Loading...
CC - Item 5B - Minutes of October 14, 2025Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 1 of 18 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2025 The regular meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Clark at 7:03 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 Member Dang ABSENT: Council Members Low and Ly PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was led by Mayor Pro Tem Armenta INVOCATION was led by Mayor Clark STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Kim, City Attorney Richman, Assistant City Manager/ Finance Director Chua, Director of Community Development Valenzuela, Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking, Director of Public Works Gutierrez, Director of Public Safety Murakami, and City Clerk Hernandez 1.PUBLIC COMMENT Speaker Charles Wang, stated he has been living in the United States for 50 years as I immigrated to the United States in 1976. I'm a veteran of Republic of China and trained in the United States Air Force. I think these two countries should always be together. Taiwan Republic China Air Force have raised the American flag and the Taiwan Republic China flag for 53 years. That means 53 years ago, the leader's city passed the law, Republic of China Day, double ten celebration. I am here to offer support to proclaim Republic of China's birthday and the double ten’s celebration. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta asserted that right now is the time for General Public Comment for items that are not on the agenda; explained the Council will take Mr. Wang’s comments into consideration during the discussion of Item 6A for the request to proclaim October 10, 2025, as National Day of the Republic of China. 2.PRESENTATIONS - None 3.PUBLIC HEARING - None 4.CONSENT CALENDAR ACTION: Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Armenta, seconded by Council Member Dang to approve Consent Calendar items A-D, and F-I. Council Member Dang pulled Item Consent Calendar Item 4E for separate discussion. Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: ARMENTA, CLARK, AND DANG; NOES: NONE; ABSENT: LOW AND LY A.Claims and Demands AGENDA ITEM 5.B Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 2 of 18 •Resolution No. 2025-48 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1,084,520.46 CHECKS NUMBERED 120210 THROUGH NUMBER 120294, DRAFTS NUMBERED 8428 THROUGH NUMBER 8446 AND EFT NUMBERED 53570 THROUGH NUMBER 53585 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-48. •Resolution No. 2025-55 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1,089,197.46 CHECKS NUMBERED 120295 THROUGH NUMBER 120378, DRAFTS NUMBERED 8447 THROUGH NUMBER 8495 AND EFT NUMBERED 53586 THROUGH NUMBER 53623 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-55. B.Minutes Recommendation: That the City Council approve the minutes of the special and regular meeting of September 9, 2025 and regular meeting of September 23, 2025. C.Request to Approve Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week for October 6-12, 2025 Proclamation A request to consider a proclamation for “Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week” from October 6-12, 2025. Code Enforcement Officers help keep our communities safe and healthy across California by enforcing local, state, and federal rules. Their work covers everything from building and zoning to housing, animal control, and overall public safety. In 2018, the California Legislature recognized their important role by passing Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 283, officially making the second week of October “Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week” every year. Recommendation: That the City Council approve the proclamation request for “Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week” from October 6-12, 2025, and present proclamation at a subsequent meeting. D.Accept Completed Improvements and Authorize the Filing of a Notice of Completion for the City Council Chambers Audiovisual Upgrades – City Project No. 31030 Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 3 of 18 On August 12, 2025, the City Council awarded a construction contract to Studio Spectrum, Inc. for the City Council Chambers Audiovisual Upgrade Project. The total construction budget, including a 10% contingency, was set at $199,403.28. All construction improvements have been completed and have been accepted by City staff. A notice of completion will be filed with the Los Angeles County Recorder upon approval by the City Council. The release of retention funds will occur 35 days after the filing of the notice of completion. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1.Accept the completed improvement for the City Council Chambers Audiovisual Upgrade Project No. 31030 as performed by Studio Spectrum, Inc. 2.Authorize the recordation of Notice of Completion with the Los Angeles County Recorder and the release of retention funds 35 days thereafter. F.Appointment of the Youth Advisory Committee The City issued a call for applications for the Youth Advisory Committee for the 2025–2026 school year. The Committee provides guidance to the City Council on issues affecting youth and is overseen by the Parks and Recreation Department. Recommendation: That the City Council approve the appointments of Zhaniya Ayankyzy, Sophia Cao, Vivienne Dinh, Kristin Kim, Peter Ly, Jessica Navarro and Evelyn To, to the Youth Advisory Committee. G.Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-49, Approving a Three (3) Year Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Rosemead and the Rosemead Employee Association, AFSCME Local 321, from July 1, 2025 Through June 30, 2028 and Adopt Resolution No. 2025-50, Amending the Authorized Staffing List The City Council will consider approval of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with the Rosemead Employee Association (“REA”), Local 321 of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (“AFSCME”) covering all General Service employees. The MOU details the terms and conditions of employment and salary ranges effective July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028. City representatives negotiated the tentative agreement with the REA. AFSCME is the exclusive representative of employees in the City’s REA General Service Unit. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1.Adopt Resolution No. 2025-49, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A THREE (3) YEAR MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD AND THE ROSEMEAD Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 4 of 18 EMPLOYEE ASSOCIATION, AFSCME LOCAL 321 FROM JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2028 2. Adopt Resolution No. 2025-50, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE AUTHORIZED STAFFING LIST H. Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-51, Establishing Salary and Benefits for the Classifications in the Unrepresented Middle Management Group from July 1, 2025 Through June 30, 2028, and Resolution No. 2025-52, Establishing Salary and Benefits for Part-Time Employees from July 1, 2025 Through June 30, 2028 Resolution No. 2025-51 describes the salary and benefits for the Middle Management employees of the City effective July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028, while Resolution No. 2025-52 describes the salary and benefits for all Part-Time employees of the City. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Adopt Resolution No. 2025-51, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR MIDDLE MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD FROM JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2028 2. Adopt Resolution No. 2025-52, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR PART-TIME CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE SERVICE OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD FROM JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2028 I. Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-54, Amending the City of Rosemead Salary Schedule for Fiscal Year 2025-26, Fiscal Year 2026-27, and for Fiscal Year 2027-28 to Meet the California Code of Regulations Title 2, Section 570.5 and 571 to Reflect Approved Rates California Code of Regulations Section 570.5 and amendments to 571(b) require a consolidated Salary Schedule which shows all City classifications and salary ranges for purposes of determining eligible salary compensation for retirement be publicly available. The consolidated salary schedule must be adopted by the City Council even though the compensation changes were approved via a Memorandum of Understanding and/or employee salary and benefit Resolutions. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 5 of 18 For employees in the groups of General Service and Middle Management, Resolution No. 2025-54 represents the Citywide Salary Schedule including the 3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2025-26, the 3% COLA for Fiscal Year 2026-27, and the 3% COLA for Fiscal Year 2027-28 summarized by the individual groups for concurrent approval. Please note that the City Manager, City Clerk, Executive Management Group and Professional and Confidential Group are not included in these COLA adjustments. If any changes are made to salary-related resolutions presented concurrently, a modification would need to be made to the schedule. Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-54, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE SALARY SCHEDULE TO MEET THE CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS TITLE 2, SECTION 570.5 AND 571 TO REFLECT APPROVED RATES FROM JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2028 CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION E. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance No. 1030, Amending Title 15 to Adopt by Reference Title 24 of the 2025 California Building Standards Code Every three (3) years, the State of California Building Standards Commission publishes revised Building Standards Code (Title 24, Parts 1 through 12), effective statewide beginning January 1st of the code cycle. Whether or not the City takes formal adoption action, the City is required by law to enforce these provisions. Ordinance No. 1030 proposes the adoption of State codes directly. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Move to introduce for first reading, by title only, Ordinance No. 1030, entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 15 BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE, THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, INCLUDING THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, THE CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, THE CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, THE CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, THE CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE, THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING CODE, THE CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDINGS CODE, THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, AND THE CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDINGS CODE, WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS THERETO Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 6 of 18 2. Schedule a public hearing on October 28, 2025, to consider the adoption and second reading of Ordinance No. 1030. Contract Building Official Ayla Jefferson, stated this is the first reading of the ordinance amending the City of Rosemead's Municipal Code by modifying Title 15 to adopt by reference the 2025 California Building Standards Codes. Every three years, the California Building Standards Commission establishes new statewide construction codes. Cities are allowed to amend provisions of the California Codes provided that findings are made based on topographical, geographical or climatic conditions. With this ordinance, staff is recommending that the City Council adopt the 2025 California Construction Codes with certain amendments necessary for the protection of public health, safety and welfare. At this time, we respectfully request the City Council to read by title only for the first reading, waive further reading, and schedule a public hearing and consideration of second reading for October 28, 2025. Council Member Dang stated the normal process has been that we adopt the LA County Building Code and its references such as electrical, mechanical, HVAC, etc. Opined that this particular item is sort of out of the norm as we don't usually adopt the State Code, rather we adopt the County’s Code. Asked if the Building team could give us a matrix showing the California Code versus the current