CITY OF SAN FERNANDO
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING (Budget Study Session 1) – 5:00 P.M to 6:00 P.M.
REGULAR MEETING – 6:00 P.M.
MONDAY, MAY 18, 2026
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
117 MACNEIL STREET
SAN FERNANDO, CALIFORNIA 91340
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL – SPECIAL MEETING 5:00 P.M.
Mayor Joel Fajardo called the Special Meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Present:
Council: Mayor Joel Fajardo, Vice Mayor Victoria Garcia and Councilmembers Mary Mendoza, Mary Solorio and Patty Lopez
Staff: City Manager Kanika Kith, City Attorney Richard Padilla, Police Chief Fabian Valdez, Director of Recreation and Community Services Julio Salcedo, Director of Community Development Ron Garcia, Director of Public Works Bonnie Tam, and City Clerk Julia Fritz
Absent: None
TELECONFERENCING REQUEST None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Solorio to approve the agenda as presented. The motion carried, unanimously.
PUBLIC STATEMENTS None
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
1) DISCUSSION OF FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 BUDGET STUDY SESSION NO. 1 City Manager Kanika Kith and Director of Administrative Services Erica Melton presented the Budget overview staff report and responded to Councilmember questions.
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
The City Council approved $300/per Councilmember towards FY 26-27 certificate of recognitions; and directed staff to: a. Start including the new total amount of reserves after using the reserves in the budget impact section of staff reports; b. Provide information on the cost the County pays monthly for the lease of the pool (will need to reach out to County); c. Provide presentation on the cost for Liebert Cassidy Whitmore legal services costs on cases/settlements from Dec. 2012 to current; d. Trim back on events to save money (will be presented with Recreation and Community Services Department budget study session); e. Return with procedure and update procedure manual to include process for transferring Councilmember Community Investments Funds amongst Councilmembers (such as travel to conferences or cost for exceeding certificates allowance budget) and f.
Return with certificate design options with associated costs.
ADJOURNMENT OF THE SPECIAL MEETING 6:14
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Solorio to adjourn the special meeting at 6:14 p.m.
It was noted that the City Council recessed at 6:15 p.m. and reconvened at 6:30 p.m. for the regular City Council meeting.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL – REGULAR MEETING 6:00 P.M.
Mayor Joel Fajardo called the regular meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Present: Council: Mayor Joel Fajardo, Vice Mayor Victoria Garcia and Councilmembers Mary Mendoza, Mary Solorio, and Patty Lopez
Staff: City Manager Kanika Kith, City Attorney Richard Padilla, Police Chief Fabian Valdez, Director of Recreation and Community Services Julio Salcedo, Director of Community Development Ron Garcia, Director of Public Works Bonnie Tam, and City Clerk Julia Fritz
Absent: None
TELECONFERENCING REQUESTS/DISCLOSURE None
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Led by City Clerk Julia Fritz
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Solorio to approve the agenda. The motion carried, unanimously.
PRESENTATIONS
A. ANNUAL PROCLAMATION
• DECLARING MAY 17, 2026 TO MAY 23, 2026, AS NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK
PUBLIC STATEMENTS
Celia Rivas submitted a comment in support of Agenda Item No. 14.
Evelyn Hernandez submitted a comment in support of Agenda Item No. 14 D.R. Chavez provided comments in sign language.
Julian Ruelas commented on concerns related to the political atmosphere in the city.
It was noted that the public is asked to provide advanced notice to the City Clerk’s Office in order to provide language access services for public comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Vice Mayor Garcia requested to pull Consent Calendar Item No. 6 for discussion.
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Lopezto approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 through 5:
1) CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES for MARCH 19, 2026 SPECIAL CC MEETING.
2) CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE WARRANT REGISTER 3) RECEIVE AND FILE STATUS UPDATES FOR CITY PROJECTS AND CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES 4) CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT RESOLUTIONS APPROVING THE ENGINEER’S REPORT, AND DECLARING THE CITY’S INTENTION TO ORDER THE ANNUAL ASSESSMENTS AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE LEVY OF ASSESSMENTS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026- 2027 LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
5) CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A FULFILLMENT AGREEMENT WITH LOS ANGELES COUNTY
METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY FOR UNPROGRAMMED SURFACE
TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM-LOCAL FUNDS FOR THE FIXED ROUTE AMERICANS WITH
DISABILITIES ACT SIDEWALKS IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
The motion carried, unanimously.
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
The following items were heard out of order:
PUBLIC HEARING
7) A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTING AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED ZONING CODE UPDATE, SUBDIVISION CODE UPDATE, SPECIFIC PLAN-5 UPDATE, OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS, AND ZONING MAP UPDATE; ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A GENERAL PLAN LAND USE ELEMENT AMENDMENT; AND ADOPTION OF AN ADDENDUM TO AN INITIAL STUDY–MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Mayor Fajardo opened the public hearing.
Director of Community Development Ron Garcia presented the staff report and responded to Councilmember questions.
