CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
March 13, 2023-4:30 P.M.
City Hall Council Chamber
Teleconference Location:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Worthington Business Center
1250 Ryans Road Worthington, MN 56187
The regular meeting was convened and held virtually by videoconference/teleconference.
OPENING:
ROLL CALL:
Councilmembers:
Staff:
CEREMONIAL MATTERS
SPECIAL ITEM
Mayor Gordo called the regular meeting to order at 5:36 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was led by Dr. David Goatley, Fuller Seminary President. (Absent: Councilmember Madison)
Mayor Victor M. Gordo
Vice Mayor Felicia Williams
Councilmember Tyron Hampton
Councilmember Justin Jones
Councilmember Jason Lyon
Councilmember Steve Madison (participated virtually)
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Councilmember Jessica Rivas
City Manager Miguel Marquez
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Michele Beal Bagneris
City Clerk Mark Jomsky
The Mayor recognized the Polytechnic School Girls Varsity Water Polo Team on their 2022-2023 CIF-SS Division 5 Girls Water Polo Championship; and the Rose City Crystals Synchronized Ice Skating Team on placing 3rd in the Open Juvenile Event at the 2023 US Figure Skating Pacific Coast Synchronized Skating Sectional Championships. Mayor Gordo presented the coaches and teams with commendations.
PARTNERSHIP WITH THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO
EXPAND ESSENTIAL HEALTHCARE AND MENTAL HEALTH
SERVICES IN THE CITY OF PASADENA
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2),15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required for the project; and (2) Direct the City Manager to work with Los Angeles County to explore the feasibility of identifying appropriate properties in the City of Pasadena for possible co-location and joint occupation for purposes expanding essential health care and mental health outpatient services in the City.
Council Minutes103/13/2023
Councilmember Madison
arrived via teleconference
at 5:48 p.m.
Mayor Gordo presented information on the agenda item and spoke on the efforts of the working group. He spoke on the need for mental health workers and clinicians throughout the state and local communities. The Mayor introduced members of the working group:
Fuller Seminary President David Goatley, Dean of Fuller School of Psychology Dr. Ted Cosse, Pacific Oaks President Dr. Jack Paduntin, and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Bree Cook, who will be participating in the effort as potential resources for preparing and educating the mental health workforce.
Jane Haderlein, representing Huntington Hospital, Anders Corey, representing Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Dr. David Goatiey, representing Fuller School of Psychology, and Dr. Paduntin, representing Pacific Oaks College, briefly spoke on the matter surrounding mental health and expressed their support and appreciation to the City of Pasadena for coordinating this collaborative effort.
Councilmember Jones, as a working group member, stated his support for this effort noting that mental health should not be stigmatized, as it affects all of us, and especially those that live in marginalized communities; and expressed his support for the City, as well as the community partners, to work collaboratively in bringing mental health resources and outpatient resources to Pasadena. He expressed his support for the recommendation.
Councilmember Lyon thanked the working group and Mayor Gordo for their work, noting the importance of ensuring the availability of mental health services for community members. Building on the comments of Councilmember Jones, Councilmember Lyon noted the disproportionate impact the mental health crises has had on marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ+ community. In that regard, he asked Dr. Goatley, Fuller School of Psychology, to speak about the care provided for secular care and the issue of requiring the affirming of identity.
In response, Dr. Goatley, representing Fuller School of Psychology stated that the Fuller School is fully accredited and abides by all the requirements to treat as people, wherever they are, with care and compassion and competence. He stated Fuller Seminary is part of the global evangelical Christian community to distinguish from American Evangelical and its political ideology. He stated that Fuller Seminary does not discriminate in terms of patient care, and reemphasized that they are committed to treat all people with respect, care, compassion and with the dignity that they deserve.
Dr. Cosse, Dean of Fuller School of Psychology, shared statistics on Fuller's mental health clinic and the training conducted in compliance with the standards of the American Psychological Association (APA). He stated the APA has clear guidelines related Council Minutes203/13/2023
Li
to persons who identify as LGBTQ, and that the School operates within those guidelines. He emphasized that students are trained to treat all patients regardless of race, ethnicity, or persons who identify as LGBTQ (protected categories recognized by the government.
