City Council Meeting — April 20, 2022

Good evening. City Council of Monterey Park. Council meeting on behalf of the successor agency of the former redevelopment agency, the housing authority, the Monterey Park finding authority and the Monterey Park geologic hazard abitment district agenda regular city council meeting you're at Monterey Park City Hall council chamber that 320 West Newmark. Avenue, Monterey Park, California, 91754, meeting today at April 20, 2022, Wednesday at 6.30

p.m. General information. Documents related to an agenda item are available to the public in the C.D. Cook's office located

at 320 West Newmark Avenue, Monterey Park, California, 91754 during normal business hours and the

City's website at www.monetapark.ca.gov forward slash agenda center forward slash city dash council dash 17.

The public may watch the meeting live on the city's cable channel, MPKTV, also known as AT&T U-verse channel 99 or Charlie Communications channel 182, or by visiting the city's website

website at www.moneypark.ca.gov forward slash 133 forward slash city council city dash council dash meeting dash videos. Public participation. You may speak up to five minutes on agenda item.

You may combine up to two minutes of time with another person speaking.

No person may speak more than a total of 10 minutes.

The mayor and city council may change the amount of time allot for speakers.

Rating communication will be accepted up to 24 hours before the meeting via email to mpeclerk at monopark.ca.gov.

Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please call City Hall at 626-307-1359 for a reasonable accommodation at least 24 hours before a meeting.

Council Chambers are wheelchair accessible.

Let's see, call to order, which I just did. flag salute. Today's flag salute will be provided by the

Mya Park Police Explorer, so please all rise.

Forward, forward, forward.

Pull guard, freeze at hollers.

Call guard, freeze at it, collars.

Mark it over your heart. Ready to begin. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.

and to the Republic for which we stand, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Collar guard, border, collars.

Collar guard, outward, face. Collar guard, forward, march.

Hologuard, pose, color.

Hologuard, about face.

Hologuard, dismissed.

Thank you very much. You're defeated.

Okay. Roll call clerk.

Please call the roll.

Thank you. Council member Yvonne Yu. Here. Council member Peter Chan.

Here.

Council member Hans Liang. Here. Mayor Pro Tem position is vacant.

Mayor Henry Lo. Present. All present. Thank you. Thank you clerk. Public communications. While all comments are welcome, the Brown Act does not allow the City Council to take action on any item not on the agenda. The Council may briefly respond to comments after public communications is closed. Princess may, in addition to any other matter within the City Council's subject matter jurisdiction,

comment on agenda items at this time.

If you provide public comment on a specific agenda item at this time, however,

you cannot later provide comments at the time the agenda item is considered.

Clerk, do we have any requests?

Okay, ready? Sarkis Antonian.

Good evening, mayor, council members, staff, audience, whatever.

Over there at Hillcrest on Monday, other than the crossing guard that has the uniform and the stop sign,

their employees they don't have no vest on or no stop sign

and they're putting their hand out there for you to stop

so that money that measure arm money that can go to the schools

when I go down in Arcadia on Johnny Longden Street there's a school there that got signs all over the place

no U-turn no left turn certain times of the day I don't see it around here that's in Temple City

and the top of our mall with this widening of the street what I'm totally against I go to McDonald's seven days a week so there's enough traffic coming on the westbound side and then once I get out of that McDonald's parking lot so we're going on the westbound side where the divine furniture is and I've called down here many times where that went through one ear out the other They're making left turns over there. It's not even posted. So that backs up the traffic. And I'm 66 as of this month. So when that hand comes up, when you're crossing the street, that's 25 seconds. I can make in about 18 seconds. So what happens? So I'm not there yet, God forbid, that I have to have a walker or a cane. I see those people. I don't care what background you are. it takes them forever to get across street. And I mentioned this before on Orhaman times. It doesn't seem like you're doing anything about it. And on Garvey and Orhaman Avenue, they could put a left arrow right there, and you don't have to have your traffic commission because, again, all you sitting there and your staff, do you go around that area on Garvey? so with this widening of the street the powerhouses that have been there for a long time bank america the shell station r&m body shop and divine furniture you're gonna mess their business up that that is putting the tax dollars into this city to keep it going so figure that out and on top of that the last time to get the food box they decided to put over here at barnes park So I got sclerosis of the spine. I got arthritis in both feet. So I'm walking a 22-pound box where the restrooms are, where the pool is, all the way across where the parallel parking is. And again, I don't care state, city or county events.

You don't have no city employees over there to help the person.

I don't mind lifting that box and putting in the trunk, not carrying that thing, that box halfway across the parking lot because all Langley Center is open now in this COVID stuff.

All excuses.

You just drive through the Langley Center, put the box there. It's only once a month, and you're leaving. So then the box to take it out of the trunk is my responsibility, not carrying a 22-pound box plus maybe a one or two-pound cheese

across this facility, and it's in the city. And then on top of that, the communications,

because they did not speak English, they told them single line. So I was the 98th person. and when I left there was 110 people.

So if you don't explain people in the different languages, like my dad spoke six languages, if you want to put it that way,

they're over there just scattered around. So if you don't have your city employees when it's on city property, then somebody falls like myself carrying a box around. Let's see what I'm going to get accommodated for. It's on city property, so do something about it or move it back to the Lankley Center. it's only one day a week, one day a month. That's it. So look into those things, and thank you. Thank you.

That's it for the oral communication. However, we do have, we did receive some written communication. However, those need to be sent 24 hours prior to the city council meetings.

So we did receive, or the city clerk's office did receive, one communication, which was untimely. However, it is available in the back if anybody wants to take a look at it. And, of course, it's also in your package.

Okay. Thank you very much.

Okay. And moving on to staff communications. We have our first communications, Public Works,

Introduction of Interim Director of Public Works, Anthony Antich. I'm sorry.

Oh, sorry. Okay. Can you hear me now? Okay. Thank you. Okay. City Manager. Thank you, Mayor, Council, community, and audience. I'd like to introduce our interim public works director, Tony Antic. He has over 40 years of professional experience and comes to the Monterey Park with various city government experience he has worked for private and public clients for example he has served as a public works director for the cities of Hermosa Beach Lomita where he was responsible for overall operations of the public works

department including administration maintenance engineering fleet and

utilities water sewer and storm drain in addition he served for nearly 20 years as the city engineer for the City of Santa Monica where he supervised the annual construction of about a hundred million dollars of public improvements finally he was the interim city engineer and interim assistant director of public works of the city of Beverly Hills where he was responsible for street

operations park landscape maintenance fleet maintenance building maintenance

parking operations and city engineering Tony has assisted cities of Culver City and Commerce in revolve resolving numerous operational and management issues in addition mr. Antic has served as a mediator for the Los Angeles County Superior Court alternative dispute resolution program Tony earned a bachelor's of science degree in engineering from Cal State University Long Beach and has a master's from the Business School of Pepperdine University. He is a licensed civil engineer. Tony held leadership positions for several professional societies such as president of the League of California Cities, president of the Los Angeles City and County Engineers Association, and president of Southern California Chapter of American Public Works. He was a union president for labor bargaining the American Society of Civil Engineers recognize him as an outstanding civil engineer in government he has received numerous awards authored several publications and presentations on project management Tony is a proud father to his 22 year old son who is currently completing a degree in biotechnology at Cal Poly Tony loves visiting new places and different cultures. He has visited all continents except one, but there is still time. He enjoys time with his family and enjoys outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and fishing. I'm confident you all will see Tony as a great addition to the City of Monterey Park. In addition, he he has a strong leadership skill his qualifications are impressive his track record of working well with the community seeking input and providing solutions as well as experience working with engaged constituents leading change efforts and building rapport and trust with employees and external stakeholders. Council, public, community, I introduce Tony Antic. Tony?

