MINUTES Kelly Kriebs, Mayor
Robert Parkfurst, 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, December 10, 2024
5:30 pm
City of Sierra Madre
City Council Chambers
32 W. Sierra Madre Boulevar
ierra Madre, California 9102 "PRA 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
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 5:33 p.m. City Clerk Aguilar called the roll.
Present: Mayor Kelly Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Robert Parkhurst, and Council Members Edward Garcia, Gene Goss, and Kristine Lowe.
Absent: None.
Also Present: Jose Reynoso, City Manager
Miguel Hernandez, Assistant City Manager
Aleks Giragosian, City Attorney
Laura Aguilar, Deputy City Manager/City Clerk
James Carlson, Management Analyst
David Gacad, Fire Department Captain
2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INSPIRATION
are are ta Paladlived an inspirational message,
emphasizing the season's traditions and transitions. He shared a reading of excerpts from Miller Williams' poem Of History and Hope, reflecting on America's past, present, and future. The poem highlighted themes of unity, responsibilty to future generations, and the collective effort required to build a just, compassionate,
APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Vote of the City Council to proceed with City business.
Council Member Lowe made a motion to amend the agenda, proposing that public comments on items not listed on the agenda be heard immediately after the approval of the minutes.
Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst seconded the motion.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council:
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, and Council Members Garcia, Goss, and Lowe Noes:
Absent:
Abstain:
The motion to move to approve the agenda as presented was approved by a unanimous voice vote.
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 Lowe.
Council Member Garcia seconded the motion.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council:
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, and Council Members Garcia, Goss, and Lowe Noes:
Absent:
Abstain:
The motion to approve the reading of all ordinances and resolutions by title only, and waive the reading in full, was passed by a unanimous voice vote.
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES
Approval of the November 12, 2024 City Council meeting minutes.
Council Member Goss made a motion to approve minutes as presented Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst seconded the motion.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council:
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, and Council Members Garcia, Goss, and Lowe Noes:
Absent:
Abstain:
The motion to move to approve the minutes as presented was approved by a unanimous voice vote.
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. 3 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.
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.
Toni Buckner: Acacia Street urged the Council to prioritize her street for the next water pipe replacement project, noting frequent issues with 20 patches.
Chris Cimino: representing the Sierra Madre Chamber of Commerce, shared updates and announcements:
1. The Winter Village event was a success, with positive feedback from businesses and attendees.
2. An open house at the Chamber office (49 South Baldwin) will be held on Thursday, the 12th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, celebrating Jim Plumbing's 75th year in business.
3. Nominations are open for Citizen of the Year and Business of the Year, with details available on the Chamber website.
4. The Wistaria Festival will be held on Saturday, April 12th, instead of the usual March Sunday.
Leila Regan: announced the 2025 One Book, One City selection: What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama. She encouraged community members to join in reading the book during February 2025, highlighting the exciting programs planned. Additionally, she announced an open writing contest, inviting submissions of poems or creative nonfiction (up to 1,000 words) on how libraries have impacted lives. Entries are due by January 6th.
Leila also honored Rod Spears, a former library trustee, recalling his significant contributions and expressing heartfelt condolences on his recent passing.
Mayor Pro Tem Kwan, City of Arcadia: congratulated Mayor Kriebs on her role, praising her contributions to the community and expressing confidence in her leadership. She also commended Mayor Pro Tem Robert for his excellent work. Kawan shared his appreciation for Sierra Madre's festive decorations, organization, and charm, noting his love for walking in the city. She expressed enthusiasm for fostering collaboration between the neighboring cities.
Savannah Moore, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger (5th District): congratulated Mayor Kriebs and Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst for their service over the past year. She expressed gratitude on behalf of the supervisor, who was unable to attend due to board commitments, and presented certificates to honor their contributions.
Maile Plan, Congresswoman Judy Chu: congratulated Mayor Kriebs and Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst for their leadership and dedication to public service. She acknowledged the challenges of their roles and expressed gratitude for their efforts to improve Sierra Madre. On behalf of Congresswoman Chu, she presented congressional recognitions honoring their service.
