ACTION MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA
November 19, 2024
Regular Meeting
GENERAL SESSION
6:30 p.m. - City Council Chambers
6:30 p.rO ORDER/ ROLL CALL - Mayor Rossini called the General Session to order at
COUNCILMEMBERS
PRESENT: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
ABSENT: None
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG - The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Chief Scott Wiedensohler.
PRESENTATIONS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / COUNCIL MEETING REPORTS • Orange County Sheriff's Department
Orange County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) Captain AJ Patella provided the monthly aw enforcement report. He noted the overall call volume for services had decreasec significantly with only two isolated incidents involving crimes against individuals. He congratulated Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Division Chief Scott Wiedensohler on his upcoming retirement.
• Orange County Fire Authority
Division Chief Wiedensohler thanked Captain Patella for his remarks, reflecting on on their collaboration during Operation Independence. He provided the monthly summary of fire activity. He referenced a tragic construction accident at Villa Park High School, resulting in a fatality. He commended the response teams from OCFA, OCSD, and the City of Orange for their exceptional handling of the incident. Special recognition was given to the Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) volunteers who provided support and comfort to construction workers, family members, and others affected by the incident.
Division Chief Wiedensohler urged residents to visit the OCFA website for safety tips, particularly regarding fire prevention during holiday cooking. He reflected on his tenure as the division chief serving Villa Park for the past two years and expressed gratitude for the collaboration and support experienced, acknowledging the efforts of all involved in preserving the City's excellence. He introduced his successor, Division Chief Kevin November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Fetterman, speaking highly of his qualifications and experience, including his roles as an incident commander, Division Chief, and leader in emerging technologies.
Mayor Pro Tem Jones took the opportunity to thank OCFA and the OCSD for their response to the recent incident at Villa Park High School. She noted how encouraging it was to see various agencies come together during such a tragic event. She expressed deep appreciation for the TIP volunteers who provided vital support, as well as the OCSD for offering counseling services to staff, students, and workers on campus. She acknowledged the resources provided by the Orange Unified School District and the Orange Police Department. She expressed appreciation to School Resource Officer Sean McDermott, one of the first responders to the scene. She conveyed the City Council's sincere condolences to the family of the individual who lost his life in the incident. She addressed a rumor circulating at Villa Park High School, clarifying that the second worker involved had not passed away and had been discharged from the hospital. • Villa Park Library
Kristina Jones, Branch Manager, shared updates on upcoming programs, including turkey crafts available next Monday and Tuesday, with take-home kits for those unable to attend.
She announced that a new recipe exchange program will take place on Saturday, December 7, at 2:00 p.m., encouraging community connection through shared recipes, which will be compiled into a recipe book. She announced that the In-N-Out Burger Cover- to-Cover program has been extended, allowing children to claim free burger certificates.
She noted that a bilingual Spanish story time will be held on Wednesday, December 4, at 3:30 p.m., welcoming all ages. She noted the turkey craft is best suited for children ages four to ten with assistance. She agreed to send promotional materials for the recipe exchange and assured recipe books would be available at City Hall for those unable to attend.
• Distinguished Citizen - Robert Collacott
Mayor Rossini honored Robert "Bob" Collacott as a Distinguished Citizen of Villa Park, recognizing his service as a former mayor, councilmember, and resident since 1981. He highlighted Mr. Collacott's tenure on the council from 2014 to 2022, leadership in public works and water quality, and cost-saving contributions that benefited the city and taxpayers. Among his achievements, Mr. Collacott founded the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee, coordinated disaster relief during the 2017 Mesa Henderson storm drain collapse, and secured FEMA funding. He championed key initiatives such as hiring City Manager Steve Franks, creating the Distinguished Citizen Award, transferring surplus parcels to reduce costs, and developing rezoning strategies to meet state housing mandates while preserving community integrity. He also prioritized infrastructure, safety, and school traffic solutions, including improvements to Villa Park High School's Science Center design.
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Pat Buttress, a representative for Orange County Chairman Don Wagner presented Mr.
Collacott with further accolades, emphasizing pride in his service and his lasting impact on the community.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mayor Rossini reviewed the rules of decorum.
