HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024_07_02 - RegularMINUTES
Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Redlands held in the Council Chambers, Civic
Center, 35 Cajon Street, on July 2, 2024 at 5:00 P.M.
Present: Eddie Tejeda, Mayor
Paul Barich, Mayor Pro Tempore
Denise Davis, Council Member
Jenna Guzman -Lowery, Council Member
Mario Saucedo, Council Member
Staff:
Charles M. Duggan, Jr., City Manager; Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney; Jeanne
Donaldson, City Clerk; Phillip Doolittle, City Treasurer; Chris Boatman, Assistant City
Manager; Danielle Garcia, Management Services/Finance Director; Brian Desatnik,
Development Services Director; John Harris, Municipal Utilities and Engineering
Director; Rich Sessler, Fire Chief; Rachel Tolber, Police Chief; Tabitha Crocker,
Facilities and Community Services Director; Robert Meteau, HR/Risk Management
Director
Mayor Tejeda called the meeting to order and explained that comments could be presented
in -person, via Zoom, via cell phone or landline. He offered the public an opportunity to provide
comment on any item on the agenda for the closed session.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Raising Questions - Steve Rogers wondered why the performance evaluations for the City
Manager and the City Attorney were being considered at this time, when it seemed to him the
contracts were not due for negotiation. He raised concerns about the labor negotiation team and
asked for resolution to what he called a simple matter of a dispute he had with the City.
CLOSED SESSION
Conference with legal counsel: Existing Litigation - Government Code §54956.9(d)(1)
(City Attorney Garcia)
Two Cases:
a. Atkinson v. City of Redlands, et al., San Bernardino Superior Court Case No.
CIVSB2224706
b. Coyote Aviation Corporation, et al. v. City of Redlands, et al., San Bernardino Superior
Court, Case No. CIVSB2418252
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a. Performance Evaluations of Public Employees — Government Code §54957(b)(1)
Positions: City Attorney and City Manager
b. Conference with Labor Negotiator — Government Code §54957.6
(Assistant City Manager McConnell)
Agency Negotiators:
Unrepresented
Employees:
Mayor Tejeda and Mayor Pro Tempore Barich
City Manager
RECONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The meeting reconvened at 6:12 P.M. with an invocation by Council Member Guzman -Lowery
followed by the pledge of allegiance to the American flag.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Garcia announced that under Item Closed Session, C-la, consideration of
Atkinson v. City of Redlands, et al., San Bernardino Superior Court Case No. CIVSB2224706,
the City Council unanimously approved to settle the lawsuit with Ms. Atkinson in the amount of
$175,000 and the cost of mediation, by motion of Mayor Pro Tem Barich, seconded by Council
Member Saucedo. There was no reportable action taken on all other closed session matters.
PRESENTATIONS
Redlands Pet Adoption
Animal Services Supervisor Jodi Kroeger and Kennel Attendant Hailey Stuck introduced
"Rosa", a two -year -old female Pit Bull, who is available for adoption, along with forty-three
other dogs and fifteen cats at the Redlands Animal Shelter. Ms. Kroeger informed the Council
there had been eighteen dogs and thirty cats adopted in June 2024. She announced the Shelter
was full, and all dog adoption fees would be waived.
Juneteenth Proclamation
Council Member Saucedo presented Juneteenth Proclamations to Bishop Green, Maria Saucedo,
LaRena Garcia, Shawn Zambrows, and Jay Strovall.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Various Concerns - Steve Rogers read from a letter he sent to the Council Members, regarding
the City's delegation of engineering duties, and he asked for a follow-up response to matters he
discussed with Police Chief Tolber and HR/Risk Management Director Meteau. He requested
written confirmation from BB&K that the matter was closed.
City Manager Duggan clarified that the State Board of Professional Engineers declined to take
any action on the complaint submitted by Mr. Rogers.
