ACTION MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA
February 28, 2023
Regular Meeting
CLOSED SESSION
5:30 p.m. - City Council Chambers
CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL - Mayor Pitts called the Closed Session to order at 5:30 p.m.
COUNCILMEMBERS
PRESENT: Rossini, Jones, Miles, Pitts, and Wu
CLOSED SESSION
Public Employee Performance Evaluation
Title: City Manager
Government Code Section 54957 (b)
2. Conference with Labor Negotiators
City Representative: City Attorney
Unrepresented Employee: City Manager
Government Code Section 54957.6
GENERAL SESSION
6:30 p.m. - City Council Chambers
CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL - Mayor Pitts called the General Session to order at 6:30 p.m.
COUNCILMEMBERS
PRESENT: Rossini, Jones, Miles, Pitts, and Wu
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG - The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Pitts.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Litfin reported the City Council met earlier to discuss the two items listed on the Closed Session agenda. There was no reportable action and no further action was taken on this item.
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
PRESENTATIONS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / COUNCIL MEETING REPORTS • Presentation - Distinguished Citizen
Mayor Pitts presided over the recognition of the Distinguished Citizen Rich Ulmer. He commented on Mr. Ulmer's professional career in the health care industry and his personal history, including his service as an elected member of the Villa Park City Council and Community Services Foundation. Mayor Pitts also recognized the significant community service of Mr. Ulmer and his late wife Bev. Mr. Ulmer addressed the City Council and community, thanking the City for the honor and also acknowledging the efforts of other community members. He requested the City Council consider expanding the focus of the Community Services Foundation to include financial assistance to adjacent communities.
• Presentation - Southern California Gas Company
Clarissa Serpas, Public Affairs Manager - Southern California Gas Company (Gas Company), provided an informational update on current services. She congratulated the new City Council. Ms. Serpas acknowledged concerns regarding the high costs of natural gas and reported that a current report states that natural gas prices are continuing to drop. She noted the Gas Company does not set natural gas prices and described the various services and resources it is providing to its customers to address the current financial climate. She spoke regarding the Gas Company's various public education efforts.
Mayor Pitts expressed concern that Gas Company customers were hit with price increases without previous notice and the Gas Company was also currently requesting another rate increase. Mayor Pitts also expressed his concern regarding the perceived lack of forecasting efforts by the Gas Company which ultimately negatively impacts consumers. Ms. Serpas responded, noting several factors, including abnormally low temperatures, impacted service prices and the Gas Company is ramping up their customer notification process. She explained the rate increase process, which is primarily geared toward infrastructure improvements, and acknowledged the awkward timing.
Mayor Pro Tem Rossini concurred with Mayor Pitts' comments and inquired whether the current energy policy of the United States Federal administration impacts the Gas Company's operations. Ms. Serpas spoke regarding the Governor's requirements regarding local storage of natural gas and Mayor Pro Tem Rossini requested she provide additional information to the City Council.
Councilmember Miles concurred with Mayor Pro Tem Rossini's comments noting the Gas Company should do a better job of forecasting items which may impact costs to users.
She finds it unacceptable the Gas Company is requesting a rate increase at this time.
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Pitts requested Ms. Serpas advise the Gas Company of the City Council's comments, particularly regarding the negative timing of the requested rate increase.
Councilmember Wu inquired regarding programs for needy seniors and Ms. Serpas provided additional information regarding programs for seniors, Level Pay program, payment extensions and other programs to assist those in need.
Councilmember Miles inquired whether the Gas Company is providing appropriate outreach to the community to inform them of these programs or waiting until the user contacts them. Ms. Serpas responded she would provide additional detail to the City Council on the Gas Company's outreach efforts. Councilmember Miles suggested that information received on Gas Company programs be placed on the City's news feeds. • Orange County Sheriff's Department
Orange County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) Captain Gary Knutson informed the community he will be retiring from the Department and this will be his last meeting. He thanked the City for the great partnership and commented on his enjoyment of the assignment.
Captain Knutson provided the January 2023 report and noted that burglary and property thefts are the primary impacts to the City. There was a Crime Prevention meeting hosted the previous week which was broadcast on the City's channel and he reminded residents to take steps to protect themselves and their property. Sheriff's deputies responded to 295 calls for service, including 4 burglaries, 1 petty theft, and made 2 narcotics arrests.