Mayor Rossini opened public comments.
Ed Carter introduced the 2024 Villa Park Dryland Boat Parade, themed "Snow Much Fun." and noted that the 26th annual event will take place on Sunday, December 15, beginning at 5:00 p.m. in front of Villa Park High School. He advised that the event is sponsored by the Villa Park Community Services Foundation and encouraged residents to participate by decorating unique crafts for the award competition or organizing neighborhood gatherings. He reported that registration forms, maps, and additional details are available on the foundation's website and at City Hall with an entry fee of $20. He referenced the upcoming Santa Tour on December 7 and announced the selection of the Grand Marshals for the 2024 Boat Parade, Elizabeth Ussher and Robbie Pitts. He noted the couple was recognized for their significant contributions to the community, including feeding peace officers, organizing events like the Halloween Fest, and consistently participating in the boat parade, earning awards for six consecutive years.
Alexander Tran, a student board member of the Orange Unified School District, provided updates on Villa Park High School activities. He noted the visit from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation team, with the school aiming to renew its six-year accreditation. He announced changes in district leadership, with Ernie Gonzalez stepping down as Superintendent and Michael Christensen serving as interim. He thanked Trustees Rumsey and Vice President Ortega for their years of service to the Orange Unified School District. He shared updates on a mandatory e-bike safety meeting, the upcoming school play Animal Farm, and praised drama teacher Ms. McBride for her efforts. He concluded by acknowledging the swift emergency response to a recent construction incident at the high school and offered condolences to the family of the young man who lost his life.
The City Council observed a moment of silence in remembrance of the young man who lost his life in the construction incident and to honor his family.
Mayor Rossini closed public comments.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
L 1. Waive reading in full of all ordinances and resolutions on the agenda.
Alyssa Eazell, Senior Management Analyst, presented a brief staff report.
November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Rossini opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, the public hearing was closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Miles, seconded by Mayor Rossini, and approved by the following roll call vote, 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.
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Tentative Parcel Map (TPM) 2024-127 Continuation - A request to subdivide a single parcel of land that is 94,225 square feet (2.163 acres) into four (4) parcels of land (Parcel 1: 20,000 square feet (0.459 acres), Parcel 2: 20,857 square feet (.479 acres), Parcel 3: 20,000 square feet (.459 acres), and Parcel 4: 20,927 square feet (.480 acres), and to construct a new 12, 441 square foot (.286 acres) private cul-de-sac street, for the purpose of constructing future single-family dwellings on each parcel.
Ms. Eazell reported that the applicant requested the item be moved to the December 17, 2024 City Council meeting.
Mayor Rossini opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, the public hearing was closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Pitts and seconded by Councilmember Miles, to approve continuing Tentative Parcel Map (TPM) 2024-127 to the December 17, 2024 City Council meeting.
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
3. Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 2024-02 - 10181 Center Drive Justin Urbanski presented an application from Lindsey and Stephan Daugherty for property improvements in the E-4 zoning district. He noted the proposal includes a detached garage with a 24-foot, 8-inch second-floor workshop featuring soundproofing and matching the residence, connected to the accessory dwelling unit. He reported that structures over 15 feet require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) per the Villa Park Municipal Code. He noted that the applicants cited flood concerns, utility lines, setbacks, and driveway layout as justification. He reported that public notices were posted, with no comments received. He recommended approval, noting the project aligns with neighborhood patterns, has no adverse impacts, and raises no environmental concerns.
Councilwoman Miles raised a question regarding a potential window issue.
Stephan Daugherty confirmed that the window had been removed from the design following discussions with the architect and city staff. He provided additional remarks, expressing appreciation for the City Council's consideration and describing the project in detail. He explained that the new garage would replace the existing carport and that the workshop on the second floor would be used for woodworking. He emphasized efforts to minimize noise and comply with City standards. He described outreach efforts to inform neighbors about the project. He noted that the neighbor to the north supported the project and had requested the removal of the window, which was addressed. He noted the adjacent property to the west is under renovation and owned by an LLC, making it difficult to reach the owner. Another nearby resident expressed support for the project, while letters left at other homes had not received responses. He mentioned plans to renovate the accessory dwelling unit to create an accessible living space for his wife's elderly parents, who intend to move in as soon as possible due to health concerns.
