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CC - Minutes - 09-22-20 • MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING SEPTEMBER 22,2020 The special meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Armenta at 6:08 p.m.,in the Rosemead Community Recreation Center located at 3936 N. Muscatel Avenue, Rosemead, CA 91770. PRESENT: Mayor Armenta, Mayor Pro Tern Low, Council Members Clark, Dang, and Ly ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: City Attorney Richman and City Clerk Hernandez Mayor Armenta recessed the meeting to Closed Session at 6:09 p.m. 1. CLOSED SESSION A. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION Government Code Section: 54957 Title: City Manager Mayor Armenta reconvened back to Open Session at 8:44 p.m. City Attorney Richman reported out of Closed Session with the following action by the City Council. ACTION: Motion by Council Member Ly, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Low to indicate that the City Council appreciates the staff and the City Manager's commitment to the City during these trying times. The motion was carried out by roll call vote: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low, and Ly ABSENT: None 2. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Armenta adjourned the special meeting at 8:44 p.m. to the September 22, 2020 regular meeting, at 7:00 p.m. in the Rosemead City Hall Council Chamber. .40 Ericka 'ernandez, City Clerk APPROVED: (04461 trA. 9In t/I,c pc Sandra Armenta, Myr Rosemead City Council Special Meeting Minutes of September 22, 2020 Page 1 of 1 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 22, 2020 The regular meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Armenta at 8:45 p.m., in the Rosemead City Council Chamber located at 8838 East Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, California. PRESENT: Mayor Armenta, Mayor Pro Tem Low, Council Members Clark, Dang and Ly (teleconferenced) ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Molleda, Assistant City Manager Kim, City Attorney Richman, Chief of Police Lieutenant Duong, Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo, Interim Director of Finance Miller, Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking, Director of Public Works Daste, and City Clerk Hernandez PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was led by Mayor Pro Tem Low INVOCATION was led by Council Member Dang 1. PUBLIC COMMENT Speaker Karla Carvajal submitted a public comment by phone stating she received a citation for parking on the 7500 block of Hellman Avenue, on the street in front of the Silver Lake Medical Center. She explained that for over 18 years, she and her neighbors have lived in apartments and only have one parking space within the complex. They have been able to park additional cars on the street without receiving a citation. Then last week, unexpectedly and without notification, they received a citation for parking on that same block. She stated that although new "No Parking" signage was installed, it is unfair to start citing residents without sending proper notification of such change. She was concerned that many people are working from home during the pandemic, including herself. As a teacher, she is in back-to-back Zoom meetings from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and cannot leave her class to move her car. She asked that the City address this matter so that other residents are aware of the no parking on the 7500 block of Hellman Avenue (corner of Prospect Avenue). City Manager Molleda stated that City staff had recently replaced a "No Parking" sign that was missing at that area. Mayor Armenta asked City staff to reach out to Ms. Carvajal. 2. PRESENTATIONS A. Proclamation Declaring the Month of September 2020 as "National Preparedness Month" in the City of Rosemead Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page I of 18 Council Member Clark commended Public Safety Supervisor Mandy Wong and her team for keeping the City prepared in case of an emergency. Public Safety Supervisor Wong thanked the City Council for their continuous support on emergency preparedness efforts. The recent earthquake in Rosemead is a reminder to get your basic emergency supplies to last 7-10 days. She accepted the Proclamation declaring September as "National Preparedness Month". Mayor Pro Tem Low commended Ms. Wong for always working with the community to educate the residents about emergency preparedness. Council Member Dang recognized Ms. Wong for her work and always making sure the City is always prepared. Council Member Ly thanked staff for their hard work in keeping the City and the community up to date on preparedness information. Mayor Armenta thanked Ms. Wong for her hard work in overseeing the City's HAM radio and CERT program. She added Ms. Wong always makes sure the City is well prepared for any emergency. B. Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Year -End Summary Presentation Interim Director of Finance Miller reported on the City's current unaudited financial results. He explained staff projected the City's economic forecast based on the limited data available for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019-2020 General Fund during a May presentation to the City Council. In the estimated Fiscal Year 19-20 budget, City staff projected a $2.7 million deficit in the General Fund budget. Staff believed City expenditures were going to be above what was predicted in terms of the amended budget. After reviewing the City's revenues and expenditures for the 19-20 fiscal year-end budget, the City had a $910,000 surplus to the General Fund reserve. The General Fund will end up at $24 million at the end of the June 30, 2020, Fiscal Year. The hardest-hit revenues were Sales Tax, Transient Occupancy Tax, and Building Permits/Plan Fees. At the same time, Sales Tax was better than anticipated due to an average 33% increase in pooled sales tax funds from internet sales throughout the state. Property Tax, Franchise Fees, and Public Safety Fees remained stable or slightly increased. However, Parks and Recreation fees decreased significantly due to cancelling of all recreation classes. Lastly, grants received and other fees and revenues were stable. Council Member Dang asked if the Plan Check Fees were the final fees collected after the consultant's fees. Interim Finance Director Miller responded the Plan Check Fees revenue is the gross revenue before the consultant's fees. He continued with the presentation and explained the City's economic environment did slump from projected increases in FY 18-19 to FY 19-20. In addition, looking at the FY 20-21, while Federal Aid Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 2 of 18 from the CARES ACT Funds will help with some General Fund issues, as COVID-19 Emergency continues, forecasting revenues was difficult to predict. Department Expenditures were estimated at $24 million, and since Departments monitored their spending, they only spent $22 million for Fiscal Year 19-20. Council Member Clark asked for clarification on how sales tax is pooled from online purchases. Interim Director of Finance Miller explained when online purchases are made, the sales tax charge is based on the State's sales tax formula of about 8%, and on top of that other miscellaneous County taxes are added. Further explained that everyone that deserves sales tax, out of the regular sales tax, gets a percentage of the online sales tax pool based on their City's population. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked what the revenues for Other Fees and Revenues were. Interim Director of Finance Miller replied that other fees and revenues were miscellaneous revenues that included about forty different varied revenues such as passport fees, copying fees, notary fees, etc. Mayor Pro Tem Low inquired how each of the City Departments reduced some of their expenditures. Interim Director of Finance Miller stated City Departments spent less by limiting their purchases of equipment and supplies. In addition, the cost towards part-time hours was not used since recreation classes were cancelled; other vacancies were left empty for a longer period. Council Member Ly commended staff for their work on the City's financial stability. Council Member Dang noted construction increases during the summer; therefore, the $1.5 million in revenue for Plan Check Fees was good considering the COVID- 19 pandemic started in mid-March. He asked what grant revenues the City received. Interim Director of Finance Miller replied many developers were waiting to see how the pandemic affected the economy, but many still proceeded with projects. The grant line item includes grants that go to the General Fund, such as the Census Grant and Recycling Grant that could be spent on General Fund expenses. Mayor Armenta asked for clarification of the unaudited versus the audited criteria. Interim Director of Finance Miller explained that once the auditors come in to do their audit, they will sometimes review and ask that some items get booked differently instead of how the staff may book a line item, resulting in some balance changes in the actual budget balance. The books are considered unaudited because we have not had the independent auditor review provide their feedback on the books or present the City's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report yet. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 3 of 18 Mayor Armenta stated that she recalled staff mentioning a $4 million deficit for Fiscal Year 19-20, and now there is a surplus. Interim Director of Finance Miller replied that staff reported the worst-case scenario by projecting estimated deficits for Fiscal Year 19-20 and the projected deficit for Fiscal Year 20-21 and totaled the estimated $4 million deficit. Since closing the books, there is a surplus, and the revenue for Fiscal Year 20-21 is looking better than what was projected. 3. PUBLIC HEARING - None 4. CONSENT CALENDAR Agenda Items D and E were pulled for separate discussion. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Clark and seconded by Council Member Dang to approve Consent Calendar Items A through C, with the exception of Items D and E. Motion was carried out by the following roll call vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low and Ly ABSENT: None A. Claims and Demands • Resolution No. 2020-36 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $1,413,714.02 NUMBERED 107410 THROUGH NUMBER 107481 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-36. B. Approval of Minutes Recommendation: That the City Council adopt the regular meeting minutes of October 22, 2019. C. Biennial Review and Update of the City's Conflict of Interest List of Designated Positions Pursuant to Adoption of Resolution No. 2020-35 The Political Reform Act (California Government Code 81000) controls conflicts of interest of public officials through disclosure of financial interest and prohibitions on participation in the making of decisions in which the official knows or has reason to know he or she has financial interest. Pursuant to California Government Code 87306, each city is required to have a