CC - Minutes - 12-08-20MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR AGENCY
TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
AND HOUSING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
REGULAR JOINT MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2020
The meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Armenta
at 6:11 p.m., in the Rosemead City Council Chamber located at 8838 East Valley Boulevard,
Rosemead, California.
PRESENT: Mayor Armenta, Mayor Pro Tem Low (teleconferenced), Council Members Clark
(teleconferenced), Dang, and Ly (teleconferenced)
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was led by Council Member Ly
INVOCATION was led by Council Member Dang
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Molleda (teleconferenced), Assistant City Manager Kim,
City Attorney Richman, Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo, Director of
Public Works Daste, Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking, and City Clerk Hernandez
1. PUBLIC COMMENT
Mayor Armenta opened the Public Comment period.
Mayor Armenta read the Public Comment received via email from Sue Yamamoto,
Rosemead Library Manager, shared the following: 1) If you are currently looking for a new
job, looking to build new job skills, or seeking out new career opportunities, but don't have
the device or internet connection to make that happen, call the Rosemead Library to find
out how to borrow a laptop, a wireless hotspot kit and register for j ob-related online classes.
2) Looking for customized recommendations for your next book? Share your reading
preferences including authors, genre, length and get title recommendations from your local
librarians! Call the library for more information on how to get started.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Armenta closed the Public Comment period.
2. PRESENTATIONS
A. Republic Services Annual Report Presentation
Tania Ragland-Castaneda, Municipal Relationship Manager, Republic Services,
provided an overview of the operations and programs offered such as 3 -bin system
city-wide, e -waste, holiday tree recycling, free city collection for all facilities,
disability service and senior discount, annual $5,000 scholarships, organics
program, and various outreach efforts. Mrs. Castaneda noted that residents get 25
bulky item pick-ups per year free, up to five items at a time; indicated the items
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Minutes of December 8, 2020
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should be placed out only the night before your trash collection day as it helps with
the quality of life.
Mayor Armenta reiterated residents cannot simply leave their bulky items outside,
and they must call Republic Services to schedule a bulky item pick-up.
Mrs. Castaneda stated Republic Services takes pride in partnering and supporting
the city, Chamber of Commerce, and local nonprofits that serve the city; indicated
they provide on average over $20,000 annually for sponsorships, donations and
other resources; shared that Rosemead residents receive one of the lowest rates of
the surrounding cities at only $20.57. With the current pandemic, they have
purchased over 3,000 meals from local restaurants such as Di Pilla's Italian
Restaurant, TGIF, to support local businesses and feed the drivers and their
families; in addition, they have provided their drivers with gift cards from local
businesses to stimulate local economy; explained with the shelter in place, the
residential waste volume increased by 13% and bulky tonnage by 6%. Mrs.
Castaneda discussed SB 1383, waste legislation that will connect large food
generators with local food rescue programs, expand organic waste collection to all
homes and businesses, change rates to fund new programs, and educate generators,
haulers, and processors; stated they will begin shifting resources and energy toward
getting SB 1383 ready by 2022 when it takes effect.
Council Member Clark noticed in the video shared there was a green receptacle that
said "compostable" — does that mean we can put our leaves and branches with food
in the same can?
Mrs. Castaneda responded residents have a green barrel that is specifically for their
green waste, and we will subsequently be submitting a program to the city where
residents can put food into that same barrel, however that cannot be done now and
will not take effect until 2022.
Council Member Ly opined pick-up of bulky items seems to be a recurring issue;
asked for clarification that even if a resident does not call to schedule a pick-up, it
is Republic Services' obligation as part of the agreement to still pick-up those items.
Municipal Relationship Manager Castaneda responded we want the city to look
beautiful as it is a reflection of who we are and our work; acknowledged there has
been a significant increase in bulky items; indicated our current process is when
abandoned items are reported, they are submitted into a que and routed on the
service day, however if an item is reported on Tuesday but the service street is that
Friday, then it will be routed to Friday. So unfortunately, it will be out there for a
few days until the service day.
Council Member Ly said we need to do a better job as it adds a quality of life issue;
noted graffiti is another issue — part of the agreement was our receptacles would be
switched out if there was graffiti on them or at least painted over.
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Mrs. Castaneda said we can improve our communication by providing a report to
the city of when the graffiti is reported and when our drivers abate the graffiti.
Public Works Manager Garwick affirmed that Mrs. Castaneda provides reports to
him frequently to keep him informed.
Council Member Ly referenced the slide with the rates, asked for the rates of the
cities of Alhambra, Cudahy, and Bell.
Mrs. Castaneda responded she would provide this information to Council;
noted it is based off surrounding cities in the San Gabriel Valley, and there may be
differences in access to infrastructure and proximity to transfer stations that may
affect cities' rates as well.
Council Member Dang emphasized CalRecycle is a state agency, so SB 1383 is
state mandated; thanked Mrs. Castaneda for being a good community member and
investing back in our community.
Mayor Pro Tem Low attested that if a driver happens to see a bulky item along the
designated route that they will pick it up even if it was not scheduled; shared that
she had an item drying out on the sidewalk and did not realize her neighbor called
for a bulky item pick-up, so her item was accidentally picked up as well.
