.
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Tom Moore, M.V.: Expressed concern over the long-standing issue of fragmented commercial property ownership at Marguerite Parkway and La Paz Road. He referenced the 2007 ULI report and the city’s subsequent Vision Plan, noting that despite years of planning and documentation, the core issue remains unresolved. He criticized past city leadership and staff for not addressing key legal and logistical questions. He also commented on a recent council meeting, commending the District 3 councilmember for raising questions about the financial implications of the city’s agreement with the Dutch Olympic Committee. While supportive of the Dutch partnership, he emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility and greater council accountability.
Jessica Jensen, M.V.: Jessica, representing Pack 703 , highlighted the pack’s growth since 2021 and requested continued city support for outreach. Sedric Campbell, Executive Director of Scouting America, shared that the organization serves over 46,000 youth in Orange County, including 1,000 in the Saddleback District —25% from Mission Viejo. Both thanked the city for supporting youth development through Scouting. Both thanked the city for supporting youth development through Scouting
June Anderson, M.V.: She thanked the City Council for its principled stance in opposing Proposition 50, calling it a threat to fair elections and representative government. She urged residents to learn more about the measure and join in defending voter rights. Lastly, she congratulated the city on receiving a million-dollar grant for the Oso Creek Trail and expressed interest in how the funds will benefit the Casta del Sol community.
Karen Warren, M.V.: She thanked the Mayor, City Council, and especially Councilmember Trish Kelley for opposing Proposition 50, calling it a threat to voter rights and election transparency. She urged residents to recognize the measure as a power grab and vote “No” to protect representative government. The comment also honored the legacy of Charlie Kirk, a tireless warrior for the importance of defending election integrity.
Carolyn Gatto, M.V.: She thanked Captain Ivins for arranging police presence during a peaceful protest on October 1. She raised several questions about the Netherlands Olympic Team’s training in Mission Viejo, including who is covering living expenses, where athletes will stay, and whether public access to the Marguerite Aquatics Complex will be affected. She also inquired about the city's spending to welcome the team. Lastly, the speaker voiced support for Proposition 50, describing it as a necessary response to the inept administration in Washington and urged others to vote “Yes.”
Peggy O’Neill, M.V.: She emphasized the importance of restoring checks and balances among the three branches of government, criticizing Congress for ceding too much power to the executive branch. She urged support for Proposition 50, describing it as a temporary but necessary measure to counter partisan redistricting efforts in other states, particularly Texas. Lastly, she argued that Prop 50 would help preserve fair representation and uphold the founders’ vision of a balanced government.
Cathy Palmer, M.V.: She raised concerns and questions regarding the Los Osos Center project , including when the public will receive an update, the impact of ongoing lawsuits, and the cost of consultant studies. They noted that the city has paused the project to allow for further due diligence and to explore a potential public-private partnership. She also inquired about the RFQ process for the former Stein Mart building and suggested the city consider mixed-use developments such as residential above retail—for underperforming shopping centers.
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Lynn Holmes, M.V.: She expressed disappointment with the City Council’s public opposition to Proposition 50, urging a more balanced presentation of both sides to allow residents to make informed decisions. She argued that Prop 50 is a temporary, voter -approved response to federal overreach and partisan redistricting. She also called for greater focus on revitalizing downtown Mission Viejo, citing vacant buildings and underused spaces. She encouraged the city to invest in beautification, attract new businesses, and prepare the area to make a positive impression —especially ahead of the Netherlands Olympic Team’s arrival.
Stacy Holmes, M.V.: Voiced support for Proposition 50, favoring redistricting maps ratified by voters over those drawn unilaterally by state legislatures, as seen in Texas. He criticized the City Council for not addressing partisan redistricting in other states and highlighted the disproportionate federal tax contributions made by California. Argued that Prop 50 is a temporary, voter -approved measure to ensure fairness and balance in congressional representation and called for stronger advocacy from California’s elected officials to protect the state’s interests.
Kristen Wilcox, M.V.: She questioned the Mayor’s decision to maintain the current voting structure, despite public input favoring randomized, staggered district terms and more seats on the general election ballot. She criticized the Council for disregarding resident feedback and highlighted Councilmember Vasquez’s data showing higher voter turnout in general elections. She also expressed frustration over the Council’s decision to lower flags in honor of Charlie Kirk, stating it appeared to prioritize presidential directives over your constituents.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, seconded by Council Member Kelley, to approve the Consent calendar outlined below.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Goodell, Kelley, Ruesch, and Vasquez
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
1. City Council Minutes
Approved the Minutes for the regular City Council Meeting of September 23, 2025, as presented.
2. General Check Register Dated September 12, 2025, in the Amount of $2,936,677.08 Ratified the accompanying check register.
3. General Check Register Dated September 19, 2025, in the Amount of $1,636,801.06 Ratified the accompanying check register.
4. General Check Register Dated September 26, 2025, in the Amount of $533,587.25
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Ratified the accompanying check register.
