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CC - Minutes - 05-28-24 Special & RegularMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION SPECIAL AND REGULAR JOINT MEETING MAY 28, 2024 The special meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Ly at 6:31 p.m., in the Rosemead City Hall Conference Room, located at 8838 East Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, California. PRESENT: Mayor Ly, Mayor Pro Tem Clark (teleconferenced), Council Members Armenta and Low ABSENT: Council Member Dang 1. CLOSED SESSION A. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(d)(2) Significant exposure to litigation: (1 potential case) City Attorney Richman stated there was one item for closed session, any reportable actions would be reported at the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. Mayor Ly recessed the special meeting to Closed Session at 6:33 p.m. REGULAR JOINT MEETING The regular meeting of the Rosemead City and Housing Development Corporation Council was called to order by Mayor Pro Tem Clark at 7:05 p.m., in the Rosemead City Hall Conference Room, located at 8838 East Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, California. PRESENT: Mayor/President Ly, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice President Clark (teleconferenced), Council Members/Board Members Armenta and Low ABSENT: Council Member/Board Member Dang PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was led by Mayor Pro Tem Clark INVOCATION was led by Council Member Armenta STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Kim, City Attorney Richman, Assistant City Manager Rojas, Director of Finance Chua, Director of Public Works Wang, Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking, and City Clerk Hernandez City Attorney Richman reported out from Closed Session there was no reportable action taken by the City Council. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 18, 1024 Page I of 17 2. PUBLIC COMMENT Bob Lopez expressed concerns about recent crime in his cul-de-sac. He stated that every car in the neighborhood has had their car broken into or stolen, including his own vehicle parked on Boydton and Ivar Avenue. He expressed frustration that crime is not being addressed. Thieves keep stealing catalytic converters and it's been ongoing for a while. In addition, Mr. Lopez mentioned he was physically assaulted in front of his yard. Thieves are coming from other places, and the home cameras are not able to capture their faces. Asked for the record to show that he attended the City Council meeting along with 15 other residents about the same issue. City Attorney Richman explained to the public in attendance the rule of open meeting decorum under the Brown Act. Residents could make comments; however, the City Council could not engage in dialogue since the item is not an agenda item for discussion. Sally Luu commended City staff Wayne Co and his staff for being proactive. She noted that she lives on Ivar Avenue and Mr. Co has been very responsive to her calls and follow-up on issues in her neighborhood. She inquired about the status of the residents past concerns regarding the railroad fence, which homeless pedestrians use to cross the median back and forth and have access to the neighborhood. In addition, requested the City to implement a no overnight parking at Grand Avenue because there are many people from across the street of other apartments in San Gabriel that park their vehicles for days at a time. Mayor Ly directed Ms. Luu to speak to Director of Public Works Wang to discuss the parking matter. City Manager Kim replied that staff had been in contact with the railroad agency to try to have the gate fixed or replaced. Ms. Luu stated that residents have called the railroad company and are told that the City is responsible for the fence. She expressed frustration that no one is taking responsibility to fix the fence. City Manager Kim clarified it's the railroad's responsibility to fix the fence, which is on their property and assured that City staff would follow-up with the railroad company. Fred Sumi stated he has lived on Ivar Avenue for over forty years and the last three years have been tough. He has witnessed personal items on the street, indicating individuals check vehicles to see if they are unlocked and steal. In addition, the individuals look at vehicles parked in driveways, and go into people's properties. Mr. Sumi explained that his son works at 4:30 am and is worried for his safety in his own community. Lastly, talked about the fence issue that is missing the entrance gates. He reiterated that residents have called Union Pacific on who is responsible for fixing the fence and has been told that the City is responsible. City staff have told him that Union Pacific is responsible. He expressed frustration on the matters on Ivar, there has been an increase of crime, transients hiding in areas of the railroad. He noted that residents do not know what to do anymore, and therefore came to the City Council meeting to speak up. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 2 of 17 Linda Lopez, a resident for over 20 years stated in frustration that her daughter has been followed just walking down her neighborhood. The same individual that assaulted Mr. Bob Lopez, managed to get inside her house, while her daughter was home, and he explicitly touched himself Although her daughter was able to scare him away, after calling the sheriffs, Deputies could only cite the individual, which later attacked Mr. Bob Lopez two days later. Ms. Lopez stated that the same individual sits in an area where he can see who is coming and going from their homes. She noted that she posted online in the Rosemead Buzz to bring awareness to the neighborhood about the individual. She opined that the community should be safe for kids to walk to school, should not have to deal with these types of safety issues. Urged the City Council to do something to address the increase of crime on Ivar Avenue. Michelle Do, a resident, expressed in the past her concerns with street sweeping issues. She noted she recently was cited for parking in an alley way for a few minutes during street sweeping day. She noted that it was difficult for residents to park almost a half mile away, when street sweeping happens on both sides of the street and the surrounding streets at the same time. She explained that she has expressed concerns in 2021 and 2023 about doing alternate street sweeping days or not citing. Ms. Do stated she lives on Paljay Avenue between Klingerman and Fern Avenue, and cannot park on any surrounding street, because street sweeping is on the same day. Other times, residents park on alley ways for hours at a time, and parking enforcement does not cite them. In addition, has asked her landlord to build some type of parking, such as a driveway, and was told that the City would not allow it. Although, the neighbor has the same property and has a driveway. She asked for a solution to an ongoing parking issue during street sweeping days. Mayor Ly asked Ms. Do to speak to Director of Public Works Wang on the street sweeping issue and Assistant City Manager Rojas about the public safety concerns. Council Member Armenta asked City Manager Kim, if possible, to look into allowing residents to park on alley ways during street sweeping days and not cite. Michael Philips stated that on May 16th, he along with other residents expressed concern to the City Council about the fence issue on Grand Avenue. He noted that he has called Lupe Valdez at Union Pacific, about fixing the railroad fence. He had been trying to connect City staff and Union Pacific staff to communicate to bring a resolution about the fence issue. He also added that he has asked City staff to provide updates so he may share with the residents impacted on Ivar near Grand Avenue. Council Member Armenta asked Mr. Kim, is it possible to invite representatives from Union Pacific, to come to a City Council meeting to answer questions. City Manager Kim replied that City staff will reach out to Union Pacific and make that request. Kristie Lam reiterated the concerns of her neighbors on Ivar Avenue from being assaulted, and strangers walking into homes. She stated that when the individuals assaulted Mr. Lopez, the sheriffs were called but the individuals left. On a second occasion, sheriffs were called, and never showed up. When resident Qui Nguyen heard about these incidents, he immediately called Council Member Sandra Armenta for assistance. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 18, 2024 Page 3 of 17 Alice Talbot stated she moved from the City of Arcadia to the City of Rosemead and was satisfied with her new community. She shared that her home camera has caught individuals near cars checking what is unlocked, but unfortunately, they are always wearing a face mask. She added that people like Bob, who care about the safety of the community, urged her to attend a Council meeting to help address the increase of crime in their neighborhood. Lastly, talked about the parking issues with people who do not live on that street, but rather in other streets that have apartments. Mayor Ly announced that although the item of public safety is not agendized, that there is a caveat in the Brown Act to allow for emergency items to be added to the agenda. He noted that the concerns brought by the residents warranted a discussion as an emergency item and asked the City Council to consider adding the Public Safety item to discuss with Temple Station Sheriff, Captain Meza and Chief of Police, Lt. Tiwari. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Armenta, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Clark to add an emergency public safety discussion on the agenda. Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Low and Ly; NOES: None; ABSENT: Dang Emergency Item Added to the agenda for discussion and direction on public safety matters on Ivar Avenue. City Attorney Richman explained that the item added to the agenda is for the City Council to discuss and provide direction to the Sheriffs Department regarding the incidents that are happening in the Ivar Avenue area. Mayor Ly stated that although the item was not formally on the agenda, the City Council and City staff would continue to work on issues on public safety. Homelessness was brought up as an issue. He announced that at the next meeting, the Rosemead Homelessness Subcommittee, which had been meeting for the past year, would be presenting its proposals to the City Council at the June 11th Council meeting. In addition, under the direction of Council Member Low, the City established a Public Safety Commission as well. He invited the residents to attend the Public Safety Commission meetings, which meet on the last Thursday of every month. Mayor Ly asked Temple Station Sheriff Captain Meza and Chief of Police, Lt. Tiwari to provide some updates in regard to the Ivar neighborhood area and if there were some challenges they were seeing. Captain Meza stated when the issues on Ivar Avenue were brought to his attention, he had been working collaboratively with Lt. Tiwari. He has been looking at each situation that is occurring on Ivar Avenue and has directed Lt. Tiwari to develop a strategic plan in order to address the issues including meeting with the residents on Ivar Avenue to address their concerns. He acknowledged that he appreciated hearing the concerns of the residents living on Ivar and that the safety of the residents was his priority. Chief of Police Lt. Tiwari stated that all concerns are taken seriously. As far as Ivar Avenue and the railroad tracks that lead to the streets, it does provide an ingress and egress due to the fence access, people traverse back and forth. He noted that just being on the railroad Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 