Councilmember Lyon thanked Dr. Goatley and Dr. Cosse for their responses, and acknowledged the great work at the Thrive Center.
Vice Mayor Williams stated she looks forward to seeing the research and data that will help the City Council make informed decisions in terms of supporting mental health services in the City, and thanked the Mayor for taking the lead to bring all the community working group partners together in support of this effort, commenting that the Kaiser School of Medicine might also be considered as a community partner at a later time.
In response to questions raised by Councilmember Rivas regarding the Los Angeles County's motion that identified neighborhoods in northern Pasadena, including District 5, as high priority, Mayor Gordo stated the LACDMH report calls out a swath of the City as high priority, and in order to align the City's funding needs with the County goals, the motion called out specifically the study and what the study identified as neighborhoods in the City that are highly impacted and in real need of primary health care services and mental health services.
Councilmember Rivas asked staff to provide a copy of the LACDMH 2021 Report cited by Mayor Gordo for her further review, and requested as this moves forward Councilmembers within impacted districts be kept informed to provide ideas and feedback. She stated that if appropriate, given the stated high priority area, the Northwest Commission should be included in the work moving forward.
Councilmember Madison stated the following for the record, "that it is one thing if we are supporting the Supervisors' effort with regard to a particular community, and it may not be good, bad or indifferent, in terms of our policy goals. But I think that's an important piece and we ought not to be ambiguous about that. My reading is that it is targeted in a particular place, and I think we should be cleared eyed about that." Councilmember Madison expressed concerns and raised several questions regarding the potential services provided by the professionals affiliated with Fuller School of Psychology, and questioned whether Fuller students are required to take any covenant promise about their own personal, sexual, and romantic lives when they are affiliated with the Fuller School. He stated that bodies should represent the communities that they serve, and expressed uneasiness in partnering with entities that are not embracing or reflective of the entire community.
Council Minutes303/13/2023
Following discussion, Dr. Goatley stated that Fuller does not ask people about their sexual identity or how they identify, but that students, faculty and staff are expected to subscribe to the conduct covenant that touches upon a variety of issues, from respecting the physical space of people, academic integrity, property, etc., and stated that the conduct covenant does not preclude them from pursing their professional work in ways that are caring and affirming to people without regard to their identity. In response to Councilmember Madison's questions regarding same gender marriages or relationships, he stated Fuller Seminary does not admit same gender couples as students.
Councilmember Madison expressed discomfort with an exclusion of a significant segment of the community, particularly if the City of Pasadena is being asked to lend its name to a joint venture partner.
He stated that it would be his desire that unless the Fuller School revises its policies, and is more inclusive with persons within the Pasadena community, that Fuller not be part of this effort.
Councilmember Lyon spoke in support of conversations occurring among potential partnership entities to determine what will or will not work, but noted that the motion before the City Council tonight is direction to the City Manager to work with Los Angeles County to explore the feasibility of identifying appropriate properties in the City of Pasadena for possible co-tocation and joint occupation for purposes of expanding essential healthcare and mental health outpatient services in the City, which he supports.
In response to questions raised by Councilmember Masuda regarding suicide and preventative work, Jane Haderlein, representing Huntington Hospital spoke on the issue of suicide, the effects on the families, friends and the community it can have for generations; noting the greatest barrier is getting help and support to those in need, when they first have symptoms, as well as after- patient care for those discharged (e.g., 51/50 hold). She commented that through partnerships and collaborations care can be delivered effectively, including for those that pay on a sliding scale.
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk, reported that seven letters in support of a mental health outpatient program and collaboration with Los Angeles County, and one letter suggesting that City staff collaborate with existing mental health service providers in the City, were received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted on-line, and made part of the public record.
The following individuals expressed their support for the agenda item and advocated for a program similar to the Crisis Assistance Helping Out on the Streets (CAHOOTS) program:
Council Minutes403/13/2023
i
PUBLIC COMMENT ON
MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
Areta Crowell, retired director of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health
Bert Newton, Pasadena resident
Mayor Gordo thanked Supervisor Kathryn Barger and Anders Corey, representing Supervisor Barger, and all the partners that have contributed to this point, stating it is about providing outpatient services and case management to people and families in need and facilitating these services within Pasadena, commenting once a location is established and services are co-located, there is potential to also consider looking at housing services and other services that the community requires. He shared that Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) contacted him about a potential
collaboration and stated he intends to speak with the Supervisor regarding potential partnership on that issue as well.
