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CC - Item 4B - Mintes of September 24, 2024MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 The regular meeting of the Rosemead City Council was called to order by Mayor Ly at 7:07 p.m., in the Rosemead City Council Chamber located at 8838 East Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, California. PRESENT: Mayor Ly, Mayor Pro Tem Clark, Council Members Armenta and Low ABSENT: Council Member Dang STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Kim, City Attorney Development Wong, Director of Finance Chua, Director of Public Works Wang, and City Clerk Hernandez PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by Council MQrr:bar' Low INVOCATION led by Mayor Ly 1. PUBLIC COMMENT - N 2. PRESENTATIONS A. Proclamatiox%�e Hispanaeriagxh Mayor Ly announc National Hispanic E ` Ito�etnead Latch An wParks `mod Recreat " in th&..Ci Interim Director of Community d Recreation Boecking, Director 15, 2024, as "National of September 15 through October 15 as City of Rosemead. Club members from the nerican Club, Club Latino Unidos, and the acknowledged and invited to receive the Council Mem6 Arment&, ressed appreciation for the three Latin senior clubs, n6,dhg their repr"Sentation 'of seniors in the City of Rosemead and surrounding comities. Thy Qlubs were recognized for providing opportunities for social engag&io, cu�*41 activities, and fellowship, ensuring the senior population remains included. Appreciation was also expressed for staff support in maintaining. rams that celebrate diversity and enhance quality of life for seniors. p: g tY q tY Director of Parks and Recreation Boecking reported that the three active senior clubs regularly meet at the Garvey Center and participate in monthly activities. The clubs were recognized for their involvement in ongoing programs and special events, including the annual Sweetheart Jamboree. Appreciation was expressed for the positive impact and community engagement the clubs bring to the facility. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 AGENDA ITEM 4.11 Page 1 of 14 B. Presentation by the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments on Programs, Accomplishments, and Goals for the Coming Year Turner Lott, Senior Management Analyst with the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG), provided an overview of the agency's mission, leadership, programs, and regional accomplishments, and thanked the City of Rosemead for its partnership. Information was presented on SGVCOG leadership and the organization's role in administering regional programs related to transportation, sustainability, housing, homelessness, and community services. Highlights included wildfire preparedness initiatives, energy efficiency education, transportation improvement projects, and Measure M subregional program funding opportunities. Mr. Lott reported on housing and homelessness efforts, including interim housing sites, supportive services, permanent affordable housing development, and community engagement programs. Recent regional accomplishments and specific benefits to the City of Rosemead were outlined, including Measure M funding for the Mission Drive pedestrian hybrid beacon project, participation in wildlife management and food recovery programs, and business outreach related to food recovery mandates. An update was provided on the City's participation in the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust and ongoing efforts to expand affordable housing. Council Member Armenta expressed appreciation for the acknowledgment of Senator Susan Rubio work with the SGVCOG and recognized her contributions and leadership. Mayor Pro Tem Clark expressed pride in the City's participation in the Regional Housing Trust and thanked SGVCOG staff for their work and support. Appreciation was also expressed for the food recovery program, which helps reduce food waste by redirecting edible food for community benefit. Council Member Low thanked the SGVCOG for all the hard work that the team does for the San Gabriel Valley. Mayor Ly acknowledged SGVCOG's overall effectiveness and leadership continuity, noting the value of experienced executive management. He expressed appreciation for the organization's accomplishments and staff capacity. He expressed concerns regarding the perceived emphasis of SGVCOG transportation initiatives on the East San Gabriel Valley and Foothill cities, with limited advancement of major infrastructure and transit projects in the West San Gabriel Valley. Council emphasized the need for equitable consideration of transportation investments, including bus rapid transit and regional transit infrastructure, to address the needs of the West San Gabriel Valley, which represents a significant portion of the region's population and density. Mr. Ly reiterated support for SGVCOG's mission and efforts, while emphasizing the importance of balanced regional advocacy. Appreciation was expressed for staff efforts and continued collaboration on behalf of the City of Rosemead. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 2 of 14 Mayor Pro Tem Clark noted that the grade separation project on Baldwin Avenue has been beneficial and has had a positive impact. Mayor Ly expressed support for ongoing regional transportation projects, including ACE, the 57/60 confluence, and the Foothill extension, while noting that additional grade separations and infrastructure improvements, such as those on Walnut Grove, SR-60 alignment, the 710 completion, and other underpasses, would also benefit the city. He emphasized the importance of equitable distribution of regional transportation investments. 