Note: If this is a joint meeting of the City Council and Boards of Directors, the applicable entity is identified at the end of eac h agenda item.
CC – City Council PFA – Public Financing Authority
WWD – Waterworks District No. 8 SA – Successor Agency
IDA – Industrial Development Authority LB – Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees PFFA – Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the CC, WWD, IDA, PFFA, PFA, SA, and/or LB after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA during normal business hours.
AGENDA ITEM NO.
Consent (1)
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Simi Valley, California September 9, 2024
CALLED TO ORDER: 5:30 p.m. (CLOSED SESSION)
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
a. PUBLIC STATEMENTS: With no public statements, the City Council adjourned to Closed Session at 5:31 p.m.
b. CLOSED SESSION:
(1) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1):
Name of Case: Bruce Boyer v. City of Simi Valley
Case No.: 2:19-cv-00560-R-JPR
(2) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1):
Name of Case: Southland Watch v. City of Simi Valley, et al.
Case No.: VCSC 56-2022-00573170
(3) Public Employee Performance Evaluation (CC)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957(b)(1):
Title: City Attorney
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m. (OPEN SESSION)
CLOSED SESSION REPORTS: City Attorney Ford stated that no reportable action resulted from the Closed Session meeting held on September 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Barbara Laspina
Minutes September 9, 2024
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
1. AGENDA REVIEW: City Manager Argabrite noted that Consent Item 5 was pulled to a future meeting.
1A. ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved that all resolutions and ordinances presented tonight be read in title only and all further reading be waived. Council Member Litster seconded the motion. (CC)
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1B. It is the policy of the City Council that upon reaching 11:30 p.m., the City Council will not address any new agenda items. Should the City Council continue to address agenda items past 12:00 midnight, the following motion is in order:
MOTION: Move that the City Council meeting tonight may extend beyond the midnight deadline to conclude the Agenda (Section 2-1.106 SVMC).
1C. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT: None
1D. CERTIFICATES/HONORARY RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS:
(1) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring the month of September 2024 as Preparedness Month (CC)
Emergency Services Manager Eileen Connors read, and Mayor Thomas presented a proclamation declaring the month of September 2024 as Preparedness Month to the following Volunteer Disaster Service Workers : Phil Ankrom, Ed Baker, Daryl Clark, Jorge Curiel, Itzel Franco, Kirk Heinemann, Melissa Heinemann, and Brooke Zailo.
(2) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring the month of September 2024 as Suicide Prevention Month (CC)
Community Services Coordinator Ryan Fowler read, and Mayor Thomas presented , the proclamation declaring the month of September as Suicide Prevention Month to the Director of Planning and Sustainability of Ventura County Transportation Commission, Amanda Fagan, and Youth Council Members: Ethan Bhat, Prithika Bijith, Chloe Drury, Abishek Humbe, Advaith Nair, Hannah Khalil, Nandhiha Krishnamoorthi, Rithmika Nvaeen, Kalyssa Ro, Saydee Ro and Aman Sreejith.
2 Minutes September 9, 2024
(3) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring September 21, 2024, as Day of Peace (CC)
S
enior Management Analyst Heidi DiNardo read the proclamation declaring September 21, 2024, as a Day of Peace.
(4) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring the month of September as Service Club Month (CC)
S
enior Management Analyst Heidi DiNardo read the proclamation declaring the month of September as Service Club Month.
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON APPOINTMENTS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
3. APPOINTMENTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
3A. APPOINTMENTS:
(1) Designation of two City Council Members as the City’s voting delegates and alternate at the League of California Cities Annual Conference Business Meeting (Blanco) (CC)
ACTION: Council Member Cavanaugh moved that the Council authorize and the Mayor designate Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes as the City of Simi Valley's voting delegate and designate Council Member Judge as the alternate voting delegate to the 2024 League of California Cities Annual Conference Business Meeting, and authorize the City Clerk to sub mit the information through the California Cities new online submission form as requested in the attached 2024 Annual Conference Voting Delegate Information Packet. Council Member Litster seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3B. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
(1) Arroyo Simi Bridge Suicide Prevention Task Force Update (CC) Amanda Fagan, Director of Planning and Sustainability for the Ventura County Transportation Committee, presented the City Council with an update on the Arroyo Simi Suicide Prevention Task Force.
3 Minutes September 9, 2024
3C. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
(1) Informational presentation by Youth Council member Chloe Drury (CC)
Youth Council Member Chloe Drury provided an informational report on behalf of the Youth Council.
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Ashley Paige (no address given) wished Mayor Thomas a happy birthday and presented him with birthday balloons and treats.
2. Greg Schwabe of Schwabe Boots, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about a fire on Easy Street that resulted in his building being red- tagged. He is asking for the City Council’s assistance in the process to remove the red tag status.
3. Karen Meyer, Thousand Oaks, CA, United Sovereign Americans, submitted a resolution regarding a legally valid 2024 election and requested that the resolution be added to the next Agenda.
4. Sheila Johnson, United Sovereign Americans, Simi Valley, CA, read aloud a section of the resolution submitted by the United Sovereign Americans.
5. Jenny Hansen (no address given), United Sovereign Americans, read aloud a section of the resolution submitted by the United Sovereign Americans.
6. Brandee Sisting (no address given), United Sovereign Americans, read aloud a section of the resolution submitted by the United Sovereign Americans.
7. Ron Meyer (no address given), United Sovereign Americans, spoke in support of the resolution and urged the Council to place the resolution on the next Agenda.
8. Michael Shaw, from Simi Valley, CA, spoke about the positive experience he had as a speaker at a school Brown Bag Lunch event. He inquired about the condition of the City of Simi Valley sidewalks and asked candidates on the ballot to respect their opponents.
The following submitted a speaker card but did not speak:
1. William F. Klepper, Simi Valley, CA, and the Simi Valley Police Foundation wished Mayor Thomas a happy birthday.
4 Minutes September 9, 2024
4A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS:
Council Member Litster asked City Manager Samantha Argabrite if there was an update for Mr. Schwabe. The City Manager stated that she had spoken with Environmental Services, and staff will contact Mr. Schwabe tomorrow. Council Member Litster thanked the speakers from the United Sovereign Americans for their informative presentation regarding a resolution and asked the City Attorney to comment on the issue. Council Member Litster advised Mr. Shaw that there is a link on the City of Simi Valley website for i mmediate reporting of a sidewalk in need of repair or a trip and fall incident.
Council Member Cavanaugh thanked everyone for coming to the meeting and sharing their observations. She thanked the speakers from the United Sovereign Americans for the opportunity to review their resolution. She thanked Mr. Shaw for his comments, addressed Greg Schwabe's concern regarding the red tag on his building, and thanked the service club members who were present.
Council Member Judge thanked everyone for coming to the meeting. He commented on the resolution presented by the United Sovereign Americans and stated that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. He also addressed Greg Schwabe's concern regarding the red tag on his building.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes thanked the speakers from United Sovereign Americans for the resolution and agreed with Mr. Shaw's comments about the Brown Bag Lunch Program. He spoke about the importance of respect between candidates and commented that a candidate must get a business owner's approval to place a sign at their business.
Mayor Thomas expressed support for election integrity and commented that he would read the resolution submitted by United Sovereign Americans. He addressed Mr.
Shaw's concern about sidewalk repairs and commented that a candidate must get a business owner's approval to place a sign at their business.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
6. CONTINUED PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
5 Minutes September 9, 2024
7. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Council Member Litster pulled Consent Items 1 and 2 for discussion.
(1) Approval of the Draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2023- 24 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for submission to the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (Perros) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(2) Award of contract for the construction of the installation of left -turn phasing at three intersections project (HSIP Cycle 11), CP600000039, Specification No.
