Agenda packet — Sierra Madre City Council, August 26, 2025 (part 1 of 2)

CITY COUNCIL

MEETING AGENDA PACKET
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Closed Session 4:30 pm
Open Session 5:30 pm
Sierra Madre City Council Chambers
232 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard
Sierra Madre, California 91024
Mayor Robert Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tempore Kristine Lowe Council Members: Edward Garcia, Gene Goss, and Kelly Kriebs

PUBLIC COMMENT
The Council will listen to the public on any item on the agenda. Under the Brown Act, the City 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. Each speaker will be limited to three continuous minutes, which may not be delegated. These rules will be enforced but may be changed by appropriate City Council action.

PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS ON THE AGENDA:

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.

CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Member Garcia, Council Member Goss, and Council Member Kriebs
PUBLIC COMMENT Regarding Closed Session Items
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION REGARDING:

1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR
(Gov. Code § 54957.6)
City Negotiator: City Manager Michael Bruckner and Assistant City Manager Miguel Hernandez
Employee Organization: Sierra Madre Professional Firefighters’ Association

2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR
(Gov. Code § 54957.6)
City Negotiator: City Manager Michael Bruckner and Assistant City Manager Miguel Hernandez
Employee Organization: Sierra Madre Classified Employees’ Association

3. Conference with Legal Counsel; Existing Litigation
(Gov. Code 54956.9(d)(1))
Name of Case: Protect Sierra Madre v. City of Sierra Madre et al.

Name of Petitioners: Protect Sierra Madre
Case No.: 24STCP01652
AGENDA

SPECIAL MEETING

SIERRA MADRE CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Closed Session 4:30 pm
City Hall Council Chambers
232 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard
Sierra Madre, California 91024
Robert Parkhurst, Mayor
Kristine Lowe, Mayor Pro Tem
Edward Garcia, Council Member
Gene Goss, Council Member
Kelly Kriebs, Council Member
Sue Spears, City Treasurer

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.

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 prior to the meeting.

AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING

SIERRA MADRE CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
5:30 pm
City of Sierra Madre
City Council Chambers
232 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard
Sierra Madre, California 91024
Robert Parkhurst, Mayor
Kristine Lowe, Mayor Pro Tem
Edward Garcia, Council Member
Gene Goss, Council Member
Kelly Kriebs, Council Member
Sue Spears, City Treasurer
The Brown Act provides the public with an opportunity to make public comments at any public meeting; as an alternative, public comment may be made by e-mail to [email protected] by 3:00PM on the day of the meeting. Emails will be acknowledged at the City 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 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 City Council’s ability to conduct City business may be asked to leave the meeting. Any and all demonstrations which disrupt, interrupt, or obstruct the City 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 Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Member Garcia, Council Member Goss, Council Member Kriebs

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INSPIRATION
Council Member Kriebs

APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Vote of the City Council to proceed with City business.

REPORT OUT FROM CLOSED SESSION

City Attorney report from the August 26, 2025 Closed Session.

1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR
(Gov. Code § 54957.6)
City Negotiator: City Manager Michael Bruckner and Assistant City Manager Miguel Hernandez Employee Organization: Sierra Madre Professional Firefighters’ Association

2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR
(Gov. Code § 54957.6)
City Negotiator: City Manager Michael Bruckner and Assistant City Manager Miguel Hernandez Employee Organization: Sierra Madre Classified Employees’ Association

3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL; ECXISTING LITIGATION
(Gov. Code 54956.9(d)(1))
Name of Case: Protect Sierra Madre v. City of Sierra Madre et al.

Name of Petitioners: Protect Sierra Madre
Case No.: 24STCP01652APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES
Approval of July 8, 2025 City Council Special Meeting minutes.

Approval of July 8, 2025 City Council Regular Meeting minutes.

APPROVAL FOR READING RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
Vote of the City Council to read all Ordinances and Resolutions by title only and waive reading in full.

MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL REPORTS
Reporting of Council Members' activities related to City business.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION CODE OF CONDUCT
The City 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 official meeting places if doing so would disrupt, disturb, or otherwise impede the orderly course of the meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENT
The City Council will listen to the public on any item on the agenda. In addition, the City 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 comment 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 comment period at the time the agenda item is brought forward. 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, the City Council is prohibited from taking action on items not on the agenda.

