[1:13] Let

[12:59] this person walk up here first.

[13:14] Let's call the meeting to order. It's 6.43. Let me read the land

[13:19] acknowledgment. We would like to acknowledge that the land we inhibit today was once known

[13:24] as the Talvin Guard, the home of the Gabelino-Tangua people. We show respect to the Gabelino-Tangua

[13:31] people as well as to all indigenous people, past, present, and future, and honor their labor

[13:37] as original caretakers of the sland.

[13:39] We commit to uplifting the Gabbling Hill town for people,

[13:43] invite you to acknowledge the history

[13:45] and join us in training for the sland.

[13:51] Please join me for the flexible, please stand.

[13:53] You're able to face the flag, put your right hand over your heart.

[14:01] Ready,

[14:16] thank you, you may see it.

[14:23] Madam Clerk, roll call please.

[14:25] Council Member Wong.

[14:27] Present.

[14:28] Council Member Sanchez.

[14:30] Councilmember Low.

[14:31] Mayor Pro Temyang.

[14:33] Present.

[14:34] Mayor Goh.

[14:35] Present.

[14:35] And we have a form.

[14:38] agenda additions,

[14:39] the leashes and changes in adoptions.

[14:42] None.

[14:44] Okay.

[14:45] Okay, let's go with public communications.

[14:48] First speakers, Bob Jin and Carol Sullivan.

[15:03] Mayor Goll, city council, city manager.

[15:08] We're here on behalf of the Modern Part Library Foundation, and we just wanted to share with you, the city council and the city about our gala that's coming up in October 10th at Luminars. So we hope that everybody will join us. This will probably put us over the top to get that to purchase the

[15:30] the book mobile. So we're really excited this year for this year's data. And the theme of this is

[15:38] Aloha Blossom. So, you know, you're coming to your best Hawaiian shirt or dress and we're

[15:47] just going to have a good time like we did last year. We won't be hitting it out of the ballpark

[15:53] this this time though, but we will. It's let Aloha Blossom and we're honoring the Cherry Blossom

[15:59] committee, because they bring so much to our city.

[16:03] Their vent is one of the biggest set draws people from all over.

[16:06] So we want to honor them and we're honoring our prior mayor,

[16:10] City Council, Peter Chan, who has stayed active in the city.

[16:13] And he does bring every year to the library, Gala, at least four tables.

[16:17] And he has continued over the years.

[16:20] So we want to honor him and thank him for his service to the city.

[16:24] And you can either wear a lot of shirts or kimonos or happy coats whatever whichever whichever way you want to go.

[16:33] So we hope you all be there to enjoy and we'll have a little entertainment.

[16:37] But like I said, we won't be hitting it out of the ballpark this year.

[16:41] Thank you.

[16:43] Thank you.

[16:44] Next speaker, Andrea Zung.

[16:46] Well, before we go to the next speaker, I just want to say last year it was right in the middle of the Dodgers playoff

[16:53] We're before the meat before the gala ended

[16:56] 33 men hit that Grand Slam walkoff

[17:00] Yeah, the place went crazy because of that. Thank you. Oh,

[17:11] Soon mayor and city council members. My name is Andrea Zang. I'm an incoming senior at Mark Keppell High School and a co-hurt member of

[17:19] Mike Phong's 8049 Young Leaders Program.

[17:23] I'm here today to advocate for a left turn light

[17:26] at the intersection between Garvey Avenue

[17:29] and Alhambra Avenue.

[17:31] Every day on my way back from school,

[17:33] I have to wait for the green light to turn left

[17:35] while looking at incoming traffic.

[17:38] As a provisional driver,

[17:40] I've only had my license for three months.

[17:43] Turning left while waiting for incoming traffic

[17:45] can sometimes be extremely dangerous.

[17:47] For example, I was following a car that was turning left with me and a car was coming straight

[17:52] at me in the middle of the intersection.

[17:56] Many students from Mark Apple take the same route as me on their way home and have similar

[18:00] experience as well.

[18:03] As students, many of us are new drivers and the current intersection has a high risk for

[18:07] collisions.

[18:08] A single mistake could lead to possibly irreversible consequences.

[18:13] A study from Oregon State University states that older pedestrians are among the most

[18:19] likely to be killed in traffic accidents according to the National Safety Council.

[18:24] In the United States in 2020, there are 709 pedestrian fatalities in the 65 to 74 age

[18:32] group, 20% of total road user deaths in the age bracket.

[18:35] Monterrey Park's elderly population is around 22.5% of our total population.

[18:42] Our city has at least one resident hit and killed by a vehicle nearly every year.

[18:49] It's important to protect our elderly, especially the ones that often walk through our intersections

[18:54] to get groceries or to get to the park.

[18:58] Many studies show that left-turned-life significantly reduced collisions.

[19:03] One large-scale U.S. study by the United States Department of Transportation across four

[19:08] states found that implementing flashing yellow arrows leads to a 50% to 50% reduction

[19:15] in left-turn crashes.

[19:17] These improvements have shown to save lives, reduce injuries, and make intersection safer

[19:22] for everyone.

[19:23] From high schoolers, like me, to the elderly crossing to get groceries.

[19:27] And I sincerely hope that the City will act promptly to prevent future accidents and protect our community.

[19:34] Thank you.

[19:37] Actually, I believe you emailed some about, didn't you?

[19:42] I believe you emailed some of us about this issue.

[19:44] Are you the same person?

[19:49] Okay.

[19:50] Okay, because I did.

[19:50] I believe with you, whose email also we got.

[19:53] Have we, should this issue be looked up by either our Tribute Commission or the public works?

[20:03] especially given that she's brought it up.

[20:05] Yeah, so I think the property and thank you for bringing it up and say hi to the Assemblymember for us if you see the proper channel would be to kind of go through the traffic and then look at it, let the traffic commission take a look at it and get through some kind of a study and then this will come back up, but this is the start. Thank you for bringing that to attention.

[20:29] Next speaker, Alex Song.

[20:45] Thank you, City Council members, for having me on.

[20:49] My name is Alex Song, I'm a former captain, last year's captain.

[20:54] And I would like to, again, address the Barnes Park pool in these issues.

[20:59] And a lot of support that coming here for today for the Barnes Park pool.

[21:05] I would like to also just remind you guys how useful this swimming career has brought to.

[21:12] me in Mari Park, it helps me pay for schooling in my future four years at university.

[21:21] It employs me, the city pool here employs me, and we're missing a huge opportunity with the many future

[21:30] summaries and students that are going to be able to attend university because of swimming.

[21:38] And without the Barnes Park pool, we won't be able to do that.

[21:41] Thank you.

[21:50] Next speaker Dawn Rock.

[22:08] Good evening Mayor, City Council members and dedicated staff.

[22:13] On June 17th, Brandy Wheeler shared a message in the Monterrey Park Life Facebook group

[22:19] that was not only informative but deeply inspiring. Her words struck accord with me and I knew

[22:24] immediately they deserved to be heard beyond the screen. I reached out to her on June 23rd,

[22:30] hoping she would join us tonight to share her message in person. I haven't heard back yet,

[22:37] but I still wanted to honor her words and in the spirit in which they were written. Brandy Wheeler

[22:43] posted. In the view of Katie in the commentary on community, I thought perhaps some of you would

[22:51] appreciate this, Mrs. I just read from the power and community. I hope it lifts, informs, and inspires

[22:57] There are a few things more healing than being truly seen and heard.

[23:04] As a therapist, I witnessed that transformation, doesn't just come from within, it comes.

[23:09] It also blooms in the space between us, in relationships, in support groups, in families,

[23:15] in neighborhoods, and ultimately in communities.

[23:18] Market JV, there once said, there's no power for change greater than a community discovering

[23:24] what it cares about.

[23:25] This quote carries more than insight. It carries hope. It reminds us that change is not only possible but deeply powerful when it grows from the hearts of people who connected by something bigger than themselves.

[23:40] Many of the communities carry silent pain, unspoken grief, historic injustice, or lingering disconnection.

[23:47] Often these wounds go unattended not because people don't care, but because they've never

[23:54] been given a space to name what hurts or what matters.

[23:58] When a community creates room for real listening, things begin to shift.

[24:04] I've seen it happen in healing circles, in churches, in town hall meetings, and even in families

[24:10] around a kitchen table.

[24:11] When people are invited to name their truth without judgment, healing begins, and when

[24:18] people collectively say, we want something better, they begin to build it.

[24:24] If you're part of any group, whether it's a workplace, faith community, parent group,

[24:29] neighborhood association, or city council, I invite you to begin gently and asking together,

[24:36] What do you care about?

[24:39] What do we hope for each other?

[24:42] What breaks our hearts?

[24:44] What would it look like to care for one another intentionally?

[24:49] These are not easy questions, but they are loving ones.

[24:53] They open doors to new understanding, they help us slow down, listen deeply, and begin building

[24:59] something that reflects our shared humanity.

[25:01] Margaret Wheatley's words remind us that the real power of change comes not from

[25:07] top-down solutions but from within us together. When we uncover what we care

[25:13] about as a community, we begin to change not just systems but stories. We

[25:20] become builders of healing, tellers of truth, carriers of compassion.

[25:30] Thank you

[25:31] In the spirit of Wheatley's vision, where community is a catalyst for meaningful change,

[25:36] I'm proud to share that a group of Monterey Park residents have come together to form

[25:41] a non-profit organization called SGV Power Up Beacon.

[25:46] What united us was a shared urgency, the need to save the historic Barnes Park pool.

[25:53] Our mission is grounded in advocacy and action.

[25:55] We aim to, one, champion the development, improvement, and access to public facilities,

[26:01] two, promote equitable access to recreational, educational, and wellness resources,

[26:08] three, foster civic engagement and community volunteerism,

[26:13] four, strengthen the bonds that hold our neighborhoods together and

[26:17] five, collaborate with local governments, organizations, and residents to bring these goals to life.

[26:23] If you still move to be part of this work to help preserve a place where generations

[26:28] have gathered, grown, and thrived, please visit our Facebook page and our Work and Progress

[26:34] website, sgvpub.org to connect with us.

[26:40] Together we can protect more than our community and our pool.

[26:44] Together we can protect a legacy.

[26:46] Thank you.

[26:57] Next speaker is Arlene Rodriguez, who is yielding her time to Cindy Yee.

[27:01] Cindy, next speaker, seven minutes.

[27:11] Yeah, we,

[27:15] Mr. Mayor and members of the City Council, I actually have another announcement

[27:24] from the library that I've been participating in from my lifelong idol, actress Nancy

[27:32] Kwan, who will be at our library on July 26, signing her book from memoir.

[27:42] And if you can't make it that day, you could buy tickets to the Los

[27:47] Feliz three theater July 31st and see a double header. The world is

[27:52] a Wang and Flower Drum song. And I told my son when he was in high

[27:57] school that he needed to see the movie and he really enjoyed it

[28:00] because Hong Kong does not look like it was back in the 60s where his

[28:07] His grandparents and both sides came to the land of the free, and he really loved the

[28:14] movie and the beautiful, beautiful scenery from that movie is deep picked throughout.

[28:21] Anyway, on to important issues.

[28:25] Since April 16, a handful of residents, primarily from the swimming community, have been steadily

[28:32] growing and meeting, while also attending every Senate Council meeting to pressure this Council to rebuild Barnes-Wing

[28:40] poll, speakers have touched upon the city's reputation as a mediocre one, to accusing the

[28:48] city council of neglecting the city's infrastructure, especially the historical Barnes poll and the

[28:55] a wasteful spending of $500,000 of taxpayer dollars by throwing dirt into the pool without a proper engineering report which further compromise the pool's integrity.

[29:09] Consent calendar item 9G tonight, the California Parks and Water Conservation Fund grant, as they start in the right direction, and according to the documentation is due on August 5th, a DA before the next City Council meeting.

[29:25] Our newly formed 501 organization would definitely like to be included and work with the city on the successful review process and any other recommendations on additions and corrections as a partner in achieving a successful solution.

[29:41] We humbly request that all failed grants and any other relevant items concerning the pool be submitted to ensure a successful ribbon cutting event in the near future.

[29:53] However, SGV-PUB would also like you to consider, consider,

[30:00] Consider other avenues of funding to match the 50% match if this federal grant on item 9G is received and approved. And in addition to that, that we have identified the following possible funding to include the swimming pool. California development block grant. The second one, donations received from

[30:29] my newly found SGV power up beacon.

[30:34] Three, Alhambra School District, which knows the importance of aquatic swimming programs

[30:40] for both Alhambra High and Mark Kepel High.

[30:44] Four, formal applications submitted to the state and or federal levels declaring Barnes

[30:51] Poole and Storks site of the summer 84 Olympics.

[30:56] The 10-page application is ready to be submitted.

[31:01] Five, collection of any outstanding leans that moderate park tax payers are hooding.

[31:08] Like the $17 million dollar wall on private property on Garvey Avenue, known as a good view property.

[31:17] Six, and the remaining balance of any, to be withdrawn from the General Funds,

[31:24] which was explained by two members of our team in late May that we really have funds

[31:30] and can participate after all outside avenues have been exhausted.

[31:38] The newest member of our team

[31:40] is a third generation resident of Monterey Park who resides directly above Barnes Park.

[31:48] She has an outstanding record of writing award-winning grants

[31:53] at both the state and federal levels, having secured a $54 million community grant in 2019

[32:03] and achieved funding for other aquatic centers in California, such as Gardina.

[32:11] She has also played a role in obtaining funds funding resources for the beautiful SoFi Stadium,

[32:19] and due to our accidental encounter at the doors of City Hall, exactly nine days ago,

[32:28] I would not have been aware of the Federal California Development Block Grant.

[32:33] Even with her busy schedule, she is willing to assist in our endeavors to rebuild Barnes Poo

[32:40] for the next generation of Monterey Park residents and neighbors.

[32:45] Lastly, our city should consider collecting taxes on the use of Airbnb rentals within

[32:52] our city.

[32:53] These Airbnb taxes should be used to maintain the barn swimming pool by designating a name

[33:00] like Preventative Maintenance Fund to cover the monthly quarterly and annual maintenance fees

[33:06] rather than letting it deteriorate as our city has over the years.

[33:12] We are all stakeholders and willing to work with the city to achieve and focus on the successful completion of Barnesville.

[33:23] It's up to you, the city council, the city manager, the city attorney, and your congressional rep,

[33:31] who endorsed all of you to make this dream a reality before she herself retires.

[33:38] Thank you for your time.

[33:47] Next speaker, Dave Jones.

[34:01] Mr. Mayor, council members, distinguished staff.

[34:06] I come here today to speak against the proposed increase in fees for trash pickup.

[34:12] Last year, the City of Monoray Park,

[34:20] last year, the City of Monoray Park moved to a direct billing service for trash pickup with the company where.

[34:30] Prior to that, for a three-unit property on Sept and Avenue, the city utility bill was $195.

[34:41] After that, the wear bill itself was $179 and the city bill was still $136 for a total of $316.

[34:53] The difference there is $121, which is 62%, so that means last year, our charges for city services already went up 62%.

[35:05] A four unit property on CFDIN went from $269 to $188 for city services and $239 for where, an increase of $159 or 59%.

[35:22] So again, pretty much across the board, we're looking at a 60% increase in services already last year, not even a full year from today.

[35:34] Now, we have received notice that the city wants to contract with where to increase the billing another 18%.

[35:43] saying that that's due to Senate Bill 1383 and that they're required to do a five-year contract with CPI increase.

[35:55] Well, the CPI is 2.7% right now.

[35:59] 18% is not 2.7%.

[36:05] Now, if you want to say that that's for over five years, well guess what?

[36:09] Five times 2.7 isn't 18% either.

[36:12] the math ain't math and folks okay so I get it that costs go up I've been in the city

[36:21] of I've lived on Taylor Drive for 31 years I grew up in the city I lived in

[36:26] Newmark for another 14 years when I wasn't in Monterey Park I was just

[36:31] crossed a ten-free way in Ohamber this is the only place I've lived my entire life I

[36:35] worked in the city of Monterey Park for 20 years okay I don't mind I make

[36:42] more now than I made then. I'm glad that the people who are servicing us are going to make more

[36:49] of it. But they're not getting 18 percent. I'll do a little bit more math for you since I have

[36:54] some time. It takes less than a minute to pick up my trash cans. It takes less than a minute to

[36:59] pick up all three trash cans. Four times a week. That's four minutes.

[37:05] That's $900 an hour to service

[37:08] a property, $900 an hour. Now, you can say, oh, well, they've got a drive to and from,

[37:15] they've got to dispose of trash. But that's all collected. That's not going to take

[37:19] more than an aggregate of five minutes or so. These prices are outrageous. We pay them.

[37:28] I don't mind paying them. But when you say I've got to pay another 18% for no reason at all

[37:34] because the math ain't mathin'.

[37:36] I think that that's ridiculous.

[37:38] I encourage you to go back and look at this contract.

[37:41] I encourage you first to vote no.

[37:45] Thank you very much.

[37:55] Next.

[37:56] Mr. Mayor, just a really quick,

[37:57] procedural question on this.

[37:58] If there are comments on the item,

[38:01] the specific public hearing item,

[38:04] if they speak during public comment,

[38:06] are they still allowed to speak during the public comment?

[38:08] The public comment period for the public hearing item,

[38:11] or is that something we should reserve for?

[38:14] So, just to let people know, if you are here for the public hearing item on the trash

[38:21] fee item, that you should probably reserve that and make sure your request for public

[38:27] comment is for during the public hearing portion of the meeting for that item.

[38:37] Okay.

[38:38] So, he understands that.

[38:40] I think we have speakers in the item later, so okay.

[38:44] No, are you out of any more?

[38:46] Next speaker, John Lem, so as he noted, if you are going to speak on this item at this

[38:52] point, you will not be able to speak on this item during the item when it's heard.

[38:58] So would you like to speak now, still, or would you like to wait until later?

[39:06] John?

[39:08] So that's Mr. Lem.

[39:11] Okay.

[39:11] Next speaker is Amarani RC?

[39:35] Good evening, respective city manager, city mayor and council members, along with our city

[39:43] attorney and city clerk.

[39:45] And everybody else here, I am a resident of the city.

[39:50] I am a mother, along with paralegal and city attorney services.

[39:55] I understand the complexity of our city issues along with how important it is for

[40:02] a residence to come and speak up about our city issues.

[40:06] I am in support of our Barnes Park pool as a community member.

[40:12] We bring our children to different parks, we bring them to our pools.

[40:17] Our pool, our Barnes Park pool has been closed since 2021, it's been about four years.

[40:23] Our community needs that, our children needs that, it's important to exercise and to bring our children together.

