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CC - Minutes - 09-08-20MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION SPECIAL AND REGULAR JOINT MEETING SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 The special meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Armenta at 6:05 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 (teleconferenced), Dang and Ly (teleconferenced) ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Molleda, Assistant City Manager Kim, City Attorney Burrows, Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo, and City Clerk Hernandez 1. WORKSHOP A. Small Lot Division Discussion On May 26, 2020, Council Member Sean Dang conducted a presentation on Small Lot Subdivisions. After the presentation, the City Council directed staff to conduct a workshop for further discussion on Small Lot Subdivisions. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo stated this is a continuation of a discussion started in May; explained small lot subdivisions are a hybrid housing typology that looks and functions like row townhomes but where each unit is built independently on individual "small lots". There are no commonly owned areas or homeowner's association. Noted the Los Angeles County recently adopted a compact lot ordinance. Mrs. Frausto-Lupo displayed examples of small lot subdivisions; discussed the advantages and disadvantages of small lot developments; indicated in the City of Los Angeles, small lots can only be developed in multi -family or commercially zoned lots. If the City Council adopts a Small Lot ordinance, staff recommends only allowing it in Medium Multiple Residential (R-3) zone, which includes Rosemead Boulevard, Walnut Grove Avenue, Del Mar Avenue and Hellman Avenue; noted other residential zones like Single -Family Residential (R-1) and Light Multiple Residential (R-2) zones are established with single-family dwellings. Shared that staff conducted a survey of surrounding cities which included Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, Montebello, Monterey Park, San Gabriel, South El Monte, and Temple City; indicated that no cities in our immediate area currently have or plan to introduce a small lot ordinance. Mrs. Frausto-Lupo stated should the City Council wish to proceed with the development of a small lot ordinance, the next step would be to hire a Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 1 of21 professional land use consultant with small lot subdivision experience to identify parcels suitable for small lot developments; create the small lot ordinance and design guidelines; amend Zoning and Subdivision Codes; and to establish a review process to coordinate subdivision with other Codes. Council Member Ly asked why there is a need to hire a consultant versus having the Planning staff manage this. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo indicated none of the staff are land use experts in terms of this specific topic; stated we would want a consultant to help develop the standards since these properties are typically developed vertically. The Los Angeles County requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP); would we require a CUP or would we allow it by right? What would be best for the city and is compatible in the neighborhoods? Emphasized a consultant would be able to offer their expertise and help determine these sorts of questions. Council Member Ly said he is not negating what consultants do; however, he cannot see how a consultant could better understand the community than our Planning staff who is familiar with the daily land use requests. Expressed hesitation as he has seen consultants try to push what they think is the best and often it's not what's best for Rosemead. For example, the initial Garvey Avenue Specific Plan had great land use concepts in terms of open and communal space, but did not really fit the look of what was best along Garvey Avenue. Council Member Clark concurred with Council Member Ly; indicated she is not ready to proceed with this because of the high density and the fact that they are not allowing yards or trees, especially when we are recognized as a Tree City USA. Opined she would like to postpone this item until we look at the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) numbers and how we are going to implement that. Mayor Pro Tem Low inquired if we came up with a small lot ordinance, could we address some of the disadvantages such as setback requirements; agreed with staff that if we proceeded with this, it would have to be in high density areas only; echoed Council Member Ly's sentiment on consultants not knowing what is best for the city. Expressed it is interesting that none of the surrounding cities have a small lot ordinance; asked why other cities are not considering it and have staff heard from the developers they are working with if developers are interested in having small lots as an option. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo responded we could; however, the purpose of a small lot subdivision is to utilize and maximize the land so the land will be subdivided into spaces to allow various units. In speaking with some of my colleagues in other cities, the general consensus is that this type of tool really benefits the developer more so than a resident or the neighborhood. Elaborated that the City of LA is the one who has had it the longest since 2005; homeowners pushed for it, however the long-term residents in that neighborhood cannot afford it because the prices on those homes are very expensive. Opined based off the amount Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 2 of 21 of ADU requests that we are receiving, there is a definite interest in small lot developments because Rosemead is a great community. Mayor Armenia expressed concern for gentrification as many of our residents are barely making it and they are renters; agreed with Mayor Pro Tem Low that this should only be in areas identified by staff, stated she is not sure if there is any provision for affordable housing with these types of developments; inquired about property taxes depending on your square footage of your lot. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo stated she does not have an opinion on gentrification, but it goes in line with what people saw in LA — they hoped it would be a tool for homeownership, which it was but for new residents not already within the neighborhood; asserted we have a first-time home buyer program through our CDBG and HOME funds in the city, however, it's difficult for residents to utilize the program because of the housing cost in the San Gabriel Valley. Council Member Dang thanked Mrs. Frausto-Lupo for the presentation; referenced slide 3 of the PowerPoint, which explained from an average person's perspective, that you cannot tell a typical apartment building from a small lot subdivision. Opined the small lot subdivision ordinance would not change the impact or dynamics of the neighborhood; emphasized the cost of these homes is driven by the market because we are in the San Gabriel Valley. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo clarified if a new developer purchased an older 20 -unit apartment building and wanted to subdivide the lot to build 5 small lot subdivisions — those renters who were in that apartment may not be able to purchase one of those homes because of the difference they were paying in rent. Council Member Dang acknowledged there is always a struggle between those that encourage home ownership and rental inventory; pointed out that the state offers a menu incentive — for example, if there is a by -right of five units, if the developer volunteers to do 10 or 15% affordable housing, they will receive a density bonus. Mayor Armenia expressed she sees it as a negative when we are looking at developing a 20 -unit apartment into a lot subdivision — we need to consider how many residents would be displaced with this development. Stated there are ways to ensure landlords are not being absentee and upkeeping their property. Council Member Ly stated he believes there is potential for this ordinance or at least the concept, so we should not dismiss it; he agreed with Council Member Clark that we have to keep RHNA numbers in our hindsight as we have to figure out how to house 4,445 houses; if we have to find a way to build those units otherwise, we will be penalized. It's important to keep all our options on the table; establishing a subcommittee that includes a member of the Council and Planning Commission to address how we can utilize other tools to address the RHNA numbers and incorporate these ideas. How many parts of the city are zoned R-3 or higher? And if the mixed-use overlays could be added to the map shared. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 3 of21 Mayor Pro Tem Low opined she would like to explore this concept further, however, she is not interested in converting apartments into subdivisions; stated she would rather like to see empty lots or areas of a lot that need to be revitalized; if we do this concept right, it will help with homeownership opportunities. Council Member Clark indicated support for Council Member Ly's suggestion to establish a subcommittee; expressed interest in serving on the subcommittee as she would really like to give input with the RHNA numbers from her experience on the Regional Council, and noted she was not able to be on the Garvey Avenue Specific Plan Subcommittee as she lived too close to the project. Council Member Dang agreed with Mayor that it is not meant to take a 20 -unit apartment and convert it into a small lot subdivision. It has to be built on its own foundation, and you cannot slice up an existing foundation. These are for brand new structures, which is the only way banks would finance it. He thanked his colleagues for their attention to this item and staff for their efforts to gather the presented information. Mayor Armenta thanked Council Member Dang for clarifying that, as it put her mind at ease. Council Member Ly proposed to agendize the creation of a subcommittee that would address the small lot subdivision as well as the RHNA numbers as it will be a conjoined issue. By consensus, the City Council directed staff to agendize for the next Council meeting the creation of and appointment to the subcommittee that would address the small lot subdivision and RHNA numbers. Mayor Armenta adjourned the Workshop at 6:54 p.m. RECONVENE TO REGULAR MEETING 7:00 P.M. STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Molleda, Assistant City Manager Kim, City Attorney Burrows, 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 Council Member Ly INVOCATION was led by Mayor Armenta 2. PUBLIC COMMENT Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 4 of 21 Mayor Armenia opened the Public Comment period. Mayor Armenta shared a comment received via email from Stephanie Moreno of the San Gabriel Water Quality Authority, inviting the City Council to attend a special update for city officials via an online webinar, which will be held Thursday, October 1, 2020, at 2 p.m.; topics will include new city funding for groundwater treatment and PFAS impact on the San Gabriel Valley. There being no other speakers, Mayor Armenta closed the Public Comment period. 3. PRESENTATIONS A. Presentation of Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Award Interim Director of Finance Dr. Miller stated the Award is presented to the city by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. Acknowledge and honor state and local governments that go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles in preparing their Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFR) showing that they have the spirit of transparency and full disclosure in their reporting. All recipients must pass a strict set of accounting guidelines and financial statement criteria as judged by independent expert reviewers. Acknowledged the Finance Department staff, both past and present, did a lot to achieve this award for the city. Council Member Ly congratulated the Finance Department for a great j ob to ensure we have the budget to provide the programs and services we do to the community. Council Member Dang congratulated the Finance Department and thanked them for their hard work, especially during these challenging times. Mayor Pro Tem Low thanked the Finance Department for all their efforts. Mayor Armenia thanked Dr. Miller for leading the Finance team during these challenging times; acknowledged it is a team effort to achieve this. B. Chamber of Commerce Presentation Update Ray Jan, Executive Director, Rosemead Chamber of Commerce (RCC) presented a PowerPoint of the Chamber's financial annual report. Shared that the city's funding of $200,000 is being used for the following projects: 1. Rosemead Visitor Center Remodeling and Upgrade; 2. Hospitality Drive to promote local small businesses; 3. New programs and new events; 4. Membership outreach and retention; 5. Additional staff to expand Chamber services; and 6. Website Upgrade through BID Zone and Whitepaper. Discussed various events, including "The Taste of Rosemead"; SGV Real Estate Synergy, which is a half-day seminar to promote Rosemead real estate, Garvey Avenue Specific Plan, and Auto Auction Lot; First-time home buyer fair; Powerhour Luncheon — a joint event with Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 5 of 21 Rosemead Sister City Committee to welcome the new LASD Sheriff to promote public safety; Lunch N Learn Series Industry — focus learning seminars co -hosted with current members to promote their business and networking event; and the International Women's Day Mixer. Membership Drive & Member Outreach — the goal is to reach and maintain 300 active members by June 2020, RCC is at 215 members at the moment. New Members recruited from Jan. 2018- present is 56 new accounts. Council Member Clark stated I'm impressed with all the things that you've been doing even during COVID. However, I wonder about the $3,000-$5,000 restaurant cost for the Taste of Rosemead event; expressed concern whether this is the best time to start this event with so many restaurants not being fully opened due to the pandemic; inquired if there is a better way to get more volunteers or to help reduce the cost. Ms. Jan responded the cost provided was an estimate which we are trying to lower; emphasized we are exploring different opportunities such as partnering with PCC or the El Monte -Rosemead Adult School who have a graphic design team that can help us save money on flyers, etc. She stated since not all businesses are fully reopened yet, we are focusing on those that are open and struggling such as restaurants, tea shops and coffee shops; asserted we will reevaluate once more businesses fully reopen to see if there is a better way to help them rebuild faster. Council Member Dang thanked Ray Jan for the very in-depth presentation to ensure that Council is fully aware of how the Chamber of Commerce's finances are spent; applauded her efforts for being creative and really trying to make the best of this pandemic situation. He stated he was happy to hear that the Virtual Wine Tasting was a successful event and is hopeful that the Taste of Rosemead will garner the same success. Mr. Dang urged the Chamber to tap into its members and resources to continue supporting these social programs, food giveaways, and personal protective equipment (PPE) donations. He understands this pandemic has made things very difficult but agreed with Council Member Ly that there is some structural financial deficit that we really need to look into. However, for now, thanked Ms. Jan for the information and details. Mayor Pro Tem Low thanked Ray Jan for her efforts as she knows it is not easy to manage the Chamber. She opined that the Chamber tries really hard, but nowadays businesses can do a lot of things on their own through the internet so that means less necessity for the Chamber. Mrs. Low indicated it is hard for her to follow the profit and loss sheets; stated she noticed there is a line item called "interest from the term loan", inquired if the Chamber has a loan out and for how much. Ms. Jan confirmed the Chamber has a loan in the amount of $120,000. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked if the Chamber is still paying interest on that and if so, are you paying down the loan or just paying interest? Ms. Jan replied we are just paying interest. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 6 of 21 Mayor Pro Tem Low asked if the Chamber had any money prior to the city giving the Chamber $200,000 in 2017 or if that was your starting point? Ms. Jan stated we always had that loan, noting at that point that we were very, very low as well; pointed out that we keep the funding separate. Mrs. Low clarified her question — Did the chamber have a positive balance before the $200,000 was given and not counting the loan? Ms. Jan responded the loan was taken out around six or seven years ago as an equity loan, then it transferred, so we did not have any money at that time. Mayor Pro Tem Low reiterated that the Chamber took out a loan and were using that money, then in 2017 the city gave you $200,000 at the time you came to Rosemead, however the $120,000 loan money was spent and currently have a loan balance. To make it clear the Chamber started with $200,000 and right now has $123,000 in the bank. Ms. Jan affirmed that is correct. Mayor Pro Tem Low expressed concern that the Chamber continues to have a negative and emphasized something needs to be done to stop this; opined the Chamber will eventually spend the $200,000 given by the city and will still have $120,000 loan to pay; inquired how much they pay for the loan interest per year. Mrs. Low asked staff to work with the Chamber on their profit and loss sheets to summarize the income and expenses data in terms of numbers. Ms. Jan replied we are paying about $587 a month, so roughly $7,000 per year for the loan. Mayor Pro Tem Low stated if that is the case, then she does not understand why the line item "interest from term loan" is for $15,911. Ms. Jan indicated that is from 2017 through July 31, 2020. Mayor Pro Tem Low clarified so the Chamber is paying $7,000 per year with a fixed interest rate. Ray Jan confirmed that is correct. Mayor Pro Tem Low reiterated her concern that even with the city allocating $200,000 to the Chamber that they will still have an outstanding loan. Mayor Armenta thanked Ray Jan for the detailed presentation; commended her for thinking outside the box and searching for different ways to generate revenue; stated unfortunately no matter how much planning we do, it's very hard to plan for the unknown especially with COVID-19. I share the same concern as my colleagues as to whether our Chamber of Commerce will be able to stay afloat. RosemeadCit Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 7 of 21 Asserted that Ray Jan has always been a great partner to the City of Rosemead by providing help to our businesses, cooperating with the city on food drives and PPE donations. I really want to thank you, the board, and its members for always finding a way to help. We must look into the numbers and make sure that you are staying afloat because the city's hands are going to be tied as we ourselves are already facing a deficit. Stated in order for the city to have thriving businesses, we need to have a strong Chamber of Commerce, so we want to help figure out how to get Chamber's finances sustainable in the future. Mayor Pro Tem Low indicated she is just thinking worst case scenario — if the Chamber spends the loan of $120,000, who is responsible for the loan and what are the consequences. Ms. Jan replied while the Chamber has had the net loss ever since they lost the redevelopment fund, they took out a loan against the house as equity to cover the previous year's expense. Then later, one of our Board Members helped us with a with a personal loan. So, if worst comes to worst, since the Chamber has a loan