Captain Knutson reported there were 17 parking citations, 16 traffic citations, and 30 traffic citations reported by the motor patrol.
Councilmember Miles thanked the Captain for his years of service and commitment to understanding the community.
Mayor Pro Tem Rossini thanked the Captain for his years of service and for always answering his calls.
Captain Knutson acknowledge the unique character of the City of Villa Park.
Mayor Pitts acknowledged the success of the information provided at the recent Crime Prevention meeting. He remarked on the success of the "see something, say something" motto and encouraged residents to continue that practice.
Captain Knutson introduced Captain AJ Patella who will be assuming the position as the City's liaison with the Sheriff's Department. Mayor Pro Tem Rossini also acknowledged and introduced incoming Captain Patella and provided a summary of his professional law enforcement career, highlighting his significant efforts in the Behavioral Health Bureau.
Captain Patella described the regional efforts of the Behavioral Health Bureau and also February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
his previous service in the City of Villa Park. He offered his congratulations to Captain Knutson on his upcoming retirement.
• Orange County Fire Authority
Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Chief Scott Wiedensohler reported that OCFA has responded to 36 incidents since the last meeting, and acknowledged the recent impacts of the inclement weather in the region. OCFA units were poised to respond in the event of weather-related incidents and CalOES provided reimbursement for those preparation efforts. OCFA is focusing on "Exit Drills in the Home" as the safety educational effort for the month. There are many videos and educational resources available to support preparation of residential plans at OCFA.org. He encouraged residents to close doors upon exiting as a fire prevention measure.
Chief Wiedensohler invited the community to the OCFA Open House event on Saturday, March 4, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Councilmember Miles confirmed the Open House event will be held "rain or shine" at this time, but it may be amended by inclement weather.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no general public comments submitted.
3. Waive reading in full of all ordinances and resolutions on the agenda.
The City Manager explained the state law requiring the reading of all ordinances and agendas on the agenda for the benefit of the new members of the dais. He explained this vote waives the legal requirement to read them.
Mayor Pitts opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, the public hearing was closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rossini, to waive the reading in full of all ordinances, resolutions, and meeting minutes on the agenda, and direct the City Clerk to read by title only. The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. Variance No. 2023-02 at 10522 Beardsley Circle
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Planning Assistant Urbanski provided a staff report on the item as detailed in the agenda report. Five letters of support were received on this item. Staff is recommending approval of this variance because the north rear property line serves as a side property line and yields a large 25-foot building setback. The existing house also heavily encroaches into the required setback area and these conditions make constructing into the single-family dwelling very difficult absent the requested variance.
Mayor Pitts opened the public hearing.
Mayor Pitts confirmed with staff there were five letters of support and no letters of opposition submitted for this item.
Councilmember Jones confirmed with staff that the City considers this property to have two rear setbacks.
Councilmember Miles thanked the property owners to pursue this process in the appropriate manner and acknowledged the property owners' efforts to engage with their adjacent neighbors. Mayor Pro Tem Rossini also acknowledged the property owners' efforts to engage with their adjacent neighbors in the appropriate manner.
Mayor Pitts closed the public hearing
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rossini to approve Variance No. 2023-02. The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
5. Variance No. 2023-03 at 9531 Las Flores Circle
Planning Assistant Urbanski provided a staff report on the item, including a timeline of the events leading up to the request for the variance. Three letters of opposition were received on this item. Staff is recommending approval of this variance as the existing house is legal non-confirming which makes it very difficult to construct additions due to the large setback encroachments. The additions will not perpetuate the legal non- conforming conditions, but rather set them back further from the property lines compared to where the house sits currently. The property is unique in that it is odd-shaped which impacts the buildable pad.
Mayor Pitts opened the public hearing.
Planning Assistant Urbanski summarize the three letters of opposition submitted for this item, as noted below.
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
(Name illegible on letter, no property address provided) expressed opposition to the approval of this variance, citing it would set a negative precedent.
Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, 19022 Canyon Drive, expressed opposition to the variance, citing concerns regarding privacy impacts to their own residence and home value.
Gary McArthur, 19014 Canyon Drive, expressed opposition to the variance, citing concerns regarding privacy impacts to their own residence and home value.