4 of 17 tracks is a crime on its own. Lt. Tiwari added that since the increase of crime, deputies have been making efforts for extra patrol and having a presence in the area to help deter crime. Whether it's transient traversing, or just the mere presence alone regardless of the reason or rationale, they have been arrested for and issued a citation for the misdemeanor crime of being in that area. In addition, Special Assignment Deputies had adjusted their hours to cover the patrol hours of 10:00 p.m. to about 5:00 a.m. in the morning. Recently deputies tried to stop a catalytic converter theft, but unfortunately, the thieves were able to get away from the deputies. Those are some of the challenges deputies are dealing with individuals that are committing these types of thefts. Lt. Tiwari reiterated that he did have a crime analysis look at the crime trends in the area. The crime analyst looked at a year-round review from the 4400, 4500, and 4600 block of Ivar over the past 12 months. He reported there was crime reported, and there was a couple of crimes relating to catalytic converter thefts, a few stolen vehicles, and attempted residential burglary in the area, in addition to other crimes such as missing persons and rescue response type crimes. Lt. Tiwari stated that they are looking at different trends to better address certain crimes and continue to conduct extra patrols in the area to make it safer. Council Member Low asked that staff capture the public comments made by the residents related to public safety and receive a copy of the comments to forward to the LA County Sheriffs Office and District Attorney's Office and make them aware of the crimes occurring. She pleaded that both offices need to assist cities in addressing the crime. Secondly, asked Chief of Police, Lt. Tiwari if he has analyzed the crime rate increase in the area. Chief of Police, Lt. Tiwari replied no, he had not analyzed the rate increase comparison but would ask his crime analyst to run that report. Council Member Low stated it was worthwhile to track the data and make a comparison every three months or as necessary to help address the crime trends. The third item Mrs. Low asked about was how many patrol vehicles are actively patrolling the city at night. Chief of Police, Lt. Tiwari explained that from midnight to 2:00 a.m. there are five vehicles. At 2:00 a.m. there are three vehicles patrolling until 6:00 a.m. The three patrol cars are responsible for the entire City of Rosemead and their main objective is handling calls for service in addition to preventative patrolling. Council Member Low reiterated that when a patrol vehicle is at a call, that means there are less vehicles patrolling at the moment. If all three vehicles are at a call or calls, there are no deputies patrolling during that time. Chief of Police, Lt. Tiwari answered affirmatively. Council Member Armenta urged the residents to attend City Council meetings to express their concerns, or else the city is not aware of certain crimes being committed. She stated that had it not been for Mr. Nguyen calling her, she would not know there was ongoing crime in the neighborhood on Ivar Avenue. She talked about the recent tragedy of the actor who lost his life when approaching individuals stealing his catalytic converted. She also explained that residents need to call their LA County Supervisor, Hilda Solis' Office and District Attorney's Office to express their concerns about the increase in crime. Mrs. Armenta Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 18, 1024 Page 5 of 17 explained that Temple Station is one of the highest arresting stations in the County but must release many individuals and only cite them under the direction of the District Attorney's Office. Mrs. Armenta also talked about the parking issues, that people can park in public right of way 72 hours. Suggested to the residents to contact Public Safety when there is a vehicle parked for over 72 hours, for city staff to cite them. She noted that she may be reached via her cell phone available on the City's website and on her business card. Also, asked City Manager Kim about the LACADA services. City Manager Kim explained that the city entered into a contract with a homeless services provider called LACADA, for a four-year period at a cost of $1.2 million dollars. The firm or the staff are out in Rosemead engaging with the homeless population, providing five days a week services and trying to get them shelter. Council Member Armenta shared her cell number with the residents: (626) 676-3965 Mayor Pro Tem Clark agreed with Council Member Armenta and also shared her cell number (626) 833-6673 for residents to call her. She also agreed that getting more deputies in areas where there is more concentration of crime because bad guys have a way of communicating with each other. She stated that it's not the fault of people, but the DA's office who wrote Proposition 47, that allows someone to steal $950 multiple times a day and get a slap on the wrist. Unfortunately, that was the proposition that voters voted called Safe Schools, Safe Streets. In regard to the railroad, she asked if the City could just fix the fence and bill the railroad company after. City Manager Kim explained that the issue is not that the City does not want to secure the area, but it applies to any jurisdictional issue. The City cannot enter private property and make improvements, the property is a railroad jurisdiction, so for the City to enter into the property, there needs to be consent. The city has reached out to the railroad company and will follow-up. Mayor Pro Tem Clark also mentioned the recent tragedy involving actor Johnny Wactor and losing his life to a catalytic converter crime. She noted that crime is not just in Rosemead, but everywhere because individuals know they can get away with crimes. Mayor Ly acknowledged the frustration the residents expressed during the public