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CC - Minutes - 09-23-2025MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 The regular meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Clark at 7:00 p.m., in the Rosemead City Council Chamber, located at 8838 East Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, California. PRESENT: Mayor Clark, Mayor Pro Tem Armenta, and Council Members Dang and Low ABSENT: Council Member Ly (on Military Leave) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was led by Mayor Pro Tem Armenta INVOCATION was led by Council Member Dang 1. PUBLIC COMMENT - None 2. PRESENTATIONS A. Introduction of Newly Hired Parks and Recreation, Administrative Specialist, Itzel Ruiz Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking introduced Administrative Specialist, Itzel Ruiz. He noted that Ms. Ruiz transferred from The Garvey Community Center staff and is knowledgeable of the Parks and Recreation Program. Itzel Ruiz thanked the City Council for the opportunity to grow in a new position and hopes to be successful in her new role. The City Council wished Ms. Ruiz much success in her new role in the Parks and Recreation Department. B. Proclamation Declaring September 15 through October 15, 2025, as "National Hispanic Heritage Month" in the City of Rosemead Steven Smith and Lina Moi, Rosemead Library staff talked about arts and crafts programs honoring National Hispanic Heritage Month. Sue Yamamoto, Rosemead Library Manager and her staff accepted the proclamation celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month. C. Proclamation Declaring the Month of September 2025 as "National Preparedness Month" in the City of Rosemead Public Safety Supervisor Wong thanked the Mayor and City Council for recognizing September as "National Preparedness Month". She emphasized the importance of being prepared for emergencies, encouraged residents to create plans and emergency Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 1 of kits, and acknowledged the City's ongoing efforts with first responders and community partners to ensure residents have the tools and resources to stay safe. Council Member Dang inquired about the Golden Guardian exercise. Ms. Wong stated that each city is expected to conduct its own emergency exercise drill. The City of Rosemead will participate in the Great Shake Out by conducting a City Hall evacuation drill, followed approximately one week later by an Emergency Operations Center activation drill, consistent with the City's annual preparedness practice. Council Member Dang stated that he hoped for a future joint emergency exercise with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The exercise would involve coordinated response activities between the Fire Department and the City's emergency team, followed by an after -action review. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta thanked Ms. Wong for her ongoing efforts to ensure that the City, staff, residents, and businesses are well prepared for emergencies. Council noted the recent distribution to City staff and Council of updated emergency supply backpacks and expressed appreciation for Ms. Wong's dedication and commitment to community safety. Council Member Low commend Ms. Wong for all her emergency preparedness work with the City. Mayor Clark acknowledged Ms. Wong efforts and thanked her for always spreading awareness on the importance of being prepared for an emergency. Council Member Dang inquired about an emergency drill at a high school with the Sheriffs Department. Chief of Police, Lieutenant Tiwari stated there was an active shooter drill hosted at a high school. The annual training is for deputies to stay up to date with protocol and procedures. Council Member Dang suggested that maybe finding an unoccupied building in the city could be used as a site to host an emergency training to assess the city's preparedness. 3. PUBLIC HEARING 4. CONSENT CALENDAR ACTION: Motion by Council Member Low, seconded by Council Member Dang to approve Consent Calendar items A-E. Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: ARMENTA, CLARK, DANG AND LOW; NOES: NONE; ABSENT: LY Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 2 of 9 A. Claims and Demands • Resolution No. 2025-47 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $3,779,268.98 CHECKS NUMBERED 120078 THROUGH NUMBER 120209, DRAFTS NUMBERED 8373 THROUGH NUMBER 8427 AND EFT NUMBERED 53527 THROUGH NUMBER 53569 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-47. B. Minutes Recommendation: That the City Council approve the regular meeting minutes of July 11, 2023, and August 12, 2025. C. Professional Services Agreement Amendment for L.A. Center for Alcohol and Drug Abuse On June 13, 2023, the City Council approved a four-year Professional Services Agreement with the L.A. Center for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (L.A. CADA) for $1,213,829, utilizing the HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan Program (HOME -ARP) funds. On June 3, 2025, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) informed the City of an administrative error in the City's HOME -ARP fund allocation. As a result, the City received an additional $1,368, bringing the total amount to $1,223,452. Staff is now seeking approval for the amendment to L.A. CADA's contract. Recommendation: That the City Council approve the first amendment to L.A. CADA's Professional Services Agreement, authorizing the additional funding of $1,368 with a total compensation amount of $1,215,197. D. All Way Stop Request at Encinita Avenue and