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 City Council shall occur during the appropriate time on the agenda and should not be construed as an opportunity for dialogue.

PRESENTATION

1. PRESENTATION BY THE SAN GABRIEL VALLEY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

2. SIERRA MADRE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTED BEAR ACTIVITY UPDATE

3. LIBRARY SERVICES ANNUAL REPORT

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
a) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 25-46 APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 25-46 ratifying payment of City Warrants in the aggregate amount of $439,443.93, Sierra Madre Library Warrants in the aggregate amount of $3,968.36, and Payroll Transfer in the aggregate amount of $1,096,492.94, for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2026. b) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 25-47 APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 25-47 ratifying payment of City Warrants in the aggregate amount of $923,197.96, Sierra Madre Library Warrants in the aggregate amount of $613,734.50, and Payroll Transfer in the aggregate amount of $552,436.85, for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2026. c) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 25-48 APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 25-48 approving payment of City Warrants in the aggregate amount of $1,591,996.89, Sierra Madre Library Warrants in the aggregate amount of $841,975.37, and Payroll Transfer in the aggregate amount of $561,553.78, for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2026. d) AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE SERVICES TO MARIPOSA LANDSCAPE, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $169,512.00 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026.

It is recommended that the City Council approve a contract for professional landscape services to Mariposa Landscape, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $169,512.00 e) FINAL SUBDIVISION MAP FOR PARCEL MAP No. 83897, A CONDOMINIUM SUBDIVISION AT 182 W. HIGHLAND AVENUE
It is recommended that the City Council approve the final subdivision map for Parcel Map No. 83897 and authorize the City Clerk to certify the map.
f) SECOND FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE No. 1467 AMENDING CHAPTER 9.32 (NOISE) OF TITLE 9 (PUBLIC, PEACE, MORALS, AND WELFARE) AND CHAPTER 8.40 (LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT) OF TITLE 8 (HEALTH AND SAFETY) OF THE SIERRA MADRE MUNICIPAL CODE It is recommended that the City Council conduct their second first reading of Ordinance No. 1467, by title only, and approve first reading.
g) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION No. 25-49 REGARDING THE NEW NATIONAL OPIOIDS

SETTLEMENT
It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution 25-49 authorizing the City Attorney and/or City Manager to accept and participate in the new National Opioids Settlement Agreement with Purdue and the Sackler family.
h) CONSIDERATION OF A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION FOR THE SIERRA MADRE LIBRARY FOUNDATION FOR A $50,000 T-MOBILE HOMETOWN GRANT FOR LIBRARY MEANINGFUL

IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FURNITURE, FIXTURES, AND EQUIMENT (FF&E) It is recommended that the City Council approve and sign the proposed recommendation letter to T-Mobile for the Sierra Madre Library Foundation application for the Hometown Grant.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE No. 1484 AMENDING SECTION 17.60.056 (“DISCRETIONARY DEMOLITION PERMIT”) OF CHAPTER 17.60 (“VARIANCES AND DISCRETIONARY PERMITS”) OF TITLE 17 (“ZONING”) OF THE SIERRA MADRE MUNICIPAL CODE It is recommended that the City Council open a public hearing and conduct its first reading of Ordinance No. 1484, by title only.

DISCUSSION

1. CONSIDERATION OF THREE APPOINTMENTS TO THE SENIOR COMMUNITY

COMMISSION TO FILL VACANT SEATS
It is recommended that the City Council consider a partial-term appointment to fill an unscheduled vacancy ending June 30, 2026; and appoint two commissioners for full-term vacancies concluding June 30, 2029.

2. TRAFFIC SURVEYS AND TRAFFIC STUDIES REPORTS
It is recommended that the City Council approve recommendations in the 2025 Engineering and Traffic Survey Report, with the exception of raising the speed limit on E. Sierra Madre Blvd. and the Traffic Study and On-Street Parking Management Plan on W. Grand View Ave.

3. CONSIDERTION OF ALTERNATIVE CITY COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE It is recommended that the City Council cancel the November 11, 2025, November 25, 2025, and December 23, 2025 City Council meetings, and authorize staff to pay all necessary expenses during that time. It is also recommended that the City Council schedule a Special Meeting during November to conduct City business.

AVAILABILITY OF AGENDA MATERIALS
Materials related to items on this agenda are available for public inspection on the City’s website at 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.

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 prior to the meeting.

