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MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the City of Monterey Park is to provide excellent services to enhance the quality of life for our entire community.
MINUTES
MONTEREY PARK CITY COUNCIL
FINANCING AUTHORITY (MPFA)
HOUSING AUTHORITY (MPHA)
GEOLOGIC HAZARD ABATEMENT DISTRICT (GHAD)
SUCCESSOR AGENCY (SA)
REGULAR MEETING
MAY 17, 2023
The City Council, the Financing Authority (MPFA), the Housing Authority (MPHA), the Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD), and the Successor Agency (SA) of the City of Monterey Park held a Regular Meeting of the Council in the Council Chamber, located at 320 West Newmark Avenue in the City of Monterey Park, Wednesday, May 17 , 2023 at 6:30 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Sanchez called the meeting to order at 6:36 p.m.
FLAG SALUTE:
The Police Explorers called the flag salute.
ROLL CALL:
City Clerk Maychelle Yee called the roll:
Council Members Present: Henry Lo, Vinh Ngo, Jose Sanchez, Thomas Wong, Yvonne Yiu
Council Members Absent: None
ALSO PRESENT:, City Manager Ron Bow, Assistant City Manager Inez Alvarez, Police Chief Scott Wiese , City Librarian Diana Garcia, Director of Public Works Shawn Igoe, Director of Recreation and Community Services Robert Aguirre, Director of Finance Martha Garcia, Community Developm ent Director Jessica Serrano , Director of Human Resources and Risk Manager Christine Tom ikawa, Economic Project Manager Joseph Torres, Battalion Chief Chris Thompson, Fire Captain Scott Kelley, Finance Manager Laura Borjon, Recreation Manager Christine Alatorre, Deputy City Clerk Cindy Trang
VIRTUALLY PRESENT: City Att orney Karl Berger, Artist DJ Javier, Los Angeles Rams Associate Manager Mary Morales, Artist’s Manager Lea Sindija, Lead Partner of Pun Group LLP Kenneth Pun, Engagement Manager of Pun Group LLP Mark Hu
AGENDA ADDITIONS, DELETIONS, CHANGES AND ADOPTIONS
None.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
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- Larry Sullivan and Fire Captain Kelley invited the public to the Monterey Park Lions Club Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser in conjunction with the Monterey Park Fire Department Fire Service Day on May 20.
- Jorge Rivera, representing Healing and Justice Center, shared a flyer and spoke about digital equity including internet and broadband access.
- Nancy Acuri requested for a progress report on the development located at 126 North New Avenue and inquired on what the city is doing to promote and attrac t businesses to the shopping center on South Atlantic Blvd.
- Jesus Hernandez, representing Service Employees International Union (SEIU) 721, requested for a fair contract, a fair cost of living adjustment, and to match their numbers.
- Lauren Frazier , representing SEIU 721, said that the City’s current offering in salary is unexceptionally low . She stated that SEIU is the lowest paid full time employees, and with the unprecedent level of inflation and cost of living increases, the small increases don’t go very far. She pleaded with the Council to support their effort for fair wages.
- David Zapata, City employee, said that cents don’t help with living the American dream and what used to be a job that kept a person in middle class seems harder to reach. He pointed out the large turnover in his department in the past year. He asked the City Council for help.
- John Lieu, City employee, said there are many turnovers and suggested that with a fair deal, the City will be able to retain and attract new employees.
- Maychelle Yee, resident, asked that items be channeled through the appropriate board and commission and properl y reviewed. She alleged that the City is attempting to censor her by charging her with violating the City’s Code of Conduct without telling her what she was accused of . She requested the investigation be conducted publicly and televise. She stated that s he felt pressured during a council meeting and signed the Code of Conduct under distress and now rescinded her submission.
- Teresa Real Sebastian spoke in support of SEIU. She commented on the right to speak and encouraged all the elected officials to speak their mind.
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
- Public Works: Director of Public Works Igo reminded everyone that the week of May 21 through May 27, 2023 is Public Works Week, and invited the public to the Public Works Open House at the City Yard on May 25.