It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by
Councilmember Hampton, to approve the recommendation:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The following individuals provided comments on streamlining the City's rooftop solar system permit approvals utilizing the application SolarApp+ to meet California's new SB 379 requirement, and shared that California Energy Commission is providing grant funding, available until May 1, 2023 through the CalAPP program to help cities recover the cost of establishing an automated online solar permitting platform:
Derek Schulte, Pasadena resident
Susan Dembowski, Pasadena resident
Warren Skidmore, Pasadena resident, announced the Pasadena Unified School District's Science Fest is taking place on April 22, 2023, at John Muir High School, and invited the City Council and the community to attend the event.
Alien Shay, Pasadena resident, reiterated his request that the City Council review and discuss how the City is utilizing bodycam and other video sources as part of the investigative process for critical incidences, such as in the Anthony McClain case, and for City Council to change the City Charter regarding police matters.
Olden Denham, Pasadena resident spoke on the need for
accountability and transparency within the Pasadena Police Department (PPD); spoke on the bodycam footage and advocated Council Minutes503/13/2023
Vice Mayor Williams left
the meeting at 7:14 p.m.
CONSENT CALENDAR
for holding accountable the Officers involved in the shooting of Anthony McClain.
Ryan Bell, Pasadena resident, commented on the recent finding of a deceased man on the streets of Pasadena, and expressed concerns that this was not acknowledged by the media or by the Police Department, and expressed concerns regarding the lack of a bad weather shelter in the City.
The City Manager stated that staff is aware of the grant funding related to the automated system that will streamline solar permitting; noting the City intends to comply with the legal requirements before the September 1, 2023 deadline.
In response to Mr. Bell's comments, Councilmember Rivas noted that she has been in contact with the City Manager regarding the deceased individual, discussing how such information can be shared with City Council and the public more broadly, and suggestd that perhaps this information could be shared through the City Manager's weekly newsletter.
The City Manager stated in respect to this specific case, it is being looked at by the coroner, but stated he would review and report back on how deaths are tracked and reported to the public and the City Council.
CONTRACT AWARD TO PSOMAS; PACIFICA SERVICES INC.,
KPFF INC.; KOA CORPORATION; AND INTERWEST
CONSULTING GROUP FOR ON-CALL PROJECT
MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$1,000,000 FOR EACH CONSULTANT (Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find the project proposed in the agenda report to be categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines in accordance with Title 14, Chapter 3, Article 5, Section 15061(b)(3), the General Rule that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into individual contracts, as the result of a competitive selection process specified by Section
4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with Psomas; Pacifica Services Inc.; KPFF Inc., dba KPFF Consulting Engineers; KOA Corporation; and Interwest Consulting Group for On-Call Project Management Services for a total amount not-to-exceed $1,000,000 for each consultant over a four-year term. Competitive bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F) (contracts for professional or unique services); and (Contract No. 32567, 32568, 32569, 32570, and 32571)
(3) Authorize the City Manager to extend the term of the contracts as necessary without increasing the not-to-exceed amount.
