CITY OF MONTEBELLO
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 2025 AT 6:00 PM
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1600 WEST BEVERLY BOULEVARD
MONTEBELLO, CALIFORNIA
OPENING CEREMONIES
CALL TO ORDER - 6:00 P.M.
Mayor Melendez called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members present were Mayor Melendez, Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, Councilmember Peralta, Councilmember Alonzo, and Councilmember Romero. City Clerk Jimenez and City Treasurer Matanga were also present.
City Attorney Arnold Alvarez-Glasman, City Manager Raul Alvarez, Acting Assistant City Manager Angelica Palmeros, Deputy City Clerk Nelly Ochoa, Management Analyst Samantha Nevarez, and Department Directors Michael Solorza, John Soria, Joseph Palombi, David Sosnowski, Cesar Roldan, Fire Chief Pelaez, and Police Chief Lopez were present.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
City Attorney Alvarez-Glasman announced the Closed Session Item.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
At this time, the public may submit a speaker card to the City Clerk staff for Closed Session items, prior to the beginning of this statement. Speakers will be called in the order received. Please be aware that the maximum time allotted for members of the public to speak on Closed Session items shall not exceed three (3) minutes per person. State Law prohibits the City Council from taking action or entertaining extended discussion on a topic not listed on the agenda. Please show courtesy to others and direct all of your comments to the Mayor and City Council.
None.
CLOSED SESSION
The City Attorney shall provide a briefing on the item listed for Closed Session as follows:
Mayor Melendez recessed the meeting into Closed Session at 6:01 p.m. to consider the following Closed Session item:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Garcias v. City of Montebello
Case No. 23STCV09823
March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 9
REGULAR SESSION - IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING CLOSED SESSION
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
Mayor Melendez reconvened the meeting at 6:46 p.m.
All five members were present to discuss all Closed Session items. City Attorney Arnold Alvarez-Glasman provided the following report to City Council: Item No. 1,a briefing was provided to City Council, direction was provided, but no action was taken and nothing further to report.
INVOCATION
Led by City Clerk Jimenez.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Led by City Treasurer Matanga.
CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA - CITY MANAGER
None.
CEREMONIAL ITEMS/PRESENTATIONS
2. CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION FOR LOS ANGELES MUAY THAI Presented by Mayor Melendez.
3. PRESENTATION BY THE GREATER LOS ANGELES COUNTY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT Caroline Gongora, Public Information Coordinator, from Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District provided a presentation about mosquitoes and the importance of community health, comfort and welfare through effective and responsive vector control. They accomplish this by performing disease surveillance, controlling vectors, and conducting community outreach.
Councilmember Peralta inquired about the safety of mosquito control methods and whether the public is notified. Caroline explained that they use biological control methods targeting mosquitoes in their aquatic stages. She mentioned that one of the methods involves soil-based bacteria, which is safe and effective. Caroline also assured that the community is welcome to speak with their technicians when they are conducting these treatments, and they make efforts to inform the public about any special treatments being applied.
Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo inquired about the role of being on the Board of Trustees. Caroline stated that the trustees play a key role in providing direction, ensuring the District remains transparent, and promoting community outreach to help educate the public.
Councilmember Alonzo inquired about when to report a mosquito issue and what constitutes a concern. Caroline explained that it depends on your tolerance levels and encouraged residents to call them for any questions or concerns.
Mayor Melendez thanked Caroline for the presentation.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS (30 MINUTES)
At this time, the public may submit speaker card(s) to the City Clerk staff, for both agenda and non-agenda items, prior to the beginning of this statement; Public Hearing items do not require a speaker card.
The City Council will address non-agenda items during this section and speakers will be called in the order received. Those persons not accommodated during this 30-minute period will have an opportunity to speak under “Public Comments – Continued”, after all scheduled matters have been considered. Public Hearing, Regular Business and/or Consent Calendar items will be addressed at the time that matter of business is heard, in the order received.
