ACTION MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA
March 26, 2024
Regular Meeting
GENERAL SESSION
6:30 p.m. - City Council Chambers
CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL - Mayor Rossini called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m.
COUNCILMEMBERS:
PRESENT: Miles, Pitts, Wu (via teleconference), Jones, and Rossini ABSENT: None
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG - The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Pitts.
PRESENTATIONS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / COUNCIL MEETING REPORTS • Presentation - Distinguished Citizen
Lou and Nancy Stremick were introduced and recognized as Distinguished Citizens.
Residents since 1991, they raised four children in Villa Park and are the proud grandparents of 13 grandchildren. The Stremick's are humble and do not seek recognition, however, they were honored for their contributions in both the private and public sector, as well as their volunteer work with the Villa Park Little League, and numerous other organizations in Villa Park and throughout Orange County. They volunteered time and energy and raised more than $100,000 for numerous charities including Children's Hospital of Orange County, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and numerous educational institutions.
• Presentation - American Red Cross
Representatives from the American Red Cross of Orange County thanked the City Council for recognizing "Red Cross Month" which has been celebrated since 1943. The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. And throughout the month of March, they recognize the incredible people who give back through the Red Cross' life saving mission every single day. 90% of our workforce is volunteers.
• Orange County Sheriff's Department
March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Orange County Sheriffs Department (OCSD) Captain AJ Patella provided the monthly law enforcement summary. He encouraged residents to remain vigilant to report any suspicious activity, as it does make a difference. He stated that criminals watch patterns of activity and to also be aware of social media activity, which could alert criminals. He also suggested adjustments to wi-fi systems when away from home, as they can easily be accessed by criminals.
Cary Facer, resident of Villa Park, spoke on behalf of "Moustaches for Kids," a non-profit organization which donates their funds to one local children's charity. In six seasons, they have raised over $650,000. The funds are raised through sponsorships of men to grow their moustaches for thirty days and through other financial donations. Cards highlighting the organization's work were distributed.
• Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA)
Division Chief Wiedensohler provided the monthly summary of fire activity. He reported on the success of the recent open house on March 16, 2024, where over 5,400 members of the public were in attendance. He provided detail noting the safety topic of the month was concerning cooking safety, and that cooking is the leading cause of home fires. OCFA reminds the public to practice safe cooking techniques, particularly with children, and that safe cooking tips are available on the OCFA's website. OCFA also offers assistance with the installation of car seats and information can also be found on the website.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Michelle Berelowitz spoke about the life-saving value of donating blood, and provided a personal story concerning their nephew who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. She encouraged members of the public to consider donating blood if they are able.
Roy Berelowitz announced a blood drive would be taking place at City Hall on May 10, 2024 and also encouraged members of the public to consider donating blood it they are able. He mentioned the Rotary Club and Villa Park Women's League is heavily involved with recruiting volunteers to donate and requested the community's assistance with outreach.
Discussion ensued concerning the ability for the representatives sponsoring the blood drive to secure parking spots for donors in the adjacent parking lot. The City will place the blood drive information on the City feed.
Chad Zimmerman spoke concerning traffic safety in the community, referencing a recent traffic study completed and released March 6, 2024. He referenced various the increase in speeding. He requested replacement of the removed stop signs.
March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Brief discussion ensued concerning the specific intersection and the traffic study conducted, and that the stop signs were removed in consultation with the City's traffic engineers, as part of development of the street project that included Nichols and Serrano.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Waive reading in full of all ordinances and resolutions on the agenda.
City Manager Franks explained the state law requiring the reading of all ordinances and agendas on the agenda for the benefit of the new members on the dais. He explained this vote waives the legal requirement to read items in full and facilitates meeting efficiency.
Mayor Rossini opened the public hearing and public comments. Seeing none, Mayor Rossini closed public comments and the public hearing.