3. PUBLIC HEARING CEQA:The following item is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act, unless noted on the item. A. Public Hearing to Review and Approve the Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-24 The City of Rosemead's Community Development Department has completed its Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the period July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. The CAPER describes the overall use of federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) funds received from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in relationship to the needs of the community as outlined in its Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-24, Annual Action Plan. The City's overall objective in the CDBG and HOME programs is the development of viable communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expansion of economic opportunities primarily for low -to -moderate income persons. Recommendation: That the City Council take the following actions: 1. Conduct a public hearing to receive community feedback on the FY 2023-24 CAPER; and 2. Approve its submission to the HUD. Housing Management Analyst Garcia reported that the Housing Division prepared the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report, which summarizes the City's use of Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership funds. The report highlights and accomplishments in alignment with the City's five-year consolidated plan. During the fiscal year, approximately $1.5 million in CDBG funds were spent, exceeding the HUD timely expenditure requirement of $750,000. Funding assisted over 2,500 residents, 30 businesses, and 10 homes in Rosemead. Mayor Ly opened the public hearing. There being no comments, he closed the public hearing. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 3 of 14 ACTION: Motion by Council Member Armenta, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Clark to approve the Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and submit to HUD. Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Low and Ly, NOES: None, ABSENT: Dang 4. CONSENT CALENDAR ACTION — Motion made by Council Member Low, seconded by Council Member Armenta to approve the Consent Calendar Items A — F. Motion was carried out by the following votes: AYES: Armenta, Clark, Low and Ly, NOES: None, ABSENT: Dang A. Claims and Demands • Resolution No. 2024-50 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE SUM OF $2,727,046.24 CHECKS NUMBERED 117595 THROUGH NUMBER 117699, DRAFTS NUMBERED 7459 THROUGH NUMBER 7476 AND EFT NUMBERED 52701 THROUGH NUMBER 52724 INCLUSIVELY Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2024-50. B. Minutes Recommendation: That the City Council approve the regular meeting minutes of October 25, 2022. C. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 1022, an Amendment to the City of Rosemead's Floodplain Management Section of the Municipal Code Section 13.17.040 On September 10, 2024, the City Council approved for first reading Ordinance No. 1022, to update the City's Floodplain Management Section of the Municipal Code, amending Municipal Code Section 13.17.040 to include substantial improvement and substantial damage determinations and department records provisions. Recommendation: That the City Council approve the second reading, by title only, and adopt Ordinance No. 1022, entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 13.17.040, RELATING TO SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT AND SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE WITHIN THE FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT CODE Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 4 of 14 D. Adopt Resolution No. 2024-51 to Authorize the Execution of the Safe, Clean Water Program Municipal Transfer Agreement No. 2024MP66 In November 2018, Los Angeles County voters passed Measure W, a special parcel tax of 2.5 cents per square foot of impermeable area to fund local water quality projects and programs. Measure W created the Safe, Clean Water (SCW) Program which aims to provide local, dedicated funding for stormwater and urban runoff programs and projects that intend to increase the local water supply, improve water quality, and protect public health. Forty percent (40%) of the parcel tax revenues are allocated to the Municipal Program. Under the Municipal Program, cities receive direct funding that is proportional to the revenues that are generated within its boundaries. Pursuant to Los Angeles County Flood Control District Code Section 16.05.A.1. prior to the receipt of SCW Program funds, municipalities must enter into an agreement with the Los Angeles County Flood Control District (District) to transfer funds. A Transfer Agreement between the District and the City of Rosemead was approved by the City Council on August 25, 2020, and expired at the end of Fiscal Year 2023-24. It is recommended that the City Council authorize the execution of a new Agreement to ensure continued receipt of SCW Program funds. Recommendation: That the City Council approve and adopt Resolution No. 2024-51, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE LOS ANGELES REGION SAFE, CLEAN WATER PROGRAM, MUNICIPAL TRANSFER AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT E. Selection of Professional Consulting Services for a Permit and Land Use Management System To improve the City's development process and to be more efficient, standardized, mobile, and transparent, the City sought an online permit and land use management system to streamline the building permit process for both the development community and for the City. A competitive bid process was conducted and six (6) qualified proposals were received. Through an analysis of the proposal, a firm has been selected for recommendation to the City Council. Recommendation: Staff is recommending that the City Council authorize the City Manager to finalize and execute a Professional Services Agreement to enter into a three-year agreement with OpenGov, Inc. (including an optional one-year extension) for professional consulting services for a permit and land use management system. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September24, 2024 Page 5 of 14 F. Approve Fourth Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Transtech Engineers, Inc. On March 26, 2024, the City Council approved the Third Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Transtech Engineers to increase compensation for FY 2023-24 by $138,320 for a total of $569,320 and to extend the contract for an additional one-year term to expire on June 30, 2025. The scope of services provided by Transtech includes city engineering, traffic engineering, and public works inspection services. Due to unforeseen soil conditions during a Residential Street Resurfacing project and an increase in requests for traffic review by the City, there were expenditures over the authorized fiscal year for 2023-2024 for the contract in the amount of $56,213.50. Staff requests to increase the contract authority from $569,320 to $625,533.50 as it relates to the services during FY 23-24 (an additional $56,213.50) for the unforeseen additional work and increased level of services rendered to address traffic safety related concerns that the City requested. Recommendation: That the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the Fourth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Transtech Engineers, Inc., to increase the FY 23-24 compensation amount from $569,320 to $625,533.50 (an additional $56,213.50). 5. MATTERS FROM CITY MANAGER & STAFF - None 6. MATTERS FROM MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL A. Discussion of Preferential Parking Districts At the June 27, 2024 City Council special meeting, Council Member Armenta requested additional information for a discussion on parking districts in the City of Rosemead. Recommendation: That the City Council direct staff as necessary to further evaluate and/or develop a preferential parking program in the City of Rosemead. City Manager Kim spoke about the potential advantages and disadvantages of implementing a residential parking permit program. He stated that a primary benefit of the program would be its ability to address parking issues in specific areas by providing residents of those neighborhoods with greater access to on -street parking. Mr. Kim noted that a potential disadvantage would be the need to establish parameters governing the number of permits issued. He emphasized that permits could not be issued in unlimited quantities, as demand in certain areas may exceed available on -street parking. Depending on the eligibility criteria established, not all residents may receive the number of permits they desire, despite residency or tax payments. He explained that the program would apply exclusively to on -street parking and would not affect residents' or property owners' ability to park on their own property. Mr. Kim further stated that the details of the program would require additional discussion should the Council wish to move forward. Staff would conduct further research and provide recommendations regarding the appropriate number of permits to be issued. Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 6 of 14 As an example, he talked about the City of Los Angeles parking permit program. He explained that the program could include three types of permits: 1. A resident permit valid for one year; 2. A long-term guest permit valid for a specified number of months (noting that the City of Los Angeles issues such permits for four months); and 3. A short-term, one -day permit for temporary needs, such as special events or gatherings. Council Member Armenta stated that the Council could establish parameters limiting the permit program to overnight parking only, rather than all -day parking. She noted that this determination would be within the Council's discretion. She further emphasized the importance of establishing residency requirements, specifying that permit eligibility could be limited to residents of the City of Rosemead or those residing within the affected district. She raised concerns regarding protecting Rosemead residents from non-residents of neighboring cities who may park on local streets and stated that eligibility criteria should be structured to prioritize and safeguard city residents. Council Member Low inquired whether the parking issues currently experienced by residents in the affected area occur primarily during nighttime hours. She asked whether the residents' concerns were specifically related to overnight parking, rather than all -day parking restrictions. Council Member Armenta stated that, based on her discussions with residents, the parking issues in the area stem