ADJOURNMENT
The City Council will adjourn to its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

PUBLIC COMMENT
The Council will listen to the public on any item 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. Each speaker will be limited to three continuous minutes, which may not be delegated. These rules will be enforced but may be changed by appropriate City Council action.

PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS ON THE AGENDA:

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.

CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Parkhurst called the meeting to order at 5:25 p.m. City Clerk Aguilar called the roll.

Present: Mayor Robert Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Kristine Lowe, Council Member Gene Goss, and Council Member Kelly Kriebs

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Also Present: Julia A. Homaechevarria, Deputy City Attorney Miguel Hernandez, Assistant City Manager
Laura Aguilar, City Clerk
Gustavo Barrientos, Chief of Police

APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Vote of the City Council to proceed with City business.

Council Member Kriebs made a motion to approve the agenda as presented.

Council Member Goss seconded the motion.

Mayor Parkhurst called for a vote of the Council:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: None.

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Abstain: None.

The motion to approve the agenda as presented was approved by a unanimous voice vote by all Members present.

MINUTES

SPECIAL MEETING

SIERRA MADRE CITY COUNCIL,
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
5:25 pm
City Hall Council Chambers
232 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard
Sierra Madre, California 91024
Robert Parkhurst, Mayor
Kristine Lowe, Mayor Pro Tem
Edward Garcia, Council Member
Gene Goss, Council Member
Kelly Kriebs, Council Member
Sue Spears, City Treasurer

PUBLIC COMMENT
The Council will listen to the public on any item 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 comment made from the podium will be recognized by the City Council and entered into public record. Comments addressed to the Council shall occur during the appropriate time on the agenda and should not be construed as an opportunity for dialogue.

Each speaker will be limited to three continuous minutes, which may not be delegated or deferred.

PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS ON THE AGENDA
Persons wishing to speak on any item on the agenda will be called during the comment period at the time the agenda item is brought forward.

PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
This meeting is a Special meeting. The City Council will only hear public comment for items on the agenda.

DISCUSSION
Update from Sierra Madre Police Department regarding interactions/incidents involving bears and people, pets, property.

It is recommended that the City Council provide staff with direction.

Police Chief Barrientos provided statistics and data on monthly bear call trends, bear categories, and Sierra Madre Police Department bear response protocols.

After Council discussion, Mayor Parkhurst opened the podium to receive public comment.

Seeing no one come forward, the Mayor closed public comment. The City Council continued their discussion and directed staff to provide updates at all upcoming City Council meetings.

The City Council adjourned their Special Meeting to a Regular Meeting.

Approved by Council Action:
________________________________
Mayor Robert Parkhurst
Minutes taken and typed by:
________________________________
Laura M. Aguilar
City Clerk

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.

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 prior to the meeting.

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

SIERRA MADRE CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
5:30 pm
City of Sierra Madre
City Council Chambers
232 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard
Sierra Madre, California 91024
Robert Parkhurst, Mayor
Kristine Lowe, Mayor Pro Tem
Edward Garcia, Council Member
Gene Goss, Council Member
Kelly Kriebs, Council Member
Sue Spears, City Treasurer
The Brown Act provides the public with an opportunity to make public comments at any public meeting; as an alternative, public comment may be made by e-mail to [email protected] by 3:00PM on the day of the meeting. Emails 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.cityofsierramadre.com, 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 which 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 Parkhurst called the meeting to order at 6:14 p.m. City Clerk Aguilar called the roll.

Present: Mayor Robert Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Kristine Lowe, Council Member Gene Goss, and Council Member Kelly Kriebs

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Also Present: Julia A. Homaechevarria, Deputy City Attorney Miguel Hernandez, Assistant City Manager
Laura Aguilar, City Clerk
Clare Lin, Director of Planning & Community Preservation Katelyn Huang, Assistant Planner
Leila Regan, City Librarian
Arnulfo Yanez, Director of Public Works
James Carlson, Senior Analyst

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INSPIRATION
Council Member Goss led the audience in the pledge of allegiance then shared inspirational messages by several notable figures.

APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Vote of the City Council to proceed with City business.

Council Member Goss made a motion to approve the agenda as presented.

Council Member Kriebs seconded the motion.

Mayor Parkhurst called for a vote of the Council:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: None.

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Abstain: None.

The motion to approve the agenda as presented was approved by a unanimous voice vote by all Members present.

