Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
11/15/2022
ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL REGULAR AND REGULAR ADJOURNED MEETING OF NOVEMBER 15, 2022 The regular meeting of November 15, 2022 was called to order at 3:00 P.M. and adjourned to 4:00 P.M. for lack of a quorum. The regular adjourned meeting was called to order at 4:03 P.M. in the Council Chamber of Anaheim City Hall, located at 200 S. Anaheim Boulevard. The meeting notice, agenda, and related materials were duly posted on November 10, 2022. MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Pro Tern Trevor O'Neil and Council Members Jose Diaz, Gloria Sahagun Ma'ae, Jose F. Moreno, and Stephen Faessel. Council Member Avelino Valencia joined the meeting during Closed Session. [Mayoral vacancy] 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 4:03 P.M., Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil recessed to closed session for consideration of the following: CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL -EXISTING LITIGATION (Subdivision (d)(1) of Section 54956.9 of the California Government Code) Name of Case: Sarah Riggs et al. v. City of Anaheim, et al. USDC Case No. 8:21-cv- 00749JVS (ADSx) 2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Subdivision (a) of Section 54957.6 of the California Government Code) Agency Designated Representative: Linda Andal, Human Resources Director Name of Employee ORGANIZATIONS: (1) Service Employees' International Union, United Service Workers West and (2) Teamsters, Local 952 At 5:11 P.M., Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil reconvened the Anaheim City Council. MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Pro Tern Trevor O'Neil and Council Members Jose Diaz, Gloria Sahagun Ma'ae, Jose F. Moreno, Avelino Valencia, and Stephen Faessel. [Mayoral vacancy] INVOCATION: Council Member Stephen Faessel FLAG SALUTE PRESENTATIONS Council Member Gloria Sahagun Ma'ae Recognizing the winners of the 2022 Anaheim Public Library/Altrusa/Anaheim Elementary School District Creative Writing Project Carol Lathan of Altrusa International of Anaheim and City Librarian Audrey Lujan presented certificates to the winners. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 2 of 30 Recognizing the 100th Birthday of Anaheim Resident Cecilia Delgado. Council Member Moreno recounted Ms. Delgado's life story and noted that City Council would be voting during the meeting on an official proclamation of recognition. (Item No. 02). ACCEPTANCE OF OTHER RECOGNITIONS (To be presented at a later date): Recognizing Saturday, November 26, 2022, as Small Business Saturday ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA: City Clerk Theresa Bass announced staff requested the withdrawal of Item No. 15, an agreement with Inglis Police Dog Academy. PUBLIC COMMENTS (all aaenda items, except public hearin City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of 10 public comments were received electronically prior to 5:00 P.M. related to City Council agenda items and matters within the jurisdiction of the Anaheim City Council. [A final total of 11 public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official record]. — See Appendix. After Ms. Bass announced the public comment procedures, Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil encouraged speakers to be civil during public comments. He noted that City Council tends to receive some colorful comments. He acknowledged that City Council is very limited in what it can do to control what the public has to say but requested they be addressed with civility, respect, and rational articulation. He explained comments are always better received by City Council when delivered in this manner. Mark Richard Daniels stated that City Council can make a difference in the City's future by approving Item No. 03 to leave a positive legacy as they leave office. He advised it is very important to help prevent future City Councils from hiding from the public like former Mayor Harry Sidhu. Wes Jones thanked Council Member Moreno for his service to the City and expressed regret he could no longer serve. He implored the City Council to approve Item No. 03 so the investigation is transparent. He believed that the Disneyland parking structure is a gift of public funds. Mike Robbins noted the City needs transparency and Item No. 03 is important to provide it and better limit the power of special interests. He believed that Council Members, other than Council Member Moreno, are criminals, traitors to democracy, and liars to their oaths of office because their votes are for'money and not the people. He noted financial interests are stealing the reins of government and enabling private power over the democratic will of the people, citing a speech by former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He noted new special interest paid -for candidates have been elected to the City Council, extending their control. He advised the policing agencies being defied have not stood down and would continue to monitor the City Council's illegal actions and report them to the proper authorities. Jeanine Robbins reported she is a member of the People's Homeless Task Force which sued the City over Brown Act violations during the illegal sale of Angel Stadium. She criticized the lack of transparency around the deal and noted the Council Members are all currently under investigation for their actions. She noted public comments about a lack of transparency and resident input were mocked and met with harassment by the majority of the City Council. She stated the results of the ensuing audit must be released to the public, noting it is the illegal doings of the Council that are City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 3 of 30 forcing residents to pay for the audit. She advised that it is the City Council's lack of transparency that has put the City in this position as it ignored repeated cautionary public comments. She bemoaned the City Council's public shock in the media and implored it to restore public trust by approving Item No. 03 to release the audit results to the people who paid for it. Vern Nelson noted it is ironic that Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Member Ma'ae were collateral damage by being defeated, despite voting against campaign finance reform, while helping Disney accomplish its goal of continuing the Council control through incoming Council Members. He criticized the influence of Disney's Political Action Committee (PAC) and Save Our Anaheim Resort (SOAR), which lead to crooked activity in Anaheim, noting Disneyland Resort Director of External Affairs Carrie Nocella was part of the cabal. He noted that Disney spent over $1,000,000 on the 2022 City Council campaigns and is the largest member of the discredited Anaheim Chamber of Commerce. He questioned why SOAR has to spend so much money when it should already have everything it wants. He encouraged City Council to approve Item No. 03 so the residents could learn how they were nearly swindled out of Angel Stadium through an audit they paid for. Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development (OCCORD) Director of Programs Marisol Ramirez stated there are issues of integrity between the Council and the people. She stated that OCCORD has had enough and noted the investigation of the Angel Stadium sale would connect campaign contributions and contracts through "pay to play." She stated that residents have a right to know about the findings, deserve transparency, and need to have their trust restored. She commented that residents have had enough of their Council Members serving corporate interests and demanded approval of Item No. 03. OCCORD's Campaign Manager Fernando Delgado thanked the youth in attendance for coming and seeing how the City Council operates. He explained that what is happening in Anaheim is not normal with a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigation and residents needing to show up to encourage their City Council to release the results of a corruption investigation. He reported that OCCORD directly encouraged each Council Member to discuss the investigation with residents of their districts and only Council Member Moreno accepted the invitation. He encouraged the other Council Members to help educate the community about the investigation without divulging details of the investigation itself. He advised that it is the bare minimum they could do as elected representatives. He noted Judge Clay Smith is operating under the assumption the work will eventually be in the public domain, so this is an invalid reason cited by Council Members Ma'ae and Faessel to not meet with the people. He added the investigation is being conducted with taxpayer dollars and challenged the Council to live up to what residents deserve by approving Item No. 03 and showing they are not afraid of the results. Javier Aguilar called for City Council accountability and encouraged them to approve Item No. 03. Sandra Cazares encouraged City Council to approve Item No. 03. She stated that she loves her city and is concerned about the City and the FBI investigations. She explained the reason for a City investigation is for the Council Members to clear their names and expressed concerns about why the City Council would even consider not showing off the results. She stated taxpayers who are paying for the investigation deserve to see the results. Carmen Landin (translation: Spanish) stated her community has many needs and pondered why there is no money for resident needs. She called on her representative, Council Member Valencia, to make the results of the investigation public. She advised the public has a right to know who is involved in the fraud. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 4 of 30 Guadalupe Hernandez (translation: Spanish) stated she lives close to Disneyland in District 2. She reported rents in her neighborhood are increasing and it is a challenge as a single mother working three jobs. She called for her representative, Council Member Ma'ae, and the City Council to provide more community resources. She endorsed approving Item No. 03. She advised her daughter was fired from her job in Anaheim due to the corruption, yet despite that she still loves the City. Mariana Angeles (translation: Spanish) reported her Ponderosa neighborhood has worked for years to have a beautiful park, community center, and community garden. She reported her neighbors have organized to get traffic lights at the intersection of Orangewood Avenue and Mountain View Avenue. She questioned the point of having Disneyland, the Los Angeles Angels, and the Honda Center if the money cannot be invested in communities. She advised she has had to fruitlessly fight repeatedly for Council Member Valencia to meet with her community. She encouraged him to do something for the residents and show he cares before leaving for the State Assembly by voting to approve Item No. 03. She encouraged him to leave the City Council with a call for a transparent government. Council Member Valencia thanked Ms. Angeles for her invitation to the community meeting and clarified he had a prior commitment that night as the keynote speaker at a fundraiser for the Katella High School Boys' Basketball team. Benita Borgio (translation: Spanish) expressed her disappointment in what she has heard about the City Council, coming from a corrupt country in Nicaragua. She stated she does not wish for Anaheim to become as corrupt as Nicaragua, noting her grandfather was imprisoned for eight years for not being pro -government. She demanded Council Member Valencia vote yes on Item No. 03 so the corruption investigation would become public. Guadalupe Vasabe (translation: Spanish) stated she is there to defend the social and educational interests of her young children. She stated the corruption in Anaheim infuriates her. She demanded transparency and that the information about the investigation be released to the public. She stated Council Member Valencia does not defend resources for his district residents and will not meet with the community to address their needs. She decried the City's fiscal inability to repair a school bus with a leaking roof. She called upon Council Member Valencia to vote yes on Item No. 03 so the results of the corruption investigation could become public. Valerie Garcia stated the Council Members did not appear to care about their residents. She congratulated Council Member Valencia on his election to the State Assembly and expressed hope that he will understand his community's needs. She expressed disappointment at the political corruption in Anaheim and the lack of community investment in areas such as housing. She added that schools are overdue for improvements. She requested the investigation report in Item No. 03 be made public and transparent. She stated the government should not be afraid to be accountable if it is doing the best possible for the benefit of all. Alma Vazquez expressed concerns for her daughter, a graduate from California State University, Fullerton, due to out -of -control rent increases. She stated that City Council, and specifically Council Member Valencia, does not support rent control, impacting the entire City. She questioned what the Council's corporate donors have done for residents. She called for Council Member Valencia to vote yes on Item No. 03. Donna Acevedo Nelson stated she has been coming to City Council meetings since her son, Joel Acevedo, was murdered by the Anaheim Police Department (APD) in 2012, noting nine other young men were also killed by the APD that year. She stated she began coming to the meetings for transparency over what happened to her son, noting the independent investigation over the death of City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 5 of 30 her son was never made public. She stated there is a legacy of non -transparency and corruption in the City. She noted the City refused to provide important information about the sale of Angel Stadium despite requests from residents. She recounted several memories at Angel Stadium and added it should be passed on to the next generation, unlike the City's previous downtown district. She called to make the corruption investigation public, along with everything else, including the Office of Independent Review (OIR) reports on police killings. Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) Executive Director Diana Kotler thanked City Council for its direction at the last meeting in support of public transportation services. She thanked City staff for its leadership in expediting ATN's plans. She expressed ATN's full support for Item No. 23. She added it would allow for the continued operation of public transit services through the transfer of assets to its new primary facility. She added the item would be considered tomorrow by ATN's Board of Directors with a staff recommendation of approval. She reported that ATN is eager to begin this process. Susana Galan (translation: Spanish) stated she is a District 3 resident and leader of a newly formed Pauline St. neighborhood union with the support of OCCORD. She decried the City's abandonment of the neighborhood and lack of housing services. She stated that most of the Council only listens to corporations and showed a lack of transparency about the sale of Angel Stadium. She demanded that City Council approve Item No. 03 to make the investigation results available to the public. She thanked Council Member Moreno for always having time for residents. Alexis Teodoro demanded that City Council vote yes on Item No. 03 to ensure the investigation becomes public once completed. He decried how the City Council, except for Council Member Moreno, has mainly voted against the interests of working families, who are at the heart of the City, live paycheck to paycheck, and pay over 50% of their income on rent. He stated that City Council has had many chances to uplift democracy and transparency but voted against it. He noted the City let the rental assistance program expire during a pandemic. He advised that City Council lacks the transparency guaranteed in the United States Constitution. He called on the majority of Council Members to vote on the side of transparency by approving Item No. 03. Rebecca Kovacs -Stein reported on a media report about the October 25, 2022 City Council meeting's update from Judge Clay Smith, noting there is an investigation and audit in Anaheim about City contracts awarded out of "pay to play" politics. She stated the reports indicate investigators have made it clear to City officials that they are on to something, and past actions would require additional investigative scrutiny. She expressed hope that the City Council would make the final investigator's report public by approving Item No. 03. She mourned the recent passing of her client, Nowella Kilikina Kaehu, and thanked the City for allowing her to receive housing and other services. Sami Lodi stated there is little dignity in having to live in your car. He stated the Council's corruption has helped create the environment that is eroding Anaheim's community. He stated the opportunity to fix it is getting further away as the Council carries on with corruption and impunity. He stated special interest money's involvement is wrong and that the lack of transparency about it is worse. He believed that City Council would continue the status quo if a change was not demanded. He demanded the City Council unanimously approve Item No. 03 for transparency and justice. He noted the investigation was intended to clear their names after the FBI investigation, but the tone has shifted since it does not appear to be going the City Council's way. He stated the investigation is being conducted with taxpayer dollars and there is an expectation that the findings become publicly available. He noted that Council Members have nothing to hide if they have done nothing wrong but noted the public deserves to know if Council Members have done something wrong. He advised the public would accept no less than transparency. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 6 of 30 Lizzette Barrios-Gracian expressed concern about what is happening in the City. She stated that school children she teaches sometimes cannot afford to remain housed, leading to depression and suicide attempts. She stated only a few can live with dignity in Anaheim. She believed it was pathetic that things have not gotten better in the 40 years since her childhood when her parents worked as hard as she does today. She lamented how Council Member Diaz talks often about the horrible government of Cuba yet has gone from being victimized by the Cuban government to participating in another corrupt government. She expressed hope that Council would make the right decision and unanimously approve Item No. 03. She noted there are students in the audience and implored the Council to show them how people can make mistakes and yet always have room for redemption. She called for transparency. David Duran called on Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil to retract his meeting -prefacing statements which go against the United States Constitution because the people have a right to free speech, and he does not have the right to squelch what residents say. He stated Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil owes the crowd an apology. He demanded that City Council vote in favor of Item No. 03, stating transparency is long overdue in Anaheim. He thanked Council Member Moreno for his service. He noted this is National Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week and added it is a time to remember the City's less fortunate. He reported Anaheim has had over 80 homeless die in 2022, eclipsing any other Orange County city. He believed that City Council does not care about homeless people like Ms. Kilikina Kaehu but added they should be remembered. He advised the residents expect transparency. Eymi Arellano (translation: Spanish) thanked Council Member Moreno for all he did to help the City and wished him well in the future. She called for answers about the investigation and information about who is supporting the City Council's decisions. She stated the public wants to have trust and confidence in the City Council. She added the residents need to be able to progress toward better well-being. She called for the City to improve its transparency to build trust and lead to a better future for residents. Sylvia reported the young students honored earlier for winning the creative writing contest were told their voices matter but inquired about their voices as parents. She requested that Council Members hear their call for the results of the investigation to be made public as soon as they are finalized. She stated the City Council should not only vote yes to Item No. 03 but also ensure the release is immediate. She added a simple yes vote is all that is needed if they have nothing to hide. She called for transparency and the arrest of the APD officers who killed Brandon Lopez. Bob Donelson thanked Council Member Moreno for his time on the Council and the changes he brought to Anaheim. He stated the City needs more people like Council Member Moreno, noting he exposed how badly the City was ripped off in the 1997 Disney parking garage deal. He stated this first parking garage was a good deal for the City compared to the second one with the City building the garages for nothing in return. He stated the deal would not have been approved if residents knew at the time what went into it, citing the Angel Stadium deal. He stated that City Council needs to approve Item No. 03 to ensure transparency. He added that Council Members should not be protecting each other if they did something wrong because they serve the residents. He noted every speaker so far has called for transparency with no one calling for the results to remain hidden. Kenneth Batiste reported that in 1997 the City agreed to spend $1 billion to build parking lots at Disneyland with Disney operating the garages and keeping all of the revenue. He noted Disney's revenues from those garages have far exceeded what the City paid to build them. He stated the investigation is the people's investigation paid for by the people. He questioned how residents could assume the Council would do the right thing and make it public when citizens cannot get a gate tax or campaign finance reform, have their federal pandemic relief funds diverted to Visit Anaheim and the City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 7 of 30 Chamber of Commerce, give the campaign -donating Anaheim Police Department union chief a large contract, etc. He stated if the investigation would show the Council is doing the right thing, they would not be having this discussion because they would want to put the report to the public. He stated Disney does not care about the residents and just wants its way. He decried how the City Council's Hispanic members would not support a rent control item despite the City's Hispanic population's struggles. He expressed his pleasure at Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil's electoral defeat. Paul Hyek called for better bus station signage and a new Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) bus stop just outside the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). He noted all of the City of Riverside's homeless shelters are walk-ins on bus lines. He encouraged finding jobs for the homeless. He stated Mercy House is corrupt and the transportation director is teaching drivers to bully legitimate drivers. John Dunton reported 15 children have been lost over the past 30 days in California from either gun violence or drunk drivers, including one locally — a nine -year -old girl killed by a drunk driver. He encouraged residents not to drink and drive. He noted the City's investigation report would come out one way or another because it could also happen through a court petition. He added there is extensive case law indicating the report has to be released regardless of the City's wishes and encouraged getting advice from the City Attorney. He thanked Council Member Moreno for his years of help to residents and service to the City. Cecilia S. Flores reported Item No. 2021-00218 would go before the Planning Commission next month, impacting the safety of her neighborhood. She stated there is presently a church at 2780 East Wagner Avenue which would be converted to a charter school, bringing traffic and congestion to a peaceful neighborhood. She stated the area is not a safe place for a school. She noted the property only has one insufficiently narrow entrance adding congestion to a busy intersection and expressed concerns about noise. She reported hearing the school transition would happen and, if so, requested reducing the proposed number of students. She expressed concerns that neighborhood voices would be heard by the Planning Commission and City Council. She presented a petition signed by 100 residents in opposition to the school. She stated the plan attempts to put 10 pounds of potatoes in a five -pound bag and requested the concerns of neighbors are heard. Cecil Jordan Corkern reported he is working on gun laws for schools and his report on pedophiles at Disneyland. He reported hearing that former President Donald Trump is not mentally stable enough to hold the office again, but they would see what happens because former President Trump will run for the Presidency. He stated he has been working on gun laws since Tom Tait served as Anaheim's Mayor in 2017 and provided an update on his work. He reported Russia is unsafe globally due to its new rockets. He encouraged Council Member Valencia to keep Anaheim's schools safe. Bryan Kaye questioned why Council Member Valencia would not want today's children to experience the same healthy positive feelings he did while growing up in Anaheim. He questioned why Council Member Ma'ae is so shocked when he regularly reports a hate crime against him by the Anaheim Police Department (APD) using a racial slur and she is not shocked at APD Chief Jorge Cisneros whom she should instruct to not let his officers use the racial slur. He believed that City Council has decided the conduct is acceptable. He reported a resident recently went to the Police Review Board to compliment the APD's improvements but Board Member Jason Khoo kicked her out of the meeting to dehumanize her. He stated Board Member Khoo learned this behavior from the Council, which feels it is appropriate to ignore petitions from the people. He chastised the Council Members for not doing the dirty work to improve the City and stated that City Council is comprised of cowards who are too busy spending the City's money. He stated Council Member Diaz is an embarrassment for City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 8 of 30 coming to the United States from a Communist country and doing the same things here and criticized Council Member Diaz for ignoring the people. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS: Council Member Faessel requested the meeting adjourn in memory of Mary Jo Hesketh, a member of the women's division of the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce, the Anaheim Arts Council, and the Harp Guild; Andrew Ersek, Anaheim resident, St. Boniface attendee, and Rotary Club member; and Jimmy Phong Khuu, an employee of Vibrant Minds Charter School who was killed while riding his bicycle. Council Member Moreno thanked his colleagues for recognizing Cecilia Delgado, thanked staff for a Balsam neighborhood meeting where they discussed red curbs and parking challenges, and thanked staff for a neighborhood walk and meeting in the Vine neighborhood tonight. He reported his attendance at Supervisor Chaffee's Kindness Awards. He requested that staff follow up with residents on Pauline Street regarding actions taken and outcomes related to their property concerns and code enforcement. He acknowledged the efforts and work of Project SAY in the Dia de los Muertos program and event and asked to adjourn the meeting in memory of the woman referenced during public comments. Council Member Ma'ae thanked staff for coordinating a meeting with residents adjacent to the railroad tracks. She noted that the Veterans Day Ceremony was beautiful and suggested everyone visit the Veterans Memorial adjacent to the Muzeo to see the artistic monument. She reported her attendance at a Coffee with a Cop event at Sandals Church on Saturday and noted that it is a great facility located at the corner of Gilbert and Crescent with many resources. Council Member Diaz highlighted Tacos Los Bandidos, a small, family -run, new restaurant at 3414 West Ball Road. He also highlighted Beachwood Apartment Homes and their contribution to residents and the streetscape of Beach Blvd. at Orange Avenue. He announced a West Anaheim Organization meeting on Thursday, November 17 at 6:30 P.M. at the Brookhurst Community Center with the Police Department. CITY MANAGER'S UPDATE: City Manager Jim Vanderpool invited Police Chief Jorge Cisneros to provide an update on recruitment and retention efforts. Police Chief Cisneros thanked City Council for approving the incentive program and Lt. Lopez and the recruitment