from an apartment complex located across the railroad tracks, where insufficient parking is available on the City of San Gabriel side. As a result, residents from that area cross over and park on streets within the City of Rosemead. She noted that this is the same area previously discussed by residents during earlier public comments regarding Ivar Avenue. She expressed general hesitation regarding the implementation of parking permit programs, noting that such a program would not be effective on her own street due to minimal on -street parking demand. She further stated that in other areas, particularly in the southern portion of Rosemead, limited garage and driveway space necessitates on -street parking for residents, making a permit program less feasible in those neighborhoods. Mrs. Armenta stated that the need for a parking permit program should be evaluated based on a petition process and emphasized that implementation would require a collaborative effort among residents within the affected district. Council Member Low stated that it would be necessary to clearly define what constitutes a "district" for purposes of a parking permit program. She noted that a district could vary in size and scope, potentially including a single street, multiple streets, or a limited number of residences along a street. Council Member Armenta stated that the item was presented for consideration and purposes for discussion. She requested that the matter be placed on record and included on the agenda to allow for an open discussion and to receive input from residents. She emphasized that hearing from residents is essential to the Council's decision -making process and enables the Council to make informed and balanced Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 7 of 14 decisions that serve not only specific neighborhoods, but the City of Rosemead as a whole. Mayor Pro Tem Clark stated that the parking issues experienced by residents occur primarily overnight, noting that residents are unable to find available parking during nighttime hours due to non-residents parking in the area. She inquired whether the same parking problems occur during daytime hours. Council Member Armenta stated that residents did not express concerns regarding daytime parking and that their comments and concerns were specifically focused on overnight parking issues. Mayor Pro Tem Clark inquired whether a parking district could be structured to address overnight parking needs only, while not imposing restrictions during daytime hours, should residents choose to proceed in that manner. Council Member Armenta confirmed that such an arrangement would be feasible, explaining that parking permits would be enforced only during the designated restricted time periods. She stated that, for example, a non-resident vehicle parked during daytime hours would be permitted; however, once the permit enforcement period begins, the vehicle would no longer be allowed to park in the area without a valid permit. Mayor Ly provided comments on the proposed residential parking permit program. He began by acknowledging Council Member Armenta for her advocacy on behalf of the community and residents, noting that her efforts are greatly appreciated. He stated that he has no fundamental objections to the concept of a parking permit system. However, from a public policy perspective, he expressed concerns regarding the use of public streets for restricted private access. He emphasized that any impact on the street, including wear and tear, potential accidents, and related liability, should be considered in calculating permit costs. He noted that covering only staff costs would be insufficient. Streets used regularly by permit holders will experience wear and tear, and if access is limited to permit holders, the associated costs should be allocated to those users rather than the general taxpayer. He reiterated that he supported the permit program in principle, provided that the costs reflect the actual impact of permit use on public infrastructure. Council Member Low noted that under current conditions, all vehicles parked on a street including those belonging to non-residents contribute equally to wear and tear on the roadway, regardless of whether the owners live on that street. Mayor Ly noted that under current conditions, any resident or visitor may park on a public street, and the associated costs are covered by general taxpayer funds. He explained that if a permit program restricts parking to only residents of a specific street or district, non-residents would no longer have access. In such cases, he stated that those who lose access should not bear the additional costs associated with maintaining the street under the permit program. He emphasized that permit fees should reflect actual use and benefit, rather than imposing costs on taxpayers who no longer receive access. He emphasized that if Rosemead were to implement a permit Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 8 of 14 system that restricts parking exclusively to Rosemead residents or businesses, the cost of street maintenance and wear and tear should be incorporated into permit fees. He stated that without accounting for these costs, taxpayers would effectively subsidize private parking access, which he considers inequitable. He referenced the City of Los Angeles as an example where distributed costs and insufficient funding have contributed to poorly maintained streets. He concluded that while he supports the concept