March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 9
Please be aware that the maximum time allotted for members of the public to speak shall not exceed three (3) minutes per speaker. State Law prohibits the City Council from taking action or entertaining extended discussion on a topic not listed on the agenda. Please show courtesy to others and direct all of your comments to the Mayor and City Council.
The City Clerk’s Office acknowledged ten (10) members of the public wishing to address the City Council. Speakers were provided three minutes to address the City Council and said speaker cards are on file at the City Clerk’s office.
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS ON ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
None.
PUBLIC HEARING
4. APPEAL OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION DECISION OF DENIAL OF SITE PLAN REVIEW AND ZONE
VARIANCE REQUESTS FOR REDUCED LOT SIZE, REDUCTION IN FRONT YARD SETBACK, AND LOT
COVERAGE, AS WELL AS THE DENIAL OF A RECOMMENDATION OF APPROVAL TO THE CITY COUNCIL REGARDING VESTING TENTATIVE TRACT MAP (“VTTM”) NO. 084478 TO ALLOW 15 SINGLE-FAMILY
DWELLING UNITS INCLUDING A COMMON PARCEL FOR STREETS, UTILITIES, AND A PRIVATE PARK (CASE NO. PC-2024-0002-SPR/ZV/TTM) FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 301 JACMAR DRIVE.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Conduct a public hearing to consider all matters presented at the public hearing, adopt Resolution No. 24-62 overturning the Planning Commission decision to deny PC-2024-0002-SPR/ZV/TTM and approving PC-2024-0002-SPR/ZV/TTM, which would become effective after City Council’s findings are referred to the Planning Commission and the Planning Commission provides a further report on the matter per Montebello Municipal Code 17.78.130 “Council decisions contrary to planning commission action;” or
2. Conduct a Public Hearing to consider all matters presented at the public hearing, and based on the entire record, adopt Resolution No. 24-61 upholding the Planning Commission decision to deny PC-2024- 0002/SPR/ZV/TTM; and
3. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo recused herself from the discussion due to a conflict of interest related to the nearby property.
City Attorney Alvarez-Glasman provided an overview of the process of the hearing.
Victor Sanchez, the applicant's representative, noted that the applicant was present and gave a presentation on the project.
The presentation covered site information, the site plan, home features, and a recap of the project's process with the City.
One request from the previous hearing was for the applicant to conduct targeted community outreach. Victor explained that they addressed this request by focusing on four key strategies: holding one-on-one meetings with key stakeholders, sending a mailer highlighting the key components of the project to residents within 500 feet, conducting targeted door-to- door outreach within a 1,000-foot radius of the project, and organizing three town hall meetings. Additionally, Victor discussed the benefits of the 15-unit development, including addressing housing needs, ensuring alignment with City planning goals, and adding parking, green space, and design consistency to the community.
Mayor Melendez opened the Public Hearing at 7:52 p.m.
The City Clerk’s Office acknowledged ten (10) members of the public wishing to address the City Council. The City Clerk's office also received two (2) written comments in opposition to the project. Five (5) speakers spoke in support, and eight (8) speakers spoke in opposition. Speakers were provided three minutes to address the City Council and said speaker March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 9
cards and comments are on file at the City Clerk’s office.
Victor Sanchez responded to resident concerns, clarifying that the project is market-rate housing, not low-income. He explained that any new developer would face difficulty making changes, as they would have to go through the approval process again. Victor emphasized his role in community engagement, not as the realtor or developer, and confirmed that the development would pay impact fees. While acknowledging parking concerns, he noted the project meets parking standards. Regarding unit count, he explained the number wasn’t changed to avoid allowing ADUs, which could increase units. He also mentioned that the bike lane was added as a buffer for pedestrians and driveways, apologizing for the delayed communication. Finally, he addressed the lot size, noting the lower density per capita provides more space.
