MISSION VIEJO MINUTES
City Council, Community Development Financing Authority, Successor Agency of the Community Development Agency, Housing Authority, and Library Board of Trustees*
November 11, 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 6:09 p.m., on November 11, 2025, at 200 Civic Center, Mission Vijo, California.
A complete copy of the agenda for the meeting containing all items as shown herein was posted by 5:00 p.m. on November 6, 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
Ellis Chang, Director of Administrative Services
Kimberly Schmitt, City Clerk
Renata Winter, Assistant City Clerk
CLOSED SESSION
CS1. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation. Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9: Janice Kronik Gath, et. al v. Mission Viejo OCSC Case No. 30-2024- 01376969-CU-MC-CJC
CS2. City Representation of Legal Services: Public Employee Appointment and Public Employment: City Attorney Position
CS3. Public Employee Annual Performance Evaluation- [Government Code § 54957(b)(1)| Titles: City Manager and Assistant City Manager
City Council Minutes 1 November 11, 2025
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION AND RECONVENE
At the hour of 5:01pm Mayor Ruesch recessed to Closed Session. At the hour of 6:09 pm Mayor Ruesch reconvened the meeting with all five Council Members present.
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION
Interim City Attorney Harper announced there was no reportable action on items CS1 and CS3.
However, concerning CS2, the Council decided to establish an Ad Hoc Committee composed of Mayor Ruesch and Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, who, along with City Manager Lister, will solicit requests for qualifications (RFQs) and conduct an analysis at a later date.
INVOCATION: Council Member Goodell
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Ruesch
Mayor Ruesch announced the hopeful reopening of the government tomorrow, highlighting the critical importance of raising awareness about food insecurity. He stated an updated Community Resource page has been created to guide anyone in need of food assistance, stressing the belief that no one should go hungry. He noted that many food pantries are currently serving more people than ever and are running low on supplies. He encouraged residents, if able, to contribute to these food pantries, whether through monetary donations or food items. With Thanksgiving and Christmas approaching, Mayor Ruesch expressed a desire for the Mission Viejo community to unite in efforts to help restore the supplies of these pantries.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Kilaia Ferrer, M.V.: Expressed her gratitude for veterans and their safeguarding of freedoms, including free speech. She shared her enthusiasm for the annual barbecue as an excellent opportunity for family bonding. However, she raised concerns about the two-year BBQ music festival proposal that requests an exemption for alcohol consumption at city facilities. She stressed that community health and wellness should take precedence over revenue, citing statistics from the California Health Care Foundation. She emphasized that the community should oppose both drugs and alcohol at public events.
Stacy Holmes, M.V.: Expressed his concern about the current administration's potential cuts to SNAP food benefits, impacting 40 million Americans. He shared a personal story about his own health struggles and the high costs of medical treatment, emphasizing the importance of health insurance in his own life. He reflected on the lack of a comprehensive Republican healthcare plan even after a decade advocating for universal health care, which is considered a human right in several other countries. Lastly, he questioned why such issues persist in the wealthiest country, leading to millions being deprived of food and health care, while urging listeners to raise their voices against these injustices.
Victor Moscoso, Moreno Valley: Expressed his appreciation for veterans. Addressed issues regarding his daughter's registration at Saddleback Valley School District and La Paz Intermediate School, claiming that an incomplete caregiver's authorization document was improperly used. He identified City Council Minutes 2 November 11, 2025
himself as the biological father and requested the school to cancel the caregiver's authorization, but the school did not respond. He stated that he obtained full legal and physical custody of his daughter from a Riverside County superior court on August 21 and communicated this to the school, yet the caregiver's status remained unchanged. He is in ongoing discussions with the sheriff's department and referenced an Orange County judge's order for his daughter's return. He concluded by asserting that the school district violated his rights and expressed his intention to keep the City Council updated on the situation.
Grace Van Boerum, M.V.: A Sophomore at Capistrano Valley High School and a member of the Community of Character Committee, introduced this month's character trait - Thankfulness.