of a permit program, it is essential that permit fees accurately reflect the actual costs associated with maintaining affected streets to ensure fair and sustainable management. Council Member Low stated that while a policy could be established to allow overnight parking, the application fees for the permit should include costs associated with street maintenance and wear and tear. She noted that incorporating these costs would result in higher permit fees for residents. Mayor Ly noted that implementation of a residential parking permit program is feasible, as similar programs exist in other cities. He emphasized that the item is currently for discussion only and no action or vote is being taken at this meeting. He suggested that, if the Council wishes to proceed, the appropriate next step would be to establish a committee at a future meeting. The committee could include Council members, the Traffic Commission, and relevant staff to evaluate key issues such as cost recovery, permit eligibility, and potential impacts on commercial and overflow parking in the affected area. He concluded that these matters are solvable but require further study and community engagement before implementation. Mayor Pro Tem Clark acknowledged the concern regarding cost and inquired how many residents have raised this issue. She asked whether the San Gabriel cross - jurisdictional parking problem is limited to a single concern and whether any communication has been initiated with the appropriate departments in San Gabriel to address vehicles spilling over into Rosemead streets. City Manager Kim stated we would not be able to do that since there is public parking, anybody could park there. Mayor Pro Tern Clark noted a potential concern in situations where residents host gatherings and are uncertain in advance about the number of attendees, which may result in an insufficient number of permits for guests. She indicated some hesitancy regarding the program based on this issue. Council Member Armenta emphasized the importance of public input in the decision - making process. She noted that the item was brought forward to hear perspectives from residents and suggested that outreach and public meetings could help gauge broader community feedback. She acknowledged that a group of residents had expressed a need for assistance with parking, but stated that the ultimate decision rests with the Council. She described the discussion as a matter for consideration and reflection. Mayor Ly suggested that the topic be continued to a future meeting to allow for input from Council Member Dang. He recommended that if the Council decides to proceed, Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 9 of 14 a committee should be established to conduct further outreach, gather community feedback, and evaluate the program. The committee would be responsible for assessing whether the permit program is appropriate and, if so, determining its structure and implementation details. Council Member Low stated that she is open to further exploring the residential parking permit program. She acknowledged the need for such a program but expressed concerns regarding potential expansion, noting that if it is implemented in one area, other areas particularly near commercial zones, may also request similar restrictions to limit non-resident parking. She further noted a concern regarding enforcement, specifically that permit holders may fail to properly display their permits, which could result in citations despite compliance with the program. Council Member Armenta emphasized that the program is not a single solution and could have broader implications affecting other areas. She expressed appreciation for the collaborative discussion among Council Members and stated that the ultimate decision should reflect what is collectively best for the City of Rosemead and its residents. Council Member Low highlighted the importance of considering long-term effects and potential unintended consequences when evaluating policy changes, rather than focusing solely on immediate or isolated problems. Mayor Ly recommended tabling the item until the full Council is present to allow for input from all members, including Council Member Dang. He further noted that when the item is brought back for future discussion, the Council could consider appointing a committee to conduct additional research, evaluate options, and potentially develop a formal policy regarding the residential parking permit program. B. Administrative Policy No. 10-15 (Boulevard Banner Policy) At the September 10, 2024 City Council meeting, El Monte Union High School District Trustee Mr. Qui Nguyen and Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga spoke during the Public Comment period requesting the City's support for City installation of Rosemead High School graduating class banner installation on street light poles. Mayor Ly requested an agenda item for discussion. Recommendation: That the City Council discuss and provide staff direction. Mayor Ly spoke about Admin Policy 10-15, the Banner Policy Program, noting prior request from a school board member regarding recognition of high school student achievements. He requested staff to provide an overview of the current administrative policy and guidance on potential amendments to accommodate additional recognition. City Manager Kim explained that the current Banner Policy, established in 2010, contains restrictions limiting banners to two at a time and a maximum display