Mayor Kriebs: recognized Nico Tierney, a Sierra Madre resident and student-athlete, for his outstanding achievement in helping the UCLA Bruins men's water polo team win the 2024 national championship. Nico's two key goals contributed to the team's decisive 11-8 victory over USC, culminating in an exceptional season record of 26-2. The commendation highlighted his dedication, athleticism, and teamwork, celebrating his role in UCLA's 13th NCAA water polo title and 124th overall NCAA championship. Mayor Kriebs praised Nico as an inspiration to young athletes and a source of pride for Sierra Madre.
Seeing no one else come forward, Mayor Kriebs closed public comment. 4 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 Garcia: Council Member Garcia attended Small Business Saturday and the Winter Wonderland event on November 30th, thanking staff, the Major Events Committee, and the Chamber of Commerce for organizing the successful event. She visited two new businesses and appreciated the community turnout. She also attended the Sierra Madre Senior Community Commission meeting on December 5th, noting that the next meeting is rescheduled to January 9th, instead of January 2nd.
Council Member Lowe: Council Member Lowe highlighted the success of the Winter Festival, praising the lively shops, great vendor stands, and vibrant community atmosphere. She enjoyed visiting a local restaurant and noted that the snow lingered for several days afterward. She also attended Arcadia's council meeting, where Paul Cheng was reelected, David Fu was inducted, and outgoing Mayor April Verlato was honored for her service. Lowe extended congratulations to Arcadia's new Mayor Pro Tem, Sharon Kwan, the first Asian-American woman to hold the position.
Council Member Goss: Council Member Goss attended the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) meeting on November 21st, where outgoing State Senator Anthony Portantino was honored for his extensive service and significant impact on the San Gabriel Valley. Goss expressed admiration for Senator Portantino's contributions. Additionally, he attended the Library Board meeting on November 25th, noting that City Librarian Leila Regan had already provided an update on the meeting's discussions.
Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst: Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst provided updates on recent activities:
1. Attended the Transportation Committee meeting on November 13th, where potential citywide bus routes were reviewed. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to finalize plans, with service expected to resume early in the new year.
2. Participated in the Community Services meeting on November 18th, where the addition of a youth commissioner was discussed for future consideration. Fee waivers were approved for the Rose Float Decoration, Winterfest, and Candlelight Walk events. An Eagle Scout project by Katrina Carr to repair the bandshell in Memorial Park was also presented.
3. Attended Clean Power Alliance meetings on November 21st and December 5th, with no significant updates to report.
4. Took part in Winterfest, praising the event as fantastic.
5. Attended the Planning Commission meeting, which featured two key updates:
• A new online permitting and licensing system, which he successfully tested for his business license.
• The first of three legislative updates on housing laws, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about upcoming changes.
Parkhurst's report reflects progress in city transportation, community initiatives, and administrative efficiency.
Mayor Kriebs: Mayor Kriebs shared updates on recent activities and announcements:
1. Winterfest: Praised the event and mentioned seeing Santa depart from the fire station with the Royal Court.
2. Natural Resources Commission Meeting: Discussed plans for the upcoming Earth Day celebration and regulations on artificial turf, commending the commission's focus on sustainability.
3. Street Rehabilitation Program: Highlighted the completion of projects on Sierra Keys Drive and Key Vista Drive, which included new asphalt, curbs, gutters, and sidewalk repairs. These improvements raised the pavement condition index (PCI) to 90, far exceeding the state's "excellent" standard of 74.
4. Library and Community Events:
• Thursday: "This Is How We Roll," a walking book discussion, at 9 a.m. starting at the library. • Saturday: Rhythm and Roots interactive percussion performance by Louie Cruz Beltran at 10 a.m. in Memorial Park and Santa's visit to the fire station at 6:30 p.m. • Toy Drive: Collecting Toys for Tots at City Hall and the police and fire departments through December 14th.
5 • December 20th: Gingerbread Jamboree from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in Memorial Park, followed by a showing of The Grinch at 5:30 p.m.
Mayor Kriebs concluded with an introduction to the Rose Float Royal Court, who would present on the upcoming float.