LA County Building Code versus the 2026 Building Code; commented by itemizing the changes, it will provide clarity on how it will impact us and what specifically is not beneficial to our economic development. Council Member Dang suggested instead of going this route, perhaps we could consider looking at the 2026 LA County Code and see what amendments we find in that code to be very difficult and challenging, and perhaps we introduce our own Rosemead amendments. Clarified we're going to create a 2026 Rosemead Code amending the LA County Building Code, which would be an easier task as opposed to going the first route. Building Official Jefferson replied we can prepare an analysis comparing the 2025 California Codes and the current County Codes versus future County Codes that they will adopt November 26th. We will bring back the analysis to you and if Council wishes to proceed with that route, then we can repeal this ordinance and put in place another ordinance. Emphasized whether we do or don't do anything tonight, the California Codes will be in effect January 1st, no matter what. This amendment that we're bringing to you is more of a how we administrate the Building Code, which is almost identical to the County Codes and our current practices. Explained there are several reasons that we are shifting away from LA County’s Code – the State Codes are becoming more and more comprehensive compared to the past, they are refining the California Codes every three years and many issues that County once required amendments for are now incorporated in the California Codes. Another reason is we frequently hear from developers, homeowners, and contractors, at the counter asking us not to enforce certain County Codes requirements that are more restrictive, but unfortunately, even though it's not really 100% applicable to a Rosemead case, our hands are tied because we have adopted County Codes, so we have to go to that more difficult and restrictive route. Highlighted one of the reasons that we are proposing to go directly to the California Code is to streamline the process to be more business friendly and more friendly to the developers and homeowners by avoiding unnecessary restrictive provisions; also the biggest challenge that we have this year Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 7 of 18 is with Assembly Bill (AB) 130 the state gave a very clear message to jurisdictions to go easy on applicants on constructions because of the residential housing shortage. Ms. Jefferson asserted, if you want, we can still do the analysis and come back in January once the County publishes theirs; stating if you prefer to go that route, either to adopt LA County Code or to create a Rosemead Code with lengthy amendments, we can certainly repeal this ordinance and move forward 30 days after the passage of the other as well. Council Member Dang thanked Building Official Jefferson for that overview. Ascertained what I'm understanding is even if we do absolutely nothing tonight, we're going to be operating with the California code by January 1, 2026, by default. Ms. Jefferson replied that’s correct, but the caveat is we're not going to be able to operate because we don't have administration in our Municipal Code. So, we won't have the necessary tools to regulate the permitting issuance process. Mayor Clark interjected, asking why we must wait until January? Would the Building team be able to give us the comparison that Council Member Dang is requesting by the next Council meeting so we can decide then. Opined we don't want to tie our hands so we can't approve building permits. Building Official Jefferson responded Mayor Clark is right, we really don't need to wait unless the County had their ordinance in place, however, they're not going to have their ordinance in place until mid-November. That being said, we don't have anything to compare with at this time. In response to Mayor Clark’s question, Council Member Dang explained what our Building Official is saying in order to provide a comprehensive matrix that compares the California Code versus the future LA County Code, that she has to have a copy of that future LA County Code, but it will not be ready until January. So, without that publication, she will not have a means to produce that comparison. Building Official Jefferson affirmed that is correct. Council Member Dang responded that it also creates a separate question for me. If you don't have a future code to read and compare, then how do you know it's more restrictive than what you are doing now? Ms. Jefferson answered we know that based on their past practices and then we building officials talk to each other. So, they kept certain reach code items within their municipal code, which creates more cost prohibition for most of the developers that we are being told to go easy on them. Council Member Dang expressed that I'm fully supportive of the development industry and if there's a way to make it safer and more cost effective, you have my support. Shared that I am still very curious about what these future amendments are, that are sort of punitive, that makes it more difficult as you say. Asked if there is a way to ask your Building Official colleagues that you trade notes with, to give us some of that draft language that perhaps you could come back to council and say Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 8 of 18 these are the things that's being proposed and most likely are going to get passed and at least we could optically see those challenges and once we see it, we can decide whether to just adopt the California Code or create our own Rosemead City Code. Building Official Jefferson responded that they're going to have their first reading on October 21st, so I will keep an eye on the amendments. Asserted that we can certainly do a comparison and analysis, but probably I'm going to leave to City Attorney to chime in about the timing of sequence of things. If we defer tonight's to another date, then we may end up doing an urgency. City Attorney Richman stated that's often what we will do if we decide to follow the County's Code because they are a little further along. If Council wants to wait to see what the County's looks like at their first reading since that will most likely be what's adopted, then we can bring back the document with whatever changes and then we would adopt it as an urgency ordinance to make sure we have something in effect for January 1st. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta stated with the expertise of Council Member Dang as he is a Planning Official in LA City. I understand where you're coming from because we do want to compare, but when it's in a draft form, I don't think it's fair because anything could change. I think I heard that we could adopt it now and amend it later, so we don't have to go through an urgency ordinance. City Attorney Richman affirmed that's what they're recommending. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta opined that's what we should do, but of course, we've always respected anybody pulling an item and looking into it further. If we're able to do that, and then once you have not just a draft, but the actual concrete amendments, then we could compare it to do amendments then. Building Official Jefferson replied absolutely, we can do that. The state doesn't prohibit cities from making an amendment to their codes; noted we can make amendments any time of the year, all we need is two readings and maybe a study session. Council Member Dang stated the reason why I'm a little hesitant right now is that we have a mentioning of the Building Code, Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code, Green Code, etc. But the Fire Code is deliberately missing from here because the Fire Code is actually enforced by LA County Fire Department. The potential issue is that the LA County Fire Code, that's checked by the LA County Fire Plan Checkers , in their amendments, it references back to a lot of times the LA County Code, and that's where the disconnect might be. Opined they might be referencing something which in 2026, if we just adopt the California Code, there's going to be a missing link. That's why I want to see those draft language to see if any of those triggers is related to a fire component. So that's why it's important to see it. If there isn't any, by all means, I really support the building industry. If you could make it easier, quicker, you have my support, but I just want to make sure that there's no disconnect. Building Official Jefferson clarified that the Fire Code amendments are mostly Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 9 of 18 related to fire and especially this year there are more restrictive California Fire Codes, but on the other hand the amendments of the LA County Fire Code and the LA County Building Code amendments as long as also the California Codes, they align each other. Since the LA County code amendments are mostly structural or reach code or seismic related. So, the fire portion is not changing and impacting the coordination. They haven't done there, so typically Los Angeles County Fire Department completes their amendments in January, and then we will come back after they do their amendments. But come January 1st, the City of Rosemead Fire Code also will be California Code. The good part is that since we are not issuing any permitting on the Fire Code, we really don't need any administration. So it is the County administration that anybody who's going to pulling their permits from the fire department for fire sprinkler or fire alarms in that sense. Council Member Dang commented you touch on a good point. I'm not familiar with County, but I'm familiar with LA City; for instance, the LA City Fire Code, they don't allow partial sprinkler buildings. The California Fire Code does, and that's where the disconnect is. Reiterated I want to make sure that the LA County Fire Code doesn't have that same reading where it doesn't align with the California Building Code. Ms. Jefferson stated if I'm not mistaken, I believe LA County Fire Code doesn't allow partial sprinkler buildings either. Council Member Dang replied but the State Fire Code does. Ms. Jefferson pointed out but we're not adopting State Fire. Mr. Dang stated I understand, but that's just one thing. So, if the LA County Fire Code makes reference to the LA County Plumbing Code for the sprinklers for instance, for sprinkler heads or the pressure or the flow, you're going to have that disconnect. Ms. Jefferson answered yes, you're right in that analogy, but in the definitions, in the administration of the California Code, everything refers to the jurisdiction, electric code, plumbing code, mechanical code, and building code. And when we are adapting California Code, we are making some administrative changes and we're naming them City of Rosemead Building Code, City of Rosemead Plumbing Code, etc.; emphasizing everything refers back to what we are adapting tonight. Council Member Dang stated correct, but the base code is California base. I think we're talking strategically about the same mission goal here. Asked the City Attorney if the Building Official comes back in November would that provide enough time. City Attorney Richman responded we only have one meeting in November and that's a special meeting, and then we have one more meeting in December. Indicated she has to verify if the rules for adopting codes by reference need to be done at a regular meeting versus a special meeting. Because it will be a special meeting since we can't meet on Veterans Day, we're meeting on a non-Council meeting day. Council Member Dang inquired if we have another meeting in October? Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 10 of 18 Mayor Pro Tem Armenta answered yes, we have one on October 28th. City Attorney Richman stated we would bring this back on the 28th for a first reading, followed by the second reading at this first meeting of December and then passage 30 days after that; noted that would still put us a little past January 1st, so we'd also have to adopt a second urgency ordinance alongside that. The other recommendation is to adopt this to get us through the January 1st timeline and then we'll have the time to look at it and make amendments later. Mayor Clark commented that I tend to agree with Council Member Dang that I want to see the differences and the options. Expressed my fear is if we just adopt it today and then we decide we might want to change it, but somebody could say, well, you already adopted it. So, I would like to see if they can bring back the comparison to the next meeting in October, and then we could decide. Council Member Dang stated I think what Mayor Clark is saying that if, for instance, if we decide on January 1st to enforce the California Code, and once they pay the fee, they are locked into that code based that we agreed upon it. If something that is more lenient than we normally do, we're actually obligated to have the designer have those leniency. Building Official Jefferson affirmed that is correct. By consensus, the City Council directed staff to bring back this item to the October 28th meeting for first reading, which will include the analysis requested by Council Member Dang, followed by the second reading at the first meeting of December. 