Councilmember Miles commended the Daugherty's for their thoughtful approach, describing the project as a "labor of love" and noting the iconic nature of their home. She expressed appreciation for their efforts to engage neighbors and maintain the property's historic character.
Mayor Pro Tem Jones echoed Councilmember Miles's sentiments, recognizing the property's landmark status and the effort involved in designing the new structure to align with the existing home.
Mayor Rossini opened the public hearing.
Stephen Ashley spoke in favor of the project. He and his wife, Risa Scott, reside at 10182 Squire Circle, which is located near the Daugherty's property. He expressed delight that the Daugherty's had purchased the historic property and were working to enhance its usability while respecting its character. He supported the construction of the garage and workshop, noting the positive impact it would have on the neighborhood.
November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
With no further public comments, the hearing concluded.
A motion was made by Councilmember Wu, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Jones, to find that the project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Control Act (CEQA), per Section 15303, New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, Class 3; and approve Conditional Use Permit (CUP) No. 2024-02, subject to the Conditions of Approval provided in Exhibit "A" of Resolution No. 2024-3613 and was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Miles
NEW BUSINESS
4. City Hall Plumbing Repair!
Ms. Eazell updated the council on ongoing plumbing issues at City Hall, focusing on a second problem on the city's side of the sewer line. She noted that a third issue along the main sewer line will be addressed separately through the sewer fund and recommended approving measures to resolve the current restroom-related issue.
Mayor Rossini opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, the public hearing was closed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Pitts, seconded by Councilmember Wu City Council to ratify emergency actions taken by the City Manager Staff to address the problem, along with requesting authority to pay Select Trenchless Pipelines for completed plumbing repairs, and was approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Miles, Pitts, Wu, Jones, and Rossini
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
CITY MANAGER REPORT
5. Information from City Manager and/or City Staff.
Ms. Eazell reported was attached to the agenda and was available for any questions.
There was no action taken on the item.
MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBER MATTERS
6. Individual Councilmember Information Items.
• Councilmember meeting attendance reports:
Orange County Mosquito & Vector Control District
• The October meeting was dark, and the November board meeting is scheduled for this Thursday. Last week, the Budget and Finance Committee, along with the Building and Personnel Committee, held a joint meeting to review construction and management firm proposals. After years of deliberation, it was decided to renovate the existing Haser property rather than pursue a new property purchase. • Out of 10 RFP submissions, four firms were shortlisted for further evaluation: The Cummings Group, Griffin Structures, PMCS, and Capital Program Management. Criteria such as experience with vector districts and proximity to the area were key in the selection process. Additional questions regarding staffing, cost-of-living adjustments, and indemnification clauses have been sent to these firms. Final reviews are expected at the December Budget and Finance Committee meeting.
• The current quarantine for the Oriental Fruit Fly is managed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, not Vector Control. • Orange County Sanitation District
• Councilmember Pitts reported no notable action.
• Orange County Fire Authority
• Mayor Rossini reported attendance at the October 24, 2024 meeting.
New Firehawk Helicopters: The new helicopters, which can drop 1,000 gallons of water (three times the capacity of the old models), have a reimbursable rate of $12,000/hour for external agency use.
This is a significant cost but reflects their advanced capabilities. • Awards: OCFA received GOA awards for accounting and
procurement-recognition of their operational excellence. • Union Contract Updates: Adjustments to Firefighter Union contracts under 3631 resulted in a $2.6M impact for Structural Fire Fund cities and $400K for cash contract cities. These updates were considered necessary and prudent, given OCFA's $500M budget and the importance of supporting those who protect the community.
November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
• Closed Session: Labor negotiations were discussed which is a routine yet ongoing issue.
• Orange County Library Advisory Board
Councilmember Wu reported the approval of the Irvine Agreement, with the transition set for July 1, 2025, when the Irvine County Library will officially close.