A motion was made by Councilmember Pitts, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Jones, to waive the reading in full of all ordinances, resolutions, and meeting minutes on the agenda, and direct the City Clerk to read each by title only.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1. Walls and Fences Code Amendment
City Manager Franks provided a staff report on the item as detailed in the public agenda report. One piece of written correspondence was read into the record from Dana Reed expressing opposition with "grandfathering in" certain vertical trees and shrubs in front of homes in specific areas of the City and not others. Assistant Planner Justin Urbanski provided detail as listed in the agenda report concerning the differences between the old and new proposed code sections and the removal of ambiguities, typographical errors, and confusing language in the code. A PowerPoint presentation was displayed. Assistant Planner Urbanski stated this was a first reading of the ordinance for introduction and any changes made at this meeting would be reflected in the ordinance language when brought back for second reading and adoption. The City Council could also continue the first reading to a date certain if needed in order to gather additional information, which would avoid needing to publish the public hearing notice again.
Mayor Rossini opened the public hearing and public comments. It was noted that the only written correspondence received was from Dana Reed, and there were no in-person speakers.
March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Council and staff discussion ensued concerning conformance of residences to the three and a half foot height for shrubs, keeping Villa Park's current aesthetic standards, concerns regarding safety and liability, the grandfathering in of certain properties, the clear view zones, the potential negative impacts on the City's code enforcement team if required to measure tree and shrub heights, the potential to continue the public hearing in order to gather additional information, the need to keep the municipal code consistent, the number of inquiries received by the City on height impacts, confirming the City currently does not have such restrictions or require landscape approval plans, including clarifying language which would define what a "wall" is and when other materials are serving as "walls," the potential of having some limitations on height in the interest of privacy, the need to provide minimum access or visuals at a property for public safety needs, the need for further public input and study on this matter prior to consideration of a final ordinance, acknowledging that certain variances were previously denied related to this matter, acknowledging that certain areas of the City, such as more highly trafficked areas, may need to be considered separately, a request for more detail as to which homes any change in the ordinance would potentially impact in the next agenda report, and requesting caution to avoid reversing previous decisions.
A motion was made by Mayor Rossini, seconded by Councilmember Miles, to continue consideration of introduction of Ordinance No. 2024-632 for first reading to a future meeting.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CONSENT CALENDAR (ITEMS # 3 - 11)
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Jones, to approve the Consent Calendar (Item Nos. 3 through 11).
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. February's Cash and Investment Transparency
The City Council received and filed this report.
4. Request approval of City Council Minutes of February 27, 2024 March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
The City Council approved the City Council Minutes of February 27, 2024.
5. 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report
The City Council received and filed the APR for calendar year 2023 and authorized City staff to submit the APR to HCD, and OPR.
6. 2024 General Plan Annual Progress Report
The City Council received and filed the GP APR.
7. Orange County Sheriff Adjusted 2023-24 Contract
The City Council received and filed this item.
8. Out of Area Travel Authorization
The City Council authorized payment of travel expenses for Councilwoman Miles to attend the ACC-OC Advocacy Trip to Sacramento, CA from April 7 - April 9, 2024, as outlined in the attached Travel Authorization Form.
9. Abusive Conduct Policy
The City Council approved the Abusive Conduct Policy and direct staff to incorporate it into our Policy Manual.
10. Notice of Completion - Taft Avenue and Nichols Avenue Cross Gutter and Asphalt Repair
The City Council 1. Accepted the Taft Avenue and Nichols Avenue cross gutter and asphalt repair project from the contractor, Cheloletty Engineering, and 2. Authorized the City Clerk to file and record the notice of completion.
11. Agreement with CCMS, Inc.
The City Council approved and authorized the Mayor to sign the proposed agreement with City Clerk Management Services, Inc.
ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR FOR SEPARATE
CONSIDERATION
NEW BUSINESS
12. Approval of Consultant Contracts for Building & Safety Services and Code Enforcement Services.
March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
City Manager Franks provided a staff report on the item as detailed in the public agenda report. He confirmed the upcoming departure of the City's long-term Building Official, who also performs plan checks and code enforcement duties. Due to the unique nature of the City's needs for the duties, the services were put out to bid, and there were a number of responses received. Detail was provided on the bids, however it was noted there will be an increase overall of $12,000 to the City. There is off-set due to the City no longer carrying benefits or pension liability for the position. Further detail was provided as to the selection of the proposed service provider and the duties they would fulfill in the City.
City Council and staff discussion ensued concerning the various criteria, including proposed costs and rates, used for consideration of the submitted bids.
Mayor Rossini opened public comments. Seeing none, Mayor Rossini closed public comments.
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, seconded by Councilmember Pitts, to:
1. Approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the proposed contract with 4Leaf, Inc., with mutually agreed upon minor changes, to cover March 27, 2024 through March 26, 2029, with two one-year options, for Code Enforcement Services, with a first year Maximum Obligation of $36,000, and a flat 3% annual increase beginning July 1, 2025.
2. Approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the proposed contract with VCA Code, with mutually agreed upon minor changes, to cover March 27, 2024 through March 26, 2029, with two one-year options, for Building & Safety Services, with a first year Maximum Obligation of $115,000, and annual increase subject to mutual agreement by the City Manager and Consultant.
3. Direct staff to revise staff position count and incorporate approved contract amounts in the proposed FY 2024-25 Budget.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
13. NV5, Inc. - Engineering Contract.
City Manager Franks provided a staff report on the item as detailed in the public agenda report. He confirmed this is an existing service provider and their current five-year agreement expires on July 1, 2024. The City has negotiated a proposed new term, including specificity as to consultant personnel that would be assigned and a cap in increases at 3%.
March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Rossini opened public comments. Seeing none, Mayor Rossini closed public comments.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Jones, seconded by Councilmember Pitts, to approve the proposed Five-Year NV5, Inc. contract for Engineering Services, covering July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029, reflecting a 3% hourly rate increase for the first year and another 3% each year thereafter. All other terms and conditions in the contract remain the same.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
14. Street Rehabilitation & Slurry Seal Projects List.
City Manager Franks provided a staff report on the item as detailed in the public agenda report. He noted this is an annual item to provide the City Council with proposed lists of street rehabilitation and slurry seal projects based upon the Pavement Condition Index (PCI). The lists are proposed in priority need order and funding requirements for the overall proposed projects was detailed.
City Council and staff discussion ensued confirming that depending on conditions, the proposed design portion of a specific project could be completed in the current year, with construction commencing approximately July 1, 2025, the bid process for each project phase, confirmation that the streets proposed for slurry seal are on the City's PCI, the various existing conditions of certain streets, and the need for public transparency into the selection of areas for rehabilitation and slurry sealing.
Mayor Rossini opened public comments. Seeing none, Mayor Rossini closed public comments.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Jones, seconded by Councilmember Pitts, to provide direction to staff and receive and file.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
15. CIP Trail Improvements Project Contract Award
March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
City Manager Franks provided a staff report on the item as detailed in the public agenda report. He noted this item is to address specific trail systems which are most damaged due to runoff and other erosion. He provided detail on the types of improvements that would be completed, noting the key is to move away from temporary fixes, and move to improvements that would be longer lasting.
Mayor Rossini opened public comments. Seeing none, Mayor Rossini closed public comments.
A motion was made by Councilmember Pitts, seconded by Councilmember Wu, to Authorize the Mayor to execute the standard public works construction contract agreement with Cheloletty Engineering, Inc., in the amount of $135,000, for the CIP Trail Improvements (DG Repairs) with the option of two-year extensions.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CITY MANAGER REPORT
16. Information from City Manager and/or City Staff.
City Manager Franks provided a report summarizing the information in the publicly noticed agenda report. Items mentioned included working with the Foundation and administrative adjustments to certain zoning as allowed by the municipal code.
