CITY OF SOUTH PASADENA
CITY COUNCIL - REGULAR MEETING
VIA ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2022 AT 7:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER:
The Regular Meeting of the South Pasadena City Council was called to order by Mayor Cacciotti on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. The City Council Chamber are located at 1424 Mission Street, South Pasadena, California.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT Mayor Michael Cacciotti
Mayor Pro Tem Jon Primuth
Councilmember Jack Donovan
Councilmember Diana Mahmud
Councilmember Evelyn G. Zneimer
ABSENT None
Christina Muñoz, Deputy City Clerk, announced a quorum.
Arminé Chaparyan, City Manager; Andrew Jared, City Attorney; Christina STAFF Muñoz, Deputy City Clerk were present at Roll Call. Other staff members PRESENT: presented reports or responded to questions as indicated in the minutes.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Flag Salute was led by Councilmember Diana Mahmud.
CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Closed Session Announcements
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 A. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: EXISTING LITIGATION
(Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)):
1. Noreen Lim, et al. v. City of South Pasadena (LASC Case No. BC707395)
2. Alison Smith v. City of South Pasadena (LASC Case No. 19BBCV00118) City Attorney Jared reported that Council met in Closed Session to receive a briefing on both items. He noted direction was provided to the City Attorney's Office but no action was taken in closed session.
The City Council recessed closed session at 7:10 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT
2. Public Comment - General
Mayor Cacciotti announced public comments are intended to address matters not on the agenda for the meeting. Members of the public have the option of emailing or participating via Zoom (audio) to address the City Council, as listed on the agenda.
Zoom Public Comment:
Wendy Lee expressed concern regarding a nuisance neighbor on Meridian and the obstructed use of a public right of way.
Noah Kuhn expressed his support for the South Pasadena High School Anti-Bias Club Black Lives Matter Mural at Orange Grove Park.
Yvonne LaRose added to her written public comment to express her support for the South Pasadena High School Anti-Bias Club Black Lives Matter Mural at Orange Grove Park; expressed appreciation for the sundown town resolution that was recently passed.
Lulu Talesnick Lopez expressed her support for the South Pasadena High School Anti- Bias Club Black Lives Matter Mural at Orange Grove Park; expressed appreciation for the sundown town resolution that was recently passed.
John Srebalus expressed his support for the South Pasadena High School Anti-Bias Club Black Lives Matter Mural at Orange Grove Park.
Alexa Morales expressed her support for the South Pasadena High School Anti-Bias Club Black Lives Matter Mural at Orange Grove Park.
Deputy City Clerk Muñoz noted the following written Public Comment was received:
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 Deborah Lutz noted her opposition regarding murals associated with political movements and specifically any that are actively working in opposition to City government.
PRESENTATIONS
3. Pet Adoption
Ryan Meters, Pasadena Humane Society, discussed the process of pet adoption.
COMMUNICATIONS
4. Councilmembers Communications
Councilmember Zneimer shared photos of wind damages at the Arroyo Seco Golf Course; shared photos of graffiti at Garfield Park; shared a photo of no-parking signs for 4-axle trucks on the Meridian Hillside; shared photos of a resident development and dumping on a neighboring property; discussed a recent special meeting of the Public Works Commission.
Councilmember Mahmud discussed a recent Cal Cities Environmental Quality Committee; discussed SB 379, a bill that would create an automated solar permitting system; discussed BizFed's green hydrogen program; discussed a recent meeting of the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) Transportation Committee.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth requested that the City Manager look into the issue of the property mentioned in general public comment; discussed a recent meeting of the Arroyo Verdugo Joint Powers Authority; discussed a recent meeting of the Public Safety Commission; discussed a recent meeting of the Mobility Transportation & Infrastructure Commission.
Councilmember Donovan discussed a recent meeting of the Leased Property Ad-Hoc Committee; discussed the recent restaurant proposals at the Arroyo Seco Golf Course; discussed the batting cages management proposals; discussed the wind damage at the Arroyo Seco Golf Course; discussed a recent meeting of the Finance Commission; discussed the City's upcoming waste collection survey.