Council Minutes603/13/2023
CONTRACT AWARD TO CALIAGUA INC., TO FURNISH AND
DELIVER LABOR, EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS FOR THE
GARFIELD REPLACEMENT WELL ABOVE-GRADE
IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE WATER AND POWER
DEPARTMENT (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is within the scope of the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program that were adopted by the City Council on August 16, 2021, for the Garfield Replacement Well project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") and that there have been no changes to the project, no changes with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken, and no new information of substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects, or otherwise trigger the need for subsequent or supplemental CEQA
documentation; and
(2) Accept the bid dated January 12, 2023, submitted by Caliagua Inc., in response to Specification WD-22-07 to furnish labor, equipment, and materials necessary to perform the Garfield Replacement Well Above-Grade Improvements; reject all other bids received; and authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with Caliagua Inc., in an amount not-to-exceed $3,565,930, which includes the base amount of $3,215,930 and a contingency of $350,000 to provide for any necessary change orders. (Contract No. 32538)
AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO CONTRACTS WITH THREE
YOUTH SERVICE PROVIDERS AND ONE PROGRAM
EVALUATOR FOR THE PASADENA INTERVENTION AND
PREVENTION PROJECT (Public Health Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060©(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required for the project;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into three contracts, as the result of a competitive selection process specified by Section
4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, for Pasadena
Intervention and Prevention Project Client Supportive Services with the following organizations. Competitive bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F) contracts for professional or unique services:
a. Flintridge Center for an amount not-to-exceed $90,000 through June 30, 2025; (Contract No.32563)
b. Harambee Christian Family Center, DBA Harambee
Ministries for an amount not-to-exceed $90,000 through June 30, 2025; and (Contract No. 32564)
Council Minutes703/13/2023
c. Pasadena/Altadena Coalition of Transformative Leaders ("PACTL") for an amount not-to-exceed $90,000 through June 30, 2025; and (Contract No. 32565)
(3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as the result of a competitive selection process specified by Section 4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with Southern California Center for Nonprofit Management, DBA Center for Nonprofit Management for Program Evaluation Services for the Pasadena Intervention and Prevention Project for an amount not-to-exceed $150,000 through December 31, 2025. Competitive bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F) contracts for professional or unique services. (Contract No. 32566)
AUTHORIZATION TO INCREASE PURCHASE ORDER NO.
1231446 WITH LIVHOME INC., TO PROVIDE HOMEMAKER
SERVICES FOR THE TRANSITIONAL AGE YOUTH (TAY) LINK
AND GERIATRIC EMPOWERMENT MODEL (GEM) LINK
PROGRAMS (Public Health Dopt.)
The above item was pulled from the agenda and was not considered.
AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE ORDER WITH
MILSOFT UTILITY SOLUTIONS INC., FOR SOFTWARE,
TECHNICAL SUPPORT, AND MAINTENANCE OF THE OUTAGE
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$611,501 FOR THE WATER AND POWER DEPARTMENT (Water
& Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a Purchase Order ("PO") Contract without competitive bidding pursuant to the City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services, with Milsoft Utility Solutions Inc. ("Milsoft"), to provide Software, Technical Support, and Maintenance for the Outage Management System ("QMS") for the Water and Power Department ("PWP") in an amount not-to-exceed $611,501 for five years; and (3) Grant the proposed PO an exemption from the Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section
4.08.049(B), contracts for which the City's best interests are served.
AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND CONTRACT NOS. 31950 AND
32010 WITH UNION STATION HOMELESS SERVICES TO
EXTEND THE TERM AND ADD FUNDING FOR HOMELESS
SERVICES PROGRAMS (Housing Dept.)
Council Minutes803/13/2023
L
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Ac" ("C"QA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the "common sense" provision that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to amend Contract No. 31950 with Union Station Homeless Services to increase the contract value by $35,000 for a total not-to-exceed contract value of $168,728 through September 30, 2023; (Contract No. 31950-2)
(3) Authorize the City Manager to amend Contract No. 32010 with Union Station Homeless Services to increase the contract value by $70,000 for a total not-to-exceed contract value of $1,250,514 through September 30, 2023; (Contract No. 32010-2)
(4) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments for Contract Nos. 31950 and 32010 which extend the term beyond September 30, 2023; and
(5) To the extent the amendments to Contract Nos. 31950 and 32010 could be considered a separate procurement subject to the Competitive Selection Process, grant the contracts an exemption pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) Section 4.08.049(B), contracts for which the City's best interests are served. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F) AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND CONTRACT NO. 25,558 WITH THE
CITY OF LOS ANGELES TO PROVIDE HOUSING
OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH AIDS TENANT-BASED
RENTAL ASSISTANCE (Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Ac" ("C"QA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the "General Rule" that CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment; and
(2) Authorize the City Manager to amend Contract No. 25,558 with the City of Los Angeles to add $298,830 for a not-to-exceed total of $579,500 and extend the term through June 30, 2023, to support the continued provision of Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS (hlOPWA)-funded rental assistance.