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RPOA and Event Activities - Jeff Frisch, representing the Redlands Police Officers
Association (RPOA) expressed frustration with the group who organized an event held last
weekend at Sylvan Park where coloring sheets were distributed depicting a burning police car.
Police officers, working the event, found it very offensive, and they were disappointed with
those Council Members who attended and appeared to support the activities. He said the RPOA
consistently strives to foster relationships within the community, especially with young people.
Pride Awareness Event - Ashley Williamson and Felipe Albertao spoke about the coloring
page distributed at the Pride awareness event and said the images represented the history of the
Stonewall incident in New York.
U.S. Flag Donation - Dr. Ramarrishna Tadi donated a United States flag that had been flown at
the U.S. capital.
South Mountain Water Shares - Elizabeth Long said the City should not be in the business of
selling water shares and, in particular, she opposed the recent sale of the South Mountain water
shares. David Armstrong said he was still waiting for answers to why the City sold off the
shares, along with 55 acres of land, and he thought it was poor optics for the Council to
consider raising water rates at this time. Zoom caller Shay also asked for answers, and he urged
the City to suspend action to increase water rates.
City Manager Duggan announced that everyone with questions about the sale of South
Mountain water shares was welcome to attend the Utilities Advisory Committee meeting
scheduled for later this month, where the City can respond in full. He pointed out that staff had
responded to Mr. Armstrong earlier in the day, and before taking any action to sell the shares,
the City received an appraisal and legal advice.
City Vehicles - Dennis Bell questioned why some City employees were driving 4-wheel drive
trucks, since he thought it unnecessary and a waste of money.
RUSD Summer Meals Program - Alyssa Cummings and Jennifer Petty announced the
Redlands Unified School District (RUSD) summer meal program was in full swing, and they
encouraged all families with children to come to one of their locations throughout the City,
where meals will be enjoyed onsite.
Separation of Church and State - Bruce Laycook urged the Council to be mindful of the
importance of separation of church and state.
Pride Flag - Anthony Dodd pointed out there are two city flagpoles in front of City Hall, and he
urged the Council to fly the pride flag.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Minutes
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, the regular meeting minutes of
June 18, 2024.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
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Juneteenth Proclamation
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously authorized, by roll call vote, the issuance of a
Proclamation recognizing Juneteenth..
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8597 Records Retention Schedule
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Resolution No. 8597 concerning
a Records Retention Schedule and rescinding Resolution No. 6576.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8608 Appropriations Limit for Fiscal Year 2024-2025
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Resolution No. 8608
establishing an Appropriations Limit for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 pursuant to Article XIII B of the
California Constitution.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Annual Payment RPD Fingerprint Identification Services
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously authorized, by roll call vote, the annual payment to San
Bernardino County Sheriffs Department (Cal-ID/Identix) in the amount of $84,926 for Redlands
Police Department's Fingerprint Identification Services.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8603 Street Vacation No. 194
This item was pulled from tonight's meeting to allow staff time to conduct additional research.
The matter will be scheduled for a future meeting.
As public comment, Duncan Shantz, the owner of Jadeland Developments, offered some
historical context related to his request to vacate portions of Mecca Street adjacent to the
parcels he owns, which, he said, will allow potential future property improvements or
development of the properties without further concern about encroachment into the public
right-of-way.
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MOU RUSD School Resource Officer Program
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, the Memorandum of
Understanding between the City of Redlands and the Redlands Unified School District for
the School Resource Officer Program.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Adopt Ordinance Nos. 2969 and 2970 Assessments for LMD and SLD
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Ordinance No. 2969,
confirming a diagram and assessment for the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year in connection with
Landscape Maintenance District No. 1; and adopted Ordinance No. 2970, confirming a
diagram and assessment for the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year in connection with Street Lighting
District No. 1.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Equipment Rental Agreement
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that approval of the rental
agreement is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to
Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA guidelines; approved the equipment lease with C5
Equipment Rentals for the 3-month rental extension of a D8 Dozer in the amount of $53,160;
and approved a sole source purchase order modification to a not -to -exceed total of $141,760.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
In -kind Support for the Jagannath Rath Yatra Event
Facilities and Community Services Director Crocker introduced the request for in -kind
support in the amount of $8,446 relating to the Jagannath Rath Yatra event hosted by the
Shri Darshan on July 13, 2024 and the request to close Church St., E Colton Ave., Division
St., and E High Ave. for the event. As public comment, Dennis Bell noted he thought this
was the first year the event was scheduled in Redlands, and he urged the Council to focus on
paying the bills and addressing more critical needs, rather than approving every in -kind
request presented to them.