Mrs. Castaneda apologized to Mayor Pro Tem Low for the mix-up; stating that is
the danger of our drivers picking up what may appear to be an abandoned item, but
really a resident left out for another reason.
Mayor Armenta emphasized we all need to do our part to keep Rosemead clean
by taking care of our own bulky items accordingly; opined there is no reason for
residents to just abandon their bulky items, especially since our current contract
now provides multi -family dwellings 16 bulky items per year for free; asked if we
could get the flyers that Republic Services has in the different languages so that
we can share on the City's website and social media outlets, as well as have our
Code Enforcement provide them when they are out in the field; noted she has been
working closely with Mrs. Castaneda who ensures any reported bulky items are
taken care of immediately. Mayor Armenta inquired if Sacramento is considering
delaying the deadline for SB 1383 due to the impact of COVID-19; expressed
concern whether they will recalculate to accurately detail what number we need to
be in compliance if we no longer have a certain number of businesses due to closure
and having much less rubbish; asked what the repercussions are if the city does not
adhere to the regulations within the timetable.
Municipal Relationship Manager Castaneda concurred with Mayor Armenta,
stating we share that point of view which is why we have been advocating to push
the deadline back; noted the League of California Cities as well as other agencies
have also sent letters to CalRecycle asking for consideration of a grace period,
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unfortunately the response has been that it is up to legislature to make any changes
to the timeline. The main component of SB 1383 is that the city has to provide the
program to the businesses, but there are exemptions within the law; provided
an example, if a business has less than 20 gallons of food that they throw out or
meet the threshold of producing less than 10 gallons a week, then they do not need
to have an organics program; asserted that Republic Services will look into
what those exemptions are and create the most business friendly and cost effective
program that we can for the city. Mrs. Castaneda stated as far as the repercussions,
the fines vary depending on what the violation is and if it is the first or second
offense, it can range from $500 to $5,000 a day; noted the fines are laid out in a
charts, which we can forward to Council and the City Attorney for your reference.
Mayor Armenta opined we may need to push the state to consider putting a hold on
the timetable as our finances (i.e., TOT, revenue streams, etc.) are not what we
usually receive due to the pandemic; expressed it is unfair for cities to be penalized
if for some reason we are not able to meet the deadline; thanked Mrs. Castaneda
for always responding promptly and for her efforts to beautify Rosemead.
A. Presentation on the "Fund a Dream" Scholarship Program
Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking stated the "Fund a Dream" Scholarship
program will give youth an opportunity to participate in recreational classes and
activities at a reduced fee; the program will be supported through contributions
from local businesses, community organizations, and individuals. It is designed to
help those families with low and moderate -income who live within the Rosemead
city limits; any of their children who are 17 and under are eligible to apply. Proof
of yearly income must be submitted to determine if the family's income meets the
Department of Housing and Development (HUD) guidelines for low and moderate
income. Each eligible family (household) may receive up to $150 per year.
Class/activity fees will be reduced by 25%, 50%, or 75% depending on household
income and the number of people in the family (household). The remainder of the
class/activity fee must be paid by the applicant at the time of registration.
Class material fees are not covered by this program. These fees must be paid to
the instructor at the first meeting. Next steps will be to finalize the program
application and guidelines; launch a fundraising campaign with local businesses
and community organizations; advertise the program; and accept applications for
Summer 2021.
Council Member Ly inquired how are we collecting the donations and will they be
tax-deductible; and if so, what is the vehicle we will be utilizing for that? Would it
need a 501(c) status?
Mr. Boecking responded yes, they will be tax deductible donations which will be
going into a trust account to where that money will run over each year; and no it
would not need to be classified as a 501(c) status.
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Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
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Council Member Dang praised Director Boecking, stating it sounds like a great
program to invest in our youth and not cost the city much to facilitate.
Mayor Pro Tem Low asked how much we are trying to raise for the program.
Mr. Boecking responded we would like to fundraise as much as possible, however
$3,000 would be ideal to start the program; indicated we will continuously look for
ways to get donations, noting if someone comes in to register for a class, they can
donate to this program on their registration form. It is based on the number of
applicants received, which will determine how much funds we actually need.
Mayor Armenta suggested you can also encourage people to donate by allowing
them to sponsor a child by paying for that year of recreation classes; asserted she
would be happy to pay $150 a year to sponsor a child.
Council Member Dang, Mayor Pro Tem Low, and Council Member Ly echoed that
they would also sponsor a child for a year.
Mr. Boecking clarified the sponsorship cap of $150 would be per family/household,
not per child, otherwise a family of five would deplete the funds rather quickly;
reiterated we look forward to implementing the program.
3. PUBLIC HEARING - None
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
ACTION: Moved by Council Member Clark and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Low to
approve Consent Calendar Items A through G. Council Member Ly pulled Item H
for separate discussion. Motion was carried out by the following vote AYES: Armenta,
Clark, Dang, Low, Ly ABSENT: None
A. Claims and Demands
Resolution No. 2020-48
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING
CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM
OF $1,358,859.00 NUMBERED 107759 THROUGH
NUMBER 107859 INCLUSIVELY
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-48.