REPORT OUT FROM CLOSED SESSION
The City Council met in Closed Session on July 8, 2025 to discuss:

CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL; ANTICIPATED LITIGATION (Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(2) and Gov. Code § 54956.9(e)(1))
A point has been reached where, in the opinion of the City Council on the advice of the City Attorney, based on the existing facts and circumstances, there is a significant exposure to litigation against the City. Facts and circumstances that might result in litigation but which the City believes are not yet known to potential plaintiff or plaintiffs.

Deputy City Attorney Julia A. Homaechevarria reported that the City Council met in closed session to discuss recent bear incidents; no reportable action was taken.

APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES
Approval of June 24, 2025 City Council meeting minutes.

Mayor Parkhurst asked Council for suggestions to amend the minutes; and also asked City Clerk Aguilar if any edits had been submitted by the City Council. City Clerk Aguilar stated that no suggestions for edits were submitted to the City Clerk’s Office in advance of the meeting.

Council Member Kriebs made a motion to approve the June 24, 2025 City Council meeting minutes as presented.

Mayor Pro Tem Lowe seconded the motion.

Mayor Parkhurst called for a vote of the Council:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: None.

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Abstain: None.

The motion to approve the June 24, 2025 meeting minutes as presented was approved by a unanimous voice vote by all Members present.

APPROVAL FOR READING RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
Vote of the City Council to read all Ordinances and Resolutions by title only and waive reading in full.

Mayor Parkhurst asked for a motion.

Council Member Goss made a motion to read all ordinances and resolutions by title only and waive the reading in full.

Council Member Kriebs seconded the motion.

Mayor Parkhurst called for a vote of the Council:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: None.

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Abstain: None.

The motion was approved by a unanimous voice vote by all Members present.

MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL REPORTS
Reporting of Council Members' activities related to City business.

Mayor Pro Tem Lowe:

Attended SCAG’s Safe and Active Streets working group on June 25. Mayor Pro Tem Lowe shared that there will be a free helmet distribution opportunity, as well as grant opportunities.

Attended the SGV Council of Governments’ reception and Board installation on June 26 in Monrovia.

Attended July 3rd festivities at Memorial Park and participated in the community photo.

She also attended the July 4th parade.

On July 7, she attended the Governor’s press conference, marking the 6-month anniversary of the Eaton and Palisades Fires. She reported that 96% of all properties have been cleared of debris.

Council Member Kriebs:

Attended Fourth of July festivities and thanked the Sierra Madre Special Events Committee for organizing all the events.

On July 8 took a tour of the Library to see the progress of construction on the Meaningful Improvement Project.

Council Member Goss:

Attended the SGV Council of Governments reception on June 26.

Also attended the events on the third and Fourth of July.

Also took a tour of the Library. He reported on the progress of the project.

Mayor Parkhurst:

Reported that he attended a meeting of the Clean Power Alliance on June 25, 2025, no reportable action was taken.

The Mayor also attended the Los Angeles County Sanitation meeting on June 25.

Attended the reception at the SGV Council of Governments on June 26.

Reported that he also participated in the July 3rd and 4th festivities.

He also attended the July 8 tour of the Library construction site and thanked staff and everyone involved in this project.

At the conclusion of Council’s reports, Mayor Parkhurst opened the forum for public comment on items not on the agenda. City Clerk Aguilar announced that no speaker cards or e-mails had been submitted for items not on the agenda.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION CODE OF CONDUCT
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 official 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 comment 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 comment period at the time the agenda item is brought forward. 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.

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 during the appropriate time on the agenda and should not be construed as an opportunity for dialogue.

Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Parkhurst closed public comment and moved on to presentations.

PRESENTATIONS

1. PROCLAMATION IN RECOGNITION OF PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH Mayor Parkhurst presented a proclamation to Community Services Supervisor Ted Tegart and Recreation Coordinator Brandon Wilson in recognition of July being Parks and Recreation Month.