Well, thank you very much for those very kind words. I just want to say it's a pleasure. It's an honor to be here standing in front of you and stating publicly my dedication to serve this community. I also have something that's coming up and I want you to mark your calendars this is an early preview so may 19th if you could please mark your calendars clear because we're going to have a special event at the public works yard which is an open house so on the may 4th meeting there's going to be a resolution that we're asking you to adopt that'll have more details but it's going to be a great event and i'm not going to tell you anything more about it other than make sure your calendar is clear from 11 to 1 30. and looking forward to working with everybody and meeting everybody in person. Thank you. 11 to 1 30 and looking forward to working with everybody and meeting everybody in person thank you

! Thank you. ! Councillor Chen. Thank you, Mayor.

Mr. ! Mr. ! Please, back to the podium. First of all, welcome to the city of Monterey Park. ! We'll be looking forward to working with you. ! We'll enjoy some Chinese food sometime. My favorite. Good, thank you. And question, which continent did you not go yet? And question, which continent did you not go in yet?

I got really close to Antarctica, but I was outside the window of opportunity to get there. That's my thought.

So you will see the penguins soon then. I sure hope so. Make sure to bring some thick clothes. Yeah. And, yeah, it's welcome, and it's a lot of work to do. Public works is a big department, and actually it's the biggest department in the city. and so your responsibility is a lot there, but we are here, and I know the residents will call on you and ask your help and everything. So thank you for coming to the city and really, again, looking forward working with you. Thank you.

I'm ready. Thank you.

Councilman Chad.

Councilman Leang? Yes, welcome, Tony. It's great to hear your resume. You have a lot of experience. I don't know if you know, I also serve as a or currently serve as a union president for AFSCME Local 685. Were you a member of CAPE?

No, I was not. It was a bargaining unit in the city of Santa Monica.

Well, welcome. I think Peter covered most of the kind of introduction things. We always try to see ourselves as family and working together, and we're more than happy to welcome you to the family. Thank you.

Thank you.

Any other comments?

from the council? Okay. Hearing none. Again, welcome to the City of Monterey Park.

Thank you very much. Okay. Next. Communications, Recreation and Community Services.

Good evening, Mayor and members of the City Council. I hope you're all doing well. I'm Orlando Mudo, Recreation Supervisor for the City of Monterey Park. I would like to take this time to thank Transtech and Shirley Wong for their generous donations towards our spring egg hunt. We appreciate their ongoing support. This Friday is Earth Day, and I would like to invite City Council and our residents to go outside and enjoy a walk in the park.

The Recreation and Community Services Department has posted walkability routes at three locations, Barnes Park, Highlands Park, and Edison's Trails.

You can find posted maps at each park to help track the distance you walk to go that extra mile.

The walkability maps will stay posted at the parks and we plan to put more at future locations. I would also like to formally invite our city council and all our residents to some of our upcoming events. On Thursday, May 5th, from 5 to 10 p.m., the city of Monterey Park will host our 38th annual Cinco de Mayo event at Barnes Park. This is a free family event and will feature live entertainment by Latin Nation Band with a tribute to Vicente Fernandez.

The event will also have carnival games, food trucks, and carnival rides that include all-you-can-ride for only $15. Happy birthday, Monterey Park.

Come out and celebrate Monterey Park's birthday at Play Days Carnival from Thursday, May 5th to Sunday, May 8th.

This event will feature carnival rides, carnival games, vendor booths, food trucks, and a live entertainment with a special performance by Cold Duck on Saturday, May 7th. Each night we'll also have specials on all-you-can-ride wristbands.

Thank you for allowing me to share our upcoming events. I hope to see you all there.

For more information about the events and other upcoming events, please follow us on our social media at Monterey Park Rec. Thank you.

Thank you very much. Council members, any questions? Okay, thank you again for that presentation. Okay, next, communications library services.

Good evening, Mr. Mayor, members of the council.

Diana Garcia, city librarian.

It's wonderful to be back here in the city council chambers in person

and to see you all, see all your smiling faces.

I just wanted to talk this evening about a couple new programs

that the library has going on.

The first one is one of our newest programs, just launched at the beginning of the month

in conjunction with National Library Week.

The library is currently checking out state parks passes

to anyone with a valid library card.

This is a really, really cool program.

It's a partnership with the California State Library and the California State Parks System.

This has been very, very popular.

You may have seen it on social media.

The state parks and the California State Library also did a fantastic job publicizing this program. Anyone with a valid library card can check out a state parks pass. It's good for seven days at over 200 parks across the state. Those range from historic monuments, state beaches, state forests, all sorts of fantastic places. Right now, it's incredibly popular. I think we've got 20 to 25 holds on our parks passes, but we are planning to get additional parks passes. So if you're interested, you can find more information on our website about that program. Next slide, please. And I also wanted to invite you out to our Saturday event for Dia de los Niños, Dia de los Libros, also known as Children's Day Book Day. This is an annual event that celebrates the importance of bilingual literacy and multiculturalism, particularly important in our community. We're really excited this year to be having an outdoor in-person event at the Barnes Park Amphitheater. This is going to start at 1 p.m. We'll have crafts, pop-up library services, and we will also have a performance by children's bilingual musician Natalia Pallis. It should be a fantastic event, so we invite you and the community members to come out. Next slide, please. Just to give you an idea of what that's going to look like, you can see our pop-up library services here on the left. This is something that we developed during the library closures where we moved our library outdoors. You can come, get a library card, check out materials. These materials are going to be featuring diverse and bilingual books, especially for children. This is our children's librarian, Lauren Frazier, up here on the right in the crown. That's going to be one of the children's crafts. And then we're also doing a book giveaway of Jabari Jumps. Next slide, please.

Thank you.

I also wanted to take a couple moments this evening to mention our ongoing financial forecast workshops.

As you know, City team has been conducting these first via Zoom and now in person during the month of April.

The next workshop that we will have will be this Saturday, April 23rd, 2 p.m. in the Library Friends Room.

These workshops talk a little bit about the city's budget, services that we deliver, and how the city is funded.

So we're encouraging all residents to come out to one of those sessions if they're able to in person.

There's a lot more information about these on the city's website, montereypark.ca.gov slash finance.

You can find recordings of a couple of these workshops, one subtitled in Chinese and one subtitled in Spanish if you'd like to view those.

you also have a link to a community priority survey which we encourage our residents to take it should

only take about 60 to 90 seconds of your time thank you very much

thank you much again thank you very much very exciting oh yes really quick just you know it says it's a checkout program for the seven day pass yes is that something like you check it out and you have to return it you check

it out and you have to return it yeah that's right. So it's actually sort of one of the hangers that goes on your rearview mirror.