Resolution No. 2020-49
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING
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Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
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CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF
$901,212.03 NUMBERED 107860 THROUGH NUMBER
107980 INCLUSIVELY
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-49.
• Resolution No. 2020-18 SA
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD AS
THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE ROSEMEAD
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD ALLOWING CERTAIN
CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $6,759.00
NUMBERED 10303 THROUGH NUMBER 10304
INCLUSIVELY
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-18 SA.
• Resolution No. 2020-08 RHDC
A RESOLUTION OF THE ROSEMEAD HOUSING
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION ALLOWING
CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF
$2,997.00 NUMBERED 1620 INCLUSIVELY
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-08 RHDC.
• Resolution No. 2020-09 RHDC
A RESOLUTION OF THE ROSEMEAD HOUSING
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION ALLOWING
CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM
OF $387.20 NUMBERED 1621 INCLUSIVELY
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-09 RHDC.
B. Approval of Minutes
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt the regular meeting minutes of
February 25, 2020, special emergency meeting minutes of March 24, 2020,
and special and regular meeting minutes of November 10, 2020.
C. 2021 City Council Meeting Schedule
City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month
at 7:00 p.m. Historically, the City Council has cancelled the second meetings in
August (summer break), November (Thanksgiving), and December (Christmas).
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Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
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Adopting a meeting schedule will give the City Council, staff, and the community
the ability to plan their schedules accordingly. The City Council maintains the
ability to adjust, cancel, and/or add other meeting dates, as deemed appropriate.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt a City Council meeting schedule for
the 2021 calendar year.
D. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 997, for the Approval of
Zone Change 19-01 and Planned Development 19-01, Amending the Zoning Map
from Light Multiple Residential (R-2) to Planned Development (P -D) Zone
at 3133 - 3141 Willard Avenue
At the November 10th meeting, the City Council introduced for first reading
Ordinance No. 997, for the approval of Zone Change 19-01 and Planned
Development 19-01, amending the zoning map of the subject site from Light
Multiple Residential (R-2) to Planned Development (P -D) zone. The Ordinance is
now being presented for adoption by the City Council.
Recommendation: That the City Council approve the second reading and adoption
of Ordinance No. 997 by title only, entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS
ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, FOR THE
APPROVAL OF ZONE CHANGE 19-01 AND PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT 19-01, AMENDING THE ZONING
MAP OF THE SUBJECT SITE FROM LIGHT MULTIPLE
RESIDENTIAL (R-2) TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
(P -D) ZONE. THE SUBJECT SITE IS LOCATED
AT 3133-3141 WILLARD AVENUE (APNS: 5288-004-
054 & 5288-003-057)
E. Approval of the Traffic Commission Recommendation from the November 5, 2020,
Traffic Commission Meeting for Traffic Calming Measures on Burton Avenue
Between Garvey Avenue and Ramona Boulevard
At the November 5, 2020, Traffic Commission Meeting, staff presented traffic
calming measures along Burton Avenue between Garvey Avenue and Ramona
Boulevard. The presented recommendations were approved by the Traffic
Commission to be brought before the City Council for final approval.
Recommendation: That the City Council approve the following:
1. Installation of Side Stripes on each side of Burton Avenue between Garvey
Avenue and Ramona Boulevard;
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Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
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2. Installation of a Solid Double Yellow Centerline with Raised Pavement
Markers (RPMs) on both sides of the Solid Double Yellow Centerline along
Burton Avenue between Garvey Avenue and Ramona Boulevard; and
3. Installation of midblock speed limit (R2-1) signs in both directions of travel
(north and south) along the east and west side of Burton Avenue between
Garvey Avenue and Ramona Boulevard. The segment along Burton Avenue
between Garvey Avenue and Ramona Boulevard is approximately 3,300 -feet
long.
• Installation of a speed limit (R2-1) sign on the eastside of Burton
Avenue approximately 1,650 -feet from Garvey Avenue; and
• Installation of a speed limit (R2-1) sign on the westside of Burton
Avenue approximately 1,650 -feet from Ramona Boulevard.
F. Recognized Obligation Payment Schedules (ROPS) Submittal — July 2021 Through
June 2022
The California State Department of Finance (DOF) requires the Recognized
Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) for the period July 1, 2021 through
June 30, 2022 be submitted to the DOF by February 1, 2021. Prior to that,
the ROPS must be reviewed and approved by the Los Angeles County Consolidated
Oversight Board. The deadline to submit the ROPS to the Oversight Board is
December 21, 2020.
Recommendation: That the Rosemead Successor Agency Board approve
Resolution 2020-19 SA, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO
THE ROSEMEAD COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION APPROVING THE RECOGNIZED
OBLIGATION PAYMENT SCHEDULES FOR THE
PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2021 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2022
G. Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement for Priscila Davila and
Associates, Inc.