5. MATTERS FROM CITY MANAGER & STAFF A. Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-53, Establishing Salary and Benefits for the Classifications in the Unrepresented Executive Management Group from July 1, 2025 Through June 30, 2027 Resolution No. 2025-53, describes the salary and benefits for the Executive Management employees of the City effective July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027. Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-53, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD FROM JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2027 City Manager Kim stated this resolution is for the salary and benefit package for the Executive Management Group for a two-year period between July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027. This is a follow-up to the labor negotiation that we've been having Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 11 of 18 with all of the groups, including the Executives, the Professional and Confidential, the Mid-Management, and the Rosemead Employees Association (REA) group. The other groups have been approved tonight, except the Professional Confidential Group; indicated that they'll need to follow. Reiterated this item is only for the Executive Management Group that consists of the Assistant City Manager/Finance Director, Director of Public Works, Director of Community Development, Director of Parks and Recreation, and Director of Public Safety. The prior MOU or labor negotiation for this group was approved by the City Council on July 8, 2025. However, the negotiation with the REA group was just finalized, and so we're bringing this back for a revision to add a couple of items that the REA and Mid- Management group have received. Mr. Kim commented that we would need an amendment to that labor negotiation benefit package for the following items: 1) vacation accrual for only employees with 20 years or more service, providing an accrual rate of 180 hours; and 2) adding one floating holiday, which will begin in the calendar year 2026. Asserted that this amendment is being proposed to be consistent with the labor negotiation for the other groups within the city. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta inquired if it is possible to table this item; commented as I have shared before with our City Manager, just because one group receives certain things doesn't necessarily mean that all groups should. There's some groups get a little bit more so that they could have a living wage and to apply the same straight across when other groups are already making living wage, we really need to discuss this further. City Manager Kim clarified the other groups have negotiated a 3% COLA, however the Executive Group actually opted not to take the 3% to be consistent with the other groups. Explained this MOU maintains the 2% COLA that was approved in July 8th of this year. So, this amendment to this MOU for the Executive Group does not include the 3% COLA. The only thing that is being added is the one floating holiday that all the other employees will be getting as of next year and the vacation accrual for employees that have remained with us for 20 years and longer. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta responded I understand that. Asked did we not also vote to give all the unrepresented Executive Management Team a 6% merit increase each year? City Manager Kim answered no, the merit increase varies and is based on the annual evaluation. There are five ratings – Scoring of one, two, three, four, and five. Provided the following breakdown: A three (3) rating meets expectation for a 3%; A four (4) rating exceeds expectation for 6%; and the five (5) rating substantially exceeds expectation for a 9%. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta inquired if those are the same percentage that we give all the other employees? Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 12 of 18 City Manager Kim affirmed that is the same percentage given to the other employees. ACTION: Motion by Council Member Dang, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Armenta to adopt Resolution No. 2025-53, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD FROM JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2027 Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: ARMENTA, CLARK, AND DANG; NOES: NONE; ABSENT: LOW AND LY 6. MATTERS FROM MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL A. Request to Proclaim October 10, 2025 as National Day of the Republic of China, (Taiwan) On September 9, 2025, the City Council reviewed a request from the Taiwan Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles for the City to issue a proclamation for this year, recognizing October 10, 2025, as National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan). This day commemorates the founding of the Republic of China (Taiwan) on October 10, 1911, recognized as the first democratic republic in Asia. The City Council tabled the item pending additional information from the requestors before making a final decision. Recommendation: The City Council approve the request to issue, for this year, a proclamation declaring October 10, 2025, as National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan). City Manager Kim shared that on September 9th, the City Council reviewed a request from Taiwan, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office to issue a proclamation for this year recognizing October 10th, 2025 as the National Day of Republic of China or Taiwan. This celebrates Taiwan's 1010 recognition as the first democratic republic in Asia. Mayor Clark noted at the last meeting, a request was made to have a representative from TECO present to us at the next meeting. Alan