02/16/2021ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR AND REGULAR ADJOURNED MEETING
OF FEBRUARY 16, 2021
The regular meeting of February 16, 2021 was called to order at 3:00 P.M. and adjourned to 4:30
P.M. for lack of a quorum. The regular adjourned meeting of February 16, 2021 was called to order at
4:35 P.M. telephonically, pursuant to Governor Newsom's Executive Order N-29-20 (superseding the
Brown Act related provisions of Executive Order N-25-20) in response to COVID-19. The meeting
notice, agenda and related materials were duly posted on February 11, 2021.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Harry Sidhu and Council Members Jose Diaz and Jordan
Brandman (in person). Mayor Pro Tem Stephen Faessel and
Council Members Jose F. Moreno and Trevor O'Neil (via
teleconference). Council Member Avelino Valencia joined the
meeting during Closed Session (in person).
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Jim Vanderpool, City Attorney Robert Fabela, and
City Clerk Theresa Bass
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO CLOSED SESSION: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS: None
CLOSED SESSION: At 4:36 P.M., Mayor Sidhu recessed to closed session for consideration of the
following:
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
(Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Subdivision (d)(2) Section 54956.9 of the
California Government Code): One potential case
At 5:15 P.M., Mayor Sidhu reconvened the Anaheim City Council.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Harry Sidhu and Council Members Jose Diaz, Jordan
Brandman, and Avelino Valencia (in person). Mayor Pro Tem
Stephen Faessel and Council Members Jose F. Moreno and
Trevor O'Neil (via teleconference).
Invocation: Council Member Trevor O'Neil
Flaq Salute: Council Member Avelino Valencia
Acceptance of Other Recognitions (To be presented at a later date):
Recognizing February 21 — 27, 2021, as National Engineers Week
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
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ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
City Clerk Theresa Bass announced Council Member Diaz requested to continue his appointments to
the Community Services Board, Housing and Community Development Commission, and Senior
Citizen Commission under Item No. 13 to a later date.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (all aaenda items):
City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that two (2) public comments were received electronically prior to
2:30 P.M. related to City Council agenda items and matters within the jurisdiction of the Anaheim City
Council. [A final total of four (4) public comments were received electronically and distributed to the
City Council and made part of the official record]. — See Appendix.
Cynthia Ward expressed concern that members of the public are not able to communicate effectively
with the City Council except for attending the meetings in person and expressed concern that Council
Member Moreno could not get a second or third vote of support for a public debate, with input from
professional staff, on how to include the public in City Council meetings in a safer way with better and
reliable technology. She advised over $1 billion of taxpayers' money had not been squandered on
bad ideas because of residents who spoke at City Council meetings.
CITY MANAGER'S UPDATE:
City Manager Jim Vanderpool congratulated Public Works Rudy Emami for being selected as a
recipient of an American Society of Civil Engineers Orange County Branch 2020 Outstanding Civil
Engineer in the Public Sector Award, noting he would be recognized at a virtual awards ceremony on
March 18, 2021. Mr. Vanderpool announced the Anaheim Public Utilities was awarded a FEMA
Hazard Mitigation Grant to underground seven segments of power lines in high fire -threat zones in
east Anaheim. The grant provides a 75% match, roughly $870,000 of Phase 1 activities including
design, engineering, and environmental analysis. Mr. Vanderpool explained FEMA considered
wildfires that have previously affected Anaheim, and while they were not ignited by power lines, he
explained undergrounding is a useful tool to help with long-term wildfire risk mitigation. He reported
the design phase would take approximately 18 months and staff would seek to obtain funding
estimated at $10,000,000 for Phase 2 consisting of material procurement and construction.
CONSENT CALENDAR: At 6:08 P.M., the consent calendar was considered with Council
Member O'Neil pulling Item No. 06 and Council Member Valencia pulling Item No. 08 for separate
discussion and consideration.
MOTION: Council Member Brandman moved to waive reading of all ordinances and resolutions and
adopt consent calendar as presented, in accordance with reports, certifications, and
recommendations furnished each City Council Member and as listed on the consent calendar,
seconded by Council Member Valencia. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES - 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council
Members Faessel, Diaz, Brandman, Moreno, Valencia, and O'Neil); NOES - 0. Motion carried.
E157 1. Receive and file 2020 Registered Lobbyist Annual Report.
D180 2. Accept the bids of Wescam USA, Inc. and Hangar One Avionics, Inc., in the combined not to
exceed amount of $519,738 plus applicable tax, for the purchase of an airborne multi -sensor
camera system, cabling, and a five-year warranty for the Anaheim Police Department Air
Support Unit in accordance with Bid #9492.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
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D180 3. Authorize the Purchasing Agent to issue master agreements to Grainger, Inc. and Fastenal,
Inc., in an annual combined not to exceed amount of $400,000, for the purchase of a variety
of maintenance, repair, and operations materials for the Public Utilities Department; and
authorize the Purchasing Agent to exercise any renewal options in accordance with the terms
of the Omnia Partners, Public Sector cooperative contracts #2018.000207 and #2018.000208
respectively.
AGR- 4. Approve an agreement with Michael Baker International, Inc., in the amount of $69,385 plus a
12666 10% contingency, to assist in the development of environmental documentation related to the
Citywide Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Gap Closure Project, and authorize the Director of
Public Works, or designee, to execute the agreement and related documents, and to take the
necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement.
AGR- 5. Approve a Lot Tie Covenant to consider two parcels together as one for the development of
12667 the Teen Center located at Brookhurst Community Center (APN 071-130-33 & APN 071-130-
37; Brookhurst Park).
AGR- 7. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-009 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
4951.1 CITY OF ANAHEIM approving, authorizing and directing execution of a Joint Exercise of
Powers Agreement relating to the CMFA Special Finance Agency I and the form of a Public
Benefit Agreement; and approving the issuance of revenue bonds by said agency for the
purpose of financing the acquisition, construction or improvement of projects listed herein
[160 West Center Street Promenade (Promenade Lofts — 58 units), 201 West Broadway
(Broadway Arms — 95 units), 290 South Lemon Street (Doris Lofts — 60 units), and 180 West
Center Street Promenade (Carnegie Plaza — 63 units)].
Authorize the City Manager to enter into a Public Benefit Agreement, in substantial form, with
the California Municipal Finance Authority Special Finance Agency I, which may result in the
City receiving surplus revenue from the future sale of the projects and authorize the City
Manager to approve minor, non -material modifications to the Public Benefit Agreement that
are consistent with the purpose and intent of the Middle -Income Housing Program, subject to
approval as to form by the City Attorney; authorize the City Manager to execute related
documents and take required actions to implement the Middle -Income Housing Program for
the projects; and determine that this action is not subject to the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3)
because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the
environment and it is not a "project' pursuant to Section 15378(b)(5) of the State CEQA
Guidelines.
D112.4 9. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-011 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing persons holding certain designated positions to execute
Emergency Management and Homeland Security Grant documents for and on behalf of the
City of Anaheim for the purpose of obtaining certain federal financial assistance and/or state
financial assistance and rescinding Resolution No. 2020-027.
D182 10. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-012 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ANAHEIM modifying the Rates, Rules and Regulations, which do not increase rate
related revenues, for the sale and distribution of water as adopted by Resolution No. 72R-600
and most recently amended by Resolution No. 2020-020 and determining that said actions are
exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
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Code Section 21080(b)(8) and Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15273(a) of Title 14 of the California
Code of Regulations.