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Mario
Saucedo, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that approval of the
request for the event Jagannath Rath Yatra is exempt from environmental review pursuant to
Section 15311 of the State's guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality
Act; authorized and approved a request for in -kind support in the amount of
$8,446.00 relating to this event; and authorized the temporary closure of Church St., E Colton
Ave., Division St., and E High Ave., on July 13, 2024.
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Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8605 FY 24/25 - FY 28/29 Five -Year Measure I CIP
Municipal Utilities and Engineering Director Harris reviewed Resolution No. 8605 for the
FY 24/25 through FY 28/29 Five -Year Measure I Capital Improvement Plan, explaining this
was an administrative action, so the City is eligible to receive funds. As public comment,
Steve Rogers asked if the amount listed in the staff report as $20 million was a typo.
Director Harris confirmed it was a typo and the amount should be listed as $2 million.
Dennis Bell stated that SBCTA was working on a tax measure to go before the voters
related to Measure I, and he said the program needs a thorough audit, because in his opinion,
there was very little to show for the funds that had been collected.
On motion of Council Member Mario Saucedo, seconded by Council Member Jenna
Guzman -Lowery, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that
approval of Resolution No.8605 is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section
15061(b)(3) of the State's guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act;
and approved Resolution No. 8605 for the Fiscal Year 24/25 through Fiscal Year 28/29
Five -Year Measure I Capital Improvement Plan.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Sampling and Special Analytical Services Agreement
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member Denise
Davis, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that approval of a
Professional Services Agreement with ALS Group USA, Corp. is exempt from environmental
review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State's guidelines implementing the California
Environmental Quality Act; and approved the Professional Services Agreement with ALS
Group USA, Corp. for sampling and special analytical services with an initial one (1) year
term in the amount of $34,000, with options to extend for two (2) additional one-year terms,
for a total potential amount not -to -exceed $102,000.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
COMMUNICATIONS
Use of Zoom and Teleconferencing
Council Member Saucedo opened the discussion related to the use of Zoom and
Teleconferencing under Assembly Bill (AB) 2449 for City Council and Planning
Commission meetings. He explained that he brought this item back for the Council to
evaluate the policy again because of the hate speech received by three Zoom callers during
the May 7, 2024 Council meeting. He thought open dialogue with the public would be useful.
On July 25, 2023, the City Council authorized the continued use of Zoom and allowed
remote participation pursuant to AB 2449 for all meetings of the City Council and Planning
Commission. City Manager Duggan offered three options to consider, including: 1)
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Continue the use of Zoom for all meetings of the City Council and Planning
Commission and to comply with teleconferencing requirements as described in AB 2449; 2)
Authorize the continued use of Zoom only when City Council members or Planning
Commissioners are complying with the requirements of AB 2449; 3) Discontinue the use of
Zoom for all meetings of the City Council and the Planning Commission (and all
commissions, boards and committees) and only allow remote participation under the Brown
Act's traditional, pre -pandemic teleconferencing rules. Staff conducted a brief survey to
determine how many municipalities in the surrounding area exercise remote participation
under AB 2449 for City Council meetings. Of the 14 municipalities contacted, three use AB
2449, eleven follow traditional Brown Act rules.