Tom Moore, M.V.: Spoke on the Oso Creek Trail, referencing a million-dollar state grant and a $500,000 federal grant allocated for the project. He questioned whether these funds are specifically designated for maintenance and improvements, and emphasized the importance of obtaining citizen input on how the funds are used, particularly for enhancements south of La Paz. Lastly, he expressed concerns regarding proposed changes, such as bridges, urging caution to avoid repeating pas management errors and advised leaving the area undisturbed until a thorough management plan is it place.
Jena Minnick-Bull, M.V.: CEO of South Coast Conservatory, spoke of the upcoming Winter Festival, scheduled for December 13-21 at Capistrano Valley High School, featuring three productions: "The Nutcracker," "Olas Holiday Adventure," and "Let It Snow." She expressed a desire to meet with council members to discuss arts and workforce development and concluded by encouraging everyone to attend the festival and recognize the positive impact of the arts on youth development.
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
City Council Minutes
Approved the Minutes for the regular City Council Meeting of October 28, 2025, as presented.
General Check Register Dated October 17, 2025, in the Amount of $3,850,293.76.
Ratified the accompanying check register.
3. General Check Register Dated October 24, 2025, in the Amount of $785,333.51 City Council Minutes 3 November 11, 2025
Ratified the accompanying check register.
Golf Check Register Dated October 17, 2025, in the Amount of $37,002.80 Ratified the accompanying check register.
5. Golf Check Register Dated October 24, 2025, in the Amount of $14,257.58 Ratified the accompanying check register.
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.
Adopted 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.
7. City Treasurer's Monthly Report for September 2025
Received and filed.
Mission Viejo Community Development Financing Authority (MVCDFA) Treasurer's Monthly Report for September 2025
Received and filed.
Sor esser Age ny of the Community Development Agency Treasurer's Monthly Report Received and filed.
10. Mission Viejo Housing Authority (MVHA) Treasurer's Monthly Report for September 2025
Received and filed.
11. City Treasurer's Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2024/25 Received and filed the accompanying City Treasurer's Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2024/25.
12. Mission Viejo Community Development Financing Authority (MVCDFA) Treasurer's Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2024/25
Received and filed the accompanying MVCDFA Treasurer's Annual Report for FY 2024/25.
City Council Minutes 4 November 11, 2025
13. Mission Viejo Housing Authority (MVHA) Treasurer's Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2024/25
Received and filed accompanying MVHA Treasurer's Report for FY 2024/25.
14. Annual Measure M2 Expenditure Report for Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2025 Mission Resolution 25-36 Adoping the Measure M2 Expenditure Report for the City of
15. Year End Financial Report for the City of Mission Viejo - Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2025
Received and filed.
16. Year End Financial Report for the City of Mission Viejo Golf Course Fund for Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2025
Received and filed.
17. Transmittal of Pre-PARE Trustee Report for the quarter ending September 30, 2025 Received and filed the accompanying Pre-PARE Trustee Report for the quarter ending September 30, 2025.
18. Fiscal Year 2024/25 Close Out Report and Budget Adjustments for Certain Revenue and Expenditure Accounts
Adopted Resolution 25-37 Ratifying Adjustments to the FY 2024/25 Operating and Capital Budget for Certain Revenue and Expenditure Accounts.
19. Purchase One (1) Electric Cart and Three (3) Shade Structures for the Animal Services Department
Adopted Resolution 25-38 Amending the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget to Authorize the Purchase of One (1) Electric Cart and Three (3) Shade Structures in the Animal Services Fund.
20. Granada Park, Spendlove Park & Valyermo Park Play Area Resilient Surfacing Renovation
(1) Awarded a contract to Robertson Industries, Inc. (A25-37) for Granada Park, Spendlove Park & Valyermo Park Play Area Resilient Surfacing Renovation in an amount not to exceed $73,526.00, and (2) issued a purchase order to Robertson Industries, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $73,526.00.
City Council Minutes 5 November 11, 2025
Mayor Ruesch asked Captain Ivins for a recap of the Flock Camera System Captain Ivins provided a report on the Flock Camera System, addressing questions about the Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) system used by the Sheriff's Department. He explained that camera placements were strategically chosen to cover areas where vehicles commonly enter and exit the city, as well as major intersections, based on historical crime data. He confirmed that the cameras will remain in their fixed locations and that the Sheriff's Department manages the footage, which is stored for six months unless connected to an ongoing investigation where it would be kept as evidence.