5. Golf Check Register Dated September 12, 2025, in the Amount of $268,234.21 Ratified the accompanying check register.
6. Golf Check Register Dated September 19, 2025, in the Amount of $154,809.75 Ratified the accompanying check register.
7. Golf Check Register Dated September 26, 2025, in the Amount of $19,470.31 Ratified the accompanying check register.
8. City Treasurer’s Monthly Report for August 2025
Received and filed the report.
9. Mission Viejo Community Development Financing Authority (MVCDFA) Treasurer’s Monthly Report for August 2025
Received and filed the report.
10. Successor Agency of the Community Development Agency Treasurer’s Monthly Report for August 2025
Received and filed the report.
11. Mission Viejo Housing Authority (MVHA) Treasurer’s Monthly Report for August 2025 Received and filed the report.
12. Tyler Technologies Munis ERP and EnerGov EP&L Annual Software Renewals
Approved purchase orders to Tyler Technologies, Inc. for the 2026 one-year renewal of software licensing and support for (1) Munis ERP Financial, Human Resources, and Payroll system in the amount of $86,457 (January 14, 2026 - January 13, 2027) and (2) Ene rGov EP&L Land Management System in the amount of $85,466 (July 16, 2026 - July 15, 2027).
MAYOR’S, COMMISSION, COMMITTEE REPORTS AND ACTIONS
13. Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) Report
Received report from Council Member Kelley.
14. Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) Report
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Received written report from Council Member Bucknum.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
City Manager Lister provided an update on the Los Osos project, noting that while the original development plans were attractive, several challenges have emerged since the project began around 2017–2019. These include the changing market conditions and major store closures (e.g., Big Lots, Michaels, CVS) , l egal complications due to outdated CC&Rs from the 1970s , r ising interest and construction costs, and limited interest from potential development partners. She stated that a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) has been issued to attract a broader range of potential partners and explore innovative development options, including public-private partnerships or possible property sales. The RFQ focuses on identifying experienced partners, not detailed proposals (which would come in a later RFP phase). She indicated that the Responses are due by October 17.
Assistant City Manager Hill gave a progress report on the CAL FIRE grant-funded wildfire mitigation efforts. He stated that the crews are actively clearing vegetation and creating defensible space in the Wilderness Glen area, including behind homes near Trabuco and Via Noveno with expanded clearance that CAL FIRE approved for an additional 70 feet of clearance (totaling 170 feet) behind homes on Via Noveno and Via Santiago. Environmental surveys have been completed, and CEQA documentation is expected to be finalized by the end of October. He stated that the next step will be to continue along Los Alisos to Trabuco and into nearby open spaces, including behind a cul-de-sac area. Future Funding is in the second-round CAL FIRE grant application which was submitted on October 1 for the maximum amount of $950,000, aiming to address fire hazards like dead palm trees in open spaces.
Lastly, he said the goats were used successfully for vegetation management in Jeronimo Open Space.
The effort was effective in rough terrain, and two baby goats were born during the project.
CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS
Interim City Attorney Harper responded to a public comment made earlier regarding the ongoing litigation across the street. He said the status of ongoing litigation cannot be discussed publicly due to the Brown Act, which protects litigation privilege. These matters are handled in closed session with the City Council to avoid waiving that privilege. Public discussion of litigation could compromise legal protections.
COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS AND ACTIONS
15. Council Member Reports of Events and Activities Attended ~ AB1234
By consensus, the City Council Members acknowledged their event and activities calendars as presented in the report and agreed to provide any changes to the City Clerk for the public record.
Council Member Goodell
Council Member Goodell said they had a very full schedule during the recent visit from our Dutch partners, and a lot took place over the course of their stay. Since then, several questions have come up regarding logistics and financial arrangements. While I can answer some of them, I’d prefer not to
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provide incomplete or potentially inaccurate information. With that in mind, I’d like to request that Mr.
Nix provide a report at our next meeting to clarify: How the visit was organized and conducted , who covered which expenses, details of the agreement, including the $1 million commitment from the Dutch delegation, and any city-sponsored events or contributions. He understood that the Dutch delegation is covering their own expenses, including lodging and meals, as outlined in the agreement. They hosted one community event , which was a barbecue at the lake and the city may be covering some transportation costs in the long term, as previously agreed. Overall, it seems to be a fair and balanced partnership. Council Member Goodell indicated that d uring their visit, they also held a special chair dedication ceremony at Lakeside Park (Alicia & Marguerite) in memory of Jeff Lauder , a longtime resident, community leader, and one of the original advocates for the lake. Jeff had a meaningful connection with the Dutch team, and their executives joined us to honor him at the event. On a personal note, he missed a few of the weekend activities because he and his wife w elcomed their seventh grandchild, Ruby Lee Goodell, born Friday at Mission Hospital. This is their sixth granddaughter, and they are thrilled.
