Kelly Kriebs, Mayor
MINUTES Robert Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem
REGULAR MEETING Edward Garcia, Council Member
SIERRA MADRE CITY COUNCIL Gene Goss, Council Member
Kristine Lowe, Council Member
Michael Amerio, City Treasurer
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
5:30 pm
CITY
City of Sierra Madre
City Council Chambers
232 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard
Sierra Madre, California 91024 IRRA MAS
The Brown Act provides the public with an opportunity to make public comments at any public meeting; As an alternative to attending the meeting in person, public comment may be made by e-mail to [email protected] by 3:00 PM on the day of the meeting. E- mails will be acknowledged at the Council meeting, filed into public record, and scanned onto the City website for public review.
The meeting will be streamed live on the City's website at www.SierraMadreCA.gov, on Foothills Media website at http://www.foothillsmedia.org/sierramadre and broadcast on Government Access Channel 3 (Spectrum).
CODE OF CONDUCT
The purpose of a City Council meeting is to conduct City business. Members of the public that behave in a manner that interrupts or obstructs the Council's ability to conduct City business may be asked to leave the meeting. Any and all demonstrations that disrupt, interrupt, or obstruct the Council's ability to conduct City business are prohibited. No signs, posters or other large objects shall be brought into the Council Chambers or other meeting place if doing so would disrupt, disturb or otherwise impede the orderly course of the meeting
2 CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, Council Member Garcia, Council Member Goss, Council Member Lowe
Mayor Kriebs called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. City Clerk Aguilar called the roll.
Present: Mayor Kelly Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Robert Parkhurst, and Council Members Gene Goss, and Kristine Lowe.
Absent: Council Member Edward Garcia (excused)
Also Present: Jose Reynoso, City Manager
Miguel Hernandez, Assistant City Manager
Aleks Giragosian, City Attorney
Laura Aguilar, Deputy City Manager/City Clerk
Arnulfo Yanez, Public Works Director
Gustavo Barrientos, Police Chief
James Carlson, Management Analyst
Katelyn Huang, Assistant Planner
Joshua Wolf, Senior Planner
Brent Barlett, Fire Chief
Steven McGee, Water Superintendent
OPENING REMARKS
Mayor Kriebs opened the meeting with a tribute in memory of Lisa Spigai, a cherished member of the Sierra Madre community who passed away on October 11, 2024. Ms. Spigai was a devoted educator, starting as a volunteer and later becoming a full-time teacher in 2000, primarily teaching K-1 students.
Known for her theatrical background and engaging storytelling, she brought joy to students as "Lily the Literary Lunatic" during school events and was a prominent host of the city's annual Halloween costume Lisa also contributed significantly to the community, including serving as the voice of the Mount Wilson Trail Race, participating in the city's 2007 All-American City presentation, and supporting the development of the dog park at Sierra Vista Park.
Mayor Kriebs emphasized her kindness, warmth, and the lasting impact she had on students and families, noting that donations in Lisa's memory could be made to the Sierra Madre Community Foundation to support children's programs such as Halloween events.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INSPIRATION
Councilmember Goss led the Pledge of Allegiance and shared several inspirational stories:
• Electric Vehicles During Emergencies: Highlighted how residents in North Carolina used electric trucks, like the Ford F-150 Lightning, to power homes and businesses during Hurricane Helene, showcasing the utility of electric vehicles as mobile power sources. • Global Conservation Efforts: Reported progress in global conservation, with protected areas now covering 15% of Earth's land and 7% of the oceans, moving towards the goal of conserving 23 million square miles of land and sea.
• Improvement in Millennials' Finances: Noted a significant increase in the net worth of millennials, with median household wealth rising dramatically between 2019 and 2022, putting them ahead of previous generations at similar ages.
APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Vote of the City Council to proceed with City business.
Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst made a motion to approve the agenda as presented.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lowe
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council:
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, and Council Members Goss and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Garcia.
Abstain: None.
The motion to move to approve the agenda as presented was approved by a 4-0-1 voice vote. 3 APPROVAL FOR READING RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
Vote of the Council to read all Ordinances and Resolutions by title only and waive the reading in full.
A motion to approve the reading of resolutions and ordinances was made by Council Member Goss.
The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council:
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, and Council Members Goss and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Garcia.
Abstain: None.