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- Recreation and Community Services Department: Recreation Manager Alatorre thanked the residents and staff for the successful collaborative celebration of Cinco de Mayo, Farmers’ Market, and Play Days Birthday Carnival event. She reported 512 participates in the Library’s Reading and Ride program with 299 tickets redeemed for use on rides at Play Day. City Librarian Garcia invited the community to attend the Mental Health & Wellness Fair on May 20 at t he Langley Center.
Recreation Manager Alatorre provided an update on upcoming events: Senior Prom Dance on May 25, Memorial Day Ceremony on May 29 at the American Legion Post 397, swim lessons registration beginning May 30, 3 rd Annual Pride
event at Barnes park on June 3, MPK Night at Dodger Stadium on June 23, Hollywood Bowl Trip featuring Kool & the Gang and the Village People on July 15.
1. PRESENTATION
Matters listed under presentation are informational content and for discussion only.
1-A. MONTEREY PARK COMMUNITY HEALING FUND UPDATE
Assistant City Manager Alvarez, on behalf of the fund administrator, provided an update on the Healing Fund. She reported that the Committee is accepting applications through the end of July 2023, to provide small financial grants to witnesses of the January 21 shooting incident. She said the Committee converted to monthly meeting and the Committee extended its thanks to the Mark Keppel students for managing the wishing tree at the Play Days event.
2. OLD BUSINESS
None.
3. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS NOS. 3A-3L
All items under the Consent Calendar are considered by the City Council to be routine and will be enacted by one motion. Specific items may be removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of any member of the City Council for separate consideration.
Action Taken: The City Council approved and adopted A genda Item No s. 3A, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3J, and 3L on Consent Calendar, excluding Item Nos. 3B, 3G, 3H, 3I and 3K which were pulled for discussion, separate motion, reading resolutions and ordinances by the title only and waiving further reading thereof.
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Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Council Member Ngo, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Yiu, Ngo, Wong, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
3-A. MONTHLY INVESTMENT REPORT – APRIL 2023
As of April 30, 2023 invested funds for the City of Monterey Park is $82,252,355.16.
Action Taken: The City Council received and filed the monthly investment report, on Consent Calendar.
3-B. AUDITING SERVICES AGREEMENT
The City of Monterey Park post ed a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking Professional Auditing Services. The RFP was sent out to eleven auditing firms and was posted on the City Website. Three firms responded with a proposal. Of the three firms, one responded after the due date. The re maining two qualifying firms’ proposed costs range from $216,363 to $239,112 for a three year-term.
The Pun Group LLP is the lowest bidder at $216,363 and is selected for their excellent ability to perform the City’s’ auditing services. The City is negotiating a three-year agreement at $216,363 plus a 10% contingency at $21,636 for a total not to exceed $238,000.
Public Comment:
- Kenneth Pun, Lead Partner, Pun Group LLP; and Mark Hu, Engagement Manager, Pun Group LLP were available for questions.
Action Taken: The City Council allowed the City Manager to enter into an agreement in a form to be approved by the City Attorney with The Pun Group, LLP for an amount not to exceed $238,000 for auditing services. Mayor Pro Tem Wong directed staff to bring back for Council’s approval a Request For Proposal (RFP) policy requiring auditing services to go out for bid every 4 -5 years and going forward as standard practice, to attach the winning bid to the staff report with RFPs.
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Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Council Member Ngo, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Yiu, Ngo, Wong, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
3-C. EXTENSION OF COMMISSIONER’S TERM
In accordance with Monterey Park Municipal Code (MPMC) § 2.82.50, Commissions, Boards and Committees (collectively, “Commissions”) members may serve two, 4 year, terms. If an individual completes serving and separates from service, such person cannot be reappointed to the same board or commission for at least 12 consecutive months unless otherwise authorized by City Council to extend the term. This would align the Commissioner terms with that of the Councilmember who appointed them.
Mayor Sanchez request ed to extend the term of Victoria Chavez -Calderon to Community Participation Commission, which will align with his council term for an additional two year term through November 2024. Ms. Chavez -Calderon has served on the commission since 2013.
Action Tak en: The City Council approved the extension of Victoria Chavez - Calderon’s term to the Community Participation Commission , on Consent Calendar.