[40:30] And without our pool, many of us parents, and I speak for myself, along with other parents.

[40:38] We all get together and bring our kids together.

[40:41] We have to drive out to other pools.

[40:43] Other pools along with George Elder is a little bit farther out, borderline to Montebello.

[40:50] So, another poll that we have to drive out to is Rosemead and Beldebeer in East LA.

[40:58] I believe that if we bring our pool here, we're able to make money by charging children

[41:05] and adults for entering.

[41:08] The Rosemead pool right now charges $2 for adult, $1 per child.

[41:13] We can do the same here and be able to have our pool in our state.

[41:18] It's very important. Please. Thank you. Thank you.

[41:30] Next speaker Vivian.

[41:47] Hi everyone. Thank you so much for being here tonight and

[41:50] Thank you for so many rescindances and coming here for I think the same reason

[41:56] I'm here to talk about the swimming pool. I

[42:00] Go up here and then my kids go up here from the school and they learn swim from the city pool

[42:07] and then they become part of the swimming team,

[42:10] and then get into all kinds of champions,

[42:14] and that helps them become to get into a good college.

[42:20] I think this is essential for the city

[42:22] to help their children in the future.

[42:26] And Montreal Park is one of the best cities to live.

[42:30] You know, so I think having a part here

[42:34] is essential for the residents and to help the city maintain that status too, you know.

[42:41] So, you know, so multiple city, I know the mayor has been doing a lot of work to help

[42:48] the city to do better. In the Costco area, I know there's a lot of the vendors, I mean,

[42:57] I think that helps the city generate a lot of profits.

[43:03] I don't understand why the city councils can we think about a way to either get some

[43:12] of the profit from the revenue and ask for donation and doing some kind of increase

[43:20] of the expense to help to build a swimming pool.

[43:23] I think the city residents will be happy to help.

[43:27] You know, so because I think not only building a regular pool,

[43:32] I would suggest to build a Olympic size swimming pool, too, if possible.

[43:39] Thank you.

[43:42] You know, I know, like, Cerrito City, and they have one of the best high school there.

[43:49] And then I think Monter, a part has a very good high school, too.

[43:53] to, Mark Apple is a fabulous, you know, they help my kids get into UCLA, get into medical

[43:59] school. So they are good schools,

[44:05] like you guys are young, you know, I'm glad we have

[44:08] so many young city councils here. So I think like for as a young generation, yeah, we have

[44:16] to think about our families, our neighborhoods. We need to help our children in the future.

[44:23] So what you're doing here is helping panning a pan with your vision to helping the city.

[44:30] So when you're sitting on that seat, you're not only thinking about one year, two years.

[44:36] We think about five years, ten years, or hundred years to pan for the city.

[44:41] So I hope we can count on you guys to do a good job, to protect our city, to protect our swimming pool.

[44:48] Not just fill it out with the soil, you know, so that's not right.

[44:51] Thank you.

[44:55] Thank you.

[44:57] Thank you.

[44:57] Next speaker and GQ.

[45:05] My name is Angie. I also live in Monterey Park since 1970, and I got to in 1984, Olympic, 44 years ago.

[45:17] And I'm excited for 2020, looking forward to that. Absolutely. Monterey Park has the significant of 11 freeway.

[45:29] It's already built in rich CD that has the ability to go everywhere within 25 minutes.

[45:39] So I'm hoping when we have a bigger vision besides the CD to be outstandingly globally stood

[45:48] up when Olympic guests come and visit us.

[45:53] I totally would support the nonprofit that's starting.

[45:56] And from my end, I run the nonprofit foundation hours.

[46:02] We already initially group that is going to be a welcome mobile team would drive people

[46:10] to the Olympic and place and drive them back to Monty Park to eat.

[46:16] So whoever liked to join the team, I'm in charge of the training.

[46:21] I'm an excellent driver because I drive 8 hours every day during my young years driving all this

[46:28] kids to swimming pool. I don't need to be asked. So, and I am hoping when a CD is so welcoming

[46:37] visitors whoever see us we ever a percent United State, we'd represent Monterey Park in the bigger

[46:44] a light and we will generate money coming in from all those well care for visitors and

[46:54] that would be part of the funding donated to build the international Olympic pool too.

[47:00] So this is on our table and I hope the City Manager will continue to connect us with the

[47:07] international group.

[47:09] Yeah.

[47:10] Thank you.

[47:15] Next speaker, Dylan Colosa.

[47:31] Good afternoon.

[47:32] Oh, it's just sort.

[47:33] Okay. Good afternoon.

[47:34] City Hall.

[47:35] I'm here today on behalf of this

[47:37] the pool.

[47:38] I'm an incoming senior for my

[47:40] people high school.

[47:41] And you're the couple's next swim

[47:44] captain at least one of five of them.

[47:46] And of course, I'll talk about two

[47:48] the pool today.

[47:49] So one thing that I've always kept in mind

[47:51] is the big little motto we have

[47:55] of above us, pride in the past, faith in the future,

[47:58] and you know, pride in the past.

[48:00] It's pretty self-explanatory, right?

[48:02] You take pride for what you've done in the past.

[48:03] All these talk about 1984 Olympics.

[48:06] I'm obviously not that old.

[48:10] I was never, I never even knew that we held

[48:13] Olympics until the last month.

[48:14] Born in 2008, you know, Gen Z's.

[48:17] But I like to say, right?

[48:19] We hosted Olympics or something like that,

[48:21] and Barnes Park was clearly somewhat involved in this and I think we have

[48:27] brought in this. We wouldn't be bearing dirt in it. Am I right guys? So and here's

[48:34] where you know the second part of this comes in faith in the future. We have

[48:37] so many people coming to these meetings bi-weekly every single day about the

[48:42] swimming pool about these other problems that we have right. I'm clearly

[48:46] extremely biased towards the swimming pool. I've been swimming for 11, 12 years

[48:49] of my life. I work for the park. I'm a lifeguard there. That's also an issue. But faith in the future,

[48:57] I'm a very simple guy. All this means to me is that there is faith about news for the pool,

[49:03] specifically Barnes or maybe a new pool in general, but preferably Barnes because there's a lot of

[49:08] people at work who tell me stories about how Barnes was just an amazing pool back then and how it brought

[49:13] in a lot more money than Elder does. Speaking of that, when we work recreational swimming and I work

[49:18] there. And I look at cashier, look at how much money we make at the end of the day. We're

[49:22] barely making above $100 or $200 on Saturdays. I don't know if you guys know this, but this

[49:29] is a massive issue because Saturdays are supposed to be our best days, especially in the middle

[49:34] of summer, right? Everybody's freed. There's a lot of people who want to come in, a lot of

[49:37] regulars I see. I'm friends with some of the regulars who've told me that before bonds was closed,

[49:43] they would go to that pool, right? It's just much bigger. It's bigger. The kitty pool was functional.

[49:50] Staff was just much great over there and, you know, just things in general. It was close to everything.

[49:56] My boss Scott tells me that before

[49:59] Barnes was closed and I was a student at Chaoxing

[50:03] summer school or after school program. They would cost their red army because there was a bunch of Chinese

[50:09] these little kids coming with red shirts and he told us that when week would come, they

[50:14] would make around $300 on a weekday, like a Monday.

[50:20] $300, I'm not too sure, but if my math is correct, $300 is a lot better than $100, especially

[50:26] on compared to Monday and Saturday.

[50:28] So I'd just like to bring that up.

[50:30] If you guys don't think that the pool is a good investment, which probably isn't, I know

[50:36] it does lose a lot of money.

[50:38] All I would like to say is that it would bring in a lot more money just due to the fact that Barnes Park pool is just much closer to everything.

[50:48] Like the Boys and Crulls Club from a month ago, right? They came up to Spoke saying, oh yeah, we want to have all these programs, which some of you guys supported, right?

[50:55] You guys want to talk about the program for Barnes Park? There you go. Boys and Girls Club has swimming program.

[51:00] A lot of other schools like my Chao Xing, right? They're looking for pool right now too. I don't think they have a pool right now.

[51:05] Now, Barnes Park was that pool for me.

[51:07] Every single Monday we would go and go and swim.

[51:11] One last thing I'd like to bring up is lessons.

[51:14] A lot of parents who go to lessons would just have some issues with how far it is.

[51:21] Although I'd say that it's not too far compared to Barnes, or at least not too far spaced out between each other.

[51:27] I'd like to say that there are some people who may or may not want to be interested in taking lessons for

[51:32] lessons, afternoon lessons, adult lessons especially. We're sharing a pool with our adult lessons

[51:39] with water aerobics which isn't a really big problem but I'd like to state that hey you know maybe

[51:45] we get these aerobics people who are doing restrictions in the water, get their own pool,

[51:49] get them a lot more space and we can have our adult lessons who are overcrowded, get their other

[51:54] pool at once or maybe possibly another pool right. That's about all, there's just one thing to keep

[52:00] in mind, pride in the past, faith in the future.

[52:03] I came to the student thing for my history class, and this was the first thing that I was

[52:09] told by a lot of the council members, pride in the past, faith in the future.

[52:13] I'm not seeing too much pride in the past, I'm kind of seeing faith in the future, and I'd

[52:17] really like to see more of everything.

[52:18] Thank you.

[52:21] Thank you, Dylan.

[52:25] No other secrets.

[52:27] Okay.

[52:31] Staff communications.

[52:32] questions. No, okay. Presentation.

[52:41] My park community healing fund update.

[52:55] I hurt my knee,

[52:56] so I'm living around. Good evening, Mayor, Pro Tem, City Council members. This is Amy

[53:03] Leia. I'm the city treasurer, but I'm also the liaison for the community healing fund from

[53:09] on January 1st, 2023, Monty Park experienced one of the most tragic events we've ever seen.

[53:19] I can't believe it's been over two years if we think about it, it just felt like yesterday.

[53:28] Our group was, it came to be in efforts to help the community heal.

[53:33] So with community members, we were assigned with the funds that we had raised to distribute grants and funds to the community that needed a support.

[53:45] So we were able to do that, I'm happy to report that we've accomplished our mission and we have given out over $230,000.

[53:54] We've supported 48 individual grants for victims that were present at the shooting.

[54:01] We were also able to support 15 projects by community organizations, the BookMobile,

[54:10] the Boys and Girls Club, the Monty Park Fired Relief Fund, Belivist Elementary School,

[54:17] Asian Youth Group, Asian Youth Center, the Ramahambra and Monty Park Rotary Club,

[54:27] There are Picasso,

[54:32] the resiliency center, and the anti-Asian hate coalition.

[54:37] So we are happy to let you know that we have accomplished the mission and have distributed

[54:43] all the funds.

[54:45] Do you have any questions?

[54:48] So, my question was going to be how much funding remains, it sounds like we're at zero.

[54:54] Almost zero.

[54:55] Very close.

[54:55] Almost zero.

[54:56] And then is there any formal activity to close up the, are we, have we already stopped

[55:01] taking donations or?

[55:03] Yeah, we've instructed California Community Foundation to close down the donation

[55:07] fund site.

[55:09] And if possible, maybe we can just do a final report on how the grants were, all the grants

[55:17] that were made and the funds were expended and maybe that's something we can just post

[55:20] online on the web page for that.

[55:22] And just wanted to add my appreciation to you, Amy, and to the steering committee members for your multiple years long service in this effort and really appreciate a lot of the thoughtfulness and commitment that you and the other committee members have really just shown in helping to steer the committee and steer the effort in terms of helping the fundraise but also to support community groups that are doing this program and help with

[55:52] healing and re-establishing right hope and improving the community in the wake of the

[56:00] mass shooting at the start ballroom.

[56:03] So I really appreciate that.

[56:03] With S, maybe the city manager to schedule an appreciation session or certificate session

[56:09] for the steering committee members past and present to be recognized by the council at

[56:15] some point.

[56:16] I just want to thank the community at Monter Park and all the donors across the country.

[56:20] I'm not sure if you know, but we did get donations from all corners of the United States.

[56:26] New York, Virginia, Texas, donations came from across the country.

[56:30] People were thinking about the victims here and our city, so thank you very much.

[56:35] Mr. Mayor, yes.

[56:37] Again, thank you Amy for that report.

[56:38] And I also want to just thank everyone in the community who came together to monitor part during our time of crisis.

[56:45] and for opening, not just the hearts, but the hearts as well.

[56:49] And I remember, I know like some of us, like for our birthday, we had asked donations

[56:55] to open healing fund and I was just impressed that people continue to give during that period

[57:01] and it just shows that when the community comes together that we are able to leverage resources

[57:07] and hopefully that is something that we can take with us in moving forward as a community.

[57:13] Even two years after the shooting, we've gotten some checks as late as January of this year.

[57:20] Okay.

[57:21] Yeah, thank you Amy for leading these efforts and thanks to all the donors, everyone who

[57:26] contributed to the healing fund.

[57:28] I think a lot of the victims families really appreciated it.

[57:32] And we're looking forward to acknowledging everyone who contributed at a later time as well

[57:38] as the memorial that's going to be built as well.

[57:41] Thank you.

[57:42] Again, Amy.

[57:43] Thank you for all your support and service during this 12-ing times in the last two-and-a-half

[57:47] years.

[57:49] I was actually a little hopeful that maybe we have some money there we can kind of push

[57:53] it toward the big memorial that we're kind of helping design, the permanent memorial, but

[57:59] you may not be done yet because we're going to need you to go for the longer term fundraising

[58:05] It's a great angle of getting more money to help if we can create a longer lasting memorial for the city.

[58:11] So I'll do.

[58:11] Thank you.

[58:12] Mr. Mayor, real quick.

[58:13] Well, thank you, but separate, but related item, if we can maybe schedule the resiliency center to come to an update as well at some point in a future council meeting.

[58:23] It's also minor standing that they have not received federal reimbursement for their costs upfront of funding and putting up the resilience there the last two years or so.

[58:34] And maybe on the web page for the healing fund is that in sunsets, maybe we can include a link to contribute or support the Resiliency Center and their operations since they've been essentially absorbing those costs, which I think are over a million dollars a year, to provide mental health and other services for survivors and for those in the community that want to seek services.

[58:59] And there's less and less guarantee or less and less likelihood, I think, that they will recover those funds from the federal government at this point as we get further and further away from the incident.

[59:12] So maybe we can find a way to provide some support there.

[59:16] Mr. Mayor, members of the council, definitely, I could work back with Amy and ensure that we put together an article or information on our web page about how the dollars are spent.

[59:27] I sat in with Amy on the few of the meetings right in the initiation stage, the oversight

[59:32] committee, and I want to take a moment to just thank her for her volunteerism to this

[59:36] committee.

[59:36] No, it wasn't an easy task.

[59:38] And definitely understand that it was probably a longer commitment than maybe first anticipated.

[59:44] So we appreciate you, Amy, but we'll definitely work back and we will also schedule an update

[59:48] from the CSC Resilience Center as well.

[59:51] Thank you.

[1:00:00] Okay, consent items, consent agenda items. Any other items?

[1:00:36] I was just note, Mr. Mayor, if the remaining items on consent are moved for the minutes. The meeting of May 21st, I was not here. So if I can recuse myself on that specifically.

[1:00:51] And then on item 9H, my personal property is within 500 feet of the project proposed.

[1:01:01] So if I will also note my recusal on 9H.

[1:01:11] So that's a motion from customer one to have a second.

[1:01:14] Second.

[1:01:15] Second by Pro Temyang.

[1:01:18] Let's go ahead and take that vote.

[1:01:23] I approve unanimously.

[1:01:25] Okay. Now let's get to the part where everyone's waiting for

[1:01:32] 9G.

[1:01:45] Good evening Mayor, Mayor Protzen, the City Council members, Robert Ageri, Director of Recreation Community Services, and to me tonight I also have Recreation Manager Kristina Allatory with me.

[1:01:57] Just to kind of update everyone, we're in our final phase of the Park System Master Plan process, and we'll be bringing that back to City Council in the very near future.

[1:02:06] One of the projects that's been identified throughout the process as a community priority has been the redevelopment of the Barnes Park swimming pool.

[1:02:16] The California State Parks, Land and Conservation Fund presents a unique opportunity for funding to apply for a grant to support new developments in new outdoor recreational spaces.

[1:02:31] is for the current funding cycle, there's $35 million that will be available.

[1:02:36] And agencies are able to apply for up to $6 million with a 50% match.

[1:02:43] If awarded the $6 million, the city would be responsible for at least $3 million.

[1:02:49] And we understand that the pool project is estimated to be much more than the 9 million.

[1:02:55] So we would need to seek additional partnerships and

[1:02:58] and funding sources to meet the rest of those project needs.

[1:03:02] As part of the grant application for this grant, a resolution must be adopted by City Council,

[1:03:09] and the resolution authorizes City staff to apply for the grant.

[1:03:14] And we anticipate hearing results from the grant committee sometime in the beginning of 2026.

[1:03:20] So tonight's staff is recommending that City Council authorize staff by adopting a resolution,

[1:03:26] allowing us to apply for the land, water, and conservation fund grant.

[1:03:31] I can please my staff report and I'm available for any questions.

[1:03:39] Before I get to questions, I want to just reiterate, Dylan,

[1:03:43] I know you said you were not around in 1984, but I know for

[1:03:48] fact that your mom was around during that time because we were running around in

[1:03:51] elementary school.

[1:03:53] We do charge a fee for elder and barns when it was open

[1:03:59] And I just wanted to point that out because I think the last speaker before like three before you have mentioned

[1:04:04] Should we should start charging just use of fees at the at the pool and we have I just wanted to point that out

[1:04:12] So I just want to point that out. Okay

[1:04:17] Questions comments actually can we open up to any public are there any item? Oh, I don't public comments or no comments

[1:04:26] Okay, well, I just want to note for this much since there are swimmers here as well

[1:04:31] Right, I want to say personally, I think this council does want to see a pool happen.

[1:04:38] It's just a matter of how it's going to happen.

[1:04:40] I encourage folks as Robert noted, the park system master plan is coming to council next

[1:04:47] month.

[1:04:48] I believe there was a special session workshop for feedback, specifically for a pool around

[1:04:54] the pool.

[1:04:55] I know a few members in the audience were part of that session as well.

[1:04:58] I appreciate and very much appreciate not only tonight but the continued and consistent

[1:05:03] engagement by many members of the audience tonight around this pool issue in particular.

[1:05:09] I know some of you are very frustrated with the pace and the timeline for action.

[1:05:16] I want to say I think not just on this but a lot of things I think I and many others including

[1:05:22] those on the council would love to see things move a lot faster than they actually happen.