The motion to approve the reading of all Ordinances and Resolutions by title only, and waive the reading in full, was passed by a 4-0-1 voice vote.
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES
Approval of the October 8, 2024 City Council meeting minutes.
Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst made a request to change "the meeting was adjourned at 8:41 p.m. to a regular meeting to be held on June 11, 2024" to "October 22n", 2024." Council Member Goss made a motion to approve the minutes as amended.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lowe.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council:
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, and Council Members Goss and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Edward Garcia.
Abstain: None.
The motion to move to approve the agenda as amended was approved by a unanimous voice vote.
REPORT OUT FROM CLOSED SESSION
No Closed Sessions since Council last adjourned their meeting.
MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL REPORTS
Reporting of Council Members' activities related to City business.
Council Member Lowe: provided updates on recent events and activities:
• Fire Prevention Festival: Well-attended event featuring public safety organizations, including Fish and Wildlife, CERT, L.A. County Fire, and Sierra Madre Police. Lowe encouraged residents to join CERT to strengthen the group.
• Cal Cities Conference: Attended sessions on key topics, including fire insurance coverage, grant writing and management, and fentanyl awareness, with plans to agendize related items for future discussions.
Council Member Goss: provided the following updates:
• Transportation Subcommittee: The subcommittee has selected a transportation provider, with final route details to be determined before the topic comes to Council on November 12. • San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) Meeting: Attended the meeting in Monrovia, with a notable item to be discussed in an upcoming session. • Cal Cities Conference: Found the sessions useful, particularly a keynote by an economist offering optimistic economic projections for next year.
• Fentanyl Presentation: Attended a session on fentanyl, with plans to explore the topic further in a future Council meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst: provided updates on recent activities:
• Clean Power Alliance Meetings: Attended meetings on September 25 and October 10, with no significant updates.
4 • Community Events:
Friends of the Library activities
• October 10: Attended the Public Safety Town Hall.
• October 12: Attended the Fire Prevention Festival.
• October 8 Absence: Explained absence due to visiting a wind energy project in New Mexico, one of the largest Clean Power Alliance contracts. The project will feature 967 wind turbines, generating over
3.5GW of energy-three times the output of Hoover Dam-and power more than 3 million homes.
Council Member Garcia: Absent.
Mayor Kriebs: Mayor Kriebs shared updates and announcements:
• Budget Town Hall: Held on October 10 with good public participation and questions. • League of Cities Conference: Attended a session on fleet electrification, discussing the future of electric vehicles in municipal operations
• Natural Resources Commission: Missed the meeting but noted discussions on artificial turf and heat pump designs.
• Principal for a Day Program: Served as principal for a day, touring classrooms and engaging with students and staff. Highlighted the importance of public education continuity from K-8 schools to high school.
Upcoming Events and Announcements:
• City Treasurer Election: Announced that Sue Spears is running as a write-in candidate for City Treasurer.
• Senior Halloween Social: Thursday, October 26, 3-5 PM at the Hart Park House. Free event, registration required
• Halloween Movie Night: Friday, October 27, at dusk in Memorial Park, featuring Hocus Pocus. • Halloween Events (October 31):
Trick-or-treating in downtown and Memorial Park from 3-5 PM • Costume parade starts at 5 PM, followed by a dance performance and a costume contest (5:45-7 PM).
• Senior Excursion to Olvera Street: November 1 at 9:30 AM; cost $26 (lunch not included). • Election Day: November 5; new polling location at the Church of Christ (Lima & Laurel). • Sierra Madre Car Show: November 9, 8 AM-12 PM at Kirsten Court, with a Mayor's Award. • Free Irrigation Upgrades: San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District offers free irrigation equipment and programming valued up to $1,000.
• Red Ribbon Week: Encouraged residents to take the pledge to promote a drug-free lifestyle for youth and families.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION CODE OF CONDUCT
Your participation is welcomed and invited at all City Council meetings. The Council requests that participants refrain from making personal, slanderous, profane, or disruptive remarks. A person who continues to disrupt the orderly conduct of the meeting after being warned by the Mayor or designee to cease the disruption may be precluded from further participation in the meeting. No signs, posters, or other large objects shall be brought into the Council Chambers or other meeting places if doing so would disrupt, disturb, or otherwise impede the orderly course of the meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
The Council will listen to the public on any item on the agenda. In addition, the Council will devote time for public comment on items not on the agenda. Addressing the City Council from the audience is not permitted; all comments addressing the Council must be made from the podium. Only public comments made from the podium will be recognized by the City Council and entered into public record.