Mayor Pitts confirmed with staff the existing house is a two-story structure and there will be an addition to the rear of the property which, due to the orientation, partially fronts Las Flores.
Jim Fruth, 22-year resident and property owner on Las Floras, expressed concerns with the precedent approval would set as the property includes eight additional bathrooms and referred to the negative impacts of ADU's and multiple occupancy lots in the community. He confirmed he is not against the proposed setbacks, but expressed concerns with the number of cars, between 2 and 8, which are parked there each night.
Councilmember Miles thanked the speaker for his attendance and inquired whether the applicant or homeowner contacted him directly about the project or did he hear about the project through the City's public notice. Mr. Fruth confirmed he was not contacted by the applicant or homeowner and was informed through the City's public notice. He requested the City enforce any non-compliant activities at the home if the variance approval is granted.
Tom Wu 9551 Las Flores, stated he is the resident of the house immediately behind the subject property. He expressed concerns about the 8 cars regularly parked on the property and potential of a large number of individuals living at the subject property as the result of the variance.
Councilmember Miles inquired whether the applicant or homeowner contacted him directly about the project or did he hear about the project through the City's public notice. The speaker confirmed he was not contacted by the applicant or homeowner and was informed through the City's public notice.
Mayor Pitts confirmed with City Manager Franks that applicants or homeowners requesting variances are not required to contact their adjacent neighbors, however, City staff strongly encourages applicants to do so.
Darrin Jackson, 10922 Canyon Drive, stated he resides in the home right behind the subject property and confirmed no one came to speak to him about the proposed project. He expressed significant concerns regarding his privacy, given his public profile, and states he did not want to move, but would consider it if his privacy was breached.
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Dan Weng, design architect representing the applicant, stated the owner is currently renting the house out, that it will have 8 bathrooms, and is intended for only one person once completed. The whole property will be covered with ficus trees and the owner takes privacy seriously, and this is not intended to be a party house or multi-family residence. The owner is moving from a different city to Villa Park and stated that even after the addition is completed, there will be tall trees placed that block property. Last, the backyard is quite far away from the neighboring property.
Mayor Pro Tem Rossini confirmed with Mr. Weng the current home is approximately 4,156 square feet and will be approximately 7,000 square feet upon completion of construction. Mr. Weng also confirmed the construction as proposed could not be completed without the variance. The owner specifically did not split the lots to ensure privacy and does not plan have additional structures, such as ADU's, on the combined lot.
Upon a request from Mayor Pro Tem Rossini, Mr. Weng confirmed the owner would submit written confirmation of placement of the ficus trees to reassure the adjacent neighbors' privacy. Mayor Pro Tem Rossini expressed his concerns that the owner has not approached the City Council or neighbors about the proposed variance. He confirmed it was not a requirement, however the transparency would be appreciated by the Council and community. Mayor Pro Tem Rossini stated he is not currently in favor of supporting the variance as proposed, but would consider a continuance of this item to allow the owner to conduct additional outreach to the Council and adjacent neighbors.
Mayor Pro Tem Rossini made various suggestions to Mr. Weng as to outreach that can be conducted on this proposed project, including the placement of story poles.
Councilmember Jones requested additional information regarding the proposed landscaping. Mr. Weng stated the owner is interested in preserving not only his own privacy but also the privacy of the adjacent neighbors. He could submit a full rendering of the proposed project and landscaping for the City Council's consideration. City Manager Franks confirmed the City Council could impose conditions of approval on the variance as related to landscaping.
Councilmember Jones inquired whether the proposed design appears to be for a multi- family residence or something similar to a dorm. Planning Assistant Urbanski stated the submitted design appears to be for a single-family residence.
Councilmember Miles acknowledged Mr. Weng's previous design work in other cities.
Mr. Weng confirmed he had also designed residential projects in Villa Park.
Councilmember Miles responded that Mr. Weng should have been aware of developers' historical practice in Villa Park to reach out to the Council and adjacent neighbors to receive feedback prior to appearing before the Council at a meeting. She stated she is currently opposed to the project as submitted, and would entertain a continuance so that the owner could conduct further community outreach. She confirmed that although February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
outreach is not required, she strongly supports the practice especially when it is strongly suggested to the applicant by City staff.
