HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025_03_18 - RegularMINUTES
Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Redlands held in the Council Chambers, Civic
Center, 35 Cajon Street, on March 18, 2025 at 5:00 P.M.
Present: Mario Saucedo, Mayor
Marc Shaw, Mayor Pro Tempore
Paul Barich, Council Member
Eddie Tejeda, Council Member
Denise Davis, Council Member
Staff:Charles M. Duggan, Jr., City Manager; Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney; Jeanne
Donaldson, City Clerk; Phillip Doolittle, City Treasurer; Janice McConnell, Assistant
City Manager; Chris Boatman, Assistant City Manager; Carl Baker, Public Information
Officer; 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 Saucedo 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
None forthcoming
CLOSED SESSION
Conference with Legal Counsel: Initiation of Litigation - Government Code §54956.9(d)(4) (City
Attorney Garcia)
One (1) Case:
Conference with real property negotiators - Government Code §54956.8
(Assistant City Manager Boatman)
Property:APN: 0292-481-93-0000 and 0292-481-94-0000
Agency
Negotiators:
Charles M. Duggan, City Manager; Christopher Boatman, Assistant City
Manager
Negotiating
Party:
Venkateswara R. Paladugu and Geetha K. Paladugu, Trustees of the Paladugu
Family Trust
Under
Negotiation:
Terms of payment and price for possible purchase of property by the City.
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Conference with real property negotiators - Government Code §54956.8
(Assistant City Manager Boatman)
Property:APN: 0171-191-30-0000
Agency
Negotiators:
Charles M. Duggan, City Manager; Christopher Boatman, Assistant City
Manager
Negotiating Party:Char Burgess, President, Redlands Historical Museum Association
Under Negotiation:Terms of possible transfer of the property.
Conference with legal counsel: Existing Litigation - Government Code §54956.9(d)(1)
(City Attorney Garcia)
One (1) Case:
Price v. City of Redlands, San Bernardino Superior Court, Case No. CIVSB 22188021.
RECONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The meeting reconvened at 6:07 P.M. with an invocation by Council Member Tejeda. The Pledge
of Allegiance was conducted by Mentone Elementary School students.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Garcia announced there was no reportable action taken during Closed Session for
Item C.1, C.2. and C.3. Regarding Item C.4, she reported the City Council approved an
agreement to settle pending litigation of Milton Price v. City of Redlands. The settlement
includes a payment to Mr. Price in the amount of $75,000 in exchange for a full release and
waiver of liability as to the City of Redlands. The settlement was unanimously approved, with
motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Shaw and seconded by Council Member Tejeda. Once fully
executed, the agreement will be on file in the City Clerk’s office.
PRESENTATIONS
Retirement Recognition
Council Members offered their praise and appreciation of the contributions of Multimedia
Production Coordinator Cheryl Williams, who will be retiring next week. She has brought her
passion and enthusiasm to her daily duties, always ready to offer an encouraging word and smile
to everyone. She was thanked for her diligence and dedication to filming all City Council and
Planning Commission meetings, and she will be greatly missed.
Trinity Community Foundation
Emma Osterberg, Executive Director of Micah House, expressed her deep appreciation and
gratitude for the ongoing support the City has provided over the years and presented a plaque to
the Council. The Trinity Community Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on
promoting healthy child development and connecting families to resources, with a mission to
bring love, play, and connection to the community.
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PUBLIC COMMENT
Mall Site Facing Foreclosure - Dennis Bell commented on the sad state of the mall site and
thought the City missed an opportunity to purchase it when it went into bankruptcy for the first
time several years ago, and he saw it as failed leadership when the parking lot across from the
Frontier building was sold.
Aggressive Tow Trucks - Michael Paisner raised concerns about recent activity of aggressive
tow trucks patrolling the downtown area and towing cars. He suggested the City be proactive in
ensuring the signage downtown is clearly marked and is visible and easy to understand.
Autism Acceptance Month - Maia Pawooskar requested the City consider declaring the month
of April 2025 as National Autism Acceptance Month.