CONTRACT AWARD TO FS CONTRACTORS INC., FOR NORTH
HILL AVENUE COMPLETE STREETS PROJECT FOR AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $850,805 (Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find the project proposed in the agenda report to be categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines in accordance with Title 14, Chapter 3, Ari;icle 19, Section 15301, Class 1, Existing Facilities, and that there are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances; and
Council Minutes903/13/2023
L
(2) Accept the bid dated November 30, 2022, submitted by FS Contractors Inc., in response to the project plans and specifications for North Hill Avenue Complete Streets Project, reject all other bids received, and authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract for an amount not-to-exceed $850,805, which includes the base contract amount of $709,004 and a contingency of $141,801 to provide for any necessary change orders. (Contract No. 32476) FINANCE COMMITTEE: RECOGNIZE AND APPROPRIATE
GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $42,981 FROM THE BLACK
GOLD COOPERATIVE LIBRARY SYSTEM TO THE
DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICES'
FISCAL YEAR 2023 OPERATING BUDGET (Libraries &
Information Sen/ices Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required for the project; and
(2) Recognize and appropriate $42,981 from the Black Gold Cooperative Library System to the Department of Libraries and Information Services' Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budget to support the Black Gold: Stronger Together Early Learning Hub Grant project. (Budget Amendment No. 2023-20)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: QUARTERLY INVESTMENT REPORT -
QUARTER ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2022
Recommendation: The agenda report is for information only.
FINANCE COMMITTEE: AMENDMENT TO THE HOUSING
DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL YEAR 2023 OPERATING BUDGET
AND AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND CONTRACT NO. 31830 WITH
THE FID GROUP DBA FRIENDS IN DEED WITH ADDITIONAL
FUNDING FOR THE PROVISION OF MOTEL VOUCHERS
(Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Ac" ("C"QA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines per Section 15061(b)(3), the "common sense" provision that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment;
(2) Amend the Housing Department's Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budget by transferring $100,000 from the unappropriated fund balance in the General Fund (101) to the Housing Department's Other Housing Fund (238) for expenses associated with the provision of weather-activated motel vouchers to people experiencing homelessness as detailed in the background section of the agenda report; (Budget Amendment No. 2023-21)
Council Minutes1003/13/2023
RESIGNATIONS,
APPOINTMENTS, &
REAPPOINTMENTS
CLAIMS RECEIVED
L
PUBLIC HEARING
Vice Mayor Williams
returned to the meeting
at 7:18 p.m.
(3) Authorize the City Manager to amend Contract No. 31830 with The FID Group, dba Friends In Deed, to increase the total contract value by up to $100,000 for emergency shelter services as detailed in the body of the agenda report. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F) (contracts for professional or unique services); and
(4) To the extent the amendment could be considered a separate procurement subject to the Competitive Selection Process, grant the contract an exemption pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) Section 4.08.049(B), contracts for which the City's best interests are served. (Contract No. 31830-7)
APPOINTMENT OF LAUREN SIEGEL TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL
ADVISORY COMMISSION (District 1 Nomination)
APPOINTMENT OF RACHEL STONE TO THE
RELATIONS COMMISSION (District 7 Nomination)
HUMAN
APPOINTMENT OF DAN STENZ TO THE PASADENA CENTER
OPERATING COMPANY BOARD (Hotel Nomination)
APPOINTMENT OF MICHAEL OCON TO THE PASADENA
COMMUNITY ACCESS CORPORATION BOARD (District 5
Nomination)
APPOINTMENT OF DION FERGUSON TO THE
COMMISSION (Pasadena Senior Center Nomination)
SENIOR
Claim No.
2023-0232
2023-0233
2023-0234
2023-0235
Claimant
Bob Hatch
Robert Brian Severson
Jamie Palumbo
Svetlana Brouke
Claim Amount
$ 2,241.90
406.00
Not stated
25,000.00+
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Masuda, to approve all items on the Consent Calendar:
Lyon, Madison, AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones,
Masuda, Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Vice Mayor Williams
ABSTAIN: None
PUBLIC HEARING: SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO ANNUAL
ACTION PLAN (2022-2023) FOR HOME INVESTMENT
PARTNERSHIP ACT PROGRAM FUNDS
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council cancel the public hearing.