SV 24-04 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded contract to PTM General Engineering Services, Inc.
(3) Award of contract to ACCO Engineered Systems, Inc. for acquisition and replacement of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System at the Transit Maintenance Facility, utilizing Sourcewell Cooperative Construction Contract No. CA-R7-HVAC-101723-AES, CP5000001, FAIN: CA-2023-095-00 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded contract to ACCO Engineered Systems, Inc.
(4) Award contract to Superior Alarm Systems for the Maintenance and Servicing of the City's Access Control and Video Monitoring Systems; and Alarm Monitoring Services, Specification No. SV 24-30 (Johnson) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded a contract to Superior Alarm Systems.
(5) A dopt a resolution to waive the bid process pursuant to the Public Contract Code, and award the contract to Atlas Copco Compressors LLC for compressor maintenance and repairs at the City's Water Quality Control Plant and authorize the City Manager to approve any subsequent contract amendments (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
Resolution No. 2024 -36 - A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE A STANDARD PUBLIC WORKS AGREEMENT
WITH ATLAS COPCO COMPRESSORS LLC WITHOUT THE NEED FOR
COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR COMPRESSOR MAINTENANCE IN THE
AMOUNT OF $79,785
ACTION: The item was pulled for a future meeting.
6 Minutes September 9, 2024
(6) Adoption of a resolution approving the transfer of ownership and the Amended and Restated Affordable Housing Agreement (AHA-2024-0004) between the City of Simi Valley and Harmony Terrace Apartments (Perros) (CC)
Resolution No. 2024- 37 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SIMI VALLEY AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP
AND APPROVING THE AMENDED AND RESTATED AFFORDABLE
HOUSING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF SIMI VALLEY AND
HARMONY SIMI VALLEY AR, L.P. (AHA-2024-0004)
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 2024-37.
ACTION: Council Member Litster moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 3, 4, and
6. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ACTION: Council Member Litster moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and 2.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. CONTINUED BUSINESS:
8A. Second reading of Ordinance No. 1359 approving a change of zone classification (Z- S-2021-0007) to change the zone of a 0.64-acre property from Residential Medium (RM) to Commercial Planned Development (CPD) at 4343 Township Avenue; and a zone text amendment (Z-S-2024-0001) to amend portions of Title 9 of the Simi Valley Municipal Code to modify setback standards and landscape buffers; and a determination that the amendments are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (Perros) (CC)
Ordinance No. 1359 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING A CHANGE OF ZONE CLASSIFICATION (Z -S-2021- 0007) TO CHANGE THE ZONE OF A 0.64-ACRE PROPERTY FROM RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM (RM) TO COMMERCIAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (CPD) AT 4343 7 Minutes September 9, 2024
TOWNSHIP AVENUE; AND A ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT (Z -S-2024-0001) TO AMEND PORTIONS OF TITLE 9 OF THE SIMI VALLEY MUNICIPAL CODE TO MODIFY SETBACK STANDARDS AND LANDSCAPE BUFFERS; AND A
DETERMINATION THAT THE AMENDMENTS ARE EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
ACTION: Council Member Judge moved to adopt Ordinance No. 1359. Council Member Cavanaugh seconded the motion:
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
9. NEW BUSINESS: None
10. REPORTS:
10A. City Council/Board Member/Trustees/Special District Member Reports:
Council Member Litster reported she attended the Ventura Council of Governments (VCOG) Broadband Subcommittee meeting, met with the City Manager, and attended the Farewell Reception for Jennifer Swenson, CEO of Adventist Health Simi Valley.
She also attended the New Beginnings Church Community Café - Beginnings Brew grand opening, spoke at the 3
rd Annual 13 Souls Memorial Run, and attended the Sky
Martial Arts Simi Valley 10 th anniversary event. Additionally, Council Member Litster reported attending the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Legislative Affairs meeting, the Valley Industry and Commerce Association (VICA) Local Officeholders Luncheon, a SCAG tour of Port Hueneme, and the Family Justice Center Strategic Planning meeting at California Lutheran University. She also attended the Grand Opening of the 2
nd Annual Simi Film Festival at Studio Movie Grill, the Royal vs. Simi High School football game, the St. Rose of Lima Church Blue Mass Celebration, and performed with the Simi Orchestra for the Simi Film Festival.
Council Member Cavanaugh reported that she attended and spoke at the Farewell Reception for Jennifer Swenson, CEO of Adventist Health Simi Valley, attended the Simi Valley Police Foundation Golf Tournament, the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Executive Board meeting, and commented about the Port Hueneme annual Banana Festival , which will be held on September 28. She also attended the Ventura County Animal Shelter (VCAS) Clear the Shelters event and the St. Rose of Lima Church Blue Mass Celebration.
8 Minutes September 9, 2024
Council Member Judge reported attending the Farewell Reception for Jennifer Swenson, CEO of Adventist Health Simi Valley; the 3rd Annual 13 Souls Memorial Run; the Simi Valley Police Foundation Golf Tournament; and the Elks Club Labor Day party. He also attended the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Council Transportation Committee and Executive Action Committee meetings, and the Ventura County Transportation Committee (VCTC) meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes reported that he attended a meeting on the Lost Canyons Project, participated in interviews for the Assistant City Manager and Deputy City Manager positions, attended a SCAG Community Economic and Human Development (CEHD) Committee briefing via ZOOM, and attended the Farewell Reception for Jennifer Swenson, CEO of Adventist Health Simi Valley . H e also attended the New Beginnings Church Community Café - Beginnings Brew grand opening. He stated that he was unable to attend the 13 Souls Memorial Run due to a scheduling conflict; however, he did attend the Ventura Sheriff K9 Foundation Golf Classic, the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce's Legislative Affairs call, and the Simi Valley Police Foundation Golf Tournament. Additionally, he attended the SCAG tour of Port Hueneme, a Rotary Club fundraiser, a second CEHD briefing via ZOOM, and several additional SCAG meetings. He reported that he was a speaker for the Royal High School Brown Bag Lunch, stopped by the Simi Valley Cops N’ Cruisers Car Show, and met with the City Attorney and the City Manager regarding a resolution that will be presented at the League of California Cities.
Mayor Thomas reported that he participated in interviews for the Assistant City Manager and Deputy City Manager positions, had a call with the City Manager and a production company that will produce a public television special on Simi Valley hosted by Dennis Quaid, and attended and spoke at the 3
rd Annual 13 Souls Memorial Run.
He also attended the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Tourism Alliance meeting, met with an entertainment company that is planning on building a large entertainment center in Simi Valley, had a C -Level meeting with River Plate Inc., and attended the Association of California Water Agencies meeting. Mayor Thomas stated he attended the St. Rose of Lima Church Blue Mass Celebration and the Simi Valley Cops N’ Cruisers Car Show.
10B. City Council/Board Member/Special District Member Requests for Future City Council Agenda Items:
Council Member Judge thanked Mayor Thomas and City Manager Argabrite for bringing the proclamation regarding Service Club Month.
Council Member Cavanaugh requested information regarding left turn lights at Tapo Street and Alamo Street. Public Works Director Fuchiwaki stated that the developer and the City are working on this project.
9 Minutes September 9, 2024
Council Member Litster requested a future agenda item regarding street finishing and additional parking on Township Avenue. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes seconded.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Thomas adjourned the meeting at 8:40 p.m. in memory of Robert “Bob” Spellman, Ron Jackowitcz, and San Diego Police Officer Austin Machitar, to the meeting on September 23, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. There being no objections, the motion carried through acclamation.