3-D. EXTENDING A LOCAL EMERGENCY FOR THE GOODVIEWS ABATEMENT PROJECT (“GAP”)
On December 21, 2022, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2022-R101 that extended the GAP local emergency until March 1, 2023; that emergency was subsequently extended in a series of City Council actions until June 1, 2023.
On May 10, 2023, the City’s project manager informed the City Manager and City Attorney that the contractor, C.A. Rasmussen, requested additional time to complete the GAP based upon delays from the 2023 winter storms. Completion is now estimated for the end of June.
Action Taken: The City Council extended the local emergency for the GAP pursuant to Section 3 of Resolution No. 2022-R101 (adopted December 21, 2022) to July 1, 2023, on Consent Calendar.
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3-E. ADOPT A RESOLUTION TERMINATING 2023 WINTER STORMS LOCAL
EMERGENCY
On January 18, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023- R5 which confirmed the existence of a local emergency related to the 2023 Winter Storms.
Resolution No. 2023- R5 authorized the City Manager to undertake all actions needed to preserve public health and safety in accordance with applicable law.
The conditions of emergency no longer exist. Therefore, staff recommends that the City Council terminate the local emergency, effective immediately.
Environmental Assessment:
The Resolution itself and the actions anticipated by the Resolution were reviewed pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq ., “CEQA”) and the regulations promulgated thereunder (14 Cal.
Code of Regulations §§15000, et seq ., the “CEQA Guidelines”). Based upon that review, this action is exempt from further review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines § 15269(a) because the protection of public and private property is necessary to maintain service essential to the public, health and welfare. 1 Action Taken: The City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023- R37 terminating 2023 Winter Storms local emergency, on Consent Calendar.
Resolution No. 2023-R37
A RESOLUTION ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF MONTEREY PARK TERMINATING THE 2023 WINTER STORMS LOCAL
EMERGENCY
3-F. ANNUAL MILITARY EQUIPMENT REPORT PER ASSEMBLY BILL NO. 481
On May 18, 2022, the Monterey Park City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2222 approving a military equipment use policy (Monterey Park Police Department – Policy 709) pursuant to Assembly Bill No. 481(“AB 481”). In accordance with AB 481 and Policy 709, a military equipment report must be submitted to the City Council annually for each type of military equipment approved within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the military equipment is available for use. In compliance with AB 481, outlined below is the 2022 MPPD Annual Military Equipment Report.
Action Taken: The City Council received and filed report, on Consent Calendar.
1 CEQA findings regarding an anticipated imminent emergency are valid (see CalBeach Advocates v. City of Solana Beach (2002) 103 Cal.App.4th 529).
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3-G. AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT NO. 1967 -AC FOR THE UPFITTING/
CONVERSION OF POLICE DEPARTMENT VEHICLES
The Police Department leases nine (9) vehicles from Enterprise for use as administrative or undercover vehicles. The leases will expire this fiscal year and will need to be replaced with new vehicles. The new leased vehicles will need to be upfitted with emergency lights, sirens, secure weapons storage, and police radios.
Action Taken: The City Council authorized the City Manager to execute an amendment with West Coast Lights and Sirens, Inc. to Agreement No. 1967- AC, in a form approved by the City Attorney, for the upfitting/conversion of leased police department vehicles.
Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Council Member Yiu, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Yiu, Ngo, Wong, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
3-H. AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT 2231-AA WITH COLU TECHNOLOGIES FOR
THE SOFTWARE LICENSING OF MONTEREY PARK REWARDS SHOP
LOCAL APP PROGRAM
In April 2021, the City signed a software licensing agreement with Colu Technologies to help launch the Monterey Park Rewards program using digital technology to spur economic recovery for our small business community during and post-pandemic. The Monterey Park Rewards app is a digital shop and dine local program that uses smartphones to leverage the power of our local community. With $1 earned for every $10 spent, we believe funneling money back to our residents and visitors from neighboring cities incentivizes them to continue shopping and dining locally. The City pays that $1 earned to keep the participating merchants whole. The program cre ates a sense of civic pride and leverages the power of our communities to spur economic growth by promoting a circular economy.
The Colu Technologies software licensing agreement expires on June 1, 2023.