period of 30 days. A recent request from the school district seeks to display up to 80 banners Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 10 of 14 for an entire year. Staff advised that Council direction is needed to proceed with any amendments or exceptions to the existing policy. Mayor Ly asked whether amendments to the Banner Policy could be considered based on staff s assessment and deliberation, without immediately revising the written policy. City Manager Kim stated that, yes, changes can be made by staff. Council Member Armenta expressed support for continuing and expanding the Banner Program, noting the importance of recognizing Rosemead High School students' achievements, particularly in light of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlighted that neighboring cities in the El Monte Union High School District display banners to honor students and emphasized that Rosemead should similarly celebrate and acknowledge student accomplishments. Council Member Polly expressed support for recognizing student achievements but raised concerns regarding equity. She noted that allowing Rosemead High School to display banners year-round could set a precedent requiring similar accommodation for other schools and organizations, including elementary schools. She suggested exploring alternative ways to celebrate graduates, such as events at the Civic Center, while maintaining fairness and consistency with the existing policy, which currently allows organizations to hang up to two banners for 30 days. Mayor Ly suggested that if banner recognition is allowed for Rosemead High School, it should also be extended to other schools that serve Rosemead students. He noted that similar banner programs exist in other San Gabriel Valley cities to celebrate student achievements and college plans. Mayor Ly emphasized that supporting the program aligns with community values and provides positive recognition for local students. City Manager Kim clariid that the City does not pay for the banners, only the installation and maintenance. Mayor Ly noted that while City staff install the banners, the cost of production is covered by the school district or through fundraising, not the City. He suggested that the policy could be amended to reflect this and recommended directing staff to draft language to accommodate the program as a recognition of Rosemead graduates. Council Member Armenta noted that banners are distinct from flags and emphasized that the City's policy could specify eligibility, including limiting banner displays to educational purposes, certain school districts, or specific age groups. She stated that it is within the Council's authority to determine appropriate parameters for the program. Mayor Ly emphasized that high school graduation is a significant milestone and supported recognizing students through banners. He compared the program to the City's military banner program, noting that both honor achievements and Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 11 of 14 contributions. Mayor Ly stated that displaying student banners fosters community pride and visibility for local youth accomplishments. Mayor Pro Tern Clark asked if there were any other cost associated with the maintenance of banners. City Manager Kim replied the associated cost are with the installation and potential maintenance of banners, including replacement if banners when they become damaged or worn. Mayor Clark stated that the school district should at pay for the banner so it's not a gift of public funds. City Manager Kim reiterated that banners are currently installed by City personnel to ensure proper placement and secure fastening, reducing the risk of damage during high winds or other conditions. Mayor Clark asked if the school district has always asked for a full year of having that banner. City Manager Kim replied, yes since the banner program started in 2020 it's been up there for a full year and replaced on an annual basis. Mayor Ly noted that, in his observation, the City's military banners are in poorer condition compared to the high school banners, which are generally well -maintained. He expressed concern about the state of the military banners and acknowledged that this concern has been previously communicated to City staff. Council Member Low asked if there were enough polls for all the requested banners. Mayor Ly replied yes, there are plenty of poles around the city. He explained that he walked with Mr. Kim, the whole corridor where the military banners are at, there's still plenty of room. Council Member Armenta reminded the Council that the Banner Program has been in place for the past four years and that the current request is to continue the program. She noted that many questions regarding the program could be observed directly by viewing existing banners along Valley Boulevard. Council Member Low stated that she understands the Banner Program was initially implemented in response to COVID-19, when students were unable to hold traditional graduations. While supportive of the program during that period, she questioned the continuation of the program now that the COVID-19 restrictions have ended. Council Member Ly stated that the banners improve the visual appearance of Valley Boulevard, which otherwise appears bare, and noted that there is sufficient space to accommodate the program without impacting existing programs. He further stated Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 12 of 14 that the program