SCAQMD Rules 1111 & 1121 - Gregory Brittain thought the pending rules proposed by
SCAQMD would be outrageously expensive and a huge burden on the public. If implemented,
he was worried the grid capacity would be taxed and unable to handle the power needs of the
community in the future.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Minutes
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, the regular meeting minutes of March 4,
2025.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Proclamation March 31, 2025 Cesar E. Chavez Day
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, the issuance of a proclamation declaring
March 31, 2025, as Cesar E. Chavez Day.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Adopt Ordinance No. 2979
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Ordinance No. 2979 amending Chapter 5.04
of the Redlands Municipal Code relating to Business Licenses, standardizing business license
payment schedules to align with the calendar year and clarifying ambiguous language.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
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Adopt Ordinance No. 2980
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Adopt Ordinance No. 2980 to amend and
restate Chapter 5.08 of the Redlands Municipal Code relating to Business Licenses,
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
2024 Annual Progress Reports General Plan & Housing Element
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously agreed, by roll call vote, to receive and file the 2024 Annual
Progress Reports for the General Plan and the 2021-2029 Housing Element. Staff completed
the 2024 Annual Progress Reports and will submit each to the State as required by law.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
NPDES Common Interest, Joint Defense, And Confidentiality Agreement
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously authorized, by roll call vote, the Mayor to execute the San
Bernardino County Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System - National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) Common Interest, Joint Defense, And Confidentiality
Agreement Among Permittees on behalf of the City of Redlands.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8670 EECBG Grant Acceptance
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously accepted, by roll call vote, the U. S. Department of Energy Office
of State and Community Energy Program EECBG funding for the amount of $133,300;
authorized an additional appropriation in the amount of $133,300; and adopted Resolution No.
8670 authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to execute the U. S. Department of Energy
Office of State and Community Energy Programs Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block
Grant Program (EECBG) Agreement and all other related documents necessary for the grant.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Resolution No. 8668 Time Extension CRA 938 & CUP 1187
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Resolution No. 8668, approving a
one-year Extension of Time to the expiration date of Commission Review & Approval No.
938 and Conditional Use Permit No. 1187 for the construction of a 181,100 square-foot
warehouse building with 4,000 square feet of office space on a 9.44-acre project site is located
at 350 Iowa Street (APN: 0292-158-16-0000).
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
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Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Traffic and Parking Commission Annual Report
Municipal Utilities and Engineering Director Harris announced the Annual Report for the
Traffic and Parking Commission (TPC) summarizing the Commission's accomplishments for
the previous year, in compliance with Chapter 2.48 of the Redlands Municipal Code, was
attached to the staff report. As public comment, Andy Hoder stated the TPC chose to submit
a written report, rather than address the Council in person. As a Commissioner himself, he
described a sense of discord or dissension within the group. Due to this tension, he felt
compelled to submit his resignation, with a formal letter to follow.
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously agreed, by roll call vote, to receive and file the Annual Report of
the Traffic and Parking Commission as prepared for the staff report.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
COMMUNICATIONS
New Hire Onboarding Video
Human Resources/Risk Management Director Meteau, HR Manager Kisha McDonald, HR
Analyst Marina Walker, and HR Specialist Angie Vizcarra unveiled the New Hire
Onboarding Video, which will serve as a strategic tool in providing new employees with a
warm welcome while ensuring they receive an overview of the City's mission and workplace
culture.
Library Board Annual Report
Board President William Hatfield provided the annual report of the Library Board of
Trustees with an update of accomplishments and activities over the past year. Some
highlights included increased circulation, especially in the e-Library program, the increasing
popularity of a wide range of entertainment and educational programming, Smiley Live!, a
series of monthly musical concerts that offer a wide range of musical styles. The adult
literacy program has continued to grow and have a positive impact, garnering state funding
and recognition. Smiley Heritage Tours showcase Redlands cultural sites for all RUSD
fourth graders. The policy of doing away with late fees has proven to be a success. The
Redlands Museum is on the verge of becoming a reality, with an anticipated opening
sometime this fall. Mr. Hatfield did point out the 127-year-old library building does face
certain infrastructure needs. They were grateful the boiler system was replaced last year in
October, with staff thrilled to have heat again, and they looked forward to seeing work begin
soon on the lower-level elevator. He thanked the City for their support. Council Members
extended their sincere appreciation of the Board's dedication towards fulfilling the Smiley
Brother's vision.
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Measure T Citizens' Oversight Committee Annual Report
Vice Chairman Scott Welsh presented the annual report of the Measure T Citizens' Oversight
Committee for FY 2024. The Committee provides oversight of Measure T sales tax revenue,
and the Report covered the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. During
FY 2024, the City received a total of $20,194,305 in Measure T sales tax. This was roughly
$241,305 higher than the budget estimate provided at mid-biennium (November 2023). This
overperformance of a little more than 1% indicates a stable local economy. In FY 2023, sales
tax exceeded budgeted figures by over 10%. Moving forward, future budgets are more likely
to reflect conservative estimates for sales tax revenues as the City remains braced for
economic uncertainty.
