MAY 28, 2025 – CC/WHA
May 28, 2025 – Minutes Page 1
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Freedman called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: MPT/Cajulis led the flag salute.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: M/Freedman, MPT/Cajulis, C/Law, C/Tragarz arrived at 7:10 p.m.), C/Wu
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Also present: City Manager Weiner; Acting City Attorney Mann; Community Development Director Vasquez, Public Works Director Barcelo; Community Services Director Bumia; Finance Director Merkel Medina; Finance Manager Meza; Deputy Director of Community Development Guerra; Senior Management Analyst Munoz; Community Relations Officer Maio; Administrative Services/Human Resources Officer Ramos; Senior Management Analyst Markel; Admin Services Specialist Cortez and City Clerk De Dios.
INVOCATION– NON-DENOMINATIONAL: Pastor Hansel Orzame from Ekklesia Church provided the invocation.
PRESENTATIONS:
• Pet of the Month – Marlon: 8-month old Poodle mix
City Staff presented a video on the Pet of the Month, Marlon. • Public Safety Update – Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Captain Tousey Captain Tousey provided a brief update and stated that crime had decreased in the City.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR THE CITY COUNCIL:
William Harrison acknowledged Wallace’s Chicken for their commitment to the community. He further thanked City Staff for their hard work and speedy responses. Mr. Harrison encouraged the City Council to continue to visit areas throughout the City.
WALNUT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 28, 2025 – CC/WHA
May 28, 2025 – Minutes Page 2
Muoy Li, Library Manager reported that the Walnut Library is participating in the Discovery Summer Program which will be taking place from June 2 to August 10. She further encouraged residents to visit the Library’s website for more information on summer programming.
MINUTES:
1. Approval of the April 30, 2025 Study Session meeting
2. Approval of the May 14, 2025 Study Session meeting
3. Approval of the May 14, 2025 City Council meeting
MOTION ON ITEMS 1-3
C/Law made a motion to approve items 1-3; seconded by C/Wu. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
PUBLIC HEARINGS/ ORDINANCE:
4. Clean Air Ordinance No. 25-01: Request for Continuance Recommendation: That the City Council continue the Ordinance to an upcoming regularly scheduled City Council meeting.
M/Freedman opened the hearing at 7:24 p.m.
DDCS/Guerra provided a brief staff report on the continuance request to allow for a study session and further discussion on this item in late June.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Freedman closed the public hearing at 7:25pm.
MOTION ON ITEM 5
C/Tragarz made a motion to continue the ordinance to an upcoming scheduled City Council meeting; seconded by MPT/Cajulis. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
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May 28, 2025 – Minutes Page 3
5. Ordinance No. 25-02 – Recreation Vehicle(s) Parking
Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Introduce by title only and waive further reading of Ordinance No. 25-02, “An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Walnut, amending Walnut Municipal Code (WMC) Title 3 (Public Health, Safety, and Welfare), by adding Chapter 3.38 (Recreational Vehicle Parking) Restricting Recreational Vehicle Parking on Public Streets” and agendize for adoption at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on June 11, 2025.
Mayor Freedman opened the public hearing at 7:25pm.
DDCS/Guerra provided a brief staff report on the item.
In response to an inquiry from C/Wu regarding the municipal code, DDCS/Guerra stated that the City currently has existing code regarding RV parking on private property but not on public property.
William Harrison stated his opposition to RV parking on public property.
There being no further discussion, M/Freedman closed the public hearing at 7:29pm.
MOTION ON ITEM 5
MPT/Cajulis made a motion to approve staff’s recommendation to introduce Ordinance No. 25-02 by title only and waive further reading; seconded by C/Law.
Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
6. Ordinance No. 25-03 – Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Introduce, by title only, and waiver further reading of Ordinance No. 25-03, adopting the City of Walnut’s Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map to designate Moderate, High, and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and amending Title 2, Chapter 2.04.050(A) – (Designation and Amendments for Fire Zone) of the Walnut Municipal (WMC) in order to update the Fire Hazard Severity Zones regulations as required by California State Law.
M/Freedman opened the public hearing at 7:30pm.
ASHRO/Ramos provided a brief staff report on the item.
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William Harrison stated his concerns with the Fire Department and the identification of hazardous areas.
Richard Saretsky stated his concerns with the Fire Department and the identification of hazardous areas.
Acting Assistant Fire Chief William Gamble from Los Angeles County Fire Department stated the updated requirements and definitions may be found on the CalFire website.
In response to an inquiry from C/Wu regarding financial impact on residents, Acting Assistant Fire Chief Gamble stated that there are no additional fees.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Freedman closed the public hearing at 7:43pm.
