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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 12a - Special and Regular Meeting Minutes of June 02, 20261 06-02-2026 ARCADIA CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2026 CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Cheng called the Special Meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Cao, Kwan, Fu, and Cheng ABSENT: None City Manager Lazzaretto announced that the following five applicants had withdrawn their applications for appointment to the District 3 vacancy: Ruby Chang Gail Littlejohn Eduardo Magallanes William Wu Peter Yoo Mayor Cheng outlined the meeting procedures and interview process for the District 3 City Council vacancy appointment; he explained the format of candidate interviews, and the process for deliberation and selection following the interviews. PUBLIC COMMENT April Verlato, former Arcadia Mayor and resident, appeared and urged the City Council not to make an appointment to fill the District 3 vacancy, stating that District 3 voters should select their representative through the election process in November. Judy Hermann, an Arcadia resident, appeared and expressed concerns regarding the appointment process; she inquired about residency requirements for City Council candidates; and she stated that a three-month residency seemed insufficient to qualify for office. City Attorney Maurer explained the residency requirements for City Council candidates, including appointments, pursuant to the City Charter. Beth Costanza, former Executive Director of the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce, appeared and encouraged the City Council to take sufficient time to thoroughly vet applicants, emphasizing the importance of selecting a candidate who is knowledgeable about the City’s history and community. 2 06-02-2026 MJ, an Arcadia resident, appeared and discussed responses she received to a social media post regarding interview questions for District 3 applicants; she also expressed concerns regarding the “No Turn on Red” traffic signals on Baldwin Avenue, stating that the signage has caused confusion for drivers. In response to Mayor Cheng’s inquiry, MJ further described the confusion created by the “No Turn on Red” traffic signals. In response to Mayor Pro Tem Fu’s inquiry, City Manager Lazzaretto stated that the City Engineer is evaluating the issue and working to balance pedestrian safety and driver concerns. OPEN SESSION TO THE PUBLIC a. Interview candidates for appointment to fill the unexpired term of City Council Member representing District 3. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Conduct Interviews and Make Appointment Mayor Cheng announced that the candidates would have a few minutes to provide opening remarks and that each Council Member would ask them two questions each, with each interview lasting approximately 12 minutes. The City Council interviewed the following six (6) potential candidates for appointment: Walter Besocke John Han Cynthia Ng Monje Beth Szymkowski Paul Van Fleet Lisa Walton At the conclusion of the interviews and City Council discussion, Mayor Cheng continued the Special Meeting until the Regular Meeting. The City Council recessed at 6:58 p.m. and reconvened at 10:11 p.m. Following additional discussion, it was the consensus of the City Council to table this item to the June 16, 2026, City Council meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, and to once again televise the meeting. The Special Meeting ended at meeting 10:19 p.m. 3 06-02-2026 Linda Rodriguez City Clerk 1 06-02-2026 ARCADIA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2026 1. CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Pro Tem Cheng called the Regular Meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. 2. INVOCATION – Terrence Shay, Arcadia Police Department Chaplain 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Terrence Shay, Arcadia Police Department Chaplain 4. ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Cao, Kwan, Fu and Cheng ABSENT: None 5. REPORT FROM CITY ATTORNEY REGARDING CLOSED/STUDY SESSION ITEMS City Attorney Maurer reported that a Closed Session item was scheduled for later in the meeting; he stated that prior to the Regular Meeting, the City Council met in a Special Meeting to conduct interviews for the District 3 City Council vacancy; and he indicated that the Special Meeting had been continued until after the Regular Meeting. 6. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM CITY MANAGER REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS City Manager Lazzaretto stated that, since the Special Meeting to address the District 3 City Council vacancy had been continued to later in the Regular Meeting, City Clerk Item 7.a. – Administration of the oath of office to District 3 Council Member, would not be considered at this time. 7. CITY CLERK a. Administration of the oath of office to District 3 Council Member. Mayor Cheng tabled this item. 8. PRESENTATIONS a. Presentations of Mayor’s Certificates of Commendation to the Junior Team Tennis USTA Southern California BBQ Ninjas Team for placing 1st in the San Gabriel Valley region and placing 2nd throughout the Southern California Division. 