conflict of interest code, review its code biennially, and make amendments, if necessary. The biennial review requires that the City designate employees who must disclose certain Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 4 of 18 investments, income, interests in real property, and business positions, and who must disqualify themselves from making or participating in the making of governmental decisions affecting those interests. Recommendation: That the City Council review and approve the changes to the City's Conflict of Interest Code by adopting Resolution No. 2020-35, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, UPDATING THE LIST OF DESIGNATED POSITIONS REQUIRED UNDER THE CITY'S CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE ITEMS PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION D. Assignment of Professional Services Agreement to RRM Design Group for Updates to the Housing Element and Public Safety Element, and the Incorporation of Environmental Justice Policies in the General Plan The City's current Housing Element, which covers the planning period of 2014- 2021, was adopted on November 12, 2013, by the City Council and certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) in December 2013. Per State law, the City is required to update its Housing Element every eight years, and HCD has established October 15, 2021 as the deadline for certification of the City's adopted Housing Element for the 2021-2029 planning period. The Housing Element shall demonstrate that the City has sufficient capacity to accommodate the number of housing units identified in the Regional Housing Needs Assessment. In addition, a focused update to the City's Public Safety Element is required as part of this process to satisfy SB 379, as well as, the incorporation of Environmental Justice Policies throughout the General Plan are required pursuant to SB 1000, triggered by the amendment of more than one General Plan Element update. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with RRM Design Group to assist in the preparation of the 2021-2029 Housing Element, update to the Public Safety Element, and incorporation of Environmental Justice policies throughout the General Plan; and 2. Appropriate $150,000 from the General Fund Reserve Balance for Fiscal Year 2020-21. The City has secured LEAP Grants in the amount of $150,000 as reimbursement. Council Member Dang commended staff for obtaining a grant to offset the cost to update to the Housing Element. He inquired about the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) numbers allocated to the City of Rosemead. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 5 of 18 Planning and Economic Development Manager Valenzuela explained that the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), sent the City the draft allocations of the Regional Housing Needs Assessments (RHNA) numbers that allocated 1.3 million units to the region. The City was allocated 4,601 units requiring the City to accommodate low housing, affordable, moderate, and above- average housing. Council Member Dang reiterated the state was imposing the mandate to address the housing shortage. He commended City staff for working towards trying to meet the RHNA numbers. Council Member Clark stated during the last cycle, the required RHNA numbers were 602 units, and now it was at 4,604 units, a 750 percent increase. She explained when she sat on the Regional Council for SCAG, many cities were opposing the rise in RHNA numbers; noted another city was pushing to make most of the housing on cities that already were built out. The areas that have the land and could have made these housing units easily, did not have to provide the required housing units. Lastly, she stated she researched the company and contacted the last City they worked in and received a good recommendation. She made a motion to approve the professional services agreement with RRM Design Group. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked what happens if a City cannot meet the RHNA numbers. Council Member Clark expressed that is what is concerning, Sacramento is trying to weaponize the numbers. If a city does not meet the RHNA numbers, Sacramento will find ways to fine them. We do not build housing; we zone for it. Developers have to want to come into the City, and since redevelopment was taken away, we do not have the tools. We need to have low-income housing, but the developers won't do that unless we incentivize it and we don't have the money to do that. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Clark and seconded by Council Member Ly to take the following actions: Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with RRM Design Group to assist in the preparation of the 2021-2029 Housing Element, update to the Public Safety Element, and incorporation of Environmental Justice policies throughout the General Plan; and 2. Appropriate $150,000 from the General Fund Reserve Balance for Fiscal Year 2020-21. The City has secured LEAP Grants in the amount of $150,000 as reimbursement. Motion was carried out by the following roll call vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low and Ly ABSENT: None E. Memorandum of Understanding with Rosemead Employees Association and Salary and Benefits Resolutions for the Rosemead Employees Association, the Middle Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 6 of 18 Management, Professional, and Confidential Unit, Management Unit and Part - Time Employees The City Council will consider approval of a one-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Rosemead Employees Association (REA) covering all General Service employees. The corresponding Resolution No. 2020-37 details the terms and conditions of employment and salary ranges for their represented members effective July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021. Resolution No. 2020-38 describes the salary and benefits for Middle Management, Professional, and Confidential (MMPC) employees effective July 1, 2020. Resolution No. 2020-39 describes the salary and benefits for the Management Unit effective July 1, 2020. The amendments to the Resolution include language consistent with the 2020-2021 MOU with the City of Rosemead's Employees Association. Additionally, Resolution No. 2020-40 describes the salary and benefits for part- time employees effective July 1, 2020. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Approve the Memorandum of Understanding with the Rosemead Employees Association ending June 30, 2021; 2. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-37, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE GENERAL SERVICES UNIT OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; 3. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-38, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE MIDDLE MANAGEMENT, PROFESSIONAL, AND CONFIDENTIAL SERVICE OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; 4. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-39, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 7 of 18 CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE MANAGEMENT SERVICE OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; 5. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-40, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR PART-TIME CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE SERVICE OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; and 6. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-41, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING THE COMPREHENSIVE SALARY SCHEDULE FOR ALL FULL-TIME CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD Mayor Armenta noted the Staff Report stated, "As a result, the successor MOU provides no increase in salary and/or benefit costs." She stated that some positions were being upgraded with higher salaries and benefits when the budget was approved and voted on. Expressed concern that other positions will not get any increases in their salary or benefits. City Manager Molleda explained that a salary survey was not going to occur this current year and clarified that merit increases were not being taken away. When an employee gets their evaluation, they are entitled to their merit increase. Mayor Armenta stated she understood how the Staff Report read, however, wanted to clarify if no increases in salary and benefit costs also meant employees were not getting their merit increases. Mayor Pro Tem Low noted the table in the Staff Report showed that if an employee received a specific rating, they could get an increase. City Manager Molleda clarified there was no additional money being requested than what had been budgeted. Council Member Ly explained that an employee gets a merit increase until they meet the cap and are then considered "Y" rated. Mayor Armenta stated she wanted her comments to reflect her previous concerns on upgrading positions when she felt it was inappropriate during the COVID-19 pandemic. She asked if the employees agreed with the MOU. City Manager Molleda replied yes, the employees agreed with the terms in the MOU. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 8of18 Council Member Ly clarified that the City Council would do its best to protect its employees. Therefore, the City Council has to make sure that benefits and salaries are comparable to those of the surrounding communities and constant with what is going on right now in the environment. Mayor Armenta asked about the cost -of -living adjustment (COLA). City Manager Molleda replied there were no cost -of -living adjustments because the City switched to the merit base increases. Council Member Ly reaffirmed the changes that took place over 13 years ago to provide merit increases instead of COLA's. Council Member Dang asked for clarification on the verbiage stating, "In addition the language was added to include a 2.5 increase for employees with an insufficient basis for evaluation". City Manager Molleda explained since there will not be a salary survey this year, the 2.5 increase makes salaries more comparable with other surrounding cities. Mayor Armenta asked for clarification on how the salary surveys are factored into the increases. City Manager Molleda explained that there are 11 cities in the MOU that are surveyed every two years. The data from the 11 cities is then compared to the City's salary schedule. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Ly and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Low to take the following actions: 1. Approve the Memorandum of Understanding with the Rosemead Employees Association ending June 30, 2021; 2. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-37, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE GENERAL SERVICES UNIT OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; 3. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-38, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 9 of 18 CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE MIDDLE MANAGEMENT, PROFESSIONAL, AND CONFIDENTIAL SERVICE OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; 4. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-39, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE MANAGEMENT SERVICE OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; 5. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-40, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING ANNUAL SALARY RANGES AND BENEFITS FOR PART-TIME CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE SERVICE OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD; and 6. Adopt Resolution No. 2020-41, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING THE COMPREHENSIVE SALARY SCHEDULE FOR ALL FULL-TIME CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD Motion was carried out by the following roll call vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low and Ly ABSENT: None 5. MATTERS FROM CITY MANAGER & STAFF A. Update on the Public Safety Center Renovation Project This item is to provide the City Council a progress update and present the proposed design of the Public Safety Center renovation project. Recommendation: That the City Council receive and file. Assistant City Manager Kim presented a PowerPoint presentation updating the City Council about the Public Safety Center renovation project. The proposed improvements include upgrades to reduce the service cost and response times; provide residents a facility that they can access instead of traveling to the Temple Sheriff Station; increase Deputy Sheriffs' presence on the south end of the City; additional improvements to the Public Safety Center to include faster internet speed, which is currently being worked on; and provide a secure parking lot, an Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 10 of 18 armory room, changing lockers, an interview room, a separate restroom for deputies and the public, and video surveillance throughout the building's perimeter. Mr. Kim explained the renovation includes a secured parking lot created on the turf area and hardscape, where the existing parking lot is located. There will be an 8 -foot wall connecting the parking lot and creating a secure walkway for deputies. The Public Safety Center's proposed interior is to remove a storage room to provide access to the outside of the building. Changing the existing two restrooms and dividing them to create two additional restrooms for the staff and deputies only. A new outside customer window will be created to conduct additional transactions. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked how many deputies can be stationed in a work area. Chief of Police Lieutenant Duong replied there will be six computers and can accommodate up to six deputies at the same time. An additional desk will accommodate another six deputies, but about 10-15 deputies can be in the facility at any given time. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked how the new proposed floor plan suited the deputies better than the current floor plan. Chief of Police Lieutenant Duong explained there is no area the deputies can check- in and change into their uniforms in the current floor plan. The new floor plan will allow deputies to be permanently placed at the Public Safety Center and have a space to change. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked for clarification on who would be stationed at the Public Safety Center since Rosemead has its special Assignment Team and regular patrol deputies. Chief of Police Lieutenant Duong replied the special Assignment Team would be stationed at Public Safety Center, and the regular patrol deputies would still come from Temple Station. Mayor Pro Tem Low inquired if the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) would continue to be at Public Safety Center or moved to another location. City Manager Molleda stated there had been conversations about relocating the Emergency Operation Center to the Rosemead Community Recreation Center as it has a large space, but nothing had been finalized. Council Member Clark expressed concern with relocating the Emergency Operation Center. She stated that using the Community Center as an EOC would be a problem because the facility is used for community events. If there was an earthquake while a community event was being held at the community center, then the emergency equipment needed to operate would not be secure at the EOC. Explained during an earthquake, people usually are shaken and scared, and somebody could take advantage of that situation and steal equipment. The Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 11 of 18 Emergency Operation Center should remain at the Public Safety Center where equipment is secure as the deputies are stationed and prepared for emergencies there. She reiterated that when Council mentioned relocating Public Safety Supervisor Mandy Wong, three Council Members were opposed to relocating her during a past discussion. City Attorney Richman cautioned the City Council about discussing a topic that is not specifically about the Public Safety renovation item. Council Member Clark assured City Attorney Richman the Emergency Operation Center concerns the Public Safety Center renovation. She explained although the item is a receive and file, the updates on what is being proposed at the Public Safety Center also involves what will happen to the Emergency Operation Center. Mayor Armenta reiterated the Public Safety Center acts as the Emergency Operation Center as well. Council Member Ly stated that at a previous discussion, former Chief of Police Kusayanagi talked about response rates and noted that one of the struggles deputies have is driving from Temple Station to Rosemead. The time it takes to cross the freeways underpass and traffic