Councilmember Alonzo inquired about Senate Bill 9 (SB 9) and the proposed 15 units, requesting clarification on the total units allowed under SB 9. Director Palombi explained that, under SB 9, the project would allow for 8 units with an administrative lot split. Victor Sanchez then asked about the subdivision process, to which Director Palombi clarified that any project involving more than 4 parcels would require a tentative tract map, which is discretionary. Councilmember Alonzo expressed concerns about the accuracy of the information being shared with the community. In response, Victor clarified that the information he provided was based on guidance from City staff and emphasized that the distinction being discussed was whether the process was discretionary or not.
Councilmember Romero echoed Councilmember Alonzo's concern and inquired about the possibility of building an ADU with the 15-unit proposed plan. Victor stated that with HOA restrictions it would limit the ability to do that.
Mayor Melendez thanked Victor Sanchez for his outreach efforts. Victor Sanchez then sought clarification regarding the discretionary process and lot subdivision. Director Palombi confirmed that subdivision of the lots would require going through the discretionary process and could not be done administratively. Mayor Melendez then expressed concerns about the integrity of the project.
Mayor Melendez closed the Public Hearing at 8:41 p.m.
Councilmember Alonzo motioned to uphold the Planning Commission decision, seconded by Councilmember Romero, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
MOVED: Alonzo SECONDED: Romero APPROVED: 4-0-0-1
AYES: Romero, Peralta, Alonzo, Melendez
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Tamayo
REGULAR BUSINESS - NONE
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine. Any items a member wishes to discuss, including any items the public submitted speaker cards for, should be designated at this time. All other items may be approved in a single motion. Such approval will also waive the reading of any Ordinance.
Councilmember Peralta pulled Item No 6.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, that Item No's. 5, 7-16, be approved; the motion passed unanimously.
5. APPROVE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NOS. 4286 AND 4287 WITH OFFICE SOLUTIONS
BUSINESS PRODUCTS & SERVICES LLC AND MOHAWK CARPET DISTRIBUTION, LLC RESPECTIVELY
TO PURCHASE AND INSTALL UPGRADED WORKSTATIONS AND FLOORING
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 9
1. Approve Professional Services Agreement No. 4286, with Office Solutions Business Products & Services, LLC (dba Bluespace Interiors), utilizing the Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Program (Sourcewell) Contract No. 091423- TKN, to purchase and install upgraded workstations for Public Works and Human Resources for a total not-to-exceed amount of $121,527; and
2. Approve Professional Services Agreement, No. 4287 with Mohawk Carpet Distribution, LLC utilizing Sourcewell Contract No. 061323-MCD to purchase and install flooring for segments of City Hall West for a total not-to-exceed amount of $40,173; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreements and approve change orders for up to ten percent (10%) of the total compensation amount for each proposed agreement; and
4. Amend the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget by increasing appropriations by $80,000 in Account No. 100-30- 510-6083 (General Fund, Public Works, Government Building Maintenance, Furniture and Fixtures Purchases); and,
5. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
6. ADOPT PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF MONTEBELLO BOULEVARD STREET RESURFACING PROJECT (CP NO. 888) AND PROCEED WITH BID ADVERTISEMENT
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve Environmental Assessment pursuant to 14 California Code of Regulations § 15301 as a Class 1 categorical exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and
2. Adopt construction plans and specifications for the Montebello Boulevard Street Resurfacing Project (CP No. 888); and
3. Authorize staff to proceed with bid advertisement for construction; and
4. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta requested more information regarding the project. Director Roldan provided additional details, explaining that the project would involve repaving streets, addressing potholes, and focusing on street beautification.