Access to ALPR data is restricted to trained department personnel, who may share it with other law enforcement as needed; requests from non-law enforcement entities must follow public records protocols. Captain Ivins cited success stories enabled by the ALPR system, including the recovery of stolen alcohol and the apprehension of a suspect linked to an assault, illustrating how the system contributes to effective law enforcement and community safety. He remarked that additional examples of its effectiveness could be provided later.
NEW BUSINESS
21. Summary of Fiscal Year 2024/25 Financial Performance, Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget Adjustments for Operating Carryovers and Revenues, and Fiscal Year 2025/26 Allocation of Available Resources for Various Uses
Director of Administrative Services Ellis Chang presented the staff report.
Laura Ostrom, M.V.: Addressed the need for a full patio cover at the Montanoso Recreation Center and gave four reasons for this request.
Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, seconded by Council Member Kelley, to divide question.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Goodell, Kelley, Ruesch, and Vasquez
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Council members provided input.
Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, seconded by Council Member Goodell, to adopt Resolution 25-39 Adjusting the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget for Operating Carryovers and Re-Budget of Certain Revenues from Fiscal Year 2024/25 to Fiscal Year 2025/26.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Goodell, Kelley, Ruesch, and Vasquez
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
City Council Minutes 6 November 11, 2025
Council members provided input.
Motion made by Mayor Ruesch, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, to adopt Resolution 25-40 Adjusting the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget to Assign Additional General Fund Reserves.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Kelley, Ruesch, and Vasquez
NOES: Goodell
ABSENT: None
Council members provided input.
Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, seconded by Council Member Kelley, to adopt Resolution 25-41 Allocating Fiscal Year 2025/26 General Fund Resources and reducing the Economic Uncertainty Reserve by $0.9million to support the following appropriations:
$0.8million for interdepartmental utilities expense and other operating costs; $0.75 million for the Trabuco Creek Wetlands Mitigation CIP; $1.2million for Barbadanes Park Playground Area Rehabilitation CIP; $1.75million for Sierra Recreation Center Improvements CIP; and $2million to establish a CIP for Parking Expansion in the vicinity of the Marguerite Recreation Center, Oso Creek Trail, and Oso Creek Golf Course.
Council also asked staff to look at including the patio cover at Montanoso Recreation Center, Economic Development Investment of $150k and $50k for the 250" Anniversary of America as a separate motion at a future meeting.
On roll call, said motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Bucknum, Goodell, Kelley, and Ruesch
NOES: Vasquez
ABSENT: None
MAYOR'S, COMMISSION, COMMITTEE REPORTS AND ACTIONS
22. Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) Report Received written report.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
City Manager Lister recognized the Mission Viejo Animal Shelter for securing a $90,000 grant from the ASPCA for an emergency response trailer, highlighting it as a notable accomplishment. She also provided an update on the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Stein Mart property, indicating that five proposals had been received from various companies. She emphasized that the next steps would involve complying with the Surplus Lands Act, which requires the city to consider offers for City Council Minutes 7 November 11, 2025
the property but retains the authority to reject any that do not meet key criteria, such as fair market
CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS
Interim City Attorney Harper had nothing to report.
COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS AND ACTIONS
23. 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 commenced by reflecting on the recent discussion, emphasizing its positive and constructive nature. He reminded everyone of the vision plan for the Upper Oso Creek Trail, mentioning that the report was finalized approximately 8 or 9 years ago during the COVID. He emphasized that the current discussions are centered on advancing to the next phase of the project and reassessing priorities. Additionally, Council Member Goodell shared his experience attending the Veterans Day Concert & Wellness Resource Fair, sponsored by Supervisor Don Wagner, and commended the exceptional performance by the Angel Force Band. He praised Supervisor Wagner for his efforts in raising awareness and funds to address the concerning rates of suicide among service members returning from deployment.