_________________________________
Fred D. Thomas, Mayor of the City of Simi
Valley, California,
________________________________
Lucy Blanco, CMC, City Clerk
10 Note: If this is a joint meeting of the City Council and Boards of Directors, the applicable entity is identified at the end of eac h agenda item.
CC – City Council PFA – Public Financing Authority
WWD – Waterworks District No. 8 SA – Successor Agency
IDA – Industrial Development Authority LB – Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees PFFA – Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the CC, WWD, IDA, PFFA, PFA, SA, and/or LB after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA during normal business hours.
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Simi Valley, California September 23, 2024
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m. (OPEN SESSION)
CLOSED SESSION REPORTS: None
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Luis Garibay
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes and Mayor Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
1. AGENDA REVIEW: None
1A. ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved that all resolutions and ordinances presented tonight be read in title only and all further reading be waived. Council Member Litster seconded the motion. (CC)
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1B. It is the policy of the City Council that upon reaching 11:30 p.m., the City Council will not address any new agenda items. Should the City Council continue to address agenda items past 12:00 midnight, the following motion is in order:
MOTION: Move that the City Council meeting tonight may extend beyond the midnight deadline to conclude the agenda (Section 2-1.106 SVMC).
1C. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT: None
11 Minutes September 23, 2024
1D. CERTIFICATES/HONORARY RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS:
(1) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring September 15 – October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month (CC)
Assistant to the City Manager Angel Sierra read and Mayor Thomas presented a Proclamation declaring September 15, 2024 – October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month to Cultural Arts Center Foundation President Gina Truncale, and Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board Members Anarosa Estevez and Salwa Scarpone.
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON APPOINTMENTS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
3. APPOINTMENTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
None
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Michael Shaw, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about sidewalk trip and fall hazards he has observed and asked City Council to address the issue.
2. Joel Harriott, Waste Management, Simi Valley, CA, commented that Waste Management will be distributing food waste pails at the October 26 th Simi Valley
Street Fair.
3. Mark Luker, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about the pedestrian safety concerns he has observed with electric bicycles driving on the sidewalks.
4. Jeanie Mortensen, Council On Aging, Simi Valley, CA, read aloud a statement of concern regarding cuts in service levels to the Meals on Wheels Program.
5. Pete Stong, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about his concerns for the future of the Senior Nutrition Program and suggested ways to improve it.
6. John Lapper, Simi Valley, CA, commented on the need for road repairs, inquired about the status of the motorcycles ordered for the Simi Valley Police Department, and discussed inflammatory social media posts.
7. Arrie Voth, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in support of funding to subsidize the Senior Nutrition Program.
12 Minutes September 23, 2024
8. Carol Martin, Simi Valley Senior Center Volunteer Coordinator, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in support of funding to subsidize the Senior Nutrition Program.
9. Ed Mazeika (no address provided) spoke in support of funding to subsidize the Senior Nutrition Program, sharing his observations as a Meals on Wheels driver.
4A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS:
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes commented on the concern about electric bikes on sidewalks and asked the Police Department to advise the City Council on how they are addressing this issue. He thanked Mr. Lapper for his correspondence and spoke about the City’s street maintenance schedule. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes asked the City Attorney to comment about the role the City has in monitoring social media activity.
The City Attorney stated the City is responsible for official City Websites. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes addressed the concerns raised by several speakers regarding the Meals on Wheels Program.
Council Member Litster acknowledged that there are sidewalks that need repair and recommended that the public inform the City if they are aware of any hazards. She also thanked the representative from Waste Management for the information on the organics waste pails. Council Member Litster spoke about the use of electric bikes on sidewalks and asked the Chief of Police to address the issue. Chief Shorts stated that there is a vehicle code that covers electric bikes. The Police Department is using social media to educate the public on what is allowed, and officers are conducting enforcement. Council Member Litster thanked Mr. Lapper for his comments, and she addressed the concerns raised by several speakers regarding the Meals on Wheels Program.
Council Member Judge thanked everyone for coming to the meeting and speaking.
He advised the public that if they see any sidewalk or road problem in the City, they should contact the Public Works Department through the City website, and it will be fixed. He addressed the concerns raised by several speakers regarding the Meals on Wheels Program.
Mayor Thomas spoke about sidewalk repairs and the need for the public to report a problem, and he asked Police Chief Shorts for a status on the motorcycle purchase .
Chief Shorts stated that due to a supply chain issue, the motorcycles are currently located in Long Beach waiting on equipment for the essential radar system. Mayor Thomas addressed the concerns raised by several speakers regarding the Meals on Wheels Program and stated that the Council will work hard to find a solution.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
13 Minutes September 23, 2024
6. CONTINUED PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
7. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Council Member Litster pulled Consent Items 1 and 4 for discussion.
(1) Approval of minutes for the City Council meeting of June 24, 2024 (Blanco) (CC)
ACTION: Approved minutes.
(2) Approval of Monthly Investment Report for the month ended August 31, 2024 (Johnson) (CC)
ACTION: Approved Request.
(3) Authorization for GSE Construction Company, Inc. to substitute subcontractors for the Digester Mixer and Secondary Clarifier Removal and Installation Project, CP70200055 & CP70200056, Specification. No. SV 24-28 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved Request.
(4) Approval of funding to subsidize the Senior Nutrition Program for Fiscal Year 2024-25 and approval of a Supplemental Budget Request in Fund 122 with an interfund transfer to Fund 100 (Argabrite) (CC)
ACTION: Approved Supplemental Budget Request.
(5) Authorization to purchase Ford Police Utility Interceptors from Folsom Lake Ford through the State of California Department of General Services Cooperative Agreement, Authorize the City Manager (or designee) to execute related purchasing documents (Shorts) (CC)
ACTION: Approved Cooperative Agreement with Folsom Lake Ford.
ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 2, 3, and 5. Council Member Cavanaugh seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
14 Minutes September 23, 2024
ACTION: Council Member Litster moved to approve Consent Calendar Item 1. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved to approve Consent Calendar Item 4.
Council Member Litster seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. CONTINUED BUSINESS: None
9. NEW BUSINESS: None
10. REPORTS:
10A. City Council/Board Member/Trustees/Special District Member Reports:
Council Member Litster reported attending the Southern California Edison Government Advisory Panel meeting (virtual), the Moorpark College Foundation Evening with Mike Madrid, the Ventura Council of Governments (VCOG) Broadband Subcommittee meeting, and the Simi Valley Arts Commission meeting. S he also reported attending another VCOG meeting (virtual), the Simi Valley Education Foundation's Teacher of the Month presentation, the Soroptimist Simi Valley Little Black Dress event, and commented on the Youth Council's Rock Painting event.
Council Member Litster stated she attended the International Day of Peace event at Rancho Tapo Community Park and the Apricot Festival at Strathearn Historical Park.
Council Member Cavanaugh reported that she was out of town for a few days on business, but attended the Soroptimist Simi Valley Little Black Dress event, commented on the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center’s Hispanic Festival, and spoke at the Brown Bag Lunch event at Simi Valley Royal High School.
Council Member Judge reported that he attended the VCOG meeting, the Mobility 21 Summit, and the Simi Valley Senior Center Bingo Bonanza. 15 Minutes September 23, 2024
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes reported that he attended an event at the Simi Valley Boys and Girls Club, the Bridle Path HOA meeting, and the Arts Commission meeting (virtual). He also reported being away on business in China,
Mayor Thomas reported that he had a meeting with the City Auditor (Vasquez & Co., LLP), was invited to a Los Angeles Business Journal event where he was honored as one of the most influential people in the region, and attended the Soroptimist Simi Valley Little Black Dress event. He also shared that he was interviewed by a local church on the topic of politics and religion.