has been ongoing without negative effects and that capacity exists to extend similar recognition to other schools if desired. Council Member Low stated that it's only fair to allow other schools to participate. Furthermore, asked what if other organizations inquired about placing banners. Council Member Armenta stated that is where you limit based in the policy. Mayor Ly emphasized that the Banner Program is specifically intended to honor Rosemead students and is distinct from other special events, which are addressed under separate policy provisions. He noted that future requests from other groups could be considered on a case -by -case basis, citing veterans and student banners as examples of programs previously deemed appropriate by the Council. Council Member Armenta expressed difficulty understanding why neighboring cities such as El Monte and South El Monte are able to display student banners while Rosemead has faced restrictions. She noted that many Rosemead residents attend San Gabriel High School and agreed that the program should be extended to all schools serving the City's students. City Attorney Richman suggested that Council provide clear direction regarding amendments to the Banner Policy, noting that the current policy limits approval to 501(c)(3) organizations headquartered in the City. She indicated that schools may not meet this requirement and that policy revisions may be needed to accommodate the Council's intentions. Mayor Ly suggested the City Manager draft language that is inclusive to Rosemead students and does not matter what high school they go to. Council Member Low suggested that staff also consult with Council Member Dang, who was not present, to obtain his input before finalizing any modifications to the administrative Banner Policy, ensuring all Council perspectives are considered. Mayor Ly asked City Manager Kim if he had clear understanding of the guidance to amend the policy. City Manager Kim stated that he is to include verbiage in the policy to allow for the schools, Rosemead residents that are students to be included in the Banner Program. Council Member Armenta stated that all Councilmembers receive the agenda in advance and are aware of items scheduled for discussion. She emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent precedent, noting that items should not be delayed or held solely due to the absence of a Councilmember unless prior notice or concerns are communicated to the City Clerk, City Manager or Mayor. C. Council Comments Council Member Low commented on the recent Moon Festival, noting that the event was very successful and well attended. She commended the vendors, who have Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 13 of 14 supported the event for approximately eight years, and thanked City staff for their efforts in organizing and supporting the festival. Council Member Armenta expressed appreciation to Council Member Low for initiating the Moon Festival in Rosemead. She noted that the event celebrates the City's diversity and provides an opportunity for residents to learn about different cultures. She also commended Parks and Recreation Director Boecking, City staff, the vendors, and the Sheriff s Department for their contributions to a well -organized and safe event. She noted that the festival was successful and highlighted the collaborative efforts of all City departments involved. Mayor Pro Tem. Clark commended the city staff on the September 9/11 ceremony. Mayor Ly echoed previous comments regarding the Moon Festival, noting the City's ability to honor diverse communities and events, including 9/11, Hispanic Heritage Month, and senior celebrations, often within the same month. He commended Council Member Low for her leadership and initiative in establishing the Moon Festival, recognizing her efforts in bringing the event to the community. Mayor Ly also reported that he, along with the Community Services Director, the Parks and Recreation. Director, and representatives from the City's federal lobbying team, traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate federal funding for City projects. He noted the delegation lobbied for congressional appropriations to support renovation of the Garvey Center and a proposed veterans workforce development and incubation program in partnership with the University of the West. Staff highlighted the City's ongoing efforts to align these advocacy efforts with potential funding opportunities from the U.S. Department of Labor and other federal agencies. Council Member Armenta expressed concerns about ongoing trash accumulation and poor property maintenance at commercial and vacant properties, particularly in South Rosemead. She cited frequent resident complaints regarding overflowing trash bins and improperly contained debris, noting related public health concerns. Council Member Armenta suggested reinstating a proactive Code Enforcement program to notify business owners of property maintenance requirements, including trash, weed, and debris removal. She emphasized the need for business cooperation to maintain clean and safe streets and highlighted issues with trash from private properties being placed in public streets during street sweeping, contributing to pest concerns. 7. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Ly adjourned the meeting at 8:37 p.m. Ericka Hernandez, City Clerk APPROVED: Sandra Armenta, Mayor Rosemead City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2024 Page 14 of 14