Council Member Kelley
Council Member Kelley attended Coffee Conversations with Senator Catherine Blakespear, who shared updates from Sacramento and continues to advocate for our city. She also attended two Eagle Scout projects , one at Minaya Park for fence repainting and cleanup, and another at Crucero Park, which is under renovation. Thanks to Br yan Zahn for his great work with the Scouts for their contributions are a real asset to Mission Viejo. She attended the Jeff Lauder Chair Dedication at Lakeside Park, a touching tribute joined by members of Team Netherlands. On October 3, she was at the Dutch agreement signing at Lake Mission Viejo , a proud moment for our city. On October 5, the city hosted the first Mission Viejo Track Meet with Team Netherlands. On October 11, she had a full day with: Love Our Schools volunteer event, Fire Station 24 Open House, and the Animal Shelter Fall Fest & Pumpkin Patch . Council Member Kelley also attended the League of California Cities Conference in Long Beach, great sessions and networking. Looking ahead, she reminded residents not to miss the Walk Against Drugs this Saturday, starting at 8:00 a.m. at Mission Viejo High School, followed by a fair at Oso Viejo Park. She said it’s a great community event for all ages. Lastly, she said there’s always something happening in Mission Viejo so check the city website and get involved!
Council Member Vasquez
Council Member Vasquez attended Coffee Conversations with Senator Catherine Blakespear and appreciated the update on her work in Sacramento. The next evening, she went to the Movie in the Park at Napoli Park and it was a lively crowd for Lilo & Stitch, and her youngest had a great time with her friends. On September 28, she attended Beats, Bids & Boogie for MS at the Norman P. Murray Center, a great event with an impressive auction turnout. She also attended the memorial service for our former City Attorney on October 3, which was a meaningful opportunity to meet his family and offer condolences. That same day, she supported her daughter’s school Book Fair, and the next day, she participated in the city’s E-Waste event. Over the weekend, she visited her oldest at Cal State Long Beach for a family event with games, food, and a women’s volleyball game. She also attended a memorial for a former neighbor and friend who passed away from Alzheimer’s. Later that week, she also attended the League of California Cities Conference in Long Beach. she gathered some great ideas she hopes to share with Elaine and Jerry soon.
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Finally, her family took a short trip to Sonoma where they visited the Charles M. Schulz Museum (which we call the Snoopy Museum) and the Jelly Belly Factory. Her youngest had a blast and is still drawing what she saw there. It was a quick but memorable trip, and she made it back to school Monday morning!
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum attended the Jeff Lauder Chair Dedication , a touching tribute to someone instrumental in building our Dutch partnership. It was meaningful to see his family and members of the Dutch delegation there. The Dutch agreement signing was a success, and their delegation was impressed by the city’s hospitality and facilities. This partnership benefits our residents, businesses, and local economy especially as we look ahead to the Olympics. The Love Our Schools event was fantastic as she helped with painting at Silverado and Mont evideo and appreciated the community turnout. She also stopped by the Animal Services Fall Fest and the OCFA Open House with her dog, Bert. She attended Saddleback College’s Foundation fundraiser at their Advanced Technology Center, an impressive event showcasing their top -tier programs. Looking ahead, she pointed out upcoming events next Saturday: Night Market, Pet Vaccine Clinic, Prescription Take-Back Day, Pumpkin Dive, and the Día de los Muertos Festival. Lastly, she supports efforts to improve neglected business centers and appreciates the community’s input. Also, she clarified that when the President orders flags at half- staff, the city follows that tradition.
Mayor Ruesch
Mayor Ruesch stated that o ne of the great things about serving as Mayor is knowing that even if you can’t attend every event, someone else is always there representing the city. He appreciates that teamwork. He highlighted the following: The Track Meet Councilmember Kelley mentioned was the first since COVID. It was once a popular event, and it’s great to see it returning , the final Symphony on the Go performance was held at Melinda Park, which was always a fantastic experience. Our partnership with Pacific Symphony is something special. He recently met with Simon Property Group as part of his goal to reconnect with major businesses in the city. He indicated that w ith the Olympics on the horizon, the city is working to build a more cohesive business community that can share in the excitement and opportunities ahead . He closed his comments w ith the following thought:
“What’s your plan? We all have goals, whether it’s a job, health, family, or something else. But how do you get there? Think of your goal as a mountain peak. You need a plan, a roadmap to reach it. Break it down into steps. Make it measurable. Stay focused. And when you reach that summit, celebrate your success. As I often say: If you don’t know where you’re going, maybe you’ve already arrived . So tomorrow, write down your goal and take that first step.”
ADJOURNMENT
At the hour of 8:08 pm., with no further business to come before the City Council at this session, Mayor Ruesch adjourned the meeting in memory of Ginny Taylor, to Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Ginny was a dedicated volunteer with the Senior Core of Retirees (SCOR) who served the City of Mission Viejo for 20 years.
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Kimberly Schmitt, City Clerk
Approved at the meeting of October 28, 2025