Councilmember Wu confirmed with staff that this owner is requesting a variance for the construction on the second floor. He suggested the owner conduct outreach in order to receive feedback from the adjacent neighbors and requested the Council consider a continuance on this item. Mr. Weng confirmed the owner would be willing to attend a future Council meeting, however he did note the owner was very private.
Councilmember Miles inquired as to how Mayor Pitts was able to visit the property. Mr.
Weng confirmed Mayor Pitts contacted him and Mayor Pitts affirmed he toured the property and reviewed the plans. Mayor Pitts stated the proposed construction will likely enhance the property values in the adjacent area. He also suggested that additional outreach by the owner to the Council and neighbors would be appreciated.
Councilmember Miles stated she relies very much on the adjacent neighbors' opinions on proposed projects and inquired whether the Council could require the placement of story poles as a condition prior to approval of the project. City Attorney Litfin stated placement of story poles is a common practice in other communities although not required by the City's Code. However, the Council could suggest it as a strong recommendation to the owner. Mr. Weng confirmed the project is not going to increase the height of the structure.
City Attorney Litfin explained the variance process exists to address property modification requests that may not ordinarily be allowed by the City's Code, but are sometimes necessary to address matters on odd-shaped lots or due to other extraordinary impacts to construction. He did stress the variance process ensures there is not a deleterious impact to neighboring properties due to the proposed variance. Mr.
Weng stated the owner also owns the adjacent lot which provides an additional privacy buffer to the neighboring property owners.
Councilmember Wu restated his desire to forward a motion to continue this item to allow the owner to conduct additional outreach to the Council and adjacent neighbors. He commented that the owner submitted a statement allowing the architect to represent him, therefore not requiring the owner to have to attend the Council meeting.
Mayor Pitts restated the motion including the suggestion that the applicant strongly consider the placement of the story poles.
A motion was made by Councilmember Wu, and seconded by Councilmember Jones, to continue this public hearing to a date certain of March 28, 2023. The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CONSENT CALENDAR (ITEMS # 6 - 12)
Councilmember Miles requested Item Nos. 7 and 8 be pulled for separate consideration.
Mayor Pitts opened public comments. There being no speakers, public comments were closed.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Rossini, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to approve Item Nos. 6, 9, 10, 11, and 12 on the Consent Calendar. The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. January's Cash and Investment Transparency.
The City Council received and filed the report
9. Villa Park Community Services Foundation Appointments The City Council, as Member of the Foundation, appointed Eric Handorf, Barbara Perez, and Chad Zimmerman for two-year terms expiring January 31, 2025.
10. New File Service and Domain Controller Server
The City Council approved the purchase of a new file server and domain controller.
11. Change Order #1, 2, and 3 / Engineering Design for FY 2022-23 Annual and Cerro Villa Drive Street Rehabilitation Projects
The City Council approved the change order #1, 2, and 3 for FY 2022-23 annual and Cerro Villa Drive street rehabilitation projects in the amount of $16,176.00 to include additional work
12. East Cerritos Villa Drive Rehabilitation Project/Cooperative Agreement The City Council:
L Approved the "Cooperative Agreement between the City of Villa Park and City of Orange for Funding and Construction of the East Cerro Villa Drive Rehabilitation Project from Serrano Avenue to Loma Street", and
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Authorized the Mayor to execute the Cooperative Agreement.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR FOR SEPARATE
CONSIDERATION
7. Request approval of City Council Minutes of January 24, 2023 This item was removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of Councilmember Miles. She requested correction of a name under her Committee report.
Mayor Pitts opened public comments. There being no speakers, public comments were closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rossini, to approve the City Council Minutes of January 24, 2023, as amended. The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. Amendment to Law Enforcement Advisory Committee
This item was removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of Councilmember Miles. She stated that previous action was to list the two appointed Councilmembers as "member" and "member," which creates a problem as neither is determined to be the primary for reporting purposes. She also stated there was overwhelming support to retain Mayor Pro Tem Rossini as a delegate to the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee. She forwarded a motion to amend the listing to determine a primary and an alternate member on the Committee.
City Manager Franks suggested the resolution be amended to designated "one primary member and one alternate member" for the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee. He stated this action would not determine which particular Councilmember serves as primary or alternate. Councilmember Miles affirmed members of the community requested clarity as to whom would be serving as the primary delegate so they would know to whom to address their questions and who would be providing the public report.