As public comment, seventeen people, including Germaine Miles, Michael Paisner,
Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Evan Sanford, Maria Bruner representing
Assemblymember Eloise Reyes, Jen Kim, Felipe Albertao, Rudi Whitmore, Marcella
Wallin, Valerie Taber, Laura Kreneck, Trisha Keeling, Ashley Williamson, Ryan, Eddie D.,
Amber, Gregory Brittain, and Jennifer Maravillas spoke in support of continuing Zoom as a
way to engage the public, promote equal and fair access, and they thought the benefits far
outweighed any fears of hate speech from Zoom callers or any technical glitches that might
be experienced. Several people said the City should be encouraging public participation, not
discouraging it.
City Attorney Garcia added that speech, even hate speech, was protected under the 1st
Amendment. Council Members voiced their perspectives and agreed that Zoom was a
valuable tool for all kinds of people, including parents of young children and those whose
work schedules prevented them from attending in person. They recognized the desired goal
was to promote transparency and offer access to everyone, and there was added value as
remote attendees were helping to reduce their carbon footprint.
On motion of Mayor Pro Tempore Paul Barich, seconded by Council Member Jenna
Guzman -Lowery, the City Council unanimously authorized, by roll call vote, the continued
use of Zoom for all meetings of the City Council and Planning Commission and to comply
with teleconferencing requirements as described in AB 2449.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
League of California Cities Annual Conference Voting Delegate
City Manager Duggan reviewed the need to designate a voting delegate and an alternate to
the 2024 League of California Cities Annual Conference scheduled to occur October 16-18,
2024 in Long Beach.
On motion of Mayor Pro Tempore Paul Barich, seconded by Mayor Eddie Tejeda, the City
Council unanimously designated, by roll call vote, Council Member Mario Saucedo to serve
as the voting delegate; and designated Council Member Denise Davis to serve as the alternate
voting delegate for the League of California Cities 2024 Annual Conference.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
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Mayor Tejeda called for a brief recess at 8:16 P.M. The meeting reconvened at 8:21 P.M.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Development Off-street Parking Facility for Trucks
Mayor Tejeda opened the public hearing and called on Principal Planner Sean Reilly, of
Development Services, for a summary of Resolution No. 8606 related to applications for a
four -acre parcel located at 2407 W. Lugonia Avenue within the Special Development
(EV/SD) District of the East Valley Corridor Specific Plan, as submitted by the Applicant,
LBA RVI-COMPANY XLVII, LLC. The applications included: 1) Planned Development
No. 9, to establish permitted uses, conditionally permitted, and development standards
consistent with the Commercial Industrial (EV/IC) District of the East Valley Corridor
Specific Plan to allow development of an off-street parking facility for trucks, trailers, cabs
and other fleet vehicles; and 2) Conditional Use Permit (CUP) No. 1194, for authorization to
operate an off-street truck parking facility with existing on -site improvements (paving,
storm water detention facilities, landscaping, site lighting, fencing and gate) and the
construction of a proposed 310 square -foot guard house with restroom facilities.
On April 23, 2024, the Planning Commission voted 5 to 0 recommending that the City
Council approve Planned Development No. 9 and on May 28, 2024, the Commission voted
5 to 0 recommending that the Council approve CUP No. 1194. The applicant, represented
by Jonathan Shardlow, addressed Council Member questions, stating the developer had been
able to remedy noise complaints, and he thanked staff for their time and assistance. There
were no written comments received and with no further discussion, Mayor Tejeda closed the
public hearing.
On motion of Mayor Pro Tempore Paul Barich, seconded by Council Member Jenna
Guzman -Lowery, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, the project
qualifies for exemption from environmental review in accordance with Section 15303
(New Construction of Small Structures) and 153332 (Infill Development) of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines; and adopted Resolution No. 8606 to approve
Planned Development No. 9 and Conditional Use Permit No. 9 for 2407 West Lugonia
Avenue.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8571, Ordinance No. 2962, and Ordinance No. 2968 DIF Adjustments
Mayor Tejeda declared the meeting open as a public hearing and called on Municipal
Utilities and Engineering Director Harris for a report on Resolution No. 8571 which will
adopt the Development Impact Fee (DIF) Nexus Study completed by DTA. Ordinance No.