RESOLUTION NO. 2021-013 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ANAHEIM modifying the Rates, Rules and Regulations, which do not increase rate -
related revenues, for the sale and distribution of electricity as adopted by Resolution No. 71 R-
478 and most recently amended by Resolution No. 2020-019 and determining that said
actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public
Resources Code Section 21080(b)(8) and Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15273(a) of Title 14 of
the California Code of Regulations.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR:
D155 6. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer a local Emergency Rental Assistance
Program (ERAP), fully funded with Federal and State resources, in compliance with federal
requirements as promulgated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the COVID-19
Tenant Relief Act (SB 91) enacted by the State of California; approve a Professional Services
Agreement with Protiviti Government Services, Inc. through its staffing division Robert Half
International Incorporated, in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000, to assist in the local
administration of the ERAP, for a term of February 1, 2021 to February 1, 2022, and authorize
the City Manager, or designee, to execute and administer the agreement; approve the First
Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Comprehensive Housing Services, Inc.,
increasing the contract amount from $250,000 to $600,000, to assist in the local
administration of the ERAP and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer the
agreement; and amend the Community and Economic Development Department's Fiscal Year
2020/21 General Fund budget by $10,416,959 for federal funds received, and if awarded Sate
ERAP funds, amend the budget by an additional $11,211,172 for a total budget amendment
up to $21,628,131.
Mayor Sidhu reported the item is to establish a local Emergency Rental Assistance Program in
Anaheim with Federal and State funds to help residents who are struggling to pay rent due to job loss
or having their hours reduced by the impacts of COVID-19. He advised that, while the business
closures caused by COVID-19 were necessary to get the pandemic under control, they have resulted
in economic devastation across the country. He noted Anaheim is dependent on tourism and the
impact has been significant. He reported many residents work in the hospitality and leisure industry
and have lost their jobs or have had their income reduced by these shutdowns. He advised residents
have struggled to make ends meet and have needed help to survive, put food on the table, and pay
rent. He reported Anaheim moved quickly to address those challenges and provided funding to local
non -profits to set up and run food banks.
Mayor Sidhu reported City Council adopted an Eviction Protection Program to ensure residents who
could not pay rent due to COVID-19-related loss of income would not be evicted. He explained this
helped and was important; however, it left a big problem. He reported many residents were left owing
thousands of dollars to their landlords and noted many landlords are local small property owners who
were, in turn, not being paid but still had to pay loans, expenses, and maintain the properties. He
reported the City launched the Emergency Rental Assistance Program providing some needed relief
to struggling renters but there was still additional need.
Mayor Sidhu reported, in response to the ongoing rent crisis, Congress provided funding in the
Federal Consolidated Appropriation Act of 2021 for the National Emergency Rental Assistance
Program. He advised State legislators also recently passed Senate Bill (SB) 91, the COVID-19
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
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Tenant Relief Act. He advised the State set guidelines and gave options to local cities on how to
administer allocated funds. He reported the direct government allocation to Anaheim was
$10,400,000 for rent relief and the City can be eligible for another $11,200,000 in rental relief under a
State Block Grant if it follows State program guidelines.
Mayor Sidhu explained that 90% of the funds must be spent on paying back the past due rent and the
City can pay a landlord up to 80% of the past due rent for a tenant if a landlord forgives the remaining
20%. He advised staff is recommending that Anaheim administer the program locally to ensure relief
is getting to Anaheim residents. He noted this will provide relief for many of Anaheim's residents and
he believed many landlords would be happy to forgive the 20% to get 80% of past -due rent. He felt
strongly the City would get help to residents faster by running the program locally.
Director of Community and Economic Development John Woodhead reported on December 27,
2020, the Federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 was passed by Congress, which
authorized funding for a national Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) and is being
administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury. He advised the Act appropriated $25 billion in
rental assistance with $2.6 billion to California. He explained of the $2.6 billion, $1.1 billion is
allocated directly to counties and cities with populations over 200,000 and noted the direct Federal
allocation to Anaheim is $10,400,000. He advised the remaining $1.5 billion is allocated to the State
to either be distributed directly to eligible landlords and tenants by the State or allocated to
jurisdictions with populations over 200,000 as a State Block Grant.
Mr. Woodhead advised, to be flexible, the State has provided a series of options for review by
localities. Option A would provide the City's Federal allocation to the State and the State would
administer the entire program on behalf of the City. Option B would allow Anaheim to administer both
the Federal and State allocations locally conforming to the State program. He advised the total
available combined for the program is $21,600,000, of which 90% must be expended on direct
assistance to eligible households. Option C would have the State retain and administer the State
Block Grant for Anaheim while the City retains its' Federal allocation to be administered locally,
independent of the State program. He advised some program adjustments may be made to a local,
independent program as long as the program adheres to all Federal guidelines.
Mr. Woodhead reported, based on population size, the City is potentially eligible for a Block Grant
from the State of $11,200,000, which can be used to augment the allocation provided directly by the
Treasury. He advised the City must attest to the ability to administer a local program that conforms to
all of the State requirements. He noted the State is highly encouraging localities to consider Options
A and B due to concerns with the potential duplication of subsidies.
Mr. Woodhead explained, under both the State and Federal programs, priority must be given to
households whose income is at or below 50% of the average median income and/or have been
unemployed for 90 days or longer. He further advised assistance should be given for the primary
purpose of addressing rental arrears. He noted the Federal guidelines allow for payment of utility
arrears and prospective rent as well. He explained the State program layers additional program
requirements as follows: Landlords can only receive 80% of arrears due and to receive these funds,
they must agree to waive the remaining 20% balance; if a landlord elects not to participate in the
waiver, assistance can be provided directly to the tenant but is limited to 25% of arrears due; and
lastly, if funds are remaining after all rental arrears have been addressed, the locality can assist with
prospective rent and utility arrears. Assistance for prospective rent assistance is limited to 25% of the
rent due. He advised the provisions are written into SB 91 and cannot be adjusted locally.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
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Mr. Woodhead reported that in addition to providing the framework for the State ERAP program, SB
91 extended key tenant and property owner protection provisions provided by Assembly Bill (AB)
3088 and provides new protections for tenants impacted by COVID-19, including debt treatment and
civil procedures. He noted protection against eviction is extended until June 30, 2021.
Mr. Woodhead advised, while the City would not have the discretion or ability to deviate from the
State's mandated program guidelines, Option B would allow the City to retain and directly oversee the
expenditure of both Federal and State funds and noted local administration of these funds provides
for a greater measure of local control. He advised staff concluded that Option B is the most viable
and responsive option, given City Council's preference for local control. He advised staff expressed
some concern for meeting the Federal and State timelines and reliance on contractors for this
purpose brings some risk. He advised launching and implementing such a large program within the
very ambitious State and Federal mandated timelines, using the local implementation option (Option
B), would require a significant diversion of staff from other priorities. He noted, under the State
program, 65% of all funds must be committed by June 1, 2021, and all uncommitted Block Grant
funds revert to the State on August 1, 2021. He advised Federal funds can be similarly recaptured by
the U.S. Treasury after September 31, 2021, if the locality has not met an expenditure rate of 65% or
greater. He reported all program funds expire on December 31, 2021. He advised, despite best
efforts to achieve this, there is a possibility that staff may not meet these timelines or exhaust all of
these funds by the designated timeframe. He noted the anticipated start date for the local ERAP
program is March 1, 2021.
Mr. Woodhead noted, to ensure the funds are expended expeditiously, it is necessary to secure
additional assistance. He advised staff is requesting approval to enter into and/or adjust two
professional service contracts. He advised the first agreement with Protiviti Government Services,
Inc. through its staffing division Robert Half International Incorporated would be in an amount not to
exceed $1,000,000. He advised, under this request, the City would establish a contract to secure
staffing resources to assist in the local administration of ERAP. He reported Robert Half Inc. has
direct experience in the administration of a large ERAP program, as they were engaged by the City of
Los Angeles to assist with their $103,000,000 program offered last year. He advised staff confirmed
the rates offered under the contract are competitive and noted staff is aware this contractor is being
sought by multiple jurisdictions to engage in this work as the ERAP funds are being widely
distributed. He reported the contractor affirmed they could staff up quickly to meet aggressive
spending deadlines. He advised under the terms of the contract, the contractor would provide
personnel that would directly interface with landlords and tenants as well as team leads that would
assist City staff with data collection and program oversight.
Mr. Woodhead reported the second contract would be with Comprehensive Housing Services Inc.
(CHS) and would increase the contract amount from $250,000 to $600,000, also to secure staffing
resources to assist with the local administration of the ERAP. He advised CHS has extensive
experience supporting jurisdictions with rental assistance delivery and noted CHS was contracted last
year to assist staff with the administration of the City's locally designed and funded ERAP which ran
through December 2020. He reported their familiarity with the City's application portal and payment
processes would help ensure that the program is up and running quickly.