Councilmember Peralta inquired if the project would be completed in phases, expressing concern about the existing detours, traffic congestion, and the time required for completion. Director Roldan responded that the contractor selected through the bidding process would provide the means and methods for the project, estimating a completion timeline of approximately six months. He assured that he was coordinating with the San Gabriel Valley COG and various departments to manage traffic and prioritize safety during the project. Councilmember Peralta then asked about the inclusion of native plants and flowers in the medians. Director Roldan confirmed that the plant palette had already been selected, but noted that they are always open to adding new species. He mentioned that this could be discussed further once the project is awarded, allowing for potential modifications.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Councilmember Alonzo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
7. ADOPT PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PLAZA DRIVE RESURFACING PROJECT (CP NO. 917) AND PROCEED WITH BID ADVERTISEMENT
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve Environmental Assessment pursuant to 14 California Code of Regulations § 15301 as a Class 1 categorical exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and
2. Adopt construction plans and specifications for Plaza Drive Resurfacing Project (CP No. 917); and
3. Authorize staff to proceed with bid advertisement for construction; and
4. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
8. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NO. 3822 WITH VERDANT LANDSCAPING, INC. TO EXPAND THE SCOPE OF SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 9
1. Approve Amendment No. 2 to Professional Services Agreement No. 3822 with Verdant Landscaping, Inc. to expand landscape maintenance services to include Catherine Hensel Ballpark, Golf Course Clubhouse, Hilton Garden Inn, Home2Suites, and Quiet Cannon; and
2. Establish the total not-to-exceed amount of the agreement as $475,170 per year; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 2 to Professional Services Agreement No. 3822; and
4. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
9. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO.2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NO. 3972 WITH SEBASTIAN WATERWORKS (DBA MR. ROOTER PLUMBING)
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement No. 3972 between the City of Montebello and Sebastian Waterworks Inc., (dba Mr. Rooter Plumbing) for a One (1) Year Extension through June 30, 2026; and,
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Amendment on behalf of the City; and,
3. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
10. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NO. 3878 WITH
SHOCKWAVE ELECTRIC
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement No. 3878 between the City of Montebello and Shockwave Electric for a One (1) Year Extension to June 30, 2026; and,
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Amendment on behalf of the City; and,
3. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
11. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NO. 3860 WITH BEROKOFF
ELECTRIC
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement No. 3860 between the City of Montebello and Berokoff Electric for a One (1) Year Extension (through June 30, 2026); and
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Amendment on behalf of the City; and,
3. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
12. WAIVE THE SECOND READING AND ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 2481 AMENDING MONTEBELLO MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 3.20 "PURCHASING SYSTEM" AND CHAPTER 3.21 "CONTRACTS FOR PROFESSIONAL AND SPECIAL SERVICES"
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2481 Amending Municipal Code Chapter 3.20 “Purchasing System,” and Chapter 3.21 “Contracts for Professional and Special Services” of the Montebello Municipal Code Relating; and,
2. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 7 of 9
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
13. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO AGREEMENT NO. 3936 WITH A & A FLEET PAINTING, INC., TO
EXTEND CITYWIDE VEHICLE PAINT AND BODY REPAIR SERVICES AND APPROVE PAYMENT TO A & A FLEET PAINTING, INC., FOR PAINT AND BODY REPAIR SERVICES COMPLETED
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve Amendment No. 1 to Agreement No. 3936 with A & A Fleet Painting Inc. (A & A Fleet), for a one-year (1-year) term, to extend vehicle paint and body repair services for a total not-to-exceed amount of $175,000; and
2. Authorize the City Manager and/or his designee to execute Amendment No. 1 on behalf of the City of Montebello; and