[1:05:26] But there is a certain process of doing things and there's a certain way to do things responsibly and as we've noted in the past

[1:05:33] Right, the pool is not the only public works and capital improvement project that the city has to

[1:05:39] That is a need for this city and for those who are here at our previous meetings when we talked about the budget and the capital improvement plan

[1:05:47] We've been looking at a number of

[1:05:50] If big ticket items that the city needs to make investments on, not just the pool.

[1:05:57] It's a matter of how do we pay for all of these things and how do we prioritize what we

[1:06:01] can do with limited resources now and into the future.

[1:06:05] But I want to assure people that that doesn't mean because I've seen some information people

[1:06:09] posting out there about how this council is not committed to a pool, has said no to a pool,

[1:06:15] is shutting down the pool.

[1:06:17] I just want to be clear, Barnes Park pool has been closed for several years now, I think since 2021.

[1:06:23] And so we have an existing pool at Elder that continues to operate.

[1:06:27] I know it's not ideal, I swim there, I'm a lap swimmer, they are on the weekends, I know it's not ideal personally.

[1:06:34] And I'll be frank too, Barnes Park was not an ideal pool either, it was not 25 yards by 50 meters.

[1:06:40] And so there's a lot that needs to happen, and a lot that we need to do, and I welcome, I very welcome.

[1:06:45] And I'm very encouraged by the level of engagement we've seen from the community around this there's still a lot more for us to do and I welcome the offers of assistance and help that have been made today and in past meetings as well.

[1:07:00] If there are community members that are interested in fundraising for rebuilding the pool, we will we're happy to work with you to see how we can help on the city side.

[1:07:10] any of these efforts, we're happy to work with anyone who's interested in donating any services for design.

[1:07:15] I believe we've reached out to one person that was already mentioned as a potential help on this effort.

[1:07:21] Anyone who's willing interested in helping on this, I think the City staff, the City Council, the City is happy to work with anyone and talk more in detail about what we can do together because we're going to need to work together to get this done.

[1:07:35] And because even if we get this grant, which we'll see, but even if we get this grant,

[1:07:42] there's a huge gap to make up in terms of the financing.

[1:07:44] And even if we got the money tomorrow, which we, right, we're honestly not going to get

[1:07:48] tomorrow, it would still be many months at least of design to make sure we have the right design

[1:07:54] working with many of you who are interested in the pool, the swimmers, the school people,

[1:07:58] the manor raise and others who use the pool on what we actually want in the design of a pool.

[1:08:06] And breaking ground and construction is going to take more, it's not going to happen overnight.

[1:08:11] This is something that's at least a few years away even if we decided to do it tonight and had all the money.

[1:08:16] So I just want to set the foundational kind of understanding there a little bit.

[1:08:22] I really appreciate everyone engaging in this process and I welcome and encourage you to continue to engage.

[1:08:29] There's a lot more discussion to have.

[1:08:30] I hope you'll be here for Parks Master Plan as that draft plan is presented to the City Council in a few weeks

[1:08:36] and encourage you to participate in that process and to work with us.

[1:08:41] If any of you are interested in supporting in other ways, the pool, we've got to work together to make this happen.

[1:08:48] And frankly, there's a lot of other things we would love to work with all of you on making sure the pool and other parks assets are invested in and maintained properly.

[1:09:04] There's been some, I just want to note this really quickly, and this calls and it's not me if I need to be stopped, but there's been talk about historic destination for the pool.

[1:09:14] I will just know in a quick question to the city manager.

[1:09:19] We have currently at my understanding where we have one California,

[1:09:23] National Historic Monument or designation in the city which is El Encanto, is that right?

[1:09:29] Yes, that's correct.

[1:09:30] How much funding do we receive from any outside funding source to maintain or improve that property?

[1:09:36] The city does not receive any funding specifically for historical sites, so

[1:09:41] So we don't get any funds from the state or federal government to support Alencanto as a historic landmark.

[1:09:47] Have we ever received any funding in the last 15-20 years?

[1:09:52] I believe that there was a grant, but that was for maintenance around the felonton, I believe?

[1:09:58] Yeah, that was to address the cascades and it wasn't for the historic.

[1:10:01] It wasn't for Alencanto and it was not in relation to being a, it wasn't a historical grant.

[1:10:06] It was just for the maintenance of the stairway and it was for the maintenance of the stairway.

[1:10:12] Just because you declare something, a historic, give it historic designation doesn't mean money automatically flows in to maintain or restore or build something up.

[1:10:22] Other kind of fall on to that, do we, if, right, Ellen Conto, if things are declared a historic designation or given historic designation, that means there are even more restrictions in terms of if you want to rebuild it or make something better.

[1:10:38] or it's even harder to do it as a right?

[1:10:41] That is correct.

[1:10:42] The point of that historical destination is for preservation.

[1:10:46] So definitely sourcing materials that were similar

[1:10:49] from the period, definitely it creates difficulties

[1:10:53] in maintaining a facility like Alancanto.

[1:10:56] Correct.

[1:10:57] Great, I see Carl's, I'm done with that one.

[1:10:59] Thanks, I see Carl about to step in,

[1:11:01] but I just wanted to make that point.

[1:11:03] But again, want to welcome those in this new nonprofit

[1:11:07] profit SGV power up beacon.

[1:11:10] If you're interested in helping to raise money,

[1:11:12] the manor raise other folks who are interested

[1:11:15] in doing this, we're gonna need that help if we move forward

[1:11:18] on this grant, and if we receive this grant

[1:11:19] or any other grant, it's very unlikely that we will receive

[1:11:23] a full allocation to build out the entire pool

[1:11:27] and complex that we need to do.

[1:11:30] So there will be a gap no matter what.

[1:11:33] And that was the same case for the library

[1:11:34] when there was local matching funds

[1:11:36] that we had to fundraise, this community fundraise to meet the state grant that helped

[1:11:41] to rebuild the library across the street, very likely be a similar case here for the pool

[1:11:48] at some point. So we're going to need all your help. I welcome all your help and I hope

[1:11:52] that you'll keep engaged as we move forward on this process, hopefully, and I hope they'll continue

[1:11:57] to show up. With that, I just say I support this item and let's apply for it if there are other

[1:12:03] opportunities, other potential funding opportunities, I understand, Robert, you went to another grant

[1:12:10] opportunity for potential funding for parks.

[1:12:12] Yeah, there's another grant coming up in October that will be applying for as well.

[1:12:15] So I just want to note for the audience, those who are here that we are actively looking at

[1:12:20] other, any kinds of funding opportunities, if they're, if you, if anyone, the audience sees

[1:12:26] other funding opportunities that you think we may not be aware of, just forward them on.

[1:12:29] And we will take a look at them and we do have grant writers on board as consultants for the city not only for this, but for everything that we're looking for grant money for to pursue opportunities like that for funding.

[1:12:43] So we're constantly on look out, but if you think there's something else we should look at, send it our way, we're happy to take a look and we're happy to pursue that, but I'm in support of this and love to see us win this grant.

[1:12:54] Mr. Mayor, yes thank you Robert again, thank you so much for bringing us to staff, you know, again we appreciate this opportunity.

[1:13:03] I do want to ask you if you could maybe walk through kind of, you know, the application process for this grant, you know, especially for information.

[1:13:12] And also, I want to take the time to also thank our Assemblymember Mike Fong's office because, you know, when I started on the agenda, I reached out to his office and

[1:13:21] And there are also times to give us a contact at the State Parks Department.

[1:13:25] And I understand that you had a chance to speak to that person at the State Parks Department without correct?

[1:13:30] Yeah, I spoke with her in depth about the project.

[1:13:33] Trying to understand if there's additional things that we can do to kind of strengthen our application,

[1:13:37] understanding that we did apply for the same grant back in 2016.

[1:13:42] I also wanted to see if having been that we've closed the poll since 2021,

[1:13:47] and that the poll now has been backfilled.

[1:13:51] I wanted to see if it would qualify as a completely new build or if it would be considered

[1:13:56] a renovation.

[1:13:57] Then for me it would still be considered a renovation, however we will still try to make

[1:14:02] a case that it is a new build since it's been closed so long.

[1:14:06] And then just chatting through also additional things to strengthen the application as far as

[1:14:12] other outdoor amenities, unfortunately things with the facility don't qualify because it is, the grant is focused on outdoor recreation, so adding features to the building don't exactly strengthen application, but any facility that is supportive of the project does qualify, so locker room facility and the restrooms do qualify as part of the grant.

[1:14:37] Yeah.

[1:14:37] And if I'm not mistaken, that current locker room, it's not, we would need some ADA upgrades

[1:14:44] to be done.

[1:14:45] Yeah.

[1:14:45] And that would be a positive to the application, though, correct?

[1:14:48] Yes.

[1:14:49] Absolutely.

[1:14:50] And then we do, we would be serving a disadvantaged community.

[1:14:53] So we do have, they're definitely some, some pluses to our application.

[1:14:56] So, in meeting with Townsend, you know, we definitely...

[1:15:00] We're optimistic about our opportunity, and so we're going to do our best to score as high as we can. The application is due August the 5th, and so we'll be submitting that, probably to the deadline. And then, like I mentioned, again, the LA County has just released grand information for some grants that we'll be applying for in October. And those, I think the max on that is $4 million. Thank you.

[1:15:31] First of all, I wanted to thank all of the supporters of the Barnes Park pool for

[1:15:35] consistently coming out to our City Council meetings.

[1:15:38] I think your commitment really shows a lot of support for a pool.

[1:15:43] And I myself am in support for adopting this resolution as well.

[1:15:48] I think it would be great for a city to apply for this land and water conservation fund grant as well as the October grant when it comes out and any other grants that we could possibly get to

[1:15:58] to come up with the money for the pool.

[1:16:01] Peggy, backing on Councilmember Wands,

[1:16:03] question about the historical designation.

[1:16:06] If we do get a historical designation on Barsburg pool,

[1:16:11] does that mean we have to stick with the current design

[1:16:15] or can we still make changes to the design?

[1:16:19] Because I know a lot of residents have voiced their ideas

[1:16:23] for different designs.

[1:16:24] I know the man-to-ray competitive swimmers want a competitive pool, Olympic size, which Elder Park doesn't have.

[1:16:32] I know a lot of the younger, the families with younger children and the senior citizens, they want a warmer pool, whereas the competitive swimmers, they have to have a colder temperature pool.

[1:16:44] And then also we heard some desire for a splash pad as well.

[1:16:48] So if we do a historical designation, we will still be able to entertain all of these requests.

[1:16:52] or will it have to stay exactly the same design?

[1:17:02] Again, Mr. Mayor, members of the council, sorry,

[1:17:03] we don't want to get too far off topic,

[1:17:05] because we're on the grant topic, so I'll address quickly.

[1:17:08] So the historical designation, again,

[1:17:10] it's preservation of the historical site

[1:17:13] to its original condition, right?

[1:17:16] That's usually in general.

[1:17:18] What the historical designation does is preservation,

[1:17:21] so hope that answers your question,

[1:17:23] but we don't want to get too far into it, yes.

[1:17:27] Okay, let me just kind of get some facts out since we're on this subject.

[1:17:32] And these are all stuff that we've heard now since April.

[1:17:36] This has been an issue since 2015, 2017, 2019.

[1:17:42] Where's the pool?

[1:17:42] Why didn't it get built?

[1:17:44] Again, that was way before this group here.

[1:17:48] And I want to thank the audience for coming out and speaking about this.

[1:17:51] Because I was not here to listen to it in 15, 17, 19, no, 21.

[1:17:56] But I've been here since April, and we've done something about it.

[1:18:00] We've got at least a couple of discussions moving forward, and that's where we have this item here for discussion.

[1:18:09] And if I, I think we've been applying for this, right, Robert?

[1:18:13] In terms of the last few years, we've applied every time this has come up.

[1:18:16] The level we've applied for other grants, and the last time we applied for this grant was in 2016.

[1:18:21] We applied for different grants in 2019, which are actually a little bit less competitive for this type of project.

[1:18:30] And then we applied in 2019, 2021.

[1:18:32] We're waiting on the next cycle for that grant.

[1:18:36] Unfortunately, they haven't released that cycle yet.

[1:18:38] But as soon as they do, best believe we'll be applying for that one as well.

[1:18:43] And then I heard a speaker mention about a couple of ideas, which I think are their ideas.

[1:18:48] There are ideas, but let me just kind of give some background on this.

[1:18:52] The California Development Block Grant, or is it California, or is it community block

[1:18:59] grant?

[1:19:00] That's a federal grant based on what we know about what's going on with the federal government

[1:19:04] and local cities.

[1:19:06] Good luck applying.

[1:19:08] But that's only a couple hundred thousand, so we'll even look into that, but I don't think

[1:19:13] that's even a match here.

[1:19:15] AUSD, as I remember correctly, they pledged $100,000 back a few years ago.

[1:19:22] Hopefully they'll keep that $100,000 to pledge.

[1:19:25] But we're going to work with the school board members as well as the superintendent to say

[1:19:30] what more they can add to help us finance this pool.

[1:19:34] I think we talked about general fund.

[1:19:38] You know what, I look at the audience here, I'm thinking general fund.

[1:19:43] The next item that's going to come up, it's going to be about a $3.50

[1:19:48] call it tax or additional tax to the refuse fee and we're going to have that discussion.

[1:20:00] So, I don't know, we're going to get money out of the general fund.

[1:20:04] Question will follow up separately, but looks like SGVPub is starting a fundraising.

[1:20:09] There was a Facebook page that started fundraising that's figured out we'll have a discussion figure out how much that money has been raised

[1:20:16] So we can kind of get this process going

[1:20:20] Yeah, yeah, absolutely I've I've already reached out to one of the members and looking forward to speaking with them and learning more

[1:20:26] About the organization and their goals and and how we work together again even if we get the six million

[1:20:32] We still have to come up with six million and then we have to fundraise

[1:20:36] My recollection of the pool cost is way more than the 12, probably way more than the 15, so there's gonna be a lot of work done here, which, you know, we're working on it.

[1:20:49] We're glad you guys are here seeing late nights with us to figure it out, but whilst we're working on it during the day, that's staff time.

[1:20:55] So, actually, I have a point.

[1:20:58] One more comment.

[1:20:59] Regarding the application.

[1:21:00] So, given that, because we already have a poll elder park,

[1:21:06] how does that, I guess, influence impact the application?

[1:21:11] In other words, that's the state park would say, well, you already have a poll.

[1:21:15] I know again, so-

[1:21:16] So, one of the state parks, so I'm just going to vote with that.

[1:21:18] Yeah, so that's one of the questions I did ask because, you know,

[1:21:21] part of the application can sometimes be unmet need, but

[1:21:24] But I did explain, and what we will explain in the narrative is that George Alder pull is also in dire need.

[1:21:30] And so the essential, if we were to get this grant, we'd be looking at, by the time the Barnes Park pool was built, we would be closing George Alder pull.

[1:21:42] And so essentially the community would be left with one good pull.

[1:21:47] Okay, so we're basically utilizing our narrative to let them know that there's community is in need of one good pull.

[1:21:55] And that's something we have to include in the package that we submit.

[1:21:58] Yeah, that'll be included in the narrative to help us score higher as well.

[1:22:02] I see.

[1:22:03] And I'm curious again, we all know that this is a partial match, but I'm just curious.

[1:22:12] I don't know if we're still working on the application, but I really don't have a design yet, but nonetheless, I mean, I'm just curious, did they give any advice as far as, like, are they going to look at the over cost they, wow, that's a lot, or is there, do we need to also impact it in a way that also looks financially viable for, what does that also add points to the application?

[1:22:36] The city does have to commit to basically funding the entire project.

[1:22:41] So outside of the 6 million, we're committing to being able to seek whatever funding needed to complete the project.

[1:22:50] But nonetheless, but do they require that we provide an estimate of what our project, okay?

[1:22:55] So we, yeah, in which we'll be over the requested amount, yes.

[1:23:01] Just really quick on the when would we hear back about the grant if we in terms of when the they say six six months from from August.

[1:23:11] So I I respectfully say early 2026 because if you are applied for a grant sometimes that pushes a little longer for review depending on how many applications they receive.

[1:23:22] So I would say we expect to hear sometime February March of next year.

[1:23:31] I have a question. I have a follow-up question. Again, so, this calendar, will we be in the application or will we be given up this?

[1:23:43] In other words, it's like, you know, it's month ones, received submitted, month two, under review.

[1:23:49] I'm just, is there a calendar? And the reason I ask is because I think it'd be helpful if we knew. And again, as I mentioned earlier,

[1:23:55] You know that I have you shut to our some member in state centers office and I feel like, you know, if there's any

[1:24:01] Time if perhaps we should in lesser aid to push it through

[1:24:04] You know, it will be helpful for us to know where they are where we are in the process in this application

[1:24:10] Yeah, I'll take I'll take a closer look

[1:24:11] But I do recall from previous applications. There is some updates throughout the prior review process

[1:24:18] And so as it gets closer to the end if you are going to potentially be awarded and I say potentially because

[1:24:25] Because we've also had this happen where we had grant representatives come out to visit

[1:24:30] the site.

[1:24:31] Okay.

[1:24:31] And so of course you start feeling very optimistic and kind of good about you think you're

[1:24:36] going to get there's a high potential you're going to get the grant and then you know, someone

[1:24:41] else gets it.

[1:24:44] So kind of curiosity, because this is moving from department city parks is the application process

[1:24:50] That's that online it's all yeah, it's all online I see yeah

[1:24:55] We when we get to the date where they're coming out to visit make sure you let us know

[1:24:59] We'll make sure we take them to the best in some in the in town

[1:25:05] I'll go ahead and make a motion to approve item 9G

[1:25:08] Did you did you really make the motion? I'll make the second okay, so

[1:25:13] Pro Temyang with the motion and second fly councilmember Wang

[1:25:19] Please take a vote.

[1:25:23] I approve unanimously.

[1:25:25] I'll just,

[1:25:28] I just thought there's a volunteer to drive the, the evaluators around as well, so I'm looking at the answer.

[1:25:40] All right, let's go up to public hearing.

[1:25:43] Do I open public hearing now?

[1:25:49] Yeah, I'm going to open up public hearing.

[1:25:52] This is item 10a.

[1:25:56] Do you have, we have speakers?

[1:25:58] Yes, we have speakers.

[1:25:59] first speaker, Vanessa Young.

[1:26:03] Hello, everybody. I'm so sorry my English is broken because

[1:26:10] I still so surprised. Here we have folks quietly walk out, please, I mean there's still

[1:26:14] a count for me going on, please walk out quietly, please. I don't know, we take like 30 seconds

[1:26:19] and let people walk out before we start her time. I don't care, I have a sore throat.

[1:26:25] No, we can't hear if there's a problem.

[1:26:28] Do we have folks walk out quietly please?