Providing Public Comment for Items on the Meeting Agenda Persons wishing to speak on any item on the agenda will be called during the designated comment period. Persons wishing to speak on closed session items have a choice of doing so either immediately prior to the closed session or at the time for comments on items at the open session.
Provide Public Comment for Topics not on the Meeting Agenda Time shall be devoted to provide public comments for items not on the agenda. Under the Brown Act, Council is prohibited from taking action on items not on the agenda, but the matter may be referred to staff or to a subsequent meeting
Providing Public Comment
1. Any person wishing to provide public comment is asked to complete a comment card. Each speaker will be limited to up to three continuous minutes, which may not be delegated or deferred
5 2. Comments addressed to the Council shall occur from the podium during the appropriate time on the agenda and should not be construed as an opportunity for dialogue
PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Kriebs opened the meeting for public comment on non-agenda items.
Mary Lou Caldwell: shared her positive experience with the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District's irrigation upgrade program. After visiting the fire department's booth at a park event, she scheduled an evaluation of her sprinkler system. Waterworks, the district's subcontractor, replaced her sprinkler heads with weather-based controllers at no cost. Caldwell praised their thorough service and encouraged others to participate, noting the upgrades are efficient and come with no pressure to commit.
Lisa Kroese, Pasadena: parent of PUSD students and president of the Don Benito PTA, provided updates on local school activities. She highlighted ongoing membership and fund drives, encouraging community members to join multiple PTAs to become "super members." Kroese also announced Don Benito's fall carnival on November 9th, from 12-4 PM, with ticket prices set at $10 for adults and $15 for children (free for ages 0-4). The carnival is an all- inclusive event supported by corporate sponsors.
Catherine Addé, Skyland Drive: read a tribute from Jeff Shapiro, a lifelong friend of the late Lisa Spigai, sharing memories of their friendship and Ms. Spigai's contributions to Sierra Madre. Ms.
Spigai, a former K-1 teacher at Sierra Madre Elementary, was remembered as a vibrant presence in the community, known for her role as the Mount Wilson Trail Race announcer and her performance during the city's 2007 All-America City competition. Shapiro expressed his deep sadness at her passing and thanked the city for honoring Lisa Spigai, including displaying her name on the Sierra Madre Playhouse marquee.
Clerk Clerk Aguilar advised that the City Clerk's office received no emails for non-agenda topics.
Seeing no one else come forward, Mayor Kriebs closed public comment.
PRESENTATIONS
1. ASSEMBLY MEMBER CHRIS HOLDEN (41St ASSEMBLY DISTRICT) TO PRESENT
THE STATE OF THE DISTRICT
Assembly member Chris Holden provided a farewell presentation, reflecting on his 12 years of service in the California Assembly. He highlighted key accomplishments, including securing $10 million in funding for the revitalization of the Sierra Madre Public Library, advancing transportation solutions such as the Gold Line extension, and supporting initiatives for clean energy and wildfire mitigation. He also discussed statewide investments in developmental disability services and earthquake preparedness.
As a gesture of appreciation, Assembly member Holden presented the City with a resolution recognizing Sierra Madre's significance. In return, the City Council read a proclamation honoring his service and dedication to the community
2. ANNUAL PRESENTATION FROM PASADENA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, DR.
BLANCO
The annual PUSD presentation, led by Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Blanco, included updates from key district leaders: Dr. Helen Chan Hill (Chief Academic Officer), Board Member Tina Fredericks (District 6), and principals from Sierra Madre Elementary and Middle Schools. Key highlights included:
Sierra Madre Schools Achievements:
• Sierra Madre Elementary and Middle Schools both earned California Distinguished School Awards.
• Elementary students published a book on the history of Sierra Madre and continue engaging in gardening and arts programs.
• Middle School programs, including Mandarin dual language immersion and robotics, continue to grow, with the school receiving Title funding.
New Programs and Facilities:
Sierra Madre Elementary introduced Transitional Kindergarten and upgraded its HVAC. : Middle School expanded elective offerings, including theater, music, and peer mediation.