Council Minutes1103/13/2023
Council Minutes
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Masuda, to cancel the public hearing:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
PUBLIC HEARING: DESIGNATION OF 731 EAST WASHINGTON
BOULEVARD AS A LANDMARK
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the designation of a historic resource is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15308, Class 8 of the CEAQ Guidelines pertaining to Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment and there are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances;
(2) Find that the former drive-in market building at 731 East Washington Boulevard meets Criterion C as a landmark pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) Section 17.62.040.D.2.c because it is a rare, intact example of an early automobile-related drive-in market that was converted into an auto servicing garage early in its history. It is additionally significant as a distinctive example of the Art Deco architectural style, designed by prolific local architect Glenn Elwood Smith, whose work is of significance to the City; (3) Adopt a resolution approving a Declaration of Landmark Designation for 731 East Washington Boulevard, Pasadena, California; (Resolution No. 9985)
(4) Authorize the Mayor to execute a Declaration of Landmark Designation for 731 East Washington Boulevard, Pasadena, California; and
(5) Direct the City Clerk to record the declaration with the Los Angeles County Recorder.
Recommendation of the Historic Preservation Commission: On January 17, 2023, the hlistoric Preservation Commission recommended that the City Council approve the designation of the former drive-in market building at 731 East Washington Boulevard as a Landmark under Criterion C of PMC Section 17.62.040.
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk, opened the public hearing; reported that 84 postcards were mailed on February 27, 2023 and 19 copies of the public hearing notice were posted on February 27, 2023; and reported that one letter in support and one letter in opposition to the staff recommendation, were received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted on-line, and made part of the public record.
Councilmember Rivas thanked staff and congratulated the applicant. 12 03/13/2023
It was moved by Councilmember Rivas, seconded by
Councilmember hlampton, to close the public hearing:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
It was moved by Councilmember Rivas, seconded by
Councilmember Hampton, to approve the staff recommendation:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
PUBLIC HEARING:DESIGNATION
BUILDING AT 489
OF THE HARRY
EAST COLORADO FITZGERALD
BOULEVARD AS A LANDMARK
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the designation of a historic resource is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15308, Class 8 of the CEQA Guidelines pertaining to Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment and there are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances;
(2) Find that the Harry Fitzgerald Building at 489 E. Colorado Boulevard meets Criterion C as a landmark pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) Section 17.62.040.D.2.c because it embodies the distinctive characteristics of the Georgian Revival and Neoclassical architectural styles and represents the work of local notable architectural firm Bennett & Haskell, whose work is of significance to the City;
(3) Adopt a resolution approving a Declaration of Landmark Designation for 489 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, California; (Resolution No. 9986
(4) Authorize the Mayor to execute a Declaration of Landmark Designation for 489 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, California; and)
(5) Direct the City Clerk to record the declaration with the Los Angeles County Recorder.
Recommendation of the Historic Preservation Commission: On January 17, 2023, the Historic Preservation Commission
recommended that the City Council approve the designation of the Harry Fitzgerald Building at 489 E. Colorado Boulevard as a Landmark under Criterion C of PMC Section 17.62.040.
Council Minutes1303/13/2023
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk, opened the public hearing; reported that 68 postcards were mailed on February 27, 2023 and 24 copies of the public hearing notice were posted on February 27, 2023; and reported that one letter in support of the staff recommendation was received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted on-line, and made part of the public record.
It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by
Councilmember Hampton, to close the public hearing:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by
Councilmember Lyon, to approve the staff recommendation:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Following the public hearings, City Manager Marquez announced that Jennifer Paige has been officially appointed to serve as Director of Planning and Community Development. He also announced that Tiffany Jacobs-Quinn was appointed to serve as Director of Human Resources, and Alex Souto was appointed to serve as Deputy City Manager overseeing risk management and employee wellness.