Measure T enabled investment into enhancing and restoring certain “quality of life”
amenities and services for the community. Some examples of this include: Animal Shelter
Improvements, Parks Master Plan, Homelessness Solutions, the Library, Park Infrastructure,
improvements to the Joslyn Senior Center, and recreational and downtown programs.
Measure T remains essential for funding city services and infrastructure projects and the local
revenue from Measure T, combined with economic growth, helps maintain the services and
infrastructure that Redlands residents rely on. The Committee recognizes that Measure T
reflects commitment from Redlands residents and believes the funds are being used as
intended. The Members recommended they be given an opportunity to offer input during the
budgetary process before the budget is adopted, as this will allow the Committee to perform
their oversight duties more effectively.
Other Committee Members present included Chairwoman Toni Momberger, Ruth Cook, Ed
Millican and Don Young. Ms. Momberger announced her goodbyes and explained that, due
to council member redistricting, she no longer lives in District 4. She said it was her honor to
serve on the committee and thanked her colleagues, City staff and the Council Members for
their trust.
Resolution No. 8663 Policy for Proclamations, Certificates, & Awards
Mayor Saucedo opened the discussion relating to Resolution No. 8663, establishing a policy
for proclamations, certificates, and awards. The City routinely issues awards, certificates,
and proclamations to recognize outstanding service or achievements by organizations,
individuals, or important community events, as well as cultural celebrations. He pointed out
that currently, there is no formal policy establishing guidelines for the issuance of
proclamations, certificates, and awards, nor is there a policy of formal procedures for
requesting recognition by the City Council.
The general provisions of the proposed policy include: 1) All forms of recognition are signed
solely by the Mayor on behalf of the entire City Council. 2) The Mayor, or in the Mayor’s
absence the Mayor Pro Tempore, will present recognitions on behalf of the City Council.
Alternatively, the Mayor may designate a Council Member or city official to present a
recognition. 3) Commissioners/Board Members/Committee members may not issue any
official recognition on behalf of the City or in their official capacity as commissioners or
members of any board or committee. 4) Recognition may only be issued where there is a
clear nexus or connection to the community of Redlands. Recognitions, when applicable,
will only be presented at one City Council meeting. 5) Recognition will not be issued for
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campaigns or events contrary to city policy, matters of politics, or for personal ideological or
religious beliefs.
As public comment, Michael Paisner, Valerie Taber, David Armstrong, Roux Whitmore, and
Julie Houston raised questions regarding the proposed policy, suggesting the process for
submitting a request to issue a proclamation was not clear, and the proposal lacked clearly
defined terms. Terminology, they said, was vague and uncertain, included language such as
"matter of politics" and "personal ideological or religious belief". There was concern the
mayor was assigned too much power in making the final decisions, as all requests would be
filtered through the mayor, and they wondered why this policy was even necessary, when the
current process appeared to be working fine.
Council Members discussed the merits of the proposed policy at length. Mayor Saucedo
stated that much of what was included in the proposal was currently in practice and the
policy would provide guidelines which would be helpful for staff. Council Member Davis
was concerned about the language in Sections 2 and 3, which seemed to limit council
members' ability to participate in the process and make presentations during a meeting. She
thought the terms "nexus to Redlands" and "personal ideological" were vague, and she asked
for clarity. Council Member Barich recommended the item be tabled so that staff could
revise certain sections. Overall, Council Member Tejeda supported the policy. Mayor Pro
Tem Shaw pushed his colleagues to find common ground and suggested that, by amending
certain verbiage in Sections 2 and 3, a compromise could be had. Council Members
ultimately agreed to revise Section 2.b and Section 3.d of the exhibit to Resolution No. 8663.
A motion was made by Council Member Tejeda to adopt Resolution No. 8663 in its current
form. Motion failed with no second.
On motion of Mayor Pro Tem Marc Shaw, seconded by Mayor Mario Saucedo, the City
Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, to amend the Exhibit to Resolution No.