Community Engagement and Future Initiatives:
• Efforts to enhance connections between elementary, middle, and high schools include music performances, athletic camps, and shadow days for eighth graders. • Superintendent Blanco discussed the district's strategic initiatives, including improving family engagement, aligning budgets, and generating new revenue through parcel taxes and bond measures.
6 3. PRESENTATION ON CALIFORNIA STATE BILL 721, REQUIRING MANDATORY SAFETY
INSPECTIONS OF DECKS, BALCONIES, AND OTHER EXTERNAL ELEMENTS IN MULTI-
FAMILY BUILDINGS
Senior Planner Joshua Wolf provided an overview of Senate Bill 721, which mandates inspections of exterior elevated elements (such as balconies and decks) in multifamily buildings with three or more units. Key points from the presentation included:
• Purpose: The bill aims to prevent structural failures, referencing the 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse.
• Requirements: Inspections must be completed by certified professionals by January 1, 2026 (extended from 2025), with reports, building permits, and repairs required within set timelines. . Scope: Applies only to multifamily buildings, not single-family homes or duplexes. Inspections and repairs must be repeated every six years.
• Process: The City issued courtesy notices with October utility bills to raise awareness, although the City is not responsible for enforcement.
• Enforcement: The City's role begins if an inspector's report identifies safety or habitability issues requiring follow-up
Planner Wolf emphasized that the City is among the few proactively notifying residents about this requirement and will continue to provide updated notices throughout the year.
4. PRESENTATION OF ACCELA CITIZEN ACCESS ON-LINE PERMITTING SYSTEM Assistant Planner Huang introduced the new Acela online system to streamline licensing and permitting processes in compliance with AB 2234. The first module to launch is for business license renewals, with renewal notices sent by late October. The system allows businesses to register, renew, and pay online, with in-person support available at City Hall.
The full platform will eventually integrate building, planning, and public works modules, creating a 24/7 virtual counter. Business license renewal fees have been reduced to $86 under the new fiscal schedule. The project was supported by a $40,000 grant, though the state mandate provided no direct funding.
5. SUMMARY PRESENTATION OF BUDGET COMMUNITY TOWN HALL MEETINGS HELD ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2024 AND OCTOBER 10, 2024
At the September 18 and October 10, 2024, budget town hall meetings, City Manager Jose Reynoso and City Attorney Giragosian outlined Sierra Madre's financial challenges and the proposed special parcel tax to support public safety. Reynoso explained the transition of the fire department from volunteer-based to a full-time career service in 2019, which increased personnel costs. Current public safety budgets—$3.7M for fire and $4.8M for police-account for nearly half of the city's general fund, with future deficits projected without new revenue sources.
The special parcel tax, effective July 1, 2025, through 2032, will exclusively fund public safety personnel costs, adjusted annually for inflation, and will require voter approval. All funds will stay within Sierra Madre, with oversight through separate accounts, audits, and public reports.
Giragosian clarified that the tax revenue will supplement, not replace, current funding levels, and any surplus will accumulate to cover future deficits.
Outreach efforts included flyer distribution at community events, door-to-door notifications, and digital messaging. Attendance grew from 13 in-person attendees at the first town hall to 21 at the second, with both meetings also viewed online. Reynoso emphasized that, while the tax is essential for sustaining public safety, further long-term financial planning will still be required.
Renee Cossutta: expressed concerns about the financial impact of the proposed parcel tax on residents, particularly renters and those on fixed incomes, noting that rents are already high.
While she values the city's safety and appreciates the firefighters and police, she urged the city to explore alternative solutions for funding fair wages for public safety personnel. Ms. Cossutta emphasized the need to avoid further burdening residents with increased housing costs.
ACTION ITEMS
Regardless of staff recommendation on any agenda item, the City Council will consider such matters, including action to approve, conditionally approve, reject, or continue such item.
CONSENT
City Clerk Aguilar gave the reports.
a) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 24-65 APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 24-65 approving payment of City warrants in the aggregate amount of $266,616.36; Sierra Madre Library warrants in the aggregate amount of $12,851.69; and payroll transfer in the aggregate amount of $530,510. 15; for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. 7 b) CONSIDERATION OF SIERRA VISTA PARK PLAYGROUND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
CHANGE ORDERS
It is recommended the City Council authorize change orders to the Sierra Vista Playground Project in the amount of $29,579.