2962 was prepared to amend the Redlands Municipal Code for public facilities (fire, police,
library, and government), open space and parks, transportation improvements, storm drain
facilities, water facilities, water rights, solid waste facilities, and sewer facilities. Ordinance
No. 2962 determines that the specific amounts of fees for new development are to be
established by the City Council. Ordinance No. 2968 was prepared to establish the specific
amounts of DIF for new development. These ordinances apply to the Redlands Municipal
Code's chapters 3.32, 3.44, 3.48, 3.54, 3.56, 3.60, 3.70, and 13.40, with a proposed effective
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date of sixty days after adoption of the ordinances.
The Nexus Study analyzed appropriate fees to fund additional infrastructure and services
necessary to support new growth. The DIF study analyzed fees identified in the Redlands
Municipal Code. The updated DIF study was prepared and finalized by David Taussig and
Associates, Inc. (DTA) on May 2, 2024, and will update the 2017 and 2018 DIF studies. In
addition to the fees analyzed in the 2017 and 2018 DIF studies, the proposed DIF study will
also include updated fees for water facilities, solid waste facilities, sewer facilities, and
acquisition of water stocks and water rights. The fees shall be evaluated periodically to
ensure appropriate revenue is collected from development projects to support expanded
services. Nehal Thumar and Andrea Roess, of DTA, responded to Council Member
questions related to the DIF charges and the legal justification under the code. The study
process established a baseline, considered facility needs, incorporated facility master plans
and quantified impacts.
As public comment, Jonathan Shardlow, of NAIOP, said these were big policy decisions,
and he asked the Council to hold off approval tonight to allow for more time to engage
stakeholders. Ana Gromis, representing the Building Industry Association of Southern
California (BIA), requested the Council amend the effective date of the proposed DIF
update to begin on January 1, 2025, rather than 60 days after adoption, as it would be
unfair to add unanticipated costs to projects that are beginning construction or are currently
in the later stages of review by planning and engineering staff. Steve Rogers complained
that the City's facility master plans were not sufficient, as they were merely guidelines, and
he thought the City was seriously undercharging for development impacts. James
Brownyard, of Desert Valleys Builders Association, added they were still striving to
understand the study results, and he pointed out the fees associated with water supply and
the replacement fire station were listed incorrectly and should be corrected. Gregory Brittain
opposed increasing fees, adding that California's median home price was 2nd highest in the
nation. Two written comments were received from Jonathan Shardlow of NAIOP and Carlos
Rodreguez of BIA, requesting the Council delay approval of the DIF Adjustments. With no
further discussion, Mayor Tejeda closed the public hearing.
Council Members discussed several topics, including compliance with Measure U, the
voter -approved measure relating to growth management, the consideration of delaying the
effective date to January 1, 2025 and how that might affect projects currently in the pipeline,
and establishing a set of new fees to address shortfalls. Any new fee adjustments would
require an additional Nexus Study, and the report must include data supporting any changes.
On motion of Council Member Mario Saucedo, seconded by Mayor Eddie Tejeda, the City
Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that the adoption of Resolution No. 8571,
and the introduction of Ordinance No. 2962, and Ordinance No. 2968 is exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Sections 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental
Quality Act; approved Resolution No. 8571, introduced Ordinance No. 2962; and introduced
Ordinance No. 2968, verbally amending Section 13, setting the effective date to January 1,
2025, related to Development Impact Fees Adjustments.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
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Ordinance Nos 2964 and 2965 Water Utility and Wastewater Utility Rate Adjustments
Mayor Tejeda opened the public hearing and called on Municipal Utilities and
Engineering Director Harris for a presentation of Ordinance No. 2964 and Ordinance No.