Mayor Cacciotti discussed the neighbor nuisance mentioned during general public comment; discussed the Air Quality Management District (AQMD) pollution update; provided an update on the Public Safety Commission's discussion on catalytic converter thefts; shared photos of recent events around the City; shared a photo he took with a Councilmember from the City of Glendale; shared a photo of a resident running; shared a photo of a green lawn mower equipment event; shared a photo of a vaccination and testing site at Holy Family Church; shared a photo of a recent meeting with a company who provides environmental lawn equipment; shared a photo
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 of a charging station in the City; shared a photo of himself having coffee during a meeting with City staff at a local coffee shop.
Moved by Mayor Cacciotti, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Primuth to place the Anti- Bias Club Black Lives Matter Mural on the March 2, 2022 City Council agenda.
5. City Manager Communications
City Manager Chaparyan provided an update on the City's redistricting process and noted public hearings coming up on March 2nd and March 16t; noted that City Hall is closed on Monday for Presidents Day.
Public Work Director Gerber provided an update on the warrant item pertaining to the San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority; he noted the annual payment is over $42,000 and is paid in two installments during the year.
Assistant to the City Manager Binns provided an update on the sundown town resolution and noted that information sessions will be available on zoom on February 22nd and March 22nd.
6. Reordering of, Additions, or Deletions to the Agenda None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
THIS ITEM WAS MOVED OUT-OF-ORDER FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION.
8. THIS ITEM WAS MOVED OUT-OF-ORDER FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION.
CONFIRMATION OF AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH
CITY MANAGER ARMINÉ CHAPARYAN
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the Mayor to sign the amended employment agreement.
10. THIS ITEM WAS MOVED OUT-OF-ORDER FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION.
11. THIS ITEM WAS MOVED OUT-OF-ORDER FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION.
12. THIS ITEM WAS MOVED OUT-OF-ORDER FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION.
Councilmember Donovan requested to pull Item No. 12
Councilmember Zneimer requested to pull Item No. 7, 10 and 11.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 City Manager Chaparyan requested to pull Item No. 8.
Councilmember Donovan requested to pull Item No. 12.
City Attorney Jared provided a summary update pertaining to Item No. 9.
A motion was made by Councilmember Zneimer, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to approve Consent Calendar Item 9 as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0.
CONSENT CALENDAR - AGENDA ITEMS) PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION APPROVAL OF PREPAID WARRANTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $63,206.25; GENERAL CITY WARRANTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $446,016.20;
SUPPLEMENTAL ACH PAYMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $132,496.67; VOIDS IN THE AMOUNT OF ($3,330.00); TRANSFERS IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,031,428.03: PAYROLL IN THE AMOUNT OF $726,424.01
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve the Warrants as presented.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Councilmember Zneimer asked what duties Landcare and West Coast Arborists perform.
Public Works Director Gerber clarified that Landscare performs landscaping/routine work and West Coast Arborists handles tree pruning and planting.
Councilmember Zneimer asked who performs assessments on trees and tree conditions.
Public Works Director Gerber noted West Coast Arborists primarily provides assessments on City trees with City staff also assisting on occasion.
Councilmember Zneimer asked if the warrant request paid to West Coast Arborists was for work that took place in the past month.
Interim Finance Director Louie noted the warrant request includes two different invoices.
Public Works Director Gerber noted that amount of work can fluctuate at any given time depending on the amount of work.
A motion was made by Councilmember Zneimer, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to approve the Item No. 7, as presented.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 Motion carried, 5-0.
AWARD OF CONTRACT TO STUDIO SPECTRUM, INC., FOR VIDEO
PRODUCTION, WEB STREAMING AND ARCHIVING SERVICES IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $53,880 ANNUALLY
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Studio Spectrum, Inc. (Studio Spectrum), to provide video production, web streaming and archiving services through June 30, 2024.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Management Services Director Dermirjian stated changes were included in the additional docs; clarified language in the contract states there's an option to continue the contract for an additional two years.
Councilmember Zneimer inquired about the contract end date.
Management Services Director Dermirjian affirmed the contract includes a termination date and an option to extend the contract for an additional two years.
A motion was made by Councilmember Mahmud, seconded by Councilmember Zneimer and approved by roll call vote to approve the Item No. 8, as amended.
Motion carried, 5-0.
10. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF THE CALRECYCLE SB 1383 LOCAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM APPLICATION
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA, AUTORIZING SUBMITTAL OF AN
APPLICATION FOR THE SB1383 LOCAL ASSISTANCE GRANT
PROGRAM
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute all documents required to obtain the grant.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Councilmember Zneimer inquired about the time period of the contract.
Environmental Services & Sustainability Manager Kasparian stated the 5-year term in the contract is a standard term.
Councilmember Mahmud noted that the 5-year term is appropriate.
A motion was made by Councilmember Zneimer, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to approve the Item No. 10, as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0.
11. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF A NOTIFICATION OF INTENT TO COMPLY WITH SENATE BILL 1383
REGULATIONS
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA, AUTORIZING SUBMITTAL OF A
NOTIFICATION OF INTENT TO COMPLY WITH SENATE BILL
1383 REGULATIONS
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the ubmittal of a "Notification of Intent to Comply" to the State of California epartments of Resources Recycling and Recovery's (CalRecycle) fo
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Councilmember Zneimer inquired about the State target dates to comply with SB 1383.
Environmental Services & Sustainability Manager Kasparian stated the requirement of 75% reduction by 2025 is to reduce the greatest amounts of greenhouse gas emissions.
Councilmember Zneimer stated that the notice of intent to comply is due in March 2022 and asked if this waiver of eligibility is triggered by filing the notice of intent to comply.
Environmental Services & Sustainability Manager Kasparian noted that the timeline is not contingent on the notice of intent to comply.
A motion was made by Councilmember Zneimer, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Primuth and approved by roll call vote to approve the Item No. 11, as presented.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 Motion carried, 5-0.
12. APPROVE UPGRADE OF CLEAN POWER ALLIANCE'S DEFAULT ENERGY OPTION TO ONE HUNDRED PERCENT "GREEN" RENEWABLE ENERGY
FOR THE CITY'S COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve an upgrade of Clean Power Alliance's default energy option for the City's commercial accounts from the fifty percent "Clean" renewable energy option to the one hundred percent "Green"
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Councilmember Donovan expressed concern with the item and noted that he doesn't want to force residents and businesses to enroll in the renewable energy program.
Councilmember Zneimer asked what Councilmember Mahmud's role in the Clean Power Alliance (CPA) and if there is a potential conflict of interest for her to participate in the item.
Councilmember Mahmud noted that she is the City's representative on the CPA and is currently the Chair.
City Attorney Jared noted that there is no conflict of interest for Councilmember Mahmud to participate in the item.
Environmental Services & Sustainability Manager Kasparian made a presentation and provided a quick overview of the item.
Mayor Pro Tome Prit of eir tore retire to recroe of Cornere included Environmental Services & Sustainability Manager Kasparian answered affirmatively and noted that the recommendation was generally well received by the Chamber.
Councilmember Donovan expressed concern with the item and noted that the item feels rushed.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public comment period.
Deputy City Clerk Muñoz noted the following written public comment was received:
The following individuals expressed their support for going to 100% renewable energy:
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 Carolina Gonzalez
Wesley Reutimann
Barbara Ishida
Sandy Lee
Chris Bray expressed concern with the item and noted that the City should not market the Clean Power Alliance to the City.
With there being no other requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
Councilmember Mahmud provided an overview of the history of this item; noted that any Clean Power Alliance customer can opted out of the program; noted that Southern California Edison is increasing their rates in March 2022.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth noted a high level of residential users find the renewable energy appealing; stated businesses might find the program appealing as well; noted that there is time in place for customers to opt out.
Councilmember Zneimer stated some individuals might believe that the City is taking away the business owners ability to opt out; stated that the recommended actions should be revised; stated more public outreach should have been conducted.
Environmental Services & Sustainability Manager Kasparian noted that the City plans to distribute a flyer/mailer to the business community, highlight the changes on social media, and provide additional outreach meetings if necessary.
City Attorney Jared clarified that this item is not rate-setting.
Councilmember Mahmud noted that currently, 93% of the City's commercial customers have opted into the Clean Power Alliance.
A motion was made by Councilmember Mahmud, seconded by Mayor Cacciotti and approved by roll call vote to approve the Item No. 12, as presented.
Motion carried, 4-0-1 (Councilmember Donovan abstaining).