10B. City Council/Board Member/Special District Member Requests for Future City Council Agenda Items:
Council Member Litster requested information on a traffic light outage and repair time at Los Angeles Avenue and Erringer Road. City Manager Argabrite stated that the current delay is due to Metrolink timing its lights to coincide with the City’s traffic lights.
She shared that the City’s equipment is aging and Public Works is addressing the issue.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Thomas adjourned the meeting at 8:23 p.m. in memory of Barney Kort , t o the meeting of October 7 , 2024, at 6:30 p.m.
There being no objections, the motion carried through
acclamation.
_________________________________
Fred D. Thomas, Mayor of the City of Simi
Valley, California
________________________________
Lucy Blanco, CMC, City Clerk
16 Note: If this is a joint meeting of the City Council and Boards of Directors, the applicable entity is identified at the end of each agenda item.
CC – City Council PFA – Public Financing Authority
WWD – Waterworks District No. 8 SA – Successor Agency
IDA – Industrial Development Authority LB – Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees PFFA – Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the CC, WWD, IDA, PFFA, PFA, SA, and/or LB after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA during normal business hours.
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
VENTURA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT NO. 8
Simi Valley, California October 7, 2024
CALLED TO ORDER: 5:30 p.m. (CLOSED SESSION)
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
a. PUBLIC STATEMENTS: Having no public statements, the City Council adjourned to Closed Session at 5:31 p.m.
b. CLOSED SESSION:
(1) Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation (CC) Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2):
One (1) Matter:
1. Raio Claim
(2) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1):
One (1) Matter:
Name of Case: City of Simi Valley vs Ali Reza Zakeri
Case No.: 2024CUPP019886
(3) Conference with Real Property Negotiator (CC)
Property APN: 500-0-291-215
Agency Negotiator: Samantha C. Argabrite, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: City of Simi Valley
Under Negotiation: Instruction to the negotiator regarding price and terms
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m. (OPEN SESSION)
CLOSED SESSION REPORTS: City Attorney Ford stated ther e was no reportable action as a result of the Closed Session meeting held on October 7, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. 17 Minutes October 7, 2024
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Abhishek Humbe
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice -Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair
Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
1. AGENDA REVIEW: City Manager Argabrite noted a supplemental report for item 5A.
1A. ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem/Vice -Chair Rhodes moved that all resolutions and ordinances presented tonight be read in title only and all further reading be waived.
Council Member/Director Litster seconded the motion. (CC/WWD)
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members /Directors/Trustees Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/V ice-Chair/President Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair/President Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1B. It is the policy of the City Council that upon reaching 11:30 p.m., the City Council will not address any new agenda items. Should the City Council continue to address agenda items past 12:00 midnight, the following motion is in order:
MOTION: Move that the City Council meeting tonight may extend beyond the midnight deadline to conclude the agenda (Section 2-1.106 SVMC).
1C. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT: None
1D. CERTIFICATES/HONORARY RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS:
(1) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring the month of October 2024 as Bullying Prevention Month (CC)
Community Services Coordinator Ryan Fowler read and Mayor Thomas presented Youth Council M embers Abishek Humbe and Arjun Prabhuram with a Proclamation declaring the month of October 2024 as Bullying Prevention Month.
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON APPOINTMENTS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. John Lapper, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about bullying and in support of the Proclamation declaring the month of October 2024 as Bullying Prevention Month. 18 Minutes October 7, 2024
3. APPOINTMENTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
3A. APPOINTMENTS: None
3B. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
(1) Presentation of Simi Valley Transit’s New Microtransit Service (CC)
Deputy Public Works Director Ben Gonzales presented a special update to the City Council on Simi Valley Transit’s new Microtransit Service.
3C. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
(1) Informational presentation by Youth Council member Abhishek Humbe (CC)
Youth Council Member Abhishek Humbe provided an informational report on behalf of the Youth Council.
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Joann Culligar (no address given), Brand Ambassador for Flume Internet, commented that Flume Internet is a provider that has been install ing fiber optic internet throughout Simi Valley.
2. Phil, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about several of his concerns relative to public protests.
3. Michael Shaw, Simi Valley, CA, requested an update on sidewalk concerns, asked about the City’s stance on homelessness, commented on free transit for students and seniors, and asked the City Council to consider holding open forums with the community.
4. John Lapper, Simi Valley, CA, commented in remembrance of the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, and he spoke in opposition to the City Council endorsing a School Board candidate.
19 Minutes October 7, 2024
4A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS:
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes spoke about the fiber backbone and the benefits of having competitive providers in Simi Valley to connect to the internet. He commented that Brown Act regulations must be followed regarding City Council holding public forums, and he thanked Mr. Lapper for his comments in remembrance of the October 7, 2023, tragedy in Israel.
Council Member Cavanaugh thanked everyone for coming out and speaking. She appreciated the information from Joann Culligar regarding connecting the fiber to the internet. She advised Phil to reach out to her at City Hall by calling the City Manager’s Office and thanked Mr. Shaw for his good ideas. Council Member Cavanaugh commented to Mr. Lapper that she was not at the Candidate Forum held at the VFW Museum as he had indicated, and she thanked him for his comments in remembrance of the October 7, 2023, tragedy in Israel.
Mayor Thomas spoke about holding public forums and a Town Hall he had held. He spoke about politics becoming too negative and expressed the importance of everyone respecting each other’s point of view.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
5A. A public hearing to consider a request from City Ventures Homebuilding, LLC, for a General Plan Amendment (GPA -2022-0001) to change the land use designation from General Commercial and Medium Density Residential to High Density Residential; A zone change (Z -S-2022-0003) from Commercial Planned Development (CPD) and Residential Medium Density (RM) to Residential High Density (RH); a Planned Development Permit (PD -S-2022- 0012);a Vesting Tentative Map (VTT -2024-0001); and an Affordable Housing Agreement (AHA -2022-0002); to construct a new 70- unit, three -story multi - family res idential condominium development with ten affordable units located at 1845 Oak Road; and the adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, introduction of an ordinance, and adoption of resolutions (Perros) (CC)
Ordinance 1360 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING A CHANGE OF ZONE CLASSIFICATION (Z -S-2022-0003)
FROM COMMERCIAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (CPD) AND RESIDENTIAL
MEDIUM DENSITY (RM) TO RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RH) FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1845 OAK ROAD; AND ADOPTION OF A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Resolution No. 2024-38 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (GPA- 2022- 0001), PLANNED DEVELOPMENT PERMIT (PD -S-2022-0012) AND VESTING TENTATIVE MAP (VTT -2024-0001) TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW 70 - 20 Minutes October 7, 2024
UNIT, THREE -STORY, MULTI -FAMILY RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM DEVELOPMENT LOCATED AT 1845 OAK ROAD; AND ADOPT A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM
Resolution No. 2024- 39 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING AGREEMENT (AHA- 2022-0002) WITH CITY VENTURES HOMEBUILDING, LLC, FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF 70 TOWNHOMES INCLUDING 10 ONE-BEDROOM UNITS TO BE RESERVED FOR MODERATE- INCOME HOUSEHOLDS LOCATED AT 1845
OAK ROAD
Mayor Thomas opened the public portion of the hearing at 7:57p.m.
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Eric Miller, City Ventures, Project Applicant, spoke in support of the project.
2. Dane McDuugull, City Ventures, Project Civil Engineer, spoke in support of the project.
3. Coral Ausanbruck, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in support of the project.
4. Zui Strausman, Simi Valley, CA, commented about his concerns with underground pumps and the water flow of the project.
Mayor Thomas closed the public portion of the hearing at 8:28 p.m.