Mr. Woodhead advised engaging these two contractors would allow staff to appropriately assign
cases to address both volume and complexity. He noted, in addition to the staffing resources sought
through the contracts identified, the department is also redirecting internal staffing resources to
oversee these contracts, troubleshoot any access issues reported by households seeking assistance,
and engage in ongoing community outreach so that information regarding ERAP is widespread.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
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Mr. Woodhead reported the costs incurred under the professional service contracts identified would
be fully covered by State and Federal resources. He advised the U.S. Treasury has already allocated
$10,400,000 in Federal funds to the City and the City would be requesting $11,200,000 from the
state. He advised combined there would be over $21,600,000 available for the ERAP program, of
which approximately $1,800,000 can be spent on administrative costs. Lastly, he advised all
contracted work would be directed by City staff and will be adjusted accordingly if State or Federal
funds are not available.
DISCUSSION: Council Member O'Neil noted assistance for landlords was long overdue. He advised,
under ERAP, landlords could only receive 80% of the rent they are owed and have to agree to waive
the remaining 20%. He explained that in most cases that is not enough to cover the mortgage and
operating expenses and they still sustain a loss. He understood the parameters of the program and
supported it but requested that staff look for other ways the City can help replace the remaining 20%
that landlords are losing with other funding sources.
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiries, Mr. Woodhead reported there would not be an
administrative fee and noted it was based on caseload, which was difficult to anticipate. He advised
turning the funds over to the State would greatly eliminate the City's administrative burden. He
confirmed the City is allowed to use up to 10% of the aid for administrative costs and the maximum
contract amounts presented are below the 10% threshold. He clarified it would come directly out of
the aid allocated to the City. He confirmed that other than the administrative fees, the City would
simply need to invest staffing time.
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiry, Mr. Woodhead explained if the program were
administered locally, there would be opportunities to ask local questions tenants may not ask of the
State. He noted City staff are very responsive, already know a number of the tenants, and can
respond quicker than the State. He explained staff also has relationships with many of the landlords
and keeping the administration local makes those discussions much easier. He advised staff could
quickly address concerns and adjust the program based on how they see the expenditures occurring.
He advised local staff could change things more quickly than the State.
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiries, Mr. Woodhead explained City has had some
prior experience with the contractors. He advised Protiviti Government Services has experience
working with the City of Los Angeles and their $103,000,000 program that shows their capacity to
deal with large volumes and noted they are highly recommended. He reported the City used CHS in
the first two rounds of rental assistance and knows from direct experience that they are well qualified
and do a wonderful job. He was unable to report if Protiviti Government Services was able to allocate
the total funding available from the City of Los Angeles's program. He reiterated they come highly
recommended by several sources and noted the City of Los Angeles was the largest program they
have administered. Lastly, he reported there were no other options other than those presented, and
Option C could have some slight changes depending on what the City Council wanted to do locally.
Council Member Brandman thanked Mr. Woodhead and his staff for their tremendous work. He
agreed that Anaheim could administer the program locally as it has been an example in the State and
nation on best practices in administering these types of initiatives.
In response to Council Member Brandman's inquiry, Mr. Woodhead advised staff has voiced their
concerns to Assistant City Manager Greg Garcia and the City's Washington D.0 advocates about the
spending deadlines and the percentages that have to be spent by certain deadlines. He advised there
are several internal contingency plans, including moving Community Development and other City
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 8 of 21
personnel around, to help with the program, especially as those deadlines approach. He anticipated
having access to those resources, if needed, in addition to the contracts recommended.
Mayor Pro Tem Faessel expressed support for the program and noted it provides great financial
assistance to Anaheim residents and landlords. He agreed the City has the talent to administer and
manage the program. He advised the City has a very good Housing Authority that has already
worked on projects like this and puts the City in a unique position to manage the program.
Council Member Diaz expressed support for the program and noted it is a great opportunity for the
City to help residents in need.
In response to Council Member Diaz's inquiry, Mr. Woodhead advised the City has an extensive
waitlist for the Section 8 Program and those people are presumably eligible for this program so staff
would be reaching out to those people. Additionally, he advised staff would be advertising using the
City's Public Information Office to get the message out using social media, along with placing
messages in residents' utility bills. He advised there would be a wide-ranging outreach program
intended to reach each resident in the City.
MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer a
local Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), fully funded with Federal and State resources,
in compliance with federal requirements as promulgated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and
the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act (SB 91) enacted by the State of California; approve a Professional
Services Agreement with Protiviti Government Services, Inc. through its staffing division Robert Half
International Incorporated, in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000, to assist in the local
administration of the ERAP, for a term of February 1, 2021 to February 1, 2022, and authorize the
City Manager, or designee, to execute and administer the agreement; approve the First Amendment
to Professional Services Agreement with Comprehensive Housing Services, Inc., increasing the
contract amount from $250,000 to $600,000, to assist in the local administration of the ERAP and
authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer the agreement; and amend the Community
and Economic Development Department's Fiscal Year 2020/21 General Fund budget by $10,416,959
for federal funds received, and if awarded Sate ERAP funds, amend the budget by an additional
$11,211,172 for a total budget amendment up to $21,628,131, seconded by Council Member
Valencia.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno expressed support for the item and expressed gratitude to
members in Congress and the State level who made this program happen. He expressed concern
that the Community Development department is understaffed.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Woodhead reported there are a limited number
of City staff who would be working on this program directly. He advised they would be splitting their
time between housing development and this program. He clarified he has six staff members who
would be working on this program primarily, which includes staff from other departments. He noted
the limited number stresses the importance of contracting out the work. He advised Robert Half
International would be doing most of the outreach and dialogue with landlords and tenants. He
explained there would be a point person to interact with City staff, which greatly streamlines the City's
administrative burden. He felt between in-house staff and the way the contracts have been devised
along with the resources the contractors have promised, the City should be able to handle the staffing
needs for the program.
Council Member Moreno cited the staff report where it speaks about the City Council's preference for
local control. He advised the City Council has not talked about this so he does not know where that
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 9 of 21
preference came in for local controls since issues such as rent stabilization and the rent moratorium
were deferred to the State during the pandemic on policies and initiatives.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Woodhead explained the State is very forcefully
suggesting localities choose either Option A or B with the idea of consolidating both programs in one
place so the duplication of effort is eliminated such as double-checking if residents have applied
under a State program or a local program. He advised there is a risk with the State operating the
program all on their own as well and noted they recognize that as well. He believed running the
program locally would keep the City better attuned with what needs to be done on a local level along
with being able to help when residents transition from solely paying arrears to paying prospective
rent. He advised the risks are mitigated by the fact the City has local knowledge and local
relationships that will allow the program to move forward quicker than the State could in adjusting the
program as needed moving forward. Council Member Moreno urged City Council and the City
Manager to add permanent staffing to the Housing Authority for these expanded initiatives since they
are already stretched thin.
Council Member Moreno advised the County recently announced a Rental Assistance Program of up
to $10,000. He advised residents who called about the program were told Anaheim is not part of the
program and that Anaheim's max is $2,100 for assistance.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Woodhead advised the $2,100 amount was an
assessment based on three months of arrearages and current rent. He advised this program does not
have these sorts of restrictions. He reported staff is analyzing the data collected in the first two rounds
to determine what would be an appropriate level of assistance and the conclusion staff is reaching is
that it is going to be substantially greater than the County program, and will vary greatly by
household. He reiterated the program would cover up to 80% should those tenants be fortunate
enough to be with a landlord who is willing to waive the other 20%.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Mr. Woodhead reported the program can deal
with unpaid rent from April 1, 2020, through March 31, 2021, and then can review prospective rent.