Council Member Kelley
Council Member Kelley expressed a heartfelt happy 250th birthday to all Marines both in our community and nationwide. She recounted her attendance, along with Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum, at the Marine Corps Ball last week and praised the Marine Adoption Committee for their successful efforts in supporting Marine attendees. On the Marine Corps' actual birthday, she and her husband attended an event at the Lion Museum to support the Leatherneck Flying Museum Committee's fundraising efforts. Council Member Kelley also attended a Veterans Day Concert & Wellness Resource Fair. She gave kudos to the event planners, Supervisor Wagner and Saga Conroy, and expressed her hope for its return due to its success. She highlighted the involvement of the Community of Character Committee, noting that several teenagers volunteered at the Veterans Day event and organized an event at Sunrise Assisted Living to honor local veterans. Additionally, she mentioned that the committee adopted three Marine families this year, continuing the tradition of supporting Marines by providing Christmas presents from their wish lists. She urged the community to consider adopting a Marine family, emphasizing the increased number of families in need this year. Lastly, Council Member Kelley encouraged everyone to check the city's website for upcoming holiday City Council Minutes 8 November 11, 2025
events, specifically Santa's Arrival on November 30, and other festive activities such as the Winter Gala and the Jane Austen Ball. She concluded by inviting everyone to participate and enjoy the holiday celebrations.
Council Member Vasquez
Council Member Vasquez attended a presentation by Senator Catherine Blakespear, during which the City received a check for the expansion of the Oso Creek Trail. She conveyed her optimism regarding the upcoming improvements to the trail and noted its popularity within the community. Additionally, she took part in a well-attended Veterans Day ceremony, praising the caliber of the speakers present.
Council Member Vasquez also recognized Nurse Practitioner Week, celebrating the vital role that nurse practitioners play, and mentioned her husband, who works in mental health at the VA in Long Beach. She concluded her remarks by expressing gratitude to service members for their dedication and service.
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum
Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum conveyed her privilege and honor in participating in the Marine Corps Ball, emphasizing its significance and noting that the event attracted over a thousand attendees, thanks to the support of the Marine Adoption Committee, which assists in covering ticket expenses. She also attended a Veterans Day ceremony at Mission Hospital and praised the Auxiliary for organizing a wonderful event that honors veterans and demonstrates their commitment to giving back to the community following their service. Additionally, she shared experiences from her recent trips, including a Buffalo Bills game and a business-related advocacy trip to Washington, DC, where she discussed local transportation funding with the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and met with Congresswoman Young Kim during her visit, noting a productive atmosphere in DC. Mayor Pro Tem Bucknum encouraged community engagement through local food drives and highlighted upcoming events with the Daughters of the American Revolution related to America's 250th anniversary. She urged residents to support local businesses during the holiday season, and shared her experience of adopting a Marine family, encouraging others to give back as well. She concluded by wishing everyone a happy Veterans Day.
Mayor Ruesch
Mayor Ruesch showcased a significant check of nearly $1.2 million that the City received from Senator Catherine Blakespear at an event last Friday. He also noted his attendance at a flag ceremony for veterans held at Antenucci's, Mission Viejo's oldest Italian restaurant, which was organized by local realtors. He shared a heartwarming story about a couple of young students who found a cat and later brought it to the animal shelter, where it was discovered that the cat had a microchip leading to its elderly owner in Northern California. Two animal shelter volunteers, Kindra McMahon and Trish McClurg, facilitated the cat's return by driving halfway to reunite it with its owner. Additionally, the Mayor spoke about attending a Scout-O-Rama event, reflecting on his nearly 25 years with the scouting organization and appreciating the valuable contributions of young people in the community.
He stated while other Council Members attended the Marine Corps Ball, he attended the American Legion Auxiliary Tribute to Veterans event where Medal of Honor recipient spoke about veterans' struggles, stressing the importance of support for veterans dealing with PTSD and suicide. Mayor Ruesch concluded by honoring veterans and shared poignant words from his attendance at Veterans City Council Minutes 9 November 11, 2025
Day Ceremony at El Toro Cemetery ~ some people dream the dream, and some people live the dream, some people defend the dream ~ God bless the Defenders.
ADJOURNMENT
At the hour of 8:32 pm, with no further business to come before the City Council at this session, Mayor Ruesch adjourned the meeting to Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Centevitel
Renata Winter, Assistant City Clerk
Approved at the meeting of December 9, 2025
City Council Minutes 10 November 11, 2025