ACTION: Council Member/Director Litster moved to i ntroduce Ordinance No. 1360, approving the Zone Change No. Z -S-2022-0003; and adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program; adopt Resolution No. 2024- 38 approving General Plan Amendment No. GPA -2022-0001, Planned Development Permit No . PD-S-2022-0012 and Vesting Tentative Map No.
VTT-2024-0001; and adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program; a dopt Resolution No. 2024- 39 approving the Affordable Housing Agreement (AHA -2022-0002), with the amendment as proposed to Planned Development Permit Condition number B-13: that before the City Engineer issues a g rading permit, permittee must provide to the Public Works Director, or designee, a storm water acceptance deed or easement if no adequate downstream drainage facility exists to receive runoff from the project. The deed or easement must comply with Chapter 6 of the Ventura County Land Development Manual as adopted by City of Simi Valley Resolution No. 69-8. Drainage improvements on private property must be continually maintained, repaired, and replaced by the property owner(s) or Homeowners Association(s). Alternatively, the Permittee may provide to the City a storm drain design that includes an underground storm drainpipe stub-out at both the southwest and southeast property lines to allow for future connection for any future development of properties to the south.
21 Minutes October 7, 2024
Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair Rhodes seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. CONTINUED PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
7. CONSENT CALENDAR:
(1) Authorization to accept funding from California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for Carbon Reduction Program and create a new project in Munis and approval of a Supplemental Budget Request in the Transit Fund (Fund 750) and Local Transportation Fund (Fund 238) with an interfund transfer; authorization for the City Manager or designee to approve any grant related documents (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(2) Approve the purchase of three replacement vehicles for the Sanitation and Waterworks divisions , utilizing the Sourcewell Cooperative Agreement and approval of a Supplemental Budget Request (Fuchiwaki) (CC/WWD)
ACTION: Approved request.
(3) Rejection of bids, revise specifications, and re-bid for the construction of the FY 2024-25 Annual Major Streets Rehabilitation Program: Yosemite Avenue (Katherine Street to 118 Freeway), CP60000018, Specification No. SV 24- 12 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(4) Approval of first amendment to the contract between the City of Simi Valley and Venco Western, Inc. for Simi Valley Landscape District No. 1 Maintenance Services, Contract C, Specification No. SV 22-32, and authorization for the City Manager to approve any subsequent contract amendments (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved the first amendment to the contract with Venco Western, Inc.
(5) Approval of first amendment to the contract between the City of Simi Valley and Toro Enterprises, Inc. for FY 2023- 24 Annual Minor Streets Rehabilitation Program, SB1, CP60000023, Specification No. SV 24-09 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
22 Minutes October 7, 2024
ACTION: Approved the first amendment to the contract with Toro Enterprises, Inc.
(6) Adoption of a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the Recipient Certifications and Assurances and related documents for submission to the California Department of Transportation for the State of Good Repair Program and Annual State Transit Assistance Funds (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
Resolution No. 2024-40 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SIMI VALLEY AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE RECIPIENT
CERTIFICATIONS AND ASSURANCES FOR THE CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATE OF GOOD REPAIR
PROGRAM FUNDED BY SENATE BILL 1 (SB 1) FOR FY 2024-25
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 2024-40.
(7) Adoption of a resolution accepting public improvements for Tract No. 6019, located at 2145 Callahan Avenue (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
Resolution No. 2024-41 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SIMI VALLEY ACCEPTING THE PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT NO. 6019, LOCATED AT 2145 CALLAHAN AVENUE
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 2024-41.
ACTION: Council Member/Director Judge moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 through 7. Council Member/Director Cavanaugh seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members /Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. CONTINUED BUSINESS: None
9. NEW BUSINESS:
9A. Authorization to waive the bidding process pursuant to the Simi Valley Municipal Code, and award a contract to Econolite Control Products, Inc. for traffic signal equipment (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Council Member/Director Cavanaugh moved to waive the bidding process in accordance with Simi Valley Municipal Code (SVMC) section 2 -9.201(e); award a contract to Econolite Control Products, Inc. for traffic signal equipment, in a form approved by the City Attorney, for an amount not -to-exceed $200,000, from October 23 Minutes October 7, 2024
7, 2024, to October 6, 2026, for a two- year term with an option to extend for three additional one- year terms; authorize the City Manager to execute any subsequent contract amendments as well as incorporate future budgeted funds into the contract amount for the three, one- year term extensions. Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair Rhodes seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
10. REPORTS:
10A. City Council/Board Member/Trustees/Special District Member Reports:
Council Member Litster reported that she attended the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Southern California Demographic Workshop, met with two members of the Council On Aging, and attended the Southern California Edison (SCE) DRPED Access and Tutorial Introduction Session. She reported attending the City of Simi Valley Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, the Seventh- Day Adventist Political Discourse event, the Hispanic Heritage Festival at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, and the Metropolitan Fashion Week Closing Gala held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Council Member Litster reported she was out of State for about a week on personal business, attended the Simi Valley Rotary Club Oktoberfest, was unable to attend the Simi Valley Library Casino Night, and met with Gary Seaton from City Ventures. She also recognized the one-year anniversary of the war in Israel and expressed condolences to the families affected.
Council Member Cavanaugh reported she spoke at the Simi Valley Royal High School Brown Bag Lunch event, attended the City of Simi Valley Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, the Hispanic Heritage Festival at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, and met with Gary Seaton from City Ventures. She reported attending the League of Women Voters' Mayor’s Forum and the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Executive Board meeting, and commented on the passing of Simi Valley resident Jan Smith.
Council Member Judge reported that he was unable to attend the City of Simi Valley Volunteer Dinner due to his commitment to attend the SCAG Geothermal and Lithium tour. H e attended a meeting with Gary Seaton from City Ventures, the League of Women Voters, and the Mayor’s Forum, and recognized the one-year anniversary of the attack on Israel and expressed condolences to the families affected. He stated that he attended the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) meeting, the Simi Valley Elks Lodge Car Show, and the Simi Valley Rotary Club Oktoberfest, but was unable to attend the Simi Valley Library Casino Night.
24 Minutes October 7, 2024
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes reported that he attended the SCAG Southern California Demographic Workshop via ZOOM, the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Legislative Affairs via ZOOM, the City of Simi Valley Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, and the Academy Graduation of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. He also attended the Hispanic Heritage Festival at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, the Metropolitan Fashion Week Closing Gala held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, a meeting with Gary Seaton from City Ventures, and the League of Women Voters Mayor’s Forum. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes stated that he attended the League of California Cities Government Transparency and Labor Relations Committee meeting, the Simi Valley Rotary Club Oktoberfest, and shared that he was unable to attend the Simi Valley Library Casino Night.
Mayor Thomas reported that he attended the City of Simi Valley Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, the Metropolitan Fashion Week Closing Gala held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, a meeting with Gary Seaton from City Ventures, and participated in the League of Women Voters Mayor’s Forum. He stated he attended the Youth Council meeting and had a C Level visit with Scientific Cutting Tools, located on Los Angeles Avenue in Simi Valley.
10B. City Council/Board Member/Special District Member Requests for Future City Council Agenda Items: None
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor/Chair Thomas adjourned the meeting at 9:55 p.m. in memory of Steve Williams, t o the meeting of October 21 , 2024, at 6:30 p.m. There being no objections, the motion carried through acclamation.
_________________________________
Fred D. Thomas, Mayor of the City of Simi
Valley, California, Chair of the Ventura
County Waterworks District No. 8
________________________________
Lucy Blanco CMC, City Clerk/District Secretary
25 Note: If this is a joint meeting of the City Council and Boards of Directors, the applicable entity is identified at the end of eac h agenda item.