C) RECOMMENDATION TO REJECT ALL BIDS FOR THE 2024-25 WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. WT2501
It is recommended that the City Council reject all bids received on September 19, 2024, for the 2024-2025 Water Main Replacement Project.
d) POLICE DEPARTMENT REALLOCATION OF ARPA FUNDS FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROJECTS
It is recommended that the City Council approve this reallocation to ensure the successful completion of these critical projects.
e) UPGRADE TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT RADIO COMMUNICATION SYSTEM It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Commline, Inc. to upgrade the Police Department's radio communication system. This system is the foundation for all radio communications between the Police Department, field personnel, and neighboring agencies. The total cost of the proposed upgrade should not exceed $270,000
f) CONSIDERATION OF USE OF $240,764.33 ARPA FUNDS FOR PURCHASE OF FOUR
VEHICLES FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
It is recommended that the City Council approve the allocation of $239,863.83 ARPA grant funds for the purchase of vehicles for the Public Works Department:
9) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 24-64 APPROVING SECOND AMENDMENT TO CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 22-03 (CUP 22-03) FOR PRIVATE RENTAL EVENTS AND
FILMING AT THE VILLA DEL SOL D'ORO LOCATED WITHIN THE ALVERNO HEIGHTS ACADEMY CAMPUS ADDRESSED AT 200 NORTH MICHILLINDA AVENUE It is recommended that the City Council approve City Council Resolution 24-64 to amend conditions of approval of the Conditional Use Permit 22-03, permitting the use of the Villa Del Sol d'Oro (Villa) for-profit special events.
CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 24-63 AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE
CLASSIFICATION PLAN AND SALARY MATRIX AND APPROVAL OF THE
REORGANIZATION OF VARIOUS CITY DEPARTMENTS
It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution 24-63, authorizing the creation of three new positions: Senior Management Analyst, Public Works/Utilities Manager, and Administrative Fire Captain.
1) CONSIDERATION OF AWARD OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO ALL AMERICAN ASPHALT, FOR THE 24/25 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
It is recommended that the City Council award a construction contract to All American Asphalt for the 24/25 Street Improvement Project on Sierra Keys Drive and Key Vista Drive, and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement with All American Asphalt.
Mayor Kriebs brought the matter to the City Council for questions.
During the discussion, Council Members raised questions about several projects:
• Playground Project (Item B): Challenges arose from design changes when the council chose to preserve a tree, impacting slope and grading. Staff emphasized that the contractor, Ari Schultz, performed well despite these setbacks.
• Upper Woodland Project (Item C): Staff assured residents the project remains a priority. Bid procedures will be corrected, and work is expected to begin after the New Year. • Vehicle Purchases (Item F): Electric vehicles were considered, but not selected due to operational limitations. The City remains committed to future EV adoption. • Staffing Changes (Item H): No new personnel will be added, and restructuring will generate minor savings by reallocating current staff.
Street Improvement Project (Item I): Staff clarified that All American Asphalt was the lowest bidder after last-minute recalculations, committing to better bid reporting moving forward. 8 Mayor Kriebs opened Public Comment.
Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Kriebs brought the matter back to the City Council for further discussion and/or a motion.
Council Member Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst made a motion to approve Consent items A-l as presented.
Council Member Lowe seconded the motion.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, Council Members Goss, and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Garcia.
Abstain: None.
The motion to approve Consent Items A-l was approved by a 4-0-1 voice vote.
DISCUSSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF FOURTH AMENDMENT TO THE AMENDED AND RESTATED SOLID
WASTE REMOVAL AGREEMENT WITH ATHENS SERVICES
It is recommended that the City Council authorize an amendment to the City's Solid Waste Agreement with Athens Services and direct the Mayor, City Clerk, and City Attorney to execute the agreement.
Management Analyst Carlson recommended the City Council approve the Fourth Amendment to the solid waste agreement with Athens Services. The amendment builds on the February 2023 agreement and Proposition 218 vote, which allowed rate increases to comply with SB 1383 (organic recycling requirements). Key adjustments include:
• Bulky Item Pickup: Two free pickups per year for multifamily units to address illegal dumping.
• Canyon Area Collection: Mixed collection for certain areas, with sorting done at Athens' recovery facility.