8663, to include the following revisions: Section 2 language changed to: Section 2.b "The
sponsoring Council Member will present recognitions on behalf of the City Council, except
when absent, the Mayor or Mayor Pro Tem will perform the duties." ; and Section 3
language changed to: Section 3.d "Requests for proclamations must be made to the City
Manager's office."
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Mayor Mario Saucedo, the City
Council unanimously approved, by roll call vote, amended Resolution No. 8663, establishing a
policy for proclamations, certificates, and awards.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
SCAQMD Proposed Rule 1111 & Rule 1121
Mayor Pro Tem Shaw reviewed his request for Council to consider taking action regarding
South Coast Air Quality Management District's (SCAQMD) Proposed Amended Rule 1111
(Reduction of NOx Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces) and Proposed Amended
Rule 1121 (Reduction of NOx Emissions from Residential-Type, Natural Gas-Fired Water
Heaters). Representing SCAQMD, Michael Krause reported on the recent revisions made to
Rule 1111 and Rule 1121 and attempted to dispel any misunderstandings that existed. He
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said the rules will allow consumers to choose between gas units and zero-emission units and
manufacturers can continue to offer consumers gas units or zero-emission units. He added the
proposed rules are expected to achieve a reduction of 6 tons per day of NOx emissions from
residential building appliances. These proposals have been in development for over two
years, during which time, SCAQMD has held more than 100 stakeholder meetings. Mr.
Krause clarified that the target deadlines for transitioning are directed at the manufacturers
and not at the consumer.
As public comment, Dale Broome and Rachel Eugley were opposed to SCAQMD's proposed
rules, even with the revised language. Their concerns focused on grid reliability, the lack of
consumer options, and they thought the premise of the rules was based on false science. In
support of the proposed rules, Michael Paisner, Jennifer Cardenas, of the Sierra Club, Yarli
Olazabal and Andrea, of PCEJ spoke to the need to push for programs that can reduce NOx
emissions, stating the threat of climate change is real. SCAQMD efforts are vital for the
overall well-being of the community and will bring about cleaner air.
Council Member Barich raised questions about the true value and benefit of the proposed
rules. Council Member Davis stated that because this region has the worst air pollution in the
nation, action must be taken, and she requested to see the most recent revisions in order to
make an informed decision. Mayor Pro Tem Shaw agreed to table the matter and possibly
revise the letter.
On motion of Council Member Paul Barich, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Marc Shaw, the
City Council unanimously agreed, by roll call vote, to table the matter in order to provide
additional time to review the revised versions of SCAQMD Proposed Rule 1111 and Proposed
Rule 1121.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
Mid-Year General Fund Budget Review for Fiscal Year 2025
Management Services/Finance Director Garcia gave a broad overview of the Mid-Year
General Fund Budget for Fiscal Year 2025. She explained the review provided an
opportunity to evaluate the City’s financial performance in the current fiscal year relative to
the Adopted FY 2025 Budget, using actual results from the first seven months of FY 2025.
The presentation reviewed the recommendations, analyzed the financial outcomes from FY
2024, assessed the City’s current fiscal standing, and considered the broader economic
conditions and other key factors that may influence the General Fund going forward.
Based on this assessment, the City Manager and staff recommended targeted, additional
appropriations for FY 2025 to fund projects/expenses that 1) Increase revenue, 2) Represent
critical department needs, 3) Increase risk management reserves. She detailed the
recommendations, with funds going towards projects such as the 6th Street Parking Structure
Repairs, Fire Department command and support vehicles, Police Department in-car radio
replacements, and expanding Recreation contract classes (100% revenue offset). She listed
several significant capital projects for FY 2025, including the construction of Fire Station
262 retrofit and enhancements, the initiation of a design and construction management
services agreement for the new Safety Hall, and funding for various improvements to public
infrastructure.
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Several financial risks could impact the City's budget, particularly as they are not currently
included in the financial forecast. These risks include future MOU negotiations in FY 2026,
the Class and Compensation Study, construction contingencies for Safety Hall, costs
associated with the operation of the Museum of Redlands, the construction & staffing of new
fire stations, and the Step Up In Redlands Supportive Housing Project. While the fiscal
impact of these factors remains uncertain, they have the potential to disrupt the structural
balance of the budget. Given these uncertainties, careful monitoring and strategic financial
planning will be essential to mitigate potential long-term budgetary impacts. While the City's
budget remains resilient, these external variables warrant continued monitoring to ensure
fiscal sustainability and adaptability in the face of evolving economic conditions.