Chung-Yu-Fong, representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Los Angeles, stated it is my great honor to witness the proclamation to be adopted by the Rosemead City Council, recognizing October 10th, 2025 as the National Day of the Republic of China, Taiwan. We celebrate this day as a commemoration of the start of the Wuchang Uprising on October 10th, 1911, which ultimately led to the establishment of the Republic of China. Expressed I am immensely grateful to all those who joined today, expressing their unwavering Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 13 of 18 support and honoring Taiwan's freedom, democracy, education, cultural heritage, technology, and economic development. I'm proud to say that Taiwan and United States partnership and relationship is stronger than ever. Taiwan's total trade with the United States was 158.6 billion in 2024, making it the United States' seventh largest trading partner. The United States has become the primary destination for nearly half of Taiwan's overseas investment. Taiwan's core strengths in high-tech manufacturing and precision industry will provide key support for the United States re- industrialization policy, thereby creating more jobs and economic prosperity for the people of both countries. Bilateral economic trade and technology cooperation will also become more robust and different. This proclamation is a powerful affirmation of the close friendship and shared values between the people of Taiwan and the United States. Thank you all again and may the Taiwan-US partnership continue to flourish and bring prosperity to both our peoples. Mayor Clark opened the Public Comment period. Speaker Denny Shen, resident of South San Gabriel, noting however, even though it's within the County of LA, on my mailbox address, it says Rosemead, so I consider myself a resident of Rosemead. This evening I came with a lot of excitement and passion because I'm asking the Council to approve the double 10th as the Republic of China's day to celebrate the birthday of a Republic of China. I think it's a very, very important event because it has a lot of connotations, a lot of potential. By doing so, we can see a lot of opportunities to recognize Republic of China for its birthday. With that recognition, we can promote a lot of communication, promote a lot of opportunities, cultural exchange, economic exchange. There's a lot of potential that's coming from the island of Taiwan. However, locally speaking, we have a vast amount of Chinese and Asian residents residing in the City of Rosemead as well as the San Gabriel Valley. By recognizing the double tenth as the national birthday of Republic of China, it creates a very, very positive image among the Asian communities. I think it will provide tremendous possibility for foreign investments to be made in the city, a lot of activities to be initiated within the City of Rosemead and therefore promoting a lot of additional tax income, possibilities for success and visibility. I would recommend the City to adopt the double 10th as a national birthday of Republic of China. Speaker Joan Fan, stated I've been a resident in United States for about 40 years, I know Rosemead has a sister city in Taiwan. Opined since we already have such a good relationship, let’s celebrate double ten our national day so residents can be even more excited to live in this city. I support the city passing this request for the date of the double 10 as a national celebration for Taiwan. Due to continuous clapping in the audience, City Attorney Richman stated as a rule of decorum, we do not encourage clapping during Public Comment; explained this way everyone feels comfortable to make whatever comments they want to without concerns of applause or booing. Speaker Chu Qing Wang shared that he came to the United States in the 1980s and is a proud UCLA graduate as he got a PhD in Civil Engineering. Indicated under Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 14 of 18 normal condition, he would have a two- or three-piece suit for the City Council meeting, however this is a special occasion, so this is my celebration mode dress; noting I'm actually wearing Republic of China's national flag. Emphasized Rosemead and the San Gabriel Valley has a lot of immigrants that came from Taiwan. Opined immigrants from Taiwan have contributed quite a bit to the success of Rosemead’s economy with businesses such as 888 Seafood Restaurant. Shared that he is also a former President of the Taiwan Benevolent Association of California (TBAC); asked all the TBAC members present tonight to stand up so they could be recognized, noted we are sharing in this excitement together. Expressed we are hoping Rosemead will consider celebrating the national day for Republic of China next year as well. Thank you. Speaker Cindy Wu, stated she is a community member of Rosemead; shared a brief history of Taiwan. The roots of modern Taiwan are clearly tied to the history of Kuomintang, or Chinese Nationalist Party, founded in 1912 by Dr. San Yin Sun after the fall Qing dynasty. The KMT sought to modernize and unify China based on Dr. Sun's three principles of the people – nationalism, democracy, and people's livelihood. Once in Taiwan the KMT governed under the Marshall Law, but only launched sweeping land reforms and economic policies that sparked what became known as the Taiwan Miracle, a period of rapid industrial growth transformed the island into one of Asia's most dynamic economies. Beginning in the 1980s, leader like Zhang Jingguo and Lee Denghui initiated democratic reforms, lifting Marshall Law, allowing opposition parties and holding free elections. In 1996, Taiwan held its first direct presidential election, making a historical moment in its transition to full democracy. Today, Taiwan officially known as a Republic of China, ROC, a thriving democracy with a multi-party system, free press, independent judiciary, vibrant civil society. Economically, Taiwan is a global leader in advancing technology and innovation, playing a critical role in the development of the digital economy and serving as a trusted partner international trade and security. The story of Taiwan is a story of resilience, adaptation, and democratic value from its early struggles to its modern achievements. Taiwan stands today not only as an economic leader, also as a beacon of freedom and democracy in