MOTION ON ITEM 6
C/Tragarz made a motion to waive further reading and introduce Ordinance 25- 03; seconded by C/Law. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
7. Resolution No. 25-19 - Establishment of Walnut’s Master Fee Schedule Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 25-19, approving the Walnut Master Fee Schedule for the Administrative Services, Development Services, Community Services, Finance, and Public Works Departments; and
2. Authorize Staff to implement the updated fees effective July 1, 2025, as outlined in the attached schedule (Attachment 2).
M/Freedman opened the public hearing at 7:43pm.
ASHRO/Ramos provided a brief staff report on the item.
In response to an inquiry from C/Wu, ASHRO/Ramos stated that the fees have now been compiled from the various departments.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Freedman closed the public hearing at 7:45pm.
MAY 28, 2025 – CC/WHA
May 28, 2025 – Minutes Page 5
MOTION ON ITEM 7
MPT/Cajulis made a motion to approve staff’s recommendation on item 7; seconded by C/Law. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR:
8. Resolution No. 25-20 - A Resolution of the City of Walnut Allowing Certain Claims and Demands in the Amount of $1,179,985.44 Demand No. 170217 through No. 170282, Both Inclusive Fiscal Year 2024-25
Recommendation: The City Council adopt Resolution No. 25-20.
11. Agreement for Vendor Services with TRL Systems for Replacement of the Senior Center Fire System
Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Approve the Agreement for Vendor Services with TRL Systems in the amount of $78,810.00 for the replacement of the fire alarm system at the Walnut Senior Center;
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement on behalf of the City in substantially the form attached and in such final form as approved by the City Attorney;
3. Authorize staff to issue change orders not to exceed 10% of the contract award amount ($7,881) to TRL Systems; and
4. Authorize the issuance of a Purchase Order to TRL Systems in the amount of $78,810.00
12. Authorize Walnut Valley Pony Baseball (WVPB) to Host a Third Tournament for Spring Season – Shetland Region 5 Tournament June 19 through June 24 at Creekside Park
Recommendation: That the City Council authorize WVPB to host the Shetland Region 5 Tournament on June 19-24, 2025, at Creekside Park as a third tournament for the season.
13. Notice of Decision – May 21, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting MAY 28, 2025 – CC/WHA
May 28, 2025 – Minutes Page 6
Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Receive and File the “Notice of Decision” by the Planning Commission at its May 21, 2025 Meeting for the following Item(s)/Project(s):
a) General Plan (GP) Conformity Determination;
b) Zoning Code Amendment (ZCA) No. 2025-01;
c) Residential Project at 20003 Valley Boulevard; and
d) Site Plan Case & Architectural Review (SPC/AR) 2024-133.
MOTION ON ITEM 8, 11-13
C/Wu made a motion to approve items 8, 11 - 13; seconded by C/Law. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ITEM PULLED FOR DISCUSSION:
9. Resolution No. 25-21 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Walnut, California, Adopting a Policy for the Selection of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem Policy
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 25-21 Adopting a Policy for the Selection of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem.
C/Tragarz stated her concerns and asked that paragraph 7 on the resolution be removed and renumber the rest of the items on the resolution.
MOTION ON ITEM 9
C/Tragarz made a motion to approve item 9 without paragraph 7; seconded by C/Wu. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
10. Award of Contract to Administrative Services Cooperative Inc., to provide services for the Walnut Way Dial-A-Cab Program
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Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Award a contract to Administrative Services Cooperative, Inc., to provide services for the Walnut Way Dial-A-Cab program;
2. Approve said Agreement for one (1) year beginning July 1, 2025 and expiring on June 30, 2026, which may be renewed annually upon expiration, subject to the approval of the City Manager, for a maximum total of two (2), one (1) year extensions;
3. Reject all other proposals;
4. Authorize the City Manager to execute and administer said Agreement in substantially the form attached, and in such final form as approved by the City Attorney; and
5. Direct Staff to issue a Purchase Order to Administrative Cooperative Services, Inc., utilizing funds budgeted under Proposition A (23-5410) as prescribed in the 2025-2026 Annual Budget, for the duration of said Agreement.
DDCD/Guerra provided a brief staff report on the item. She explained the program is offered to the senior residents and offers cab service that takes them anywhere within the City, five miles outside the city, and up to 15 miles to medical facilities.
The program has been active for over 20 years.
MPT/Cajulis encouraged senior residents to utilize the City’s program.
DDCD/Guerra explained that the city conducted an RFP and this company was selected and has been introduced to the seniors and the program will work with the new company.