Okay. I see. You check it out for seven days, return it, and it goes on to the next person.

And then do you have enough for, I mean, is there a limit to the number of

passes that the library can issue? So right now we have five, and those are rotating.

The state library is taking a look. This is a pilot project that goes through 2024.

they're taking a look at demand they're hoping if there is the demand there that they will

increase the numbers there and then hopefully continue it past 2024 and maybe

even expand it as well

thank you thank you

okay

that concludes

staff communications okay next proceeding on to presentations none

old business none item 3, consent calendar,

items number 3A to 3N.

House members, any items you wish to pull?

I'd like to pull item 3C. 3C. 3C.

And 3J. 3J.

Okay.

Any other items council members and first of all, I would like to ask the city attorney on item 3n I may have some

Conflict of interest streets that's near my house. So Can you give me a advice on this one?

Yes, mr. Mayor members of the council I believe the city clerk sent out a conflicts map, and I don't recall there being any conflicts for any council members. So you are clear.

I'm okay. Yes. Okay. Thank you. Then I would like to pull items 3G, 3G, 3K, 3K. And since I can talk about it, 3N. Okay.

Okay.

Yes, Councilor, are you? Yes.

Maybe I haven't heard. Is 3B being pulled?

It has not been.

Okay. Yeah. We also have speakers. Okay.

As well as item 3D. Okay. 3D, you said? Yes.

Okay.

Okay. Okay. So if I understand correctly, item 3B.

3C, 3J, 3D, 3G, 3K, and 3N.

Okay.

So I would like to make the motion to approve the rest. There's not...

Okay, sure. Okay, Council Member Chan has made a motion. May I have a second please?

Second.

Second by Council Member Yuan Yu.

Let's see, all of those who vote.

Council Member Chan.

Okay, vote's unanimous. Motion carries. Okay, thank you very much. Okay, let's see. First

item, item 3B.

Yes, yes, B, uh-huh.

Thank you. All right, Mayor, Member, City Council.

So on March 29, 2022, the City Clerk's Office received a letter of resignation from Mayor Pro Tem Fred Cernoso effective April 14, 2022.

Pursuant the Government Code Sections 1750F and 1770C, the resignation letter creates a vacancy on the City Council on April 14th.

The terms of office for the vacant position ends November 5, 2024. So, Government Code 36512 provides that the City Council may, 1. Appoint an eligible elector to fill the vacancy, or 2. Call for an election to fill the vacancy. The election would be combined with the regular municipal election on November 8, 2022.

The City Council must make a decision not later than June 13, 2022.

If the City Council chooses to appoint a person to the vacated office, it may adopt an application process to select an appointee or simply appoint someone nominated by one or more council member. Any person appointed by the city council must be an eligible elector residing in District 3,

i.e. a person must be a city resident and eligible to vote in City Council District 3.

Persons appointed to office would serve until November 8, 2022.

At that time, they can seek election for District No. 3 seat. If elected, they would serve until November 2024, at which point they would seek re-election for an additional four-year term.

Note that the Monterey Park Municipal Code provides that, quote, any persons who, whether by appointment or election, serves a partial term in public office for more than two years, is deemed for the purpose of this section to have served a full four-year term.

Monterey Park Municipal Code, Section 2.04.04d. Consequently, a person who is appointed Director of the City Council. The City Council. Now and elected at the November 8, 2022 election will have served one term out of two for the purpose of calculating the term limits in the Monterey Park Municipal Code Chapter 2.04. It would be more than two years. Um, accordingly, if that person was reelected in 2024 for a full four year period, that would count as a second term. If, If, however, the city council did not appoint now and instead called an election on November 8, 2022 to fill the vacant seat, the person elected to office could serve up to 10 years as a council member.

That is because the time between November 2022 and November 2024 would be two years, not more than two years. the individual could therefore seek office for two additional four-year term.

Please note that a vote to appoint an individual to the City Council is a majority of the quorum.

Accordingly, if only three Council members are present to vote, two affirmative votes will appoint.

Also note that the City Council rules and procedures provide that an abstention is counted with the majority vote.

Thus, for example, if there were two affirmative votes for an appointment,

one abstention, and one negative vote, the vote in favor of the appointment would be 3-1.

The estimated cost for the November 8, 2022 regular election, including the election to fill the vacancy in District 2,

I'm sorry, District 3 is approximately $196,300.

So that's my report.

And I'll either take any questions along with our city attorney. Thank you. Yes, we do have speakers.

uh city attorney in here that we say we will receive and filed and then continue this matter until may 4th so how much discussion do we have today or we have to wait until next month

mr mayor members of the council it's certainly up to the city council about whether or not you

want to take action tonight or to continue to may 4th the recommended action is to continue to may

4th i think mainly that was because of the resolution that was put on to the agenda tonight

to recognize Mr. Sornoso. But there are speakers with regard to this item, so I would encourage the council to listen to the speakers and then make a decision about whether or not to have a substantive discussion about this or whether to postpone it until May.

Thank you very much.

Okay.

Then why don't we continue with public comment on these items, okay?

Thank you.

All right.

First speaker is Teresa Rial-Sebastian.

Good evening, council members, mayor, staff. Hi, Carl. I'm here to talk about this item. My name is Teresa Riel Sebastian. I'm here to talk about this item. I was deciding whether to speak about it today or on May 4th, and I thought it was only befitting because of the resolution discussing our former mayor, pro temp, Fred Sornoso.

We spent months, and I mean months, staff time, city dollars, discussing voting districts. We had several public input sessions and we hired consultants.

Finally, on May 19th, on May 1st, 2019, City Council voted unanimously

to approve the formation of voting districts

1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. In order to comply with the California Voting Rights Act, the council created District 3. It is a district with a Latino majority where Latino votes will not be diluted by the votes

of an at-large election. If the council appoints someone to District 3, you will essentially bypass the intent of the district formations and possibly the California Voting Rights Act.

Voters in District 3 should vote for their council member.

Mayor, council member you, and former mayor pro tem,

you all benefited because your constituents, your voters voted for you.

Don't take that away from the voters in District 3. The four of you, in my opinion, are more than capable to handle the city matters until November. And I know in your analysis you're going to have to decide the pros and cons, right,

as you do with many of these decisions. So let me give you some of the pros of calling an election in November.

You're going to save a couple of thousands of dollars because you save the council member's stipend. It's about $3,000. May not be much, but you can definitely use it toward a public event. Mayor, you can serve in your mayorship term or position for a little bit longer.