[1:26:32] I was so surprised because in the city, nobody

[1:26:39] knows Chinese in English, in Spanish.

[1:26:45] Before I went to the Rosemite Hillary,

[1:26:48] they have Vietnamese, Chinese, and Spanish.

[1:26:53] but yeah, today I'm very surprised. In our city suppose we have at least a half people

[1:27:02] is Chinese. I think I don't check a record, yeah. Okay. I think 30% is finished, right?

[1:27:11] Okay. My problem is, let me... My problem is, Monchipa is not the Inquist-Galach 3, but

[1:27:21] but the length of the maintenance and additional to many facilities.

[1:27:25] First, they are not a pick up a pick up call, so instead of making new call.

[1:27:35] And they withdraw the tennis call to make the pick up call.

[1:27:41] Second, the ride on the call are always dim, while Rosemite, Temple City, and

[1:28:16] day before they close at Friday, but right now they set the day, they only set the day and

[1:28:24] Sunday no more. Okay, I don't know why because Saturday, Sunday is very important for our

[1:28:31] family, but they close at Sunday. Yeah, okay. It's our city board that rules me,

[1:28:45] and

[1:28:45] business profit test goal. Beside the cost goal, we have a free hotel and a lot of restaurant

[1:28:52] and prosa. So, where's the money? We should... So, why should I pay the more for trust if our

[1:28:59] facility costs less money compared to facility in our other city? Okay. So, I think we should

[1:29:11] We need to set up a resident council to care about our city because nobody to monitor our money, yeah, our city's money, yeah.

[1:29:20] So, yeah, if somebody can maybe we need to make up, we need to set up a resident council to care about city.

[1:29:29] Okay.

[1:29:32] Yeah. Okay. Let me ice. I think the Chinese is.

[1:29:59] Thank you very much.

[1:30:00] 此事你們幕後在經營,我們不知道的。所以,如果說你們沒有錢,那誰在說話?對,錢在錢去哪裡了?Costco,the test是多少?Costco, Home Depot,還有Hikata Center, something?

[1:30:50] about residential council

[1:30:51] So it's the equivalent of community commission

[1:30:55] We have 11 volunteer community commission within the city

[1:31:00] Robert or Soma, can you please identify her and talk to her, make her one our council volunteers

[1:31:05] So you can help

[1:31:07] work with the city in terms of what needs to be planning and what needs to be done

[1:31:11] Okay, sorry. That's the council is anyone to vote

[1:31:16] 11 is volunteer is

[1:31:48] 不是是不是

[1:31:49] 我們

[1:31:49] kind of question on process

[1:31:52] Do we have interpreters available tonight?

[1:31:56] The Request must be made in advance

[1:31:58] There was no request made in advance

[1:32:00] in order for us to schedule and coordinate the translators

[1:32:04] Are there I mean just based off of our first speaker there

[1:32:08] I don't know if there are any speakers

[1:32:10] that have put in requests to speak tonight

[1:32:12] already on this item that would like to have

[1:32:14] or need interpreters

[1:32:16] I think that's something maybe we can use

[1:32:17] Yes, there's one more

[1:33:10] 我們有反應的,就是要早一點告訴我們,我們才可以準備好,

[1:33:17] 我們不是每一次都有反應的,也不是每一次都有要求

[1:33:20] OK,

[1:33:34] OK, we're going to go to the next speaker. We can do that on the side. Go to the next speaker.

[1:33:41] Prior to that, I just wanted to inform you there was a request for the staff report prior to public comment.

[1:33:47] Can we do the staff report?

[1:33:50] Yeah, let's do the staff report first. And do we have any speakers?

[1:33:54] 11.

[1:33:55] 11, OK, all right, let's do staff report first then.

[1:33:58] Good

[1:34:03] evening, Mayor Mayor Pro-Tam and members of the City Council,

[1:34:06] Sochi-Ti-Ban Public Works Manager.

[1:34:08] The item before you is consideration of franchise fee rates for our solid weight services.

[1:34:17] At the May 7th City Council meeting,

[1:34:19] City Council directed staff to initiate the proposition due a team process

[1:34:23] and to set a public hearing to consider solid waste adjustments.

[1:34:28] The rate changes are a result of updated franchise fees for solid weight services.

[1:34:32] City completed a study to identify costs that may be recovered through the franchise fees to sustain the city's refuse enterprise.

[1:34:41] The franchise fees study looked at different costs that could be recovered by the city.

[1:34:47] These costs include city costs for the management and administration of the agreements,

[1:34:52] charges for the use of the public right of way, and costs associated with pavement impacts.

[1:34:57] since the may 7th council meeting and the proposed rate adjustments, there has been a new case law that associated with pavement impacts, therefore the costs that were originally included for pavement impacts are excluded from the proposed rates tonight.

[1:35:14] That results in lower rates than what we had originally presented at the may 7th meeting and also included in the original protest ballots that were milled out.

[1:35:24] 主

[1:35:30] 持人ю睇下

[1:35:58] July 3rd Issues of the Monterrey Park Press Newspaper

[1:36:03] Based on the majority protest process, the city would need to have received over 8,000 valid protests to reject the proposed rate adjustments.

[1:36:11] As of our latest count prior to this council meeting, the city had received 1,455 mailings.

[1:36:19] Since the majority protests needed was not reached, if passed, the updated rates would become effective September 1st, 2025.

[1:36:30] As mentioned, the rates considered tonight exclude costs associated with pavement impacts.

[1:36:35] Based on the franchise fees of 11.97%, rate adjustments would result in approximately

[1:36:42] a $4.70 increase for the standards service level for residential customers, setting

[1:36:48] the 96-gallon 3-card system monthly rate to $34.69.

[1:36:54] 這次提到的整個回到的 mortgage will also include

[1:36:57] annual consumer price index increase of

[1:36:59] 3.3%, which is already incorporated in the city's

[1:37:03] franchise agreement with haulers.

[1:37:05] The tables in this slide include the change in rates for

[1:37:09] all residential cart service, which are standard service

[1:37:13] level is the 96 gallon for trash recycling and

[1:37:17] organics and also provides rates for multi-family

[1:37:20] 任務司員未充任

[1:37:28] 由wangyretu 握扮演示及保

[1:37:46] 守員

[1:37:46] 兩位工作人員指示

[1:37:52] 長官請您上次提交

[1:37:58] 請您上次提交

[1:38:00] 向您與其他電視及電影

[1:38:01] 所以我的意思是

[1:38:04] 這次的確實是

[1:38:06] 我剛才聽到的

[1:38:09] 前提的

[1:38:10] 提到

[1:38:11] 是十分高的

[1:38:13] 我希望

[1:38:17] 提到

[1:38:19] 這次的

[1:38:20] 提到

[1:38:20] 這次的

[1:38:21] 提到

[1:38:22] 這次的

[1:38:23] 提到

[1:38:23] 這次的

[1:38:28] 提到

[1:38:28] 這次的

[1:38:28] 提到

[1:38:30] 這次的

[1:38:31] 是第一次開動的總統公司

[1:38:33] 結束到WRE

[1:38:40] 這個情況

[1:38:44] 我當了大量的公司

[1:38:51] 收到$35.3

[1:38:55] 充錢

[1:38:55] 從1月28日

[1:38:58] 從我所說的從 August 去 September $35 起床

[1:39:06] 那是 24% 起床

[1:39:11] 在 today's proposed 18% 起床

[1:39:16] 那 two the residents were looking at from within one year

[1:39:22] it went from 24% increase to 42% increase for the next this coming year

[1:39:31] I do have I brought with me the actual bills to prove my numbers

[1:39:36] OK,

[1:39:38] And I just think this is,

[1:39:40] this is a preposterous for a trash service

[1:39:45] to be increased 42%.

[1:39:48] Within a 12 month period,

[1:39:50] I urge the council members to vote this down.

[1:39:55] And just heard the number of proposed objection was not met.

[1:40:00] 但是,那 doesn't mean the majority of people is not feeling the hurt.

[1:40:07] I think I'm

[1:40:13] part of the silent majority,

[1:40:15] as you can hear from the audience tonight.

[1:40:20] Everybody is feeling the hurt.

[1:40:22] 41% in 12 months is ludicrous.

[1:40:27] And I wish the City Council take consideration of your citizens financial ability.

[1:40:53] 謝謝

[1:41:02] Chair Chair 隨您提供移動問題

[1:41:06] Chair Chair 臺灣

[1:41:12] 蔡 Why

[1:41:14] 二

[1:41:25] And probably

[1:41:26] We are gonna say the same thing that some other people

[1:41:28] have said, but I'll try and say it a little differently.

[1:41:31] I've lived in Monterey Park for close to 12 years.

[1:41:36] At that time, I think I was paying 22 dollars a month for the

[1:41:40] service, the Rathans.

[1:41:41] And that was over about a 10-year period.

[1:41:44] I understand your hands are tied with what Sacramento does.

[1:41:48] 所以有些人都要有可能的決策

[1:41:50] 由outsin 課案

[1:41:55] 致議人員發出的會議

[1:41:56] 與一些人的接觸

[1:41:58] 並作出會議可能會有用

[1:42:05] 但有7個月

[1:42:07] 你打算很多預期

[1:42:09] 你當時總控制難起來

[1:42:11] 會將於$29.99時

[1:42:13] 那你 change the bill which is fine, I understand that as well.

[1:42:20] But now what ten months into the mitigating contact

[1:42:24] from September of last year,

[1:42:26] you want to raise it another 20%.

[1:42:30] All the years that I was in business,

[1:42:32] every time I signed a contract with a client,

[1:42:35] I never went back in six months, ten months,

[1:42:38] or one year, and changed and asked for any more money.

[1:42:41] 我沒懂

[1:42:42] 因為我看經過我能享受

[1:42:45] 為我能做的

[1:42:50] 比如那一些人

[1:42:52] 我說

[1:42:53] 這件事

[1:42:54] 那不是

[1:42:54] 用了我的

[1:42:54] 願意

[1:42:54] 真的

[1:42:55] 對

[1:42:56] 我希望

[1:42:57] 有一點

[1:42:58] 再見

[1:42:58] 把 ejectors 構成 launchビ

[1:43:03] I don't like the fact that

[1:43:14] You signed a contract with the company and got rid of the company

[1:43:18] And then tundlements later you want to change it again

[1:43:23] That doesn't make any sense to me

[1:43:25] 那是 all I have to say, but I think the increase is exorbitant.

[1:43:32] I don't think it's necessary.

[1:43:34] I think 29.99 that we're paying now is more than enough for the citizens of Monterey Park.

[1:43:40] Thank you.

[1:43:43] Thank you, Larry.

[1:43:46] Next speaker, Wing Law.

[1:43:54] Good evening.

[1:43:55] Good evening, Mayor, City Council, City Manager.

[1:43:59] 第1位 I want to say is when we have rare disposal change from heaven, we were giving a large chance can, we were charged the highest fee, regardless we had the small one medium or whatever before, for at least 4 months, except some senior citizen they can get a sooner to change it.

[1:44:54] 在最後一段時間,我們有看到的訊息,我們有看到的訊息,

[1:44:58] 所以它是很小的,

[1:45:00] And nothing, what I've heard from that lady there. And a lot of people don't even understand

[1:45:06] what's all about. And I have no idea where the money goes and how it's been. And I think

[1:45:12] we should start over and give people all the detail what we heard and start over and

[1:45:19] see if any more people would propose or object to this change. Thank you.

[1:45:30] next speaker Vivian.

[1:45:45] Hello everyone again, it's me.

[1:45:50] Firstly as the city council members you might be

[1:45:53] aware why have so many people are here today for two topics. Swimming pool and the charge phase

[1:46:00] increase. There are everyone here today, there are all the most concerned residents in the Montreal

[1:46:08] part. Even that we're not sitting at your seat but we do care about our city. We do care

[1:46:14] about our children and we care about our city's future too. You know, so I know the people left

[1:46:23] earlier maybe here to about a swing and pool. Can I ask the audience a question here? Can I get

[1:46:33] permission to do that? You can ask. You have five minutes. I want to ask the

[1:46:39] audience, are you all here to against the fee increase? Can you raise your hand

[1:46:46] please?

[1:46:50] I think you can see they are representing majority of the city but

[1:46:55] you know as you mine aware a lot of people are very quiet. I don't even recall I

[1:47:01] receive the proposal. I've never seen that. So even possible, since there's so many people

[1:47:07] here to against the idea, either get extended for another proposal wrong or like send a letter

[1:47:14] again, even you still don't get the $8,000 more than we have no concern. You know, so I mean,

[1:47:22] even we don't care, then you can go for it. So I think we deserve another chance to do it.

[1:47:28] You know, so, and, and, per my understanding, they already mentioned about, uh, about, uh,

[1:47:34] uh, Cheshkin company. We just get to give them the contract. They granted, they was granted

[1:47:39] the contract for just about a year or two. And I think the contract term is more than that.

[1:47:47] Even that is the case. And when they negotiate the contract, they must already have a negotiate

[1:47:52] the price and everything in the contract.

[1:47:55] How can they increase the price in such a short time?

[1:47:59] I don't get it.

[1:48:00] So as a city, I think we should reveal the contract

[1:48:03] and try to find the local about it.

[1:48:07] And they already promised for the contract term,

[1:48:09] they should be honored.

[1:48:14] So and then for future.

[1:48:17] So I mean, we always have this kind of contracts going on

[1:48:21] on every other couple of years.

[1:48:23] So I suggest the City Council should work with the City managers and

[1:48:28] occurs together and try to get a term good for those years.

[1:48:33] We don't want that kind of increase doing in between.

[1:48:37] After they get the contract and they're coming out, say, oh, we need more money.

[1:48:41] That's not right.

[1:48:43] And this is not the way to do business, too, Ray.

[1:48:45] So I think as a county like the city, you know, we again, so we can want you to help the city's residents to get the best for the city.

[1:48:57] Thank you so much.

[1:49:02] Thank you. I thought you were going to ask two questions, but you only asked one.

[1:49:06] Okay.

[1:49:07] Next speaker.

[1:49:11] That's what I thought.

[1:49:15] Sorry. I was thinking about what is that called?

[1:49:25] The protest about it. So can like can the city send a

[1:49:31] protest ballot or make that available at the city court office or any office so we can get it?

[1:49:39] I'm not sure if she has it right now, most likely maybe not, right? So even if she has it

[1:49:46] that would be nice then we can get a copy.

[1:49:49] So I believe every one of you here,

[1:49:51] even we work together,

[1:49:53] everyone makes some copies to collect those signatures,

[1:49:56] we should be able to do it.

[1:49:58] I hope the POTES ballot has very clear instructions

[1:50:02] how to sign and what is the qualified signature

[1:50:05] and something those information should be

[1:50:07] in the POTES ballot rate.

[1:50:11] Should be right.

[1:50:12] Thank you.

[1:50:13] Yeah, thank you.

[1:50:16] Next speaker, Teresa.

[1:51:01] Prior to, Teresa, there was after it, who has considered her time to Teresa, so she has

[1:51:07] seven minutes.

[1:51:08] Thank you.

[1:51:09] And thank you, City Council members.

[1:51:11] First of all, I want to thank the speaker Vivian, I believe that's her name, ma'am.

[1:51:15] You know, there's a lot of confusion about this protest vote because people think that it's

[1:51:19] aware of that's asking for this additional increase, and it's not.

[1:51:23] It's the city that wants additional funding.

[1:51:26] None of this money is going to go to where.

[1:51:28] So number one, number two, I am one of those that misplaced my ballot.

[1:51:34] So I called the city, spoke to the clerk and I requested a ballot.

[1:51:38] And they told me one was not available.

[1:51:41] I said, so what do I do if I misplaced it and they're like, I don't know.

[1:51:45] So I know other folks also lost their ballots and they called the city.

[1:51:50] And the reason I bring this up is because there's a resolution that was mentioned, resolution 11647,

[1:52:02] that outlines what you need to do for a Prop 218 procedure.

[1:52:06] And specifically on there, it says Section 7F, in the event a property owner loses or misplaces a protest ballot.

[1:52:16] But upon request by the property owner, the city will provide a replacement protest ballot.

[1:52:22] I never got a replacement one.

[1:52:24] No one did.

[1:52:26] And said what they told us is to go to the previous agenda on May, whatever it was that you,

[1:52:33] May 6th, I think it was, and go to page 541 because the protest ballot is there.

[1:52:39] So we did, and a bunch of us started circulating it until one of my neighbors said, what is this?

[1:52:44] Because on that ballot, which was on your main meeting, it doesn't talk about trash, it

[1:52:54] talks about water rates, somebody wasn't paying attention, and it specifically says protest

[1:53:00] should contain the following information.

[1:53:02] Property assessors parcel number two, your water account number three, whether you are

[1:53:11] the owner or tenant that is bill directly by the city for. And this is why I want it

[1:53:17] to look really closely for a statement that you are protesting the water rate

[1:53:23] adjustments. That's what the city clerk directed us to and that's what was being

[1:53:29] circulated. So there is mass confusion. And if you want to be known as a council

[1:53:35] that passed a prop to 18, this is not being transparent.

[1:53:41] And these protests ballots should be provided to us.

[1:53:44] This is something important because it's extended a lot of money.

[1:53:50] I also want to talk about, I don't know if you were able to listen to the news today, but

[1:53:55] Governor Newsom was talking about how these ICE rates have caused a tremendous financial

[1:54:01] impact, not only to businesses, but also to residents.

[1:54:07] As you know, many people are now working from home.

[1:54:10] They are not going grocery shopping.

[1:54:14] They are not tending to their medical needs, et cetera, et cetera, because they're afraid

[1:54:19] of these ice rates.

[1:54:21] It's just the way it is right now, unfortunately.

[1:54:25] I spoke to the managers at our home depot.

[1:54:30] I said, how is this affecting you?

[1:54:31] First of all, they said the tariffs took a big toll on their sales

[1:54:37] because prices escalated as we all know.

[1:54:41] But now people are afraid to go shopping.

[1:54:44] So that means people are watching their pennies.

[1:54:49] Look, I understand that there may be a need to increase this.

[1:54:52] but you also have to understand there needs to be a time

[1:54:55] and a place for it.

[1:54:56] As a previous speaker mentioned,

[1:54:59] wanted to put a pin on it or postpone it,

[1:55:02] postpone it to maybe October, you know,

[1:55:06] so that you can make the decision there based

[1:55:09] on the economic reasons.

[1:55:12] But also, more so if you want to talk about transparency,

[1:55:16] this wasn't transparent.

[1:55:18] All right, this caused so much chaos and convolution.

[1:55:23] So, I just want to remind you all, you are by the people for the people.

[1:55:30] And Henry, Council Member Low, you've always been one that advocates for people and when

[1:55:36] there's a wrong, you make it right.