Staff are requesting City Council approve an Amendment to Professional Services Agreement 2231-AA with Colu Technologies to extend the agreement from June 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, after which the Monterey Park Rewards program itself will expire. City Council approval is requested, as the agreement ex tension increases the total value of the agreement beyond the City Manager’s authorized amount of $60,000.
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Action Taken: The City Council authorized the City Manager to execute an Amendment to Agreement 2231- AA with Colu Technologies, in a form approved by the City Attorney, for the extension of the software licensing agreement for the Monterey Park Rewards Program, an innovative shop local app incentive program, through December 31, 2023.
Motion: Moved by Maor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Council Member Yiu, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Yiu, Ngo, Wong, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
3-I. PLAYGROUND PROJECTS AT BELLA VISTA, GARVEY RANCH, HIGHLANDS, AND SEQUOIA PARKS – APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER FOR
SUPERIOR RECREATION PRODUCTS TO PROCURE PLAYGROUND
EQUIPMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $869,551.32
Recreation and Community Services staff have been working with playground providers to develop themed play structure designs to be installed at Bella Vista, Garvey Ranch, Highlands, and Sequoia Parks. Department staff wants to improve the residents’ experi ence by providing themed playgrounds that will encourage users to visit various parks in the City. The unique designs will also enhance the usage of playground users’ imagination and foster interaction between the youth in the community.
After working with playground providers on design themes, staff presented playground concepts at the February Recreation & Parks Commission meeting to gain input and feedback from Commissioners. Following the February Recreation and Parks Commission meeting, staff worked to develop the design themes with the commissioner’s comments and to meet the approved design and construction budget. At the May 1, 2023, Recreation and Parks Commission meeting, staff presented updated designs for the Commission to vote on. The Recreatio n and Parks Commission voted unanimously to recommend proceeding with the theme designs provided by Zoom Recreation/Superior Recreational Products.
Zoom Recreation is Superior Recreational Products’ California playground dealer.
City staff identified BuyBoard as a company that has an agreement with Superior Recreational Products for procurement of its playground equipment. The play pieces will include recycled materials with 26,000 pounds of post -consumer recycled plastic, all of which are Green Circle certified. The BuyBoard agreement will allow staff to purchase playground pieces at the lowest price available, including all custom pieces.
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CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act):
The proposed projects are categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements pursuant to 14 California Code of Regulations § 15301 as a Class 1 categorical exemption (Existing Facilities).
Public Comments:
- Justin Lotz, Project Manager, Recreation/Superior Recreational Products, was available for questions.
Discussion: Director of Recreation and Community Services Aguirre presented a PowerPoint Presentation showcasing the rendering and theme for each park and was available for questions.
Action Taken: The City Council approved the designs for the playgrounds located at Bella Vista, Garvey Ranch Park, Highlands, and Sequoia Parks; and approved a purchase order for Superior Recreation Products to procure playground equipment in the amount of $869,551.32.
Motion: Moved by Council Member Ngo and seconded by Council Member Yiu, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Yiu, Ngo, Wong, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
3-J. CLEAN CALIFORNIA LOCAL GRANT PROGRAM
The Clean California Local Grant Program provides competitive grants of up to $5 million to local communities to support capital projects that beatify and improve streets and roads, tribal lands, parks, pathways, and transit centers. The ultimate goal is to restore pride in California’s public spaces.
If adopted, the proposed resolution would authorize the City Manager, or designee, to apply for the Clean California Local Grant Program , to execute the grant agreement, and to implement a budget amendment if the City is awarded funds.
The deadline to apply is May 31, 2023, funds will be awarded in the fall of 2023 and the project completion date is June 30, 2026.
Action Taken: The City Council adopted R esolution No. 2023 -R38 authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to apply for, receive, and appropriate grant funds for the Clean California Local Grant Program, on Consent Calendar.