against the property, we will lose the property. Mayor Pro Tem Low asked is the loan from the bank or is it from a personal loan? Ms. Jan clarified it is a personal guaranteed loan and we used the Chamber house as collateral. Mayor Pro Tem Low inquired will we lose the house to a bank or will the house be sold to a person. Ray Jan stated it will be sold to a person. She responded to Council Member Ly's comments from earlier; acknowledged the numbers are very concerning right now, however we still want to have a professional full-time staff or contractor to help us with the ongoing projects; asserted there are different ways to solve the loan issue as Chamber is fortunate to have a property of our own — If needed, we can take out a loan or increase the loan amount but we would rather not take out another loan because we will eventually have to pay that back. There are other alternative options such as renting all the back offices for $800 a month, which will help generate about $8,000 to $9,000 income per year. We have not completed a full study about all the pros and cons or all the expenses we might incur if we were to rebuild the building into a different property use. Mayor Pro Tem Low stated she would not recommend taking out another loan against the property to pay off this loan; asked if the house was donated by someone to the Chamber? City Manager Molleda responded I'm not quite sure, however, I don't believe the city donated it. Ms. Jan indicated back in the late 1980s with the TLT project, the chamber of health was a project. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 8 of 21 Mayor Pro Tem Low asked if we could look back at the history; stated her first thought is to use the remaining balance of $123,000 to pay off the $120,000 loan and deal with it afterwards. Otherwise, they won't have the money to pay it off and you're going to eventually lose the property. City Manager Molleda stated this is the first time that staff hears about this. Mayor Armenia suggested trying to renegotiate with the person that gave you the personal loan if there is any way to lower the interest rate to pay it off sooner; expressed she would hate for it to come down to Chamber losing the house. Mayor Pro Tem Low concurred with Mayor Armenta, stating that is why I recommended paying off the loan with the remaining money. Ms. Jan responded we have been paying on time, and the interest rate is low, but we can try to renegotiate it lower; agreed with Mayor Pro Tem Low that we do not want to take out another loan and we definitely do not want to ask the City for more as the City has already been very generous to the Chamber; asserted we have to work on a better action plan to figure out our financials. Mayor Armenia reiterated that city staff will help the Chamber figure out an action plan. Council Member Ly stated city staff has been engaged with the Chamber on this, so frankly, it needs to be the Chamber's responsibility to come up with this plan. The city did more than its fair share by giving a $200,000 grant; noted he was one of the big advocates to push this on the Council level. So, from my perspective, there are two key critical conditions — One was that the Chamber needed to come up with a plan to eliminate this structural deficit and second they need to hire staff to implement programs that create value in our community, specifically business community. I am sorry to say but I don't feel that I can trust the Chamber as these two items were not accomplished even prior to COVID. Mayor Armenia stated Council Member Ly's comments are duly noted; recalled there were stipulations in place regarding the money that was given to the Chamber, so I'm just trying to figure out a middle ground; asked if the City Manager had any concerns or input to share. City Manager Molleda added that city staff is more than willing to sit down with the Chamber to look through these financials as we have done in the past; asserted to help them, they need to be able to give us their paperwork to provide their complete financials. Mayor Armenia replied I appreciate that information; emphasized we can only do so much if we are not given all the information. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 9 of2l Ms. Jan stated she will follow up with the City Manager and be sure to provide all their paperwork; thanked City Manager Molleda and Assistant City Manager Kim for always being willing to help. She extended a sincere apology to Council Member Ly for inadvertently losing his trust in the Chamber. We just need to work harder to strive to achieve the things we haven't fulfilled yet. Mayor Armenta thanked Ray Jan again for this thoughtful presentation and looks forward to speaking soon. C. Homeless Plan Workshop The City Council will discuss the City's current homeless needs and priorities to provide direction of the development of a Homeless Plan. Kate Bristol Director of Consulting and Jaclyn Grant, Senior Consultant, of Focus Strategies, presented a PowerPoint discussing the goals and elements of the plan: understand local needs and context; explore potential homelessness response strategies to create a strategic plan that advances efforts to prevent and reduce homelessness; identify key stakeholders needed to implement identified strategies; develop action steps for identified strategies, including policies which may need to shift and/or resources which may need to be leveraged; and to determine opportunities for coordination on strategies where there is alignment with existing continuum of care implementation efforts. Emphasized it is important to discuss current needs, strategies and priorities by asking: What are the most urgent or significant needs in Rosemead related to homelessness? What are existing strengths and challenges of the City's current response to homelessness within Rosemead? Are there specific policy, program, or collaboration opportunities you think could yield a significant impact on homelessness within Rosemead? Mayor Armenta opened the floor for discussion. Council Member Dang thanked Ms. Bristol and Ms. Grant for the presentation. He noted that one of the strategies was to identify some of the support facilities, strengthen their relationship and our responsiveness of homelessness and possibly aid those facilities. He inquired if they have a map or location of these facilities and what do they specialize in within the neighboring cities. Ms. Grant expressed that they would be happy to provide the Council with information on services that are available in the neighboring cities. She indicated they met with some of the stakeholders who provide services throughout Service Planning Area 3 and across the San Gabriel Valley; noted these stakeholders either come into Rosemead regularly to provide outreach services or who have services available to people who might be in Rosemead but accessing services. Council Member Dang opined the easiest way to provide immediate help to the homeless community would be to tap into some of these services and support facilities that already exist as opposed to the City of Rosemead trying to find land and build a facility. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 10 of 21 Mayor Pro Tem Low understands there are different needs amongst the homeless population as some families are down on luck and just need a place to stay, and others are homeless due to drugs or substance abuse. She indicated the City of Los Angeles has built temporary housing for the homeless, however she has heard it didn't quite work because some of the homeless do not want to be in housing. Stated we can provide housing but questioned whether it would really help. Ms. Bristol explained that the research and data from the field tells us the only way to end homelessness is for each individual person to become housed. Stated people have different preferences and choices around housing, so they may not be interested in what is being offered. Noted a lot of times, they prefer not to be in a congregate shelter because it is a highly restrictive kind of environment; emphasized majority of people who are unsheltered will accept the housing if you offer them a non -congregate slot. It also depends on what additional support is provided in conjunction with the housing and that will vary depending on the person's situation and challenges. Mayor Pro Tem Low inquired about the likeliness of the homeless individuals not accepting what the agency is offering. Ms. Bristol expressed that she does not know for a fact in relation to folks experiencing homelessness specifically in Rosemead but in general, yes; asserted there not being enough different housing options for people to fit their needs has been one of the challenges in trying to reduce the amount of unsheltered homelessness in California and in the United States. Ms. Grant ascertained from the feedback received so far from the stakeholders that the term "emergency housing" was being utilized in different ways by different people. She discussed the different models — the traditional model of a congregate shelter is where several people are staying in one building and often with ongoing 24-hour staff support; the more popular model is staying in non -congregate sites like a motel, obtaining emergency motel vouchers, or being able to look at smaller sites that have fewer people in a space for a period of time. She echoed what Ms. Bristol shared for the majority of people experiencing homelessness there is interest in housing and services, but exactly what that looks like can vary by person and it is crucial to understand what an individual person's needs might be to help them regain housing. Mayor Pro Tem Low noted that LA County has a lot of services available; inquired if those families and individuals who want help and are willing to go to any type of housing have been mostly taken care of by the County. Ms. Grant responded that depending on the type of service that's offered, there are data reports on how many individuals or families go into each program, reconnect with housing, and retain their housing over time; shared that by and large, the data across the County shows that that more and more people each year are finding successful outcomes through those programs and services. On the other side of that, Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 11 of21 even as available services continue to grow in the County, the data also shows that more and more people are becoming homeless every year. While the successes are becoming more prominent by year, the challenges are also becoming more prominent by the kind of increase in people needing those services. The overall is showing that programs and services are having results in impact. If you want more details, it will depend on the type of program, cities, and providers; noting you might see some variants based on what you're looking at. Mayor Armenta shared that the City of Rosemead started the Quality of Life program, where City staff, our local trash hauler - Republic Services, the Sheriffs Department and the LA County Department of Public Health, has gone out before to offer the homeless folks shelter, programs and services available, however, many of them would refuse help. She opined one of the reasons for the growing numbers of homeless is because our chronic homelessness is often overlooked. Those are the people that need the most help and its very daunting with the housing in California, especially with COVID-19 where people are losing their jobs and homes. She appreciates the Homeless Plan, however, urged staff to focus more on including chronic homelessness. Mayor Armenta stated that SB 751 would authorize the creation of the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust, a joint powers authority (JPA) — the purpose of funding housing to assist the homeless population and persons and families of low income within the San Gabriel Valley. It is a competitive grant overseen by the San Gabriel Valley Council of Government (SGVCOG). She inquired if this could also be included in the Homeless Plan even though the city has not voted to be part of the JPA; added that this could also be another tool for affordable housing in Rosemead. There are many people throughout the city that are not getting the services they need due to mental health issues and once that is addressed, then there will be a higher chance we could get them into a shelter or housing of some sort. City Manager Molleda responded that staff can research SB 751 and bring it back to Council for discussion. Mayor Armenta stated for full disclosure that SB 751 is a bill authored by Senator Susan Rubio who she works for, but she is not pushing the bill for that purpose; emphasized if the Council chooses to join the JPA, this bill will serve as another tool to address affordable housing. Council Member Clark expressed that she is very passionate about this issue; asserted that we need to get people with mental illness and drug addiction into actual treatment. She shared from personal experience that she tried to help people with drug addiction, but it did not work because they must be willing to get into a treatment. She thanked Senator Rubio for addressing this issue; opined there's a lot more people on the verge of homelessness due to COVID-19 as they lost their job and can't afford rent, so she