2965 Amending Chapters 3.52 and 3.62 of the Redlands Municipal Code relating to Water
Utility and Wastewater Utility Rate Adjustments. He offered background on the Utility
Advisory Committee (UAC) and said the seven members of UAC worked with Municipal
Utilities and Engineering (MUED) staff and the City's Utility Rate Consultant, Raftelis, to
develop rate recommendations that provide adequate revenue to recover costs for services,
are equitable to all customer classes, comply with state and federal laws, and are easily
explained to customers. The UAC serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council.
The rate review process began by introducing the UAC to the MUED structure, water and
wastewater utilities, and 6-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The UAC reviewed
historic and projected operating, maintenance, and CIP costs necessary to provide
high -quality services for Redlands' utility customers. Raftelis presented a financial
analysis including multi -year revenue projections, target reserve balances, and annual
labor and material cost escalations. Several rate scenarios were modeled and considered
by the UAC which ultimately recommended the following revenue adjustments:
Potable Water Utility: 2% increase in FY 24/25; 2% increase in FY 25/26
Non -Potable Water Utility: 0% increase in FY 24/25; 0% increase in FY 25/26
Wastewater Utility: 10% increase in FY 24/25; 10% increase in FY 25/26
The increases will be applied to customer classifications proportionally based on the
demands placed on each utility and will generate the additional revenue necessary to
continue providing water and wastewater utility services for all Redlands customers.
On May 7, 2024, City Council adopted Resolution No. 8583, a notice of intent to increase
water utility and wastewater utility rates and directed staff to issue a Public Hearing
Proposition 218 notice and protest procedures detailed in Resolution No. 7128. The
Proposition 218 notice and Resolution No. 7128 were mailed to each Redlands property
owner and each water utility and wastewater utility customer on May 10, 2024. The notice
provides rate increase protest directions, with one written protest per identified parcel or
property to be counted for determining whether a majority protest exists.
As public comment, Elizabeth Longo, Mario Lopez, Gregory Brittain, Steve Rogers, and
Jennifer Maravillas opposed the rate increases, citing the negative impacts on family
budgets, especially on those with fixed incomes, and the outdated procedures for
submitting a protest. Andy Hoder recalled a time when the Wastewater Treatment Plant
(WWTP) was facing a catastrophic failure, and he said that even though he didn't like the
idea of higher rates, the WWTP needed to be fixed. UAC members Dick Corneille and
Dan Jimenez defended the recommendations, explaining that there was not only the
upfront cost of the WWTP Project itself, but there was also the cost of maintenance.
Dennis Bell attributed the rate increase to failed leadership, and he pointed out the
consultant estimated the total cost was $110 million and not $45 million as stated by staff.
Director Harris responded by saying that yes, the ultimate total cost of the project was
estimated at $110 million, but the cost to perform the immediate needs was accurately
stated at $45 million.
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City Clerk Donaldson informed the Council that 19,973 properties received a Proposition
218 notice with directions to make a formal protest. She announced that her office
received 73 written protests declaring their opposition to a water and wastewater rate
increase. This number is insufficient to meet the 50% plus one (or 11,172), required for a
successful Proposition 218 protest to stop implementation of the new rates. With no
further comments, the Mayor closed the hearing. Council Member discussion focused on
concerns raised by public comments and the serious need to address the WWTP repairs.
They asked staff to look into establishing an assistance program and to consider ways to
effectively educate the community.
On motion of Council Member Denise Davis, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Paul
Barich, the City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Ordinance No. 2964, and
Ordinance No. 2965 to amend Redlands Municipal Code Chapters 3.52 and 3.62 relating to
Water Utility and Wastewater Utility rate adjustments.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
NEW BUSINESS
Greenhouse Gas Inventory Update and Progress Report
Assistant Planner Jazmin Serrato, of Development Services, provided a brief overview of
the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory Update and Progress Report related to the Climate
Action Plan Update project. The two primary objectives of the Climate Action Plan
Update are 1) To monitor/benchmark progress toward the 2030 and 2035 GHG reduction
targets established in the City's 2017 Climate Action Plan, which was prepared
concurrently with the 2035 General Plan and consistent with previous State GHG
reduction goals; and 2) To update the 2017 Climate Action Plan to reflect the latest
climate science and State guidance, as well as align with new City and State targets for
2030 and 2045. As a "qualified" GHG reduction plan, the updated Climate Action Plan
will provide unified City actions, and CEQA clearance for streamlining future projects.