2 06-02-2026 b. Presentation of Mayor’s Certificates of Commendation to the Arcadia High School Color Guard for winning the National Championship Title. c. Presentation of the 2026 Spring Home Awards. d. Presentation of America’s 250th Anniversary Proclamation to Lieutenant Colonel Victor Shen of the United States Army. 9. PUBLIC HEARING a. Resolutions relating to the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Operating Budget and the Fiscal Years 2026-27 through 2030-31 Capital Improvement and Equipment Plan. Resolution No. 7696 adopting a Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27 and appropriating the amounts specified therein as expenditures from the various funds. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution No. 7697 adopting a Capital Improvement and Equipment Plan for Fiscal Years 2026-27 through 2030-31. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt Mayor Cheng opened the public hearing. Dom Tallerico, an Arcadia resident, appeared and encouraged the City Council to conduct a forensic accounting audit of the City’s financial records, stating that such an audit would help corroborate the City’s position that there was no inappropriate behavior by former Mayor Eileen Wang. Mayor Cheng closed the public hearing. A motion was made by Mayor Cheng, seconded by Council Member Cao, and carried on a roll call vote to table this item to the June 16, 2026, City Council meeting. AYES: Cheng, Cao, Kwan, and Fu NOES: None ABSENT: None 3 06-02-2026 10. PUBLIC COMMENTS Sean Lee, appeared and stated that recent controversy involving the City Council and media coverage has negatively affected his business; he expressed a desire to become more involved in the community and offered a discount to Arcadia residents who visit his auto body shop. Jennifer Lu, an Arcadia resident, appeared and discussed an ongoing code enforcement matter related to the height of hedges on her property; and she expressed privacy concerns regarding the reduction of the hedges. Steve Rhee, an Arcadia resident, appeared and expressed frustration regarding the City Council’s decision not to select a candidate to fill the District 3 vacancy during the earlier Special Meeting. Scott Daves, an Arcadia resident, appeared and expressed concerns regarding matters involving former Mayor Eileen Wang; he also shared concerns related to former District 3 applicant William Wu; and he encouraged the City Council to carefully evaluate candidates moving forward. Dom Tallerico, an Arcadia resident, appeared and provided information regarding forensic audits; and he encouraged the City Council to conduct a forensic accounting audit of the City’s financial records, stating that such an audit could help address public concerns regarding matters involving former Mayor Eileen Wang. Ophelia Chan, an Arcadia resident, appeared and expressed disappointment with the City Council’s handling of matters related to former Mayor Eileen Wang, and the lack of public discussion surrounding those matters, including comments made by former Mayor Tom Beck; she also recommended the installation of a baby changing station in the City Council Chambers restroom. Diego, an Arcadia resident, appeared and thanked the City Council and staff for their efforts related to filling the District 3 vacancy; he expressed appreciation that the interviews were conducted in an open public meeting; and encouraged the City Council to make an appointment. Deron Street, appeared and expressed concern regarding negative publicity involving the City and the direction of the community; and he encouraged the City Council to focus on community issues, work collaboratively, and provide transparent and unified leadership. Mike Durgerian, an Arcadia resident, appeared and paid tribute to the Street family for their contributions to the community; he expressed concerns regarding recent City matters; he 4 06-02-2026 emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and transparency; and he encouraged the City Council to focus on issues affecting the residents. Burton Brink, an Arcadia resident, appeared and referenced comments he made at the May 19, 2026, City Council meeting regarding accountability and transparency matters involving former Mayor Eileen Wang; he stated that characterizations of his comments as racist were false and offensive; he emphasized that his concerns were related to leadership, ethics, and transparency; he encouraged the City Council to uphold integrity and transparency; and he stated that future Council Members should be selected based on character, community involvement, and dedication to the City. Jonathan Rodriguez and James Alewine, Board Members of the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce, appeared and thanked the City Council for their continued support; and they provided an update on the following networking events: Lunch Link at Don Ricardo’s on June 9 and Taste of Arcadia at Santa Anita Park on September 19. Angela Hui, an Arcadia resident, appeared and expressed