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 presented the following reports:
a) CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 25-43 APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS It is recommended that the City Council approve Resolution 25-43 approving payment of City Warrants in the aggregate amount of $308,954.91, Sierra Madre Library Warrants in the aggregate amount of $5,244.22, and Payroll Transfer in the aggregate amount of $627,214.37, for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2025.
b) CONSIDERATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS (CC&RS) FOR HIGHLAND GARDENS HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION CONDOMINIUM PROJECT (PARCEL MAP 83897) – 182 W. HIGHLAND AVENUE
It is recommended that the City Council approve the CC&Rs associated with Parcel Map 83897 at 182 West Highland Avenue, pursuant to City Council Resolution 25-44. c) FACILITATING RECOVERY AFTER THE EATON FIRE: SURVEY OF HISTORIC

PROPERTIES
It is recommended the City Council accept the services offered by the coordinated efforts of the U.S. Department of the Interior working with the National Park Service and the City of Sierra Madre to complete a reconnaissance level survey of historic properties within the City of Sierra Madre.
d) APPROVAL OF THE FY 2025-2026 STATEMENT OF INVESTMENT POLICY It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 25-45, approving the Statement of Investment Policy for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, consistent with California Government Code and best practices recommended by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). e) CONSIDERATION OF USE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LOS ANGELES COUNTY FLOOD

CONTROL DISTRICT AND CITY OF SIERRA MADRE REGARDING BAILEY CANYON

WILDERNESS PARK
It is recommended that the City Council approve a use agreement between the Los Angeles County Flood Control District and the City of Sierra Madre for the use of Bailey Canyon Wilderness Park.

At the conclusion of City Clerk Aguilar’s report, Mayor Parkhurst brought the matter to the City Council for questions.

Mayor Parkhurst opened the item for public comment. Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Parkhurst closed public comment and brought the matter back to Council for further discussion or a motion.

The City Council held extensive discussion on Consent E. Mayor Pro Tem Lowe made a motion to move Consent E to Discussion. Council Member Goss seconded the motion. The motion to move Consent E to Discussion was approved by voice vote, as follows:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: None.

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Abstain: None.

Council Member Kriebs made a motion to approve Consent Items A through D.

Mayor Pro Tem Lowe seconded the motion to approve Consent Items A through D.

Mayor Parkhurst called for a vote of the Council:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: None.

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Abstain: None.

The motion to approve Consent Items A-D was approved by a unanimous voice vote by all Members present.

Following the Council’s vote, Mayor Parkhurst continued the meeting onto the sole Public Hearing.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 1467 AMENDING CHAPTER 9.32 (NOISE) OF TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS AND WELFARE) AND CHAPTER 8.40 (LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT) OF TITLE 8 (HEALTH AND SAFETY) OF THE SIERRA

MADRE MUNICIPAL CODE
It is recommended the City Council conduct its first reading of Ordinance No. 1467 amending Chapter 9.32 (Noise) of Title 9 (Public Peace, Morals and Welfare) and Chapter 8.40 (Landscaping Equipment) of Title 8 (Health and Safety) of the Sierra Madre Municipal Code.

Assistant Planner Huang presented the report on this Public Hearing. Assistant City Manager Hernandez advised the Council that the Consultant was tele-conferencing into the meeting and available for any questions from the Council.

Once the report was completed, Mayor Parkhurst brought the matter to the City Council for questions.

Mayor Parkhurst opened the item for public comment. City Clerk Aguilar advised that Allen Ma sent a public comment e-mail for this Public Hearing.

Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Parkhurst closed the public hearing and brought the matter back to Council for further discussion.

The City Council discussed how this ordinance would apply to public schools, and if the City has jurisdiction to enforce noise levels at public schools.

Council Member Kriebs asked that any changes consider a method to measure and enforce the standards; and keep the time from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Mayor Pro Tem Lowe asked to reword section A, B, and D in section 8.40.010 to clarify that “or any other machinery…” refers to landscape machinery.

Council directed staff to make changes to the Ordinance. Mayor Parkhurst directed staff to bring the updated ordinance back at a future meeting for a second first reading on the consent calendar.

At 7:57 Mayor Parkhurst called for a brief recess.
8:09 The City Council reconvened their meeting.

DISCUSSION

1. PERMITTING FOR FIRST AMENDMENT PROTECTED ASSEMBLIES
It is recommended that the City Council provide staff with direction.

Deputy City Attorney Homaechevarria presented the report to Council and summarized SMMC Chapter 12.34.

At the conclusion of her report, Mayor Parkhurst brought the matter to the City Council for questions.

Mayor Parkhurst opened the item for public comment. Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Parkhurst closed public comment and brought the matter back to Council for further discussion.

2. CONSIDERATION OF STUDENT COMMISSIONER PROGRAM
It is recommended that the City Council provide staff with direction.

City Clerk Aguilar presented this report to the City Council.