She introduced Mayu Tanaka, Senior Associate with Dyett & Bhatia for a more thorough
and detailed update related to the GHG reduction goals and the potential GHG reduction
strategies and policies. Her presentation was broken into three parts, including background
and purpose, GHG progress report and discussion and suggestions for strategies. Through
a series of slides, she offered case examples, key regulations taken since the City's 2017
CAP and provided a summary of framework strategies: 1) Transportation and natural gas
remain the largest contributors; 2) Agencies cannot eliminate solid waste and wastewater
emissions entirely, and reductions are somewhat limited; and 3) CARB recommends
prioritizing strategies that electrify transportation, decarbonize buildings, and reduce
vehicle miles traveled (VMT)
As public comment, Michael Paisner offered a short history lesson about climate change,
listing statistics, and added that these ideas are not new, and not radical, and he thanked
the City for prioritizing this matter. Bruce Laycook raised several questions about the
state's laws which have dramatically forced a reduction of rooftop solar, and he urged the
Council to support any efforts to incentivize rooftop solar to help lower net electricity
bills. Dick Corneille, of ANCA, fully supported the update report and said the group was
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looking forward to participating with the project in the future. Gregory Brittain said that
climate change theory was a hoax and not based on real facts and the public was being
forced to eliminate the use of their cars. Council Members voiced their appreciation of the
very informative update.
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member
Denise Davis, the City Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, to accept and file
the Climate Action Plan progress report.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Ordinance No. 2972 Levying Special Taxes CFD No. 2004-1
Development Services Director Desatnik presented Ordinance No. 2972 for levying
special taxes within the City of Redlands Community Facilities District (CFD) No.
2004-1. The ordinance is required to levy the special tax in accordance with the California
Streets and Highways Code, and it sets the maximum FY 24/25 CFD tax rates.
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member
Mario Saucedo, the City Council unanimously introduced, by roll call vote, Ordinance No.
2972 levying special taxes within the City of Redlands Community Facilities District No.
2004-1.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Residential Refuse Bins Agreement
Facilities and Community Services Director Crocker reported on an agreement with
Schaefer Plastics North America, LLC for supply and delivery of residential refuse bins
for an amount not -to -exceed $536,984.64 for a period of one year, with two additional
one-year renewal options, for a total amount not -to -exceed $1,610,953.92.
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member
Denise Davis, the City Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, an agreement with
Schaefer Plastics North America, LLC for supply and delivery of residential refuse bins in
an amount not -to -exceed $536,984.64 for a period of one year, with two additional one-year
renewal options, for a total amount not -to -exceed $1,610,953.92.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Professional Services Agreement West Yost & Associates, Inc
Municipal Utilities and Engineering Director Harris introduced the Professional Services
Agreement with West Yost & Associates, Inc. for recycled water, non -potable water, and
cross -connection program support services with an initial term of one year and a value
not -to -exceed $355,000, with options to extend for two additional one-year terms for a
total potential amount not -to -exceed $1,065,000. Since only one bid was received, staff
was requesting the Council approve an exception to Redlands Municipal Code, due to the
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fact that re -soliciting the bid was unlikely to yield different results, given the specialized
nature of the services.