Mayor Fajardo opened the public comment portion of the hearing. There being no comments, Mayor Fajardo motioned, seconded by Mendoza to close public comment. The motion carried, unanimously.
Motion by Councilmember Solorio, seconded by Councilmember Mendoza to introduce for first reading, in title only, and waive further reading of Ordinance No. 1742 titled, “An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of San Fernando, California, Approving an Addendum to the Previously Approved Initial Study-Mitigated Negative Declaration (ISMND) (SCH#2021120390) for the Housing Element Update and Approving the Zoning Code Update, Subdivision Code Update, Specific Plan-5 Update, Objective Design Standards, and Zoning Map Update; these actions collectively referred to as the Housing Implementation Plan Project or HIP Project); adopt Resolution No. 8453 adopting a General Plan Land Use Element Amendment (these actions collectively referred to as the Housing Implementation Plan Project or HIP Project); and adopt an addendum to the previously approved Initial Study–Mitigated Negative Declaration (SCH #2021120390) for the City of San Fernando Housing Element Update Project finding that pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15162: the HIP Project does not cause any conditions beyond what was studied in the IS-MND, no subsequent IS-MND is required, and the addendum is the appropriate level of environmental analysis under CEQA Guidelines Section 15164. The motion carried, by the following vote:
ROLL CALL
AYES: Lopez, Solorio, Mendoza, Fajardo - 4
NAYES: Garcia - 1
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
10) DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED FIVE-YEAR SAN FERNANDO STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2026-2031 AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN
IMPLEMENTATION ACTION PLAN
City Manager Kith and representative from Baker Tilly presented the staff report and responded to Councilmember questions.
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
Motion by Vice Mayor Garcia, seconded by Councilmember Solorio to approve the proposed Five-year San Fernando Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2026-2031; as amended to replace the word “Progress” in the Mission Statement with “bettering our community”. The motion carried, unanimously.
12) RECEIVE AND FILE AN UPDATE REGARDING THE DESIGN FOR THE PACOIMA WASH
CONNECTIVITY PROJECT
Consultant Representatives from Kimley-Horn presented the staff report and responded to Councilmember questions.
The City Council provided direction to staff to return with additional information and feasibility analysis regarding several proposed park features and design elements.
Requested items include: evaluation of an alternative off-site location for the maintenance storage shed; incorporation of historical and educational elements honoring Cindy Montañez, including a biography, commemorative plaque, photograph, and QR code linking to information and videos regarding her accomplishments and public service; recommendations regarding tree species selection and landscaping palette; opportunities to preserve and enhance habitat for monarch butterflies, including consideration of native plants and educational components; evaluation of fitness equipment, playground equipment, picnic tables, shade structures, and other passive recreation amenities; feasibility and cost estimates for restroom facilities; consideration of a bicycle path along Glenoaks Boulevard; review of fencing and pergola materials with consideration of longterm maintenance needs; incorporation of the City seal on park signage; evaluation of design elements utilizing natural colors and materials; consideration of Native Americaninspired design elements where appropriate; and opportunities for water conservation and water capture features within the park design.
14) DISCUSSION REGARDING VOLUNTEER & COMMUNITY RECOGNITION RECEPTION – CHILDREN’S DAY EVENT 2026
Councilmember Patty Lopez presented the staff report.
Motion by Councilmember Lopez, seconded by Vice Mayor Garcia to approve the use of the City Council Chambers and Community Room for the Volunteer and Community Recognition Reception on Friday, May 22, 2026 beginning at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., noting no staff support. Councilmember Lopez would be responsible for cleaning up and locking City Hall, and would use her Community Investment Funds, if not enough funds, use Community Investment Funds from Mayor Fajardo and Vice Mayor Garcia accounts to cover $300 for the cost of certificate supplies. The motion carried, unanimously. 6) CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE AN OUTREACH PLAN FOR BUSINESSES LOCATED IN THE
PARKING AND BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT AREA B DISTRICT
Motion by Vice Mayor Garcia, seconded by Councilmember Lopez to approve an Outreach Plan for businesses located in the Parking and Business Improvement Area B District. The motion carried, unanimously.
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
The City Council directed staff to amend staff report background #6 on page 150 of the agenda packet, to insert after the word City, "was following Councilmember concerns regarding transparency of city issued funds, notice"; if possible or alternatively include verbiage in the minutes to reflect the specific direction; and potentially include a drop box at the Business and Community Resource Center related to suggestions on Area B.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
8) A PUBLIC HEARING TO PRESENT THE STATUS OF STAFF VACANCIES AND RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION EFFORTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AS REQUIRED BY GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 3502.3
Mayor Fajardo opened the public hearing.
Human Resources and Risk Manager Sergio Ibarra presented the staff report and responded to Councilmember questions.
Mayor Fajardo opened the public comment portion of the hearing.
The following provided general comments:
D.R. Chavez
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Mendoza to close public comment.
The motion carried, unanimously.