near the on -ramps and off -ramps. By relocating some deputies to the Public Safety Center, access to the south end of the City during an emergency will be much faster. Mr. Ly asked about the corrugated metal protective wall barrier being proposed. Chief of Police Lieutenant Duong replied the barrier is only for concealment purposes. Council Member Ly suggested a concrete block wall be installed to create a secured walkway to protect deputies. He opined that relocating the Emergency Operation Center should be assessed and warrants further conversation. He noted that if the Emergency Operation Center had to be activated during the pandemic, social distancing would be an issue, and the current room would be ineffective. He expressed support for the renovation of the Public Safety Center to reduce response times, improve community access and increase police presence. In response to Council Member Ly's comments, Chief of Police Lieutenant Duong reiterated that deputies stationed at Public Safety Center would be more accessible to stay in the City's south end of the city. Deputies could drive to Public Safety Center when delivering evidence instead of driving north to Temple Station and driving back to the City. Council Member Dang expressed support of the proposed renovations to the Public Safety Center to improve the response times and access to the residents. Also, the topic on the Emergency Operation Center could be brought back at a future meeting for discussion. He suggested that an Emergency Operation Center not be near Southern California Edison towers. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 12 of 18 Mayor Armenta stated she supports the Public Safety Center renovations; however, expressed concern about relocating the Emergency Operation Center to the Rosemead Community Recreation Center. She noted that the Emergency Operation Center should remain on the southside of the City should an emergency prevent access to one side of the City. She asked who the decision -makers are on relocating the Emergency Operation Center. City Manager Molleda replied the discussion is preliminary between the Assistant City Manager, the Chief of Police, and herself. Mayor Armenta stated that the City Council should determine if the Emergency Operation Center should be relocated. She also suggested using the Garvey Park facility, formerly the Public Works Maintenance Facility, as another Emergency Operation Center. Council Member Ly reminded Mayor Armenta that there have been discussions to convert the Garvey Park facility to a youth center. Mayor Pro Tem Low agreed on the discussion to reassess the Emergency Operation Center. She suggested City staff gather more information and options for consideration. She noted she supports the proposed renovations to the Public Safety Center. Council Member Clark agreed with the project and Council Member Ly's comments about not having the metal wall but installing a concrete barrier instead. Mrs. Clark noted that she is opposed to relocating the Emergency Operation Center. She stated she has gone through the CERT training, and the location is ideal. Council Member Ly asked when the final proposed design will come before the Council, what the estimated cost of the renovation was, and timeline. Assistant City Manager Kim stated staff would develop the construction documents and go through the plan check process before returning to the City Council. The estimated cost is about $600,000 to $700,000 all-inclusive, including equipment and furniture. Construction could take four to five months. Mayor Armenta asked if there is another Emergency Operation Center in the southside housed in this facility. Assistant City Manager Kim suggested that staff bring back further information about the Emergency Operation Center. Mayor Armenta stated she asked because she made comments if Code Enforcement Officers would remain at City Hall downstairs at a previous Council meeting. She was told Code Enforcement Officers were going to stay at City Hall. Assistant City Manager Kim reaffirmed Code Enforcement would remain at City Hall. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 13 of 18 B. COVID-19 Update This is a recurring item that will be on the agenda to update the City Council on items related to COVID-19. Recommendation: That the City Council discuss and provide further direction. City Manager Molleda reported there were no new changes in the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health, Safer at Work in the Community for Control of COVID-19 order. Hair salons and barbershops continue to be open, indoor, with operations at 25%. Other operations are still encouraged to continue providing as many services as possible outside. The City will be reopening the skatepark next week and post proper signage, addressing masks and social distancing usage. The Planning and Economic Development Division staff continues to updateCOVID-19 information on the City's website for businesses, employees, renters, residents, and seniors. Emails were sent to Rosemead businesses on September 14 and 17. The first notification informed the business community that the City was accepting applications for both the City Business Rental Assistance Program and the Small Business Assistance Program. The second notification was a reminder to businesses that the grant program will close on Monday, September 21st, which was yesterday. Last week the Planning and Economic Development Division received a temporary outdoor dining application from the new Kim Noodle House. Also, the Great Plates Delivery Program had been extended to