Pitkin Street At the May 1, 2025, Traffic Commission Meeting, staff presented recommendations and options for traffic improvements at the intersection of Encinita Avenue and Pitkin Street. After a thorough review of existing field and traffic conditions and per the guidelines in the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, California Vehicle Code, and based on engineering judgement, it was determined that the intersection of Encinita Avenue and Pitkin Street does not meet the requirements for the installation of an all -way stop. There was not enough vehicular traffic traveling through the area, as well as a low number of collisions over the last 3 -year period. However, it was determined that this area along Encinita Avenue and Pitkin Street would benefit from the installation of other traffic calming measures, including, but not limited to, removing and replacing the non-functioning flashing pedestrian Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 3 of 9 crossing signage with new high-intensity school crossing signage featuring flashing beacons and pedestrian crossing push buttons. Recommendation: That the City Council authorize the approval of the Traffic Commission recommendations for traffic calming measures along Encinita Avenue between Lower Azusa Road and Rio Dell Street. E. Second Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Knorr Systems Int'l for the Purchase and Delivery of Swimming Pool Chemicals for Fiscal Year 2024-2025, and Amendment of Agreement Terms for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Staff recommends approval of a Second Amendment with Knorr Systems Int'l to increase the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 contract by $10,600, for a revised total of $62,600, and to clarify the agreement term through June 30, 2026. Recommendation: That the City Council approve the Second Amendment to increase the FY 2024-2025 contract amount by $10,600, for a revised total of $62,600; and incorporate the necessary language in Section 3.1.2 (Term) to properly extend the agreement terms for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. 5. MATTERS FROM CITY MANAGER & STAFF A. Graffiti Removal Program Six -Month Follow Up The City's Graffiti Removal Program, managed by the Department of Public Works' Public Services Division, has been operational for several years and has been successful in addressing graffiti incidents throughout the City. The report presents the Year 2025 first six-month graffiti activities and removal performance standards. Recommendation: That the City Council receive and file this report. Director of Public Work Gutierrez reported that at the January 28, 2025, City Council meeting, an overview of the City's Graffiti Abatement Program was presented. At the request of the City Council, this presentation served as a six-month follow-up to provide a program overview, a review of six-month statistics, heat map insights, and predictive mapping used to better allocate resources. He stated that program is managed by the Public Services Division under Public Works and consists of two full-time maintenance workers, one lead worker, and part-time weekend support staff. The team is equipped with service vehicles and pressure washing tools and operates 365 days a year. Mr. Gutierrez explained how graffiti incidents are identified, noting that there are four primary methods of identification. The first is through daily windshield surveys, during which maintenance staff conduct regular street sweeps to identify and report graffiti for prompt removal. In addition, graffiti incidents are also identified and tracked through several additional tools, including the GoGov CRM system, the My Rosemead app, the City's graffiti tracking software, and the 24-hour graffiti hotline. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 4 of 9 These resources allow both residents and staff to actively participate in identifying graffiti throughout the City, providing broad coverage and timely reporting. In 2023, the City recorded approximately 1,500 graffiti incidents, covering about 52,000 square feet. In 2024, the number of incidents increased to 3,500, with coverage exceeding 180,000 square feet, representing a 247% increase in area. The first half of 2025, staff reported approximately 1,630 graffiti incidents covering about 90,000 square feet, indicating that current activity levels are largely consistent with 2024, though still elevated compared to 2023. Staff noted that while 2024 showed a threefold increase in graffiti coverage compared to the prior year, 2025 data suggest a slowing trend, with an 8% increase in incidents and a 105% increase in area covered compared to the same period last year. Although graffiti remains higher than past levels, the data indicates moderation and early signs of stabilization in the rate of growth. He also reported that the Garvey and Jackson Avenue area remains the City's primary graffiti hotspot, with most incidents being gang related. Heat maps and predictive analysis show that some hotspots are diminishing and no areas are intensifying, allowing the City to strategically allocate staff and resources. These efforts help the City stay proactive in graffiti abatement and coordinate with law enforcement and community partners. Mr. Gutierrez also provided an update on the City's graffiti truck program, reporting that a new 2025 Ford 550 graffiti truck previously approved by the City Council has been ordered and is expected to be delivered in February 2026. He noted that the new truck will improve program efficiency and enhance