PRESENTATIONS
1. PRESENTATION OF SIERRA MADRE ROSE FLOAT ASSOCIATION ROYAL COURT:
Princess Julietta Hutt, Polytechnic School
Princess Kendra Buchok, La Cañada High School
Princess Milania Thomas, Pasadena High School
The Sierra Madre Rose Float Association's Royal Court, comprising Princesses Milania Thomas, Kendra Bucholtz, and Juliette Hutt, introduced themselves and shared their backgrounds and community involvement. They expressed enthusiasm for representing Sierra Madre in the upcoming Rose Parade and discussed their excitement about participating in the float-building process. The Royal Court also acknowledged the support of the community and the Association in providing this opportunity. Additionally, they thanked Attitude Dress Shop for providing their attire. The presentation concluded with an invitation for questions from the council and audience.
2. PRESENTATION OF SERVICE, MAYOR KRIEBS
Presented by: Assembly member John Harabedian, representing California's 41st District:
Harabedian, representing California's 41st District, attended the meeting to congratulate Mayor Kriebs on her service and presented her with a certificate from the State Assembly.
He expressed appreciation for her dedication and the importance of her role as an ambassador for the city. Harabedian also extended congratulations to the incoming mayor.
3. PRESENTATION OF NEW DIRECTOR OF FINANCE, ANTHONY RAINEY Presented by Jose Reynoso, City Manager: City Manager Reynoso introduced Anthony Rainey as Sierra Madre's new Finance Director. With over 17 years of public sector experience in cities like Santa Paula, Maywood, Bell Gardens, and Rialto, Mr. Rainey emphasized his commitment to enhancing fiscal transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability. He highlighted his collaborative approach and dedication to aligning financial strategies with community priorities. Mr.
Rainey expressed enthusiasm for contributing to Sierra Madre's financial future.
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
The reports were presented by City Clerk Aguilar.
a) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 24-70 APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 24-70 approving payment of City warrants in the aggregate amount of $817,091.51; Sierra Madre Library warrants in the aggregate amount of $3,320.70; and payroll transfer in the aggregate amount of $525,173.05; for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
b) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 24-71 APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 24-71 approving payment of City warrants in the aggregate amount of $165,530.77; Sierra Madre Library warrants in the aggregate amount of $4,425.32; and payroll transfer in the aggregate amount of $604,268.25; for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 1474 REGULATING THE PARKING OF OVERSIZED
COMMERCIAL OR RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND TRAILERS IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS It is recommended that the City Council conduct second reading by title only and approve Ordinance No. 1474 amending Chapter 10.04 (Definitions) and Chapter 10.24 (Stopping, Standing and Parking) of Title 10 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the Sierra Madre Municipal Code to regulate the parking of oversized commercial or recreational vehicles and trailers in residential districts
d) SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 1475 ADDING CHAPTER 10.28 (PARKING PENALTIES) TO TITLE 10 (VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC) OF THE SIERRA MADRE MUNICIPAL CODE
It is recommended that the City Council conduct its second reading, by title only, and adopt Traffic) of the Sierra Madre Municipal Code.
6 e) SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 1476 AMENDING CHAPTER 3.08 (PURCHASING PROCEDURES) OF TITLE 3 (REVENUE AND FINANCE) OF THE SIERRA MADRE MUNICIPAL CODE
It is recommended that the City Council conduct second reading by title only and approve Ordinance No. 1476 amending Chapter 3.08 (Purchasing Procedures) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Sierra Madre Municipal Code.
f) NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE SIERRA VISTA PARK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT It is recommended that the City Council approve the Notice of Completion for the Sierra Vista Playground Improvement Project and direct staff to file the Notice with the Los Angeles County Clerk. g) APPROVAL OF SAN GABRIEL VALLEY MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT GRANT AWARD FOR
WATER CONSERVATION IN SIERRA VISTA PARK
It IS recommended that the City Council accept a $50,000 grant award from the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (SGVMWD); and authorize the Mayor to execute the grant agreement. h) RESOLUTION 24-73 TO DECLARE THE 2011 INTERNATIONAL WATER TENDER 41 AS
SURPLUS PROPERTY
It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution 24-73 declaring the 2011 International Water Tender 41 as surplus property and authorize its disposal through the appropriate surplus process.
i) CONSIDERATION OF NOTICE OF INTENTION TO RETURN OES ENGINE 1615 TO THE STATE
OF CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the return of OES Engine 1615 to the State of California Office of Emergency Services.