CC – City Council PFA – Public Financing Authority
WWD – Waterworks District No. 8 SA – Successor Agency
IDA – Industrial Development Authority LB – Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees PFFA – Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the CC, WWD, IDA, PFFA, PFA, SA, and/or LB after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA during normal business hours.
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
VENTURA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT NO. 8
Simi Valley, California October 21, 2024
CALLED TO ORDER: 5:30 p.m. (CLOSED SESSION)
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
a. PUBLIC STATEMENTS: Having no public statements, the City Council adjourned to Closed Session at 5:31 p.m.
b. CLOSED SESSION:
(1) Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation (CC) Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1):
Number of Matters: Three (3)
Name of Case: Bruce Boyer v. City of Simi Valley
Case No.: 2:19-cv-00560-R-JPR
Name of Case: Southland Watch v. City of Simi Valley, et al.
Case No.: VCSC 56-2022-00573170
Name of Case: City of Rancho Palos Verdes, et al. v. Rob Bonta, et al LASC Case No.: 22STCP02369; CA Court of Appeal, 2nd Dist. Case No.
B332315
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m. (OPEN SESSION)
CLOSED SESSION REPORTS: City Attorney Ford stated there was no reportable action as a result of the Closed Session meeting held on October 21, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Dwight Thompson
26 Minutes October 21, 2024
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice -Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair
Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
1. AGENDA REVIEW: None
1A. ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem/Vice -Chair Rhodes moved that all resolutions and ordinances presented tonight be read in title only and all further reading be waived.
Council Member/Director Litster seconded the motion. (CC/WWD)
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members /Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1B. It is the policy of the City Council that upon reaching 11:30 p.m., the City Council will not address any new agenda items. Should the City Council continue to address agenda items past 12:00 midnight, the following motion is in order:
MOTION: Move that the City Council meeting tonight may extend beyond the midnight deadline to conclude the agenda (Section 2-1.106 SVMC).
1C. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT: None
1D. CERTIFICATES/HONORARY RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS:
(1) Presentation of a Certificate of Commendation as recipient of the Red Cross Certificate of Merit for saving a life (CC)
Interim Regional CEO of the American Red Cross, Lori Wilson, and Senior Category Manager, GPO Finance of the American Red Cross, Ruilong Ma, read, and Mayor Thomas presented Erin Huey with a Certificate of Merit and Rebekka Armstrong with a Certificate of Extraordinary Action.
(2) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring the week of October 20 through 26, 2024, as Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week (CC)
Environmental Services Director Stratis Perros read and Mayor Thomas presented Code Compliance Manager Jesus Salcido and Code Compliance Office r Mitchell Brewer with a proclamation declaring the week of October 20 through 26, 2024, as Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week.
27 Minutes October 21, 2024
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON APPOINTMENTS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
3. APPOINTMENTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
3A. APPOINTMENTS: None
3B. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
(1) Economic Development Update (Garibay) (CC)
Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay presented the City Council with an Economic Development update.
3C. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Stephanie Wilson, Simi Valley Cultural Commission, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in support of a Simi Valley amphitheater.
2. Anthony Angelini, Director of Tourism for the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Tourism Alliance, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in support of a Simi Valley amphitheater.
3. Jim King, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in support of a Simi Valley amphitheater.
4. Dwight Thompson, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about his concerns regarding the sale of the house in his neighborhood that was used in the movie Poltergeist.
5. Daniel Porter, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about a concern he has regarding a name change on a Quit Claim Deed to the Girls & Boys Club of Hollywood.
6. Joseph Metcalfe, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in support of a Simi Valley amphitheater.
7. Mike Lasher, Simi Valley, CA, requested the City Council’s assistance in understanding why the Boys & Girls Club of Hollywood has filed Quit Claim Deeds on properties in Simi Valley.
The following submitted a speaker card but did not wish to speak:
1. Lisa Roberts, Simi Valley, CA
28 Minutes October 21, 2024
4A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS:
City Manager Samantha Argabrite addressed the Quit Claim Deed issue, stating that staff had communicated with the District Attorney’s Office regarding the matter. She reported that the County Council had approved the recording of the parcels, found that no crime had been committed, and she read a summary of the issue aloud. She also addressed the concerns raised about the sale of the house that was used in the movie Poltergeist. She stated that the Staff is preparing a report for the City Council and commented that many issues pertaining to short -term vacation rentals are often covered by the City’s Code, but the City Council may wish to consider other options.
Council Member Litster requested that the City Attorney comment on the Quit Claim Deed issue. City Attorney Ford explained that this is an issue the City has just learned about this morning, and that both the City Council and the City Manager are not yet in a position to address it. Council Member Litster thanked everyone for their thoughts and comments at the meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes thanked everyone for coming to the meeting and speaking.
He addressed the concerns raised about the Quit Claim Deeds, as well as the sale of the house that was used in the movie Poltergeist. May or Pro Tem Rhodes thanked the speakers who spoke in support of a Simi Valley Amphitheater.
Mayor Thomas commented on the Quit Claim Deed issue and stated that the City Council will pursue it until they receive an answer. He also addressed the concerns raised about the sale of the house used in the movie Poltergeist.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
5A. C onsideration of General Plan Amendment Pre-screening review of GPPS - 2024-0002 (SK Madan), a request to change the General Plan Land Use designation from Recreation Commercial to Industrial for a 3.95- acre Commercially Zoned Parcel, located north of Smith Road and east of Kuehner Drive (Perros) (CC)
Mayor Thomas opened the public portion of the hearing at 7:30 p.m.
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Siki Madan, Simi Valley, CA, Applicant, spoke in support of a change to the General Land Plan Use designation.
Mayor Thomas closed the public portion of the hearing at 7:46 p.m.
29 Minutes October 21, 2024
ACTION: Council Member/Director Judge moved to authorize GPPS-2024- 0002 for further processing as a formal General Plan Amendment.
Council Member/Director Cavanaugh seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
5B. A Public Hearing to consider a request from Stow Villas, LLC, for a Planned Development Permit Modification (PD -S-2024-0004) to revise previously approved elevations and site improvements, a Tentative Map (TT -2024- 0002) to develop 16 condominium units; discharge and release of the Affordable Housing Agreement (AHA -0-51) to eliminate the previously approved affordable housing incentives, for a property located at 5496 East Los Angeles Avenue; determination that the project is exempt from the Calif ornia Environmental Quality Act; and adoption of two resolutions (Perros) (CC)
Resolution No. 2024- 42 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
MODIFICATION (PD -S-2024-0004) TO REVISE PREVIOUSLY APPROVED ELEVATIONS AND SITE IMPROVEMENTS; AND A TENTATIVE MAP (TT -2024- 0002) TO DEVELOP 16 CONDOMINIUM UNITS; FOR A PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5496 EAST LOS ANGELES AVENUE; INCLUDING A DETERMINATION THAT THE
PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
Resolution No. 2024- 43 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING THE DISCHARGE AND RELEASE OF THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING AGREEMENT (AHA-O- 51) FOR THE STOW VILLAS
CONDOMINIUMS, INCLUDING RESCINDING CITY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR
ELIGIBLE BUYERS
Mayor Thomas opened the public portion of the hearing at 7:59 p.m.
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Siraj Aboulhosn, Applicant Representative, spoke in support of a request from Stow Villas for a Planned Development Permit Modification.
The following submitted a speaker card in support of the project but did not wish to speak:
1. Nader Fararji, Applicant
30 Minutes October 21, 2024
Mayor Thomas closed the public portion of the hearing at 8:24 p.m.