At the conclusion of City Clerk Aguilar’s report, Mayor Parkhurst brought the matter to the City Council for questions.

Mayor Parkhurst opened the item for public comment. Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Parkhurst closed public comment and brought the matter back to Council for further discussion or a motion.

Council directed staff to create a Student Commissioner program for students ages 13-21; up to two non-voting commissioners may serve on each respective commission; Sierra Madre residency is not required; terms are one-year and may be re-appointed by the commission, must attend at least 75% of meetings, and must include two references along with their application. e) Consent Item ‘e’ was moved to Discussion by Council action.

CONSIDERATION OF USE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LOS ANGELES COUNTY FLOOD

CONTROL DISTRICT AND CITY OF SIERRA MADRE REGARDING BAILEY CANYON

The City Council continued their discussion on Consent E. Senior Analyst Carlson reported on this item to the City Council.

Mayor Pro Tem shared her concerns about liability to the City if the agreement was approved. The City Council continued their discussion before Mayor Parkhurst opened the podium for public comment. Seeing no one come forward, Mayor Parkhurst closed public comment and brought the matter back to Council for further discussion or a vote.

Council Member Kriebs made a motion to approve the agreement between Los Angeles County Flood Control District and the City of Sierra Madre regarding Bailey Canyon Wilderness Park.

Council Member Goss seconded the motion.

The motion to move Consent ‘e’ was approved by voice vote, as follows:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, and Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Lowe.

Absent: Council Member Garcia.

Abstain: None.

The motion to approve the agreement between Los Angeles County Flood Control District and the City of Sierra Madre regarding Bailey Canyon Wilderness Park was approved by a vote of 3-1-1-0.

FUTURE ITEMS
Mayor Parkhurst asked if the Council had any suggestions for future agenda items.

Council Member Kriebs: ask Clean Power Alliance to report on the effect of the new federal budget to be on clean power and energy, generally.

Hearing no other requests from Council, Mayor Parkhurst moved to adjourn the meeting.

Council Member Kriebs seconded the motion to adjourn.

Mayor Parkhurst called for a vote of the Council:

Ayes: Mayor Parkhurst, Mayor Pro Tem Lowe, Council Members Goss and Kriebs Noes: None.

Absent: Council Member Garcia
Abstain: None.

The motion to adjourn the meeting to the next Regular meeting on August 26, 2025 at this same location was approved at 9:28 pm.

Minutes taken and typed by: Approved by Council Action:
_____________________ _______________________________
Laura M. Aguilar Robert Parkhurst
City Clerk Mayor

AVAILABILITY OF AGENDA MATERIALS
Materials related to items on this agenda are available for public inspection on the City’s website at www.cityofsierramadre.com.

LIVE BROADCASTS
Regular City Council meetings are broadcast live on Cable Channel 3 and rebroadcast on Wednesday and Saturday at 5:30 p.m.

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 prior to the meeting.

ADJOURNMENT
The City Council will adjourn to a meeting to take place on August 26, 2025.

City of Sierra Madre
Agenda Report
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Anthony Rainey, Finance Director
REVIEWED BY: Michael Bruckner, City Manager
DATE: August 26, 2025
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF WARRANTS FOR PAYMENT

STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council approve payment of the following:
x Outstanding Obligated City Warrants: $923,197.96
x Outstanding Obligated Sierra Madre Library Warrants: $613,734.50 x Payroll Transfer: $552,436.85

ALTERNATIVES

1. Approve the requested ratifications.

2. Direct staff to return with additional information.

SUMMARY
To ratify means to formally approve or confirm a decision or action, making it officially valid. In this context, it ensures that the City Council affirms the payment of public funds after a thorough review process. The City Council is requested to ratify warrants and approve checks issued for payment, as certified by the Director of Finance. These payments have been reviewed for compliance with the City’s approved budget, financial policies, and authorized spending limits.

Ratification by the City Council formally authorizes the disbursement of public funds, ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to sound fiscal management practices.

Attachment 1A – Warrant Register Post Date 8/12/25 - provides an aggregated breakdown of the warrants, including descriptions (e.g. categories of payments), amounts, and corresponding fiscal year allocations. Note that the last page It serves as a reference document to support the warrant approvals requested in this report, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial transactions. The attachment includes details on general warrants, utility bills, library warrants, and payroll transfers.