hopes that we can utilize this program to assist people. Council Member Clark noted that she is on the Homeless Committee with SGV COG, and the City of Monrovia has a very good program in terms of reaching Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 12 of 21 out to people, finding solutions to help people that are down on their luck from becoming homeless. She added that she would like to see more of that. Hearing no additional comments, Mayor Armenia thanked Ms. Bristol and Ms. Grant for the presentation and looks forward to working with them on the Homeless Plan. 4. PUBLIC HEARING - None 5. CONSENT CALENDAR City Manager Molleda asserted that Item E will be pulled and tabled for a future meeting. Mayor Armenta noted this item is being postponed so that the public has an opportunity to speak on this item once city facilities open. ACTION: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Low and seconded by Council Member Dang to approve Consent Calendar Items A, B, D, and F. Council Member Dang pulled Item C for separate discussion. 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. 2020-34 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $679,276.03 NUMBERED 107286 THROUGH NUMBER 107409 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-34. • Resolution No. 2020-15 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 $1,780,165.91 DRAFTS NUMBERED 4643 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2020-15 SA. B. Approval of Minutes Recommendation: That the City Council adopt the regular meeting minutes of July 9, 2019 and September 10, 2019. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 13 of 21 D. Approval of Traffic Commission Recommendations from the August 6, 2020, Traffic Commission Meeting for Curb Markings At the August 6, 2020 Traffic Commission Meeting, staff presented the following two items for review and consideration: 1. Garvey Avenue Line of Sight Review at the Driveway for the Palm Hotel (8463 Garvey Avenue); and 2. Review of Parking Conditions on Marshall Street between Bartlett Avenue and Muscatel Avenue. Recommendation: That the City Council approve Traffic Commission recommendations for the following items: Garvey Avenue Line of Sight Review at the Driveway of the Palm Hotel (8463 Garvey Avenue): Installation of approximately 30' (feet) of red curb east of the driveway along the north side of Garvey Avenue. This recommendation is based on AASHTO's guidelines for Stopping Sight Distance. The red curb will improve line of sight and will allow vehicles exiting the Palm Motel driveway to see vehicles approaching westbound on Garvey Avenue in the curb lane traveling 35 mph. This will remove approximately one parking space in front of the Palm Motel and will still allow for 5 vehicles to park along the curb in front of the adjacent businesses; and 2. Review of Parking Conditions on Marshall Street between Bartlett Avenue and Muscatel Avenue: Installation of red curb from Bartlett Avenue to Muscatel Avenue on the north side of Marshall Street. This will remove approximately nine parking spaces; it will reinforce the existing no parking signage due to insufficient street width needed to allow for both parking and a travel lane in the WB direction. The segment from the wash to Muscatel Avenue is already posted with No Parking. The red curb will serve to make the "No Parking" segment more visible. Installation and replacement of the faded street sweeping parking restriction sign (R30A) at the southeast corner of the intersection of Marshall Street and Dubonnet Avenue. F. City Council Confirmation of Designation and Appointment of Interim Finance Director/Treasurer The City has been trying to recruit a permanent Finance Director for several months. However, with the current COVID-19 issues and other factors, the City has been unable to fill the position. Until the City can fill the position, staff requests the City Council appoint a Retired Annuitant to the position of Interim Finance Director/Treasurer as authorized per California Government Code Sections 7522.56 and 21221(h) and to ensure adequate staffing during this state of emergency. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 14 of 21 This Item is being brought back to the Council to reconfirm its actions due to a clerical error in the agreement regarding rate of pay calculation as required by CalPERS. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following action: 1. Reconfirm and Approve the position of Interim Finance Director/Treasurer and authorize the position as a Retired Annuitant Position per California Government Code Sections 7522.56 and 21221(h); and 2. Reconfirm and Approve the appointment and authorize the City Manager to sign the agreement on behalf of the City with Scott G. Miller as the Interim Finance Director/Treasurer. ITEMS PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION C. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 995 and Adoption for the Approval of MCA 20- 01, Amending Title 17 (zoning) of the Rosemead Municipal Code to Comply with New State Provisions for Accessory Dwelling Units On August 25, 2020, the City Council re -introduced for first reading, by title only, Ordinance No. 995, by amending Title 17 (Zoning) of the Rosemead Municipal Code to Comply with new state provisions for accessory dwelling units (ADU's). Recommendation: That the City Council approve the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 995 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 MCA 20-01, AMENDING TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE ROSEMEAD MUNICIPAL CODE TO COMPLY WITH NEW STATE PROVISIONS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (ADUs) Council Member Dang pulled this item to ask about specific verbiage from the proposed ordinance. He referenced page 4 — Section 4 C.1 of the ordinance, stating he understands this is describing the type of zoning that allows ADUs; indicated the state's language eliminates the design review process, therefore asked staff to clarify why it states ADUs are subject to "design review approval". Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo responded it is her understanding that the design review approval was only specific to ADUs that included a second story. City Attorney Burrows stated that by right under state law, one can get an ADU up to 16 feet; however, if one exceeds 16 feet, meaning a second story ADU, there could be an additional review. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 15 of 21 Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo indicated this could have derived from the previous Council discussion on stairways leading up to the second story. Council Member Dang concurred there was discussion about exterior stairways and limiting the visibility from the public right-of-way; he inquired if the ordinance would have to go back for first reading if we were to strike out that verbiage referencing a design review approval. Council Member Ly stated the way I am reading this, regardless of whatever zone it is in, all plans need to get approved by the Community Development Director or their designee. As part of the administrative process, it requires a site plan and design review. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo opined the intent is not to take a design review to the Planning Commission or City Council; confirmed Council Member Ly is correct that it is part of the process. Council Member Dang opined the way the public reads it, it brings about a different understanding. It's not necessarily a design review, more of an administrative approval. Opined the first part of the language "subject to an administrative site plan" is fine; asked if staff could think of alternative verbiage for the second part, "design review approval". Council Member Ly responded I think design review is the correct verbiage as my architect would draft up the design, and submit it to the Director, and it is the Directors duty to review and determine if a design meets the standards. I understand your concern is you want to ensure design review does not mean it will go through a separate committee for review. Mayor Pro Tem Low stated we want to ensure the wording we have complies with the state level. Council Member Dang emphasized we don't want the homeowner or architect to believe a design review equates to a public hearing as many cities use that verbiage to reflect such. Council Member Ly replied if it were a hearing or to go before a committee, it would explicitly state so. If we make any edits it will have to go through another round of approvals, which means it will get pushed to September. Council Member Dang stated he does not want to have to push the item; he inquired if "design review" is included in the definition section of the Zoning Code. City Attorney Burrows indicated that Assistant City Manager Kim pointed out that Municipal Code Section 17.136.030 describes the process of an administrative site plan and design review approval as: 1) For residential construction over 2,500 Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 16 o(21 square feet requires approval by the Planning Commission; and 2) For smaller buildings an administerial permit is required by the Director of Community Development, which is acceptable under the ADU law. Council Member Dang concurred that 1,200 square feet is under the 2,500; thinking in terms of an apartment that wanted to utilize 25% of conversion and is not a new floor area, would there need to be a Planning Commission review? City Attorney Burrows asserted it would be by right if it meets the minimum state law requirements. Indicated we have two options: 1) Treat this as a first reading in order to revise the language so that it explicitly states the administrative site plan and design review approval is carried out by the Director of Community Development, as well as reference Municipal Code Section 17.136.030; 2) Alternatively, leave the language as is, with the understanding that the review only goes before the Community Development Director and not the Planning Commission. Council Member Dang reiterated he does not want to start over with a first reading; indicated support for moving forward with the current verbiage as long as it is made clear in the official meeting Minutes. Director of Community Development Frausto-Lupo shared we can do our due diligence by having staff share with applicants that it is allowed by right and they do not have to go before the Planning Commission or City Council. Council Member Dang responded that it would work. Mayor Armenta inquired if it would still have to be brought back for first reading if we were to add an asterisk referencing the language in the aforementioned Municipal Code Section? City Attorney Burrows replied to be conservative — yes, it would have to come back for first reading. Council Member Dang thanked Mayor Armenta for her effort to address his concern; stated he is fine with proceeding as is with the meeting Minutes capturing what was discussed. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Dang and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Low to approve the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 995 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 MCA 20-01, AMENDING TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE ROSEMEAD MUNICIPAL CODE TO COMPLY WITH NEW STATE PROVISIONS FOR ACCESSORY Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 17 of 21 DWELLING UNITS (ADUs) Motion was carried out by the following roll call vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low and Ly ABSENT: None E. Approval of Partial Street Closure of Olney Street and Other Traffic Engineering Counter Measures — ITEM TABLED FOR A FUTURE MEETING In 2017, the City received requests to evaluate traffic conditions and traffic calming options on Olney Street between Rio Hondo Avenue and Temple City Boulevard due to reports of speeding and pass-through traffic of vehicles using this segment to access the westbound I-10 Freeway on-ramp on Temple City Boulevard. This item was reviewed and discussed at previous Traffic Commission Meetings. In response to various traffic concerns that were raised by the community at previous traffic commission meetings, staff recommended incremental measures that include a combination of enhanced traffic signage and pavement markings. In addition, many residents also expressed a greater preference to close the east end of Olney Street at Temple City Boulevard and eliminate the westbound I-10 freeway on- ramp access from Olney Street as well as the access to Olney Street from southbound Temple City Boulevard. Based on community input and feedback received from the previous Traffic Commission meetings, this item was presented to City Council for direction. Based on this at the December 11, 2018 City Council Meeting, City Council directed staff to conduct a comprehensive Traffic Analysis Report to review all traffic movements impacting Olney Street and explore the feasibility of closing the east end of Olney Street. A Traffic Analysis Report was completed and presented to the Traffic Commission at the November 7, 2019 Traffic Commission Meeting. Based on the Traffic Analysis Report for Olney Street between Rio Hondo Avenue and Temple City Boulevard, the Traffic Commission recommended