the Asian Pacific region. We urge the City Council to vote yes on the proclamation, recognizing this important history and the sheer value between Taiwan and our community. Speaker Gloria Chu, expressed support for double ten Proclamation. Speaker Jenny Liu, stated I am a proud Chinese American and want to express my deep appreciation for your consideration to proclaim October 10th as the National Day for the Republic of China, Taiwan. Expressed that the Republic of China's Taiwan National Day is not just a holiday to me, but also a reminder that freedom must be protected and celebrated. Seeing the City of Rosemead recognize this day would mean so much not only to Chinese Americans, like myself, but to everyone who believes in democracy, freedom, hard work, and compassion. Point out that LA County has already taken this step, officially proclaiming October 10th as the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan), passed by the County Board of Supervisor on October 8, 2024. We hope the City of Rosemead can do the same and stand with those who share these values by supporting this proclamation, not out of politics, but out of heart. Emphasized honoring this national holiday is honoring the spirit of Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 15 of 18 freedom, resilience, unity we all cherish as Americans as member of these diverse San Gabriel Valley community. Thanked Council for the opportunity to stand here tonight to share her pride as a Chinese American, and to express how thankful I am to live in a country where freedom is valued, honored, protected, and shared by all. Speaker Amy Wu, thanked Council for the opportunity for the consideration for this proclamation. I am here today to express my support for declaring October 10th as the National Day of the Republic of China, Taiwan. The City of Rosemead and the City of Keelung, Taiwan have a longstanding Sister City relationship, our City Council, including Mayor Clark and Mayor Pro Tem Armenta, have both visited Taiwan, as part of the Sister City delegation, creating friendship between the two. Highlighted it's really about the friendship between the two and exchanging cultural, economic ideas; asked Council to support this Proclamation. Speaker Yin Chang, stated she used to serve on the City of Rosemead’s Beautification Committee, which is now called the Beautification Commission. There's a lot of community people from Taiwan that live and/or do business in Rosemead. Expressed support for the City of Rosemead to recognize October 10th as the national birthday for Republic of China, Taiwan, as it will not only help ROC, but also uplift the image of the City of Rosemead. Shared she hopes this recognition can open more relationships for Rosemead with other cities in Taiwan, including Gao Shun and Taipei City. Speaker Andy Guo, stated he is from Hacienda Heights, but is now living in Rosemead. I'm supporting the Taiwanese request to celebrate October 10th as National Day of Republic of China. Shared that his family and him moved from mainland China to the United States, noting they had no friends or anybody to help them when they moved. He remembered the first person that talked to them was a Taiwanese woman and she was so helpful with registering for school, highlighted that I got my master’s degree, doubled in engineering and aerospace engineering. The woman even encouraged us to leave our apartment and put a downpayment on a home, so I am grateful as I have two kids and have a happy life here in Rosemead, which is why I wanted to show up here tonight to support this proclamation. Speaker Amber Sung indicated she was the past President of the Taiwan Benevolent Association California and joined the Chinese University Alumni Association. Opined this proclamation is really powerful as an affirmation of a close friendship and that we share value between the people of China and the United States of America. We really hope that National Day of China is recognized, not only this year, but also continues celebrating it for many years to come. There being no further comments, Mayor Clark closed the Public Comment period’ Mayor Clark read the following remarks from Council Member Low since she was not able to make tonight’s meeting. “Dear Honorable Mayor and City Council, Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 16 of 18 I would like to apologize for not being able to attend the City Council meeting tonight. My comment on Item 6A is as follows: It is my understanding that the request for a proclamation designating October 10, 2025, as the National Day of the Republic of China was submitted by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles. As a Council Member and representative of our city, I believe I have the responsibility to stand with all residents and members of our business community. Rosemead is a very diverse city, home to people and businesses from many parts of the world, including different regions of Asia. It would be challenging to recognize every group or country represented here, yet it would also be unfair to honor some but not others. I have many close friends from Taiwan, and in fact, I am flying there tonight. However, I believe the city should focus primarily on issues that directly affect our residents, as we still have much important work to do. Out of respect for the TECO office, I am willing to support this proclamation this year. Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts.” Council Member Dang asked for clarification on Council Member Low’s wishes from her statement – she said she will support the proclamation this year and not the following year. Mayor Clark responded well, she didn't say not the following year, but she did indicate specifically yes for this year. Commented in my opinion we don't have to do it forever, and it can be considered as requested on a yearly basis. Council Member Dang emphasized I want to ensure if we approve the proclamation tonight that it is not being added to our official Proclamation list that is automatically generated yearly. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta shared that her first teaching assignment was at a Taiwanese Christian school and that is where I learned a lot of the history and understood the Taiwanese people. Noted there's 16 tribes, but the 12 indigenous tribes of Taiwan. I was very blessed to have gone to Taiwan in October of 2017 and was able to visit the National Palace Museum. Opined Rosemead has a very rich connection with Taiwan, notably only we have the Taiwan Foundation Center of Greater Los Angeles and the University of the West. Our realia, cap and gown the University of the West is in that national museum, so not only are they investing in Rosemead, they're also showcasing Rosemead in Taiwan by having one of our realia’s in the National Palace Museum. I can't stress enough the relationship that we have with Taiwan, specifically with Keelung, our Sister City. Recalled we were there at the Palace in Taiwan visiting with the president on 1010, it was something that I'll never forget. It was a great celebration to see how everybody came together and are very proud of their heritage and culture. We need to make sure that we address that here in the City of Rosemead. Expressed, it only makes sense for Rosemead to adopt a proclamation to show not only that we're supporting them, but to thank them for investing in our city. Council Member Dang thanked all the Taiwanese-Americans here tonight. Shared that he actually visited Taiwan two weeks ago, and it is a very beautiful city. Everyone was great, very warm, very open-armed. At the same time, it was really amazing. I went to the museum and saw Taiwan blossoming and becoming an economic powerhouse with software, CPUs, a lot of that power is amazing Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 17 of 18 considering that Taiwan is just a very small island. You guys are very talented and hardworking people. I really respect that. Mr. Dang reviewed the City’s Proclamation List, examples of the subjects included are Mental Health month, Municipal City Clerks Week, National Public Works Week, National Night Out, Asian American Heritage Month, etc.; stated in my perspective, a proclamation shouldn't be targeting one particular date in time, so for instance the Taiwan proclamation should recognize the beauty of the Taiwan people, rather than a history date. Suggested rephrasing the proclamation verbiage to say that the City of Rosemead recognizes the beauty, the language, the food, all the cultural differences that make you unique and which makes you so important in contributing to the vibrant culture of the San Gabriel Valley and to the residents of Rosemead. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta pointed out that we have honored other cultures in our city, sometimes through a proclamation like Hispanic Heritage Month, but in other ways such as allowing the Vietnamese heritage flag to be flown on our street. Stated I respect my colleague’s point of view but must highlight that it is not unusual for the City of Rosemead to stand behind a culture. Mayor Clark expressed that she is very much in support of this resolution because we have such a long-standing Sister City relationship with them. Mrs. Clark shared when she went in 1992, they were given the red-carpet treatment, like royalty. Reiterated we don't have to do this every year, but I support doing it this year. Noted that she also spoke to Council Member Steven Ly who is very much in favor of this; in fact, he even wanted me to postpone it to the next meeting that he is returning to. Council Member Dang reiterated that a proclamation should be more global, inclusive, and of course just recognizing Taiwan and its contributions to everything in life; shared that is more of a powerful proclamation in my opinion. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta asked the City Clerk if we have a set standard for proclamations? If this Council ever voted or finalized criteria for proclamations? City Clerk Hernandez responded no specific criteria has been set, but I believe in 2021 the City Council opted to have a list of proclamations that any new ones that were not included on that list would be brought for Council's consideration if they were requested first, then a presentation would be scheduled once it was approved. Mayor Clark made a motion to approve the recommendation. Council Member Dang made a substitute motion to propose a proclamation celebrating the beauty of the Taiwanese people and culture for the entire month, rather than pinpointing a specific date of their history. Mayor Pro Tem Armenta made a friendly amendment to Council Member Dang’s substitute motion to keep the language for this year, 2025, then next year Council can consider recognizing October as Taiwanese Cultural Heritage Month. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2025 Page 18 of 18 Council Member Dang responded with all due respect, thank you for that amendment. At this time, I will withdraw my substitute motion. City Attorney Richman clarified since Council Member Dang withdrew his substitute motion; we're back to the original motion to approve the proclamation. ACTION: Motion by Mayor Clark, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Armenta to approve the request to issue, for this year, a proclamation declaring October 10, 2025, as National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan), and agendize the presentation of the proclamation for the next Council meeting. Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: ARMENTA, CLARK, AND DANG; NOES: NONE; ABSENT: LOW AND LY B. Council Comments Mayor Pro Tem Armenta thanked Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking, his team, and the Public Works Team for a beautiful Fall Fiesta and Día de los Muertos event and a great way to embrace culture in the city of Rosemead. It had the most amazing drone show, so I recommend that all of you come next year because I think we're going to do that year again. Stated she looks forward to our upcoming Halloween festivities including the Trunk or Treat event. Mayor Clark shared that she attended the League of California City's Annual Conference in Long Beach; noted there were discussions on homelessness, which she is very passionate about, getting the mentally ill into treatment and the drug addicted into treatment. Expressed she enjoyed being able to talk to other Council Members and mayors and see what they think about it. So I enjoyed it very much. 7. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Clark adjourned the meeting at 8:48 p.m. ________________________ Ericka Hernandez, City Clerk APPROVED: _______________________ Margaret Clark, Mayor