Mayor Pitts suggested the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee decide which of the two appointed Councilmembers serves as primary or delegate.
Mayor Pitts opened public comments. There being no speakers, public comments were closed.
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rossini, to approve amended Resolution No. 2023-3567, with the language for the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee appointments to include that of the two members appointed one will serve as primary and the other as alternate, with direction that the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee will make the specific determination of primary and alternate on an annual basis, and to correct any typographical errors, as needed.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NEW BUSINESS
13. Support of SB 44 (Jones and Miles)
City Manager Franks reported that both Councilmember Jones and Miles contacted him to request a City letter of support for SB 44 and the matter was placed on the agenda for City Council consideration. He opened the floor to the Councilmembers for further discussion.
Councilmember Jones summarized the proposed legislation which requires a mandated advisory or admonishment to be sent to those who are convicted of fentanyl-related drug offenses. Councilmember Miles further summarized this proposed legislation would facilitate the ability of local law enforcement to charge an individual with murder or other charges if they are found culpable of fentanyl drug offenses which result in death or other health and life impacts. Mayor Pitts concurred on this matter.
Mayor Pitts opened public comments. There being no speakers, public comments were closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to authorize the Mayor to sign a letter of Support for SB 44. The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
14. Advertisement for Construction of FY 22/23 Street Rehabilitation Project February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
City Manager Franks provided a report, cited the inclusion of the identified streets, and that staff planned the project timeline in consideration of school calendars.
Mayor Pitts opened public comments. There being no speakers, public comments were closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Jones, seconded by Councilmember Wu, to:
Approve plans and specifications for the "FY 22/23 Street Rehabilitation Project"; and
2. Authorize the staff to advertise the project for construction.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Rossini
15. Slurry Seal Project List
City Manager Franks provided a report, cited the inclusion of the identified streets, and noted there is a significant difference in price as compared to repaving.
Mayor Pitts opened public comments. There being no speakers, public comments were closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Jones, seconded by Councilmember Wu, to:
1. Direct staff to receive and file the report with no amendments; and Authorize City staff to advertise the project for completion.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Jones, Miles, Rossini, Wu, and Pitts
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CITY MANAGER REPORT
16. Information from City Manager and/or City Staff.
City Manager Franks reported certain vehicles in the City fleet have been replaced with electric vehicles paid for with AQMD funds. He also reported staff is fully engaged with February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
HCD regarding their most recent set of questions related to the City's proposed Housing Element update and projects the City will be able to respond by the end of March in satisfaction of HCD's requirements. The Council will be then presented with the finalized Housing Element update proposal for their review and consideration before final submission to HCD.
City Manager Franks also cautioned members of the public to be mindful of downed trees during the inclement weather.
Mayor Pitts acknowledged the dedicated work of City Manager Franks and that he is an asset and resource to the Council and community.
There was no further action taken on this item.
MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBER MATTERS
17. Individual Councilmember Information Items
• Councilmember meeting attendance reports:
• Orange County Mosquito & Vector Control District (Councilmember Miles) • The February Board meeting typically includes new member orientation items such as historical review of the agenda and a Brown Act refresher
• A three-year labor contract was approved; although she was not in support of the length of the contract, she was in support of other items that were voted upon.
The District reminds community members to be mindful of ticks as they utilize regional recreational and other resources
Orange County Sanitation District (Mayor Pitts)
• Rob Thompson is the new General Manager; he met with him and is impressed with his accomplishments
This District will now be meeting in-person
• There will be the first reading of the sewer improvement rate upgrade and noted 550,000 users received notices
• He was appointed to the Administrative Committee
• Orange County Fire Authority (Mayor Pro Tem Rossini)
• He was humbled to be selected as Vice Chair of the Board • Contractual matters are still pending and he will provide a report once they are concluded
• The "snowball" savings plan has benefitted taxpayers greatly and ensures OCFA is well-funded to provide safety services; he attended the February 8 Budget and Finance Committee where the impacts inflation was discussed
He attended the February 23d Board of Directors and Executive Committee meeting
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
• Orange County Library Advisory Board (Mayor Pitts)
Reported no meeting was held
Orange Unified School District City Schools Committee (Councilmember Jones)
• Reported no meeting was held
. Thanked residents for attending the Villa Park High School Showcase; there will be another opportunity to tour the new Science Building if residents are interested during the upcoming Open House • The driveway to Villa Park High School on Santiago will now be exit- only starting March 6; questions should be directed to the School District; City Manager Franks noted the City is aware of the project which will address impacts of water flooding
• Law Enforcement Advisory Committee (LEAC) (Mayor Pro Tem Rossini and Councilmember Jones)
• Mayor Pro Tem Rossini reported the February 8 meeting included review of crime statistics, although the City is in a good place; Sheriff's Department is doing a great job
Neighborhood Watch is up to 212 participants
New items under consideration include installation of license plate readers and support for SB 44; He acknowledged the efforts of Councilmembers Jones and Miles in this regard
Councilmember Miles mentioned three business owners offered to write letters of support for the automated license plate reader program. Mayor Pitt suggested the LEAC consider a process for financial support from external parties for the license plate reader program.