He explained if the City takes both the State and Federal funding and administers the program in-
house, the State Block Grant requires the City to use the Federal funds as though they were part of
the State Block Grant and therefore must use State Block Grant rules.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Woodhead explained the money potentially
allocated in the contract is based on services provided and is a not -to -exceed number and does not
mean the City will spend the entire amount. He noted staff is asking for maximum flexibility to ensure
there are staffing resources available to fulfill the obligations in terms of expenditures. He clarified this
program is only for renters and not for mortgage relief. He advised the program could assist
households of up to 80% of the area median income, which is approximately 57,000 households in
Anaheim. He noted the priority is for families that are 50% of area income and below. He advised he
was unaware of any local programs for helping Anaheim residents with their mortgages.
Mr. Woodhead advised there is a Federal forbearance program homeowners can take advantage of
for assisting with mortgage payments.
Mayor Sidhu thanked staff for helping to develop the program, taking on the burden to help
administer the program locally, and helping residents who have been worried about repaying
thousands of dollars in back rent. He assured residents that help is on the way and, by running the
program locally, the City is making sure residents do not get lost in State bureaucracy.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 10 of 21
MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer a
local Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), fully funded with Federal and State resources,
in compliance with federal requirements as promulgated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and
the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act (SB 91) enacted by the State of California; approve a Professional
Services Agreement with Protiviti Government Services, Inc. through its staffing division Robert Half
International Incorporated, in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000, to assist in the local
administration of the ERAP, for a term of February 1, 2021 to February 1, 2022, and authorize the
City Manager, or designee, to execute and administer the agreement; approve the First Amendment
to Professional Services Agreement with Comprehensive Housing Services, Inc., increasing the
contract amount from $250,000 to $600,000, to assist in the local administration of the ERAP and
authorize the City Manager, or designee, to administer the agreement; and amend the Community
and Economic Development Department's Fiscal Year 2020/21 General Fund budget by $10,416,959
for federal funds received, and if awarded Sate ERAP funds, amend the budget by an additional
$11,211,172 for a total budget amendment up to $21,628,131, seconded by Council Member
Valencia. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members Faessel, Diaz,
Brandman, Moreno, Valencia, and O'Neil); NOES — 0. Motion carried.
R100 8. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-010 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Director of Community Services or their designee to
submit an application to the State Department of Parks and Recreation for the Statewide Park
Development and Community Revitalization Program Grant for the development of Little Pine
Park and if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such funding on behalf of the City and
amending the budget accordingly (grant funds in the amount of $750,000).
Interim Community Services Director Sjany Larson -Cash reported the item is a grant application to
the State Department of Parks and Recreation through the Statewide Park Development and
Community Revitalization Program from Proposition 68. She advised the Community Services
Department is submitting an application for the development of a new park for up to $750,000 in grant
funds. She reported the proposed park is a half -acre vacant lot situated within a residential
neighborhood between Bellevue Drive and the 1-5 freeway. She advised staff utilized valuable
feedback from area residents through a community input process to develop a master plan for the
park that includes a child exploration area, exercise equipment, walking path, shade trees, grass
area, game tables, picnic areas, and benches.
Ms. Larson -Cash reported staff feels the project is a competitive candidate for the grant and noted
award announcements are expected in late summer. She advised staff is also requesting the
approval of the naming of this park following the established guidelines in the Community Services
Department's Park Naming Policy A-033. She explained the policy states the following: if the park is
adjacent to a school site, the park will assume the name of the school; if the park is not adjacent to a
school site, the park will be named for a prominent plant brush or tree; the Director at their option may
propose to name the park after a prominent form of topography, geographical area, historical
precedent, or another item applicable to the situation; and parks will not be named after individuals
unless so designated by the City Council. She advised the name "Little Pine Park" comes from the
park being little at one-half acre and pine from the pine trees that will be planted along the freeway
wall to act as a natural air filter. She advised the Parks and Recreation Commission concurred with
the name of "Little Pine Park" for this new facility at their last meeting on January 27, 2021.
Council Member Valencia noted it was a beautiful thing to be able to add green space to any
neighborhood. He expressed excitement to see this come before the City Council and hopefully to the
City.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 11 of 21
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiry, Ms. Larson -Cash advised the cost for the project
to be developed is estimated at $750,000 at this time and, if the grant were approved, there would be
no cost to the City. She advised the maintenance would need to be included maintenance as part of
the City's contract with the maintenance operator. She noted she would have to get back to City
Council on the exact dollar amount but believed it would not be significant due to the size of the park.
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiry, Ms. Larson -Cash reported staff engaged in
several forms of community engagement and advised a project web page was created for residents
to review the proposed project and fill out an online survey indicating their wishes and desires for the
space. She advised staff also used social media for feedback, held a few virtual online meetings,
posted posters on-site informing people of the proposed project including contact information for any
feedback that they wanted to provide, and mailed postcards to area residents informing them of the
proposed project and how to contact staff with any input. She advised staff received great community
input and noted one of the top priorities received was around exercise. She reported the master plan
includes exercise equipment and walking paths at the request of the community.
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiries, Ms. Larson -Cash reported there would be
security lighting around the park to light it up from dusk until dawn but there would not be overnight
lighting in terms of activity space that would interfere with any residential concerns. She confirmed
public art is a part of the project and there is an opportunity for a mural. She would like to include
young residents from the neighborhood to work on a concept.
Council Member Valencia thanked staff and the Parks Department for putting this forward on behalf
of District 4 residents. He noted he is thrilled to see the park in District 4, encouraged the dais to
support the item, and expressed support for the name "Little Pine Park".
MOTION: Council Member Valencia moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2021-010 A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Director of
Community Services or their designee to submit an application to the State Department of Parks and
Recreation for the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program Grant for the
development of Little Pine Park and if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such funding on behalf
of the City and amending the budget accordingly (grant funds in the amount of $750,000), seconded
by Council Member Brandman.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Brandman thanked staff for making use of remnant parcels to
increase green space in the City.
Mayor Pro Tem Faessel congratulated staff on their hard work and noted it was consistent with the
City's past park plan.
Council Member Diaz thanked the Community Services Department and noted there is a tremendous
need in West Anaheim for green space and every time there is an opportunity to add more it is well
appreciated.
Council Member Moreno thanked staff for finding a use for empty lots and making green spaces in
the City. He noted most of the new parks are small parks built largely from external funding or Federal
funds and he hoped to see Anaheim invest its funds into green and active spaces for residents.
MOTION: Council Member Valencia moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2021-010 A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Director of
Community Services or their designee to submit an application to the State Department of Parks and
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 12 of 21
Recreation for the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program Grant for the
development of Little Pine Park and if awarded, authorizing the acceptance of such funding on behalf
of the City and amending the budget accordingly (grant funds in the amount of $750,000), seconded
by Council Member Brandman. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members
Faessel, Diaz, Brandman, Moreno, Valencia, and O'Neil); NOES — 0. Motion carried.
D116 11. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-014 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ANAHEIM in support of State legislation that provides local credit toward the
Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) for housing units created through the Moderate
Income Housing Program.
DISCUSSION: Council Member O'Neil advised the item has been discussed at previous City Council
meetings and he wanted the City Council to do everything it could to satisfy the City's Regional
Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) quota. He would like the City to be able to claim credit for the
units being converting under the Moderate Income Housing Program and noted it will go a long way
to help the City with its moderate -income allocation.
Mayor Pro Tem Faessel thanked Council Member O'Neil for bringing the item forward and expressed
support for the item. He believed this was a creative way to allow Anaheim to take credit for the units
through the Moderate Income Housing Program and provide workforce housing.
Council Member Diaz expressed support and believed it was needed for Anaheim and for many
middle-income families who are struggling in Orange County.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Assistant City Manager Greg Garcia confirmed
there was not a bill number attached to this item but it was being contemplated as a Spot Bill. He
advised there are a couple of authors that are continuing to look at this to introduce something shortly
since the deadline is coming up quickly.
Council Member Moreno expressed support for the initiative voted upon earlier today. He expressed
concern this item may provide blanket support of State legislation that ends up taking away local
control as part of a compromise at the State level. He advised there was no urgency to vote on the
item this evening since there is no attached bill.
MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to table Item No. 11 until a bill is introduced at the State
level. Motion failed for lack of a second.