3. Amend the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget to increase appropriations by $68,741 in Account No. 100-80- 815-6080.30 (General Fund, Police, Support Services, Vehicle Maintenance/ Expenses Vehicle Repair and Services); and,
4. Approve payment to A & A Fleet in the amount of $28,741 for paint and body repairs completed; and
5. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
14. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO AGREEMENT NOS. 3988 AND 3989 WITH (I) FORD OF MONTEBELLO, INC. AND (II) MONTEBELLO AUTO GROUP LLC, AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO AGREEMENT NO. 3990 WITH SHAK ENTERPRISES, INC., FOR CITYWIDE FLEET VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SERVICES, AND APPROVE PAYMENT TO FORD OF MONTEBELLO, INC., MONTEBELLO AUTO GROUP LLC, AND SHAK ENTERPRISES, INC., FOR REPAIR SERVICES COMPLETED
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve Amendment No. 1 to Agreement Nos. 3988 and 3989 with (i) Ford of Montebello, Inc. (Montebello Ford), and (ii) Montebello Auto Group LLC (Montebello Chevy) to provide citywide fleet vehicle maintenance and repair services, for an additional two-year (2-year) term and increase the total not-to-exceed amount to $200,000 for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2024-25 and annually for the additional two years; and
2. Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement No. 3990 with Shak Enterprises, Inc (dba Montebello Tire Pros), to provide citywide fleet vehicle maintenance and repair services, for an additional 2-year term and increase the total not-to-exceed amount to $200,000 for the remainder of FY 2024-25 and annually for the additional two years; and
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the amendments on behalf of the City of Montebello; and
4. Amend the Fiscal Year 2024-25 adopted budget to increase appropriations by $85,683 in Account No. 100-80-815-6080.30 (General Fund, Police, Support Services, Vehicle Maintenance/Expenses Vehicle Repair and Services); and
5. Approve payment for repairs completed to Montebello Ford ($33,977) and to Montebello Tire Pros ($19,134); and
6. Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
15. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: JANUARY 29, 2025, CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED MEETING; FEBRUARY 12, 2025, CITY COUNCIL MEETING; FEBRUARY 26, 2025, CITY COUNCIL MEETING; MARCH 12, 2025, CITY
COUNCIL MEETING
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve said Minutes as is.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 8 of 9
16. PAYMENT OF BILLS: ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 25-22 APPROVING THE CITY WARRANT REGISTER OF DEMANDS DATED MARCH 26, 2025
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 25-22 approving the Warrant Register dated March 26, 2025.
Councilmember Peralta motioned, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tamayo, to approve the item; the motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS - CONTINUED
AB 1234 TRAVEL REPORTS
Members will provide a brief report on meetings attended at the expense of the local agency as required by Government Code Section 53232.3(d).
None.
COUNCIL/AGENCY ORALS
Announcements and requests for future agenda items.
• Danielle Romero, Councilmember
• Georgina Tamayo, Mayor Pro Tem
• Scarlet Peralta, Councilmember
• Ric Alonzo, Councilmember
1. I would like to make a statement regarding Women's History Month.
1. Councilmember Alonzo acknowledged the City staff during Women's History Month. • Salvador Melendez, Mayor
1. Resolution regarding Armenian POWs held by Azerbaijan.
1. Consensus was received to adopt a resolution regarding Armenian prisoners of war held by Azerbaijan.
CLOSED SESSION - CONTINUED
ADJOURNMENT
The City of Montebello will adjourn to the next Regular Meeting on April 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., which can be live-streamed March 26, 2025: City Council Meeting Minutes Page 9 of 9
at https://www.montebelloca.gov (Click on Live Stream).
I, Kimberly Guillen, Senior Deputy City Clerk for the City of Montebello, hereby certify that a copy of this agenda has been posted on or before Sunday, March 23, 2025, no later than 6:00 p.m.
Kimberly Guillen, Senior Deputy City Clerk
Mayor Melendez adjourned the meeting at 8:55 p.m.
THE MINUTES OF MARCH 26, 2025, ARE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON THIS 9TH DAY OF APRIL 2025.
EXHIBIT - CITY OF MONTEBELLO FORECASTED AGENDA
Please note, the attached exhibit is a draft version that is to be used for reference purposes only; agenda items, information, and dates are subject to change. The exhibit will be placed at the end of the Agenda Packet.
• CITY OF MONTEBELLO FORECASTED AGENDA