October 9th. The City continues to provide at-home COVID-19 testing kits since the program started on August 24th. We have received 143 total requests, of which 115 have qualified. As of today, there are a total of 818 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the City of Rosemead. City Attorney Richman spoke about the current moratorium, where as long as the Governor said there was an emergency situation, agencies were authorized to do eviction protections, and that is how long local ordinances would also exist. She explained that the City Council might want to fall under the County's moratorium since they extended it. She reiterated that she will bring further information to the City Council if the City wants to continue its moratorium or follow the State's or County moratoriums instead. Council Member Dang inquired about the flu shot and dental clinic drive event. City Manager Molleda stated a Flu Shot Drive was scheduled to occur at the Rosemead Community Recreation Center on Saturday, October 10th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Dental clinic will also operate by appointment only. Mayor Armenta stated she had previously suggested for the City to look into hosting a food drive. Subsequently, since the City received the CBDG COVID-19 funding and issued a competitive bid for food distribution services, community churches were awarded the money. She clarified that the Churches and the Kiwanis Club received the CDBG COVID-19 funds through the City. She expressed disappointment the City was not mentioned in the food distribution event flyer and Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 14 of 18 wanted to ensure that residents knew the City is trying to bring programs to help during the COVID-19 pandemic. City Manager Molleda stated she would follow up with Mr. Landing on why the City was not mentioned in the event flyer. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo stated the City did provide financial assistance through the CDBG Coronavirus funding to the church groups and the Asian Youth Center. The food distribution event was included on the City's website. Staff will provide updates to the community through mass emails and social media. Acknowledged and ensured City staff will do a better job in distributing information to the community. Mayor Armenta stated that when the City does partner with other agencies, funding was given, it would be appreciated if the City was to be included in the event. 6. MATTERS FROM MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL A. Appointment of Housing Development Subcommittee At the September 8, 2020, Small Lot Subdivision Workshop, the City Council provided staff with direction on developing a Housing Development Subcommittee to assist in identifying potential planning and zoning tools, such as the development of a Small Lot Subdivision Ordinance, which may assist property owners and developers. A Housing Development Subcommittee may also assist with the 6th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) Allocation. The Draft 6th Cycle RHNA Allocation for the City of Rosemead totals 4,601 units. The close collaboration between staff and an appointed subcommittee will assist the City in the Housing Element Update process to identify the locations where housing can be built and the policies and strategies necessary to meet the community's housing needs. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Appoint the Housing Development Subcommittee by selecting two (2) members of the City Council; and 2. Direct Community Development Department staff to obtain representation of one (1) member of the Planning Commission. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo reported that at the last City Council meeting during a small lot subdivision workshop, the City Council requested to develop a Housing Development Subcommittee to help identify potential Planning and Zoning tools. The subcommittee would look into the development of small -lot subdivision ordinances. The subcommittee may be beneficial during the housing element process by recommending policies and strategies to help meet the community's housing needs. Some of them could include developing a small lot subdivision ordinance, perhaps joining the San Gabriel Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 15 of 18 Valley Regional Housing Trust. The City Council is being asked to consider the appointment of two members of the City Council to serve on the Housing Development Subcommittee and direct the Community Development staff to obtain a representative from the Planning Commission. Council Member Ly stated it was important the subcommittee focused on how the City manages the RHNA allocations and considers small -lot division and other tools to help meet the RHNA numbers. He stated he supported appointing two Council Members to the subcommittee and asked for clarification on selecting a Planning Commission representative to serve on the subcommittee. Mayor Pro Tem Low suggested only appointing two Council Members to the subcommittee and allow the Planning Commission to pick their own representative. Council Member Clark expressed she would like to serve on the subcommittee since she has served on the Regional Council; reiterated she was not able to serve on the Garvey Specific Plan Ad -Hoc Committee since she lived too close to the project area. Mayor Pro Tem Low nominated Council Member Dang to the subcommittee due to his experience with small -lot division. Mayor Armenta reiterated the nominations to appoint Council Member Clark and Council Member Dang to the subcommittee and direct the Planning Commission to nominate their representative. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Ly and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Low to appoint Council Member Clark and Council Member Dang to the Housing Development Subcommittee and authorize the Planning Commission to appoint one representative to the subcommittee. Motion was carried out by the following roll call vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low and Ly ABSENT: None B. Introduction and Reading of an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Rosemead, California, Adding Chapter 8.38 to Title 8 of the Rosemead Municipal Code Relating to Pool Maintenance This item is before the City Council per the request of Mayor Sandra Armenta to have the Council consider and discuss the introduction and reading of an ordinance creating a pool maintenance ordinance. Recommendation: That the City Council consider adoption of an ordinance of the City of Rosemead, California, adding Chapter 8.38 to Title 8 of the Rosemead Municipal Code relating to pool maintenance or provide other direction to staff. Mayor Armenta tabled the item and stated she would like to invite the Mosquito and Vector Control members to provide further information. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 16 of 18 C. Reward Fund to Apprehend LASD Deputy Shooter This item is presented to the City Council at the request of Mayor Sandra Armenta. She would like to discuss partnering up with Contract Cities to donate funds to increase the County's reward for the capture of the individual involved with the recent deputy shooting. Recommendation: That the City Council provide further direction. Mayor Armenta stated the City received a letter from the California Contract Cities Association requesting donations to contribute to the reward for information in apprehending the shooter who ambushed the two Los Angeles County Sheriff Deputies. She reiterated that deputies put their lives on the line every day to keep communities safe. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked for clarification if the letter was requesting a donation of $10,000. Mayor Armenta replied the request is $10,000 and referred to Attachment A, a letter from the City of Palmdale, who initiated the request to increase the Los Angeles County reward. Mayor Pro Tem Low expressed support for the requested donation to show support of the Los Angeles Sheriff Department. Council Member Clark also expressed support in donating towards the reward to apprehend the shooter. Council Member Ly stated he supported the request to donate towards the reward. He commended the heroism of the two officers, particularly the Deputy who is a Mom, that was shot, as she performed heroic measures to make sure her partner stayed safe. Council Member Dang agreed with the City Council's comments and expressed support to grant the request to help bring the victims justice. City Attorney Richman clarified the motion should state the amount the City Council would like to contribute. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Ly and seconded by Council Member Clark to support the request by California Contract Cities Association to contribute $10,000 towards the Los Angeles County's reward for information leading to the apprehension of the Los Angeles County Sheriff Deputy shooter. Motion was carried out by the following roll call vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low and Ly ABSENT: None Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 17 of 18 D. Council Comments Council Member Ly requested for a future agenda item for discussion to create an ad-hoc committee of the City Council to discuss and evaluate the current Emergency Operations Center. Also requested a status update on the Community Garden and Dog Parks projects. Council Member Clark thanked the Council for their support in allowing her to be the Delegate to the Council of Governments (COG) and thanked her colleagues for voting for her to be the COG's President. Mayor Pro Tem Low inquired about the City's internet service. She stated she experienced some service interruptions and wondered if the internet speed and service are adequate throughout the City. City Manager Molleda stated that the City IT consultant could look into the matter. Mayor Armenta reported a leaning tree on Ellis Lane (between Olney Street and Marshall Street) and was concerned the winds could knock it down causing damage. Also, on Marshall Street and Temple City Boulevard, there are weeds on public rights -of -ways not being abated. She indicated that private property owners should also get notification of excess weeds in front of their properties. City Manager Molleda stated that Code Enforcement had sent notifications to the property owners to upkeep their properties. Mayor Armenta clarified that the area she was referring to is a public right-of-way, in which the weeds are overgrown within the sidewalk. She noted that the City should also try to keep the City beautiful and actively abate weeds from public rights-of-way if the City will enforce property maintenance towards private property owners. 7. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Armenta adjourned the meeting in memory of El Dorado Firefighter Charley Morten at 11:26 p.m. The next regular scheduled meeting will take place on October 13, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in the Rosemead City Hall Council Chamber. Ericka ernandez, City Clerk APPROVED: PokL.0. ,_mayor Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Page 18 of 18