DISCUSSION:
Council Member Moreno advised he would abstain on the resolution and expressed concern about
supporting a State legislative bill before the language was seen. He noted the bill could compromise
other aspects of the City's work in housing and/or local control.
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiry, Mr. Garcia confirmed the City has maximum
flexibility on what it wants to support or not once a final bill is available. He clarified that there may not
be a bill specifically on this that makes it by the deadline but there could be other vehicles that could
be utilized to get this change made, through either the budget or another larger housing bill. He noted
the City could choose the parts of the bill it likes and could try to advocate for this specific change. He
confirmed the resolution is addressing an idea and hope of a change in a specific area.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 13 of 21
Council Member Valencia noted the legislative process could be long and slow at times. He believed
the option of supporting a bill later down the line, if the deadline is not met, was a good thing and an
option for the long term as well.
MOTION: Council Member Valencia moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2021-014 A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM in support of State legislation
that provides local credit toward the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) for housing units
created through the Moderate Income Housing Program, seconded by Council Member Diaz.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Diaz noted Council Member Moreno's comments made sense but he
felt this was a way for the City to put pressure on the State legislature to do something about housing.
He advised, if the item moves forward in the legislature and it is not what the City is looking for, it
could pull the plug or send another resolution stating the City disagrees.
Mayor Sidhu thanked Council Member O'Neil for his leadership in bringing this item forward and for
his effort in exploring this opportunity. He noted the Middle Income Workforce Housing Program is
great and he was proud of the City's leadership and participation. He advised if the State allows cities
to receive RHNA credit for placing units in this program, it would make a great idea even better.
MOTION: Council Member Valencia moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2021-014 A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM in support of State legislation
that provides local credit toward the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) for housing units
created through the Moderate Income Housing Program, seconded by Council Member Diaz. ROLL
CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members Faessel, Diaz, Brandman, Valencia, and
O'Neil); NOES — 0; ABSTAIN — 1 (Council Member Moreno). Motion carried.
D116 12. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-015 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ANAHEIM in support of Assembly Bill 420 in effort to safely reopen California theme
parks.
Mayor Sidhu reported the item is a resolution in support of Assembly Bill 420, authorized by
Assemblymember Sharon Quirk -Silva and Assemblymember Suzette Martinez Valladares. He
believed the passage of the legislation would eventually lead to the reopening of theme parks,
including Disneyland when it is safe to do so.
Assistant City Manager Greg Garcia reported the item is a proposed resolution in support of AB 420,
which seeks to safely reopen theme parks in California and was brought forward by Mayor Sidhu. He
advised the prolonged pandemic and related closures of theme parks have resulted in devastating
impacts to surrounding businesses and communities, particularly in Anaheim. He reported on
February 4, 2021, Assemblymembers Sharon Quirk -Silva and Suzette Martinez Valladares
introduced AB 420, which would assist in the safe re -opening of theme parks. He advised on October
20, 2020, the California State Department of Public Health Division of Occupational Safety and
Health issued "COVID-19 Industry and Guidance: Amusement Parks and Theme Parks" as part of
the State's "Blueprint for a Safer Economy". He reported the guidance document would authorize
small amusement parks to operate at a limited capacity when its county is in the moderate tier and
authorizes any other amusement parks to operate at 25% capacity when its county is in the minimal
tier, with the moderate tier being the orange tier and the minimal tier being the yellow tier. He
explained the intent of AB 420 is to adjust the guidance document for all amusement parks and
theme parks, regardless of their size, to reopen safely in the same moderate risk tier. He advised the
proposed resolution before City Council this evening simply expresses support for the bill.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 14 of 21
DISCUSSION: Mayor Sidhu advised anything the City Council could do to safely reopen theme parks
was critical to economic recovery for the City and region. He agreed with the intent of this legislation,
which is to adjust the State's guidance documents for all amusement parks and theme parks
regardless of size to reopen safely in the same moderate tier. He advised, while similar theme parks
have lower attendance, they also have a much smaller physical footprint and noted large theme
parks, such as the Disneyland Resort, have the resources to set and enforce the best safety
protocols available.
Mayor Sidhu explained this was not a call to open Disneyland today, as there was much to do on
vaccination efforts along with bringing down case counts and hospitalization rates to much safer
zones. He advised this legislation does not seek to change the tiers only to express that large theme
parks with bigger footprints and significantly greater resources to establish safety protocols should be
able to open in the same tier as the smaller parks.
Mayor Sidhu reported that, under this proposal, the Disneyland Resort and nearby Knott's Berry Farm
could open months sooner when it is safe to do so in a moderate tier. He advised this means tens of
thousands of people could go back to work earlier, small businesses could begin recovery a month
earlier, and the City could start its fiscal recovery sooner and continue to provide essential services to
residents. He was pleased the legislation has bipartisan support and noted Assemblymember Sharon
Quirk -Silva is the Chair of the Assembly Committee of Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism, and
Internet Media and is the primary author.
MOTION: Council Member Brandman moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2021-015 A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM in support of Assembly Bill 420
in effort to safely reopen California theme parks, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Faessel.
DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem Faessel advised he was pleased that Assemblymember Sharon
Quirk -Silva brought this forward. He noted the bill would help provide a path for Disneyland to reopen
safely. He advised the bill looks to reopen Disneyland when the time is right and can do so safely,
which is why he was supportive of the item.
Council Member Diaz expressed strong support for the item and AB 420. He noted Disneyland has
the resources and expertise to safely open and take care of its employees as well as visitors. He
explained his main reason was not for Disneyland and the hotels, but for the 250,000 jobs that
support the resort including trucker drivers, mechanics, electricians, warehouse workers, and
factories that are sitting idle.
Council Member Moreno expressed appreciation for the spirit of AB 420 but was worried that the City
cannot keep its eye 100% on public health. He advised this was the third iteration of efforts to try to
open Disneyland sooner. He noted that Governor Gavin Newsom and public health officials decided it
was not time to open and noted another rise in COVID-19 cases happened soon thereafter in
September. He reiterated that health needs to be the City's priority no matter how much it hurts the
economy.
Council Member Moreno reported the message being conveyed to residents is to stay at home,
practice social distancing, and wear masks, and then the City turns around and advocates a
resolution to be less strict in the ability to reopen the economy. He advised Governor Newsom
convened a Public Health Task Force at the State level and was consulting with prominent public
health officials at universities and in the government that concluded that a large theme park should
open at the minimal tier.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 15 of 21
Council Member Moreno presented health data on COVID-19 cases for Orange County and
Anaheim. He reported Santa Ana and Anaheim represent 35% of the COVID-19 cases in Orange
County and the eight (8) zip codes around the Disneyland Resort have 50,000 COVID-19 cases and
are some of the primary hotspot areas. He advised, even more distressing, is the push to not open
Anaheim's schools and noted Anaheim's children will go to Disneyland if it is reopened at a lesser
tier. He reported Anaheim and Santa Ana represent 45% of youth COVID-19 cases in Orange
County. He advised more than half of the cases represent children under 14 years old. He expressed
concern that there is a push to open a park that is made for children at less strict criteria. He advised
it does not behoove the City to rush legislation or push legislation focusing on opening theme parks.
He suggested the City should support legislation to provide more resources to local businesses so
they can withstand the pandemic until the City can securely open.
Council Member Moreno presented data that compared COVID-19 cases and vaccinations. He
reported 45% of COVID-19 cases in Orange County are Latinos, yet they make up 11 % of all those
who have received at least one dose of the vaccination. He advised only 9% of seniors who received
the vaccination are Latinos. He advised if the City continues to push less strict criteria for opening
theme parks it is putting Latino essential workers and children at a greater risk.
Council Member Moreno reported Anaheim is struggling with health equity in zip codes around the
resort and struggling to get vaccinations out, however he acknowledged headway is being made with
vaccinations. He noted if the City urges legislation to allow theme parks to open of any size it is
saying COVID-19 is in the same context at Adventure City in Stanton as it would be at Disneyland.