[1:55:38] Perhaps this was an inadvertent wrong?

[1:55:41] City clerk didn't know that there was this language in here, but it happened.

[1:55:45] And it caused confusion.

[1:55:46] So please, I am asking you to do what is right today.

[1:55:51] And if you are going to approve this, well, first of all, you don't have to approve it.

[1:55:56] If they received 8,000 votes, that means you must deny it.

[1:56:01] You must.

[1:56:02] The threshold isn't there, but you can still say no.

[1:56:06] You can still modify what staff proposed, or proposing no, but 17 or whatever the percentage

[1:56:11] is.

[1:56:12] You can say 5%.

[1:56:14] You can say let's do it for five years and at the end of five years, bring it back.

[1:56:18] You, the four council members, and as I recall, it takes four votes to pass this, if my

[1:56:25] memory serves me correct, but you, four, have the ability to tailor something here that

[1:56:31] really helps the businesses and helps the residents.

[1:56:35] So, I hope you all will do what we elected you to do, and you will be for the people.

[1:56:43] Thank you.

[1:56:45] Thank you.

[1:56:50] Next speaker, John Lennon.

[1:56:57] Thank you for sticking out, John.

[1:56:58] You went from first to last.

[1:57:08] Mayor, City Council, it's a privilege to be able to speak tonight with some thoughts.

[1:57:16] And speaking about this garbage, I think if we look at the big picture, there's a lot of people that don't want any raises in cost.

[1:57:38] And if you look at your constituency, they're not political either.

[1:57:43] They're not going to come out to City Council to listen or to speak.

[1:57:51] They're not that kind of people here in Monterey Park.

[1:57:55] But you can be sure that most of them are not very pleased with a rate hike, even if it's a little one like where it says, because it's not that high.

[1:58:06] But if you think about all the people that are going to have to pay this rate hike, it's a lot.

[1:58:13] But then why rate hike so soon?

[1:58:16] Don't let wear pull the wool over your eyes because it's not like we have to listen to them.

[1:58:24] We can go back to Athens.

[1:58:25] So we understand, though, that we have to have three trash bins.

[1:58:31] and I can guarantee it's not easy to fill up those three trash bins anymore.

[1:58:36] It was easy to fill up two but three?

[1:58:40] We have to pay for three and it's not easy to fill up three.

[1:58:44] So like we're trying our best is all I can say and I'm sure

[1:58:50] Monary Park is trying to do their best to comply as well.

[1:58:54] So you can hear how the people do feel and I hope you can understand

[1:58:59] and that it's not a necessity, and I hope that we can really put it off to some later point in time, just not right away.

[1:59:13] This doesn't make sense right away, and I think that's what everyone is complaining about.

[1:59:18] Thank you.

[1:59:19] Thank you, Josh.

[1:59:23] Next speaker is Sen-Ching.

[1:59:27] Can you repeat the name again?

[1:59:30] Sen-Ching?

[1:59:33] I'm going to get a chance later up here so that because it's being recorded, you can just

[1:59:46] There's a very big presence.

[1:59:52] I've been talking about it a lot.

[1:59:55] You said you'd like to talk about it and you'll find it in English.

[1:59:57] It's a little bit of a chance if you can.

[1:59:58] We'll give a matching time.

[1:59:59] So

[2:00:00] Okay, so go everything, everyone. I live in Mongolia Park 30 years, 30 years, and then my

[2:00:10] business is two 30 years in Mongolia Park. I do the business different, okay? Now what

[2:00:18] Today, I have three questions.

[2:00:21] Three questions, let everybody know.

[2:00:25] First question,

[2:00:31] the trust fee increased so quickly,

[2:00:43] it's a 10 years contract.

[2:00:45] Seven years contract, but increased in 10 months,

[2:00:48] that's not reasonable, it's not right.

[2:00:50] I said four months.

[2:00:51] Four months?

[2:00:52] But actually, I can't.

[2:00:54] I can't.

[2:00:56] Okay.

[2:00:57] It's actually one year.

[2:00:58] If I rent a house to someone else,

[2:01:16] I cannot increase the rentals so quickly

[2:01:18] in such a short time,

[2:01:23] and about five percent.

[2:01:25] We get the point, okay?

[2:01:28] Yes.

[2:01:29] Why does this charge company can increase such kind of unreasonable increase?

[2:01:47] That's not reasonable at all.

[2:01:50] Okay, some solar company meet the deal 20 years, like every year up to 2.5 percent, right?

[2:02:03] Everybody know, solar company meet the 20 years, least, every year up to 2.5 percent, side

[2:02:14] Why? This trust company and Mochua City Hall side of the country, ten years, how many

[2:02:22] up to maybe ten percent, fifty percent? Right? Yeah, very, very no good, this country.

[2:02:31] Okay. My company. Okay. Okay. I come to the second one. The water, very, very expensive.

[2:03:02] of. Okay. I have for other house, my family, and I have for other house, my family,

[2:03:09] San Gabriel, temple city, some, same, every month you study tune, those temple city pay $99.

[2:03:20] San Gabriel pay $89.

[2:03:23] Why multiple pay? How many, I taught you, 240 per month?

[2:03:39] Very, very, very, it's a bench for, yeah, 247.32, this angle one, okay.

[2:03:49] Now, I do the business, business, it like a mantra park.

[2:03:54] Hello, Smith.

[2:03:56] San Gabriel.

[2:03:57] Ahemba.

[2:03:59] Temple City.

[2:04:00] I come to see the heart of Buddha for me for the electrical.

[2:04:04] It is equal.

[2:04:06] Upgrade panel.

[2:04:08] Everybody knows.

[2:04:09] Upgrade panel.

[2:04:11] Okay.

[2:04:11] I later know the price.

[2:04:13] Same.

[2:04:14] Upgrade panel.

[2:04:16] Install the EV charge.

[2:04:20] Okay.

[2:04:22] Let's meet 180.

[2:04:25] Like a hamburger, 190.

[2:04:29] Okay.

[2:04:31] Like a...

[2:05:11] the lady shifts to me. I say, why you're more than

[2:05:16] charged 500 to 20? This area of the city charged

[2:05:20] like 180 to 100 to 110. Why your city charged

[2:05:26] to 500 to 20? Double double. Why? I say, maybe you

[2:05:33] So, Sabri Dappu to Arta City, welcome.

[2:05:37] I mean, your heart is very different from other city people.

[2:05:41] Gao Yibai, ma.

[2:05:43] I went,是不是, oh, sorry.

[2:05:47] He asked if the martial arts city, Sabri,

[2:05:50] is higher than other cities.

[2:05:52] Why did I charge so much Dappu?

[2:05:55] Yeah, everyone, water Dappu,

[2:05:58] put Dappu, me Dappu, okay.

[2:06:00] I don't know, maybe you see this, the mayor has $1,000 to $1,000?

[2:06:12] No, okay, why are you charging the fee?

[2:06:16] It's everywhere, double.

[2:06:20] I have a question.

[2:06:22] I have three questions.

[2:06:26] Okay.

[2:06:30] I will ask the question.

[2:06:33] I will ask the question.

[2:06:34] I don't know.

[2:06:35] One of the questions that I have.

[2:06:38] This is a very clear answer.

[2:06:41] This is a very clear answer.

[2:06:43] Then, I want to ask you all.

[2:06:45] You are not used to it.

[2:06:49] That's not the answer.

[2:06:51] Garry, Arantin.

[2:07:01] So he's not agreed for the city to charge, to increase their strategy.

[2:07:08] Thank you.

[2:07:11] Thank you.

[2:07:12] Next speaker, Chem Kendo.

[2:07:16] This one.

[2:07:24] Hi, good evening.

[2:07:26] I don't agree with the increased rates, because I don't even agree with paying $29,000.

[2:07:31] I have two homes on my property and I don't even use the six cans.

[2:07:37] On top of that, where has been charging me for a third property that doesn't even,

[2:07:42] like a third home that doesn't even exist on my property.

[2:07:45] Like I've been disputing with them since February and they're refusing to refund me for the over charges.

[2:07:51] What kind of business doesn't pay the customer back when they over charge?

[2:07:56] That's their mistake.

[2:07:57] They should validate that they're charging correctly.

[2:08:01] And they make it like I'm the one that made the mistake that I didn't inquire about it on time.

[2:08:07] I feel like I'm being scanned by where I feel like I'm being scanned by the city.

[2:08:12] I go, this is just all ridiculous.

[2:08:14] We shouldn't be paying more for like terrible service.

[2:08:18] They have a customer service line.

[2:08:19] They can't customer service.

[2:08:21] They tell you to send an email.

[2:08:22] Nobody ever responds to the email and I have to make multiple calls.

[2:08:26] And nothing gets resolved, so I don't even understand why you guys are doing business with them.

[2:08:34] Yeah, it's just terrible.

[2:08:37] Thank you.

[2:08:39] We create her information and then we can make sure we get her information if she has a dispute.

[2:08:45] Because maybe you can line her up with one of the managers that we have connections with at where to help resolve that.

[2:08:53] We'll do.

[2:08:55] Next speaker, Lucia Roybal.

[2:08:57] Hello.

[2:09:04] Hi there.

[2:09:06] I'm actually going to shake it up and I'm going to start where I was going to make with my

[2:09:10] ending.

[2:09:12] Proposition to a team passed in 1996 requiring local government to either hold the ballot

[2:09:17] vote or use a protest ballot before increasing property related fees.

[2:09:22] But it wasn't until 2014 that the city of Monterey Park formally adopted this into the municipal

[2:09:27] code by resolution conveniently leaving out the ballot vote option and only including the

[2:09:32] the silent protest method.

[2:09:36] I'm here to express my opposition to the proposed rate increase and

[2:09:40] the process behind it.

[2:09:42] The current setup is designed to benefit council, not its residents.

[2:09:46] The city failed to meet proposition two-eighths to your requirements.

[2:09:50] Prop two-eighths, he requires a clear explanation of how fees are calculated.

[2:09:54] The rate sheet that we received only lists current and proposed rates.

[2:09:58] The polling hearing notice, I brought attachments to, by the way.

[2:10:02] The public hearing notice only says,

[2:10:03] the proposal will be presented to the City Council for approval at a public hearing on July 16th.

[2:10:09] If approved, the proposed rates outlined in this chart included in this notice will become effective

[2:10:14] September 1st. While I'm not clear of the public notice is legally required to be included in today's

[2:10:19] hearing, it would be in good faith to do so. I say it because the mailed notice list conflicting

[2:10:24] rates and information that was in the agenda packet. City must explain factors are driving the

[2:10:30] increased and why the only explanation provided was increased cost of service with no itemized

[2:10:35] breakdown or supporting documents. The notice failed to provide online resources where to find

[2:10:40] information or how to even locate our personal number. And said the public is directed to call

[2:10:45] public works department.

[2:10:48] The proposed rate hike is unjustified. It has not been a full year since

[2:10:53] the service started and both say and where have failed to meet basic service standards. The rollout

[2:10:59] phase was delayed for over two weeks.

[2:11:01] No trust was collected for my street, but either wear or

[2:11:04] Athens for the week of August 26th and the week of September 2nd,

[2:11:09] whereas first pick up was September 12th.

[2:11:12] Others waited longer, yet residents were built for

[2:11:15] August September by where and the city.

[2:11:18] The overlap does not justify missing two weeks of service in charging us twice for it.

[2:11:23] These are not clerical errors, they're billing violations and

[2:11:26] And I request to have a look into a refund to all of those affected.

[2:11:30] We are collected recyclables and organics of the same truck violating state law in their

[2:11:34] own contract.

[2:11:36] I brought pictures.

[2:11:36] I wasn't able to bring a video.

[2:11:41] Why do we pay for three bins if they collect the malt together?

[2:11:45] The truss ones are not equipped with tight fitting lids allowing orders to escape in a truck past

[2:11:50] and create unsanitary conditions violating state law.

[2:11:53] The

[2:11:57] silent ballot format is unreliable and easily overlooked.

[2:12:01] Even when submitted, there is no confirmation, no receipt, audit or public tabulation.

[2:12:07] The outcome is predetermined.

[2:12:09] Before the hearing even started, the staff report already states that staff is recommending

[2:12:14] that the council find that less than 51% protests were submitted.

[2:12:17] This makes the public hearing meaningless.

[2:12:20] other cities, other cities like Sarah Moderen as to the publicly count ballots and provide

[2:12:28] tabulation logs. I submitted various public records request in search for this process

[2:12:33] and none was provided. City documents only say city follows the prop 218 process. There's

[2:12:39] no mention of handling, counting or verifying ballots. There is legal presence for validating

[2:12:44] rate hikes using vague or misleading language and lack of cost disclosure to name a few.

[2:12:50] This isn't about trash rates, it's about the erosion of public trust.

[2:12:54] The city continues to draw on its residents in process and legal language.

[2:12:58] Residents can't possibly attend every public meeting or dissect every agenda.

[2:13:03] We elected you to represent us in IIRS Council to reject this rate increase until compliant

[2:13:09] and transparent processes in place.

[2:13:11] Stop the silent ballot system that only benefits council and give us the option for a real vote

[2:13:16] as allowed by state law.

[2:13:17] Thank you.

[2:13:18] Thank you.

[2:13:25] Next speaker, Serena Chen,

[2:13:47] Mayor and Council, I was not prepared to speak.

[2:13:51] But when I heard something, then I feel that I had to stand up to say something.

[2:13:58] I will see the letter in June.

[2:14:00] In the letter, there was that that we need to 8,000 vote, or in order to pass the against

[2:14:11] the product increase, and I would like to ask, we received more than 1,000 against

[2:14:18] the world. How many supported world have we received so far? You did not issue any support

[2:14:28] vote and only issued against no. I understand that in Monchipark, there is a 26,000 household.

[2:14:36] And I just find out that the 8,000 that we require to pass this increase, I just learned today.

[2:14:44] I already asked my, you know, my labors to participate.

[2:14:49] Then they said, oh, if they said nobody against, I will support that increase.

[2:14:55] Then we are going to win the case anyway.

[2:14:58] So people can't be blind.

[2:14:59] And the...

[2:15:00] So, the silent people, you assume they all support,

[2:15:06] does not fear. And also, I did a study. Under the

[2:15:13] the interletter dimension, they use this increase according to the CPI. In United States,

[2:15:22] the CPI for past five years, only 2022 increased 8%, or the years less than 5%, last year

[2:15:33] is only 2.9% just like the other gentleman said. And I also did a calculation. Right now

[2:15:43] the increase is 18%. I did every year, every year, this year increased 3.5% or 4% or 5% even the

[2:15:59] highest of 5% only by the 4th of the year, 2029 is still under this nut enough for the

[2:16:10] increase. I did the calculation. If we increase 3.5 percent, so for example, I use 27

[2:16:22] three bins. The middle size was three bins as 27 dollars a year, a month right now. But they

[2:16:29] asked for $31 and 83 cents. So I did the calculation. If we increase by 3.5 percent, so the first

[2:16:39] year is only 29, 97. The second year is $30 and 12 cents. The third year is $30 and 41 cents.

[2:16:52] So we are increased by that by the fourth year, still not reached the increase we have now. So I

[2:17:00] don't know what is justification to increase in meeting people, 18%, I don't think any salary people

[2:17:08] can have that increase. And also, as we know, the SSA, but with time in people, the estimate,

[2:17:15] the increase for SSA for 2026 is only 2% for God's sakes. So, how could in the world

[2:17:23] and you ask for increase 18% immediately for five years? That's not fair. I also just learned

[2:17:30] that we've signed a contract for seven years. Now we signed a contract not only for one

[2:17:37] year that we started the country for another five years. So I would like to kind of like

[2:17:43] study all the numbers. I also went through the, the, the, the coastal,

[2:17:49] core and core core, the CBI for the Los Angeles and the high and long beach CBI for last year

[2:17:58] is only 4.2%. How in the whole world can you increase that to 18% immediately?

[2:18:06] And then only for the people, so you know, only 1,000 you will see it, then you decide

[2:18:11] all.

[2:18:12] So the majority is at this, the silence, so they are assuming that they agree with that.

[2:18:17] So I don't think this is fair and then I don't think this is going to respect the resident

[2:18:22] of the Manchu Park people.

[2:18:24] So thank you for here for me.

[2:18:27] Thank you.

[2:18:30] Next speaker, Kathy Balm.

[2:18:45] Good evening, Mayor and Council Member, staff and multiple residents.

[2:18:52] I do have come into May that I work from Detroit for, and I didn't receive any letter at all.

[2:19:00] I don't with the paper from whatever city senate, but I didn't receive any the proposal for the

[2:19:06] paper that for that.

[2:19:08] I download it on internet today because I was on the Monterey Park life.

[2:19:13] A lot of people in my blog, the whole of Hamburg, they don't know.

[2:19:17] And I gave them the information today.

[2:19:21] By the way, 10, 30 today.

[2:19:23] And they don't even know that the new day supports me today either.

[2:19:27] So for me, a lot of information that you get requirement for 8,000 people that to be passed

[2:19:32] the bill, I don't know where you get that number form and how you vote for it.

[2:19:37] Like, if a person in my family for one role or her family,

[2:19:41] that a lot of not clear in the paper,

[2:19:43] and then when we will sit down and look at the paper,

[2:19:47] they will exactly what she say, it will water.

[2:19:50] And then a lot of time that for the homeowner,

[2:19:53] it's concerned for them.

[2:19:55] But for the tenant, they don't care,

[2:19:56] because they don't pay for water.

[2:19:58] So they're not going to respond to those kind of increasements.

[2:20:02] So if you get paid on the residential,

[2:20:05] in there, it's not going to be working out because they're not on the who pay for it.

[2:20:11] They should be increased for the residential who pay for it, who really affected to them.

[2:20:18] Now go back to the where, when I found out that we would switch from 8th-century where we

[2:20:23] were taught that they were too hot, they increased it, that's why we used to Egypt one.

[2:20:28] and the contract will like seven years, so they're changing the wave on us, not even one year

[2:20:35] yet. Also, I don't know if the City Council or any of your staff member even going to work

[2:20:43] and checking their work, see they're working probably or not, because for what I know, on my block,

[2:20:50] the jackhand will be now we follow exactly what

[2:20:54] procedure was sent to us but we have a nasty neighbor and they always show on

[2:21:00] whatever in the trackman they don't even know what color for and we will got the

[2:21:05] yellow tape on our trackman and our track can be picked up until next week because of

[2:21:11] somebody else put on the track and when I stop the driver and they told us that

[2:21:17] We cannot sit down there on there just to garden our track can and before eight and don't require to do that

[2:21:24] We just told track their job to select it collected and they are doing their own work for whatever item

[2:21:31] Supports to be we don't have to do the work for them and then now they get increased the money just for not doing their job

[2:21:37] We did it so why didn't create a job?