And Council Member Chan and Council Member Liang, you were both voted at large. So that means the people in District 3 can go to you or any of you council members, but you're at large if they have any issues, any discussions. And I have personally witnessed you, Council Member Chan, reach out to council members and speak with them. So I can attest to that.

and it was brought to my attention and I haven't had the chance to really review it but I was informed that if you appoint someone and the voters in district three are not happy with that

appointment they can gather signatures and force you to call a special election and make your appointment void again full disclosure and I haven't had a chance to review that law I don't

know its application, but it was brought to my attention. And I thought that was food for thought because a special election would be extremely expensive. And really, I think it might, I think

it's kind of unnecessary when you have an election in November. And the biggest benefit here tonight is that the four of you will preserve a coveted American right, a right that other people fight for a right that other people die for, and that is a right to vote. So please do not take that right

away from District 3 voters. Please. And I'm going to take this time right now. Fred, if you're

watching, I just, I want to thank you for your service. I want to thank you for your friendship, and I want to thank you for your dedication to the city of Monterey Park. I cannot fathom what you must be going through because when we talked, you so enjoyed serving your city. You were so happy you were elected to the council and you can provide your input, your leadership, and your friendship to people. So I want to thank you immensely from the bottom of my heart, Armin and I. Thank you for all of that. And that is why I wanted to speak today about District 3. People voted for Fred. Don't take that away from District 3 voters. Thank you.

Next speaker, Michelle Yee.

Hi, neighbors.

Hi, Fred.

As many of you may recall, the purposeful ousting of then-council members Mitchell-Ling and Teresa Real-Sebastian caused a great deal of strife and divide in our city, which was further exacerbated by the manipulation of council district boundary lines to prevent the lone standing female and Latina member on the council from running again. The citizens worked very hard to ensure a representative that was reflective of the community in which he served. In honor of Council Member Ternoso's dedicated service, we must ensure the spirit and voice of the constituents of Council District 3 carries on. We cannot trust nor allow the persons who perpetrated this injustice to our Latino community to select a representative that is reflective and representative of the community it serves.

Councilmembers Chan and Liang concocted and carried out the vicious attack against this community with full support from Councilmember Lo.

They must not be alLod to self-select whomever they choose to represent the district that they violated.

The entire reasoning behind the City of Monterey Park creating council districts was to ensure communities a voice, and most importantly, the right to vote for its own elected officials who are reflective of their needs and representative of their priorities.

Allowing the council to take that voice away from them strips the community of the right that they fought so hard for.

We cannot allow it.

The council must wait until the November elections to allow the community,

Council District 3, the right to elect its own representative.

It is their voice, the only voice that should be heard.

Thank you.

Next speaker is Delario Robinson.

Hello, City Council. So I haven't seen you in a couple of years officially, and I hope all is well. I hope everyone's doing well, healthy-wise, wealthy-wise, same as myself. I just heard our previous speakers come up, and I'm in agreement with some of the things they've said. District 3, the vacancy, Latino majority population.

I would like to see a Latino be appointed to that position. I'd also like to see a commissioner.

You know, we do have a system, and the commission system is part of our political system. The commissioners that we elect to serve in our commissions are people that we hope one day would eventually come up to standard to run for city council. So hopefully a commissioner from the third district that you are maybe familiar with and that you think could do a good job could fill in this position.

you know america's at a critical stage far as division and fighting and we got wars now we

just come out of covid a little bit we need to select the best kind of candidates the best kind of commissioners to fulfill the jobs in the elected local governments.

I just heard the two speakers. You may have a natural inclination to go against some of the things that they've said, what they've stood for.

They've led recalls. They've done division. At one time, we were the number one city in California as far as the ability to raise families and to be the kind of city to be looked up to.

So regardless of what they've done in the past,

the district hopefully can be filled with a commissioner

and someone that could help propel the city of Monterey Park forward. Thank you.

Okay. That's it for all the oral communication on this issue.

Thank you, Mr. Clerk.

Okay. Council members?

Comments, questions?

I'll just make some comments. I think that while we will be discussing this in the May meeting, I think that the speakers make a lot of sense with their ideas.

Okay. Thank you very much. Councilman Liang, any other comments? Yes, Councilman Chen, you have your mic?

I will hold on to the next meeting. I would like to hear all the options first and then go from there.

Okay. Councilman Yu, any comments or questions about the presentation as well as comments presented earlier tonight? I mean, just a few minutes ago.

maybe I wanted to take this opportunity to hear from city attorney about the pros and cons of making appointments or pros and cons of leaving the council as if until November

Mr. Mayor, members of the council I try not to weigh in on policy matters so I think it's really up to the city council to make a determination about what the pros and cons are. I will point out that there has been some change in law since the last time there was a vacancy on the City Council. It used to be that the City Council could pick a special election date

pretty much any Tuesday during the month.

You would pay a premium for that through L.A. County. There have been some changes in the Elections Code, which prevents that from happening now. Now that basically you're restricted to four dates during the year,

and those are in March, June, November. I forget which the fourth one is off the top of my head. I apologize for that.

But for purposes of this item, whether you call...

Whether you call a special election, which is calling the election and leaving the position vacant ! If you simply appoint and wait until November ! In either event ! There will be an election ! So a person could run as an incumbent In November or you simply have an open seat ! So really those are the legal options in front of you. The pros and cons I leave to you.

As mentioned by the city clerk, the cost for the November election regardless of whether clerk, the cost for the November election, regardless of whether you have, regardless of this election, whether for the vacant position or for an incumbent within that position,

will remain around $196,000, but that would be true even if Mr. Sornoso was still on the dais. So I think it's an incremental increase with regard to the election, but you're going to

have an election nevertheless simply under the requirements of state law.

and I thank you very much actually just so my information so what there will be an election for district three whether we appoint someone or not there will have to be an election to fill

vacancy correct that's correct so the only question in front of the council really is are you going to fill the seat between now and then or do you leave it open until november okay And I leave the decision-making with regard to that up to you and the cons.

Okay. But again, just to clarify, there will be an election no matter what for District 3 in November. That's correct. Okay.

Okay.

Further comments, questions, Council members?

Okay. Hearing none. All right. Then to be continued until the next meeting of May 4th, 2022.

In the meantime, any questions, please inquire with our city attorney. right in the matter, and I'm sure that we will continue to hear from the community about this.

Hopefully we will.

Okay.

Moving on to item 3C.

That was called Professional Municipal Clerk's Week Resolution. Yeah, I just wanted a staff report on that. Okay. From our City Clerk, Vincent Chang, I'm assuming. Yes, thank you very much, Mayor, Member of City Council. So the request tonight is to adopt a resolution declaring the week of May 1st through May 7th, 2022, as Professional Municipal Clerk Week in the City of Monterey Park. The office of the City Clerk is celebrating the week, May 1st through the 7th, 2022, as Professional Municipal Clerk Week. The week, sponsored by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, or IIMC, and celebrated annually, honors, and recognized in municipal clerks' profession as a vital part of local government celebrated throughout the world, including the United States, Canada, and actually 15 other countries. so we're enlisting your support in the form of a resolution to honor the professional municipal clerks for providing support to the council department staff and other agencies and of course the residents of the city of Monterey Park so historically the office of the city clerk recognizes and celebrates the hard work commitment and devotion professional municipal clerks provide to ensure the integrity and democracy process for Monterey Park City residents. And on a personal note, I have to say thank you to the lady that's sitting next to me, Deputy City Clerk.

I know she's kind of embarrassed. Cindy, she likes to shy away from the limelight, but I think I would be remiss to not, you know, thank her for all that she's done.