He reported he walked through Disneyland and is extremely impressed but is still worried about the
surrounding resort area. He advised there would be 25,000 to 35,000 visitors per day on top of 5,000
to 10,000 employees who would need to serve those visitors. He noted Federal and State stimulus
funds are coming and could hopefully hold over the resort workers. He suggested pulling the
$4,000,000 back from Visit Anaheim to invest in resort workers to sustain them and local businesses
for a few more months. He noted a third surge of COVID-19 would be disastrous for Anaheim.
Council Member Moreno encouraged the dais to urge legislators to focus investing resources and
policies on the public health crisis and less focus on the economy. He thanked Assemblymember
Sharon Quirk -Silva for trying to find a resolution but asked her to reconsider this legislation and honor
the work of public health people at the state level.
Council Member Valencia noted public health is the priority and would continue to be until the
pandemic is overcome. He did, however, support having conversations about safely re -energizing the
City's economy and expressed support for the resolution.
MOTION: Council Member Brandman moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2021-015 A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM in support of Assembly Bill 420
in effort to safely reopen California theme parks, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Faessel. ROLL CALL
VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members Faessel, Diaz, Brandman, Valencia, and
O'Neil); NOES — 1 (Council Member Moreno). Motion carried.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 16 of 21
8105 13. Consider (re)appointments to certain city Boards and Commissions to serve terms through
December 31, 2024 (continued from Council meeting of January 12, 2021, Item No. 17; and
Council meeting of January 26, 2021, Item No. 19).
Community Services Board (1 appointment):
District 1 appointment: (December 31, 2024)
District 1 appointment continued to a later date.
Cultural and Heritage Commission (2 appointments):
Council Member Diaz nominated Robert Sanchez.
District 1 appointment: Robert Sanchez (December 31, 2024)
NOMINATION: Council Member Diaz nominated Robert Sanchez. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES
— 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members Faessel, Diaz, Brandman, Moreno, Valencia, and
O'Neil); NOES - 0. Nomination approved.
Mayor Pro Tem Faessel nominated Kristen Maahs-Kolberg.
District 5 appointment: Kristen Maahs-Kolberg (December 31, 2024)
NOMINATION: Mayor Pro Tem Faessel nominated Kristen Maahs-Kolberg. ROLL CALL
VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Sidhu and Council Members Faessel, Diaz, Brandman, Moreno,
Valencia, and O'Neil); NOES - 0. Nomination approved.
Housing and Community Development Commission (1 appointment):
District 1 appointment: (December 31, 2024)
District 1 appointment continued to a later date.
Planning Commission (1 appointment):
Council Member Diaz nominated Lucille Kring and advised he was still looking for a candidate
from District 1.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno explained his vote and advised Anaheim's
communities fought hard for district -based elections in part to assure there was
institutionalized representation geographically. He advised there were times when it was hard
to find someone willing to serve on a particular commission, which is why there are policies to
add flexibility.
Council Member Moreno advised this was now the second time an appointment has been
made to the Planning Commission that was not a District 1 resident. He felt it was unjust to
appoint residents who do not live in the district and he would not be supporting the
nomination.
Council Member O'Neil addressed a Council Member's ability to appoint the individual he or
she desires to serve as his or her commissioner and supported the nomination.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 17 of 21
Council Member Valencia concurred with Council Member O'Neil's comments and expressed
support for the nomination.
District 1 appointment: Lucille Kring (December 31, 2024)
NOMINATION: Council Member Diaz nominated Lucille Kring. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6
(Mayor Sidhu and Council Members Faessel, Diaz, Brandman, Valencia, and O'Neil); NOES —
1 (Council Member Moreno). Nomination approved.
Senior Citizen Commission (1 appointment):
District 1 appointment:
District 1 appointment continued to a later date.
D116 14. Update on the City's response to COVID-19
(December 31, 2024)
Mayor Sidhu noted Anaheim still faces serious challenges but this has been another week of trends
moving in the right direction. He advised the Ad Hoc Public Health Advisory Task Force met and
received a preview of tonight's presentation. He reported Orange County now has seen more than a
month of declining cases and lower positivity. He advised Anaheim case rates remain high but have
come down across the City and positivity rates are down are stable from west to east Anaheim. He
advised the City's health equity metric, which measures testing in the City's hardest-hit
neighborhoods, continues to come down.
Mayor Sidhu reported two trends are playing out, which are people taking the pandemic seriously and
more people are being vaccinated across Orange County. He reported there are two tragedies of the
pandemic, which include the loss of life due to the pandemic and the economic crisis that has hit
working families and businesses across Anaheim. He advised Anaheim must continue to plan for
economic recovery, which is why AB 420 was addressed this evening. He noted there is much work
to do but planning for recovery should go hand in hand with efforts to end the pandemic.
Communications Specialist Lauren Gold reported Orange County is seeing its fifth consecutive week
of improvement, which was very encouraging. She advised the case rates in both Orange County and
Anaheim were still high but have been steadily going down. She reported the positivity rate in Orange
County is now in the red tier. She noted, if the health equity percentage reaches the red tier, Orange
County could be assessed by the State for movement to the red tier. Lastly, she noted Anaheim is
below the summer peak in July and hoped the downward trend continued.
Chief Communications Officer Mike Lyster reported Anaheim would soon surpass 150,000 vaccines
given in Anaheim and is part of more than 530,000 that have been given in all of Orange County. He
presented demographics of vaccinations and noted the vaccine administered in Phase 1A is
comprised of healthcare workers, first responders, residents, and workers at nursing homes as well
as those who are over 65. He expected to see the numbers grow and expand as additional phases
are added, which will bring vaccines to more essential workers and a larger portion of the City's
population.
Mr. Lyster reported more vaccine options were coming available but remain in limited supply. He
advised large pharmacy chains that operate in Anaheim and Orange County are in the early stages of
providing the vaccine to those who are eligible. He reported large health care providers such as
Kaiser Permanente, Providence, Saint Joseph, and Blue Shield of California were also providing
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 18 of 21
vaccinations to their member groups. He noted neighborhood clinics continue to provide the vaccine,
not only in Anaheim but also across Orange County, which brings the vaccine to residents who may
have a harder time going to another location.
DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Valencia, Mr. Lyster reported he does not have
specific data on how many of the vaccinated are first responders and those over 65 years of age but
would try to get the data when it was available. Council Member Valencia requested the data through
social media or at the next City Council meeting to provide more insight into more specific numbers
when it comes to demographics and first responders.
Mr. Lyster reported Phase 1A is estimated to be approximately 700,000 people, which would be
double the population because Orange County has a sizeable senior community in addition to first
responders and healthcare workers.
Council Member Valencia reiterated his recommendation from the last City Council meeting which is
to focus the City's efforts on ensuring that the impact of demographics and neighborhoods are the
ones who are taking precedence is going to be key given there are a limited amount of vaccines in
Orange County. He recommended posting a micro -neighborhood sign of events in the community to
make sure residents who do not have access to sign up for the vaccine, following up with those
residents to make sure they are not missing their appointments and receiving the information, and
just providing rides to and from the vaccination sites. He advised there are Free Rides around the
Neighborhood (FRAN) shuttles and Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) busses that should be
put to good use to get residents to vaccination sites. Lastly, he advised he is proud of the work
Anaheim is doing within its limitations and the targeted efforts to support the needs of Anaheim's
most vulnerable demographics.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Lyster reported he does not have the data
available regarding how many of the 150,000 people vaccinated at the Disneyland super point of
distribution (POD) site were Anaheim residents but would continue to request the data from the
County.
Council Member Moreno pointed out that the data presented tonight was State -based data and was
reported by race and ethnicity so they must know where the vaccinated live. He urged staff to
continue pressing Orange County for the data by city and noted the zip code data was received from
the County and revealed how ravaged Anaheim and Santa Ana were from the pandemic. He advised
that data also launched the health equity initiative by the County to catch up. He noted, if the State
wants Disneyland to open, then they need to send resources to get residents healthy through
vaccines.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Lyster confirmed, if AB 420 were to pass and
the California Department of Health were to concur, there could potentially be a reopening of the
theme parks when the orange tier is reached at the County level.