[2:21:42] Also if you noted that the track can

[2:21:46] that big container. We on on a hammer. If penny low, you are my counsel. If you ever

[2:21:53] job by there, get me to the resident over there, you will see. The truck can every Wednesday,

[2:21:58] they put the same plate. And then the truck, the who whip the truth, they won't be able to.

[2:22:05] That location for month and month, not big whip and clean. We have to do that ourselves. We have

[2:22:13] to go out there and clean it just because there are arrows to put the track

[2:22:17] hand, the same spot every single day, and they put the track hand through

[2:22:21] early before 12. So the track hand for women from eight and not even go through

[2:22:27] yet. So that that whole block that for the track hand

[2:22:31] were in front of the house, it dirty, it nasty, it smelly because that reason. So a lot

[2:22:38] We don't have time. Our city are the staff. It failed for not supervising their work when you are selecting the new company due to part to supervising them.

[2:22:49] See how they do the good or not. We don't want to change in the perfect company that will do the good job to the really bad server that we have to pay and now they increase from that.

[2:22:59] Thank you very much.

[2:23:01] Thank you.

[2:23:02] Thank you.

[2:23:02] This is me, Andrew.

[2:23:02] Can we get the constituent information and especially if there is issues about the

[2:23:08] where staff being sloppy in collecting the refuse?

[2:23:13] Yes, Mr. Mayor, members of the council.

[2:23:15] I'll confirm that we have the contact information.

[2:23:18] Yes, okay.

[2:23:19] Looks like we have the contact information so we can follow up with that, isn't it?

[2:23:25] In addition to the speakers, we also receive two written communications.

[2:23:29] One is from Alinda Bell who writes regarding the same concerns regarding the increase exceeding the CPI.

[2:23:39] She is extremely concerned why is it five to six times larger than anticipated by the city's contract.

[2:23:47] The citizens of Monterey Park deserve to know why the increase is so much larger than anticipated.

[2:23:52] How much of the shortfall is due to an unanticipated cost by the city and why and how much of the increases being requested by the contractor franchisee and why.

[2:24:05] She'd also like to know what assurances will be provided that no further refuse service rate increases may be sought for and in the second through 5th years of service as provided by the city's contract.

[2:24:19] She signs off respectfully.

[2:24:21] In addition to Miss Bell, there was another written communication from Stuart Hiromi Phillips.

[2:24:27] He was regarding serious concerns, regarding the notice of the public caring for proposed

[2:24:34] refuse rate adjustments.

[2:24:36] He spoke to several residents and it appears that many have not received this notice, raising

[2:24:41] questions about proper distribution of the notice.

[2:24:45] Proposition to 18 mandates of 45-day review period yet he states that he received a ballot

[2:24:53] only 16 days ago on June 25th, which is insufficient notice.

[2:24:59] This lack of transparency and inadequate time to organize a majority protest required

[2:25:05] to reject the proposal's undermines public trust and due process.

[2:25:09] He urges you to investigate the distribution process, extend the review period to comply

[2:25:16] with Proposition 218 and ensure all affected property owners receive proper notice.

[2:25:21] Please address this matter urgently before this hearing.

[2:25:26] No other comments?

[2:25:28] Thank you, Madam Clerk.

[2:25:29] Mr. Mayor.

[2:25:33] Mr. Mayor.

[2:25:34] Go ahead and add your comment if you have a quick one.

[2:25:38] It's really quick and it was brought up in the former agenda item D with the general fund

[2:25:44] in the pool.

[2:25:45] I believe you said something about the rate increase that could probably fund the pool

[2:25:50] and the general fund.

[2:25:51] Isn't that strictly prohibited to use rate hikes from these kind of utilities for the general

[2:25:57] fund?

[2:25:58] I don't think that was brought up, but it'd be good to not mislead the public.

[2:26:03] Okay.

[2:26:05] Mr. Mayor and members of the council, I just wanted to follow up.

[2:26:08] Staff is able to pull up this slide if you're interested in seeing the council member

[2:26:14] loads requests to see the, I believe it was the right differences when we were rewarding

[2:26:19] the contract to wear.

[2:26:21] Is that sprout up, if I can ask, if we can ask, let me do this.

[2:26:24] So let me lead this discussion because we can be here on that if we don't, if you do go

[2:26:28] on that.

[2:26:28] Mr. Chair, do you want to close the public here?

[2:26:29] Yeah, let me close the public hearing.

[2:26:34] Okay, so let me kind of just throw out, I heard a lot of things, and that's great.

[2:26:39] That means you guys are involved.

[2:26:41] Let me just kind of level set here, big picture level standpoint, and then we can have more

[2:26:46] discussion on this.

[2:26:46] Okay, first one is about proposition 218, the question is about that process.

[2:26:52] The second one is the background on how we got into the work contract, which is the

[2:26:58] Athens contract, the third one, let me just share with you some of the cost from the other city.

[2:27:03] So you have an idea of where we are.

[2:27:04] And then the fourth one, that $35, I'm around it to $35.

[2:27:11] I know it's $34, $60, $69, but for my sick, let's run that to $35 versus $30.

[2:27:18] First one, let me ask, let me ask our city attorney about this real quick.

[2:27:23] Proposition 218, what is the California law requirement?

[2:27:29] Thank you, Mr. Mayor, members of the council.

[2:27:31] So there are two parts of the law.

[2:27:33] One is the addition to the California Constitution, which is Article 13D, Section 6,

[2:27:40] which talks about how water, wastewater, and solid waste fees may be adopted.

[2:27:46] And I've heard the commentators talk about basically a proactive vote, and

[2:27:53] Those three fee structures, however, pursuant to the California Constitution do not require a proactive

[2:27:59] meaning that you do not need a majority approval to have those fees go into effect.

[2:28:04] The Constitution actually provides that it's a protest vote, which is why we're talking tonight about,

[2:28:09] whether or not there is a majority protest against those fees going into effect.

[2:28:13] And what that means is 50 plus 1 is what is needed in terms of percentages is what is needed

[2:28:19] to defeat the adoption of those fees.

[2:28:22] So one of the reasons that the ballots haven't actually been counted.

[2:28:27] We've only counted pieces of mail that have come in, is because in order to even start counting the ballots

[2:28:32] to make sure that they aren't duplicative, that the property owner is actually represented on those ballots,

[2:28:40] is because, I'm sorry, we haven't counted the ballots because we haven't even opened the envelopes.

[2:28:46] If we haven't had enough pieces of mail to even get to the 8,000 plus threshold that's needed to approach having a majority vote.

[2:28:54] From a public resources standpoint, it doesn't make sense to invest the time to actually count those ballots.

[2:29:00] The state legislature also implemented the Prop 218 on the best implementation bill.

[2:29:06] That was, that occurred in order to help facilitate the implementation of Prop 218.

[2:29:11] What happened in this city in 2014 was the city council adopted a resolution that actually adds an additional layer to help with

[2:29:20] implementing these types of fee structures. Amongst other things, for example, there's no legal requirement that we send out a ballot.

[2:29:28] Neither the constitution nor state law require us to send out a ballot.

[2:29:32] We send out a ballot for two reasons. One is, it doubles as both the notice for the protest hearing.

[2:29:39] and also it helps facilitate counting of those ballots if we need to.

[2:29:44] Only property owners get notices of the ballot.

[2:29:47] That's all that's required under state law.

[2:29:50] We can go back and verify what date all those notices were sent out.

[2:29:54] I have previously done so.

[2:29:56] It was on or about May 29th, I think is what-

[2:30:00] I recall. May 30th. May 30th. May 30th. All of those were mailed out in accordance with California law. There was some discussion about what the ballot wording actually was. Again, I note that there's no requirement that we send out a ballot. I also note that the ballot that was actually sent out is not the one that was presented on this blue piece of paper tonight. It actually has the notification with regard to the franchise fee proposal.

[2:30:29] I will also finally note, and please correct me if I have missed anything, that the council

[2:30:35] had an extensive discussion about the franchise fee amounts before the notices were sent out,

[2:30:41] whether to send out what they should be, whether or not notice should be sent out, and set

[2:30:46] the date for the public hearing back in May.

[2:30:49] The final observation I make on this is that there have been changes to the law that are

[2:30:56] We're noted in the staff report with regard to why there's a recommendation that the fees actually be reduced.

[2:31:02] A component of the study was rendered invalid by an appellate court during the time period that the notices were sent out into the night state.

[2:31:12] So that has been reduced, that calculation has been taken out of the study for purposes of reducing the fee.

[2:31:18] And I also note that there have been changes to state law effective at the beginning of this year.

[2:31:23] So we will actually be bringing back a revised resolution for prop to 18 for the future on a future agenda item, obviously not tonight.

[2:31:34] Happy to answer that.

[2:31:35] Okay, so the second question to that is did we comply to the pop to 18 laws?

[2:31:40] We complied with California Constitution and state law, yes.

[2:31:45] Okay, so I'm going to summarize that because there was a lot of legal lease terms in layman's terms.

[2:31:51] From my understanding from what you just said is, there's a California law for proposition 218.

[2:31:57] The City of Mind Park with the Council, and I think there's a member here who actually said on that council in 2014.

[2:32:04] The council here went above and beyond the state law and said in the City of Mind Park, we are going to make it harder for these things to happen, which we did.

[2:32:13] and even the mailing out of these refuse fees have met the require not only the state law, but also the city resolution that was blessed by City Council back in 2014.

[2:32:29] Is that, did I get that clear?

[2:32:32] So the notices that were sent out were sent out to all property owners in accordance with California law.

[2:32:38] Okay.

[2:32:38] Okay so that's the first one okay can we show the chart real quick about I want to kind

[2:32:44] of walk to the background of where we were remember the the trash contract is for seven

[2:32:52] years this actually went into effect last September but the discussion for the trash contract

[2:32:59] went back 18 months before last September, this is what we got in terms of a bit.

[2:33:09] From a simple standpoint, the City Council that was sitting here in 2017 voted based on

[2:33:18] measure BB, which is a measure ballot by the City of Marri Park resident who said we will

[2:33:24] change our trash contract every seven years or so.

[2:33:29] That's voted by the residents, by all of you, by self-included.

[2:33:33] When that contract came up in 2024, because initially just was proved in 2017,

[2:33:42] the rates that we were paying, again, I'm going to keep it simple.

[2:33:46] I was paying $24.99 or $25 for a single family home.

[2:33:52] If I went with where I was paying $29.99 again,

[2:33:58] and instead of $25, $30.

[2:34:01] If I went with Athens who actually bid,

[2:34:05] Athens was gonna charge me about $38.69, $39.

[2:34:12] By default, by our measure BB,

[2:34:15] the city had to take the lower one at $25 versus $38.

[2:34:23] If we kept the same contract with Athens, the two bid,

[2:34:27] Then that would have been $58.

[2:34:31] So you can imagine the city's position in terms of where we needed to go.

[2:34:35] We had, by measure BB, we had to take the contract of the lower rate.

[2:34:42] Assuming everything was the same, which is the three-card system.

[2:34:45] So instead of paying $38, or I'm going to run it to $39, we will all pay 25, actually $29 or $30, okay?

[2:34:57] Okay? The contract will wear a CPI every year of 3% or so. Again, I'm just estimating.

[2:35:06] Even if you built in the 3% over the 7 years, it was still going to be less than $38.

[2:35:11] So by default, we have to take that because, again, voter initiated, we did this to ourselves.

[2:35:19] We asked for this, okay? So that's the background.

[2:35:25] The third item here is cost of other cities.

[2:35:29] And this is, I got a report, where's that report?

[2:35:33] And I'm going to tell you all these cities and you tell me where,

[2:35:36] so I know South Pasadena just updated their new trash,

[2:35:42] monthly trash rate, because they just got a new,

[2:35:44] every few years you have to sign a new contract.

[2:35:46] The city of South Pasadena just signed a new trash contract, $71 a month, there's escalations

[2:35:56] every month, I'm not going to get into that but that's going to be another $10 more.

[2:36:00] So first month, $70, the city of San Marino just signed a trash contract, $58 a month.

[2:36:08] Again, escalations all the way up, $75, $85, $95, in future months.

[2:36:32] Ontario.

[2:36:34] is

[2:36:35] are on the bottom three and we just signed a new contract. The two cities that

[2:36:42] slightly below us, and I'm going to give them props, right? Our hamburger is

[2:36:46] paying $30 a month, rose meat is paying $26 a month, but guess what? Their

[2:36:52] contract is up soon in the year or two. Guess what that rate is going to be?

[2:37:00] It

[2:37:00] is not going to be $35 or $40. We will see that number and then we will report

[2:37:07] that number if you guys come to the next meeting so that's kind of where we are with the refuse contract

[2:37:12] okay that was my that was my third point I just want to again be factual and set up set up where we are

[2:37:18] today uh the rubbish fee of $34.69 not all of that is going to where where is charging is $29.99

[2:37:31] plus another is it a buck 10 for the escalation, right?

[2:37:37] The $3.50 actually comes back to the city.

[2:37:41] So that's a city can put that into general fun.

[2:37:45] It's really for roads and streets to make sure we maintain the city.

[2:37:49] So I just want to make sure we understand all of that.

[2:37:54] Okay. No one wants to pay more, but I understand that.

[2:37:58] because I also work a full time job.

[2:38:00] Somebody asked, well, you must be making a lot of money for city.

[2:38:03] The city council gets paid $500 a month.

[2:38:07] Most, if not all of us, donate more than that amount of money back into our libraries and our schools.

[2:38:14] We're doing this because we care for the city, that's the bottom line.

[2:38:18] And I'm going to actually open this up for comments from the rest of my city council members

[2:38:23] so that they get a chance to kind of walk in here and have the discussion.

[2:38:28] Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

[2:38:31] For the staff, I'm wondering if we can take a quick step back in terms of,

[2:38:36] I think there is a lot of lack of understanding and just misconceptions about what we're talking about specifically tonight in terms of the franchise fee.

[2:38:44] Can you just talk high level what a franchise fee is and what the purpose of charging that is?

[2:38:48] So

[2:38:53] the city completed a franchise fee study that looked at costs that the city could recover for

[2:39:02] administering a solid waste franchise or solid waste services.

[2:39:05] So the study looked at three different categories.

[2:39:08] That includes the city's cost for the management and administration of the franchise agreements.

[2:39:13] So that includes salary and benefits for city staff that are overseeing solid waste programs.

[2:39:19] It also included charges for the use of the public right of way.

[2:39:23] So for setting out carts and containers out into the street.

[2:39:28] The study also looked at costs associated with pavement impacts, the use of the roads for the collection of trash.

[2:39:35] But as we previously stated, those costs because the recent case law were excluded from the rates that are being considered today.

[2:39:42] Okay, so the franchise fees that are being proposed are fees to recover city costs for

[2:39:49] solid waste programs.

[2:39:52] It's not going to wear disposal and it would go back.

[2:39:56] It would be deposited to our Refuse Underpriced Fund, not General Fund, to declare.

[2:40:01] So just to be clear, good.

[2:40:02] I was going to tag team on those comments, all of which are correct.

[2:40:05] I should point out that there have been an addition to the pellet case that just came down past 45 days.

[2:40:11] There's also been a California Supreme Court case decision that has changed the way that all franchise fees in the state of California have to be calculated.

[2:40:21] One of the reasons that we've performed the study and have gone through this process is precisely because in reaction to that California's Supreme Court case, historically most public entities have simply applied a 10% franchise fee to all gross revenue received from solid waste.

[2:40:36] people have been paying that for years for all jurisdictions that have solid waste, or most I should say I shouldn't say all, those with franchise fees.

[2:40:46] And that as the California Supreme Court's properly recognized is simply unsupportable based upon prop to 18 case law and the original intent of the voters.

[2:40:57] There needs to be a reasonable relationship between the cost being collected from the rate payers.

[2:41:03] And I'm sorry, the amount being collected from repairs as opposed to the cost being incurred

[2:41:10] by public entities.

[2:41:11] And so that is one of the reasons that we are going through this exercise.

[2:41:14] Again, it used to be, most of my career, it was simply each franchise agreement with state

[2:41:20] that the franchisee would pay the public entity 10 percent of its gross revenue,

[2:41:25] and that was the franchise fee for the privilege of operating within the jurisdiction.

[2:41:28] So in plain English, correctly if I'm wrong in characterizing this way, franchise fees in this case and in most cases is to cover the costs of managing and providing these trash services in this case, the service to residents and businesses in the city, these costs, these costs exist whether they're through the franchise, whether they're paid for one way or another, they have to happen in the city has to incur these costs to

[2:41:57] to have trash, have it trafficked to have it.

[2:42:02] Correct. The costs are paid for either through the general fund, through taxpayers in general,

[2:42:07] or they're paid for by the ratepayers that specifically pay for these services.

[2:42:12] So these are costs that are borne either, if we don't charge this franchise fee, that means

[2:42:18] the general fund essentially subsidizes the cost of every customer that has trash pick up in the city.

[2:42:25] that's residents and businesses, everyone else, we socialize that cost among our general

[2:42:31] fund instead of by people that actually use the service.

[2:42:35] That's correct.

[2:42:36] I mean, I will even throw in there that we actually had a right to charge the fee back

[2:42:42] last September, but because you didn't want that heavy load another five bucks or 350 into

[2:42:51] to the 29, you kind of held it back for a year.

[2:42:55] And now here we are.

[2:42:56] I mean, at the end of the day, the way I look at this

[2:42:58] from a number standpoint is, you know,

[2:43:01] we have about 18,000 homes who are going through this contract.

[2:43:05] And if you increase it by $3,050,

[2:43:08] that's about 63,000 a year.

[2:43:12] You round it off times 12.

[2:43:14] That's about $750,000 that the city is paying for the people

[2:43:20] People who are actually paying the trash bill, if we increase this rate, you get to use that $750,000 with the city's general fund to use it for other purposes.

[2:43:31] Yes, I agree.

[2:43:34] My next question is in the city attorney area alluded to this, just about everyone that provides trash service, every city in California has a franchise fee, is that fair to say?

[2:43:45] Okay.

[2:43:47] That's fair to say except for those jurisdictions that provide solid waste services directly

[2:43:52] in.

[2:43:54] In which case they would probably recover those costs directly through rates.

[2:43:57] In which case correct, the costs would be collected through the actual rates.

[2:44:02] And then just to confirm, Carl, I know you've already said it, but I know it's come up a lot,

[2:44:07] it came up a lot during the comment just to confirm, yes or no.