concerns regarding public safety issues associated with e-bikes and their impact on pedestrians; she encouraged the City and the Arcadia Unified School District to provide parents with information regarding local e-bike regulations and legal responsibilities. Eli Tsou, an Arcadia resident, appeared and expressed concerns regarding the City’s leadership and the City Council’s response to concerns raised by the public at the prior meeting; and he emphasized the importance of selecting a District 3 representative who would effectively represent the interests of the community. Mayor Pro Tem Fu requested to speak on a matter of personal privilege. In response to Mayor Cheng’s request for clarification on points of personal privilege, City Attorney Maurer explained that pursuant to the Brown Act and the City’s policy, City Council Members may briefly respond to statements made during public comment that personally affect them. Mayor Pro Tem Fu responded to an earlier public comment that referenced former Mayor Tom Beck. Mayor Cheng warned members of the public that continued disruptions would not be permitted and could result in their removal from the meeting. Council Member Kwan addressed a matter of personal privilege concerning an email received by the City Council earlier that day regarding a private event she attended in 2017. The City Council recessed at 8:41p.m. and reconvened at 8:52 p.m. 5 06-02-2026 Council Member Kwan completed her comments regarding an email received by the City Council earlier that day regarding a private event she attended in 2017. 11. CONSENT CALENDAR a. Regular Meeting Minutes of May 19, 2026. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Approve b. Resolutions relating to the General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Resolution No. 7686 calling for a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the election of members of the City Council in Electoral Districts 2, 3, and 5, as required by the laws governing charter cities. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution No. 7687 requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles to consolidate a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, with the Statewide General Election to be held on the same date pursuant to Section 10403 of the California Elections Code. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution No. 7688 adopting regulations for candidates for elective office pertaining to candidate statements submitted to the voters at a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt c. Resolution No. 7689 adopting a list of projects for Fiscal Year 2026-27 funded by SB 1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt d. Resolutions initiating proceedings for the annual levy and collection of assessments, approving the Preliminary Engineer's Report, declaring intention to levy and collect assessments for Fiscal Year 2026-27, and appointing a time and place for a public hearing for the Arcadia Citywide Lighting District No. 1. Resolution No. 7690 initiating proceedings for the annual levy and collection of assessments for the Arcadia Citywide Lighting District No. 1, pursuant to the 6 06-02-2026 provisions of Part 2 of Division 15 of the California Streets and Highways Code and ordering the preparation of the Engineer’s Report. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution No. 7691 approving the preliminary Engineer's Report of Willdan Financial Services for the Arcadia Citywide Lighting District No. 1. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution No. 7692 declaring its intention to levy and collect assessments within the Arcadia Citywide Lighting District No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2026-27 and appointing a time and place for a public hearing. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt e. Resolution No. 7695 establishing an appropriation limit for Fiscal Year 2026-27 pursuant to Article XIII-B of the California Constitution. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt f. Mayor’s appointments of City Council Members to City Boards and Commissions, and outside agencies. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Receive and File g. Statement of Investment Policy for Fiscal Year 2026-27. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Approve h. Professional Services Agreement with Liebert Cassidy Whitmore in an amount not to exceed $75,000 in Fiscal Year 2026-27 to finalize currently in-process legal services; and Professional Services Agreement with Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo for professional legal services in the full scope of specialized labor and employment matters, in an amount not to exceed $285,000, over a two-year period. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Approve i. Change Order to increase the Purchase Order with Performance Truck Repair Inc. for fire apparatus service and repairs in the amount of $50,000. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Approve 7 06-02-2026 j. Accept all work performed by Horizons Construction Co. Int’l Inc. for the Debris Basins Debris Removal Project as complete. CEQA: Exempt Recommended Action: Approve Council Member Kwan pull Consent Calendar Item 11.h. for separate discussion. Council Member Kwan expressed concern regarding the proposed expenditure for outside legal services; she questioned why the item was included on the Consent Calendar; and she emphasized the importance of transparency regarding the City’s legal expenditures. City Manager Lazzaretto explained that the agreement pertained to labor and employment legal services for the City’s day-to-day operations as well as labor negotiations; he noted that the City was transitioning from Liebert Cassidy Whitmore to Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo (“AALRR”) due to service needs and clarified that the agreement was not related to litigation matters. He further explained that, while the City has experienced an increase in litigation and legal expenses in recent years, those costs are accounted for separately. In response to Council Member Kwan’s inquiries, Human Resources Director Williams stated that the agreement was intended to support routine labor and employment legal services, including labor negotiations; she clarified that it was not related to specific lawsuits; she noted that expenditures for such services average approximately $75,000 annually, excluding labor negotiation years; and she indicated that information regarding outside legal service costs from prior years would be provided. In response to Council Member Cao’s inquiries, City Manager Lazzaretto noted legal costs associated with public records requests are not related to this agreement, and explained the reasons items are placed on the Consent Calendar. Mayor Cheng reminded the City Council that additional information and supporting documents may be requested from staff prior to the Council Meeting and noted that litigation matters are discussed in Closed Session as required by law; he acknowledged the increase in legal expenditures and encouraged respectful discussion among Council Members. Mayor Pro Tem Fu clarified that the agreement established an amount for future legal services and did not represent funds already expended. City Manager Lazzaretto noted that any member of the public or City Council may request that a Consent Calendar item be pulled for separate discussion. Mayor Cheng reminded the City Council should remain focused on matters relevant to agenda items under consideration. 8 06-02-2026 It was moved by Council Member Cao, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Fu, and carried on a roll call vote to approve Consent Calendar Items 11.a through 11.j. AYES: Cao, Fu, Kwan, and Cheng NOES: None ABSENT: None 12. CITY MANAGER a. Resolution No. 7694 adopting the Telephonic and Internet Service Disruption Policy for City Council Meetings. CEQA: Not a Project Recommended Action: Adopt Deputy City Manager Bruno presented the Staff Report. After discussion, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Fu, seconded by Council Member Cao, to adopt Resolution No. 7694 adopting the Telephonic and Internet Service Disruption Policy for City Council Meetings. Council Member Kwan made a substitute motion to amend the policy to require that a meeting be adjourned and continued to a future date in the event of a power outage. The motion failed for lack of a second. Mayor Cheng requested a roll call vote on the original motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Fu, which carried as follows: AYES: Fu, Cao, and Cheng NOES: Kwan ABSENT: None 13. AB 1234 REPORTS FROM MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL (limited to legally required reports). No Council Members had anything to report. 14. REQUEST FOR FUTURE ITEMS Council Member Kwan requested City Council support to place an item on a future agenda to discuss conducting a forensic accounting audit of the City’s financial records related to former Council Member Eileen Wang. No support was expressed for this request. 9 06-02-2026 Mayor Cheng requested City Council support to place an item on a future agenda to discuss the City’s interactions with foreign governments and the role of the City Council in such matters. Mayor Pro Tem Fu and Council Member Kwan concurred. Prior to Closed Session, Mayor Cheng provided remarks in honor of Ron Street and invited his family members in the audience to share any remarks. The City Council recessed from the Regular Meeting and reconvened to the earlier Special Meeting, at 10:11p.m. Upon conclusion of the Special Meeting, the City Council reconvened to Closed Session at 10:19 p.m. 15. CLOSED SESSION a. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (d)(1) to confer with legal counsel regarding the matter of David Liu, et al v City of Arcadia, et all; and Does 1-100, inclusive (Case No. 26STCV13804). Following Closed Session, City Attorney Maurer reported that, on a 4-0 vote, the City Council directed legal counsel to defend the lawsuit. 16. ADJOURNMENT The City Council adjourned in memory of Ron Street, long-time Arcadia resident, at 10:48 p.m. to Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers. Linda Rodriguez City Clerk