Council Member Moreno reported every zip code in Anaheim except for one is in the purple tier,
which is the most strict and widespread tier. He advised it is conceivable that Orange County would
reach the orange tier while Anaheim remains in the purple tier and potentially open the resort. He
urged the Public Health Task Force to align their advocacy between the City's context and the County
tiers because the resort may reopen while Anaheim is still in the purple tier.
Council Member Moreno thanked Mr. Lyster for providing Orange County and Anaheim data with
trends by zip code and seven-day averages as it allows the City Council to make better policy
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 19 of 21
decisions and provide better direction to advocate for what the City needs to get healthy. He urged
the Public Health Task Force and Mayor Sidhu, when he meets with the Big City Mayors, to advocate
for disproportionate resources to those economies that provide a disproportionate revenue stream to
the State such as Anaheim.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Mayor Sidhu reported there is no report to be
given from the Public Health Task Force at this time. Council Member Moreno recalled the task force
was to prepare a report and plan that would be presented to the City Council in mid-February.
In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mayor Sidhu advised the task force is currently
working on a plan and it would be presented when completed.
In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiry, Mr. Lyster reported the proactive work of the task
force continues and advised the major development that has happened during the time the task force
was convened was vaccines. He advised the City moved from a relatively small site at a fire facility to
the supersite at the Disneyland resort and was influenced by the work of the task force. He noted
staff received a strong indication from the task force that expanding vaccines should be the City's
number one priority. He hoped to have more information to share with City Council and the
community in the coming days on efforts with the task force to expand access to vaccines. He
reported another important measure of the task force is to address the health equity issue by figuring
out ways to make it easier for residents in the hardest-hit neighborhoods to register for vaccines.
Lastly, he advised much of the work seen in the City around vaccines in the past few weeks has been
with the concurrence of the task force and is the number one mission of the City.
Council Member Valencia requested Mr. Lyster elaborate on the public health awareness campaign
that was implemented days after the task force was put together.
Mr. Lyster reported the public health awareness campaign was the first effort of the task force. He
advised anyone who travels in Anaheim can see that work on yard signs, street medians, bus stops,
at the marquee sign on the Big A or Honda Center, and are high visibility throughout the City. He
noted the message of the campaign was developed by the task force and its main theme is to keep
Anaheim safe and fight COVID in all that residents do.
Council Member Valencia thanked Mr. Lyster and noted it has been encouraging to work on these
endeavors and two months after the implementation of the task force see the City's COVID numbers
coming to the point they are at now. He acknowledged there is a long way to go but there has been
some significant improvement in the numbers specifically since the all-time high in December.
Informational item - No action taken.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS (non-aqenda items): None
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS/AGENDA REQUESTS:
Mayor Pro Tem Faessel requested the meeting adjourn in memory of Anaheim Public Utilities Electric
Capital Projects Manager John Pellegrino. He reported his attendance last Thursday at a Zoom
meeting hosted by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk -Silva with guests Dr. Chau and Supervisor
Chafee regarding COVID-19 and shared the discussion of getting vaccines directly into
neighborhoods "along the curb line." He congratulated all those who enjoyed Lunar New Year last
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 20 of 21
Friday and shared information on the celebration at St. Anthony's, concluding that he and his wife
shared quiet Valentine's Day at home.
Council Member Diaz announced the west Anaheim Neighborhood Services District Community
Meeting for Districts 1 and 2 would be held on February 17, 2021, at 7:00 P.M. with the Zoom link
posted at www.anaheim.net/neighborhood. He also announced the Anaheim Police Department was
hosting a virtual Coffee with a Cop on February 17, 2021, at 11:00 A.M. on Facebook and Instagram
Live, with the topic of recruitment for positions within the department. He reminded District 1 residents
that free testing sites were still available at Brookhurst Community Center on Tuesdays and Fridays
and at Western High School on February 16. He asked everyone to stay healthy and safe.
Council Member Brandman reiterated the announcement of the west Anaheim Neighborhood
Services District Community Meeting for Districts 1 and 2 on February 17, 2021, at 7:00 P.M., shared
the Zoom ID 99962314159, password 171611, and call-in option 669-900-9128, and hoped all could
attend.
Council Member Moreno recognized Anaheim resident Chef Martin Guerrero for being given an
Impacto 2021 Award by Univision for his work with food distribution and cooking classes/lessons in
the community throughout Orange County and Los Angeles. He thanked Larry Pasco and Sjany
Larson -Cash for helping facilitate Chef Guererro's use of the Ponderosa kitchen to record videos on
how to cook food received at food distributions in various healthy ways. He thanked all those who
continue to facilitate food distributions. As a resident and parent of high school students, he
acknowledged school leaders for making strong decisions based on data, science, and consultations
with public health officials regarding the re -opening of schools and urged all to be patient. He asked
staff to continue to work with educators on virtual programming as well as keeping parks open for the
children. He also asked his colleagues and staff to continue to advocate the State and County to
provide vaccines proportionately to the need.
Council Member Valencia commented regarding Item No. 7 that he was happy to see the City making
an effort to address the statewide affordability challenge; however, he urged mindfulness of the short-
term impact of these projects on the City's budget due to the postponement of property taxes. He
would like to see some time pass to evaluate impacts before continuing to move in this direction and
approving additional projects. He announced the virtual Coffee with Cop on February 17 at 11:00
A.M. and the Zoom Neighborhood Services meeting for Districts 3 and 4 on February 18, 2021, at
7:00 P.M., with more information on the City's website. He shared that some District 4 residents
experienced a hacking scam within the WhatsApp app where they were scammed out of money they
thought they were providing to personal contacts. With the different types of financial aid available
and different fraud methods, he recommended the City provide bilingual information about types of
fraud residents may experience via social media, the website, and a community meeting with the
Police Department. He thanked the City team for their commitment to residents, gave a shout -out to
his younger brother for National Engineers Week, and encouraged all to continue to social distance to
keep Anaheim safe.
Mayor Sidhu asked the City Manager to work with the Communications Manager to address fraud. He
stated the City was not yet out of the woods, shared testing facilities were available across the City,
encouraged residents to get tested to help keep everyone safe, and stated that cases will continue to
drop as more vaccines are provided. In addition to John Pellegrino, Mayor Sidhu adjourned the
meeting in memory of Anaheim resident Sandra Fox and Valencia High School jazz band teacher
Peter Perez, both victims of COVID-19.
City Council Minutes of February 16, 2021
Page 21 of 21
ADJOURNMENT:
At 7:43 P.M., Mayor Sidhu adjourned the City Council meeting in memory of John Pellegrino, Sandra
Fox, and Peter Perez.
Ily submitted,
Me-resaBass, CMC
City Clerk
Public Comment
From: Cynthia Guerra <cynthiag@kennedycommission.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2021 5:16 PM
To: City Clerk
Cc: Public Comment; Cesar C; paul.mcdougall@hcd.ca.gov; Megan.Kirkeby@hcd.ca.gov
Subject: Letter re: City Council Agenda Items 7 and 11 (2.16.2021)
Attachments: Ltr_Anaheim_ City Council Items 7 and 11_2.16.2021.pdf
0
Please find the attached letter on behalf of the Kennedy Commission addressing both of the following items in
today's Anaheim City Council meeting agenda (2.16.2021):
Item 7: CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING, AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING
EXECUTION OF A JOINT EXERCISE OF POWERS AGREEMENT RELATING TO THE CMFA
SPECIAL FINANCE AGENCY I AND THE FORM OF A PUBLIC BENEFIT AGREEMENT; AND
APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS BY SAID AGENCY FOR THE PURPOSE
OF FINANCING THE ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCT
Item 11: RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF STATE LEGISLATION THAT PROVIDES LOCAL
CREDIT TOWARD REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT FOR HOUSING UNITS
CREATED THROUGH THE MODERATE INCOME HOUSING PROGRAM
Please confirm receipt of this email and let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Cynthia Guerra
Cynthia Guerra
The Kennedy Commission
Community Organizer
February 16, 2021
Mayor Harry Sidhu and City Council Members
City of Anaheim
200 S. Anaheim Boulevard
Anaheim, CA 92805
RE: Item 7 and Item 11 Concerning the City's Moderate Income Housing Program
Dear Mayor Harry Sidhu and Council Members:
www.kennedycommission.org
17701 Cowan Ave., Suite 200
Irvine, CA 92614
949 250 0909
The Kennedy Commission (the Commission), a broad-based coalition of residents and community
organizations, advocates for the production of homes affordable for families earning less than
$20,000 annually in Orange County. Formed in 2001, the Commission has successfully partnered
and worked with Orange County jurisdictions to create effective housing and land -use policies that
have led to the new construction of homes affordable to lower-income working families.