• Commercial Accounts: Free blue recycling bins provided • Annual Rate Adjustment: Now tied to CPI for trash services, excluding landfill tipping fees
• Low-Income Discount: 15% discount aligned with the city's water program • Bin Discounts: Monthly rates reduced from $58.55 to $20. • Organic Barrel Cost Reduction: Commercial organic bin fees reduced from $211.65 to $81.72
• Route Reviews: Inspection frequency reduced from quarterly to annually, in line with SB 1383 requirements.
The effective date in the contract was corrected to November 1, 2024. Carlson noted improved communication and service between Athens and residents.
Mayor Kriebs brought the matter to the City Council for questions.
Mayor Kriebs opened public comment.
Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Kriebs brought the matter back to the City Council for further discussion and/or a motion.
Council Member Goss made a motion to authorize an amendment to the City's Solid Waste Agreement with Athens Services and direct the Mayor, City Clerk, and City Attorney to execute the agreement.
Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst seconded the motion.
9 Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, Council Members Goss, and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: Council Member Garcia.
Abstain: None.
The motion to approve the amendment was approved by a 4-0-1 voice vote.
2. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION 24-66, ADOPTING THE SIERRA
MADRE FIRE DEPARTMENT MASTER PLAN
It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 24-66, adopting the Sierra Madre Fire Department Master Plan.
Chief Bartlett and consultant Clay Steward (AP Triton) presented the Master Plan, highlighting key challenges and recommendations
Staffing: Retention and leadership development are priorities. Adding middle management roles is essential for resiliency and succession planning.
Facility Needs: Station 41 is outdated and needs renovation or replacement to meet safety standards.
Financial Sustainability: Program-based budgeting and fair allocation of public safety funds are recommended
Regional Collaboration: Strong mutual aid partnerships are vital for emergency response.
Community Engagement: Public feedback supports fire department operations and the importance of education initiatives.
Next steps include updating the department's strategic plan to align with these recommendations and planning for facility improvements.
At the conclusion of Fire Chief Bartlett and Clay Steward's presentation, the Council decided to continue Discussion Item 2 and 3 to a Special Meeting scheduled for October 29 at 6:00 p.m.
3. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION 24-67, ADOPTING THE SIERRA
MADRE POLICE DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATIONAL ASSESSMENT PLAN
It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 24-67, adopting the Sierra Madre Police Department Organizational Assessment Plan.
This item was bumped to a Special Meeting scheduled for October 29, 2024 at 6:00 pm
FUTURE ACTION ITEMS
1. Fentanyl Education Initiative (Lowe) - a discussion on public education related to fentany! awareness, including Narcan training, potentially integrated with sidewalk CPR events.
2. Joint Meeting with Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) - Explore scheduling regular joint meetings between the City Council and PUSD Board to maintain consistent communication and collaboration.
3. PUSD High School Presentation - Plan to include a high school-focused presentation by PUSD during early 2025, aligning with the school's open enrollment period.
4. Electric Vehicle (EV) Strategic Planning (Parkhurst) - Agendize a discussion on creating an EV plan, including infrastructure, costs, and vehicle purchasing strategies.
PUBLIC HEARING
The appellant and/or applicant will each be provided a total of ten (10) minutes to address their item. A portion of their allotted time may be reserved for rebuttal or a summary conclusion at the close of public comment. All other speakers will be limited to a total of three continuous minutes, which cannot be delegated. These rules will be enforced but may be changed by appropriate City Council action.
AVAILABILITY OF AGENDA MATERIALS
Materials related to items on this agenda are available for public inspection on the City's website at www.SierraMadreCA.gov
LIVE BROADCASTS
Regular City Council meetings are broadcast live on Cable Channel 3 and rebroadcast on Wednesday and Saturday at 5:30 p.m Additionally, meetings are streamed live on the City of Sierra Madre YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@3SMTV/streams. 10 MEETING ASSISTANCE
If you require special assistance to participate in this meeting, please call the City Clerk's office at (626) 355-7135 at least 48 hours before the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The City Council will adjourn this meeting to November 12, 2024, in memory and gratitude of Lisa Spigai, whose service and dedication to the children and community of Sierra Madre will never be forgotten.
Mayor Kriebs asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Council Member Lowe made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Council Member Goss seconded the motion.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 p.m. to a Special meeting to be held on October 29, 2024.
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Kelly Kriebs, Mayo
Minutes taken and prepared by:
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Eric Lozick, Administrative Analyst
Minutes edited by:
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Laura Aguilar, City Clerk