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Lopez to receive and file the City’s Position Vacancy and Recruitment and Retention Efforts Report for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025- 2026. The motion carried, unanimously.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
9) DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A SECOND READING TO ADOPT AN
ORDINANCE PROHIBITING CITY COUNCILMEMBERS FROM NOMINATING IMMEDIATE
FAMILY MEMBERS TO SERVE ON BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES AND OTHER
BODIES WHOSE MEMBERS ARE APPOINTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL
City Clerk Julia Fritz presented the staff report and responded to Councilmember questions.
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Lopez to approve for second reading, in title only, and waive further reading, and adopt Ordinance No. 1741 titled, “An Ordinance Prohibiting City Councilmembers from Nominating Immediate Family Members to Serve on Boards, Commissions and Committees and other Bodies Whose Members are Appointed by the City Council.” and amend the commissioner application to include a reference to Ordinance No. 1741.
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
The motion carried, by the following vote:
ROLL CALL
AYES: Lopez, Mendoza, Fajardo - 3
NAYES: Solorio - 1
ABSTAIN: Garcia - 1
ABSENT: None
11) DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO
PROVIDE WRITTEN NOTICE OF INTENT TO WITHDRAW MEMBERSHIP FROM THE
INDEPENDENT CITIES RISK MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY
City Manager Kith presented the staff report and responded to Councilmember questions.
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Solorio to adopt Resolution No. 8453 authorizing the City to provide a written notice of intent to withdraw membership from Independent Cities Risk Management Authority; and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to make non-substantive changes and execute all related documents. The motion caried, unanimously.
13) DISCUSSION REGARDING THE CITY’S FORMER AGREEMENT RELATED TO DISTRICT B IN THE DOWNTOWN MALL AREA (TABLED FROM THE MAY 12, 2026 CITY COUNCIL MEETING) Mayor Joel Fajardo presented the staff report.
Councilmember Solorio questioned whether the information was accurate related to a “whereas” in the resolution presented for adoption, stating that representatives associated with the corporate entity known as the San Fernando Mall Association indicated during a public meeting that the Outdoor Market events generate net proceeds of approximately $2,500 per event.
It was noted that the City Council recessed the meeting at 10:43 p.m. and reconvened at 11:01 p.m. in order to allow staff to research information pertaining to a statement made by the representative from the San Fernando Mall Association and staff confirmed that the statement was made.
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, seconded by Councilmember Lopez to adopt the resolution as presented by Mayor Fajardo. The motion carried, unanimously. 15) DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION TO STAFF REGARDING CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES AND
INITIATIVES
Mayor Joel Fajardo presented the staff report.
The City Council directed staff to return to a future meeting with costs associated with Liebert Cassidy Whitmore’s legal services; and to return in August with information regarding an Ai data center ban.
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
STAFF COMMUNICATION INCLUDING COMMISSION UPDATES
Assistant to the City Manager Pettner provided Commission updates:
Planning and Preservation Commission:
• Next meeting scheduled 7/13
Public Safety and Transportation Commission:
• Receiving update on traffic collision data at next meeting on 6/4 Parks, Wellness & Recreation Commission:
• Received budget and police activity update at 5/14 meeting Education Commission:
• Receiving update on UCLA Early Head Start Programming at next meeting on 5/19 • Education Commission Scholarship Ceremony on 5/27, 6-7:30PM at Rudy Ortega, Sr. Park Updates were also provided on the following: Solid Waste Services - Community Workshops in Council Chambers on 5/19, 6-7PM & 5/20, 10-11AM; Memorial Day Ceremony – 5/25, 12:30- 3PM at American Legion Post 176; Regional Center on Wheels – 5/27, 9:30AM-12:30PM at Recreation Park Playground; Job Fair led by Northeast San Fernando Valley WorkSource Center – 5/27, 1:30-4PM at Las Palmas Park Gym; Foodzilla – 5/30, 5-9PM in Front of City Hall; City Beautification Project – Damaged Street Light Repair.
GENERAL CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS AND LIAISON UPDATES Councilmember Lopez reported having an event, coffee with businesses and wished the two Councilmember candidates the best of luck in the upcoming election and encouraged residents to vote.
Councilmember Mendoza noted she attended the Senior Fest and Resource Fair at Las Palmas Park.
Councilmember Solorio expressed thanks to staff and colleagues for a productive meeting.
Vice Mayor Garcia encouraged everyone to vote in the election. She mentioned attending the Southern California Association of Governments Annual Conference and General Assembly, the World Cup and Veterans Ad hoc meetings, California Contract Cities Annual Municipal Seminar and the Los Angeles County Water Resiliency Summit.
Mayor Fajardo thanked staff for their work, encouraged residents to vote and commented on meeting the R3 consultants this evening.
SAN FERNANDO CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES – Special and Regular Meeting May 18, 2026
ADJOURNMENT 11:25 pm
Motion by Mayor Fajardo, second by Councilmember Solorio, to adjourn the special meeting of May 18, 2026 to the special meeting of May 26, 2026.
I do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and
correct copy of the minutes of the May 18, 2026,
Regular meeting and approved by the San Fernando
City Council at the meeting of June 29, 2026.
_________________________________________
Julia Fritz, CMC
City Clerk