Robert Parkhurst, Mayor
Kristine Lowe, Mayor Pro Tem
Edward Garcia, Council Member
Gene Goss, Council Member
Kelly Kriebs, Council Member
Sue Spears, City Treasurer

Page 2 of 4 ends

Following Attachment 1A, the Check Approval Register provides a comprehensive record of financial disbursements by the City of Sierra Madre, detailing payment transactions, vendor information, and check dates to ensure transparency and accountability. Additionally, the Payroll Summary Register outlines payroll disbursements, including total earnings, employer expenses, and overall payroll costs for each pay period. The total payroll expenditure for the most recent pay period (PR #16) for Date 7/31/25:

Total Earnings (Salaries) @ $435,290.72 plus Employer Benefits1 @$117,146.13 = Total @ $552,436.85, This aligns with the payroll transfer amount listed in Attachment 1A. These records collectively support the accuracy and legitimacy of the financial transactions presented for approval.

ANALYSIS
State and City Requirements: The approval of warrants for payment by the City Council is a procedural requirement established under the California Government Code (§ 37208) and the Sierra Madre Municipal Code (§ 3.04.010). The City utilizes resolutions to approve warrants in accordance with Chapter 3.04 - Administration of Fiscal Matters under Title 3 - Finance of the Sierra Madre Municipal Code. These provisions outline the procedures and regulations governing the issuance and management of payment warrants, ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance in financial transactions involving public funds.

Warrant: A "warrant" is a written authorization directing the payment of money to vendors, contractors, or service providers for goods or services rendered to City departments. These measures ensure that public funds are used appropriately and in alignment with City policies and legal requirements.

Purpose of the Process: The primary purpose of this process is to confirm that all payments align with the City’s budgetary allocations, procurement policies, and service agreements.

Approval by the City Council serves as a critical management control, ensuring that expenditures are lawful, necessary, and consistent with City priorities. Department Heads review and verify invoices, while City staff maintain robust internal controls through proper documentation, authorization workflows, and reconciliation procedures.

Warrant for Payment Report: This attached report, commonly referred to as the Check Approval Register, provides a detailed account of payees, payment amounts, and purposes.

This tool allows the City Council and staff to actively monitor expenditures, ensuring financial oversight, fostering public trust, and reinforcing fiscal responsibility. Failure to adhere to these practices could expose the City to financial risks, compliance issues, and diminished public confidence.

Check Approval Register Overview: The Check Approval Register is generated using the City's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, Tyler Technologies Pro 10. This report offers a comprehensive overview of financial disbursements, including payee names, payment amounts, dates, and purposes. By providing a clear and detailed record of financial transactions, the register promotes transparency and ensures public funds are utilized effectively. This level of detail allows City Council members and residents to track municipal expenditures and reinforces accountability in financial management. The following are key fields from the Check Approval Register and their definitions:

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1. Packet: Refers to a batch of payment transactions processed together, often linked to a specific date or approval cycle.

2. Vendor Set: Identifies the category or group of vendors (e.g., utilities, general, or project-specific).

3. Vendor Number: A unique identifier assigned to each vendor for tracking and referencing purposes.

4. Vendor Name: The name of the individual or organization receiving the payment.

5. Bank Code: A code representing the bank account from which the payment is drawn.

6. Payment Type: Specifies the method of payment, such as check, electronic funds transfer (EFT), or wire transfer.

7. Invoice #: The unique number associated with the vendor's invoice, serving as a reference for the payment.

8. Invoice Description: A brief summary of the goods or services rendered, as described on the invoice.

9. Account Number: The City’s general ledger account charged for the payment, structured as follows:
a. Fund Code: (e.g., 10000) Identifies the fund, such as the General Fund. b. Department Code: (e.g., 81200) Indicates the responsible department, such as Public Works.
c. Object Code: (e.g., 52200) Specifies the type of expenditure, such as contractual services.

10. Distribution Amount: The amount allocated to a specific account, showing how the payment is distributed across budget line items.

These fields ensure accuracy, transparency, and accountability in financial reporting and expenditure tracking, aligning with the City’s commitment to sound fiscal management practices. This process not only fulfills legal and procedural requirements but also underscores the City's dedication to effective governance and responsible stewardship of public funds.

CONSISTENCY WITH GENERAL PLAN
Not applicable.