On September 25, 2019, the City Manager executed a Professional Services
Agreement with Priscila Davila and Associates, Inc. for the daily program activities
of the City's Federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME)
programs in the amount of $30,000 for a one-year term. The City of Rosemead
received a special allocation of $443,682 in the first round of CDBG coronavirus
(CDBG-CV) grants on April 2, 2020. Due to the unanticipated time and costs related
the CDBG-CV activities, an amendment to the Priscila Davila and Associates, Inc.
agreement is needed. The amendment will increase the contract amount by
$9,000.00 which is necessary to pay the outstanding invoices for August and
September 2020.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 8 of 21
Recommendation: That the City Council approve Amendment No. 1 to increase the
2019 Professional Services Agreement with Priscila Davila and Associates, Inc., in
the amount of $9,000.00 for a total contract amount of $39,000.
ITEMS PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION
H. ICMA 401 Plan Loan Amendment and Adopt Resolution No. 2020-50
The City currently contracts with ICMA to provide a 401 Profit -Sharing Plan for
employees. An added 401 plan feature that ICMA offers is a loan program where
plan participants may take out loans against their own accounts. The program offers
competitive interest rates and extremely low administration and origination fees.
The City Council must approve an amendment to the current plan with ICMA by
resolution to implement the new loan program.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2020-50, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES,
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, IN THE MATTER OF
AMENDING THE ICMA-RC RETIREMENT PLAN TO
PERMIT LOANS
City Manager Molleda noted Item H will be tabled for a future meeting, however
Council Member Ly wanted to speak briefly on this item.
Council Member Ly expressed concern as he is not sure if he can support this
because the 40 l is meant to ensure a person can enjoy their retirement and not just
as a way of income for someone to just pull out early on and put their retirement at
risk; stated he looks forward to this item being brought back for future discussion.
Council Member Clark indicated it was her understanding they already had this loan
program in place.
Mayor Armenta echoed Council Member Clark's inquiry; noted ICMA has two
different programs a 457 and a 401.
City Manager Molleda responded the loan program has not changed, the 457 plan is
still where someone can pull out loans, however, the 401k is for grandfathered in
employees as the city is the one that funds this; indicated we can go into the
differences of both plans when we bring this item back to Council.
Mayor Armenta reiterated since this item is being tabled, there is no need for a
motion or a vote at this time.
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Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
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5. MATTERS FROM CITY MANAGER & STAFF
A. 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 stated since December 6th, the Los Angeles County Public
Health has aligned their order with the mandates from the State of California's Stay
at Home Order which includes the following: all gatherings from members of other
households are prohibited; all individuals living in the region shall stay home or at
the place of residence except as necessary to conduct activities associated with the
operations of maintenance or usage of critical infrastructure; worship and political
expressions are permitted outdoors consistent with the existing guidelines for those
activities; critical infrastructure sectors may operate and must continue to modify
operations pursuant to the applicable sector guidelines; guidance related to schools
remain in effect and unchanged; all retailers may operate indoors at no more than
20% capacity; outdoor recreation facilities may continue to operate, however those
facilities may not sell food or drinks; no hotels or lodging entity shall accept or
honor out of state reservations for nonessential travel unless the reservation is for
at least the minimum amount required for quarantine. Ms. Molleda indicated we as
a city has closed the playgrounds and workout equipment at the parks, but the parks
are still open to the public; we have issued 272 COVID-19 home test kits; noted as
of today Rosemead has 1,655 positive confirmed cases and 34 deaths.
Mayor Armenta shared she has received questions from residents whether the city
is lifting parking citations for street sweeping due to the new stay at home orders;
noted we had some businesses that were not adhering to the social distancing of 6
feet and capacity regulations.
City Manager Molleda responded we have not decided whether we are going to do
that, but that is something we can talk about and will share in the Weekly Update;
stated I know that was a concern in the beginning, but we have not had any more
concerns of that nature.
6. MATTERS FROM MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL
A. Discussion on Graffiti Abatement
This item is presented to the City Council at the request of Council Member Steven
Ly to discuss about graffiti abatement.
Recommendation: That the City Council discuss and provide further direction.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 10 of 21
Council Member Ly expressed concern for the uptick of graffiti in the city,
particularly throughout the corridors where we live as it adds blight to the
community; asked if it is still Public Works staff procedure that if they see graffiti
on their routine morning drive to remove that graffiti.
Director of Public Works Daste affirmed that is correct; directed Public Works
Manager Garwick to provide a more detailed report of the process.
Public Works Manager Garwick responded yes, we proactively run two routes
beginning at 5:00 a.m. — one is the arterials of the city and the second is the key
areas of the residential that have been tagged within the last year; the program is
monitored daily, and we remove graffiti reported from the CRM on the GoGov app
and any received on our hotline within a 24-hour period. Mr. Garwick shared
the number of reported graffiti has almost tripled from the recent years: in
2016 - 763 locations, in 2017 - 518 locations, and this calendar year, 1,084 locations
were abated.
Mr. Ly what is the turnaround from when someone enters a request in the CRM
system, how quickly is it assigned to staff and when the request is completed?
Mr. Garwick stated because of our GoGov system, as soon as you record it, it goes
to the individual taking care of graffiti for that day; emphasized we are taking care
of graffiti within 24 hours.