• This change will not affect other libraries, but residents are encouraged to continue using local libraries to maintain strong community engagement.
• Orange Unified School District City Schools Committee Mayor Pro Tem Jones reported attendance at the meeting on October 28, 2024 held at the held in the new administration and classroom building at Orange High School, funded by Measure S Phase 2.
• Villa Park High School: A new elevator was installed in the 100/200 building, and interior staircases were expanded to manage student traffic. The building's facelift facing Taft Avenue has received positive feedback for its cohesive design. Phase two construction is expected to be completed this month but likely won't open to students until after winter break to allow teachers time to prepare classrooms. • Leadership Update: Superintendent Ernie Gonzalez resigned, exercising a contractual clause to return to his previous position.
Former superintendent Mike Christensen, previously Superintendent of the Year, has stepped in as interim superintendent during the search for a new leader.
• Law Enforcement Advisory
• Mayor Rossini reported no meeting was held.
• Villa Park Community Services Foundation
• Mayor Pro Tem Jones thanked Councilmember Wu in for filling in for her at last month's meeting.
• The Halloween Fest was a huge success, thanks to Councilmember Wu and his wife for their efforts.
• Santa Tour will be held on Saturday, December 7, with stops detailed in the last feeder.
• Dryland Boat Parade will be held on Sunday, December 15, with the map also in the feeder.
• Hanukkah Celebration and Menorah Lighting will take place on Thursday, December 26.
• The Community Services Foundation is providing Christmas trees in front of City Hall this year, as the Women's League could not. • Housing Legislative Committee
Councilmember Miles reported no meeting was held.
• Bridges at Kraemer Place Advisory Committee
Councilmember Miles reported that following the October meeting, updates were made regarding the bylaws. Initially approved, the bylaws had to be revisited due to a requirement for members to file Form 700, which was later November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
determined unnecessary. The bylaws are now with legal for final review and will return to the supervisors for approval.
• Starting in January, alternates can be added to committee assignments, ensuring representation if a primary member is unavailable. Additionally, the updated bylaws address turnover by allowing new appointees and establishing term limits for chairs and vice chairs.
• The committee also requested a report from Mercy House on how Proposition 1 will impact bed availability and accessibility, with an update expected at the January meeting.
• Orange County Older Adults Advisory Committee
• Councilmember Miles reported attendance at a meeting on November gth featuring a presentation by Dr. Laura Trejo, Director of LA's Aging and Disability Department, who provided recommendations for improving the county's Office on Aging to maximize impact and strategic leadership.
Goals for 2024 include advocating for county-wide alignment of services for older adults in areas like housing, transportation, and care through an "age- friendly" lens and supporting Supervisor Wagner's directive to staff for a public service campaign to increase awareness of Office on Aging resources, such as the OC Navigator and mobile app.
• In 2025, the aim is to reorganize and elevate the Office on Aging within county departments to improve clarity, access, and funding opportunities.
Mayor Rossini referenced a recent Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event impacted 150-175 homes in Villa Park, leaving residents without power for nearly two days. He noted this outage caused significant challenges, including spoiled food, safety concerns for seniors with health needs, and frustration with Southern California Edison's (SCE) reimbursement process, which many residents found cumbersome and ineffective. He reported that Villa Park is not located in a high-risk urban-wildlife interface area, raising questions about its inclusion in the affected circuit. He noted that efforts are underway to schedule a meeting with scE leadership to discuss the possibility of separating Villa Park from this circuit. He explained that this dialogue is critical to addressing the community's concerns, as the current one-size-fits-all approach used by utilities does not adequately account for the specific needs of urban areas like Villa Park.
Councilmember Miles reported that residents have also voiced issues with PSPS communication, particularly for seniors who may miss notifications due to unfamiliar phone numbers or difficulty navigating online systems. She advised that residents have urged SCE to provide more meaningful accommodations, such as gift cards, for those affected by outages.
Mayor Rossini encouraged residents to contact the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to voice their concerns. While Villa Park may not align politically with Sacramento's decision-makers, he emphasized that it is vital that the community's perspective be part of the public record. He noted that the conversation with SCE and advocacy for better solutions will continue.