ACTION: Council Member/Director Judge moved to adopt Resolution No. 2024- 42, approving Planned Development Permit No. PD-S-2024-0004 and Tentative Map TT-2024-0002; and adopt Resolution No. 2024- 43 approving the discharge and release of Affordable Housing Agreement No. AHA-0-51 with modification to condition A-18 to remove the stone veneer requirement. Council Member/Director Litster seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. CONTINUED PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
6A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS: None
7. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Council Member Litster pulled Consent Item 6 for discussion.
(1) Approval of Monthly Investment Report for the month ended September 30, 2024 (Johnson) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(2) A uthorization to accept funding from California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for Low Carbon Transit Operation Program (LCTOP); authorization for the City Manager to execute the interagency agreement; approval of a Supplemental Budget Request in the Transit Fund (Fund 750, CP75000014), and authorization for the City Manager or designee to approve grant -related documents (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved Supplemental Budget Request.
(3) Approval of a lease agreement with STC One LLC, a Delaware Limited Liability Company, by Global Signal Acquisitions II, A Delaware Limited Liability Company, Its Attorney In Fact, to use the First Street Water Tank Site for a Wireless Telecommunications Facility (Fuchiwaki) (WWD)
ACTION: Awarded contract to STC One LLC.
31 Minutes October 21, 2024
(4) Authorization to to accept funding from California Department of Transportation for Senate Bill 125 funding via the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program and Zero Emission Transit Capital Program; approve a Supplemental Budget Request in the Transit Fund; and authorization for the City Manager or designee to approve and execute grant agreement and subsequent grant -related documents including amendments to the agreement (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved Supplemental Budget Request and approve d agreement with the Ventura County Transportation Commission.
(5) Award of professional services contracts for on-call inspection services, RFQ No.
PW 24-08R (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded contract to Twining, Inc. and Filippin Engineering, Inc.
(6) Authorize issuance of a purchase order to Creative Bus Sales, Inc. for the purchase of four (4) electric replacement paratransit vehicles through California Association for Coordinated Transportation (CALACT) /Morongo Basin Authority (MBTA) Cooperative Contract No. 20-01 M1 (ZEB Van), CP7500010, FAIN: CA- 2022-077-00 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded a contract to Creative Bus Sales, Inc.
(7) Adoption of a resolution authorizing acceptance of $35,300 from the FY 2024-25 State of California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) ABC -OTS Grant programs; authorize the City Manager or designee to sign all grant-related documents; and approve a Supplemental Budget Request of $35,300 in Fund 287 (Shorts) (CC)
Resolution No. 2024- 44 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDS AND
THE EXECUTION OF A GRANT AGREEMENT, AND ANY AMENDMENTS
THERETO, FROM THE FY 2024-25 STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT
OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) ABC-OTS GRANT PROGRAM
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 2024-44.
(8) Adoption of resolution amending the designated positions subject to the Conflict of Interest Code (Blanco) (CC)
Resolution No. 2024- 45 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SIMI VALLEY REGARDING CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODES AND
ADOPTING AND INCORPORATING BY REFERENCE THE FAIR POLITICAL PRACTICES COMMISSION’S STANDARD CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE, AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2022-62
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 2024-45.
32 Minutes October 21, 2024
ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 through 8. Council Member/Director Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. CONTINUED BUSINESS:
8A. Second reading of Ordinance No. 1360 approving a change of zone classification (Z- S-2022-0003) from Commercial Planned Development (CPD) and Residential Medium density (RM) to Residential High density (RH) for property located at 1845 Oak Road; and adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (Perros) (CC)
Ordinance No. 1360 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SIMI VALLEY APPROVING A CHANGE OF ZONE CLASSIFICATION (Z -S-2022- 0003) FROM COMMERCIAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (CPD) AND RESIDENTIAL
MEDIUM DENSITY (RM) TO RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RH) FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 184 5 OAK ROAD; AND ADOPTION OF A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved to adopt Ordinance No. 1360. Council Member/Director Litster seconded the motion:
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
9. NEW BUSINESS:
9A. Request for direction from the City Council on the proposed amphitheater at the Simi Valley Civic Center (Garibay) (CC)
ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved to continue the ad hoc Amphitheater Committee. Council Member/Director Litster seconded the motion:
33 Minutes October 21, 2024
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair Rhodes, and Mayor/Chair Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
10. REPORTS:
10A. City Council/Board Member/Trustees/Special District Member Reports:
Council Member Litster reported she attended the Simi Valley Education Foundation Teacher of the Month Presentation, the Ventura Council of Governments (VCOG) Joint Powers Authority Subcommittee meeting, the VCOG dinner event, and the 20 th
Annual Youth Summit. She also attended the Forever Found – Freedom Gala and the Council On Aging meeting, and served as a speaker at Simi Valley Royal High School. She attended the Youth Council meeting and the League of California Cities three-day conference in Long Beach. Council Member Litster further stated that she attended the Simi Valley Senior Center Arts and Crafts Fair, the Simi Valley YMCA Halloween Gathering, and Trunk or Treat at Strathearn Historical Park.
Council Member Cavanaugh reported that the County has hired a new Director for Ventura County Animal Services . She attended the Simi Valley Police Department Fall Citizens Academy Graduation, the Township Elementary School Trunk or Treat event, and a Simi Valley Rotary Club event.
Council Member Judge reported that he attended the 20th Annual Youth Summit, the League of California Cities 3-day conference in Long Beach, and Relay for Life 2024, where he presented a Proclamation.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes reported that he attended a fundraiser dinner for the Nancy Reagan Breast Cancer Treatment Center Expansion, attended and addressed the Ventura County Leadership Academy, and attended the Clean Power Alliance meeting (remote). He attended the VCOG dinner event, the 20 th Annual Youth
Summit, and participated in a multi-club Rotary Club event that removed trash in the Tierra Rejada Road area. Additionally, he was a speaker at the Simi Valley Seventh- day Adventist Church for their "Government and the Church" series and attended the Forever Found Gala in Westlake. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes stated that he had lunch with the City of Simi Valley City Attorney, Al Ford, and they attended the Madera Elementary School Madera Civics Excellence Award Ceremony. He met with a Council On Aging representative to discuss the Meals on Wheels Program, attended the League of California Cities 3- day conference in Long Beach, and participated in the Simi Valley Senior Center Pancake Breakfast , where he supplied 15 gallons of coffee that he brewed. He also attended a Hurricane Relief Rotary Club fundraiser.
34 Minutes October 21, 2024
Mayor Thomas reported that a Cub Scout group interviewed him, attended a Candidate Forum at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, spoke at the 20th Annual Youth Summit, and attended the Simi Valley Police Department's Fall Citizens Academy Graduation.
10B. City Council/Board Member/Special District Member Requests for Future City Council Agenda Items:
Council Member Cavanaugh confirmed the City Council would be looking into short - term rental policies. City Manager Argabrite stated that staff would bring the issue to the City Council for direction in November.
Council Member Litster requested that Township Avenue be added to the list of roads being repaired. Council Member Cavanaugh seconded.
Mayor Thomas asked if the left turn signals needed to be upgraded at Tapo Street and Alamo Avenue. City Manager Argabrite stated the information would be provided to the City Council.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor/Chair Thomas adjourned the meeting at 9:42 p.m. in memory of Jan Smith, t o the meeting of Nov ember 4, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. There being no objections, the motion carried through acclamation.
_________________________________
Fred D. Thomas, Mayor of the City of Simi
Valley, California, Chair of the Ventura
County Waterworks District No. 8
________________________________
Lucy Blanco CMC, City Clerk/District Secretary
35 Note: If this is a joint meeting of the City Council and Boards of Directors, the applicable entity is identified at the end of eac h agenda item.