Council Member Ly inquired why there is a delay when there is graffiti on the
on/off ramps?
Mr. Garwick explained the on/off ramps belong to Caltrans; noted we have been
asked not to remove the graffiti because we use a chemical that will destroy their
sign since their signs do not have graffiti coating on them.
Council Member Ly asked the City Manager to have our lobbyist, Joe Gonsalves,
set up a meeting with a Caltrans local representative to discuss this matter on a
legislative platform.
City Manager Molleda stated she will ensure the meeting is set up.
Council Member Dang inquired if the sound wall of the on/off ramps are sprayed
with the chemicals, not the signs; asked how staff approaches the property owner
when there is graffiti on a commercial building.
Mr. Garwick replied we wash the sound walls on a regular basis as they have been
added to our routes; stated if the graffiti is gang related, moniker, or contains bad
language, we take care of that right away, however if it is something else, we will
work with Code Enforcement to address it with the property owner.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
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Mayor Pro Tem Low shared that a business owner contacted her to complain that
the city issued him warnings to clean up the graffiti on their property rather
than assisting them to remove it; asked for clarification on what circumstances the
city assists in removing graffiti on commercial properties.
Mr. Garwick reiterated if the graffiti is gang related, moniker, or contains bad
language, we will take care of that right away because it reflects poorly on the city;
explained if the graffiti is not related to those three things, for example a happy face
was graffitied, Code Enforcement would reach out to the property owner to advise
them it is their responsibility to remove it since it is private property.
Mayor Pro Tem Low suggested Council have a future discussion so that the graffiti
program includes helping business owners with abatement on their property as well.
Public Works Manager Garwick responded the challenge is we cannot color
match because we do not have paint in all the colors that you see on the buildings
and walls throughout the city; stated if we try to fix their property with paint,
there is the possibility of further damaging the property and creating more work
for the owner.
City Manager Molleda asserted that we can bring something back to Council,
noting we will have to look at the financial portion of it.
Mayor Pro Tem Low asked if staff is noticing whether graffiti that has been
removed from specific locations are right back up the next day at the same location?
Mr. Garwick affirmed that staff has observed recurring graffiti along the routes and
makes a note of that in the CRM system so that area can be monitored closely.
Council Member Dang asked if the city has an ordinance pertaining to graffiti
abatement, specifically if there are any repercussions (i.e., paying a fine) for those
caught applying graffiti, especially repeating offenders.
City Manager Molleda noted we will not be able to pursue any charges in the future
as the new Los Angeles County District Attorney Gascon has expressed that he will
not be convicting individuals for low-level crimes. She referenced an ordinance that
the Council adopted in 2012, which authorizes the City to recover costs and
expenses from any person, including a parent or guardian of a minor that damaged
property with graffiti.
Mayor Armenta stated she knows the ordinance has to do with restitution because
she was a part of the Public Safety Connections Forum that established it.
City Attorney Richman confirmed the ordinance allows us to recover costs,
however, the challenging part is that you must catch the person in the act.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 12 of 21
Chief of Police Duong shared from a law enforcement point of view, to sustain
an arrest and a successful conviction, you need an eyewitness or must have a video
that can positively identify the individual committing the act; emphasized that the
District Attorney Gascon is adamant about not seeking jail time for misdemeanor
or felony offenses unless there is violence involved; noted in the past, graffiti
counted as one of the gang allegation types of crimes — meaning if a gang member
was caught spray painting his moniker, we could potentially charge him with
graffiti with an enhancement of him doing it for the benefit of the gang; reiterated
that DA Gascon will no longer pursue gang allegations.
Mayor Armenta noted a few years ago she felt obligated to give back to the
community, so she went on a ride along with staff to clean up the graffiti; shared
she also drove with the former Public Works Director Chris Marcarello and
observed the southern part of Rosemead had a lot more graffiti than the northern
part; expressed that she was inspired to help beautify Rosemead and as a result, the
Beautification Committee was established. Mrs. Armenta indicated there was a
binder with pictures of the monikers that was given to our Sheriff's Department to
help them identify which gangs the monikers belonged to; opined she does not
know why that is no longer done or provided to the Sheriffs Department as it
was a useful tool; asked the Public Works Manager how much of the graffiti that is
out there is not gang related.
Public Works Manager Garwick apologized that he misspoke earlier; clarified that
we have an electronic record, which includes the date, time, location, and before/
after photos of all graffiti reported and abated; stated he is not sure if the electronic
record is currently shared with the Sheriff's Department but will look into that;
indicated he does not have the numbers of how much graffiti is gang related to
provide tonight, however he will gather the information and forward to Council.
City Manager Molleda opined she believes photos of monikers and gang related
graffiti within the city is still shared with the Sheriff's Department, but Public
Works is not aware since Code Enforcement facilitates that.
Chief of Police Duong stated although I have not physically seen the photos, we
have a good working relationship with Code Enforcement who does communicate
to me where they see gang related graffiti.