Of course, you know, for city council, but, you know, the people in the city of Monterey Park.

So thank you, Cindy, as well as everybody else in the office, Helen, Bidri, and all the folks that's in there now, as well as in the past and definitely in the future.

So thank you. Thank you.

Thank you. I wanted to pull this item, obviously, because, you know, a city clerk is part of our family as well. I'm sure they have a treasurer's week as well, which we would pull as well. But again, thank you, Vincent. And it really, as you had already articulated, really a team effort there in that office. So thank you, and thank you to all your staff.

Thank you, Councilman Liang. Councilman Chan, you want to say a few words?

Thank you, Mayor.

And I want to thank Cindy and your staff in your office. They work hard year in, year out. And you do all the hard work. and no one knows. And we give you a lot of headaches,

a lot of work to do, either prepare certificates or asking for previous records and so forth. And you are so handy that whatever the requests you have, and so I want to thank you for all your work. And you're kind of like an unsung hero and no-name hero in the city. So thank you so much and your staff. Thank you.

Okay, thank you, Governor Chan. Governor Yu.

Yeah, I wanted to say a few words. Thank you, the city clerk departments. A lot of certificates that we request recently, and then they're always on time, always perfect. So we want to appreciate a good job.

And also all the documentations and everything that, every time when we request anything, so they're so professional, so on time. So I wanted to greatly appreciate your effort. Thank you.

Thank you, Councillor Yu. And let me just also add to the chorus of applause. You know, yes, we may sit here up here in the dais, but really you are the gatekeeper in a ways to the city council. And when people come to city hall daily, it is the clerk's office that is open to greet the public. So thank you very much for being the voice, the face of the city for many in the community.

Yes? Oh.

Yeah, move to approve item 3C.

Okay.

Second. Okay. Moved by Council Member Lang, seconded by Council Member Chan. Okay. Please vote.

Well, it looks like the decision is unanimous. Thank you.

Thank you very much. Okay.

Moving on to item 3D,

monthly investment report, March 2022.

Oh, yes. So Joseph Leone, our city treasurer.

Our esteemed city treasurer. Good evening, Mayor, Council members, of course, residents of Monterey Park. Joseph Leone, city treasurer. I'm glad to be back here again. It's been a couple years. It's great to be up here again. I just want to give you a quick update since the investment report is on the agenda. If you notice in your agenda, we have purchased more CDs as rates have become more favorable for the city. And also, if you notice on the state account and the county account, the state has a little bit more funds right now, but that's due to the property taxes that the city recently collected. I have discussed this with Martha Garcia, my director. And those funds are going to be used probably in the next month or so to pay city expenses. So for the next month or so, both accounts, the state pool and the county pool, should be balanced in order to meet our diversification requirement under the investment policy. And that's it. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to answer.

Thank you, Mr. Treasurer. Councilmembers? Okay, hearing on. Thank you. Thank you again very much. Okay. Let's see. Okay, we don't need to take action. Okay, do we need to take action or no? Okay, no. Okay, thank you very much. Okay. Thank you again, Mr. Treasurer. Okay, we're going to item 3G. Adopt a resolution ratifying certain actions completed by a city manager regarding COVID-19 pandemic and terminating a local emergency. City manager. Mayor, Council Member,

I'm glad to report to you that this is the last action that we have to take underneath the emergency order. It is a sign that we are somewhat getting back to normal. As you can see, we're back in the council chambers. Attached, you have various items that have been approved underneath the emergency order. It's for your approval of action for the filing. Other than that, we'd just like to close out this emergency order and get on with our regular business. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Mr. City Manager. Councilman Chen, you want to say? Thank you, Mayor. And, yeah, I'm so happy that we come out of the pandemic, although it's not quite clear yet. We may be still lingering on for some time until it's all done. And I have one question for the city manager. I'm okay with the closeout of the emergency ordinance and so forth. The only thing I think I mentioned it before many, many months ago is that I still see some restaurants using the parking lot,

their own parking lot with tents outside settings. and so I don't think those cover under the emergency ordinance here or how do we deal with them do we have to codify them if we want to put in some sidewalk

seatings or whatever so how do we is this taken care of or you know how do we

do with it from here we are in the process of uh codifying that in in the process community

development is actually uh that's on their task i know legally there are some other things uh

evolve involving with that um our city attorney can actually explain a little bit more

mr mayor members of the council if you recall the outdoor dining regulations were part of the

2020 business recovery program and those regulations are the last part of that program

that have not been codified in the municipal code those are set to the expire at the end of this

year so in december so from the standpoint of allowing for outdoor dining that continues to be alLod if you have a permit i think some of the issue has to do with unpermitted outdoor dining and i know that code enforcement has been following up with those properties with regard to whether or not they have permits or not. Off the top of my head, I can think of three that are actually permitted, and as for the rest, those are unpermitted outdoor dining, which would not be alLod under the uncodified regulations. As Mr. Bose said, we're coming back to the City Council after some, as I put it, internal management issues from the standpoint of figuring out how to squeeze the toothpaste bottle for parking purposes, and then recommendations will come back from planning as to what to do with regard to those regulations on a long-term basis.

So at the meantime, before we codify the outside dining,

so what do we do with those unpermitted, those fields that's not permitted and they're still in operation with the tents in the parking lot? We know of a few.

If you know of others, turn them into code enforcement and we will follow up.

Okay. So if they come in to extend the permit, their permit most likely expired, so they will come in to get another permit and so they will be okay to...

That's right. If they come in and get a permit under the existing regulations, they can continue with their outdoor dining.

Okay. Okay. Thank you.

Thank you, Councillor Chen.

yes yeah just really quick quick questions do you we are we are no longer we're out of an emergency from the city right the ending of the declaration correct you're correct okay and then i'm curious has la county made any announcements yet on on whether they've lifted their mandates yet i'm

just curious i'm not aware of anything yet but i do know the governor's emergency declaration has expired and i would think that the county would be right behind there some sometime soon very good i

just want to add some final comments uh you know this past three years uh with covet and all the things we've had to do it's been um you know it's a first time i think that we've any of us have had to deal with something like this and i really want to thank the staff i want to commend ron uh you know when we talk about this item you're talking about uh and also our city attorney about utilizing the tools that are available for us in these times of crisis and it really we need it really needed to rely on your guys's expertise your legal expertise to give us the kind of map and options that we can engage in to mitigate any of the kind of negative effects that we experienced during covid i want to thank not only you but all of the staff and especially i want to to thank the public safety staff because we know that you know in any of those staff that were on call or had to be you know they had to come to work you know a lot of us had the luxury of teleworking but public safety you know certain engineers nurses doctors they couldn't they didn't have that option so I want to recognize all of the staff for their hard work the it's gone to recognize all of the staff for their hard work. It's gone above the expectations of your normal ! You know, given the situation that we went through. And I just want to express my heartfelt gratitude ! to all of you for what you've done for the city during COVID and what you continue to do.

! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Any other comments or questions? Okay. Again, I want to echo the same sentiments as well that I think we all can agree that it has been a very challenging past three years and certainly, you know, I last three years and certainly you know I've been very proud of how we've all rallied together as a community and I will definitely say I am cautiously optimistic as we move forward

of course we do have to I think continue to exercise caution case in point the most in

here are still wearing masks because it's a public space and I think we just need to

be vigilant and having said that if there's no further comment or questions

if I can have a motion then to adopt a resolution. We'll make the motion to adopt a resolution

rectifying actions competed by the city manager regarding COVID-19 pandemic

terminating a local emergency. Thank you. Motion made by Councilman Chan. May I have a second please?

Second.

Okay. Second by Councilor Liang. Okay. Please vote.

Motion carries. Unanimous. Thank you very much.

Okay. Moving on to item 3.

J. Denim day resolution.

Yeah. I pulled the item 3. this item actually I saw that Councilmember Real Sebastian was here earlier and I think in our prior terms she was the one that really brought that forward and had us recognizing this this denim day and and passing a resolution so if Teresa is watching you know you know thanks again for starting this tradition and chief Kelly Gordon you can give us the little presentation on that Thank you.

I was also hoping, good evening, Mayor and Council Members, that she would still be present. She's always been a huge proponent of it and typically keeps me and us on our toes to make sure that we recognize it and don't forget it. So Denim Day was established in 1999 all over a court decision that was in Italy. And I won't get into the particulars, but the court decision made it seem that the victim was at fault for what occurred. And we, then in the United States, adopted Denim Day. With that, Sexual Assault Awareness Month comes with that. And Denim Day is April 27, 2022. So I hope you will see city staff and officers all wearing their jeans for the day. And it's just to bring awareness to this and making sure that we recognize the victims of sexual assault and everyone's responsibility to keep that aware and make sure that we recognize how detrimental this is. So just on April 27th, I hope that you will all wear your jeans. We will certainly be trying to post some pictures of the officers and we'll be promoting that on the department's social media site to make sure that the public is aware of that as well. And if you have any questions, I'm here.

Thank you chief. Yes, Councillor Chan. Thank you chief for the presentation. Yes, just like Han said, former council member Teresa Reo's suggestions always put on design them and she always call us before the council meetings that a you better wear a jean tonight that kind of things but now we I denote and well being aware of that because no one remind me to wear a jean and so I'm still in suit. But yeah, on the April 27th, I will wear jeans. Actually, I like jeans.

I'm going to double check. Okay. The 27th. Right, right. When you come by my office, I'm going to make sure you're wearing jeans on that day.

Okay. So thank you, Chief, for the presentation.

Thank you.

Thank you, Councilman Chen. Councilman Yu.

I think maybe from now on I should be the one that's calling you, Councilmember Chen, to wear jeans. With me, actually, I have only one pair of jeans at home, so I will make sure that I wear that that day. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Councilman Yu.

I know. Okay. If there's no further questions.

If there's no other comments, I would want her to make a motion.

Okay.

Okay. I move to approve item 3J, Denim Day Resolution. Move by Councilman Yu. Second for that.

Second by Councilman Chan. Okay, please vote.

Motion carries. Unanimous. Okay, thank you very much. Okay, on to item 3K, which was pulled, National Correctional Officers Week resolution. Okay, who would like to come to the chat? Yes, report. Okay.

I guess we made this easy since I'm already here. The order worked out well. I'm sure that was intentional. The week of May 1st through 7th is National Correctional Officers Week here in the city of Monterey Park and across the country. And for us, correctional officers are extremely important to what we do. So here in Monterey Park, we have our own jail facility. And it's really important that we celebrate the men and women who are responsible for managing those brought into custody and that are awaiting trial. There's a lot of dangers within the jails that they face, a dangerous work environment, and they play a vital role for not only just the Monterey Park facility, but also overall for the criminal justice system. So with that, just like we talked about with dispatchers, they are some of the unsung heroes. You don't see them, you know, they're not shaking hands and responding to radio calls. They're vital to the internal function and how we handle our criminal justice system here within the city of Monterey Park. So with that, I'd like to honor all of our jailers and recognize them. And the week of May 1st through 7th is recognized as National Correctional Officers Week.

Thank you. Thank you, Chief, again for the presentation. and I agree with you because those are the people behind the scenes and no one knows. And I am so happy that I have a few chances to visit our jail here in the City Hall. Is there something we need to talk about, Council Member Chan?

No, but I think that we should, because one time I have my son with me,

just happened to come to City Hall, and then Officer Dennis, Danny, was here, and he asked me, let me show you and your son to go to the jail, and he was in high school at the time. So that's a big impact to a kid. So he still works. He's good. He graduated from college and is working and has purchased his first house last year, so he's doing good. What I want to say is that for the kids, it's a good experience. Although we don't advertise it, but sometimes for the students, if we can open house or whatever, and they have a chance to visit what's going on behind the bars and have the experience, and I still remember that the jailer at the time, They say, okay, go into the cell and slam the door. I mean, that crang noise is a big impact. So I still remember that. So I want to thank the jailers, the correctional workers that work hard and face a lot of dangers, a lot of unknowns in the careers. So this is the time to recognize them. So thank you for the work. And thank you, Chief, for your leadership.

Thank you.

and all that. And like you said, I mean, even for us as probation officers, while I work in the field, us as probation officers while I work in the field we do have juvenile halls as well where we have officers that are supervising youth before their court hearings or before their transfers so you know it's again one of those things that I think they don't get enough recognition for because it is out of sight as chief said so I want to just take this opportunity to thank you all correction officers and also our jailers here in the city of Monterey Park. Thank you.

Thank you. Catherine, you. Yes.

Actually, I just wanted to say a little joke after hearing Council Member Chen talking about his son. I have a son who is 6'3", really tall, pretty boys club. I told him that you can go anywhere but please don't go to jail. and he said you understand he knows just a little joke thank you thank you

councilman you and I also would like to add my comments this conversation and I think it's very fair and important to acknowledge the important work the

courage sacrifice that correctional officers put in in their careers and in

their jobs. I myself have also had an opportunity to tour some of the state penal facilities. My most recent one was visiting Chino Hills Penitentiary, which I believe is a medium security prison, but nonetheless talking to

the correctional guards and officers about, especially during the night

shifts, what they have to experience, as well as some of the wards that they are assigned

to you. I mean, again, it is

an occupation which does require a lot of

steeliness in their everyday conduct.

And so again, thank you very much to our correctional officers who have chosen this career and to serve the public.

Okay. We'd like to make the motion to

adopt a resolution declaring the week of May 1st to 7, 2022

to be National Correctional Officers Week in the city of Monterey Park.

Second.

Okay, it's been moved by Councillor Chan. Seconded by Councillor Leung. Please vote.

Mayor. Oh, yes. Vote.

Uh-oh. Try it again. What? Try it again? Okay, sorry.

Let me clear the board and everybody try again.

Wait, what? I'm going to clear it. Try it again.

Okay.

Oh, sorry.

Nope.

There's something wrong with the mayor's voting.

Oh. Okay. No. Do I need to hold it down? No.

Click it. Okay. Should we try again? Okay. Please vote.

Okay.

Yes, I, yes. Yes. Okay. All right. So it's a unanimous vote.