[2:44:11] We followed the Prop 218 and the State requirements in terms of this Prop 218 process and the ballot

[2:44:16] process. Based upon the information I have sitting here today, yes.

[2:44:21] And then just in terms of how this is implemented, if we approve, well, one, appreciate staff taking

[2:44:29] our direction by the council out of our discussion in May around this alternative franchise fees

[2:44:35] that's proposed here. One, I would not support anything beyond the

[2:44:39] alternative franchise fee, which is a lower amount that's proposed in the staff report.

[2:44:43] So I'll just make that clear, but I appreciate staff putting the calculation together and putting that forward in front of us for consideration.

[2:44:53] If we approve the franchise fee as proposed, the alternative franchise fee is there.

[2:45:00] The ability for the council to phase in these fees in a different way, say, saying for 75% or 50% of the maximum fee that we're approving today over the first year, and then the remainder of the second year or some other kind of schedule for implementing this or phasing it in.

[2:45:28] Mr.

[2:45:28] completely accurate from the standpoint of, you don't have to adopt any fee.

[2:45:32] If you choose to adopt a fee, you may adopt an even lower fee.

[2:45:35] If you want to implement it through a phased procedure, that's up to you as well.

[2:45:41] It's completely within your discretion.

[2:45:43] As long as you don't go above a maximum cap that the study is identified as being the maximum cost.

[2:45:49] Thank you.

[2:45:50] And the mayor answered actually a lot of the other questions I had.

[2:45:53] I just want to again appreciate everyone that showed up, I know folks that a few folks have to take off as well

[2:45:59] I know it's getting a little late, but I just want to emphasize how we are also sensitive.

[2:46:04] I'm very sensitive to these cost increases.

[2:46:07] We're human beings and we're residents of the city as well.

[2:46:10] We all pay these same rates and these fees not only for trash, for water, for everything.

[2:46:15] I is not going to notice how much my bill as well has gone up.

[2:46:19] I pay this stuff too, and there's at least one member of the council that pays for a business as well

[2:46:24] And so it pays more than double duty in that sense

[2:46:28] This is not something I take lightly

[2:46:30] I don't think anyone on this council takes lightly in terms of increasing costs

[2:46:34] To residents and to businesses in the city

[2:46:36] We don't if it were up to me, of course I don't want to do this

[2:46:40] I don't want to make things more expensive

[2:46:42] I don't want to make I don't I'd love to give everyone a break and cut

[2:46:46] But fees and taxes if we could, but we're balancing this with the need to provide services in the community for the community.

[2:46:54] We heard today from people about recreation facilities in the city that are in dire need of investment.

[2:47:01] There are so many other needs as well.

[2:47:03] This is not the only 218 process we've gone through in the city because we've had to catch up and

[2:47:08] make a lot of investments in our streets and I hope people have noticed,

[2:47:11] This residents have noticed the continuing improvement in the state of some of our streets

[2:47:16] are still long ways to go, but our streets are water infrastructure, a lot of public

[2:47:22] infrastructure that needs investment, and a lot of community and public services that

[2:47:27] also need, right, we got to pay our people, city hall, our facilities need to be upgraded and

[2:47:34] brought to code and brought to a point of being able to continue to serve the community.

[2:47:38] So I just want to be clear that that's what we're balancing here on the council and includes what we're talking about here in terms of

[2:47:46] the cost for

[2:47:49] trash pickup, right? And I think I would characterize trash pickup as an essential utility if the trash is not picked up for a long enough time

[2:47:56] I we're going to be in a lot of trouble in the city. It's to make sure

[2:48:00] this service continues and that the city is

[2:48:02] is allocating the costs of trash pick up and recycling

[2:48:07] and refuge services in the city properly.

[2:48:12] And in my mind, the most fair and effective

[2:48:16] and efficient way to allocate those costs,

[2:48:19] including these costs that the city has to bear

[2:48:22] to manage this contract with wear and Athens

[2:48:26] for our two incumbent trash haulers for the city.

[2:48:28] And to make sure that these services are provided at a level of service that the community desires and expects from the city and from our trash providers, these costs have to happen.

[2:48:43] It's a matter of how we charge them and it's not fair to me that it would fall on the general fund for everyone that pays into the general fund to pay that and to subsidize that cost for customers.

[2:48:58] I think it belongs and I believe the responsibility is on the customers directly so the ratepayers and so the fairest way to do that is through a franchise fee and the way to do that is through this two 18 process which by my accounts and what I understand and through the staff report and the staff's work, which I appreciate has gotten us to this point so I would I understand and I don't want to anyone to think we don't take this light that we don't take this seriously.

[2:49:28] If we increase these fees, almost as residents on this council, and the city staff as well that live in the city have to pay these increases as well, and I guarantee you, we're not getting a raise from the city to pay for these increased costs.

[2:49:44] So it's not something I take lightly.

[2:49:47] It's something I would love not to have to do, but the reality is for me and the way that I see it, these costs are happening and do happen and need to happen to make sure that the service in terms of trash pickup and refuse and recycling need to happen per state law and by the expectations of all of us in the community.

[2:50:05] And this is the fairest way to do it, and the most responsible way to go about it.

[2:50:11] But so I would support the alternative franchise fees at the level proposed under the alternative franchise fees in the staff report, but also as staff to bring back maybe at the next council meeting or as soon as reasonably as soon as it is reasonable for potential options to phase in the full costs or

[2:50:35] If there are options, at least bring in some options for us to consider in terms of phasing in.

[2:50:39] I also know that there are potential constitutional issues about this, but for other private utility services,

[2:50:46] there are opportunities to institute low-income and need-based assistance programs.

[2:50:55] If we can look and explore if there are opportunities to do that locally, or even negotiate with where,

[2:51:01] I know we already have existing payment systems to be able to, or payment, pay that bill assistance programs that where can and does manage for customers and for public or in Athens, I believe, but if there are ways to offer subsidies for low income and other households in the city, let's explore that.

[2:51:26] I also ask for us to look at ways to advocate at the state level for potential programs offset costs for low income and needy

[2:51:36] Households just as we have done. I think we'll continue to do on the water side

[2:51:40] to

[2:51:41] See where we can offer some relief for those in our community that really do need it

[2:51:46] And then are having a hard time for those on fixed incomes and seniors and low income families to be able to

[2:51:51] that have programs that they can go to and we can do a better job on the city and as well to help promote these programs that might exist to offer bill assistance in bill forgiveness and payment programs that can help them spray out cost payments where they can.

[2:52:05] So wherever we can, I'm sensitive and want to be cognizant and to the extent we can on the city side provide assistance so those in need that we're going to have a hard time affording not only trash bills going forward and

[2:52:19] We're already having hard time, but also water and other utility bills.

[2:52:22] Whatever we can do to rebuild our efforts to help communicate for

[2:52:26] more of those resources to help families and households in need, but

[2:52:30] also connect them to services that are existing.

[2:52:33] Would ask that we and the staff look at opportunities and

[2:52:39] bring some of those resources back into our community and

[2:52:42] help make that information available.

[2:52:46] Yes. Actually, I want to thank my colleague for asking a lot of good questions and responding

[2:52:51] to all the comments and questions during the hearing. Actually, I can be very brief.

[2:52:57] But again, just for audience in free, again, walk us through the process which, under perpetuating

[2:53:03] which we informed the public about this process. I mean, again, besides mail, I mean, it was

[2:53:08] We also posted right in our cascades, email,

[2:53:12] right, in different languages, right, looking,

[2:53:14] Spanish, Chinese, we can walk us through the process.

[2:53:17] Again, please.

[2:53:19] Sure, so the notice, which includes a protest ballot,

[2:53:22] was meld out to all properties.

[2:53:25] And we also included a notice of the public hearing of today's

[2:53:29] public hearing date in our Monterey Press newspaper,

[2:53:33] both on June 26th, thank you.

[2:53:34] and July 3rd issues.

[2:53:38] We also, like we always do, post our agendas with detailed information regarding the staff

[2:53:43] report and the proposed rates that are being presented tonight.

[2:53:47] And again, this is also in a different language, correct?

[2:53:52] Yes.

[2:53:52] The notice that has the ballot went out in three different languages.

[2:53:57] Two different languages.

[2:53:57] Three.

[2:53:58] Three.

[2:53:58] English, Spanish, and Chinese.

[2:54:00] Okay.

[2:54:00] English, Spanish, and Chinese.

[2:54:01] Okay.

[2:54:02] Okay. And again, I know Kaur already, you know, commented, but again, what was sent out,

[2:54:10] specifically, did refer to refuse rates, right? I mean, I know the comment that Vellas were

[2:54:15] confusing, but that is correct. Mr. Rammer, Mr. Counsel, what was meld out?

[2:54:20] This was not correct.

[2:54:22] The attachment to the May 7th meeting noticed the blue page, yes, that the blue page was

[2:54:29] was attached to the May 7 agenda, what was mailed out was the refuse notice with the ballot

[2:54:39] and that had all the correct information, correct?

[2:54:42] That's not it.

[2:54:42] Sure.

[2:54:43] I do want, though, I would like to actually just follow as well, is that, again, I, so if

[2:54:48] you're questioned, whether you're all directed to the clerk's office, if you're

[2:54:52] questioned about the balloting, or whether you're all directed to clerk's office?

[2:54:55] I believe that when we received questions, some of them were handled by the Crook's Office.

[2:55:02] Some of them might have been handled by public work staff, depending on, you know, what were the call they're called or emailed.

[2:55:09] But, yes, a combination of staff had responded to some of that.

[2:55:12] I mean, it's only because, again, given that whoever picks up the phone, I mean, certainly, they represent the city.

[2:55:18] And I would hope that staff did not mislead or give both information.

[2:55:24] And if they did, then I think that speaks to, you know,

[2:55:27] whoever has a phone, especially when we have

[2:55:28] processes like this, I expect and hope that, you know,

[2:55:32] there's a walkthrough of how to respond

[2:55:34] and how to direct constituents.

[2:55:38] Because again, after any misinformation at the end of the day,

[2:55:41] we hear it, you know, because we have elected representatives.

[2:55:45] Further, I, you know, some of the folks who came up

[2:55:50] and spoke, you know, did speak about the,

[2:55:54] and I realize it's nice to discuss it about the roughness,

[2:55:56] but they did bring up some, I think,

[2:55:57] important issue regarding the tradition of where

[2:56:02] and also customer service.

[2:56:05] And I think that I would even like at some point,

[2:56:07] perhaps I could have where come back

[2:56:09] and just give us an update so that we can also talk about,

[2:56:12] because I mean, I mean, well,

[2:56:16] again, in my own district, you know,

[2:56:18] I've had constituent who live,

[2:56:21] And I'll give anecdotally that gave examples where apparently and again maybe for a few months and maybe it's been fixed

[2:56:27] But nonetheless it speaks to I think where people's frustration is that we've had people who reached up to me saying that they don't they live in a condo

[2:56:33] And apparently that where a person didn't have to write remote so left didn't pick up the the canister over the weekend or

[2:56:41] Made some comments that well the track but it's empty and I guess I don't have to pick it up

[2:56:46] I mean, I don't care if there's only one gallon of milk

[2:56:49] If it's trash, it's trash day, and so, and again, there's less of a now, probably part of the tradition.

[2:56:55] However, I do want to make sure that, number one, that is not the attitude of where

[2:57:00] step number two, that I would also like an update as far as I'm, how are they, if someone

[2:57:07] does email, or makes a phone call, what does it turn around time, is it one day, is it ten

[2:57:12] days, and is it in language, I would like to make sure that that is addressed as well.

[2:57:17] No. No, I didn't, Mr. Mayor, members of the council will definitely follow up with

[2:57:21] where on some of the current concerns that we heard tonight. I do know that our city

[2:57:25] staff meets with where regularly and provides the comments that we received from the public

[2:57:30] and feedback. We can definitely ask where to be at a future council meeting to provide an

[2:57:36] update to the council and the committee directly.

[2:57:39] Thank you.

[2:57:41] All right, so I wanted to appreciate everyone for coming out and expressing their opinions

[2:57:46] and concerns today and also acknowledge my colleagues for answering a lot of the questions already.

[2:57:52] So like presented, I think it was a very difficult decision last year regarding where in Athens,

[2:57:59] I wasn't on council yet, but I watched the council meeting and when I was canvassing the city,

[2:58:07] a lot of residents were complaining to me about how difficult the transition from Athens to where

[2:58:12] was the changes, but there was not a single resident who, when I asked, would you prefer

[2:58:17] to pay the increased price or go through these changes that they told me they wanted to

[2:58:22] pay increased pricing? So I think despite everyone's complaints about changes, because changes

[2:58:27] are always difficult, I think the council last year did make the correct decision in representing

[2:58:33] the residents, you know, what they would have preferred, because no one would have wanted

[2:58:37] to pay more than what they're currently paying.

[2:58:41] In regards to the two blue papers that one of the speakers gave us, which one is the incorrect one?

[2:58:49] They're both incorrect?

[2:58:51] So this one that says water customers, this was not given to the residents.

[2:59:00] Mr. Mayor, members of the council, the blue page that has water customers, that was attached

[2:59:09] to this staff report in May as a draft notice for the Prop 218 process, but that was not

[2:59:15] the copy that was mailed out.

[2:59:17] The copy that was mailed out was corrected, it had the refuse information on it.

[2:59:21] Okay, and then what about the second-page resolution number 11647, page 4 of 6, section 7F, which is an arrow to it?

[2:59:32] This is a reference to the staff report.

[2:59:35] Oh, sorry, this is a reference to the resolution that was adopted in 2014.

[2:59:41] Okay, so the one that's in the vendor property owner loses or misplaced as a protest ballot, the city needs to provide a replacement?

[2:59:58] because I, my under

[3:00:00] My understanding was that there was not even a requirement to send out a protest ballot. Correct. Correct. Do you want me to read that section? Yeah. Okay. In the event, a property owner loses or misplaces a protest ballot upon request by that property owner, the city will provide a replacement protest ballot unless a property, sorry, unless a property filled out protest ballot has already been received for the parcel of the property. Okay. And so I believe.

[3:00:29] The staff has already confirmed that all of the pieces of mail in the ballots were sent out to all the property owners May 30th with 45 days notice.

[3:00:41] But since there are residents here claiming either they accidentally threw it away or didn't receive it, even though we have proof of providing it and mailing it to them.

[3:00:53] And, you know, I heard some of our residents like Vivian and Mike say, you know, if they

[3:00:59] extended it for another period of time to give more opportunities for objection, even

[3:01:05] though I really don't think that, you know, $88,000 is a lot.

[3:01:09] So we can extend it for a few weeks, but it's going to be very difficult to get $8,000.

[3:01:16] But just to appease, you know, the residents and give more time for those who might want

[3:01:21] I want to send them in, I would not, I would be okay extending it to provide more time for protests.

[3:01:33] I don't think, I personally don't think it's necessary to extend.

[3:01:39] I'm ready to support the staff reundition for the alternative rate that's been proposed tonight.

[3:01:48] And then I think bring back for staff can bring back options in terms of potentially facing in.

[3:01:52] These costs, what I've heard tonight from residents, is I think the core concern is really about

[3:01:58] affording the rate increase. I understand there are some, I think,

[3:02:03] relatively minor concerns around the process and the ballots, and

[3:02:08] whether we're supposed to have

[3:02:12] replacement ballots ready and all that stuff. I hope that and I would expect staff to look into that and

[3:02:18] our process in general around Prop. 18 and how we administer the

[3:02:22] The process for 218 going forward, and I think very clear to staff we need to let's, if there are things, if there are things we need to clean up about this process, I know we don't do them necessarily every year, but let's make sure that we clean up any of these processes and any updates the state law that we need to integrate into our resolutions in our process for administering prop 218, let's do that and bring that to council.

[3:02:49] I'm ready to go on this.

[3:02:52] I don't know how I do anticipate given concerns that were laid out tonight and by written

[3:03:00] communication that we're hearing today and that we've seen in our emails.

[3:03:05] I don't see, I think the core concern I'm seeing is around approving these rate increases

[3:03:12] is at all and that's just not, that will not change unless we get to 8,000 votes, which

[3:03:19] I don't see.

[3:03:21] Right.

[3:03:21] These, I think this needs to happen.

[3:03:23] These costs are being borne by the city and by everyone right now through the general

[3:03:28] fund.

[3:03:29] I don't think that's the right allocation.

[3:03:30] I think we need to move forward with the franchise fee sooner than later so that we can make

[3:03:35] sure we're allocating those costs in the right way to customers directly who are benefiting

[3:03:40] from the service.

[3:03:41] not the general fund subsidizing that.

[3:03:47] Again, just for my edification, again, everything will listen to on May 30th, correct?

[3:03:53] Yes, millions per cent on May 30th.

[3:03:57] And Mr. Mayor, members of the Council noted, understand the direction from Council on Prop.

[3:04:02] 18 for future processes to ensure that there's replacement ballots in modern requests and we can

[3:04:09] definitely make adjustments as needed.

[3:04:11] My understanding is that the rates are not going to be increased until after September 1st, right?

[3:04:19] So, if we did extend it for two weeks, that wouldn't make a difference in terms of us getting the money to paid by September 1st.

[3:04:31] That is correct. The fee is in schedule to be in place September 1st.

[3:04:39] I guess then the question is administratively can they change the bills in time if we push

[3:04:45] this out for if we do it two weeks or three weeks or four weeks will they administrative

[3:04:52] administratively have enough time to change the building cycle?

[3:04:56] I guess that's the part where I think that's where you're going.

[3:04:58] Yeah.

[3:05:01] We can definitely check in with where on that question if the fee is adopted tonight and

[3:05:07] When we're bringing back, as council member Wong mentioned, a phased in approach when

[3:05:12] we come back with the percentages of adoption for year one, if it's phased in year two and

[3:05:20] so on and so on.

[3:05:20] If that's the council's direction, we could look into that as well.

[3:05:28] Just so I'm clear, so what I'm thinking of hearing is that a discussion of phased approach,

[3:05:34] the alternative rate that's proposed on the staff, as well as a extension of the common period?

[3:05:41] Is that what I'm hearing?

[3:05:42] An extension of time for them to mail pro-taff.

[3:05:45] Yeah, those are your two options right now.

[3:05:47] The two options being floated right now, and you guys need to decide.

[3:05:52] I'm waiting for motions.

[3:05:54] Yeah, I'm happy to make a motion to adopt staff or a foundation around the alternative.

[3:05:58] I'll turn it franchise fee as proposed in the staff report and for staff to bring back options in terms of phasing it up to that maximum alternative proposed franchise fee for whatever that's reasonable to bring back to council before in the next whatever couple of council meetings.

[3:06:20] I would make an alternative motion to give the residents two more weeks this and back the protest.