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Resolution No. 2023-R38
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER, OR DESIGNEE, TO
APPLY FOR, RECEIVE, AND APPROPRIATE GRANT FUNDS FOR THE CLEAN
CALIFORNIA LOCAL GRANT PROGRAM
3-K. MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT FOR THE COORDINATED INTEGRATED
MONITORING PROGRAM AND WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE
UPPER LOS ANGELES RIVER WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AREA FOR
FISCAL YEARS 2024 - 2026
On November 18, 2015, Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (LA Regional Board) approved the Coordinated Integrated Monitoring Program (CIMP) that Monterey Park, along with 18 other jurisdictions in the Upper Los Angeles River (ULAR) group, had submitted to the Regional Board for review. On April 20, 2016, the Regional Board also approved the Watershed Management Plan (WMP) that the ULAR group had also submitted. The ULAR group is required to implement the CIMP and WMP.
The CIMP and WMP Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) is a cost -sharing agreement to perform and coordinate the monitoring and reporting services required per the CIMP as well as certain planning and reporting services per the WMP. The previous CIMP and WMP MOA will expire on June 30, 2023. Staff is requesting the City Council’s approval to enter into a new 3-year agreement with 18 other jurisdictions. Monterey Park’s cost share is $25,626 for FY 23-24, $24,809 for FY 24- 25, and $29,610 for FY 25- 26, for a total cost of $80,045 over three years.
CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act):
The City reviewed the environmental impacts of the proposed action under the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq. “CEQA”) and the regulations promulgated thereunder (14 Cal. Code of Regs. §§ 15000, et seq., the “CEQA Guidelines”). The action is categorically exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §§15262, 15306, 15307, and 15308. The project consists of comprehensive data collection efforts to monitor water quality in downstream receiving waters. The p urpose of the project is to determine if possible actions are necessary to protect natural resources and the environment.
Action Taken: The City Council a uthorized the City Manager to execute the Memorandum of Agreement, in a form approved by the City Attorney, to cooperatively share costs in the implementation of the Coordinated Integrated Monitoring Program and Watershed Management Plan for the Upper Los Angeles River Watershed Management Area for Fiscal Years 2024 – 2026.
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Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro T em Wong and seconded by Mayor Sanchez , motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Yiu, Ngo, Wong, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
3-L. RECEIVE AND FILE STAFF REPORT SUMMARIZING THE STATUS OF
EMERGENCY REPAIRS OF THE MONTEREY PASS ROAD WATER LINE
On August 17, 2022, City Council adopted Resolution No. 2022- R69 authorizing the City Manager to take necessary measures for emergency repair of a water main line on Monterey Pass Road. Recurring water main leaks in several areas within Monterey Pass Road between the intersections of Vagabond Drive and Brightwood street resulted in extensive infrastructure damage to the roadway and necessary water main pipe repairs to ensure continued water service to residences and businesses in the area.
Action Taken: The City Council r eceived and filed the staff report summarizing the status of emergency repairs of the Monterey Pass Road water line, on Consent Calendar.
4. PUBLIC HEARING
4-A. A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING ZONING CODE AMENDMENT NO. 23 - 01(ZCA-23-01), AMENDING CHAPTER 21.18 OF THE MONTEREY PARK MUNICIPAL CODE, ENTITLED “AFFORDABLE HOUSING INCENTIVES – DENSITY BONUS” TO IMPLEMENT THE HOUSING ELEMENT OF THE
MONTEREY PARK GENERAL PLAN
Staff recommends that this item be continued to the June 7, 2023 City Council meeting.
Item Nos. 4A and 4B was heard together and approved by one motion.
Action Taken: The City Council continued the public hearing to the June 7, 2023 City Council meeting.
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Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Council Member Yiu, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Wong, Yiu, Ngo, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
4-B. A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING ZONING CODE AMENDMENT NO. 22 -01 (ZCA-22-01) ADDING CHAPTER 21.19 TO THE MONTEREY PARK
MUNICIPAL CODE, ENTITLED “INCLUSIONARY HOUSING” TO IMPLEMENT
THE HOUSING ELEMENT OF THE MONTEREY PARK GENERAL PLAN
Staff recommends that this item be continued to the June 7, 2023 City Council meeting.
Item Nos. 4A and 4B was heard today and approved by one motion.
Action Taken: The City Council continued the public hearing to the June 7, 2023 City Council meeting. Motion taken with Item No. 4A.