comment. He stated that different parts of the community come to speak about safety issues. He shared that usually he likes to take a run at night and always felt safe doing it, until recently. Although statistics are good to know, if you don't feel safe in your community, then you are not safe in your community. He reiterated that the city is hamstrung by the District Attorney's office and proofs that considering going charter is an option to have the ability to prosecute certain crimes. He spoke about the Homelessness Subcommittee which would be presenting at the June 11`h City meeting and invited the residents to attend. He requested the City Manager to coordinate a meeting with LA County Sheriff Luna, stating the City of Rosemead is the highest paying city for law enforcement services with LA County and should be able to get more public safety support. He recognizes that as much as the City Council would like to hire more deputies and willing to pay for it, there are no deputies to hire. Mr. Ly proposed, Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 6 of 17 what if the City of Rosemead looked into creating its own reserve police program, that supplements when deputies are conducting community policing and deal with safety issues. He expressed frustration of the lack of safety, residents are feelings. Mr. Ly also talked about the potential contract of AI that would have potentially assisted the Sheriff Department in determining data trends. He noted that theoretically, the questions that Ms. Low asked, had we looked year-to-year, instead of the Lieutenant going back to ask a crime analyst this information, that's information could have been readily available. We have money in the budget for more deputies, but unfortunately, we can't hire anymore right now because there's a restriction. So, we're looking at how else we can use that money to hire other people to patrol the streets. The City Manager recently converted some of the staff members, like Mr. Wayne Co, and his team, along with public safety officers, to do more patrols. He concluded that City staff will continue to communicate and update the residents and hopes to get feedback from the residents. 3. PRESENTATIONS A. Proclamation Declaring May 2024 as "Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month" in the City of Rosemead Sue Yamamoto, Library Manager, talked about the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month programs at the library, the role of the Asian Pacific Resource Center, and thanked the City Council for the Proclamation declaring May as the Heritage Month. The City Council presented a Proclamation to Library Manager Sue Yamamoto. B. Recognition of the 2024 Poetry Contest Winners for the City's Anti -Hate Campaign Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking spoke about the launch of the anti -hate poetry contest, the number of entries received, winners from different age groups, and plans for displaying the winning poems at City Hall and at the Rosemead community centers. He announced the following winners: Group A Winner, Alan Zong; Group B, Erika Martinez; and Group C, Kaylynn Quach. The City Council congratulated the winners and presented certificates of recognition to the winners. 4. PUBLIC HEARING A. Public Hearing Pursuant to Government Code 34458 on Draft City Charter The City Council has been discussing placing a city charter on the ballot at the November 5, 2024 statewide general election. At its March 26, 2024 meeting, the City Council directed that a draft charter be set for public hearing pursuant to State law. This is the first public hearing required by State law on the draft charter. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 7of17 The City Council will be conducting a second hearing on the draft charter at a special meeting on June 27, 2024. After holding a second hearing on the draft charter, the City Council may vote to adopt a motion submitting the proposed charter to the City's voters. The City Council must wait 21 days after the second public hearing before adopting this motion. The deadline to submit the charter to the County for inclusion on the ballot for the November election is August 9, 2024. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Conduct the Public Hearing and take any public comment; 2. Discuss the Charter and provide direction on the City charter; and 3. Direct that the next Public Hearing be noticed for June 27, 2024. Mayor Ly read the following public comments received via email for the record. Barbara Murphy expressed concerns with being able to set salary adjustments under a charter city. She noted that the currently the salary for City Council is at $1,600 a month, plus benefits like medical benefits, deferred compensation, life insurance policy, cell phone and technology benefits, and milage reimbursement for personal auto use on city business. In addition, she was not in support of the term limits of five, four-year terms, for a total ability to serve 20 years. The current council members were elected in the following years: Mrs. Clark 1991; Mrs. Low -2007; Mrs. Armenta, and Mr. Ly 2009; Mr. Dang-2018. Lastly, she suggested having the charter measure on the November 2026 ballot for additional fee to the regular election cycle, and not the November 2024, where the only thing for Rosemead would be one measure costing $100,000. Nancy Eng raised concerns about the urgency of having a city charter on the November election ballot, the affordability of Rosemead becoming a charter city, and the need for voters to understand the reasons behind the proposal. Brian Lewin expressed concerns about the 20 -year term limits proposal, stating it as a loophole that benefits only the incumbent council members. However, highlighting the importance of term limits for citizen participation and expressing discomfort with granting additional power through charter city status. Sandra Trunis expressed