AMENDMENT TO THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL
YEAR 2023 OPERATING BUDGET AND APPROVAL OF KEY
TERMS OF AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT NO. 23,651 WITH
HHP-FOOTHILL, LLC FOR DEVELOPMENT OF INTERIM
HOUSING PROJECT AT 2322 E. FOOTHILL BOULEVARD FOR
TRANSITION AGE YOUTH (Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed housing financing, acquisition, and rehabilitation activity, as described in the agenda report, does not have a significant effect on the environment and has been determined to be categorically exempt under Class 1 (Existing Facilities) (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301) and Class 26 (Acquisition of Housing) State CEQA Guidelines Section 15326; (2) Approve a budget amendment to increase the hlousing Department's Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budget by a net amount of $729,500 in funding appropriations for the HHP Transition Age Youth Housing project consisting of a $1,000,000 increase in appropriations in the Home Investment Partnership Fund (HOME) Council Minutes1403/13/2023
u
and a $270,500 decrease of appropriations in the Inclusionary Housing Trust Funds; and
(3) Approve certain key business terms, as described in the agenda report, of the proposed Amendment to Affordable Housing Loan Agreement No. 23,651 with HHP-Foothill, LLC, and authorize the City Manager to execute any and all documents necessary to effectuate the staff recommendation.
Following brief comments, it was moved by Vice Mayor Williams, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to approve the staff recommendation:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
APPROVAL OF THE FEDERAL & STATE LEGISLATIVE
PLATFORMS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2023
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required; and
(2) Approve the Federal Legislative Platform and the State Legislative Platform for calendar year 2023.
Recommendation of the Legislative Policy Committee: At the March 7, 2023, meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee, the Committee approved the staff recommendations. Additionally, the Committee recommended amending both platforms to note that City Council declared a climate emergency on January 30, 2023 and set a goal to source 100% of Pasadena's electricity from carbon free sources by 2030. Lastly, the Committee noted its intent to revisit the platforms later this year to discuss potential changes to the documents' structure and tone to further support city priorities with unified, proactive advocacy.
Councilmember Madison, Chair of the Legislative Policy Committee, summarized the Committee's discussion on the recommended changes, and also noted the potential to discuss issues contained in the City's platforms at the City Council's upcoming strategic planning retreat, which include the 710 relinquishment and the recent action of the City Council declaring a climate emergency and its carbon free energy goals by 2030.
Councilmember Lyon thanked staff and the Committee for the report and revisions to the platform. He suggested adding cross level government issues to the platform on more global societal issues Council Minutes1503/13/2023
City Clerk
Mayor Gordo recused
himself due to a potential
conflict and left the
meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Councilmember Madison
left the meeting at 7:59
p.m.
facing Pasadena, including the City's housing policies and approaches to homelessness. He noted that this body would be more influential if there was a more cogent position about what the Council would do if they had more local control over the housing crisis. He stated that the City Council retreat would be a great place to discuss the housing crisis and how we solve some of the problems, along with further discussion on the matter through the Legislative Policy Committee to formulate a broader scale policy position beyond funding.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Madison, seconded by Councilmember Masuda, to approve the staff
recommendation:
AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Rivas, Vice Mayor Williams, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
INFORMATIONAL UPDATE ON THE PASADENA RENTAL
HOUSING BOARD (PRHB) APPLICATION PROCESS
Recommendation: The agenda report is for information only; no action is required.
Mayor Gordo stated that the City Attorney has requested advice on whether or not he can participate in matters related to the PRHB application process, as it relates to his continued recusal on these matters, given that he owns rental property in the City of Pasadena.
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk, presented a Powerpoint presentation on the item, and responded to questions.
Councilmember Hampton requested that staff provide a framework for the City Council to utilize (ranking and tallying nominations of applicants), hie also expressed concern with the staff's suggestion that a possible selection scenario could be the Mayor nominates two At-Large members, given that the Mayor has recused himself during PRHB discussions. He also raised questions surrounding relatives working together on the board.
Following a discussion on the Mayor's eligibility to participate, and possible selection scenarios for Mayor's nominations of At-Large members, the City Clerk stated that an alternative framework will be provided for the At-Large selection process should the Mayor not be able to participate. He suggested each Councilmember submit their top 5 At-Large nominees by Thursday, April 13, 2023, and he would tally the nominees and identify the nominees that received the most support from members of the City Council.