Mayor Armenta emphasized it is crucial to our efforts in combating graffiti, as well
as other issues, to ensure all departments are communicating with each other and
are aware of the processes and details; concurred with Mayor Pro Tem Low that
there are a lot of businesses being targeted with graffiti; asked if there is a way
for staff to ask property owners to purchase the paint for the color scheme of their
building so that staff can abate the graffiti with the correct color paint without
absorbing the cost.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 13 of 21
Director of Public Works Daste responded it is possible, it will just be a matter of
setting up the costs associated with that program and coordinating whether the
paint will be stored at a city facility or at the business storefront; asserted he will
bring back ideas for Council to consider at a future meeting.
Council Member Clark indicated support for Mayor Armenta's suggestion to work
with the business owners in securing the correct color paint and staff assisting with
the abatement at no extra cost.
Mayor Armenta asked if staff is still completing two routes and in the opposite
direction to check blight on each side.
Public Works Manager Garwick confirmed staff is still carrying out two routes and
opposite direction.
Mayor Armenta requested the City Manager provide a log of graffiti reported in the
CRM system so that Council can see what the turnaround time is for abatement.
City Manager Molleda noted graffiti numbers and locations are provided on a
weekly basis in the Council Weekly Update; responded she will have staff gather
the CRM report to provide for Council's reference.
Council Member Ly stated he is not opposed to business owners procuring their
own paint, however it can be costly and time consuming for staff; reminded Council
of his past recommendation to add to the Zoning Code: Buildings that have a direct
face with a side wall be required to have graffiti resistant coating, so that it is faster
for Public Works staff to power wash it instead of having to paint over the graffiti.
City Manager Molleda stated we do already have some language in our Zoning
Code related to graffiti for new projects; asserted we can bring back that language
for Council to review and make any desired amendments then.
B. Discussion on the El Monte Union High School District's (EMUHSD)
Development of the Granada Campus and Consideration of a Resolution in Support
of a Pasadena City College Campus At 4105 N. Rosemead Boulevard in the City
of Rosemead
This item is presented to the City Council at the request of Council Member
Margaret Clark. She would like to discuss El Monte Union High School District's
expansion project of the Granada Transitional Center at 4105 N. Rosemead
Boulevard, currently leased and occupied by Pasadena City College (PCC) and
requests that the Council adopt a resolution in support of the PCC campus.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2020-52, entitled:
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 14 of 21
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF
CALIFORNIA, IN SUPPORT OF A PASADENA CITY
COLLEGE CAMPUS AT 4105 N. ROSEMEAD BOULEVARD,
IN THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD
Council Member Clark stated Pasadena City College local campus in the City of
Rosemead is thriving and loved by our community as it strengthens the ability
for higher education for our surrounding communities, as well as brings lease
revenue to the District from Pasadena City College. When students were told of the
possibility of losing the campus in Rosemead, they were shocked and upset.
To close the campus would be a major disruptive decision that should have input
from the affected community. Council Member Clark implored the Council to
approve the resolution in support of the PCC campus remaining local in Rosemead.
Mayor Armenta opened the Public Comment period.
Mayor Armenta read a Public Comment received via email from Erika Endrijonas,
Superintendent/President of Pasadena City College.
"For nearly 10 years, Pasadena City College (PCC) has offered college courses at
a location right in the heart of Rosemead, at 4105 Rosemead Blvd. These courses
help roughly 5,000 to 6,000 students each year advance their education, allowing
them to earn more money, provide for their families, and lift up their communities.
Many in our community know PCC as a place of educational excellence,
established through nearly 100 years of service to the San Gabriel Valley. PCC is
one of California's flagship community colleges, transferring more students to the
University of California and California State Universities than any other in the state,
and having been named one of the top 10 two-year colleges in the nation three
consecutive times by the Aspen Institute. In addition to educating roughly 25,000 -
27,000 students every year the college is a major contributor to the regional
economy, with an annual economic impact of roughly $600 million.
The El Monte Union High School District (EMUHSD) is currently evaluating
locations for its Transition Center program, which provides educational and life
opportunities for adult learners. This is important work, but it would be a mistake
to force PCC to leave Rosemead to serve this population. Other locations available
to EMUHSD include a site on Granada, which is much more centrally located to
the high school district and conveniently located next to mass transit.
The item before the Council is a statement to keep PCC in Rosemead and continue
to offer these valuable services to current and future residents. With your advocacy,
PCC and EMUHSD will be able to find a path forward that serves both community
college students and adult learners in the City of Rosemead and beyond.
Thank you."
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 15 of 21
Mayor Armenta read a Public Comment received via email from John Martin,
PCC TrnstPP
"I remember fondly the numerous times I have come before you in the past
including that infamous night that we had the Edison Power outage. Thank you for
allowing me to address you again, even if with power and COVID.
I appreciate the Council considering the Resolution in support of PCC -
Rosemead and requesting that the EMUHSD locate their Transition program
on their Granada location.
I've had two powerful goals as our elected official to the PCC Board: Make sure
PCC provides the best education and that PCC serves our community. There's no
question on goal one: PCC has been named three years in a row an Aspin Top Ten
best community college in the nation and recently we won the State's John W. Rice
Best Community College for Student Success. On goal two: Many of you joined
me about decade ago when PCC reviewed its Master Plan and together, we were
extremely instrumental in the demonstrating the need for a PCC campus in our area.