November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Pitts reflected on his service as his tenure on the Villa Park City Council comes to an end on December 3, 2024. Having lived in Villa Park for 25 years and volunteered for over 20 years, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community, including eight years on the City Council and two terms as mayor. He highlighted the unique character of Villa Park, a small community where neighbors connect and support one another. He recounted his campaign promises to maintain the city's high quality of life, fiscal responsibility, and low crime rates, emphasizing that these goals were achieved during his time in office. He referenced key accomplishments included partnerships with the Community Services Foundation to create Villa Park's first tranquil space at Knowles Park, installing speed signs to enhance safety for children walking to school, establishing a trust to mitigate pension liabilities, and producing informative video updates for residents. He noted he worked to secure COVID-19 relief grants for local businesses and collaborated with county leaders to keep businesses open during the pandemic. He thanked City staff, past and present, for their support and He banked cory guidance, with special recognition for City Manager Steve Franks and Public Works leader Mike Knowles for their leadership and dedication. He expressed gratitude to mentors who shaped his time on the council, including Pam Dunn and Diana Fascenelli, as well as his wife, Elizabeth, for her unwavering support and dedication throughout his tenure. He shared his commitment to continued service to the community as a newly elected board member representing Division 2 for the Serrano Water District. He concluded by thanking the council, staff, and residents for their trust and confidence over the past eight years.
Councilmember Wu thanked Councilmember Pitts for his service. He expressed gratitude to the 18 local families who hosted Marines on Thanksgiving Day and gave special thanks to Chuck Nieman for welcoming Marines to his garage to view his cars and tortoises. He noted that, Villa Park adopted 50 Marines this year, a decrease from previous years, but emphasized the significance of the program, which has thrived for 20 years thanks to Robert Frackelton and his friends who initiated it. He also noted that election season has ended, bringing Villa Park's streets back to normal. While affirming the importance of free speech, he addressed the unfortunate issue of campaign signs being stolen or vandalized, acknowledging that it affected candidates on both sides. He wished all families a happy Thanksgiving and reminded those traveling to stay safe.
Mayor Pro Tem Jones thanked Councilman Pitts for his years of service, noting the valuable lessons learned from his guidance and advice. She wished him well in his future endeavors and congratulated him on his accomplishments. She reported attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Orange High School for the new administration and classroom building and the Orange County Sanitation District luncheon. She expressed admiration for OC San's exceptional work in water management for Orange County and appreciated their continued service. She wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving.
November 19, 2024 Villa Park City Council Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Miles thanked Councilmember Pitts for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors. She attended the OC San luncheon, praising the agency for its impressive work and leadership among special districts. She highlighted the Frazier family's annual Thanksgiving meal program, which provides meals to those in need. She announced that donations of specific food items and supplies are still needed and can be delivered to their address by November 25. She noted that details will be shared via social media and city channels. She shared her experience with Patriots and Paws, an Anaheim-based nonprofit supporting veterans with free household items and service animals. She noted the organization relies solely on donations and provides invaluable support to veterans. She encouraged residents to consider donating gently used household items, appliances, and furnishings to this worthy cause. She noted that details on donation drop-offs and pickups will also be shared publicly. She concluded by wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving, expressing excitement for the upcoming Hanukkah Menorah lighting, and congratulating the potential new council members on their success.
Mayor Rossini reflected on nearly a decade of public service, beginning with his volunteer work on the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee before being elected to the City Council in 2016. Over the past eight years, he has served two terms as mayor, in 2019 and 2024. He expressed gratitude for the honor of serving Villa Park residents, collaborating with council members, and contributing to the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), where he served as vice chair twice and chair once. He thanked his family, particularly his wife Laura, for their unwavering support throughout his public service journey. He invited residents to the December 10 meeting to certify the election, welcome the incoming City Council members, and celebrate one final distinguished citizen award as his parting gift. He concluded by wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m. to the next regular Council meeting to be held in person on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
Recolones
City of Villa Park
ATTEST:
Steve Franks,
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.
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