City Manager Franks commented that other cities are considering such programs and Mayor Pro Tem Rossini commented on the success of the programs in Yorba Linda and Los Alamitos. City Attorney Litfin referenced a report he had written on the matter which can be circulated for Council review. He affirmed Councilmember Miles' inquiry that the Yorba Linda City Council unanimously approved their license plate reader program. • Villa Park Community Services Foundation (Councilmember Wu) • Thanked legislators for recent certificates presented for Lunar New Year programs
• Upcoming events and planning include: March 25, 1pm - Persian New Year celebration, April 22nd - Earth Day celebration and e- waste/shredding event, Fourth of July parade and Concerts in the Park, proposed April 15'h - Easter Egg event
Councilmember Miles inquired about the Foundation's planning for the Winter Wonderland event. Councilmember Wu confirmed it would be discussed at next month's meeting. Councilmember Miles reminded the Council that the City agreed to fund $7,500 and the Foundation would fund $5,000 for this year's Winter Wonderland event and then the Foundation would take over the event in the following years. She requested whether the Foundation is planning on conducting the full 2023 event.
February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Jones stated her recollection was there was no formal commitment from the Foundation they would take over the event in upcoming years, citing the Foundation's concerns a year ago about the expense. She recollected the Foundation made a $5,500 contribution toward a 2023 event.
Councilmember Miles clarified that it was an understanding the Foundation would be the lead for any future Winter Wonderland events, and confirmed there was no final commitment from the Foundation in that regard. She expressed support for the Foundation to consider some form of the Winter Wonderland event in upcoming years.
Councilmember Wu stated he would provide this input to the Foundation at their next meeting, although his understanding was that he, as the Council's liaison, did not have a vote on the matter. Councilmember Miles confirmed the Council liaison (Councilmember Wu) does have a vote on the Foundation, however the City Manager does not. She further stated she can confirm the voting authority with the Foundation Secretary and provide Councilmember Wu with a copy of the Foundation by-laws.
Housing Legislative Committee (Councilmember Miles)
• No meeting was held
• Bridges at Kraemer Place Advisory Committee (Councilmember Miles) No meeting was held
• Senior Citizens Advisory Committee (Councilmember Miles) • Broad presentation was given on services provided by Office of Aging and Orange County Community Services; information can be placed on City's website
Additional Councilmember reports:
Councilmember Jones: Attended critical incident preparedness forum (Association of California Cities - Orange County).
Councilmember Wu: Attended critical incident preparedness forum (Association of California Cities - Orange County).
Mayor Pro Tem Rossini: Attended crime prevention forum (Sheriff's Department) and Villa Park High School baseball game.
City Manager Franks reminded residents not to park in the red zone on Serrano as the Sheriff's Department will be conducting enforcement and issuing tickets. Local school district administration also requested residents clean up after their pets if they are walking them on school fields and property.
Mayor Pitts: Attended the City Selection Committee meeting and voted on the OC Parks and LAFCO representative appointments; attended Don Wagner's re-election February 28, 2023 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
announcement, met with Troop 850 to discuss role of City government; hosted Serrano school students on a City Hall tour.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:03 p.m. to the next regular Council meeting to be held whether in person or via teleconterence on luesday, March 2o, 2023.
City of Villa Park
ATEST. U
Steve Franks, City Clerk
City of Villa Park
Note: The above minutes are a summary of actions. A DVD recording of this meeting additionally serves as an official record and is available upon request from City Hall.