Obviously, when the EMUSD site became available we jumped on it to fulfill that
mutual quest. We know the best way to serve our community is to be in our
community. PCC Rosemead has done just that beyond our imagination: 300-400
Rosemead High graduates will attend PCC Rosemead; the Classes are packed; the
Courses are transfer focused; and the retention rate of our students is even higher
than on the main Colorado campus.
PCC Rosemead has served us magnificently, but now it is threatened for
extinction. We need to Save PCC Rosemead. We need you to talk personally
with each of the EMUHSD Board Members you know. Last time we spoke
together, we were heard, and PCC -Rosemead became a reality. Your vibrant
support for this resolution allows us to speak together again with one clear voice.
Save PCC Rosemead."
There being no further speakers, Mayor Armenta closed the Public Comment period.
Council Member Clark asked if it is okay with Council, I would like to add to the
fourth "Whereas" in the resolution the following: "Whereas, PCC pays out more
than $751,000 each year, supplying much needed revenue to support El Monte
Union High School District programs and services".
Council Member Ly indicated support for the resolution, thanking Council Member
Clark for bringing this item up; opined it is very disappointing that the El Monte
Union High School District would even consider pulling out of the agreement
with PCC; PCC -Rosemead is crucial because it not only serves students of
Rosemead High School but the surrounding communities that utilize it as either
a transitional to college or a career progressor; expressed closing this campus would
be detrimental to the community.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 16 of 21
Council Member Dang concurred that PCC is a recognized leader among the city
colleges and it's great that we have such a flagship campus in our backyard;
opined we need to preserve our resources and we cannot afford these PCC classes
be allocated for this program.
Mayor Pro Tem Low echoed her colleagues' thoughts and support for the PCC
campus to remain in Rosemead.
Mayor Armenta stated as an alumni that she can attest Rosemead High School has
always been the red headed stepchild of the El Monte Union High School District
(EMUHSD), which is why the city used our Redevelopment funding to build a track
at Rosemead High School because a lot of items were not moving forward for them;
indicated at a public forum, two Board Members who were up for election both
stressed they would fight to ensure accessibility to higher education — if that were
true, it does not make sense why you would even contemplate closing the
Rosemead site? Questioned is it just higher education for the schools in'El Monte
or all the schools within the District? Emphasized the City was not part of the
conversation to see if other options could be provided — if it wasn't for the fact that
it was brought to Council Member Clark's or my attention, the Rosemead campus
would just have disappeared without any notice. Mrs. Armenta noted she taught
Special Ed for 20 years and agrees that these programs are needed, however, the
Granada facility can provide these same services for the transitional program. It is
very disheartening to know that EMUHSD is receiving revenue from PCC
Rosemead, yet they are still thinking about closing it even though no other schools
will garnish that kind of revenue for them.
Council Member Clark reiterated that EMUHSD receives more than $751,000
of revenue each year from the PCC Rosemead campus; expressed concern that
input was solicited from the community without letting us know what was said
during the Stakeholder Committee meeting; expressed she is very upset that the
School District is pushing for this during a time when our people are worried about
work, their next meal, or catching COVID — the pandemic does not allow us to walk
the streets to make residents aware of this issue; encouraged Council and residents
to share about this with other members of the community through their social media
platforms; thanked Council for the support.
ACTION: Moved by Council Member Ly and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Low
to adopt Resolution No. 2020-52, as amended, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF.
CALIFORNIA, IN SUPPORT OF A PASADENA CITY
COLLEGE CAMPUS AT 4105 N. ROSEMEAD BOULEVARD,
IN THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 17 of 21
Motion was carried out by the following vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang,
Low, Ly ABSENT: None
C. Resolution No. 2020-51 — Expressing Support for Actions to Further Strengthen
Local Democracy, Authority and Control as Related to Local Zoning and
Housing Issues
This item is presented to the City Council at the request of Council Member
Margaret Clark. She would like to discuss and request your approval of
Resolution No. 2020-51, related to the support for actions to further strengthen
local democracy, authority, and control of local zoning and housing issues.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2020-51, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES,
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, EXPRESSING SUPPORT
FOR ACTIONS TO FURTHER STRENGTHEN LOCAL
DEMOCRACY, AUTHORITY, AND CONTROL AS
RELATED TO LOCAL ZONING AND HOUSING
ISSUES
Council Member Clark stated there are several cities that are passing this resolution
because it is important that we take a stand about the local control issues on zoning
since some of the bills would have an adverse effect on minority communities;
expressed concern the bills will cause gentrification and that developers will be
incentivized to build fourplexes or eightplexes but they will not be affordable;
opined we need to present this resolution to the legislators to emphasize that there
is no money for affordable housing in the bills.
Council Member Ly indicated support for this resolution as there is a desire by the
city to build more housing, but we have to do it the right way so that it still fits the
fabric of Rosemead; opined we want and need a variety of housing stocks both
affordable housing and at competitive pricing levels in a community to ensure we
have different mixing of income groups and community types — that is how you
build diversity and understanding within our communities.