partial street closure of Olney Street, closing eastbound Olney Street to the I-10 Freeway WB on-ramp as well as installing radar speed feedback signs, warning signs, and larger speed limit signs on Olney Street to assist with traffic calming. At the December 10, 2019 City Council Meeting the recommendations from the Traffic Commission's November 7, 2019 meeting was presented to City Council. At that City Council Meeting, City Council recommended for staff to proceed with preliminary design and estimates of the recommendations and bring back to City Council for final consideration. Recommendation: That the City Council approve and direct staff to complete the construction plans and proceed with the project which includes a partial street closure of Olney Street by closing the east end of Olney Street to the westbound I- 10 Freeway on-ramp, installing radar speed feedback signs, larger speed limit signs, warning signs and message boards on Olney Street to assist with the new traffic flow and traffic calming. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 18 of21 6. 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 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 Armenia 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. MATTERS FROM MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL A. Discussion and Approval of Letter of Support for Proposition 20 This item is presented to the City Council at the request of Council Member Margaret Clark. She would like to discuss the letter of support for Proposition 20. Recommendation: That the City Council discuss and provide further direction. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 19 of2l Council Member Clark provided an overview of Proposition 20, "Keep California Safe" initiative — the purpose is to clean up the flaws of Proposition 47 and 57 related to criminal justice reforms; opined it is imperative we support this initiative as we would also be supporting our law enforcement's efforts to address this issue. Mayor Pro Tem Low indicated support for Proposition 20 as she is very disappointed with Propositions 47 and 57, as well as AB 109. Council Member Ly concurred with Council Member Clark. Council Member Dang echoed the support of his colleagues. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Ly and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Low to approve the letter of support for Proposition 20. Motion was carried out by the following roll call vote AYES: Armenta, Clark, Dang, Low and Ly ABSENT: None B. Council Comments Council Member Clark asked for Council to recognize Emma Shuey Elementary School for being named a recipient of the California Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports Community Cares Award; shared the award was a result of the "Heroes Poster Project," the brainchild of a second-grade teacher, Brandi Matsdorf; she stated students of all grades made posters honoring essential workers and their efforts during the coronavirus pandemic, and they were posted at various sites such as the Fire Station and the Temple City Sheriff s office. City Manager Molleda affirmed we can agendize their recognition for a future Council meeting and invite them to participate via Zoom since our facilities are physically closed to the public. Mayor Armenta noted Council has been engaging in dialogue during Council Comments at the last few meetings; she emphasized if you want to ask a colleague about an item brought up during their comments, then that should be done outside of the meeting. Council Member Ly requested a status update on the Community Garden and Dog Parks projects be agendized for a future meeting. Wished everyone a safe period to continue our social distancing and safety measures to combat the pandemic. Mayor Armenta shared that she was just informed that Council Member Daniel "Dan" Holloway, City of La Puente, passed away today; noted she sits with him on the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control. Council Member Dang commended staff for doing a wonderful job in helping many restaurants secure the outdoor dining permits; asked if staff could advise businesses to put up signs to reserve parking spots for pick-up/carry-out, especially for businesses where parking is limited. Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 20 of 21 Mayor Pro Tem Low stated Wealth by Health Foundation would like to see if the city is interested in partnering for a drive-by clinic and mobile dental care event; indicated the power went off by her house and she was not informed of any outages — asked staff to work with Edison to ensure residents are made aware of any planned outages in their area. City Manager Molleda stated staff will figure something out with Wealth by Health Foundation; asserted it is her understanding that Edison sends out notices to residents affected by any planned outages; indicated staff can also share any planned outages on the city's social media outlets to spread the word as well. Mayor Armenta referenced the 2020-2021 Annual Budget book, asked where we are at with the budget's deficit. Stated the last time the Council voted on purchasing two new buses for our transportation fleet — the consultant verified the previous provider owed money to the city as we were paying for insurance on a vehicle that was not being used. Requested an update on whether we have received the outstanding money to hold them accountable. City Manager Molleda responded we have a presentation scheduled for the September 22"d meeting on the Budget deficit; stated she will research and relay the status of the outstanding payment to the City Council in the Weekly Update. Mayor Armenta brought up the unprecedented heat waves — noting a resident reached out as a transformer blew out, causing their electricity to go off for an extended period of time which was affecting her elderly sister suffering from dementia; indicated she contacted staff to see what they could do to assist and thanked staff for taking quick action to open an emergency cooling center for residents. City Manager Molleda thanked the staff for taking care of our residents by getting the cooling center ready within the hour; she noted two families showed up that day. 8. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Armenta adjourned the meeting in memory of Council Member Daniel "Dan" Holloway, City of La Puente, and a Navy Veteran; ai-9: _p.m. The next regular scheduled meeting will take place on Septft0er 2Z; _,nZ0, at 7:00 p.m. in the Rosemead City Hall Council Chamber. zEricka Hemandez, City Clerk APPROVED: Mayor Rosemead City Council Special & Regular Meeting Minutes September 8, 2020 Page 21 of 21