There was no 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) - Attended meeting on March 21, 2024. Received presentations on 2024 campaign to increase engagement during California Mosquito Week, the City will share social media posts and other information through its various outlets, to include recognition of National Mosquito Week. Encouraged residents to participate in the friendly competition among various cities in the District, and to tag Villa Park in their postings. Other items discussed at the meeting included potential purchase of a building, computer use policy, and discussion of new facilities. Upcoming events sponsored by the District were announced and information can be found on the District's website and City's Feeder.
Orange County Sanitation District (Councilmember Pitts) March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
- Attended Administrative Committee meeting on March 16, 2024. Reported on discussions related to the two-year budget development process. This year is the 70 anniversary of the District and an open house will be held on June 8, 2024. Toured the new facilities in Fountain Valley and reported on the District's ability to maintain a low employee turnover rate.
Orange County Fire Authority (Mayor Rossini)
No report at this time, meeting will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2024.
Orange County Library Advisory Board (Councilmember Wu) No meeting was held.
Orange Unified School District City Schools Committee (Mayor Pro Tem Jones) No meeting was held
- Congratulated Villa Park High School on receiving the 2023 AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award and acknowledged the retirement of former Villa Park High School softball player Sydney Somerndike's number, noting her numerous accomplishments.
Law Enforcement Advisory Committee (LEAC) (Mayor Rossini and Mayor Pro Tem Jones)
- No meeting was held. Next meeting will be held on July 10, 2024.
Villa Park Community Services Foundation (Mayor Pro Tem Jones) - Meeting was held on February 2024. Reported on discussion related to upcoming events. Announced the success of the volunteer recognition held on March 23, 2024 and congratulated Mark Kuli for receiving the Volunteer of the Year award.
Housing Legislative Committee (Councilmember Miles)
- No meeting held.
Bridges at Kraemer Place Advisory Committee (Councilmember Miles) - Ad hoc by-laws committee held on March 8, 2024. Reported on discussion including revising by-laws regarding removal of members, meeting attendance, and designation of alternates for quorum purposes.
Orange County Older Adults Advisory Commission (Councilmember Miles) A PowerPoint presentation was displayed, which will be placed on the City feeder, providing information including change of the agency's name to Older Adults Advisory Commission, highlighting caregiver and direct services provided, a new mobile app to access services and information, and the Caregiver Resource Center.
Regular Meeting was held on March 8, 2024. Reported on the public hearing concerning the area plan on aging, required to be conducted every four years, the conduct of an assessment survey, and her upcoming attendance at the California Association of Area Agencies on Aging in San Jose, which will be paid for by the external agency. She encouraged the public to download the mobile app.
Additional Councilmember reports:
• Councilmember Wu: Announced attendance at the OCFA open house and tour of their new equipment, League of California Cities meeting, and President Bush presentation at the Richard Nixon Library.
March 26, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
• Councilmember Pitts: Announced attendance at the OCFA open house and tour of their airport fire equipment and Villa Park Little League "Taste of Villa Park" fundraiser.
• Councilmember Miles: Announced attendance at the Villa Park Little League "Taste of Villa Park" fundraiser, tour of the new real-time Sheriff's Orange County Information Assessment Center, which features high technology equipment and resources, League of California Cities Public Safety Legislative Committee meeting in Burbank, and related discussion of various public safety bills including proposed alterations to Proposition 47.
• Mayor Pro Tem Jones: Announced attendance as Principal for the Day at Villa Park Elementary, thanked the school's administration, the OCFA open house and tour of the new equipment, including Southern California Edison's display of the induction cooktop lending program and tool lending programs (information will be placed on City feeder), Orange Unified Public School Foundation's Visual and Performing Arts showcase at Chapman University, and encouraged resident participation in the Villa Park Community Services Foundation. • Mayor Rossini: Announced attendance at Villa Park Little League "Taste of Villa Park" fundraiser and thanked Councilmembers for their attendance at various external committee meetings for the benefit of Villa Park residents.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. to the next regular Council meeting to be held whether in person or via teleconference on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 6:30 p.m.
Vince Rossini, Mayor
City of Villa Park
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.