On motion of Council Member Jenna Guzman -Lowery, seconded by Council Member
Mario Saucedo, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that approval
of the Professional Services Agreement with West Yost & Associates, Inc. is exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State's guidelines
implementing the California Environmental Quality Act; approved an exception to
Redlands Municipal Code Section 2.16.180(B) and not require MUED staff to
solicit additional Request for Bid; and approved the Professional Services Agreement with
West Yost & Associates, Inc. for recycled water, non -potable water, and cross -connection
program support services with an initial term of one (1) year and a value not -to -exceed
$355,000, with options to extend for two (2) additional one-year terms.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Joint Utility Laboratory Support Services Agreement
Municipal Utilities and Engineering Director Harris reviewed the Professional Services
Agreement with Eurofins Eaton Analytical, LLC for support services at the Joint Utility
Laboratory for a total potential amount not -to -exceed $360,000.
On motion of Mayor Pro Tempore Paul Barich, seconded by Council Member Jenna
Guzman -Lowery, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that approval
of a Professional Services Agreement with Eurofins Eaton Analytical, LLC. is exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State's guidelines
implementing the California Environmental Quality Act; and approved a Professional
Services Agreement with Eurofins Eaton Analytical, LLC for Joint Utility Laboratory
support services for a total potential amount not -to -exceed $360,000.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8609 Notice of Intent to Increase Solid Waste Utility Service Rates
Assistant City Manager Boatman offered background on Resolution No. 8609 to provide
notice of intent to increase solid waste utility service rates and to direct staff to issue the
required Proposition 218 notice establishing a public hearing date and location. The City
periodically adjusts solid waste service rates to keep pace with the increasing cost of
providing these services. The last time that the City reviewed Solid Waste Rates was
2017, and it has only adjusted solid waste rates ten times over the last thirty years. Garth
Schultz, of R3 Consulting Group, Inc. presented a report detailing the methodology,
findings, and recommendations related to the Solid Waste Service Enterprise Fund and
associated solid waste service rates. Senate Bill (SB) 1383 is State of California
legislation approved in 2016 that requires a reduction in organic waste (food waste, green
waste, paper products, etc.) disposed of in landfills by seventy-five percent (75%), and an
increase in edible food recovery by twenty percent (20%) by 2025.
Staff and R3 held two meetings with the Municipal Utilities Commission (Commission),
on March 18, 2024 and April 15, 2024 to present draft findings and to receive feedback
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and recommendations. The Commission voted unanimously on April 15, 2024 to forward
R3's recommended adjustments to the City's solid waste services to the City Council.
Commission Chair Steve Stockton summarized the work of the Commission, adding that
every member was very sensitive about increasing the rates, and they worked to drive
down the slope with a goal of under 10%, which they were able to do. The Commission
and staff recommended the following solid waste utility service rate increases:
Nine percent (9%) rate increase January 1, 2025; Nine percent (9%) rate increase January
1, 2026; Nine percent (9%) rate increase January 1, 2027; Four percent (4%) rate increase
January 1, 2028.
As public comment, Andy Hoder asked if the City was generating any money on
recyclables or was it a losing proposition. Assistant Director Boatman responded by
saying the program used to be profitable but not any longer. He added that the City works
with vendors who divert the recyclables instead of the materials going straight to the
landfill. This is done in order to meet the diversion rates and be in compliance with the
state.
On motion of Council Member Mario Saucedo, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Paul
Barich, the City Council unanimously determined, by roll call vote, that the adoption of
Resolution No. 8609 is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3)
of the State's guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act; adopted
Resolution No. 8609 providing notice of intent to increase solid waste utility service rates;
and directed staff to issue the required Proposition 218 notice for a public hearing. The
notice will set a public hearing date of September 3, 2024, at which time the City Council
will consider a solid waste rate increase. Should the City Council approve the
recommendation, rates will take effect in January 2025.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Council Member Saucedo and Mayor Pro Tem Barich thanked the Redlands Police
Department for all the good work they are doing to engage the community and to build
relationships.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further action required the meeting adjourned at 11:07 P.M. The next
regular meeting of the City of Redlands City Council will be held on July 16, 2024.
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