PUBLIC HEARING
13. PUBLIC HEARING TO RECEIVE OBJECTIONS OR PROTESTS TO THE
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM REGARDING THE ABATEMENT
OF WEEDS, BRUSH, RUBBISH AND REFUSE UPON OR IN FRONT OF
SPECIFIED PROPERTY IN THE CITY AND AUTHORIZING BY MINUTE ORDER
THE ABATEMENT OF HAZARDOUS VEGETATION
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council, after holding a Public Hearing and receiving public testimony and hearing any objections or protests to the procedures for abating brush and native vegetation fire hazards identified in Resolution No. 7748, adopt by motion an order directing the abatement of hazardous vegetation.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Fire Chief Riddle made a presentation and provided a quick overview of the item.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public hearing.
With there being no requests to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Councilmember Zneimer asked what kind of weed abatement methods are being used in the City.
Fire Chief Riddle stated hand tools are used and noted no chemicals are utilized.
Councilmember Zneimer asked if the City utilizes goats for weed abatement.
Fire Chief Riddle stated the City previously used goats and are making plans to use them again next year.
A motion was made by Councilmember Mahmud, seconded by Councilmember Zneimer and approved by roll call vote to approve Item No. 13, as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0.
ACTION/DISCUSSION
14. DISCRETIONARY FUND REQUEST FROM MAYOR CACCIOTTI IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,000 AND COUNCILMEMBER ZNEIMER IN THE AMOUNT OF $500 TO ASSIST WITH THE COST OF THE FIREWORKS SHOW FOR THE
FESTIVAL OF BALLOONS EVENT
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve the Discretionary Fund request by Mayor Cacciotti designating $1,000 and Councilmember Zneimer designating $500 to assist with the cost of the fireworks show for the Festival of Balloons event.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Community Services Director Pautsch made a presentation and provided a quick overview of the item.
ity Manager Chaparyan noted an additional document was received for this item whic tated that Mayor Pro Tem Primuth wanted to contribute $500 from his discretionar fund.
Joseph Payne, Festival of Balloons Committee, noted the costs for the fireworks show has gone up from previous years; provided an overview of the event and its theme.
Councilmember Mahmud stated she would like to contribute $500 from her discretionary fund as well.
Councilmember Donovan noted he would like to contribute $500 from his discretionary fund as well.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public comment period.
With no requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Primuth, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to approve the following discretionary fund allocations:
1. Mayor Cacciotti - $1,000
2. Mayor Pro Tem Primuth - $500
3. Councilmember Zneimer - $500
4. Councilmember Mahmud - $500
5. Councilmember Donovan - $500
Motion carried, 5-0.
15. DISCUSSION OF THE ELECTED CITY TREASURER POSITION
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council discuss the position of the elected City Treasurer and provide direction to staff.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Interim Finance Director Louie made a presentation and provided a quick overview of the item.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 Councilmember Mahmud asked for a historical overview of the City Treasurer position and asked if the position was ever appointed.
Interim Finance Director Louie noted that staff researched historical knowledge but was unable to find details on whether it was an appointed position.
Councilmember Mahmud asked if the City Council can set certain standards and qualifications for individuals to run for the City Treasure position.
City Attorney Jared noted that the City Council cannot set certain qualifications for an elected position; stated that he's not aware any previous ballot measures about the City Treasurer position.
Councilmember Mahmud suggested contacting the previous elected City Clerk and City Treasurers for any historical knowledge.
Councilmember Zneimer asked if this change in the City Treasurer position is required to be put on the ballot.
City Attorney Jared answered affirmatively.
Councilmember Zneimer asked when the City Attorney analysis would be available for the potential ballot measure.
City Attorney Jared noted that an analysis could be prepared in time for the next City Council meeting.
Mayor Cacciotti asked if it's common for other cities to have a Finance Commission.
City staff provided backgrounds on their previous agencies.
Mayor Cacciotti asked who determines the stipend of the City Treasurer.
City Attorney Jared stated he believes its determined by City Council action and will look into this matter further.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public comment period.
City Treasurer Pia provided historical background on the City Treasurer position and the Finance Commission.