Thank you. I don't know why my button's not working. Sorry about that. Okay.

Okay. Okay. I hope I didn't break the button. Okay.

Moving on to item number. 3N, Notice of Completion for 2019-2020

Street Rehabilitation at Various Locations,

Specifications Number 2021-003.

Okay. Who wishes to... Yes, staff report.

Okay, yes, Councilor McChann, yes, uh-huh. Oh, staff report, yes, uh-huh.

Our Interim Public Works Director, Tony Antic, will be stepping up to provide us the report.

I'm sorry there's a little noise in the background I didn't hear.

I'm here and but I didn't hear the question. I'm sorry.

I think they were asking for a staff report regarding item 6N, the notice of

completion for 2019-20 street rehabilitation at various locations.

Thank you.

So this is a street resurfacing project that was recently completed.

And as we all know the importance of our streets. The streets are very important to have them in good condition.

So the street resurfacing program takes care of all of the alligatoring, and it also provides a smooth riding surface for the community.

This particular project was awarded, and it was completed on January 26th, and the final recording date was on February 24th. This was a $4.3 million project, completed at various locations.

It included different types of techniques on applications. The most popular technique that you find today is what's called the hot rubber asphalt. the most popular technique you find today is what's called the hot rubber asphalt and it was

! overlay at various locations and included also sidewalk repairs to eliminate the trip falls ! and included some gutter repairs to help improve the flow of water on the streets ! as well as well as installing curb ramps to assist those who have disabilities

! So this project was completed and it was funded through the road maintenance and rehabilitation SB1 measure R measure M water funds and CIP project number 96008 and again the final cost project number 96008. And again, the final cost was $4,513,041.34.

That concludes my presentation.

Thank you very much. Let's see. Councilor, have any comments or questions? I'm sorry.

Yes? So, Mayor, it looks like we have a speaker request. Okay, Mr. Clerk. Yes.

Okay, Delario Robinson.

Yeah, I just want to speak on the streets and Monterey Park.

I know I live Kenton Drive right across from the cemetery.

And for quite some time, our streets have been in terrible condition.

You know, the patching by the particular agency that comes out and patches the street, it's been, what, almost 10 years, 15 years since we've had decent streets to drive. And my street is right there near the marketplace, and it's just terrible.

certain areas are being paved over but most of the areas are not being paved over we need action city manager

Kenton Drive all that area a patrol grande we need action we don't need to

just wait ten more years five more years two more years we want to see our streets paved

we want to see improvement throughout the city and we would like for you to help make that happen

along with the city council thanks very much

thank you very much any other further requests to speak on items to clerk

No, sir.

Okay, thank you. Council colleagues?

Councilor Chan, yes.

Yeah, thank you for the report and the communication. Yes, the street is important because the reason why I put this item is just want to let the residents know that the city is doing all we can to make the roads better and the sidewalks and everyone to be safe and good for all. But I want to tell the residents that this is ongoing work. It's nonstop. And we will work through them slowly. I know that some areas are not as good, but it takes time. And it takes time to get to those streets. And I want to ask or just to suggest that we do have a lot of alleys that was neglected. So hopefully in the next cycle, we will work on the alleys. And those are important as well because during some emergency situations, the public security officers, they may have to use the alleys to get to the action. is so so take a look at the alleys and don't forget it so so thank you for it but put it in the agenda and keep it in mind that we'll take care of the other streets sidewalks and also the alleys thank you thank you councilman

Chan any other comments questions colleagues okay hearing none okay let's see okay this is everything file um again thank you for the presentation and to residents um please continue to communicate with your city leaders and representatives if you see or have a suggestion about roads that need a paving so thank you do we need to make a motion on this city attorney

oh okay then i would like to make the motion to uh to receive and file the notice of completion

recorded by the Public Works Director on January 6, 2020, accepting the 2019-2020 Street Rehabitation at various locations, specification number 2021-003, completed by Sialik Contractors Cooperation.

Thank you for that motion. May I have a second, please? Second. Seconded by Councilor Yelan Yu. Okay. Okay, we vote. I pressed the button once.

I did press the button.

Press it again. Maybe the button's not working. I did press the button.

Okay, my vote is an aye.

Okay, we're going to try again. If it's not, maybe something's broken. All right, all right. Everyone. Okay, I cleared the board.

Okay, please vote. One, two, three, okay.

I think the button.

We'll have somebody look at your button afterwards.

What?

We'll have somebody look at it. Okay, thank you. And again, for the record. I think it's some technical issues.

Sure, and for the record, my vote is an aye. Thank you.

Thank you. Okay, I didn't break it, did I?

Okay.

Okay, thank you colleagues, and thank you everyone for your patience. Okay.

Item four, public hearing none. item 5 new business done item 6 city communications

we have item 6a a tribute resolution of heartfelt appreciation by the city council of Monaco Park honoring Fred Sonoso for an outstanding public service as mayor pro tem and council member representing district number 3 mayor

council if I may just intervene just a bit yes please staff was understanding of the vacancy of this seat and they have put together a short heartfelt video oh wonderful for council member sonoso in district three i think it's a great lead in into the resolution that you have put together um you know this was all headed up by our assistant city manager arnitz alvarez putting all this together and then we also put together a photo book for him so fred If you're out there, you're going to get a little gift from the city of Monterey Park. But just to lead in into your resolution. ! into your resolution.

Thank you. Thank you.

Thank you. This was all done on the 14th, his official day of resignation.

We knew that he was a big Dodger fan, so many of us are Dodger fans.

There are a few New York Met fans out there that we won't mention, but we tried to be as blue as possible, and we'd like to thank Council for the time. Thank you, City Manager. That was very moving, and thank you, staff, for doing that.

Colleagues, do you have any comments?

Council Member Chan? I mean, Council Member Liang, sorry. Sure, sure. Thank you, Mayor. You know, I think we've said this before. It's sometimes life, you know, throws curveballs. You get that Fred curveball. But, you know, I've said this before. Thank you, Fred, for all your service. Thank you for your friendship. You know, and thank you always for the good laughs. You know, I'm sharing something maybe I shouldn't, but Fred and I have been texting back and forth. And, you know, he makes these little comments where I keep telling him, stop making me laugh. I'm on TV. So, but, you know, your sense of humor is awesome. You know, I just saw you. I know that you're back home now. I'm looking forward to come visiting you there. But again, really, I want to thank the staff, too. That was awesome. I don't think any of us knew that you were going to do that, but that says a lot about this family we call Monterey Park. And thank you all for that. And Fred, we're always going to be here for you, all right? Thank you.

Thank you, Councilman Lang. Councilman Chen?

Yeah, thank you, Fred. I know that you're watching. And, well, keep up the spirit. Take care of yourself. And you're always on my mind. and we liked you, we miss you and just like all the staff did to you, thank you and for your services and although it's only two years and it's the most difficult year of our lives, of the pandemic, but you went through it and we did it together. So thank you so much and it's an honor to serve with you. Thank you, Fred.

Thank you, Council Member Chan. Council Member Yu.