CC – City Council PFA – Public Financing Authority
WWD – Waterworks District No. 8 SA – Successor Agency
IDA – Industrial Development Authority LB – Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees PFFA – Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the CC, WWD, IDA, PFFA, PFA, SA, and/or LB after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA during normal business hours.
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Simi Valley, California November 4, 2024
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m. (OPEN SESSION)
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Heather Sumagaysay
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes and Mayor Thomas
Remote: None
Absent: None
1. AGENDA REVIEW: None
1A. ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved that all resolutions and ordinances presented tonight be read in title only and all further reading be waived. Council Member Litster seconded the motion. (CC)
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1B. It is the policy of the City Council that upon reaching 11:30 p.m., the City Council will not address any new agenda items. Should the City Council continue to address agenda items past 12:00 midnight, the following motion is in order:
MOTION: Move that the City Council meeting tonight may extend beyond the midnight deadline to conclude the agenda (Section 2-1.106 SVMC).
1C. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT: None
1D. CERTIFICATES/HONORARY RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS: None
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON APPOINTMENTS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
36 Minutes November 4, 2024
3. APPOINTMENTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
3A. APPOINTMENTS:
(1) Appointment of Special Event Support Review Committee Members (Garibay) (CC)
ACTION: Council Member Litster moved that the Council authorize and the Mayor appoint Laura Hurd, Michael Tirpak, David Kritzer, Stephanie Bunker, and Janet Plant to serve on the Special Event Support Review Committee. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3B. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS: None
3C. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Ela Palma (no address given), YMCA staff member and translator for speaker Mrs.
Margarita, who spoke about the positive experience her children had in the YMCA Safety Around Water Program.
2. Daniel Porter, Simi Valley, CA, spoke regarding the Quit Claim Deed held by the Boys and Girls Club of Hollywood, and provided additional information.
3. Tiaja Jones, Simi Valley, CA, thanked the City Council for the YMCA Safety Around Water Program Grant, and spoke about how the program has benefitted her son.
4. Kimberly Rowlands, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about the need for the City to issue a separate address for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), which is currently not permitted.
37 Minutes November 4, 2024
5. Lisa Roberts, Simi Valley, CA, spoke regarding the Quit Claim Deed held by the Boys and Girls Club of Hollywood and asked for the City Council’s thoughts on the matter.
6. John Lapper, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in opposition to the City Council’s endorsement of Simi Valley Unified School District Board candidates.
7. Gary Mahle, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about the high cost of car registrations for older cars and asked the City Council what steps could be taken to lower the cost.
4A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS:
Council Member Litster thanked all the speakers. She thanked the YMCA for its wonderful programs and expressed her support for the YMCA Safety Around Water Program, as well as addressing the Quit Claim Deed issue. She spoke about the concern of Accessory Dwelling Units needing their own address, and she expressed that not all the Council Members have endorsed candidates in the election. Council Member Litster commented on the cost of car registration, stating that it is a State issue over which the City Council has no purview.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes thanked everyone for speaking and expressed appreciation to those who spoke in support of the YMCA's Safety Around Water Program. He reminded the public that the City Council cannot directly respond to their comments during the meeting, and he suggested that Gary Mahle email his City Council representative regarding his concern about the cost of car registration.
Council Member Cavanaugh thanked everyone for speaking and stated her support for the YMCA's Safety Around Water Program.
Council Member Judge thanked everyone for speaking and giving their opinions and ideas. He recommended that Gary Mahle talk to State Representatives Jacqui Irwin and Henry Stern regarding the cost of car registration.
Mayor Thomas commented on his appreciation to the speakers who thanked the City Council for its support of the YMCA Safety Around Water Program.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
6. CONTINUED PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS, AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
7. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Council Member Litster pulled Consent Item 2 for discussion. 38 Minutes November 4, 2024
(1) Accept the grant award from the State of California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP), ratify the City Manager’s execution of the grant agreement, authorize the City Manager, or designee, to sign all necessary documents, and authorize the Police Department to utilize the funds for traffic enforcement operations and to purchase grant related equipment and supplies (Shorts) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(2) A uthorization to accept funding from the FY 2024 U.S. Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Technology and Equipment Grant Program (TEP), ratify the City Manager’s and Chief of Police’s execution of the grant agreement, authorize the City Manager, or designee, to sign all necessary documents, and authorize the Police Department and Information Services to utilize the funds to purchase and implement a live streaming 9-1- 1 system for the City’s Communications Dispatch Center (Shorts) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(3) Approval of an amendment to the lease agreement between the City of Simi Valley and the California Department of General Services for the property located at 3855-D Alamo Street and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement and any future amendments (Argabrite) (CC)
ACTION: Approved the lease agreement with the Department of General Services.
ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 and
3. Council Member Cavanaugh seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ACTION: Council Member Litster moved to approve Consent Calendar Item 2. Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Litster, Cavanaugh, Judge, Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes, and Mayor Thomas
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
39 Minutes November 4, 2024
8. CONTINUED BUSINESS: None
9. NEW BUSINESS: None
10. REPORTS:
10A. City Council/Board Member/Trustees/Special District Member Reports:
Council Member Litster reported that she attended the Arts Commission meeting, the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Legislative Advocacy Forum, met with a resident, and attended the Ventura Council of Governments (VCOG) meeting. She stated that she attended the California Association of Student Councils Advocacy Conference, served as a judge for the Halloween costume contest at Vista Elementary School, attended the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Fall Street Fair/City Expo, and shared that the Simi Valley Community Orchestra will be performing at the Veteran’s Day Ceremony at Veterans Plaza Rancho Tapo Community Park. Council Member Litster reported that she attended the New West Symphony at Thousand Oaks Kavli Theater, the Swearing-in Ceremony at the Simi Valley Police Department, and an ad hoc committee meeting regarding the Simi Valley Amphitheater Project.
Council Member Cavanaugh reported that she attended the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Fall Street Fair/City Expo, a m emorial service for a Simi Valley resident, and saw the musical Beehive at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. She also shared that tickets are now on sale for the Metro Link Holiday Express Train. Council Member Cavanaugh stated that, unfortunately, she will not be able to attend the Veterans Day Ceremony as she will be out of town.
Council Member Judge reported he attended the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Fall Street Fair/City Expo.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes reported that he attended the Arts Commission meeting, the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce's Legislative Advocacy Forum (held remotely), met with Piccola Tiny Homes (a local business), and had an ad hoc Zoom call with Council Member Litster regarding the Simi Valley Amphitheater Project. He stated that he attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Free Clinic of Simi Valley, a Zoom call with Dignity Moves, Gensler, and the Samaritan Center regarding transitional housing, and the Holid ay Experience Grand Opening at the Simi Valley Town Center Mall.
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes reported that he attended the Swearing-in Ceremony at the Simi Valley Police Department and the ad hoc committee meeting regarding the Simi Valley Amphitheater.
Mayor Thomas reported that he attended the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Fall Street Fair/City Expo, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Free Clinic of Simi Valley, and the grand opening of the Holiday Experience at the Simi Valley Town Center Mall. 40 Minutes November 4, 2024
10B. City Council/Board Member/Special District Member Requests for Future City Council Agenda Items:
Mayor Pro Tem Rhodes requested that a future item be added to discuss creating an ad hoc committee to continue the discussion regarding temporary supportive housing with the Samaritan Center. Council Member Judge seconded.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Thomas adjourned the meeting at 7:25 p.m. in memory of Paula Myers Sheil, to the meeting of November 18, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. There being no objections, the motion carried through acclamation.
_________________________________
Fred D. Thomas, Mayor of the City of Simi
Valley, California
________________________________
Lucy Blanco, CMC, City Clerk
41