capabilities, including lane striping, allowing for dual-purpose use and maximizing value for the City. Furthermore, provided an update on Caltrans graffiti removal processes, following a prior City Council request. Contact has been made with Caltrans graffiti removal personnel; he clarified that Caltrans operates under a 30 -day response time. He explained that Caltrans typically bundles requests and addresses all graffiti within a given area once they reach the site. Mr. Gutierrez noted that he has established direct contact with Caltrans with the appropriate personnel, enabling the City to better coordinate efforts and understand Caltrans' approach to graffiti removal. He requested direction from the City Council regarding the preferred method and frequency of future graffiti program updates. Mayor Pro Tem Armenia thanked Mr. Gutierrez for establishing contact with Caltrans, noting the challenges often encountered when coordinating with the agency. She expressed concern regarding staff notification and awareness of graffiti incidents on Caltrans property, citing visible graffiti on containers near the Rosemead Boulevard freeway off -ramp. She inquired about the process for identifying, tracking, and communicating these incidents to ensure timely coordination with Caltrans. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2015 Page 5 of Director of Public Works Gutierrez responded that staff established direct contact with Caltrans personnel. Unlike previous procedures, staff now knows the appropriate Caltrans contacts for direct communication. While graffiti reports are still submitted through Caltrans' computer system, staff can now supplement this process by notifying Caltrans directly for high-priority incidents, allowing for a faster response. He noted that most reports originate from resident submissions, with staff occasionally reporting observed graffiti. Regular street sweeps do not include freeway areas which assist staff in identifying graffiti. The new direct communication improves the City's ability to address urgent graffiti situations more promptly. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta emphasized the need for a proactive approach to graffiti reporting, including incidents on Caltrans property, and encouraged community and staff participation in notifying the City. She mentioned revisiting the social ordinance holding parents financially responsible for minors' graffiti, noting its past effectiveness as a deterrent, and highlighted the importance of collaboration and enforcement to reduce vandalism. Council Member Low inquired about enforcement measures related to graffiti incidents. She asked whether individuals responsible for graffiti are ever apprehended. She recalled a period when the Rosemead Team from the Sheriffs Department reviewed graffiti to identify and apprehend offenders. Director of Public Works Gutierrez responded that the City has implemented a graffiti tracking system which helps identify graffiti tags and links them to specific individuals. Once an offender is apprehended, staff can use the system to determine all areas affected by that individual's graffiti, allowing for appropriate enforcement actions to be taken. Chief of Police, Lieutenant Tiwari reported that recent graffiti activity, particularly near the Garvey Avenue and Jackson Avenue apartment complex, there are challenges of enforcing graffiti laws. Graffiti is typically a crime that requires witnessing to identify the offender. He noted a recent case in which a witness observed an individual committing graffiti, and a deputy responded and made an arrest. However, prosecution requires the witness to testify in court, as the crime was not committed in the deputy's presence. He emphasized that effective enforcement often depends on surveillance cameras, including those operated by businesses, because graffiti incidents can occur quickly, often within seconds, making real-time apprehension difficult. Council Member Low referenced the City's graffiti heat maps and asked about the use of predictive data to stay one step ahead of graffiti incidents. She inquired whether heat maps, which identify areas with higher graffiti activity, could be used to implement preventive measures to reduce future occurrences. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 6 of 9 Chief of Police, Lieutenant Tiwari explained that the City has implemented preventive measures in coordination with Public Works. Staff is notified in advance when graffiti cleanup is scheduled, as repeated tagging often occurs shortly after removal. Deputies sometimes do undercover operations to apprehend offenders in the act, which can lead to additional arrests. Lt. Tiwari noted ongoing coordination with Public Works, including text notifications to staff when cleanup crews may require security support due to safety concerns, ensuring staff protection during graffiti removal activities. City Manager Kim explained for clarification in reference to the presentation on graffiti counts, that the significant increase in incidents between 2023 and 2024. He clarified that the rise in numbers coincided with the City's decision, per City Council direction, to expand graffiti removal to private property in addition to public property. He emphasized that the increase in reported and removed graffiti during that period reflects the expanded scope of City staff efforts, rather than a sudden surge in graffiti activity. He noted that this explanation was also discussed during the January 2025 City Council meeting as part of a follow-up on graffiti program