Council Member Dang concurred, we need to increase our housing stock both
systematically and logically, but we shouldn't be bulldozed by our state legislature
to do it a certain way; sided with Council Member Clark that legislature has to
give us time to respond and act appropriately; noted he would be willing to work
with Council Member Clark and staff to revise the language to clarify and make
our message clearer in the resolution.
Council Member Clark emphasized we need to act quickly and not delay too much
because some of the bills have already been introduced this week.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 18 of 21
Mayor Pro Tem Low agreed with Council Member Clark that we should have more
local control and on a case-by-case basis; expressed that Council Member Dang
is also correct that the resolution is vague and does not get our message across;
suggested instead of a resolution, that the city should be more involved with
organizations such as the League of California Cities and Contract Cities because
they can really help convince our legislators that certain bills are not good for
the city rather than just saying we are opposed to the current practice of legislature.
Mayor Armenta stated one size does not fit all as we have seen many times when a
bill is introduced, it does not apply to our city or we are not able to sustain what
they are asking; stressed that we fight tooth and nail to keep local control because
Council and staff knows what is conducive for the city.
Mayor Pro Tem Low asked what the timeframe is for us to submit this resolution
and if there is a particular bill out there that we want to oppose? Reiterated we need
to be clear what message as a Council we are trying to convey; thinks it is better if
a resolution addresses a specific bill that is sent to a particular legislator.
Council Member Clark responded there were several bills that didn't meet the
deadline because of COVID, noting everything came to a halt on August 30th,
so everything is going to come back quickly; stated she would appreciate if we
could finalize the resolution by our next Council meeting on January 12th; affirmed
that although we are involved with the League, agreed with Mayor Pro Tem Low
that we need to make sure we are more vocal at the League.
Mayor Armenta opined she believes there are no bills being passed right now
because the legislature did reconvene only to swear in their newly elected or
re-elected legislators and they will recess again and reconvene in January.
Council Member Clark suggested staff get together with Council Member Dang
and our lobbyist, Joe Gonsalves, to review the resolution.
Mayor Armenta indicated the new legislation starts in January, which is a two-year
cycle; noted it has been made clear from leadership of both houses that housing
bills will be passed; expressed it is important that we take that into consideration
when we are in the forefront of dialogue with our legislators.
Council Member Clark emphasized we need to ensure we talk about money for
the affordability since redevelopment was taken away and they are weaponizing
Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) numbers with mandates.
City Manager Molleda clarified that you want us to meet with our lobbyist
Gonsalves, and Council Members Clark and Dang, to specify the bills that we
want to focus on and then bring back the resolution at our next Council meeting
for approval.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 19 of 21
Mayor Armenta and Council Member Clark concurred that is Council's direction.
D. Council Comments
Council Member Clark expressed the 10 FWY on/off ramp on San Gabriel
Boulevard is confusing as there are two lanes — one is for turning right on Hellman
Avenue and the second is to enter the freeway; noted she was almost hit when a car
decided they were in the wrong lane and wanted to get in the freeway after all;
inquired if Caltrans can affix the large sticker signs that says "10 FWY" on the
ground to make the directions clear.
City Manager Molleda responded our Public Works staff can take care of that.
Council Member Ly wished everyone a happy, healthy and safe holiday season!
Council Member Dang thanked our staff and Chief of Police for their efforts
during this past year with the multiple challenges faced; wished everyone a
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Mayor Pro Tem Low wished everyone Happy Holidays; asked Council Members
Ly and Dang for an update on the projects that the Commercial Task Force are
discussing and how we can help move the projects along.
City Manager Molleda interjected so that this does not become a Brown Act
violation; noted the Commercial Task Force will be meeting with Council
Members Ly and Dang this Thursday, then we will provide the draft policy at the
January 12th Council meeting.
Mayor Armenta inquired if we are holding any toy drives or food drives so that
people can drop-off an unwrapped toy or goods.
City Manager Molleda replied that our Fire Departments are taking in toys and
looking for organizations within Rosemead to donate those toys to.
Mayor Armenta emphasized it is important for new homeowners to understand our
Code so that they are aware what our requirements are, such as the height of a fence;
suggested Council Member Dang lend his expertise and work with staff to keep our
residents better informed.
Council Member Dang responded that he would be happy to work with staff and
develop an action plan to bring back to Council.
Mayor Armenta thanked Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking and his staff
for all their extra efforts even in the darkest times they are bringing happiness
during the holidays with the elf stories online, responses from letters to Santa, and
Santa riding through town.
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 20 of 21
7. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Armenta adjourned the meeting at 10:10 p.m., in memory of Diane Drange.
The next regular City Council meeting scheduled on January 12, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.,
in the Council Chamber.
Ericka Ffe�rnandez!Ghy Clerk
APPROVED:
Polly r
Rosemead City Council, Successor Agency to the Community Development
Commission and Housing Development Corporation Regular Joint Meeting
Minutes of December 8, 2020
Page 21 of 21