RECESSED AND RECONVENED
The City Council recessed at 8:28 p.m. and reconvened with all council members present at 8:40 p.m.
5. NEW BUSINESS
5-A. ONE-YEAR TIME EXTENSION FOR THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS: 1) TENTATIVE MAP NO. 71473 (TM -17-01) - SWC ORANGE AVENUE/PEPPER STREET (ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NO. (APN 5276-008-045) AND 2) TENTATIVE MAP NO. 73741 (TM -18-01) AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP -18-01) – 130-206 S. CHANDLER AVENUE (APNS 5257-004-019, 020, 021)
During the COVID -19 pandemic emergency, the City Manager and City Council took actions to suspend expirati on dates for approved land use entitlements that would have expired between March 11, 2020 and March 31, 2022. Through Administrative Orders, Resolution No. 12164, and Ordinance No. 2219, land use related projects that would have expired during the pandem ic were extended to April 1, 2023.
At this time, there are two projects that applied for a time extension before the April 1, 2023 deadline:
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1. TM-17-01 – subdivision of one lot into four lots for the construction of four new single-family dwelling units; and
2. TM-18-01 and CUP -18-01 – subdivision and development of a 40- unit senior housing complex at 130-206 S. Chandler Avenue.
Pursuant to Monterey Park Municipal Code (“MPMC”) § 20.04.120(c), the City Council may “approve, conditionally approve or deny extension requests” with the total time of extensions not exceeding six years from the initial expiration.
Additionally, MPMC § 21.32.160 allows the City Council to extend time limitations of conditional use permits not to exceed one year without a public hearing.
CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act):
Tentative Map No. 71473 (TM-17-01) - SWC Orange Avenue/Pepper Street On June 26, 2018, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 10- 18. Section 3 of that Resolution determined the Project was categorically exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines § 15332 as a Class 32 categorical exemption (In-Fill Development Projects). No additional environmental review is necessary.
Tentative Map No. 73741 (TM-18-01) and Conditional Use Permit (CUP-18-01); The Project is consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program adopted by City Council in February 5, 2020 under Resolution No. 12135 and March 4, 2020 under Ordinance No. 2167. No addi tional environmental review is necessary.
Public Comments:
- Kenny Gao, President, Latigo Canyon Development LLC; and Stephen Lau, speaking on behalf of Kenny Gao, were available for questions.
Discussion: Director of Community Development Serrano presented a PowerPoint Presentation summarizing the projects and was available for questions. It was noted that there was a typographical error in the staff report which references the southwest corner (SWC) instead of the southeast corner.
Action Taken: The City Council a dopted Resolution No. 2023-R39 approving a Time Extension for Tentative Map No. 71473 (TM-17-01); and adopted Resolution No. 2023-R40 approving a Time Extension for Tentative Map No. 73741 (TM -18- 01) and Conditional Use Permit (CUP-18-01).
Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Council Member Yiu , motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Wong, Yiu, Ngo, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
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Resolution No. 2023-R39
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A SECOND ONE -YEAR EXTENSION FOR TENTATIVE MAP NO. 71473 (TM-17-01) TO SUBDIVIDE ONE LOT INTO FOUR
LOTS AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SOUTH ORANGE AVENUE AND PEPPER STREET (ASSESSOR PARCEL NUMBER: 5276-008-045)
Resolution No. 2023-R40
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A ONE -YEAR EXTENSION FOR TENTATIVE MAP NO. 73741 (TM-18-01) AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP-18-01) TO SUBDIVIDE AND DEVELOP A 40-UNIT SENIOR HOUSING COMPLEX AT 130- 206 SOUTH CHANDER AVENUE (ASSESSOR PARCEL NUMBERS 5257 -004- 019, -020, and -021)
5-B. DONATION OF MURAL AT GEORGE ELDER PARK FOR AAPI HERITAGE MONTH
On May 4, 2023, the Recreation & Community Services Department was contacted by the Los Angeles Rams. The Los Angeles Rams organization expressed their interest in partnering with Monterey Park to create a permanent mural at a community facility in light o f the horrific January 21, 2023, shooting incident. The Rams wanted to focus on community beautification and highlight the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) culture. The Rams organization commissioned artist D.J. Javier to create a mural to uplift the Monterey Park community and honor AAPI month.