She announced the next major budget discussions would occur in May and June 2025, when
the City Council will receive the City Manager’s recommendations for potential revisions or
adjustments to the adopted biennial budget for FY 2025 and 2026. As public comment,
Dennis Bell voiced various concerns, including why the state's grant funding for the Museum
had not been released yet. He was worried the Museum would become an albatross hanging
over the taxpayer. He wasn't convinced that repair work on the 6th Street Parking Structure
was money well spent, he questioned why facility maintenance was not addressed in the
budget, and he urged the City for more transparency in the budgeting process. Council
Members thanked Director Garcia and her staff for their hard work.
On motion of Council Member Eddie Tejeda, seconded by Council Member Denise Davis, the
City Council unanimously agreed, by roll call vote, to approve additional appropriations and
adjustments as outlined in Attachment A-1: FY 2024-25 Mid-Year Adjustments for the
General Fund; waived the addition to the four (4) General Fund Reserve categories per
Resolution No. 7346 in favor of other, more targeted adjustments; and moved to receive and
file this report.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Resolution No. 8669 TVSP Amending Sign Regulations
Mayor Saucedo declared the meeting open as a public hearing and called on Senior Planner
Kevin Beery for a report on Resolution No. 8669 for Amendment No. 2 to the Transit
Villages Specific Plan (Specific Plan No. 65) to update the sign regulations within the Transit
Villages Specific Plan. The updated regulations include the following items: 1) Require
uniform sign programs for multi-tenant developments that meet specific criteria; 2) Allow
freestanding multi-tenant signs in unified centers under defined conditions; 3) Remove a
restriction on building sign location; 4) Remove certain restrictions and review procedures
applying to murals; and 5) Other minor text edits to improve clarity and consistency.
The Transit Villages Specific Plan (TVSP) (Specific Plan No. 65) was adopted on October
22, 2022, and the accompanying Environmental Impact Report was also certified and
adopted on October 22, 2022. The entire TVSP area covers approximately 947 acres (or 1.5
square miles). The proposed amendment focuses on changes to sign regulations which would
apply throughout the specific plan area. Additionally, the proposed text amendment includes
minor edits to Chapter 4 to improve clarity and consistency. These edits do not change
existing regulations. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on January 28, 2025,
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and recommended that the City Council approve the proposed amendment with no
modifications.
No written comments were received and with no further discussion, Mayor Saucedo closed
the public hearing. Mr. Beery pointed out a typo was found in the Resolution and Section 4.b
should be removed. The paragraph to be removed reads as: 4.b. "In order to avoid
sign-clutter, signage shall only be allowed on facades that have building entrances."
On motion of Mayor Pro Tempore Marc Shaw, seconded by Council Member Paul Barich, the
City Council unanimously adopted, by roll call vote, Resolution No. 8669, approving
Amendment No. 2 to the Transit Villages Specific Plan, with an amendment to remove Section
4-b from Resolution No. 8669; and determined that the proposal is exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act pursuant to section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines.
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Community Day of Service - Council Members participated in the Day of Service, hosted by
the Redlands Service Club Council. A big thanks went to every volunteer and the Mayor
offered recognition to all those involved in the coordination and planning of the event and
gave special thanks to the Facilities and Community Services staff.
Mayor Saucedo attended the Omnitrans meeting, the Redlands Community Hospital
Radiation Therapy groundbreaking activity, participated in a transportation forum hosted by
Cal State San Bernardino, and represented the City at grand openings for Big Design,
Embroidery & Printing and Charming Massage Therapy.
Mayor Pro Tem Shaw spoke at the Redlands Chamber Rise and Shine, participated in the
recent RCRC gathering, and attended his first Library Board meeting. He and City Manager
Duggan presented at Leadership Redlands.
Council Member Barich attended the SBCTA meeting, the Redlands Community Hospital
Radiation Therapy groundbreaking event, was pleased to have nominated Pat Williams, of
Angels Closet, as a Woman of Distinction, and enjoyed the annual Redlands Bowl event
announcing the upcoming summer program.
Council Member Davis participated in another Blue Zone Walk, hosted this year's "wrap-up"
Youth Council meeting, attended Redlands Community Hospital Radiation Therapy
groundbreaking event, and enjoyed the University of Redlands "All In Giving Day" held on
March 18.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further action required the meeting adjourned at 8:47 P.M. The next regular
meeting of the City of Redlands City Council will be held on April 1, 2025.
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