FINANCIAL REVIEW/SOURCE OF FUNDING
The payments presented for ratification have been made in accordance with the City’s approved budget for the fiscal year. All expenditures are charged to their respective funds and accounts as outlined in the City’s financial plan. The warrants, library payments, and payroll transfers were funded from the General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, and other designated

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funding sources, ensuring compliance with budgetary allocations and authorized spending limits. No unbudgeted or unauthorized expenses are included in this report.

ENVIRONMENTAL (CEQA)
Not applicable.

PUBLIC NOTICE PROCESS
This item has been noticed through the regular agenda notification process. Copies of this report can be accessed on the City’s website at www.cityofsierramadre.com.

Attachments
Resolution 25-47

1 These typically include: Payroll Taxes – Employer-paid portions of Social Security, Medicare (FICA), and state/federal unemployment taxes (FUTA/SUTA). Retirement Contributions – Employer contributions to pension plans or retirement accounts, such as CalPERS (California Public Employees' Retirement System). Health and Benefits Costs – Employer-provided health insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, or other employee benefits. Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Employer-paid premiums for workers' compensation coverage. Other Employer Liabilities – Any additional costs required by employment agreements, union contracts, or city policies.

RESOLUTION NUMBER 25-47

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SIERRA MADRE

APPROVING CERTAIN DEMANDS
WHEREAS, Government Code sections 37208-37209 authorize the City Council to ratify and approve warrants or checks drawn in payment of demands certified or approved by the Director of Finance as conforming to the budget; and, WHEREAS, the following demands have been reviewed and approved by the Finance Director; and,
WHEREAS, the Finance Director has verified that appropriated funds are available for payment thereof; and,
WHEREAS, the audited August 12, 2025 demands were released to vendors in accordance with City Council action item 1 on the May 13, 2025 Council meeting; and WHEREAS, City Warrants are the payment of bills, invoices and contractual obligations incurred by the City of Sierra Madre during the period enumerated therein, based on the approved fiscal year budget and existing budgetary authority, Municipal Code authority, or prior policy direction by the City Council; and WHEREAS, Payroll Transfer is the transfer of funds to cover the payroll costs for all City employees for the period enumerated therein.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Sierra Madre does hereby approve payment of City Warrants in the aggregate amount of $923,197.96; Sierra Madre Library Warrants in the aggregate amount of $613,734.50; and Payroll Transfer in the aggregate amount of $552,436.85 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 and 2026.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 26th day of August 2025.
_____________________________________
Mayor, City of Sierra Madre, California
I hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution Number 25-47 was adopted by the City Council of the City of Sierra Madre at a regular meeting held on the 26th day of August 2025.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
_____________________________________
City Clerk, City of Sierra Madre, California
City of Sierra Madre
Department of Finance
Warrant Register Recap
City Council Meeting of August 26, 2025

CITY OF SIERRA MADRE AND SIERRA MADRE LIBRARY
City of Sierra Madre Warrants …..……….………….…….……..……….……..$923,197.96 Sierra Madre Library Warrants……...…..……..…………...…………..…….….$613,734.50 Payroll Transfer……..…..............………..……………………………………….$552,436.85

STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council approve payment of the following:
x Outstanding Obligated City Warrants: $1,591,996.89
x Outstanding Obligated Sierra Madre Library Warrants: $841,975.37 x Payroll Transfer: $561,553.78

ALTERNATIVES

1. Approve the requested ratifications.

2. Direct staff to return with additional information.

Ratification by the City Council formally authorizes the disbursement of public funds, ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to sound fiscal management practices.

Attachment 1A – Warrant Register Post Date 8/26/25 - provides an aggregated breakdown of the warrants, including descriptions (e.g. categories of payments), amounts, and corresponding fiscal year allocations. Note that the last page It serves as a reference document to support the warrant approvals requested in this report, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial transactions. The attachment includes details on general warrants, utility bills, library warrants, and payroll transfers.

Robert Parkhurst, Mayor
Kristine Lowe, Mayor Pro Tem
Edward Garcia, Council Member
Gene Goss, Council Member
Kelly Kriebs, Council Member
Sue Spears, City Treasurer

Page 2 of 4 ends

Total Earnings (Salaries) @ $409,235.78 plus Employer Benefits1 @$152,318.00 = Total @ $561,553.78, This aligns with the payroll transfer amount listed in Attachment 1A. These records collectively support the accuracy and legitimacy of the financial transactions presented for approval.