City Council Minutes 1 October 28, 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 28, 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 6:00 p.m., on October 28, 2025, at 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo, California.
A complete copy of the agenda for the meeting containing all items as shown herein was posted by 5:00 p.m. on October 23, 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 Kelley
Council Member Vasquez
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum
Mayor Ruesch
Absent: Council Member Goodell
Staff Present: Elaine Lister, City Manager
Jerry Hill, Assistant City Manager
John R. Harper, Interim City Attorney
Ellis Chang, Director of Administrative Services
Kimberly Schmitt, City Clerk
Renata Winter, Assistant City Clerk
INVOCATION: Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Council Member Kelley
PRESENTATIONS
P1. Recognition of Mission Viejo Nadadores Swim and Dive Team Mayor Ruesch presented certificates of commendation.
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PUBLIC COMMENTS
Carlos Pianelli, M.V.: Stated he supports Proposition 50 because it’s a necessary response to Texas’ partisan redistricting, which added five Republican congressional seats without public input. Prop 50 allows California to temporarily redraw its own maps to maintain fairness in Congress. He said t his measure is temporary ending in 2030 and reaffirms our commitment to independent redistricting after the next census. He voiced his concern s about the deployment of federal election monitors in California, which appears politically motivated. Lastly, he stated Vote YES on Prop 50 to protect fair representation and defend democracy.
Tom Moore, M.V.: He spoke in favor of the 2011 shift of redistricting power to California’s independent Citizens Redistricting Commission and warned against reversing it for political reasons.
While California is part of a national union, when cooperation fails, the state must stand and be heard.
He expressed likely regret over his vote on Proposition 50, regardless of the outcome, and requested that the City Council publicly share Mission Viejo’s results, given Councilmember Kelley’s public opposition at the September 23, 2025, Council Meeting.
Stacy Holmes, M.V.: He asked the council how do they want to be remembered—as silent bystanders while injustices happen in Mission Viejo? Local businesses are closing, immigrants live in fear, and families are being torn apart. Legal residents are afraid to attend court check -ins, and neighbors are forcibly removed in the middle of the night. He pointed out Presidents Biden and Obama oversaw mass deportations, but they also advocated for immigration reform and programs like DACA. Lastly, he asked the Council if they will raise their voices or stay silent and complicit.
Lynn Holmes, M.V.: She spoke on comments from a past City Council meeting regarding the upcoming election framework and term lengths. She felt the Mayor’s comments following public input struck her as dismissive, which she found concerning. She stated that respect for community voices is essential in local government and democratic principles call for fairness, transparency, and accountability which are values she hopes to see more clearly reflected in future discussions.
Lynn Hillman, M.V .: Asked the city council with follow -up questions about surveillance cameras installed around the city. She is questioning the following: t he reasoning behind each camera’s placement; how placement decisions are made and whether there’s a written policy ; whether cameras will be moved; who authorizes and reports such changes, who is responsible for managing the footage (collection, maintenance, destruction, and sharing), and who can access the footage, what authorization is required, and whether that authorization must be in writing and made public. She has also requested written answers before the next meeting so the information can be included in the agenda.
Sam Lewis, M.V.: He emphasized the importance of unity and mutual respect, even when people strongly disagree. He expressed appreciation for the passionate yet respectful tone of the evening’s discussions, noting that while he may not agree with all viewpoints, the values sincerity and open dialogue. He encouraged continued respectful disagreement and reminded everyone to stay humble and open to the possibility of being wrong. He closed by expressing gratitude for the city and those who participated.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
Items 8 and 10 were pulled for separate discussions.
Motion made by Council Member Kelley, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, to approve the Consent Calendar outlined below.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Kelley, Ruesch, and Vasquez
NOES: None
ABSENT: Goodell
1. City Council Minutes
Approved the Minutes for the regular City Council Meeting of October 14, 2025, as presented.
2. General Check Register Dated October 3, 2025, in the Amount of $1,433,158.16 Ratified the accompanying check register.
3. General Check Register Dated October 10, 2025, in the Amount of $945,179.48 Ratified the accompanying check register.
4. Golf Check Register Dated October 3, 2025, in the Amount of $166,146.71 Ratified the accompanying check register.
5. Golf Check Register Dated October 10, 2025, in the Amount of $425,302.98 Ratified the accompanying check register.
6. 2027 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Adopted Resolution 25-34 Certifying that the City of Mission Viejo has the Resources to Fund the Projects in the FY's 2026/27 - 2031/32 Transportation Improvement Program and Affirming its Commitment to Implement all Projects in the Program.
7. Orange County Transportation Authority 2025 -2026 Comprehensive Transportation Funding Program Call-for-Projects
(1) Adopted Resolution 25 -35 Approving the Submittal of the Oso Parkway Corridor Improvement Project to the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) for Funding Under the Competitive Measure M2 Regional Transportation Signal Synchronization Program (Project P), and (2) directed staff to transmit Resolution to OCTA, in conjunction with the City's funding application for said project.