support for a charter city. She stated she was a 30 -year resident and fell in love with the City. Listening to what is going on in terms of public safety, she agreed that going charter city may be the way. Mayor Pro Tem Clark reminded the City Council that in 2008 there was a proposed charter on the ballot, and it failed 2-1 with the proposed 12 -year term limit. She expressed concern with placing a measure on the November 2024 ballot that will cost $100,000 to the taxpayers and suggested waiting until 2026 when the City will hold its regular municipal election at an increase of $10,000 in cost to include a measure. She indicated she would rather see the cost of $90,000 of a special election towards resolving public safety issues. Another concern she expressed about the November election, is that this nation is so polarized that people are not going to think about Rosemead when placing their votes for the presidential candidates. Therefore, having Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 8 of 17 the measure at a regularly scheduled election would be a better idea, and added that she would not be running for reelection in 2026, resulting in an open seat and an election will happen. In addition, Mrs. Clark raised concerns about the issues of SB 9, where the state is trying to take away local zoning. The charter cities that protested SB 9, a judge ruled in their favor; however, if the Attorney General appeals that decision, there will be a fight over this, and questioned if it will come out in favor of charter cities or not. She inquired about having a city prosecutor and will there be more tools to prosecute a person or not? She requested more information on how becoming a charter city could provide leverage against state actions. She expressed the need for more information on how a charter city status could enhance prosecution capabilities, particularly in cases where existing limitations hinder legal actions. She noted that she was against the charter in the past because the Council could set their own salaries and not have to go out to bid for public works projects. She reiterated that it is better to have the measure at the next city's election cycle and not the November 2024 election, save the money and use that for better things. Mayor Ly acknowledged Mayor Pro Tem Clark's comment about not seeking reelection and commended her 35 years of service to the City of Rosemead. Furthermore, he explained that if there were only candidates for the same number of offices, then likely the election would be cancelled. City Clerk Hernandez confirmed that if there are no more candidates than offices running, then an election would be cancelled, and the candidates would be appointed to office. Mayor Ly reiterated his comments and stated that whether the city has a special election in November of 2024 by placing a measure for $100,000 or a regular election in 2026, it's not guaranteed that an election in 2026 could be cancelled, if there are no more candidates than offices. But if the council decided to have a measure in 2026, that would cost the city in additional $10,000, whether there are candidates running or not. Mr. Ly noted that the reason to look into a proposed charter for this upcoming November election, is to be able to act now on public safety matters as heard in the public comments from the residents, control of zoning matters, have the authority of home rule to decide things for the City. He emphasized that the charter subcommittee made sure there are provisions in the charter that made sense to protect Rosemead. For example, Council cannot set their own salary. The draft charter states that salaries have to match what the state has. On the matter of the term limits, he acknowledged that term limits can work if desired by the people, while allowing council members to build seniority for effective relationships. He expressed urgency in transitioning to a charter city due to worsening conditions and the need to protect the community from potential external influences. He reiterated the potential benefits of becoming a charter city, including local control, protection from state regulations like SB 9, and the ability to adopt policies to current circumstances. Council Member Armenta agreed with Mayor Ly and added that during the subcommittee meetings they looked through each section of the charter to ensure Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 1024 Page 9 of 17 provisions are placed to protect the city. She explained there are sections in the charter that specifically state that the city will follow state law and procedures. She also noted that you cannot compare a city up north or down south with the City of Rosemead. She emphasized that as a member of the legislative committee in the CA Contract Cities Association, there are proposed bills that will impact local control. She noted that many general law cities will be looking into going charter city because of the ability to have and keep control. Council Member Low expressed support for the City to have a charter because of the local control. She noted that state level mandates have become more restrictive. Commended the subcommittee in drafting the proposed charter and addressing any concerns. Furthermore, agreed with the term limits being in the draft charter, however, she was amenable to decreasing the term limit if the City Council would propose it. Mayor Ly inquired with City Attorney Richman if changes could be made to the draft charter during the public hearings. City Attorney Richman responded the City Council could make changes to the draft charter and would not affect the public hearing process. Mayor Pro Tem Clark asked City staff to bring back more information on what other charter cities have done on the matter of prosecution. In addition, what have other charter cities not been required to do because they are a charter city that general law cities have to do ACTION: Moved by Mayor Ly, seconded by Council Member Low to direct city staff to move forward with scheduling the second public hearing for Thursday, June 27, 2024, and bring back addition information pertaining to charter city authority and prosecution abilities. Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Low, and Ly; NOE: None; ABSENT: Dang Mayor Pro Tem Clark asked the record to show that she voted for the notice of the public hearing to proceed and for the additional information to bring back, not the proposed draft charter. 5. CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Ly clarified for the record that Item A, had a typographical error in the Claims and Demands Resolution No. 2024-23 and should be Resolution No. 2024-25. ACTION: Move by Council Member Low and seconded by Council Member Armenta to approve Consent Calendar items A, B, C and D. Motion was carried by the following vote: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Low, and Ly; NOES: None; ABSENT: Dang A. Claims and Demands • Resolution No. 2934-93 2024-25 Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 10 of 17 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $584,187.10 CHECKS NUMBERED 116636 THROUGH NUMBER 116748, DRAFTS NUMBERED 7239 THROUGH NUMBER 7275 AND EFT NUMBERED 52400 THROUGH NUMBER 52432 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2024-25. B. Consideration to Cancel the June 25, 2024, City Council Meeting and Schedule a Special Meeting on June 27, 2024 The City Council will consider cancelling the regular meeting on June 25, 2024, and schedule a special meeting on June 27, 2024. A special meeting is being requested to hold the required second public hearing relating to the proposed City charter. All items originally scheduled for the regular meeting will be presented at the special meeting on June 27. In addition, City staff is coordinating the Mayor's State of the City for June 25, 2024. Recommendation: That the City Council cancel the meeting of June 25, 2024 and schedule a special meeting for June 27, 2024. C. Adopt Resolution No. 2024-23, Approving SB 1 Project List for FY 2024-25 Under the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB 1 Beall) On April 28, 2017, the Governor signed Senate Bill (SB) 1 (Beal, Chapter 5, Statute 2017), also known as the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 to address basic road maintenance, rehabilitation, and critical safety needs on both the state highway and local streets and road system. Beginning November 1, 2017, the State Controller will deposit various portions of this new funding into the newly created Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA). A percentage of this new RMRA funding will be apportioned by formula to eligible cities and counties pursuant to Streets and Highways Code (SHC) Section 2032 (h) for basic road maintenance, rehabilitation, and critical safety projects on the local streets and road systems. Prior to receiving an allotment of RMRA funds from the State Controller each fiscal year, the City must submit a proposed project list to be funded with the estimated revenue allocations to the California Transportation Commission. The project list shall be pursuant to an adopted resolution. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Adopt Resolution No. 2024-23, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 FUNDED BY SB 1: THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017 Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page H of 17 2. Find that the Project is exempt from CEQA review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. D. Selection of Contractor for Property Management Services of Angelus and Garvey Senior Apartments The Rosemead Housing Development Corporation operates two senior housing complexes, Angelus and Garvey Senior Housing. Angelus Senior Housing, located at 2417 Angelus Avenue, was built in 1994 and is comprised of 51 apartment units. Garvey Senior Housing, located at 9118 Garvey Avenue, was built in 2002 and is comprised of 72 apartment units. Both senior housing complexes are currently managed by Levine Management Group, Inc. The current Professional Services Agreement with Levine Management Group, Inc. is set to expire on June 30, 2024. For this reason, on March 28, 2024, the City released a Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 2024-12, seeking property management services for the two senior housing complexes. Recommendation: That the City Council, sitting as the Rosemead Housing Development Corporation Board of Directors, authorize the City Manager to execute an Agreement with National CORE to provide property management services for the two senior housing complexes (Angelus Senior Housing and Garvey Senior Housing) at a cost of $70.00 per unit each month. The terms of the agreement shall be for three (3) years with two (2) one-year extensions at the sole and absolute discretion of the City beginning on July 1, 2024. 6. MATTERS FROM CITY MANAGER & STAFF A. Approval of Second Amendment to City Manager Employment Agreement and Adoption of Salary Schedule Resolution No. 2024-24 The City and the City Manager entered into an Employment Agreement ("Agreement") on April 26, 2022. Section 6 of the Agreement permits the City Council to conduct performance evaluations and grant increases in salary. Pursuant to Section 6 (c) of the Agreement, the City Council conducted the City Manager's performance evaluation. The City Manager received a "substantially exceeds expectations" review with a 5 rating. The City Council directed that an agreement be provided to the Council for consideration of approval for a 9% salary increase effective May 14, 2024 to the amount of $249,504.00 and a 3% COLA salary increase with all other City Employees on July 1, 2024 to an amount of $256,992.00. In addition, the Second Amendment would provide an increase to the City Manager's severance from 6 months to 12 months and change the vacation accrual cap from 320 to 400. Last, the contract would reflect the Rosemead Municipal Code language that provides the City Manager contract will be for an indeterminate term, but the City Manager remains an at -will employee of the City Council. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 12 of 17 As required by Government Code 54953 prior to final action on the City Manager's salary or compensation and benefits there must be an oral report of the change. The City Attorney will orally report the changes as required. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Authorize the Mayor to execute the Second Amendment to City Manager Agreement with Ben Kim on behalf of the City Council. 2. Adopt Resolution No. 2024-24, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE SALARY SCHEDULE TO MEET THE CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS TITLE 2, SECTION 570.5 AND 571 TO REFLECT APPROVED RATES FROM MAY 28, 2024 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2025 City Attorney Richman announced that the City Council conducted the City Manager's performance evaluation and gave a "substantially exceeds expectations" review with a 5 rating. In addition, the contract amendment to the city manager's contract includes a 9% salary increase, 3% COLA increase, changes to severance terms of 12 months, vacation accrual cap up to 400 hours and undetermined term on the contract. ACTION: Moved by Council Member Armenta, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Clark to approve the second amendment to the City Managers employment contract and adopt Resolution No. 2024-24. Motion was carried out by the following vote: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Low, and Ly; NOES: None; ABSENT: Dang 7. MATTERS FROM MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL A. Discussion of Compensation for Commissioners and for other Appointed Members of Committees or Subcommittees for Committee and Subcommittee Meeting Attendance During a Council meeting in January 2024, Mayor Ly made a request for an item to be brought to the Council for discussion regarding Commissioner compensation for attending special meetings and/or attending Committee or Subcommittee meetings. Recommendation: That the City Council discuss and provide direction on the following options: 1. Direct staff to maintain the existing practices, which is not compensating members of a Committee or Subcommittee; or 2. Direct staff to prepare resolutions for Council consideration at an upcoming meeting relating to Committees and/or Subcommittees, appointing members of Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2014 Page 13 of 17 Committees and Subcommittees, as well as setting compensation for members (individuals who are not Council members) of a Committee or Subcommittee and other relates action as Council set appropriate. Mayor Ly raised concerns about compensating commissioners and committee members adequately for their time and dedication when also serving in a subcommittee. He noted that residents that serve in a City commission are compensated only $100 per meeting. Council Member Armenta agreed with Mayor Ly and reiterated that many of the commissioners do have jobs and make every effort to attend meetings after work. In addition, when a subcommittee is created, sometimes a commissioner is asked to sit on that subcommittee with no additional compensation. Council Member Low expressed concern with additional compensation because that could attract people that just do it for the compensation and not the civic service. Hopes that there will be people that want to be part of a commission or committee because they care and want to volunteer their time. Mayor Pro Tem Clark agreed with Council Member Low and emphasized that additional compensation could bring people that only care about the compensation. Mayor Ly stated that he understood their concerns, however after joining the army, changed his perspective in this regard. He explained that in the army there is a saying, "God and Country" meaning you are asked to do something greater than yourselves. In regard to commissioners, they are being asked to do something that does take away time, which time is the only thing you can never get back. The City Council gets paid for their work, whether there is a meeting or not. When commissioners are tasks to serve on a subcommittee, they should also get paid for their work and commitment. Council Member Armenta stated that prior to the stipend increase in 2023, the argument of why the state increased the compensation was to allow more citizens the ability to run for office. In addition, the City Council appoints residents that want to serve the city and not just collect a paycheck. Council Member Low asked if currently the commissioners are being asked or volunteer on their own to serve on a subcommittee. Mayor Ly replied that the City Council has done both types of appointments, where they ask a specific commissioner to serve or a subcommittee or open it to commissioners wishing to participate on a subcommittee. Council Member Armenta provided an example when the City Council established the Homelessness Subcommittee and resident Eilers was invited to serve on the subcommittee because of her extensive expertise on homelessness and her dedication, she was not compensated for her attendance to the meetings. In addition, commissioners get compensated for meetings attended. When there is no quorum, and they do not meet, the commissioners do not get paid. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 14 of 17 Mayor Pro Tem Clark stated that getting compensated to be on a Commission was fine but asked for clarification about compensating non-members such as a member of the community for being part of a subcommittee. Mayor Ly asked what is the current resolution that governs commissioner pay? Finance Director Chua replied that the commissioners received $100 for each regular meeting or special joint meeting with the City Council they attend. Mayor Ly asked Mr. Chua to share the resolution with the City Council for reference. Mayor Pro Tem Clark asked if a new committee is formed, and a member of public is appointed, will they get compensation on that committee? Mayor Ly replied historically if you are a commissioner, you get a stipend. If the Council wishes to change that rule, for example, paying the Youth Committee. However, since they are minors there are other provisions that would need to be looked at. City Attorney Richman advised that at the moment, the staff report did not recommend that the Youth Committee be part of the recommendation to pay committee members. She reiterated that staff recommends paying non - commissioners on committees to ensure fairness as well. ACTION: Moved by Mayor Ly, seconded by Council Member Armenta to direct City staff to bring back a resolution that compensates Commissioners and Committee Members, which serve on committee or special meeting, excluding the youth committee. Motion was carried out by the following vote: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Low and Ly; NOES: None; ABSENT: Dang B. Professional Training — 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Survey and Pricing Options — council expressed support and allowed the City Manager to determine how to implement the program. At the January 23, 2024 City Council meeting, Mayor Ly requested for an agenda item to discuss professional training program and noted, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People", a book written by Mr. Stephen Covey. In order to gauge staff interest a survey of all full-time and part-time staff was conducted. The survey was sent out a total of 3 times. Out of a total of 250 staff surveyed (64 full-time and 186 part-time), 50 (20% of the total) completed the survey with 41 being interested in taking the training and 9 not interested. Out of those 41 interested, 27 are full-time staff members and 14 are part-time staff members. Out of the 9 staff members that are not interested in taking part in the training, 5 are full-time staff members and 4 are part-time staff members. Out of the total number of surveys completed, 78% of staff are interested in attending and 22% are not interested. Recommendation: That the City Council discuss and provide staff direction. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 15 of 17 Director of Finance Chua reported that a survey was sent to City staff that would like to take a training based on the book of 7 habits of Highly effective People. Out of the total number of surveys completed, 78% of staff are interested in attending and 22% are not interested. Mayor Ly stated that he felt it was important to support the staff's ongoing development and trainings as part of the Strategic Plan. He suggested doing the Foundation Training option, in which a trainer comes to the City. Council Member Low inquired why is the Council proposing training, when it should be up to the City Manager to delegate. She emphasized being supportive to get training and not mandate training by the City Council. City Manager Kim stated that the Human Resources Division has been working on putting together training that is optional for City staff. There are mandated training courses, which are usually taken by all city staff at some point. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People will be optional for staff to take. Mayor Ly reiterated that he supported the program for City staff and was worth the investment. Council Member Armenta stated that there are two elementary schools in the Rosemead School District that teach the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and are designated as a Lighthouse school and a Leader in Me designated school. City Manager Kim stated that a survey was sent and not everybody signed up for the training. However, when staff inquires about training, Human Resources looks into it and if we have the cost for an opportunity for staff, trainings are coordinated. Council Member Low stated that City staff has done the cost analysis and that the Council is supportive of the training if the City Manager would like to offer it to City staff. Mayor Ly stated it was up to the City Manager to offer the program to the City staff. C. Council Comments Council Member Armenta reported she attended the CA Contract Cities Association Municipal Seminar and had a great session like topics on AI. Commended Director of Parks and Recreation of the Memorial event. Asked City Manager about asking LA County Public Works to repair a road section on Walnut Grove, passing Broadway onto Los Tunas Drive because residents' cars are being damaged due to the damaged road. Director of Public Works Wang stated that staff is in communication with the County Public Works Department about repairing the road. Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 16 of 17 Mayor Ly reported that he also attended the CA Contract Cities Association conference and attended sessions on Leadership, Al, etc. He also reported that he attended ICSC in Las Vegas and thanked Planning staff for the work they put in at the ICSC conference. He reiterated that one of the things that builders and developers were very excited by is the fact that there is a Garvey Avenue Specific Plan and there's also a freeway corridor overlay that allows for a much easier and smoother process on development. 8. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Ly adjourned the meeting at 10:15 p.m. The next regular City Council meeting will take place on June 11, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Rosemead City Hall Coupci Chazi-,ber. F _ Ericka He dez, Approved: _1 �- Steven ty, Mayor Rosemead City Council and Housing Development Corporation Special & Regular Joint Meeting Minutes of May 28, 2024 Page 17 of 17