Council Minutes1603/13/2023
r
.J
Councilmember Rivas echoed Councilmember Hampton's request regarding having a framework in place prior to the City Council meeting that would provide a smaller pool for the Council to consider during the appointment process; and stated that she is very reluctant to give any additional privileges or picks to the Mayor given that Measure H does not mention the Mayor.
The City Attorney and City Clerk noted that in all other legislative bodies of the City that are appointed by the City Council, the Mayor is a member of the City Council, and therefore has at least the same nominating and appointing authority of all other members of the City Council. The suggested framework provided by staff is consistent with prior appointing practices, with the variance in this instance impacted by the potential conflict of this Mayor.
Councilmember Lyon thanked the City Clerk for the presentation and expressed his support for a framework around ranking and tallying each nominee. He noted his preference that the City Council should have at least some input into each Council District nominee, and perhaps more so than has occurred traditionally with other commissions. He pointed to the uniqueness of this body as a "start- up" and having oversight of a significant budget and issue that impacts the entire City. He noted that the City Council as the elected body should be mindful of appointing members, who are not elected, to a body that holds power over budgeting and staffing, as well as final decision-making on disputes between resident tenants and landlords, hie stated his strong preference for having more confidence in his colleagues' nominees than he feels he needs when appointments are made to an advisory commission, and suggested that Councilmembers might list the qualifications of their nominees when presenting during the City Council meeting.
Following discussion, and in response to questions, the City Clerk stated that the measure does not provide any guidelines as far as qualifications and only touches upon requirements that a tenant member (or their extended family) must not have material interests in rental property in Los Angeles County. He noted that between now and the April deadline, is the time for Councilmembers to contact and vet applicants, and noted that appointments can be made at a regular or special meeting, so long as the body is appointed by the 120-day deadline of April 21, 2023.
The City Attorney reminded the City Council the matter is in litigation and the court has asked that the Council refrain from making appointments until April 17th, or after the court rules at the hearing scheduled for March 28th, and stated the City Attorney's Office has put in a request for advice on the determination of the Mayor's eligibility to nominate board members with the hope being that the advice will be provided on or before April 17th.
Council Minutes1703/13/2023
ADJOURNMENT
^- ATTES;
Councilmember Masuda asked the City Clerk to circulate information to the City Council on the nomination process to ensure there is a clear understanding on the selection process for the tenant members and at-large members.
Following discussion, there appeared to be general consensus around a scenario allowing the Mayor to nominate 1-2 At-Large applicants, and also participate in the nomination/ranking of 5 At- Large applicants.
Councilmember Rivas suggested separately considering the Council District Tenant nominations on April 17th, from the At-Large nominations at a separate special meeting, which would allow more time for deliberation and insight into the district nominations as Councilmember Lyon suggested. She supported his request that Councilmembers be prepared to discuss their nominations in detail.
Following discussion, the City Clerk suggested calendaring the April 17th, 19th and 20th dates for possible appointments, ahead of the April 21st Charter-imposed deadline.
The City Clerk recapped the discussion, noting the deadline for applicants to submit completed applications will be March 23rd, with staff to provide all the applications for review, and with Councilmembers to submit to the City Clerk one Tenant District nomination and one Tenant Alternative nomination by April 13th, and with the Mayor and Councilmembers to submit 5 nominations to the City Clerk, utilizing a 1 to 5 rating scale (1 the highest ranking, 5 the lowest ranking) for At-large nominations also by April 13th, with the plan for the City Council to appoint the Tenant District Members on April 17th, and theAt-Large Members on either April 19th and/or April 20th, ensure the process is complete prior to April 21, 2023.
Councilmember Jones suggested that staff consider inviting all the At-Large applicants to attend the April 19th and April 20th special meeting.
On the order of the Vice Mayor, and consensus of the City Council, the information was received and filed.
On order of the Vice Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adjouj-ned at 8:23 p.m,
nc"^^
Victor M. Gordo, May^
City of Pasadena
A
Cily^Clerki
Council Minutes1803/13/2023