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9. Marguerite Parkway Corridor Traffic Signal Synchronization Project (CIP 24260)
Awarded the construction contract for the subject project to Ferreira Coastal Construction Company (A25-35) in the amount of $1,309,856.00.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
8. Mission Viejo Library Display Schedule for 2026
Director of Library Services Genesis Hansen presented the staff report.
Motion made by Council Member Vasquez, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, to a pprove Mission Viejo Library Display Schedule for 2026.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Kelley, Ruesch, and Vasquez
NOES: None
ABSENT: Goodell
10. Two-Year BBQ Music Fest Event Support and Promotion Services Agreement and Request for an Exemption to the "No Alcoholic Beverage Consumption" Regulation at City Facilities for a Community Event
Director of Recreation and Community Services Mark Nix presented the staff report.
Tom Moore, M.V .: He stated that he is not opposing tonight’s agreement. As a nearby resident, he asked the City to pause similar multi- day events in this area for at least two years to give neighbors time to reflect on the impact. He enjoyed the event, but unlike shorter ones, it lasted three full days and nights, and the noise was significant. He stated he supports the event and is asking for consideration for those living nearby.
Motion made by Council Member Kelley, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, to a pprove a two- year event support and promotion services agreement with O Entertainment (A25- 36) for the annual BBQ Music Fest event, as recommended by the Community Services Commission, and an exemption to the "No Alcohol Beverage Consumption" Regulation at City facilities for a community event.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Kelley, Ruesch, and Vasquez
NOES: None
ABSENT: Goodell
PUBLIC HEARINGS
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11. Ordinance Amending Mission Viejo Municipal Code Sections 2.04.170 c) (1), (c) (3) and (d) Establishing Terms of Office and Election Dates for the City Council Districts
Interim City Attorney presented the staff report.
Mayor Ruesch opened the Public Hearing at 7:01 pm.
Cathy Schlicht, M.V.: She voiced strong concerns over the City Council’s recent decision on assigning terms to new voting districts. She stated that the public supported a random selection process to ensure fairness but alleged that the Mayor violated Council policy by initiating discussion and making a motion that gave his own district a four -year term. She said this appears to be politically motivated, allowing Councilmembers Kelley and Goodell to run again in 2028.
She criticized the justification of “continuity” as self-serving and called for the September 23 vote to be voided, urging the Council to respect the public’s request and avoid manipulating the election process for personal gain.
With no further comments Mayor Ruesch closed the Public Hearing at 7:04 pm.
Council Members provided input.
Motion made by Council Member Kelley, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, to i ntroduce Ordinance 25-359 Amending Mission Viejo Municipal Code Sections 2.04.170 c) (1), (c) (3) and (d) Establishing Terms of Office and Election Dates for the City Council Districts.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Kelley, and Ruesch
NOES: Vasquez
ABSENT: Goodell
MAYOR’S, COMMISSION, COMMITTEE REPORTS AND ACTIONS
12. Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Report Received written report.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
Director of Recreation and Community Services Mark Nix shared an update on the Sports and Events Tourism efforts—particularly the Olympic initiatives. He emphasized that this is not just a city effort, it’s a community effort. The City has built strong partnerships with Mission Hospital, Lake Mission Viejo Association, Saddleback College, our school districts, all three local hotels, the Chamber of Commerce, churches, the Nadadores, Supervisor Don Wagner’s office, Oso Creek Golf Course, and the Orange County Sports Commission. Local businesses and venues are also stepping up. To date, the City has welcomed over 13 international groups for tours. Teams from Germany, Hungary, and Slovakia have explored city facilities, including the Marguerite Aquatics Complex, Lake Mission Viejo, and Saddleback College. He outlined the key milestones: In August 2024, we proudly secured
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the Netherlands Olympic team for pre -training. Soon, after, the USA, Australian, and French diving teams committed to training here. Just this month, we hosted 30 Dutch coaches and staff and signed a multiyear agreement through 2028. Germany has confirmed their diving team will train here. He announces that just today—Canada officially signed on. The city has invested approximately $100,000 per year, totaling $194,000 over the past 2.5 years. The city has already raised over $30,000 through early fundraising, and anticipates more through ticketed events, fan zones, and merchandise. The economic impact is significant. The Dutch team alone is expected to bring $1 million in local spending—on hotels, food, training venues, and entertainment. The Dutch team visits will host Athlete demonstrations, Matches, and Autograph and photo opportunities. The city is working with the Dutch on a legacy project—something meaningful that will benefit our community long after the games. He shared that the city is launching a sponsorship and donor program, confirming facility needs, and securing permits. The city is working closely with schools and partners to minimize disruption and ensure no one is displaced. Lastly, he introduced the new Olympic-themed bear mascot —a creative blend of the California state bear and Dutch tulips, with a heart design that subtly nods to the Olympic rings. It’s a symbol of unity, pride, and the journey ahead.
CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS
Interim City Attorney Harper had nothing to report.
COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS AND ACTIONS
13. 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 Kelley
Council Member Kelley announced that today is National First Responders Day, a time to recognize the service and sacrifice of those who protect our communities. Special thanks were extended to OCFA Chief Maule and Police Services Chief Captain Ivins, along with their teams, for their daily dedication and bravery. She attended the Tee It Up for Marines Golf Tournament which saw generous community support, raised significant funds, and included participation from the Marine Adoption Committee, City staff, and numerous sponsors and golfers. Council Member Kelley gave special thanks to Mr. Nix and his team for organizing a fantastic event. She shared that the City also celebrated the 37th Annual Walk Against Drugs, led by TJ Robertson and the Police Services team. The event featured a children’s author as keynote speaker and brought together students and families to take a stand against drug use. It was a meaningful and well-attended event. Council Member Kelley attended the Pumpkin Diving event that was held at the Sierra Recreation Center, offering a unique seasonal activity for local children. She also attended the Night Market on October 18 at the North Paseo which was another great success. She expressed that these markets, held on the third Saturday of each month from 5–9 PM, continue to grow in popularity and community participation. Lastly, she commented that she attended t he Día de los Muertos Festival at the Norman P. Murray Center on October 25 which drew an impressive crowd, with full parking and packed attendance. She gave kudos to the Mission Viejo Activities Committee for organizing such a vibrant and successful cultural celebration.
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Council Member Vasquez
Council Member Vasquez request ed that City staff provide an update on the RFQ for the Stein Mart building at our next meeting. Additionally, she asked staff to explore adding a “Know Your Rights” section to the City website like Santa Ana and Oceanside have implemented similar pages, and it could be especially helpful if offered in multiple languages. She commented on the barbecue event, and agreed it’s not about making money, but she thinks it’s important to ask the tough questions —how much will it cost, a nd where will the revenue go? She stated it’s a great idea, but as a built -out city entering what she calls our “retirement years,” the city needs to plan carefully and stay within budget, just like in personal retirement planning. Council Member Vasquez commented on the Walk Against Drugs, and how she loves how it brings the community together. She said the Health Fair is always fun and well attended. She pointed out that participation seems to have declined —likely due to COVID and that maybe it’s time to reframe the event, perhaps as a Walk Against Hate or Bullying, to better reflect current community concerns and attract broader interest. She did attend the Walk Against Drugs with her youngest and her husband—the Health Fair afterward was fantastic. She also went to the Women in Business Luncheon hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, which was lovely, and the keynote speaker did a great job. Lastly, she attended the Día de los Muertos event —what a turnout! She was amazed by the crowd. Kudos to everyone involved, especially the Recreation Department and the Mission Viejo Activities Committee.
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum emphasized the importance of continuing the Walk Against Drugs, noting that drug issues persist and evolve. As Chair of the Sober Living Home Task Force, she highlighted the growing number of sober living homes and the need for the City to remain a leader in drug prevention.
She also suggested re -engaging schools through contests to boost participation. Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum reminded the public about key upcoming events . Election Day is next week, and she encouraged everyone to vote. She noted the City Council’s opposition to Proposition 50, which would split Mission Viejo into two districts. She noted that Veterans Day falls on the same day as the next Council meeting and that t here will be a morning ceremony at the Community Center and Veterans Plaza. She stated that the Veterans Day concert hosted by Supervisor Don Wagner will take place on Sunday, November 9, from 1–4 PM at Kershaw Garden, featuring notable performers. Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum also thanked Mission Viejo Christian Churc h for providing transportation for visiting teams, showcasing a great example of community partnership. Lastly, she shared that she will be traveling next week for a family event in Buffalo, with a stop in Washington, D.C. She plans to visit the office of the Congresswoman Young Kim and working with Townsend Public Affairs to arrange meetings on transportation issues with Senate offices.
Mayor Ruesch
Mayor Ruesch reported that on October 17, he met with Team Slovakia, whom he had previously connected with in Paris. They are exploring opportunities to participate in the LA 2028 Olympics, and he expressed enthusiasm about seeing them again. The next day, he participated in the Walk Against Drugs, even running part of it. On October 19, he represented the City at the 20th Anniversary of Katarina’s Club at the Nixon Library. He highlighted the impactful work of Bruno Serato, who has provided thousands of meals to children in need through his charity. Mayor Ruesch also attended the Women in Business Luncheon, celebrating the strength and success of local women entrepreneurs,
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and enjoyed the Día de los Muertos event—dressing up and having fun with the community. He regularly attends the Chamber of Commerce “Stake Breaker” meetings and is working closely with local businesses to help them prepare for opportunities tied to the 2028 Olympics, including co- branding and sponsorships. Mayor Ruesch stated he has been meeting with major local stakeholders like the hospital, Saddleback College, and Amazon to explore how they can participate. Lastly, he closed with a motivational message encouraging everyone to set clear goals and make a plan, sharing a story about how defining specific steps can turn aspirations into action.
ADJOURNMENT
At the hour of 7:52 pm, with no further business to come before the City Council at this session, Mayor Ruesch adjourned the meeting to Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
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Kimberly Schmitt, City Clerk
Approved at the meeting of November 11, 2025