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council consider: (1) Accepting the donation of a mural submitted by the Los Angeles Rams and artist D.J. Javier for George Elder Park in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month; and (2) Taking such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Public Comments:
- Mary Morales, Los Angeles Rams Associate Manager, and Artist’s Manager Lea Sindija were available for questions.
- Tammy Louie thanked the Rams for their donations and expressed appreciation for the artist, however, she stated the artwork of the dragon represent more Asian than AAPI. She asked that the City Council consider an alternative graphic.
- Juanita Medina alleged that the mural is a memorial and that it does not represent the community.
- Armen Sebastian opin ed that the artwork looks like a grade school mascot, too cartoonish of a character to represent the AAPI community. He said it looks like a Rams billboard and asked that the Council consider postpone taking action to solicit more comments from the community.
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- Teresa Real Sebatian questioned the preparation work of the wall and the site area. She commented that the current artwork does not represent the community and suggested accepting the donation and modifying the artwork with something that is more reflective of the AAPI and the Latino culture.
- Christine Lam spoke in opposition of the mural citing that the mural is a paid permanent billboard for the Rams . She commented on the n eed for inputs from the community for design choices, seeking other appropriate design choices, and questioned the preparation work at the proposed site as well. She encouraged the City Council to table the item and seek community inputs.
RECESSED AND RECONVENED
The City Council recessed at 9:48 p.m. and reconvened with all council members present at 9:50 p.m.
Discussion: Artist DJ Javier provided a PowerPoint presentation debuting his artwork and depicted the different elements from his design and was available for questions. A discussion ensued reaffirming that the mural is not a memorial for the victims of the Lunar New Year shooting and that the City is in the process of moving forward with an actual memorial that is dedicated to the victims and the tragedy of January 1, 2023.
Action Taken: The City Council a ccepted the donation of a mural submitted by the Los Angeles Rams and artist D.J. Javier for George Elder Park in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month as amended to remove the stars and the Rams’ logo and delegate the Mayor and Council Member Ngo the authority for final approval of the design. The motion was rescinded by the maker of the motion.
Motion: Moved by Council Member Ngo. The motion was rescinded by the maker of the motion.
Action Taken: The City Council delegated the Mayor and Council Member Ngo the authority to determine whether to move forward with the mural and the design work.
Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Council Member Lo, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Wong, Yiu, Ngo, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
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5-C. NATIONAL GUN VIOLENCE AWARENESS DAY AND WEAR ORANGE
WEEKEND
Every day, 110 people in America are killed with guns. The gun homicide rate in the U.S. is 26 times higher than that of other developed countries, but research shows that common-sense and public safety laws can reduce gun violence. Gun Violence Awareness Day and Wear Orange Weekend began on June 2, 2015, commemorating the shooting death of Hadiya Pendleton, an honor student from Chicago, and remembering all those lives lost to gun violence throughout the country. We are enlisting your support in the form of a resolution to honor the victims of the January 21, 2023 shooting incident, and all victims who have been killed due to gun violence.
Action Taken: The City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023-R41 declaring June 2, 2023, to be National Gun Violence Awareness Day in the City of Monterey Park and June 3
rd and 4th as Wear Orange Weekend.
Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Mayor Sanchez Member Ngo, motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Wong, Yiu, Ngo, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
Resolution No. 2023-R41
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MONTEREY PARK DECLARING JUNE 2, 2023, NATIONAL GUN VIOLENCE AWARENESS DAY AND JUNE 3
rd and 4th AS WEAR ORANGE WEEKEND IN MONTEREY PARK
6. CITY COMMUNICATIONS (CITY COUNCIL)
6-A. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MONTEREY PARK
CONDEMNING THE MILITARY JUNTA OF MYANMAR (BURMA) FOR THE
OPPRESSION OF CIVILIANS WITH EXCESSIVE VIOLENCE AND STANDING
FIRMLY WITH THE PEOPLE OF BURMA IN THEIR PURSUIT FOR A FAIR,
JUST, AND SUSTAINABLE DEMOCRATIC SOVEREIGN GOVERNMENT
(REQUESTED BY MAYOR PRO TEM WONG)
Action Taken: The City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023-R42 condemning the military junta of Myanmar (Burma) for the oppression of civilians with excessive violence and standing firmly with the people of Burma in their pursuit for a fair, just, and sustainable democratic sovereign government.