William Harrison, resident, stated his concerns with the previous Dial-a-Cab program vendor.
C/Wu thanked City Staff for their hard work on this program.
MOTION ON ITEM 10
C/Law made a motion to approve item 10; seconded by C/Wu. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
COUNCIL DISCUSSION/TRANSACTION ITEMS:
14. Mt. San Antonio College – Pedestrian Bridge Sign and Alternatives MAY 28, 2025 – CC/WHA
May 28, 2025 – Minutes Page 8
Recommendation: That the City Council discuss the City of Walnut sign to be installed on Temple Avenue and provide staff with direction.
CDD/Vasquez and PWD/Barcelo provided a brief presentation and background on a gateway sign discussed between the City and Mt. SAC. During the first discussion, the City Council provided feedback on the design alternatives back in August. He provided two alternatives that were proposed by Mt. SAC for the City Council to consider.
William Harrison provided a statement on the design options from Mt. SAC.
Patrick Lerdsuwanrut, Mt. SAC student, provided a statement on the bridge design options.
CDD/Vasquez stated that the bridge at Mt. SAC had finished construction and further stated that the design of the City of Walnut lettering was the subject of the discussion.
Discussion ensued regarding the pedestrian bridge sign design and alternatives on the variations of the font style for “City of Walnut”.
PWD/Barcelo stated if staff can get direction from the City Council this evening if everyone agrees to continue with the pedestrian bridge model versus Mt. SAC’s proposed median sign model.
M/Freedman expressed concern with the timeline to complete.
CM/Weiner said staff cannot control how long it would take to bring back to staff after Mt. SAC has reviewed.
Further discussion ensued regarding options with Council providing direction:
Bring back the three designs to a future meeting “Welcome to City of Walnut” all one font with the exception of the scripted “W.”
In response to an inquiry from M/Freedman regarding lighting, CDD/Vasquez confirmed that the sign would have back-lighting regardless of the design.
Staff thanked Council for their input and stated that the item would be brought back for approval.
ANNOUNCEMENTS (COUNCIL MEMBERS AND STAFF):
A. Councilmembers’ report on meetings attended at the expense of the local agency
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MPT/Cajulis stated that he attended the Contract Cities Municipal Seminar. He further thanked law enforcement and firefighters for their service, along with City Staff for their hard work and welcomed Acting Assistant Fire Chief Gamble.
C/Tragarz stated that she attended the annual Contract Cities event. She further stated that the City may send comments to the Supervisors that the prison and jail facilities need to be funded, as well as the health and full services. She congratulated the graduating class of 2025.
B. Individual Members’ comments and updates
M/Freedman thanked Captain Tousey and Acting Assistant Fire Chief Gamble for their attendance. She shared that she was able to participate in the Oswalt Academy Principal for a Day event. M/Freedman congratulated the graduating class of 2025.
C/Wu stated that he attended the Memorial Day Remembrance Event at City Hall.
He further stated that he attended the Pizza with a Peace Officer event at New York Pizzeria.
C/Law stated that she attended the Memorial Day Remembrance Event at City Hall and the Pizza with a Peace Officer event.
COUNCIL LATE BUSINESS: None scheduled.
CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNS TO THE WALNUT HOUSING AUTHORITY
CALL TO ORDER: Authority Chair Freedman called the meeting to order at 8:22 p.m.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR HOUSING AUTHORITY:
There being no one present wishing to speak, it was unanimously moved by the Authority to close oral communications; motion carried.
AUTHORITY PUBLIC HEARINGS: None scheduled.
AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDAR:
WALNUT HOUSING AUTHORITY MEETING
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May 28, 2025 – Minutes Page 10
15. Resolution No. 25-05 WHA - A Resolution of the Walnut Housing Authority Allowing Certain Claims and Demands in the Amount of $18,916.28 Demand No. 100458 Through No. 100458, Both Inclusive Fiscal Year 2024-25 Recommendation: That the Authority adopt Resolution No. 25-05 WHA.
MOTION ON ITEM 15
AM/Law made a motion to approve item 15; second by AM/Wu. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cajulis, Freedman, Law, Tragarz, Wu NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
AUTHORITY DISCUSSION/TRANSACTION ITEMS: None scheduled.
AUTHORITY LATE BUSINESS: None scheduled.
AUTHORITY ADJOURNS TO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CLOSED SESSION: None scheduled.
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, the City Council adjourned the regular meeting at 8:23 p.m.
PASSED AND APPROVED this 11th day of June 2025.
_______________________________
Linda Freedman, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________
Teresa De Dios, City Clerk
PREPARED BY:
_______________________________________
Jackie Cortez, Administrative Services Specialist