activities. Council Member Low asked the City Council how frequent they want staff to provide graffiti reports. City Manager Kim suggested that future graffiti updates be provided in the weekly report, with a six-month summary included. He noted that if the Council desires a scheduled meeting on graffiti, one can be scheduled. He acknowledged the efforts of staff, highlighting that the City of Rosemead removes graffiti within 24 hours and staff operates 365 days a year, addressing both public and private property. He recognized the significant progress made while noting that, although not all graffiti can be immediately addressed, the City's ongoing efforts demonstrate substantial improvement. Council Member Low inquired about the City's experience in providing graffiti removal services on private property. She asked whether property owners have been cooperative. Director of Public Works Gutierrez replied that property owners have been very cooperative and at times provide their own paint. Council Member Dang expressed satisfaction with the City's progress in graffiti abatement, noting the noticeable reduction of graffiti in areas he frequents. He indicated support for including updates in the weekly report. In addition, he would like a follow-up report after the new graffiti truck has been in service for a few months on the assessment on how the truck enhances staff efforts and evaluate its overall performance and impact on the program. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 7 q(9 Mayor Pro Tem Armenta asked why the purchase of the graffiti truck took long after the City Council approved the purchase. City Manager Kim explained that the need for a new graffiti removal vehicle arose after one of the City's existing trucks was damaged. The new vehicle, purchased in January, includes dual-purpose equipment for graffiti removal and lane striping, reducing contracted work and saving costs. Delays in procurement occurred due to vehicle assessments and specialized equipment considerations. Council Member Clark asked if there were any requests to speak from the public. There being none, Mayor Clark closed the public comment portion. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta stated that the weekly reports already provide a tally of graffiti removed. She expressed that a comprehensive six-month report would be sufficient for her, and any additional questions could be addressed by placing the item on a future agenda. Director of Public Works Gutierrez reiterated the City Council's direction to bring back maybe six months after the new graffiti truck is in place, to provide an update on that operation. 6. MATTERS FROM MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL A. Council Comments Mayor Pro Tem Armenta thanked Council Member Low for bringing the Moon Festival to Rosemead, praising it as a celebration of the City's diversity. She noted the event featured Korean barbecue and Spanish music and thanked Director of Parks and Recreation and City staff for their support. The event was well attended and received positive feedback. She reminded everyone of the upcoming Dia de los Muertos and Fall Fiesta on October 4th. Council Member Low thanked Parks and Recreation staff and Public Works staff for their support of the Moon Festival, noting that the event was another success in its ninth year. She reported that vendors were satisfied, turnout was strong, and the event provided a fun experience for residents and neighboring cities. She also noted positive feedback regarding Sheriff Patrol presence, which contributed to a safe environment. Additionally, commended the Rosemead Go ride -hailing program, highlighting its success in serving more residents without increasing costs. She commended Council Member Dang for pitching the program and thanked staff for its implementation and success. Council Member Dang asked if there was going to be a report back on the Rosemead Go program. City Manager Kim replied that a report is being scheduled before the City Council for the October 28' meeting. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 8 of 9 Council Member Low asked if there were any plans to expand the pickle ball courts to other parks. City Manager Kim replied there is a $5 million grant that the City has received to improve Rosemead Park and there are potential additional amenities at that park. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta acknowledged that the $5 million funding was largely the result of efforts by Assemblymember Mike Fong, who advocated the City's allocation. She noted that, although Senator Rubio is not the City's senator, her vote was required for approval. She expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort that enabled the City to secure the funding and recognized Assemblymember Fong's instrumental role in obtaining it. Mayor Clark commended staff for their work on the September l l' Memorial, noting that the City's observance is among the best. She also recognized staff for their efforts on the Moon Festival. Mayor Clark raised a concern regarding fading curb house numbers, noting that while the City does not provide this service, asked if there are opportunities for nonprofits to assist with repainting curb house numbers. City Manager Kim stated that he will work with City staff to check on the best way to go about curb painting. 7. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Clark adjourned the meeting at 8:29 p.m. Ericka Hernandez, City Clerk - _ - APPROVED: vu f & MargarefJClark, Mayor Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025 Page 9 of 9