As you review the agenda items concerning the City's Moderate Income Housing Program (the
Program), the Commission strongly encourages the Council to equally prioritize the creation of
housing at the lower income levels. The City's lack of progress in meeting its current very low and
low income RHNA allocations demonstrates the need for the City to take urgent action to increase
housing production at these levels. For the 2014-2021 Housing Element planning period, the City
has a Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) of 1,256 very low- and 907 low-income
households. To -date, the City has built 124 or 10% of the 1,256 very low-income units and 121 or
13% of the 907 low-income units.' However, for the above moderate -income units, the City
outperformed and exceeded the RHNA by constructing 7,182 or 287% of the 2,501 above
moderate -income RHNA.2 While 948 above moderate units were added in 2019, only 53 units total
were added at the very low and low income levels. With this Program, the City is addressing its
dearth in moderate income housing. However, the City has not taken equal decisive action to
address the shortage of lower income housing. With a remaining RHNA need of 1,950 lower
income homes, it is important the City equally prioritize the development of homes at the
lower income levels and adopt a mixed -income housing ordinance to encourage the
development of affordable homes for lower income households in the City.
Arguably, the City has a more urgent need to address housing production at the lower income levels
than the moderate income levels given the RHNA allocations the City received for the 2021-2029
Housing Element planning period. SCAG anticipates the City's total RHNA allocation for the very
low and low income level for the upcoming cycle to be 3,757 and 2,391, respectively.' That is a
total of 6,148 lower income homes. In contrast, the City has received a moderate income level
allocation of 2,939 units. Given the City's track -record of prioritizing above moderate housing on
Housing Opportunity Sites identified in the current Housing Element as sites that can be used to
meet the City's RHNA requirements at the very -low and low, the City will have a very difficult
time meeting its current and upcoming RHNA allocation. For example, in 2019 the City approved a
City of Anaheim's 2019 Annual Housing Element Progress Report, p. 2, April 2020.
Z City of Anaheim's 2019 Annual Housing Element Progress Report, p. 3, April 2020.
' "SCAG 6' Cycle Draft RHNA Allocation Based on Final RHNA Methodology & Final Connect SOCAL," September 3, 2020.
Lttps //scag.ca.gov/sites/main/61es/file-attachments/staff-recommended-rhna-estimated-allocations-030520.NP1602189445
Moderate Income Housing Program
February 16, 2021
Page 2 of 2
20 -acre market -rate residential development in the Residential Opportunity Overlay Zone, depleting
the capacity of the City meet its remaining housing needs for lower income households. Given the
dire lack of lower income homes and the larger RHNA allocations the City received at these
income levels for the upcoming cycle, the City has a greater responsibility to quickly and
effectively create policies and programs that specifically target production at the very low and
low income levels.
Affordable homes are urgently needed for lower income residents given the increasing cost of
housing in Orange County. The County is consistently ranked among the top ten least affordable
metropolitan areas in the country.4 A resident must earn at least $42.62 per hour to afford a two-
bedroom apartment at a fair market rent.' Based on this figure, the approximate annual income a
resident must have to afford housing in Orange County is $81,830.40. This income is completely
unrealistic for lower income families. According to the California Housing and Community
Development Department (HCD), the County's annual median income (AMI) for a family of four at
the extremely low income level is $38,450, $64,050 at the very low income level, and $102,450 at
the low income level.6 Meanwhile, at the moderate income level, the County's AMI is $123,600.
These figures demonstrate that the residents most unable to afford housing in Orange County,
including the City of Anaheim, are the residents at the extremely low and very low income levels.
While the affordability housing crisis affects moderate income families at a much lesser extent, the
City is going to great lengths to address this issue by creating a Middle Income Housing Program,
and trying to pass legislation. However, it has taken nowhere near as concrete steps to address to
pass policies, programs, and support legislation that would create housing for lower income
families. In light of the above figures, the City should first prioritize the production of housing
for lower income families before they prioritize moderate income housing, or at the very least
address these issues simultaneously. The Commission would like to work with the City to
make this a reality.
We look forward to working with the City of Anaheim to encourage effective housing policies that
will help create balanced housing development and create much-needed affordable housing in our
local communities. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (949) 250-0909 or
cesarcnta,kennedvcommi ssion.org.
Sincerely,
Cesar Covarrubias
Executive Director
cc: Ms. Megan Kirkeby, Deputy Director, Housing Policy Development, CA HCD
Mr. Paul McDougall, Housing Manager, CA HCD
4 Out of Reach 2020- The High Cost of Housing, National Low Income Housing Coalition, p.17, 2021.
I Out of Reach 2020- The High Cost of Housing, National Low Income Housing Coalition, p.17, 2021.
6 California Department of Housing and Community Development "State Income Limits for 2020," p. 8, April 30, 2020.
Public Comment
From:
Mark Daniels
Sent:
Tuesday, February 16, 2021 11:32 AM
To:
Public Comment
Subject:
1st District Senior Commission Member.
The Open Seat on the Senior Commission 1st District City of Anaheim, the Natural Choice Would be Denise
Barnes Former Council Member, and a long time 1 st District Resident of over 25 years,
Denise Barnes has been out there not only as a member of the Council, but as a Private Citizen, working during
the Pandemic to assure the Security of Senior Residents by the "FoodShare" programs at the Anaheim youth
center and also at Brookhurst Community Center and other food shares for people that are facing tough times in
the middle of this Pandemic namely Rancho la Paz Senior Community.
Denise Barnes would be the logical choice on the Senior Commission,her diligence her compassion for those in
need please put Denise Barnes on the Senior Commission.
Mark Richard Daniels
Born in Anaheim 1958 and a Lifelong Resident.
Public Comment
From: Edgar Arellano
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2021 7:07 PM
To: Public Comment; Jose Moreno; Jose Diaz; Jordan Brandman; Trevor O'Neil;
lkring@anaheim.net; Stephen Faessel; Avelino Valencia; Harry Sidhu (Mayor)
Subject: Kring's Appointment to Planning Commission
Slow clap for mediocrity.
Public Comment
From: Lauren Torres
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2021 12:52 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: FW: next vote
Attachments: Screenshot_20210213-190004_Nextdoor jpg
From: jodiemosley
Sent: Sunday, February 14, 20218:23 AM
To: Council <council@anaheim.net>; Sandra Lozeau <SLozeau@anaheim.net>; Jim Vanderpool
<JVanderpool@anaheim.net>; Jorge Cisneros <JCisneros@anaheim.net>; Harry Sidhu (Mayor) <HSidhu@anaheim.net>
Subject: next vote
Next time you vote to help another part of Anaheim, please remember what district 1 is going through.
Twila Reid Park is no better now than it was years ago.
We are desperate. Look at this photo. Imagine if this were you with your children.
Heroin addicts shooting up in front of kids and throwing the needles in the park grass. Building more
dense, cheap apartments isn't helping this area, please concentrate on west Anaheim real issues.
We really need help. We keep asking. We have done everything you've asked us to do, and this park
needs immediate change. It's our only park. And we never have been given the luxury here in district
1 of first priority.
Thank you.
Jodie Mosley
Sent from my T -Mobile 5G Device
7:00
5G,,,r 50% im
E. Angelica Sarmiento
Presidential Track 1 hr
ago
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F
Twila Reid Park. Today I took
my dogs for a walk at twila Reid
park and we saw homeless doing
drugs next to the restroom,
as we walk we found at less 3
Needles were kids were passing
by and no park ranger to let them
now about the needles
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