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May 17, 2023
Motion: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Wong and seconded by Mayor Sanchez , motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Wong, Yiu, Ngo, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
Resolution No. 2023-R42
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MONTEREY PARK
CONDEMNING THE MILITARY JUNTA OF MYANMAR (BURMA) FOR THE
OPPRESSION OF CIVILIANS WITH EXCESSIVE VIOLENCE AND STANDING
FIRMLY WITH THE PEOPLE OF BURMA IN THEIR PURSUIT FOR A FAIR,
JUST, AND SUSTAINABLE DEMOCRATIC SOVEREIGN GOVERNMENT
6-B. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MONTEREY PARK RECOGNIZING THE MONTH OF JUNE 2023 AS LGBTQ PRIDE MONTH (REQUESTED BY COUNCIL MEMBER LO)
Action Taken: The City Council a dopted Resolution No. 2023-R43 recognizing the month of June 2023 as LGBTQ Pride Month.
Motion: Moved by Council Member Lo and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wong , motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Members: Lo, Wong, Yiu, Ngo, Sanchez
Noes: Council Members: None
Absent: Council Members: None
Abstain: Council Members: None
Recusal: Council Members: None
Resolution No. 2023-R43
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MONTEREY PARK RECOGNIZING THE MONTH OF JUNE 2023 AS LGBTQ PRIDE MONTH
Council Member Lo said he attended the Cinco de Mayo and the Play Day events and thanked City staff for delivering quality family programing for the community.
He reported his attendance at the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, Buddha Day and Interfaith Prayer Confirmation Ceremony.
Council Member Yiu reported she also attended the Tzu Chi event and the JFK Award Ceremony. She acknowledged Congresswoman Judy Chu’s achievements and expressed the City’s appreciation for her dedication. She mentioned her attendance to the City’s birthday celebration and Cinco de Mayo events.
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May 17, 2023
Council Member Ngo said he attended many of the same meetings. He spoke of the meeting with U.S. Trade Ambassador Katherine Tai where they had a vibrate discussion on bringing local businesses back to order after the tragic incident. He shared that h e attended Congresswoman Judy Chu Woman of the Year event along with other council members, and he was invol ved with 4 different AAPI celebrations in which he was a keynote speaker for the Asian Pacific Islanders Disability of California Youth Summit . He commented on his attendance at the Play Day and Cinco de Mayo event s, AAPI event organized by the Dodger organization, and that he had the opportunity to share his story at an American Automobile Association (AAA) AAPI event.
Mayor Pro Tem Wong directed staff to agendize the Regional Housing Trust item for a future meeting for discussion. H e reported his attend ance to the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) General Assembly as the City’s delegate where various issues including housing, homelessness, transportation, and funding were discussed. He said he also attended the Alhambra Latino Association dinner, and the Play Day / Cinco de Mayo celebrations. He directed staff to move forward with the planning process for a permanent memorial for the Jan. 21, 2023 tragedy and to involve the community, families of victims, and those affected directly by the tragedy; and to integrate the efforts into next year’s Lunar New Year festival.
Mayor Sanchez reported his attendance at a Mother’s Day event hosted by World Journal with Council Member Lo, and the Alhambra Latino Association banquet dinner with Mayor Pro Tem Wong. He thanked the Police and Fire Departments for visiting Brightwood Elementary at the Egg Drop event where his daughter attends school. He also thanked city staff for putting together the many events including Play Days and Cinco De Mayo.
7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
None.
8. CLOSED SESSION (IF REQUIRED; CITY ATTORNEY TO ANNOUNCE) - None.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business for consideration, the meeting was adjourned at 10:16 p.m. in memory of Gloria Molina, first Latina Assembly Member in California, on the Los Angeles City Council and LA County Board of Supervisors.
__________________________
Maychelle Yee
City Clerk
Approved on July 19, 2023, at the Regular City Council Meeting