I really wanted to thank Mayor Lo and his staff to put together the resolutions and the video for Professor Nussel. To me, Mayor Pro Temps Nussel is an angel. Not only is he passionate to help the community, he brought harmony to council. And I'm sure everyone agrees that he has very good, positive energy around people. And he was even joking and making fun, you know, even when I visit him in the hospital. So, Fred, you will forever be missed by everyone. Thank you.

Thank you, Council Member Yu.

If I may. Oh, yes, thank you. Yeah, I'm sorry. You know, Fred is texting me right now.

He wants everyone to know that he's watching, and he wants to say a big thank you to everyone.

and he wants everyone to know that he's wearing a denim hospital gown.

You know, I think that just summarizes the levity in which he approached many things,

which I think many of us will remember.

I thought it would behoove us, if you'll allow me, counsel, to actually read this resolution, part of my comments,

just for the public as well as to our dear friend and colleague, pro tem Fred Sonoso to hear as well. So let me begin.

A tribute resolution of heartfelt appreciation by the City Council of Monterey Park honoring Fred Sonoso for his outstanding public service as mayor, pro tem, and council member representing district number three. Whereas Fred Sonoso was elected to the City of Monterey Park City Council on March 3rd, 2020, representing District 3, he served until April 14th, 2022, providing the City of Monterey Park with exceptional public service during his tenure. Whereas Fred Sonoso championed many accomplishments to improve the quality of life for all community members, including reestablishing community cleanup events to keep Monterey Park a desirable place to live, work, and play. whereas Fred Sonoso encouraged residents to report issues such as graffiti and abandoned shopping carts to improve the aesthetics of Monterey Park Whereas Fred Sonoso supported family excursions to the Los Angeles Dodgers games to promote community engagement and establish the MLB Junior Home Run Derby for youth to participate in a free and friendly baseball competition. Whereas Fred Sonoso supported one's programs and the purchase of fitness equipment to provide accessible opportunities for community members to stay healthy and active. Whereas Fred Sonoso volunteered for local organizations exhibiting community spirit and civic engagement. Whereas Fred Sonoso supported the historic preservation for future generations to learn about the rich culture and history of the Monterey Park community. Whereas Fred Sonoso fostered friendship, goodwill, and being a good neighbor to promote cooperation and community collaboration.

Whereas Fred Sonoso embodied irrepressible good humor, kindness, energy, and graciousness, which enriches his life.

good humor, kindness, energy, and graciousness, which enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to know and work with him. ! Whereas Fred also served as a council member during the COVID-19 pandemic, undertaking unprecedented action to promote and preserve the public health and safety of the public health and safety. ! Whereas Fred also served as a council member during the COVID-19 pandemic, undertaking the kindness and ability to understand and under and respond to people of Bonner Park have worked in collaboration, making a substantial contribution to the betterment of

collaboration, making a substantial contribution to the betterment of the city of Monoay Park. Now, therefore, be resolved that the city council of

Monoay Park commends the outstanding public service of Fred Sonoso and

gratefully record its appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens of this community for the meritorious service rendered. We wish him the best in the future.

Colleagues? All right. If then, I'd like to make the motion to pass this resolution.

Seconded by Council Member Yu. Please vote.

I'm for the record. My vote is aye.

Okay. In that case, the vote's unanimous and motion carries. Thank you. Thank you very much.

Okay, let's see. And because this is communications, why don't we go down the line on this. Councilman Ryu.

I attend the Foreign Slin Outstanding Older American Award in San Gabriel City Hall yesterday. I was so proud of her. Not only that she's the first API to get the award, but also with her age, she's still consistently helping others so this is a very good lead by examples to all of us and also I attend Starbucks I'm sure a lot of yeah pretty much everyone except Henry attend the Starbucks grand opening yesterday this is the first hot agenda item that comes up when I first got elected to the council now we see the end products after two years and the developers still remember every word that I commented during the approval, I was shocked. And I have to watch every word from now on that I said as it can easily change someone's life. Thank you. And that's all for my updates. Thank you.

Thank you, Council Member Yu. Council Member Chan.

I want to report that during the Metro Service Council has already started the planning on 2028, the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. And Metro is preparing to move forward with public transportation, a new network of trains, subways, and roads, buses are on the work. And one thing I can tell you now is that if we want to go to watch the games, although it's still six years down the road, you will not be able to drive to the stadium or anything. There will be no parking there. So just to precaution that people, if you want to attend those games, prepare to use public transportation. That's what we've been talking about now. And there's a lot of things that will be going on the next six years. but the thing is that I will stay on until June of this year two more months to go then my terms up and it's between three cities Monterey Park Rosemead and Monte Paolo so he's open for and have to vote in to represent Monterey Park Rosemead and Montevallo. So if any one of the council members wants to represent these three cities to Metro Service Council, make sure to... I don't know if the deadline's passed or not, but check on it to replace me. And then on the 9th, Saturday, is the City Public Works put on the... and Athens put on the Trash Day. And I was there to... trash putting some trash to the shredders and which is a very well attended a lot of people lined up and put their things even sofas baths and big items for disposal so the city's been doing it every year so if you have some big items go ahead and watch for the disposal days and get rid of those big items at your home. And like Council Member, you mentioned that yesterday was the Estabuck and the Shell Station, the grand opening. So it was well attended. And I think we are all here except maybe the mayor. Maybe you still have to work. But it's a good event. So thank you and good night. And wish everyone had a good Easter. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilman Chan. Catherine Liang.

Yeah, just really quick. I also attended the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the new Shell gas station on Garfield and Pomona, as well as our new drive-thru Starbucks. It was very well attended. And we look forward to, you know, obviously patronizing the Starbucks. And I've already filled up my tank twice at that gas station. They have good prices. So that's all I have to report, and have a good, wonderful evening.

Thank you, Council Member Lange, and thank you, colleagues,

as well as those from the city who attended the grand opening of the show in Starbucks.

I think it's always an encouraging sign when a business opens because it means that they are optimistic about the future

and they want to invest in our community.

I also would like to report that I attended with Council Member U the tribute to Ms. Florence Lynn when she was recognized in San Gabriel. And for Ms. Florence Lynn, although her professional day job is at the Asian Youth Center in San Gabriel, however, she is not limited to just geography and one nonprofit. If there are many issues that have taken place in this community, she has always been a steadfast volunteer from the census to water conservation to youth empowerment to addressing anti-Asian hate. She really is someone who somehow has the ability to tap into infinite amount of time energy and resources and so she's someone who

has actually volunteered for causes here in Monument Park and so again we thank

her for her service. Also I'd like to announce that this Saturday at Mark Kippawa High School will be the annual Fear the Spear 5k run and it is an event well it's an annual event but I don't believe it took place last year because of the pandemic but it has been organized in the past and it's a 5k run that opens the community it's not just a run it's a run and walk but the proceeds from shirts and sales go towards helping students at Mark Kippawa High school. Many of them, actually most of them from my park, attend Mark Keppel High School. And so

if you're able to, it is 7.30 this morning, 7.30 Saturday morning at Mark Keppel High School this

Saturday. I'll be there and hope to see you there as well. And let's see, that's it for me. If there

is nothing else, okay, then I'd like to adjourn today's meeting at 8.13 p.m. Have a good evening.