[3:06:26] us.

[3:06:30] So those are two, those are two different motions. We need to-

[3:06:35] Is there a difference? Two weeks or four weeks? Is that a difference?

[3:06:42] In terms of whether

[3:06:44] we can implement it if we don't get enough protest votes. But if you get enough protest

[3:06:49] votes then this thing goes away. Yeah, yeah. If we don't get enough, then-

[3:06:53] So let me do this way, because we got to go to the procedure.

[3:07:01] Do I have a motion?

[3:07:02] What is the motion? Do I have a second and then we'll vote on that?

[3:07:05] And then if we don't have that process, then we'll go to a second motion and then we'll vote on that.

[3:07:10] So I'm going to start over here to my left for this left.

[3:07:15] Do I have a motion? And I think I heard something.

[3:07:17] If you come along and you repeat that motion, yeah, I'll make the motion to adopt staff

[3:07:22] orientation for the alternate proposed franchise fee, the lower amount that's been detailed

[3:07:29] by staff with the additional direction for staff to bring back options for phasing in

[3:07:36] up to that maximum alternative over a period of time.

[3:07:44] That's a motion.

[3:07:45] Do I hear a second?

[3:07:51] So I do not hear a second.

[3:07:54] So that motion is...

[3:07:56] Well, so there's no second.

[3:07:58] I'd also note that, if we call a quick question, this requirement would, or it requires

[3:08:06] how many votes to pass.

[3:08:08] This one is a regular ordinance, it's a simple majority.

[3:08:13] Well, actually, I'm sorry, it's three affirmative votes.

[3:08:16] Okay. So do I have a different motion? I heard a different motion so you can go ahead

[3:08:23] and make that motion. So actually before I make my motion I just wanted to ask that

[3:08:27] if there's a difference if we do two weeks or four weeks if that's going to affect the

[3:08:31] administrative process. I think from a practical matter, the two, the four weeks puts us closer

[3:08:38] to the September 1st new rate, potentially new rate, right?

[3:08:44] So we're giving less time for where also to prep their billing.

[3:08:49] So practically speaking, I think the next council meeting is probably more practical for us to still ensure that the rate is increased September 1st.

[3:09:01] So if it's four weeks, it would be August 20th, right?

[3:09:05] Okay, and that would be way before ten days before September 1st, so that's not enough time.

[3:09:13] Okay, so I'll make a motion for two weeks' extension.

[3:09:17] Okay, so we have a motion for from Pro Tem Yang for eight.

[3:09:22] I'm sorry, I just picked clarification, Mr. Ray, members of the council.

[3:09:26] I understand most of the time we are here every other week, but in this situation, if you

[3:09:32] say two weeks, we're not here that week.

[3:09:34] So August 6th is that we're asking for clarification.

[3:09:37] Do you mean at the August 6th meeting?

[3:09:41] Correct.

[3:09:41] On the 6th.

[3:09:42] Correct.

[3:09:42] And that would give 30-60.

[3:09:45] That would be giving 80 days, approximately 80 days notice, not 45 days, but from May 30th.

[3:09:53] It's still two weeks because we-

[3:09:57] No, from May 30th.

[3:09:58] Original 40.

[3:09:59] Yeah, because the requirements 45 days, which we've already met, but now we're giving 80 days.

[3:10:04] for the protests, if I'm doing my math correctly.

[3:10:07] For me from May 30th, and to August 6th.

[3:10:13] To August.

[3:10:14] Well, okay, if our meeting is August 6th,

[3:10:17] we need to close it out by July 30th,

[3:10:20] because don't we have to do that because for-

[3:10:23] That this was going to be my question

[3:10:25] for matters of clarification.

[3:10:26] So as I understand the motion, the desire

[3:10:29] is to lead the protest period open until August 6th,

[3:10:33] which means that we need to reopen the public hearing that you've closed and continue it to August 6th, which is a date certain so that we can continue receiving protest votes.

[3:10:43] I think that's the motion.

[3:10:45] Yes, you continue to protest here, which is to allow it to extend it for three more weeks, not two more.

[3:10:51] It's to August 6th, you can date certain.

[3:10:53] Okay,

[3:10:57] so that's the motion.

[3:11:04] do I hear a second? Seconded by Council Member Low. Okay. Any other discussions?

[3:11:14] Then let's take a vote.

[3:11:25] Mayor Goh, approved. Mayor Pro Tem Yang, approved. Council Member

[3:11:31] Low, approved. Council Member Wong, Appstein. Did I do that right? Okay, so we have a three

[3:11:37] is that enough for this? It is a majority. Okay, so we have pushed this out for three

[3:11:47] weeks. Do I have to open the? Yes, please.

[3:11:50] So I'm going to open back up the discussion on 10 A. The public hearing.

[3:11:58] The public hearing on 10 A and we're going to continue this to August 6th. Yes. And just

[3:12:03] Just a point of clarification, there are many speakers here tonight, is it the council's

[3:12:09] will to hear the same speakers or only to hear new speakers?

[3:12:13] This is a public hearing, which ordinarily under your rules, you have one bite at the apple

[3:12:18] in terms of speaking during a public hearing.

[3:12:20] And it's totally up to you if you want to change those rules, you're able to do that, but

[3:12:24] just so that folks in the audience know what the rules are moving forward and we're not

[3:12:28] surprised on August 6th.

[3:12:29] So we have to keep the rule of law, which is if they spoke one by the apple, that's it.

[3:12:36] What I can do is maybe do my clarification up front, so they understand factually how we got here.

[3:12:45] Just those four comments, I have my notes here.

[3:12:49] We'll repeat that, so if you understand how we got here, so we don't have the same questions and we don't have the same comments in terms of why the rate hike, why you sent a contract.

[3:12:58] We just stick with the facts, and then we'll see where we are with the ballot votes.

[3:13:04] Is that okay?

[3:13:07] Yeah, I have a question, but the other part of my failed notion was to ask staff to do

[3:13:13] an analysis on potentially phasing in the franchise fee.

[3:13:18] If that's still possible, I don't know if that's doable by August 6th.

[3:13:22] But if that's an opportunity to be able to have a couple weeks to do that,

[3:13:29] maybe we can

[3:13:30] and include that analysis part of the staff report for that.

[3:13:33] Mr. and I, I'm members of the council.

[3:13:35] If the council is, I think if the majority of council

[3:13:37] is interested in us looking in and phasing in the fee over time,

[3:13:41] I think if we could hear that back from council, get feedback

[3:13:44] so that we understand that that's a request

[3:13:46] for the majority of councils that we could work on that,

[3:13:49] we will do our best to try to bring back the phased in approach.

[3:13:53] I think I heard from council member Wong,

[3:13:57] I know you might have just been chatting, but 75% of the fee being implemented like year one and then year two would be the remaining 25%.

[3:14:08] So let me just make sure I understand this.

[3:14:12] So you're saying, instead of $35 a month, $33 this year, $35 next year, $37 the other year.

[3:14:24] However, the city is still picking up a portion of the cost for the Ministry of Fee.

[3:14:29] I don't fully trust, even your bank, I don't trust your math, but yes, generally that concept in terms of

[3:14:33] We're not going to go to the full franchise fee whatever we've done.

[3:14:37] We'll cover up the portion of that.

[3:14:38] Okay.

[3:14:39] To allow, because I know what I do, we've

[3:14:40] established a large increase in one year.

[3:14:44] So if there's, if we can look at potential options to spread that over your two years.

[3:14:51] So I would agreeable with that because it's not really a motion.

[3:14:54] We're just having staff kind of take a look at it to see.

[3:14:57] Give us.

[3:14:58] What do we need a motion?

[3:15:01] No, there's no motion needed, because we just need direction so that we can prepare. So all of us agree. Okay, that's helpful. Thank you. So just for clarification, the proposed rate in the staff report was an 11, 11.97 increase. So we're going to look at facing that in over year one and then year two, but of course it cannot exceed. It cannot exceed 34, 69.

[3:15:29] So we're looking at like a one to two-year phase in like two-year phase in correct?

[3:15:36] $35,000. Okay. Okay. All right. Thank you. Okay. That's helpful for staff too.

[3:15:39] All right. Thank you. Thank you. Okay. Let's move on to the next item. We're almost home, guys.

[3:15:48] Section 945. Section number 11, new business.

[3:16:02] If I can ask maybe staff, we can have

[3:16:04] If it's in preparation for the public continued public hearing, if we can maybe have interpretation available and ready for the next meeting.

[3:16:14] Yes, understood.

[3:16:16] And then if we want to make sure, City Clerk, if we have contact information for the speakers for tonight, if there's anybody that doesn't have the contact information that we wanted to follow up on, we just want to make sure that we grab that before they leave.

[3:16:29] Okay, thank you.

[3:16:53] No speakers.

[3:16:55] No speakers.

[3:16:56] Okay.

[3:16:57] That's what I thought.

[3:16:59] Okay.

[3:17:00] Good evening.

[3:17:00] May I be your prototype?

[3:17:01] Members of the City Council again.

[3:17:03] Such a deep bond public works manager.

[3:17:06] The item before you is consideration of an urgency ordinance

[3:17:09] and regular ordinance regarding public nuisance contracting policies to

[3:17:17] provide a little bit of background.

[3:17:19] Found generally the city must comply with local and state competitive bidding requirements for

[3:17:24] public works projects over $5,000 to help prevent fraud and

[3:17:28] promote the efficient use of public funds.

[3:17:31] However, this process is timely and because of that,

[3:17:36] these procedures can be counterproductive for time sensitive nuisance abatement projects.

[3:17:42] Typically, time and money is saved when property owners abate nuisance on their own property at their cost.

[3:17:48] some owners, however, being neglect, nuisance abatement orders which can cause delays in worsen conditions.

[3:17:56] Under these circumstances, nuisance instructions are often subject to illegal occupancy, hazard

[3:18:01] disconditions, and bad acts like fires or graffiti.

[3:18:06] So tonight, for your consideration, our changes to the municipal code, chapter 3.100 and chapter 3.90.050,

[3:18:17] to help ensure with nuisance abatement.

[3:18:21] So the three changes that we're going to be going over tonight include City Manager's Public Works Contracting Authority,

[3:18:27] the City Design Immunity Delegation, and the City Attorney's Signature Authority.

[3:18:33] So under the changes, the proposed changes, the City Manager would be able to solicit and enter into Public Works Contracts up to 100,000,

[3:18:42] where the city has a nuisance abatement warrant or where there are emergency conditions.

[3:18:47] The city manager also could directly negotiate remediation services, prevailing wage would

[3:18:53] not apply under these circumstances and costs would be recoverable from property owners.

[3:19:00] The city council, again, the proposed changes include the city council can invoke design

[3:19:05] immunity for liability related to public improvements.

[3:19:08] The council would be able to delegate this authority to approve project plans and invoke design immunity and the proposed changes would essentially codify the city council's delegation of design immunity authority to the city engineer.

[3:19:23] The third change is the city attorney's signature authority.

[3:19:27] The council can delegate authority to send contracts to public officials by ordinance and has delegated this authority to city managers and directors.

[3:19:35] The proposed changes would add the city attorney as a contract signature for retaining special counsel or experts for lawsuits or retaining nuisance abatement contractors.

[3:19:47] Both of the ordinances that are being presented today include essentially all of the changes that I just went over.

[3:19:54] If adopted, the urgency ordinance would become effective immediately upon a four-fifths council

[3:20:01] majority.

[3:20:02] The regular ordinance would require two readings, so if approved, we would present the first

[3:20:08] reading during this council meeting and bring it back to council for the second reading,

[3:20:12] and it would become effective 30 days after adoption.

[3:20:16] So staff's recommendation is for city council to adopt the urgency ordinance, Valleys four-fifths

[3:20:23] vote, amending chapters 3.100 and chapter 3.90.05.0 to add the sections regarding governing

[3:20:32] contracting to a bait public nuisance. I would like to add a note that the staff report

[3:20:38] had a typo in the second sections. It listed 3.090. It's actually 3.90. And also introducing

[3:20:47] and waiving first reading of an ordinance amending again the same sections to add sections governing

[3:20:52] in contracting to a bait public nuisance.

[3:20:57] That concludes my presentation. I'm available

[3:21:00] for comments, your questions, and so is the City Attorney.

[3:21:04] Mr. Member, members of the Council, sorry. I know we jumped right in. We wanted to take

[3:21:06] them away to introduce Joaquin Vazquez. He is the Deputy City Attorney. So, just as,

[3:21:11] and FYI, I don't know that everybody knows him. So, that's who, that's who's up there

[3:21:16] with Sochi, presenting tonight.

[3:21:19] Thank you, Mr. Vazquez.

[3:21:20] Yes.

[3:21:21] Thank you.

[3:21:22] Thank you.

[3:21:23] Honorable Mayor Council, pleasure to serve you.

[3:21:25] Been there before.

[3:21:27] Glad to meet the new faces on the council.

[3:21:29] Thank you for having me.

[3:21:32] Questions, comments?

[3:21:34] Do you have to open up?

[3:21:35] There's no public.

[3:21:37] I support this.

[3:21:39] I appreciate staff putting this together and appreciate that we need to appreciate the need

[3:21:45] for this.

[3:21:46] A quick question would be, is there a requirement when, if the City Manager

[3:21:51] to choose this exercise, this spent new, with the increased spending authority on abatement.

[3:21:58] Is there current requirement for reporting out to the Council on Action,

[3:22:02] taken along these lines?

[3:22:06] Mr. Mayor, members of the Council, I'll take that one.

[3:22:10] Generally speaking, we have either sought authority to initiate litigation in those types of cases.

[3:22:18] Certainly, there's no legal formal requirement, but

[3:22:21] But I know that as a practice, we have informed the council either through confidential

[3:22:26] memas or otherwise, but if that's something that the council would like, direction

[3:22:30] forward, and certainly put that into the minute order, and we will go ahead and update

[3:22:35] you as if these are issued other than on the warrant list.

[3:22:40] Yes, I support this and I just add, I would request that we add that requirement for some sort

[3:22:46] of report whether that's confidential if it's relating to litigation or a quick just report

[3:22:52] out in the weekly report from the city manager to the council. I just want to make sure if

[3:22:58] they're just for my council district or the city generally if there's an abatement action might

[3:23:03] in an area just want to be aware of it. So just add that as a requirement for a quick report out.

[3:23:11] Do I have a motion then?

[3:23:16] I'll move on to the other comments.

[3:23:19] Second by Council Member Low.

[3:23:21] Let's vote.

[3:23:25] I'm approved unanimously.

[3:23:27] All right.

[3:23:29] Getting through this here.

[3:23:33] City Communications, my new favorite friend.

[3:23:37] On the agenda.

[3:23:39] We'll start with Council Member Low.

[3:23:43] Council Member Low.

[3:23:45] Okay.

[3:23:46] Well, you are doing communications.

[3:23:49] Yeah, I would actually just like to announce, so a long time resident of our city, Mr. John Wong,

[3:23:55] recently passed away.

[3:23:56] And for those of you who know him, you know, he's regularly come to the council meetings

[3:24:01] to speak to the public comment.

[3:24:02] Although, my, I also know him because he is the president of the San Diego Village chapter

[3:24:08] of the Chinatown American Census Alliance.

[3:24:10] I am the president of the LA lodge as are many of our counterpart residents.

[3:24:14] But nonetheless, you know, we are starting to hear the passing of a well-revolved resident

[3:24:20] in our city.

[3:24:21] And I would like to adjourn this council meeting in his name and also announce that services

[3:24:30] for Mr. Wong, John Wong, as the July 19th, 9th, 3rd, 8th, 8th, 8th, 8th, 8th, 8th, 8th, 9th,

[3:24:45] and that there is a wake on the 18th,

[3:24:49] 5% of the universe of Changwam,

[3:24:50] mortuary at 225 North Graphiod Avenue,

[3:24:53] Alhambra for the record.

[3:24:56] Also briefly, this past Saturday,

[3:25:00] I attended at Saint,

[3:25:04] and I'm gonna mess up the name,

[3:25:06] Lutheran Church on Graphiod,

[3:25:09] funeral service for a former librarian, Linda Wilson,

[3:25:11] And for those who have looked at a long time know that Linda Wilson was our librarian for many, many years.

[3:25:18] In fact, she was our librarian during that period in which we were rebuilding the librarian library.

[3:25:25] And so many of us, and I realized she had retired as our librarian for many years.

[3:25:32] But nonetheless, the service was here in Monter Park, after she retired, she was living in Monter Park.

[3:25:38] And I know I mentioned in the previous counseling her passing, but again, I'm also adjourned

[3:25:45] in Linda Wilson's memory as well, so thank you.

[3:25:50] Yeah.

[3:25:51] And then also, John Wong also has a wake the Friday before the memorial on July 18th

[3:25:57] in the evening.

[3:25:58] And now, Hambra, if anyone wants to address, they can email us and we'll provide it to them.

[3:26:03] Last Friday, the San Gabriel Valley Civic Alliance also hosted their first inaugural food tour in six different restaurants in Monterey Park, including Carnitas, Cooks Tortas, Taihei, Jim Bakerie, Myanmar, the Burmese restaurants.

[3:26:24] Yeah.

[3:26:26] So there was a bus and all five council members supported it and attended and they're planning on doing it more regularly.

[3:26:35] It brought proceeds to the Rotary Club in Altadena, so supported in Altadena.

[3:26:41] So that was very successful.

[3:26:43] So if it comes around again, everyone's invited to attend.

[3:26:46] And one last item about the protest, if we can have the proper forms available in the clerk's office so that anyone can go and pick it up, if they need one, that would be great.

[3:27:01] Thank you.

[3:27:02] Okay.

[3:27:03] A couple of things from before the last meeting, we're still celebrating Fourth of July all over the city.

[3:27:10] I actually was kicked off the table tennis tournament in our city at Langley Center.

[3:27:18] There were 48 members, 48 competitors, and it's going to go three weeks.

[3:27:23] So that's going to be exciting over the Robert at Langley Center.

[3:27:30] Sometime last week, I was a guest speaker at E-Lac, and it just kind of reminded me again

[3:27:35] that E-Lac is actually in the city of Maury Park.

[3:27:37] So, even though it's East LA College, it's in the city of my park, and we have a junior college in our city.

[3:27:48] I did the food tour, and I do want to note that two meetings ago, we closed in the memory of Linda Wilson, our librarian.

[3:28:02] And this time we're going to close the meeting tonight in honor of John Wong, who, as Council Member Lowell mentioned, is the CACA president, as well as a long time volunteer with the city, including the Langley Center.

[3:28:16] So may he rest in peace.

[3:28:17] Good night, we will close out at 9.58.

City Council & Successor Agency

Agenda

Transcript