CONSIDERATION OF USE OF $42,789 IN ARPA FUNDS FOR A NEW CITY WEBSITE AND
CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND AUTHORIZATION TO SIGN A FIVE-YEAR HOSTING
AND SUPPORT TERM WITH GHD DIGITAL
It is recommended that the City Council approve the use of $42,789 in ARPA funds for a redesign of the current city website as well as five years of website support and hosting fees.
RECOMMENDATION TO AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE 2024-25 WATER
MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT TO BIG BEN INC, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $946,600.00
It is recommended the City Council award a construction contract to Big Ben Inc., in an amount not to exceed $946,600.00 for the 2024-25 Water Main Replacement.
I) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 24-74 APPROVING PARTICIPATION IN THE SAFE CLEAN
WATER PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE TRANSFER
AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution 24-74 authorizing the City Manager to execute the Safe, Clean, Water Program's Municipal Program Transfer Agreement. m) RESOLUTION 24-75 AUTHORIZING A TRANFER OF $12,564 FROM THE GENERAL FUND TO THE MEASURE W FUND TO RECLASSIFY FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021 EXPEDITURES It is recommended that the City Council authorizing the a Budget Amendment/Transfer of $12,564 from the General Fund to Measure W Fund.
n) ACCEPTANCE OF A $20,000 ANONYMOUS DONATION TO THE SIERRA MADRE POLICE AND
FIRE DEPARTMENT
It is recommended that the City Council accept the $20,000 anonymous donation.
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 Garcia made a motion to approve Consent Items A-N, 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 Garcia, Goss, and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Abstain: None.
7 The motion to approve Consent Items A-N was approved by unanimous voice vote.
DISCUSSION
1. PRESENTATIONS IN RECOGNITION OF OUTGOING MAYOR AND MAYOR PRO TEMPORE Recognition of outgoing Mayor Kelly Kriebs and outgoing Mayor Pro Tem Robert Parkhurst No Council action is required.
2. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION No. 24-72, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL RECITING THE FACTS OF THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION HELD NOVEMBER 5, 2024,
DECLARING THE RESULTS AND SUCH MATTERS AS PROVIDED BY LAW It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution 24-72 reciting the facts of the General Municipal Election held on November 5, 2024, declaring the results and such matters as provided This report was presented by City Clerk Aguilar.
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 Lowe made a motion to adopt Resolution 24-72.
Council Member Goss seconded the motion.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, Council Members Garcia, Goss, and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Abstain: None.
The motion to adopt Resolution 24-72 was approved by a unanimous voice vote.
3. OATH OF OFFICE
The City Clerk will swear-in the newly elected City Council Members and City Treasurer.
No Council action is required
4. CITY COUNCIL SELECTION OF MAYOR AND MAYOR PRO TEMPORE It is recommended that the City Council select a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore (Mayor Pro Tem) to serve for the period beginning December 11, 2024 until December 9, 2025.
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 Garcia made a motion to appoint Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst to serve as Mayor and Council Member Lowe to serve as Mayor Pro Tem.
Council Member Lowe seconded the motion.
Mayor Kriebs called for a vote of the Council
Ayes: Mayor Kriebs, Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst, Council Members Garcia, Goss, and Lowe Noes: None.
Absent: None.
Abstain: None.
The motion to appoint Mayor Pro Tem Parkhurst as Mayor and Council Member Lowe as Mayor Pro Tem was approved by a unanimous voice vote.
8 FUTURE ACTION ITEMS
• Public Works Report: Schedule a report in Q1 2025 on the rotation and prioritization for upcoming water main replacement projects.
• Political Signage Ordinance: Review the ordinance concerning political signage placement on parkways in front of residential properties.
• Intersection Safety Review: Prioritize a safety review of the Grandview and Canon intersection in Q1 2025, following a recent three-car accident.
• Red Flag Day Ordinance: Evaluate and update the city's red flag day ordinance to include fire-related criteria.
• Youth Commissioners: Request a staff report on the current policy and direction regarding youth commissioners.
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..
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 January 14, 2025. he meeting was adjourned in memory of Rod Spears, a dedicated community member and civ ngineer, honoring his many contributions to Sierra Madre and his legacy of service Mayor Kriebs made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Council Member Goss seconded the motion.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:52 p.m. to a Regular meeting to be held on January 14, 2025.
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'Robert Parkhurst, Mayor
Eric Lozick, Administrative Analyst
Minutes edited by
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_aura Aguilar, City Clerk