With there being no other requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
Councilmember Mahmud inquired about the process if the measure does not pass and no candidate files for the position.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 City Attorney Jared stated the City Council can appoint an individual after the election.
Councilmember Mahmud asked if a special election would be required after two years if the City Council appointed someone.
City Attorney Jared noted that he will research the matter.
Councilmembers expressed concern having the elected City Treasurer position on the ballot at the same time as having a ballot measure to make the position appointed.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth stated that having a special election for a potential ballot measure is not cost effective.
Councilmember Zneimer requested more legal research into this issue.
Mayor Cacciotti requested more information on the compensation.
A motion was made by Councilmember Mahmud, seconded by Mayor Cacciotti and approved by roll call vote to table the item until after the November 2022 election in order not to confuse voters and to request legal research and to clarify the South Pasadena Municipal Code section on compensation.
Motion carried, 5-0.
16. MID-YEAR REPORT
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council
1. Increase Estimated Revenues by $758,002 as detailed in Exhibit A;
2. Increase General Fund appropriations by $740,000 as detailed Exhibit A;
3. Increase Special Fund appropriations for Operations and Maintenance by $250,000 as detailed in Exhibit B; and
Increase Capital Improvement Program (CIP) appropriations by $250,000 as detailed in Exhibit B.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Interim Finance Director Louie made a brief presentation and provided a quick overview of the item and changes in the additional documents.
Mayor Cacciotti asked why telephone expenses have increased by $100,000.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022 Interim Finance Director Louie and Management Services Director Dermirjian noted the land line costs have increased due to tariffs but noted that staff is looking into cost saving options.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth asked why plan check fees have increased by $100,000.
Interim Finance Director Louie noted the original amount was under budged and plan check costs are based on the activity in the planning department.
Councilmember Zneimer and Donovan expressed their support for the changes.
Mayor Cacciotti asked if the Finance Commission was in support of all the changes.
Interim Finance Director Louie answer affirmatively.
Councilmember Mahmud thanked the community for passing Measure A, which increased the City's sales tax.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public comment period.
With no requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Mahmud, seconded by Councilmember Zneimer and approved by roll call vote to approve Item No. 16, as presented and amended.
Motion carried, 5-0.
17. REVIEW OF PUBLIC ART PROJECTS AND EXHIBITS
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council:
Review the public art proposals received to utilize the repurposed Civic Center Art Gallery funds; and
2. Direct staff to develop a Public Art Policy to govern the development of both City-commissioned and unsolicited public art in public spaces prior to the implementation of any new public art projects.
Based on the variety of proposals received and locations proposed, staff is recommending that a Public Art Policy be developed by staff and approved by the City Council prior to the award of any public art projects.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Deputy Community Development Director Lin made a presentation and provided a quick overview of the item.
Councilmember Mahmud asked if other agencies have public art policies in-place.
Deputy Community Development Director Lin answered affirmatively.
Mayor Cacciotti asked if other agencies allow public art on public property.
City Attorney Jared stated staff has done preliminary research and general there are cities who have policies that are in the City code that would restrict where murals can go and to address art on private property; he noted that many agencies don't have these policies because many don't do public art.
Councilmember Mahmud asked if staff contacted artists who have submitted proposals.
Deputy Community Development Director Lin noted that staff has not reached out yet but can after the meeting to confirm if they are willing to hold on to their proposals.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public comment period.
With no requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Mahmud, seconded by Councilmember Zneimer and approved by roll call vote to approve Item No. 17, as presented.
Motion carried, 5-0.
INFORMATION REPORTS
18. PUBLIC SAFETY BIENNIAL REPORTS
Presentations of the South Pasadena Police Department (SPPD) and South Pasadena Fire Department (SPFD) Biennial Reports.
This item was moved to the April 6, 2022 City Council meeting.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council February 16, 2022
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further matters, Mayor Cacciotti adjourned the meeting of the City Council at 10:52 p.m., to the next Special City Council meeting scheduled on Wednesday, February 23, 2022.
Respectfully submitted:
Christina Muñoz
Deputy City Clerk
APPROVED:
Much K. Caustti
MICHAEL CACCIOTTI
MAYOR
ATTEST:
Chalente
Christina Muñoz
Deputy City Clerk
Approved at City Council Meeting: 07/20/2022.