team for their efforts. Chief Cisneros reported to date, the department had received 3,005 applications to become a police officer, with 2,600 as trainees with no experience and 329 as laterals, police officers currently serving other communities. As of last Friday, Police Chief Cisneros reported the department had filled 384 of 408 budgeted police officer positions, with year-to-date numbers of hiring 45 officers, with an additional 11 trainees and four (4) laterals starting November 25, 2022, bringing the year's totals to 60, 36 laterals and 24 trainees. Of the initial 45, he noted that 32 were laterals and 13 were trainees, with the employees identifying as 54% Hispanic, 24% White, 17% Asian, 3% Black, 2% Middle Eastern, and 16% female (increasing to 20% with the new employees), over 74% have a bachelor's degree or higher, and 16% reside in Anaheim. He noted that recruitment efforts would continue. Mr. Vanderpool announced that Public Utilities would be hosting their annual Holiday Light Exchange on November 19 where residents will be able to recycle older holiday lights and receive LED lights that are more energy efficient. Residents will also be able to donate new unwrapped toys that will City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 9 of 30 benefit Anaheim youth. He invited residents to register at www.Anaheim.net/holidaylights and attend from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Center Street Promenade this Saturday. On behalf of the City Clerk's Office, Mr. Vanderpool noted their department was hosting a Passport Day on Saturday, December 3 from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the Downtown Anaheim Community Center, 250 E. Center Street. No appointment is necessary and passport photos would be available onsite. Visit www.anaheim.net/passports for additional information or call the City Clerk's Office at 714-765-5166. Mr. Vanderpool announced that Community Services staff, along with the Nutcracker Committee and the Downtown Anaheim Association, would like to invite you to attend the 28th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration and Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim on Saturday, December 3. He noted that Center Street Promenade would be transformed into a "Holiday Village" featuring activities for families from 12:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. including free children's craft booths, visits with Santa, holiday crafters, refreshments, and entertainment. The tree lighting ceremony will begin at 6:00 P.M. and last approximately one hour with performances by local school choirs, the Anaheim Ballet, and a reading by Santa. He further announced that residents could experience the spirit of a traditional Victorian Christmas at historic Founders' Park, 400 N. West Street. Saturdays, December 3rd, 10th and January 7th from 9:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. This family -friendly experience features holiday decorations at both the Mother Colony and Woelke-Stoffel Houses, highlighting the Victorian roots of many of our modern traditions. A special feature this year is displays of Victorian -era toys and games, with hands-on activities for children. Visitors to the Carriage House will learn how to size oranges and wrap them in holiday tissue paper, just as the packing house workers prepared Valencia oranges for shipping to the east coast for Christmas. This event is free and open to the public. On behalf of the Housing and Community Development Department, Mr. Vanderpool provided an update on the use of State HomeKey Funds awarded to the City in March of this year for the Studio 6 project. A ribbon -cutting ceremony was held on October 26, 2022, to mark the completion of minor rehabilitation and the beginning of the move -in process. As previously shared, the City was awarded approximately $26,500,000 in HomeKey funds to acquire and operate the former Studio 6 Motel located at 1251 N. Harbor Blvd. The purpose of these funds is to expedite the delivery of housing options for those experiencing homelessness. With these critical funds, the City, in partnership with Linc Housing and American Family Housing, completed the acquisition of the Studio 6 site in May 2022. In addition to State funds, the City also received significant assistance from the County for ongoing support services to be used once the site is operational. Mr. Vanderpool noted that the property will be used for two distinct housing opportunities. In the first phase, which is now underway, the site will serve as interim housing, that is, congregate shelter. In this phase, 87 units are being used to house Anaheim and Orange County North SPA homeless. Supportive services and housing navigation are offered onsite to help link individuals to permanent housing. The staff has been working closely with City Net's Community Care Response Team (CCRT) to coordinate and ensure this new housing option is available to persons who are currently unsheltered. City Net has already identified 63 homeless individuals currently living in Anaheim who are seeking interim housing. These individuals, along with 23 pets and 20 vehicles, are now being processed to move into the site and should all be moved in by Thanksgiving. In phase two, the site will undergo more extensive rehabilitation. Once completed, the units will serve as permanent housing, with on -site supportive services. Staff anticipates the interim housing project will convert to permanent supportive housing by 2025. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 10 of 30 CONSENT CALENDAR: At 7:38 P.M., the Consent Calendar was considered with Council Member Moreno pulling Item Nos. 03, 23, 28, and 31 for separate discussion and consideration. MOTION: Council Member Faessel moved to waive reading of all ordinances and resolutions and adopt the balance of the consent calendar in accordance with reports, certifications, and recommendations furnished each City Council Member and as listed on the consent calendar, seconded by Council Member Diaz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES — 0. Motion carried. B105 1. Receive and file minutes of the Public Utilities Board meeting of September 28, 2022 and the Sister City Commission meetings of June 27, 2022, July 25, 2022, and August 22, 2022 D116 2. Approve a proclamation recognizing Cecilia Delgado's 100th birthday. D117 4. Approve the 2023 Investment Policy for the City of Anaheim. D106 5. Approve carryover expenditure appropriations of $121,171,238 from Fiscal Year 2021/22 to Fiscal Year 2022/23 for projects previously approved by the City Council but not completed. AGR-13144 6. Determine, on the basis of the evidence submitted by Melia Homes, Inc., that the property owner has complied in good faith with the terms and conditions of Development Agreement No. 2021-00001 for the 2022 review period for the 2323 West Broadway townhome project (Melia Townes at Broadway). AGR-4957 7. Determine, on the basis of evidence submitted by Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, that the property owner has complied in good faith with the terms and conditions of Development Agreement No. 2007-00003 for the 2022 review period for the Kaiser Hospital Campus Project, located at 3400-3450 East La Palma Avenue and 959-1001 North Grove Street. D180 8. Accept the bid from Major League Infields, Inc., in the amount of $147,600 plus a 15% contingency, to provide as -needed sports field maintenance services for a one year period with up to four one-year optional renewals; and authorize the Purchasing Agent to exercise the renewal options, in accordance with Bid #9620. D180 9• Accept the bid from ConvergeOne, Inc., in the amount of $894,916.08 plus applicable tax, for the purchase of Cisco network equipment and support for use by the Information Services Division as part of an update to their disaster recovery plan, in accordance with Bid #9621. D180 10. Accept the bid from Omega Fire, Inc., in the amount of $27,670 plus applicable tax and a 20% contingency, to provide fire extinguisher maintenance services at various sites throughout the City for a one year period with up to four one-year optional renewals; and authorize the Purchasing Agent to execute the renewal options, in accordance with Bid #9612. D180 11. Waive Council Policy 4.0 and ratify the purchase of three Pierce fire engines from South Coast Fire Equipment, Inc., in the amount of $2,784,350.92 (which includes all applicable taxes and fees), for the Anaheim Fire & Rescue Department. (This purchase was made utilizing a cooperative purchase agreement established by the Houston -Galveston Area Council, and awarded to Pierce Manufacturing. Under the terms of the agreement the purchase is being made through their local authorized reseller). City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 11 of 30 AGR-13838 12. Award the construction contract to the lowest responsible bidder, R. J. Noble Company, in the amount of $10,924,725.90, for the construction of Residential Street Improvement Project — Amboy — Group 15 in the area generally bounded by Euclid Street, Ball Road, and Manchester Avenue; authorize the Director of Public Works to execute the contract and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the contract; determine the project is categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Sections 15301, Class 1, and 15302, Class 2, of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations; and authorize the Finance Director to execute the Escrow Agreement pertaining to contract retentions. AGR-13839 13. Waive Council Policy 4.0 and authorize the Purchasing Agent to enter into an agreement with Multimedia Integrated Technology dba Integrated Technology, in an amount not to exceed $108,000 plus applicable taxes, for telephone system maintenance and repair services for a one year period and authorize the extension of the agreement on a month to month basis, at a monthly amount not to exceed $9,500 plus applicable taxes, for up to an additional twelve months. AGR-13840 14. Waive Council Policy 4.1 and approve an agreement with David Taussig & Associates, Inc. dba DTA, in an amount not to exceed $97,240, for Communities Facilities Districts Special Tax Consulting Services for the ocV!BE Project; and authorize the Public Works Director to execute and take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement. AGR-13902 15. Waive Council Policy 4.1 and approve an agreement with Inglis Police Dog Academy, in an amount not to exceed $400,000, for services related to purchasing, training, and boarding working police service dogs; and authorize the Chief of Police to execute any amendments under the terms and conditions of the agreement. Item No. 15 withdrawn by staff no action taken. AGR-13841 16. Waive Council Policy 4.0 and approve the adoption of the integrated technology platform provided by Axon Enterprises, Inc. (Axon) as the sole enterprise system used by the Anaheim Police Department for storage of data and evidence, body -worn cameras, Taser Electronic Incapacitation Devices, unmanned aerial systems, and other related network solution systems and equipment; and approve an agreement with Axon, in substantial form subject to review and approval by the City Attorney's Office, and authorize the Purchasing Agent to execute the agreement and other required documents, with a not to exceed amount of $10,137,642.92 over the seven year term; and authorize the Chief of Police to take the necessary actions to implement the agreement. AGR-5476.4 17. Approve the Fourth Amendment to Agreement with Frome Developments Omega, LLC for leased warehouse space for the storage of property and evidence for the Police Department, in a total amount of $81,120, to extend the term of the agreement for a two year period beginning December 1, 2022 and to increase the monthly rental rate to $3,320 per month for December 1, 2022 to November 30, 2023 and to $3,440 per month for December 1, 2023 to November 30, 2024; and authorize the Chief of Police, or designee, to execute the amendment. AGR-13842 18. Approve agreements with RCS Investigations & Consulting, LLC and Oracle Investigations AGR-13843 Group, LLC, in the respective not to exceed amounts of $325,000 per year and $250,000 per year, for pre -employment background investigations for a three year period, with one one-year optional renewal; and authorize the Human Resources Director, or designee, to execute the City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 12 of 30 agreements, renewal options, and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreements. AGR-13844 19. Approve the Safety Consulting Services Agreement (Agreement) with four prequalified AGR-13845 consultants and such other safety services consultants that may be prequalified during the AGR-13846 term of the Agreement for as -needed safety services, each in a not to exceed amount of AGR-13847 $500,000 per consultant for the entire five-year term of the Agreement and any term extensions, with authorization for extra work in an amount per work order not to exceed $10,000 or 15% of cost, whichever is greater; authorize the Public Utilities General Manager to execute the Agreements for a five-year term with up to two one-year extensions as needed to complete ongoing projects; authorize the Public Utilities General Manager, or designee, to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the Agreements; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the Agreement, as determined by the City Attorney (A -Tech Consulting, Inc.; ALTA Environmental, L.P., an NV5 Company; Global Environmental Network, Inc.; TRC Solutions, Inc.). D182 20. Approve the City of Anaheim's Task Order related to the Master Professional Services Agreement between the Southern California Public Power Authority and K2 Fabrication, Inc. dba K2 Design and Fabrication for professional services for sustainability educational exhibit design and fabrication, in a not to exceed amount of $1,500,000 with a 15% contingency for extra services; and authorize the Public Utilities General Manager, or designee, to approve task orders and related documents and to take the necessary, required, or advisable actions to fund, participate, and administer the City's Task Order. AGR-13848 21. Approve a Professional Design Services Agreement, in substantial form, with RDC-S111, Inc., in the amount of $964,581, to design and engineer the Store One Food Incubator and Job Training Center Project; and authorize the Director of Housing and Community Development, or designee, to execute and administer the agreement and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement the agreement. AGR-9959.1 22. Approve the First Amendment to Agreement with Ardurra Group Inc., formerly known as Anderson Penna Partners, Inc., increasing the agreement not to exceed amount from $727,099 to $842,442, for design and engineering services for the Lincoln Avenue Widening Project from East Street to Evergreen Street, and authorize the Director of Public Works to execute the amendment and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the amended agreement. Pilo 24. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-131 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM vacating a public utility easement located at 2871 East John Ball Way pursuant to California Streets and Highway Code Section 8330, et seq.-Summary Vacation (ABA2022-00416). D175 25. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-132 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting the Measure M2 Expenditure Report and authorizing the City of Anaheim Finance Director to sign and submit the Expenditure Report to the Orange County Transportation Authority on behalf of the City of Anaheim. AGR-13850 26. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-133 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM authorizing the Chief of Police or his designee to submit a grant application on behalf of the City of Anaheim to the California Office of Emergency Services, for the 2022 Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) Grant Program (includes authorization to City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 13 of 30 amend the Fiscal Year 2022/23 Police Department's restricted Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Fund budget, as appropriate, upon receipt of grant funds). Authorize the City Manager to execute the Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Santa Ana designating the City of Anaheim as the single point of contact for the 2022 UASI Grant Program. E150 27. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-134 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving amendments to the Conflict of Interest Code for the City and various City agencies. D154.1 29• RESOLUTION NO. 2022-136 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY D154.2 OF ANAHEIM adopting a Memorandum of Understanding establishing terms and conditions of D154.8 employment including modification of pay policies, creating, deleting, and/or modifying certain classifications for employees in classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, General Employees and superseding Resolution Nos. 2010-205, 2019-105, 2019-107, 2022-008, and 2022-027 (effective June 24, 2022 through July 3, 2025). RESOLUTION NO. 2022-137 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting a Memorandum of Understanding establishing terms and conditions of employment including creating, deleting, and/or modifying certain classifications for employees in classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, Clerical Employees and superseding Resolution Nos. 2016-224, 2019-108, 2022-028 and 2022-029 (effective June 24, 2022 through July 3, 2025). RESOLUTION NO. 2022-138 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting a Memorandum of Understanding establishing terms and conditions of employment including modification of pay policies for employees in classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, Part -Time Unit and superseding Resolution Nos. 2006-244, 2019-104 and 2019-118 (effective June 24, 2022 through July 3, 2025). Amend the Fiscal Year 2022/23 budget by $3,350,800 D154 30. RESOLUTION NO 2022-139 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY D154.9 OF ANAHEIM adopting amended Personnel Rules and Policies for Non -Represented Full- M142 Time and Part -Time Employees including modification of pay policies, deleting certain classifications designated as Non -Represented Part -Time, establishing rates of compensation for certain classifications designated as Non -Represented Full -Time and Part -Time; and superseding Resolution Nos. 2005-109, 2006-116, 2007-098, 2016-033, 2017-038, 2021-006, 2021-122 and 2022-017 and all amendments thereto. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-140 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting a Letter of Understanding with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Local 2002 (AFSCME); and amending Appendix B of the Memorandum of Understanding between AFSCME Professional/Technical Management Unit and the City of Anaheim by way of amendment to Resolution No. 2021-120. ORDINANCE NO. 6548 (INTRODUCTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Chapter 1.05 of Title 1 of the Anaheim Municipal City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 14 of 30 Code (pertaining to the Personnel System Administration, Scope, Appointments, and Access to Criminal History Information). Amend the Fire & Rescue Department's Fiscal Year 2022/23 budget by $448,110 F130.2 32. ORDINANCE NO 6546 (ADOPTION) AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM granting a non-exclusive franchise to Cabco Yellow, Inc. dba California Yellow Cab, for the purpose of operating taxicab service in the City of Anaheim (operation of 205 taxicabs within the City of Anaheim; introduced at the City Council meeting of November 1, 2022, Public Hearing Item No. 17). ORDINANCE NO 6547 (ADOPTION) AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM granting a non-exclusive franchise to American Ground Transportation, Inc. and American Ground Transportation, LLC dba 24/7 Taxi Cab, for the purpose of operating taxicab service in the City of Anaheim (operation of 50 taxicabs within the City of Anaheim; introduced at the City Council meeting of November 1, 2022, Public Hearing Item No. 17). D114 33. Approve minutes of the City Council meeting of July 19, 2022. END OF CONSENT CALENDAR: D112 3. Confirm and provide direction to the JL Group, LLC, Judge Clay Smith, and City staff to make public upon receipt by the City (1) the final report resulting from the independent investigation and audit regarding campaign contributions and city contracts, regardless of whether any additional addenda or work to the report is subsequently requested and (2) in the event City Council or staff request addenda or work in addition to the final report, any requested addenda or work product. City Attorney Robert Fabela reported that on August 9, 2022, City Council approved the selection of JL Group, LLC to conduct an independent investigation and audit into the campaign contributions to former Mayor Sidhu and the Council Members in response to the allegations in the federal investigation. He added the Council also selected Judge Clay Smith to oversee the investigation. He added that at the November 1, 2022 meeting, Council Member Moreno requested an item to confirm that the report would be made public whenever it is completed and received. He stated this is the City Council's opportunity to ensure the report will be made public and provide any direction about its handling. DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno added his request also included any addenda to be made public. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Mr. Fabela confirmed a future City Council would have to agendize the item and have a public vote to make the report confidential. He stated this item is an explicit confirmation of the assumption that the final reports will be made public. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to confirm and provide direction to the JL Group, LLC, Judge Clay Smith, and City staff to make public upon receipt by the City (1) the final report resulting from the independent investigation and audit regarding campaign contributions and city contracts, regardless of whether any additional addenda or work to the report is subsequently requested and (2) in the event City Council or staff request addenda or work in addition to the final report, any requested addenda or work product, seconded by Council Member Diaz. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 15 of 30 DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiry, Mr. Fabela confirmed the assumption was always to make the final report public. Council Member Valencia noted there was an assumption among the public commenters earlier that the report would not be publicly released, and he was glad to hear it was never the intention. He expressed satisfaction with the item and expressed his understanding of the public distrust leading to the need for this confirmation. He added it is a simple decision to support the item. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to confirm and provide direction to the JL Group, LLC, Judge Clay Smith, and City staff to make public upon receipt by the City (1) the final report resulting from the independent investigation and audit regarding campaign contributions and city contracts, regardless of whether any additional addenda or work to the report is subsequently requested and (2) in the event City Council or staff request addenda or work in addition to the final report, any requested addenda or work product, seconded by Council Member Diaz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES — 0. Motion carried. AGR- 23. Approve a First Amendment to Right of Entry and License Agreement, in substantial form, 13849.1 with Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) to address the relocation of ATN's operations for property located at 1234 and 1280 South Anaheim Boulevard and 200 East Ball Road; and authorize the Economic Development Director to execute the First Amendment to Right of Entry and License Agreement and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the amended agreement (with Relocation Plan as an exhibit to First Amendment). Director of Economic Development Sergio Ramirez reported that at the last City Council meeting the Council approved a Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) between the City and Greenlaw Development, LLC for an 8.8-acre site at the corner of Anaheim Blvd. and Ball Road. He added that since 2015, ATN has had a Right of Entry and License Agreement and has used a portion of the property for bus parking and driver break room space. He reported that at the last meeting City Council expressed its desire for ATN to remain on the property until its new permanent facility at 1227 S. Claudina St. is completed. Mr. Ramirez reported all parties involved have met since the last meeting and cooperated, leading to the proposed First Amendment to the Right of Entry and License Agreement. He expressed his appreciation to ATN, Greenlaw, and legal counsels for crafting this agreement supported by all involved. DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno noted that at the last meeting, ATN requested a continuation of the item because its Board of Directors had not yet had an opportunity to review the agreement. He noted Ms. Kotler's public comments about the ATN Board still not having approved the agreement and expressed his concerns. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Ramirez clarified the ATN Board President, an ATN Board Member as legal counsel, and Ms. Kotler have all directly been part of the negotiations over the past few weeks. Ms. Kotler added that this Agreement, which the ATN Board will vote on tomorrow, has been reviewed by their legal counsel and confirmed ATN agrees with the content and process outlined in the Agreement. She added the ATN Executive Committee has been regularly updated about the Agreement and supports the Agreement. She added ATN staff is preparing to present the item to its Board with anticipation of including the City Council's support tonight. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 16 of 30 In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Ms. Kotler confirmed the ATN Board has not yet approved the Agreement. She noted the ATN has kept its executives updated on the progress of the Agreement and followed City Council's direction at the last meeting to include City staff in the negotiations. Council Member Moreno reported Ms. Kotler had previously asked the Council to hold off on the Item until its Board could approve the Agreement and he is honoring this request at the last meeting by pulling the item tonight. He noted several Board Members were involved in the negotiations but added this is not the entire governing Board. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Ramirez confirmed that a majority of the ATN Board was not involved in the negotiations. He added the Agreement is contingent on the Board's approval. Council Member Moreno reported both ATN and its lobbyist have made campaign donations to former Mayor Sidhu. He noted the Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA) was the time -sensitive portion of the item at the last meeting and this component is less urgent. He urged his peers to not decide on the matter until the investigation is completed because ATN has paid $55,000 to a lobbyist who has been involved in campaign funding for former Mayor Sidhu and other Council Members. He added ATN and its officers have also donated to campaigns. He added that Greenlaw has also been involved in campaigns and the ongoing investigation's purpose is to determine if these donations have led to quid pro quo contracts. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to continue the item until the completion of the investigation so the public can be assured any campaign donations are not influencing a decision. DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiry, Ms. Kotler clarified that ATN does not make political contributions, however, what happens at the private level is the prerogative of America's democracy. She reported that ATN's Board is comprised of 15 elected members representing different interests within the City. She listed most of the members of the ATN Board and their corporate affiliations. In response to Council Member Valencia's inquiries, Ms. Kotler confirmed Dan Lee, Anaheim Convention Center Deputy Director, is on the Board to represent the City's interests. She added ATN regularly works with the City's Planning, Public Works, and Community Development Departments along with other City staff. She confirmed the City has a say on the board. Council Member Valencia noted several of the Board Members have received public funds from their employers. He agreed with Council Member Moreno that they may be putting the cart before the horse by approving the Agreement before the ATN Board has done so and seconded the motion. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to continue the item until the completion of the investigation so the public can be assured any campaign donations are not influencing a decision, seconded by Council Member Valencia. DISCUSSION: In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiries, Mr. Ramirez confirmed the Agreement must be approved by all three parties before the property sale can close by December 31, 2022. He confirmed that if the Agreement is not completed by the end of the year, the Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) would expire, and the property becomes subject to the Surplus Land Act. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 17 of 30 Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil stated that if the project is to move forward it is incumbent upon the Council to approve it and not postpone a decision. Council Member Moreno expressed his appreciation for Ms. Kotler clarifying that ATN itself cannot donate directly to campaigns because it is a non-profit. He added that the Chamber of Commerce is also a non-profit, but its Board Members are in the middle of the corruption scandal. He noted ATN Chairman of the Board Paul Sanford of Wincome Hospitality has given thousands of dollars to political campaigns in Anaheim and added ATN hired Jeff Flint as a lobbyist, noting Mr. Flint is at the center of the FBI's investigation. He added ATN Board Vice Chair Fred Brown of Desert Palm Hotel and Suites has also made large campaign donations in Anaheim. He added Greenlaw also uses Mr. Flint as a lobbyist. Council Member Moreno noted the City does have one vote on the Board and expressed hope that it can be added to the investigative process of how the City itself is part of different civic institutions to help exonerate those not participating in the corruption. He stated this should be a sufficient level of red flags. He stated there is reason to get the work completed but expressed concerns over the integrity of the process. He stated the investigation should be the priority. He added Angels Baseball LP is also represented on the ATN Board. Council Member Diaz stated whether the Board or City Council approves the Agreement first is like the proverbial question of whether the chicken or the egg came first because they will both have to eventually approve it. He stated anyone in America can be accused but they are not condemned without proof and there is not yet proof of the corruption. He stated he has never been approached by anyone looking to do dirty business, including the representatives of ATN. MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to approve Item No. 23 as presented. DISCUSSION: In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiry, Council Member Moreno clarified his motion is to postpone until the investigation is completed. In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiry, City Attorney Robert Fabela confirmed the motion would postpone the item indefinitely because the report's completion date is not yet known. Council Member Moreno noted people are put in jail before having their cases heard in court in America. He clarified his suggestion is that City Council pause the item, noting he is not charging anyone with anything but merely taking heed of the fact they are implicated prompting an investigation. He stated it is a big deal for the integrity of the City. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Fabela clarified the timing for the item to come back to City Council has been stated clearly but noted the City only has two rules for a postponement — to a date certain or indefinitely. He added the staff direction has been given to bring it back after the investigation is completed. He noted the delay would put a wrench in the deal. Council Member Moreno stated it is not the City Council putting a wrench in the deal but rather the bad actors. He clarified that he is not trying to blow up the deal but rather looking for assurance. He clarified his direction would be to allow staff to agendize it following the investigation if the parties involved are exonerated. Council Member Valencia clarified his previous comments by stating if the City has a staff member on the ATN Board, they should be allowed to first vote for it on their Board and then have the City City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 18 of 30 Council ratify the Agreement. He stated this way City Council is not telling its staffer what to do. He added this is a good point of governance. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to continue the item until the conclusion of the independent investigation and audit regarding campaign contributions and City contracts and results of the final report, seconded by Council Member Valencia. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 2 (Council Members Moreno and Valencia); NOES — 4 (Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, and Faessel). Motion failed. DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Diaz's inquiry, Mr. Ramirez confirmed that if the ATN Board does not approve the Agreement the deal dies. MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to approve a First Amendment to Right of Entry and License Agreement, in substantial form, with Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) to address the relocation of ATN's operations for property located at 1234 and 1280 South Anaheim Boulevard and 200 East Ball Road; and authorize the Economic Development Director to execute the First Amendment to Right of Entry and License Agreement and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the amended agreement (with Relocation Plan as an exhibit to First Amendment), seconded by Council Member Ma'ae. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 4 (Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, and Faessel); NOES — 2 (Council Members Moreno and Valencia). Motion carried. Council Member Moreno noted Item No. 31 is related to this item and requested it be heard before Item No. 28. At 8:10 P.M., Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil considered the agenda out of order and heard Item No. 31 prior to Item No. 28. C280 31. ORDINANCE NO 6545 (ADOPTION) AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY M142 OF ANAHEIM amending the Zoning Map referred to in Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to Zoning (DEV2021-00123) (1200-1320 South Anaheim Boulevard, 200 East Ball Road, and 1207 South Claudina Street) [Reclassification to establish the Mixed -Use (MU) Overlay Zone on the property; introduced at the City Council meeting of November 1, 2022, Public Hearing Item No. 16]. Determine that the proposed Reclassification (DEV2021-00123) was adequately analyzed pursuant to the Mitigated Negative Declaration approved in conjunction with the project. DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Planning and Building Director Ted White confirmed this item is the second reading of the ordinance to reclassify the property and allow for the proposed development. Council Member Moreno stated he has the same concerns as in Item No. 23 over Greenlaw, as it is part of what a lot of the allegations surround. He clarified that he is not making any accusation of guilt against Greenlaw but rather asking for City Council's consideration in regards to the $750,000 investigation. He stated that Greenlaw has been involved in campaign fundraising and contracted Mr. Flint for lobbying. He noted the property is owned by the City, making it within their right to decide how it is used. Council Member Moreno reported on November 10, 2020, the day of the City Council meeting to approve an extension of Greenlaw's EDA, $25,000 was deposited by Greenlaw into the Chamber of Commerce's PAC. He added that the FBI alleges Mr. Flint and former Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Todd Ament used pay -to -play politics to get projects approved. He added he was unaware of the timing of this transaction at the last meeting, and he was unsure if it was a shakedown City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 19 of 30 or not, but regardless Greenlaw participated per the FBI's allegations. He stated the timing of the transaction is too close for comfort, which is exactly why they are doing the investigation. Council Member Moreno clarified that he is not asking his colleagues to vote against the item but rather to postpone the vote until all parties involved are exonerated by the investigation. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to continue Item No. 31 until the investigation is completed with all parties exonerated at which point staff can agendize the project for City Council consideration, seconded by Council Member Valencia. DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil stated this is very similar to the previous item with the same reasons to either support or not support the motion. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to continue the item until the conclusion of the independent investigation and audit regarding campaign contributions and City contracts and the results of the final report, seconded by Council Member Valencia. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 2 (Council Members Moreno and Valencia); NOES — 4 (Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, and Faessel). Motion failed. MOTION: Council Member Ma'ae moved to adopt ORDINANCE NO 6545 AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Zoning Map referred to in Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to Zoning (DEV2021-00123) (1200-1320 South Anaheim Boulevard, 200 East Ball Road, and 1207 South Claudina Street) and determine that the proposed Reclassification (DEV2021-00123) was adequately analyzed pursuant to the Mitigated Negative Declaration approved in conjunction with the project, seconded by Council Member Diaz. DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, City Attorney Robert Fabela stated, similar to the Angel Stadium sale, the transaction could be voided if there are findings of people who voted to approve the item also found to be benefitting financially from the deal through a quid pro quo situation. He clarified that if the deal is voided, any money spent by the contractor in the interim is spent at the contractor's risk. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. White stated he would have to discuss the next steps with Mr. Fabela if the deal is voided after work had begun but added staff would stop all processing. Council Member Moreno requested City Council direct staff to not spend any of the proceeds from the sale until the investigation report is published and the parties in the project are exonerated. He noted former Mayor Sidhu wanted to start spending the Angel Stadium sale's escrow funds and City Council urged him to pull back on the idea over uncertainty surrounding the deal. He encouraged staff to hold any revenues from the sale in the event it needs to be returned to the developer. Council Member Diaz agreed the deal should be nullified if the allegations prove true and pledged to be the first to make such a request. He added saying no to the deal today would kill it. MOTION: Council Member Ma'ae moved to adopt ORDINANCE NO 6545 AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Zoning Map referred to in Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to Zoning (DEV2021-00123) (1200-1320 South Anaheim Boulevard, 200 East Ball Road, and 1207 South Claudina Street) and determine that the proposed Reclassification (DEV2021-00123) was adequately analyzed pursuant to the Mitigated Negative Declaration approved in conjunction with the project, seconded by Council Member Diaz. ROLL CALL City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 20 of 30 VOTE: AYES — 4 (Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, and Faessel); NOES — 2 (Council Members Moreno and Valencia). Motion carried; ordinance adopted. D154.4 28. RESOLUTION NO 2022-135 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting a Memorandum of Understanding establishing terms and conditions of employment for employees represented by the Anaheim Firefighters Association, Local No. 2899; and superseding Resolution Nos. 2019-076, 2020-107 and 2020-108 (effective June 24, 2022 through June 19, 2025). Amend the Fire & Rescue Department's Fiscal Year 2022/23 budget by $3,578,000. Human Resources Director Linda Andal reported the item is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for terms and conditions of employment for classifications in the Anaheim Firefighters Association (AFA). She added staff is also recommending an amendment to the budget of about $3,500,000. She reported the AFA represents 209 employees and provided the major provisions of the MOU including a 3.5% annual wage increase effective June 24, 2022, and a one-time lump sum non - pensionable payment of $5,000. She added the cost of the three-year contract is approximately $16,000,000 with $3,500,000 due in the current Fiscal Year. DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Anaheim Fire & Rescue (AF&R) Chief Patrick Russell confirmed the new contract would increase staffing by five a day. Council Member Moreno noted the above -average AF&R and Anaheim Police Department (APD) presence at Disneyland is in part because Disney pays for four (4) AF&R firefighters daily. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Fire Chief Russell confirmed Disney also pays for the extra APD officers assigned to the Resort. He confirmed the AF&R coverage zone is the entire Resort area and not merely Disneyland itself. He stated he thinks this is the same for APD officers but could not confirm it. He confirmed the agreement with Disney is contractual where AF&R provides two (2) paramedic units. He confirmed the Disney contract is usually for a five-year term with the current contract up for renewal next year. He reported Disney reimburses AF&R for 14 hours a day out of a 24-hour shift and the AF&R also bills Disney if personnel have to return to the park during the other 10 hours. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Fire Chief Russell theorized if the contract with Disney was not renewed, he would have to discuss what to do about the four AF&R staffers with Ms. Andal and the City Manager. He added the contract has a two-way 90-day notification clause if it were to be canceled. He stated he expects Disney to continue with the contract as the dedicated paramedic service is top-notch. He stated he could not predict the future of the contract, but of the 20-plus years of the contract's history, there has never been any indication of wanting to go in a different direction. Council Member Moreno stated the basis for his last question is Disney reneging on a promise to give sixth graders passes to the park for 10 years for performing community service five years into the program. Fire Chief Russell clarified AF&R would still have a responsibility to provide Emergency Medical Services and fire coverage to Disneyland even without the Disney -dedicated staff but noted it would fall back to their 911 units. He reported Disney has stated several times they do not wish to impact the City's 911 resources. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 21 of 30 Council Member Moreno expressed his hope that the contractual arrangement will continue. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Fire Chief Russell stated it costs the City about $250,000 for each firefighter, including salary and benefits, and confirmed they are paid through the General Fund. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Ms. Andal clarified the previous contract was over five years but only the final three years had compounded wages. She added this contract has higher wage and burden expense, making it costlier even with a shorter three-year duration. She added the new contract includes changes to specialty pay. She confirmed the wage increase is higher with this contract than with the previous contract. She clarified the last contract was approved in 2019 but the AFA had gone without a contract for two years so City Council authorized a lump sum payment of 4% for the first two fiscal years which did not compound and was not pensionable. She added the last three years of the previous contract only had a 6.5% raise instead of the current 10.5%. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Fire Chief Russell confirmed it is around 88-90% of every salary dollar for public safety employees goes to benefits and pension. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Ms. Andal confirmed part of why the current contract is so much higher is the compounding wages. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Ms. Andal clarified the AFA contract expired in June and the City Council has authorized retroactive wages from the date the contract expired. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Ms. Andal stated the one-time lump sum non - pensionable payment of $5,000 in the new contract is a term of the negotiation. She added it helps offset longer -term costs by not going into compounding wages and saving the City money in the future. She emphasized how the $5,000 payments are non -pensionable, reduce the cost to the General Fund, and were a term of the negotiations. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, City Manager Jim Vanderpool confirmed Ms. Andal's assessment of the $5,000 as a term of negotiation. He added retroactivity and lump sum payments are very common which leads to staff's comfort level with the recommendation. He noted it does not compound. He clarified it is a lump sum payment and not a bonus because of how a bonus is classified by the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CaIPERS). He confirmed $5,000 is a negotiated amount both parties agreed to. He stated it is not uncommon for these sorts of payments to be used with the City's employee associations and added it is an effective way to control long-term costs. Council Member Moreno stated he heard different language when the contract was discussed in Closed Session. Mr. Fabela cautioned Council Member Moreno to be careful when discussing the language used in Closed Session. Council Member Moreno lamented the spirit of how this deal was ratified and expressed hope that all other employee groups are considered in the same way around a lump sum payment that is not tied to controlling the salary wage increases. He stated this is a change from the City's normal procedures because the annual wage increases are also quite fair. He noted the staff report uses the word "bonus" after Mr. Vanderpool stated the semantics matter. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 22 of 30 Mr. Vanderpool stated he just spoke to the City Attorney and the language discussed in Closed Session alluded to earlier by Council Member Moreno was rejected by the negotiators. Council Member Moreno encouraged his colleagues if they approve the contract to also exercise the same level of generosity to all employee groups. He stated his intent is not to argue whether or not the firefighters deserve it but rather to have it apply to all City staff for purposes of equity and fairness. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Ms. Andal confirmed the one-time payments would cost the City around $1,000,000. Council Member Moreno encouraged the other Council Members to approve $5,000 payments to all employee groups. Council Member Diaz noted inflation is impacting everyone so in three years the firefighters would be making relatively the same as they do today. He lauded the long hours and dangerous work performed by firefighters. He stated he and all residents want the best when they call 911 and this is why he supports the deal. Council Member Moreno stated response times in public safety are not where they would like to see them. He added this involves staffing and the larger the contracts the harder it is to hire more people without a new revenue stream. He added that a theoretical $80,000,000 in annual gate tax revenues would be useful to help expand services. He noted the City's budget office's warning about the current APD contract likely requiring reserves to fulfill. He stated the City is hitting a ceiling of what it can afford. He added the future City Council would need to look at where they could raise more revenues to fulfill this contract and reduce response times. He added many City employees put themselves at risk health -wise during the pandemic working at the Convention Center and elsewhere helping residents and one group should not be considered more important than another because the City is a sum of its parts. He expressed concerns about the budget becoming too unbalanced and preventing residents from enjoying a good quality of life. MOTION: Council Member Diaz moved to approve RESOLUTION NO 2022-135 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting a Memorandum of Understanding establishing terms and conditions of employment for employees represented by the Anaheim Firefighters Association, Local No. 2899; and superseding Resolution Nos. 2019-076, 2020- 107 and 2020-108 (effective June 24, 2022 through June 19, 2025), seconded by Council Member Valencia. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES — 0. Motion carried. D112 34. Receive information regarding the Mickey and Friends Parking Structure and whether the change of title from the City to the Disney company following the bonds being paid off could be considered a gift of public funds (informational item). City Attorney Robert Fabela reported this discussion was agendized at the October 25, 2022 meeting at the request of Council Member Moreno. He stated in 1996 the City and Disney entered into a contract for Resort area improvements, including the issuance of Lease Revenue Bonds in 1997 to finance the improvements. He reported as part of the transaction, the City is obligated to revert possession of the Mickey and Friends Parking Structure to Disney upon their repayment. Mr. Fabela, citing case law, stated it would be difficult to make a strong legal argument that reverting possession of the garage to Disney amounts to a gift of public funds because the deal provided a City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 23 of 30 large number of public benefits as documented in 1996 including job creation and driving tourism in the City. He stated reverting possession of the garage would not be legally considered a gift of public funds. DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno stated he has often heard from concerned residents that this would be a gift of public funds. He noted there are many facilities the City leases to non -profits for $1 a year with the City retaining ownership, citing the Boys & Girls Club's facility and the lease of Ross Park to the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). He reported that he has been told by staff that giving the facility to the Boys & Girls Club, or other similar properties, would be a gift of public funds. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Fabela confirmed that the garage is a publicly owned structure. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Convention, Sports, and Entertainment Executive Director Tom Morton noted he was not with the City in 1996 but added the garage has been publicly owned throughout his tenure beginning in 2009. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Fabela confirmed the garage is currently owned by the City. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Convention, Sports, and Entertainment Deputy Director Mindy Abel confirmed the City leases the garage to Disney for $1 a year until the bonds are repaid. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Mr. Morton clarified the City has overflow opportunities to use the garage for Convention Center events, adding up to 1,000 parking spaces subject to 48 blackout dates. He added this revenue comes back to the City if the Convention Center has an overflowing event. He confirmed this revenue total is audited every three years. He stated thus far in 2022, the Convention Center has overflowed approximately 3,800 cars generating approximately $57,000 in revenue. He confirmed this money goes to the Convention Center's Enterprise Fund. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Fabela clarified the garage is part of a much larger deal that led to Convention Center expansion, public improvements, and other things besides simply the garage. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Fabela stated the law clarifies that this is not a gift of public funds. He stated there is a reasonable basis to state the public has benefitted from the structure over the years. He added it is a challenge to relate to 1996 and public purposes identified at the time of the transaction. He stated there would not be a credible argument against the garage providing a public benefit since 1996. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Fabela stated lawyers do not like offering opinions on hypothetical situations like the one presented by Council Member Moreno of a Trader Joe's taking over a City -owned building. He noted his staff report cited 2001's Preston v. State Board of Equalization which states legislative bodies do not violate gift of public funds restrictions by issuing bonds to fund a private development replacing clear blight with residential or commercial buildings. He noted it has long been established that economic development is a public purpose. He added if the legislature finds it is economic development, the court will defer to the finding. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 24 of 30 Council Member Moreno acknowledged under the guise of public or economic benefit, a municipality can turn over public buildings and lands. He stated it is worrisome and seems like a loophole. He encouraged Council Member Valencia to look into this in his new State Assembly role. He thanked Mr. Fabela for providing this understanding to himself and the public. Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil noted the incremental tax revenues the deal created paid for the bonds. He added the City would not have had these funds without making the initial investment. In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiries, Mr. Fabela stated there have been cases in this area of law since 1996 but none of them have changed the general basis of the law. He noted he could not speak to the way the matter was handled legally in 1996 but added what they have seen over time is more examples from the courts of how to assess what is a gift of public funds. He could not confirm if the City Council would have considered in 1996 if this was a gift of public funds when drafting the agreement but added the precedents are long-established and expressed confidence former City Attorney Jack White would have covered this issue. In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiry, Mr. Fabela confirmed there is a three-year statute of limitations for challenges. In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiries, Mr. Fabela stated the land may likely have been owned by Disney in 1996 and the City did not own title to the land. Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil referred to the 1996 documentation to state it was Disney's land and the City was entering into a ground lease. He added ground leases are common and often are held for long terms. In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiries, Mr. Fabela stated ownership of the building at the end of a ground lease depends on the deal. He confirmed in this case it would be Disney's property and the City's building with the City reverting the building's title to Disney. He stated the building is in the possession of the City requiring the reversion requirement. Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil stated the structure of the agreement is typical of how ground leases typically work when they expire. In response to Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil's inquiry, Mr. Fabela could not confirm what the ending terms of the ground lease are in the agreement. Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil noted the garage itself is just one component of a larger deal bringing huge benefits to the City. Council Member Moreno agreed the deal brought huge benefits to the City. He questioned why the City is giving up a building that could provide so much revenue. He expressed appreciation for Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil educating the public about the ground lease question. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Fabela agreed it is fair to say this ground lease scenario is similar to a mobile home park. Mr. Fabela reported he did get confirmation the term of the ground lease is tied to the maturity of the bonds. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 25 of 30 Council Member Moreno noted the bond was issued for public infrastructure which also helped Disney build profits along with the City. He stated it is unfortunate that the City will not create revenues from the garage. Discussion item. No action taken. D124 35. Direct staff, in anticipation of potential litigation, to issue a Request for Proposal for a full property condition assessment report of Angel Stadium in accordance with the 1996 Lease obligation for it to be maintained at a level at least equal to first class professional baseball stadiums. Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil reported in the previous meeting's Closed Session the City Council discussed potential litigation relative to the issue of the condition of Angel Stadium. He requested City Attorney Robert Fabela be mindful as the item is discussed in public that comments remain under the Brown Act regarding Closed Session discussions and staff directions. Mr. Fabela reminded City Council not to discuss in public what was discussed relative to the potential litigation. Convention, Sports, and Entertainment Executive Director Tom Morton reported the item was agendized by Council Member Moreno at the last meeting to discuss issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to assess the maintenance and upkeep of Angel Stadium under the 1996 Lease obligation for it to be maintained at a level at least equal to first-class professional baseball stadiums. DISCUSSION: Council Member Moreno stated the goal is to ensure the City is doing its due diligence as a good landlord. He reported staff's recollection at the last meeting is there has never been a full assessment of the stadium despite the Los Angeles Angels' requirement obligations in the lease. He noted the Angels have not documented their stated need of $130,000,0004150,000,000 to maintain the facility at a first-class level. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiries, Mr. Morton clarified in 2013 there was an intent to have a deliverable but the MOUs never went forward. He added the Angels contracted for their assessment but it never reached a final work product. He confirmed the City intended to pay for half of this analysis. He stated his recollection is the City did pay about $65,000 but did not receive a final work product. Council Member Moreno noted numbers were used in public discussions even though the City did not receive a final report. He stated whatever the cost would be it would be the obligation of the tenant. He stated his intent with this item is to direct staff to provide an RFP for a full property condition assessment and ensure the obligations of the lease are being met for the benefit of a future City Council to use as needed. MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to direct staff, in anticipation of potential litigation, to issue a Request for Proposal for a full property condition assessment report of Angel Stadium in accordance with the 1996 Lease obligation for it to be maintained at a level at least equal to first class professional baseball stadiums, seconded by Council Member Faessel. DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil noted the last two items, both the subject of much recent controversy, originated in 1996. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 26 of 30 MOTION: Council Member Moreno moved to direct staff, in anticipation of potential litigation, to issue a Request for Proposal for a full property condition assessment report of Angel Stadium in accordance with the 1996 Lease obligation for it to be maintained at a level at least equal to first class professional baseball stadiums, seconded by Council Member Faessel. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES — 0. Motion carried. B105 36. Nominate and designate a representative for the City Selection Committee meeting to be held on Thursday, December 1, 2022. City Selection Committee: DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVE: Council Member Jose Diaz NOMINATION: Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil nominated Council Member Diaz DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, City Clerk Theresa Bass stated the City Selection Committee is made up of mayors and representatives convened to make selections for certain County boards and commissions. She added the Committee will meet on December 1, 2022 to make appointments. Council Member Moreno expressed his support for the nomination, adding it is a very important position. NOMINATION: Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil nominated Council Member Diaz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES — 0. Nomination approved. PUBLIC HEARING: D125 37. Public hearing to establish the Commercial Facade Improvement Program (Program) and approve the guidelines for the Program. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-141 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM establishing a Commercial Facade Improvement Program (Program) and approving guidelines for the program; direct and authorize the Director of Economic Development, or designee, to execute all related documents, and to take such actions as necessary or advisable to implement and administer the Program on behalf of the City; and determining that the Program is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act. Economic Development Director Sergio Ramirez stated as part of the effort to revive business corridors the City Council approved a $500,000 allocation to the Economic Development budget for a Commercial Facade Improvement Program. He added it is aimed at providing one-time grants for the enhancement of business storefronts. Business Development Manager Shant Boodanian reported the financial assistance would include two types of grants — Grant A providing up to $10,000 for cosmetic improvements and Grant B providing up to $100,000 for structural improvements. He added businesses would be required to contribute at least 25% of the total improvement costs. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 27 of 30 Mr. Boodanian reported examples of Grant A improvements include landscaping, awnings, canopies, professional repair of external structures, exterior painting visible from a public right-of-way, and exterior lighting for appearance and/or safety. He reported that Grant B improvements include storefront restoration or renovation, exterior facade treatments, signage repair or replacement, and asphalt resurfacing, among others. He detailed the application process, including a final review by the City for the project. He stated staff recommends approval of the guidelines and directing staff to implement and administer the program. DISCUSSION: Council Member Valencia stated he supports the program but added he hopes the application window would be fair, noting several businesses on Beach Blvd. have already been alerted to its potential existence. He expressed his support for the revitalization of Beach Boulevard but requested preference not be given to any one region. Mr. Ramirez confirmed it is a citywide program. He acknowledged the program has been mentioned during Beach Blvd., Lincoln Ave., and Anaheim Blvd. outreach efforts among other areas. He stated businesses were informed that the program is in its infancy and the program details have not yet been presented to City Council. He reported staff is already receiving interest. He confirmed approval of the item would commence a citywide marketing effort. He expressed hope that the program will be very successful and that the funding level will be increased in future years. Council Member Diaz thanked staff for this important program for west Anaheim. He noted the City would share the cost, but the community would share the benefit because well -maintained shopping centers make a difference in a community. He stated it would lead to cleaner, safer, and more - walkable streets, providing several visual examples of local small businesses benefitting from modern -looking facade improvements. He expressed his support for the item. Mr. Ramirez added these sorts of rehabilitations create a spill -over effect where neighboring properties also aim to improve themselves. Council Member Diaz recalled the many broken windows of Downtown Anaheim in the 1970s compared to what is seen today. Council Member Ma'ae noted the upcoming Brookhurst corridor study in conjunction with this program would provide the potential for improvements along Brookhurst St. She echoed Council Member Valencia's comments about distributing the opportunities equally and called for consideration of how to best spread the funds around the City. She suggested potentially establishing percentages per district, her hope that the program would grow in the future, and expressed confidence staff would manage this well. Mr. Ramirez stated those comments are noted and added this would be considered as the program is implemented. Council Member Moreno noted this would be his last legislative act and he loved how this is the item. He reported how often he hears from small businesses and residents of certain neighborhoods feeling neglected. He thanked Public Works Director Rudy Emami, the Community Services Department, the Community Development Department, and the Housing Authority for getting grants for these underinvested areas, lamenting that not enough of the General Fund is used for neighborhoods. He thanked City Manager Jim Vanderpool for living up to what he envisioned when the Economic Development Department was created. He commended Mr. Ramirez for being the right person to lead the new department. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 28 of 30 Council Member Moreno agreed with his colleagues about certain spaces attracting negative influences and reducing property values, community pride, and safety. He echoed Council Member Ma'ae's comments in expressing hope that the program grows larger than $500,000 in the future because this is exactly what the City should be investing its resources into. He stated these small investments will bring big returns. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Ramirez stated staff would rely on existing lease agreements to ensure landlords do not start rent -gauging tenants who have paid to improve their property through these grants. He lamented that there may not be any provision the City could include in these private contracts to prevent rental rate modifications. He acknowledged that a landlord raising rents after facade improvements could happen and is a risk. He noted a corresponding increase in sales from the improvements could help cover a potentially higher rent. Council Member Moreno suggested looking into an equity -sharing model similar to one being done through the City's housing renovation program. In response to Council Member Moreno's inquiry, Mr. Ramirez expressed doubts that the City could legally impose a rent increase cap on an improved property. He added the program's guidelines would require the grant -funded improvements be maintained for five years and added this would transfer to a new property owner. He noted the City would receive some return on its investment through increased property taxes if it were sold and reassessed. Council Member Moreno also suggested potentially modeling the program after the federal government's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans during the pandemic and not having to repay the loan if rent levels are sustained below a certain threshold for five years. He added it would be tragic for a mom-and-pop store, due to increased rent, to be pushed out of a property it helped improve through its success. Council Member Moreno echoed Council Member Valencia's comments about the program applying citywide but noted some areas of the City are more blighted than others. He suggested having a separate category for areas such as Beach Blvd. identified as being more blighted while also maintaining a more general fund for areas needing help but less urgently. He encouraged future City Councils to increase the financial resources for this program and thanked staff for this small business - focused program. Council Member Faessel expressed his support for the item. He noted State College Blvd. needs attention as well. He thanked Mr. Vanderpool and the Economic Development staff for their help with District 5's small businesses. He added he has regularly heard Mr. Boodanian was instrumental in helping small businesses confused by the inner workings of the City's government get needed assistance on a variety of issues. He thanked Mr. Boodanian for his work acting as a sort of unofficial small business ombudsman. He agreed with Council Member Moreno that there is even more to be done with this program in the future. Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil opened the public hearing. City Clerk Theresa Bass reported no electronic comments were submitted related to Public Hearing Item No. 37. There being no in person speakers, Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil closed the public hearing. City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 29 of 30 MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2022-141 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM establishing a Commercial Fagade Improvement Program (Program) and approving guidelines for the program; direct and authorize the Director of Economic Development, or designee, to execute all related documents, and to take such actions as necessary or advisable to implement and administer the Program on behalf of the City; and determining that the Program is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, seconded by Council Member Ma'ae. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Pro Tern O'Neil and Council Members Diaz, Ma'ae, Moreno, Valencia, and Faessel); NOES — 0. Motion carried. REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: None PUBLIC COMMENTS (non -agenda items): None COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS: Council Member Valencia announced that tonight would be his last City Council meeting as the election results currently showed him being elected to the California Assembly. He highlighted the accomplishments of his District 4 office, including bringing the County's first vaccination Super POD to District 4, hiring more public safety officers, reducing emergency response times, approving a new park in District 4, helping secure $15,000,000 to enhance Boysen Park, increasing the number of affordable housing, specifically in District 4, supported both large and small businesses, and worked to ensure the Angels deal did not move forward. He thanked staff for their support and for serving the City's residents, he thanked his colleagues for their dialogue and interactions and hoped that their future decisions would keep the best interest of residents at the forefront, and thanked Anaheim residents for trusting him on the City Council as well as in future efforts. Council Member Faessel highlighted the approval of Agenda Item No. 21, the Store One Project at the former Northgate Gonzalez Market. He noted his participation in a tour of the Lenain Water Plant with Katella High School environmental class students. He recognized Reborn Cabinets for their Baths for the Brave program and providing two bathrooms, and the Rotary Club for a clean-up event in the Balsam/Curtis neighborhood. He reported his participation at a meeting with moms in the Edison area regarding neighborhood improvements, the Veterans Ceremony, and the Anaheim Health Fair where approximately 1,000 people received free services. He wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving. Council Member Moreno thanked Council Member Valencia for his work and hoped he would continue his efforts at the State level. He highlighted the Store One Project, thanking Housing and Community Development Director Grace Stepter for her efforts, and the Anaheim Health Fair, acknowledging former Mayor Sidhu's contributions to that event over the years. He congratulated his daughter, Liliana Moreno, for being named the Orange League Volleyball Defensive Player of the Year. He thanked all those who voted, congratulated all who won, acknowledged the efforts of all candidates, stated that there was a continued need for campaign reform, which he hoped would be approved by the new City Council, and thanked staff for their continued efforts. Council Member Ma'ae thanked Council Member Valencia for his work, perspective, and guidance, and looked forward to his work on the State level to continue serving Anaheim. COUNCIL AGENDA SETTING: None City Council Minutes of November 15, 2022 Page 30 of 30 ADJOURNMENT: At 10:04 P.M., with no further business to conduct, Mayor Pro Tem O'Neil adjourned the City Council in memory of Mary Jo Hesketh, Andrew Ersek, Jimmy Phong Khuu, and Nowella Kilikina Kaehu. Respectfully submitted, Y� T4esBass, CMC City Clerk Public Comment From: Mabel Salgado Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 9:10 AM To: Public Comment Subject: [EXTERNAL] Make investigation findings Public Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Good morning council members, I'm writing today to please ask you to have integrity and disclose all findings of the report. It is important that we find out what areas we need to work on moving forward. I have been a resident of Anaheim for 35 years and I like many others feel very disheartened with what has been alleged happened. The only way to move forward is with truth from this point forward !!!please disclose all the findings and find what we need to work on. Please let's show the world that we as a community care for honesty and our residents. Thank you Sent from my iPhone Public Comment From: Cynthia Peha < Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 1:23 PM To: Public Comment Subject: [EXTERNAL] City Council Meeting - Public Comments Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Good Afternoon, My name is Cynthia and I urge all city council to please vote YES on agenda item 3. Government transparency is absolutely necessary. As public servants for the city of Anaheim, the city council has an obligation to serve the residents of Anaheim. Please remember this on your vote to make the Angel Stadium internal investigation public. Thank you. Cynthia Pefta Long time Resident of Anaheim I'le"'Ise C01-isider the et-1virot-irrIet-it before Prtnti1-1(.y- this frIcss".1ge CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message, including attachments, contains information that is considered confidential. The information is intended solely for the use of the addressee(s). If you are not an addressee, your disclosure, copying, distribution or use of the contents of this message is prohibited. If this message has been sent to you in error, please notifil the sender by return e-mail and then delete this entire message. Thank you. 1 Public Comment From: Stephanie Krysta) Palomares Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 2:25 PM To: Public Comment Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda Item #3 Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. ®o not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Hello city council members, I urge you all to vote to make the investigation report public. The city needs to heal and move forward from the Angel Stadium scandal. Any city workers who contributed to these deals should be made public in order to protect the integrity of the city and its council. Please do the right thing and vote to publicize the results. A vote against making the results of the investigation public will appear as an announcement of your involvement in the scandal. Respectfully, Stephanie P. Jennifer L. Hall From: Johanna Perez Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 5:38 PM To: Public Comment Subject: [EXTERNAL] Public Commenya Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Anaheim city council needs to be transparent and make the findings of the council -commissioned internal investigation accesible to the public. ITEM 43 MUST BE PASSED! -- Best, Johanna Perez Herrera I-A'.I.A. (.'Iass Of 2022 Scierice, B.S.(.1-ticario/a. ar�,d. (..eritral A.t.nericari, Stu.clies, B.A. Public Comment From: natalie rubalcava Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 3:23 PM To: Stephen Faessel; Avelino Valencia; Jennifer Diaz; Gloria S. Ma'ae; Trevor O'Neil; Jose Moreno; Public Comment Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Agenda Item 28 Attachments: Support for Anaheim Firefighters MOU_11-15.docx Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. 11/15/2022 RE: SUPPORT ITEM 428 Anaheim Firefighters Association MOU Dear Mayor ProTem O'Neil and Members of the Anaheim City Council: I am writing this letter in support of agenda item #28, the recommended adoption of a memorandum of understanding between the City of Anaheim and the Anaheim Firefighters Association. As a lifelong resident of Anaheim, I value the role and impact our firefighters have on our daily lives. Our firefighters have also been instrumental in fighting wild fires across the state. As the largest city in the County of Orange, now more than ever it is important that we compensate our firefighters competitively as many fire agencies face recruiting and workforce challenges in this current labor market. It is important that we keep Anaheim competitive compared to our neighboring cities. Especially in a city of over 300K residents that more than doubles in size daily. I support the proposed MOU and honor the work being done by our Anaheim Firefighters on behalf of the residents and visitors of Anaheim. Respectfully, Natalie Rubalcava Anaheim, CA 92805 11/15/2022 RE: SUPPORT ITEM 428 Anaheim Firefighters Association MOU Dear Mayor ProTem O'Neil and Members of the Anaheim City Council: I am writing this letter in support of agenda item 428, the recommended adoption of a memorandum of understanding between the City of Anaheim and the Anaheim Firefighters Association. As a lifelong resident of Anaheim, I value the role and impact our firefighters have on our daily lives. Our firefighters have also been instrumental in fighting wild fires across the state. As the largest city in the County of Orange, now more than ever it is important that we compensate our firefighters competitively as many fire agencies face recruiting and workforce challenges in this current labor market. It is important that we keep Anaheim competitive compared to our neighboring cities. Especially in a city of over 300K residents that more than doubles in size daily. I support the proposed MOU and honor the work being done by our Anaheim Firefighters on behalf of the residents and visitors of Anaheim. Respectfully, Natalie Rubalcava Anaheim, CA 92805 Public Comment From: Mariaisabelle Garcia <mariaisabelleg@ken nedycommission.org> Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 3:08 PM To: Cesar C; Daisy Cruz; Rudibel Barbosa; Public Comment; PublicLands@hcd.ca.gov Cc: Paul.McDougall@hcd.ca.gov; Megan.kirkeby@hcd.ca.gov Subject: [EXTERNAL] Kennedy Commission public comment 11/15/22 Attachments: The Kennedy Commission Letter_ Item 31 Anaheim City Council agenda 11_15_ 22.docx Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Please see the attached public comment from The Kennedy Commission below. Thank you, Blessings, Marialsabelle Garcia Kennedy Commission Community Organizer mariaisabelleg@kennedycommission.org November 15, 2022 Mayor Pro Tem Trevor O'Neil Councilmembers Housing Authority City of Anaheim 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. Anaheim, CA 92805 RE: Item 31- ORDINANCE NO. 6445(ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Zoning Map referred to in Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code relating to Zoning (DEV2021-00123) (1200-1320 South Anaheim Boulevard, 200 East Ball Road, and 1207 South Claudina Street) [Reclassification to establish the Mixed -Use (MU) Overlay Zone on the property; introduced at the City Council meeting of November 1, 2022, Public Hearing Item No. 16]. Dear Mayor Pro Tem Trevor O'Neil and City Council Members: The Kennedy Commission (the Commission) is a broad -based coalition of residents and community organizations that advocates for the production of homes affordable for families earning less than $20,000 annually in Orange County. Formed in 2001, the Commission has been successful in partnering and working with Orange County jurisdictions to create effective housing and land -use policies that has led to the new construction of homes affordable to lower income working families. As the City Council considers both the adoption of an ordinance approving a reclassification to establish the Mixed -Use (MU) Overlay zone and the determination that the proposed reclassification (DEV2021-00123) was adequately analyzed pursuant to the approved Mitigated Negative Declaration for the proposed development at the southeast corner of Anaheim Boulevard and Ball Road, The Kennedy Commission continues to urge the Council to not approve an agreement until the City of Anaheim and Greenlaw Development commit to maximizing affordable housing production on this city -owned land. The City needs to prioritize developments that are 100% affordable for lower -income families on this city -owned site to maximize and leverage additional federal and state housing funds, especially land acquired by the Housing Authority or the city using lower -income housing funds. At a minimum, 15%-20% of the units should be affordable to low, very low, and extremely low- income families. We stated our opposition in the letters submitted for the first reading of the project on October 27, 2020, the second reading on November 10, 2020, the amendment to the Exclusive Negotiation agreement on December 7, 2021, and the initial study/mitigated negative declaration mitigation monitoring plan on November 1, 2022. Mayor Pro Tem Trevor O'Neil and City Council Members November 1, 2022 As highlighted in the City of Anaheim's latest Housing Element Annual Progress Report that was submitted to the California Housing and Community Development department', the city has a deficit of affordable housing production. The report points out that the city has approved and permitted over 8,719 housing units during the current Housing Element period and only 369 have been in the affordability level of low and very low income. The remaining RHNA for lower -income households is 1,794. The vast majority of the housing units, 8,350, have been approved at moderate and above moderate -income levels (RHNA in above moderate has been exceeded by over 300%). Given the City's track -record of prioritizing moderate and above -moderate housing on Housing Opportunity Sites, which were 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-income levels, the City will have a very difficult time meeting its current and upcoming RHNA allocation. It is imperative that city -owned land is prioritized to develop lower - income housing that is not being addressed by market rate development. In disposing of city -owned land, the city should prioritize the creation of affordable housing for low, very low, and extremely low families in compliance with the Surplus Land Act and successor agency obligations. When disposing of publicly owned land, public agencies have an obligation to comply with the Surplus Land Act or exemptions to the act. Herein the city is not complying with the Surplus Land Act or its exemptions, wherein they are not providing a minimum of 20% of units at low, very low, and extremely low-income levels. The Commission looks forward to further conversations regarding the use of city -owned land to increase affordable housing opportunities for lower -income families in Anaheim. Please keep us informed of any updates and meetings regarding strategies to increase affordable homes for lower -income households in the city. If you have any questions, please free to contact us at (949) 250-0909 or cesarc@kennedycommission.org. Sincerely, �µ Cesar Covarrubias Executive Director cc: Ms. Megan Kirkeby, Acting Deputy Director, Housing Policy Development, CA HCD Mr. Paul McDougall, Housing Manager, CA HCD PublicLands@hcd.ca.gov i City of Anaheim, Housing Element Annual Progress Report, June 2022 Page 2 of 2 Public Comment From: leticia Sent: Thursday, November 3, 2022 11:45 PM To: Public Comment Subject: [EXTERNAL] Living conditions Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. I've been living in district #5 for 5 yrs now. I have sent emails regarding bad living conditions in what our neighborhood. Like alleys full of cars parked blocking garages, making it hard for people that park their cars in the garages. Also the trash is horrible the bins are full every 2-3 days. There are 2-5 families living in 1-3 bedroom apartments. There is no control from the apartment's owners or the city. Making kids go on the streets to do drugs, and do bad things because they have no privacy in their own home. Also the parking is horrible people on E. Park In park their cars in the middle of the streets the police officers drive by there and see that and they don't care. People park their cars in red spots, in alleys because almost all people use their garage to put stuff there but not to park their cars. Furniture against the alley walls that stays there for weeks. I will keep on writing these emails until someone pays attention how people lives in district #5. Park In, terrace st,lawrance, fashion e.t.c. I think is time for a change we don't want any more gangs, graffiti, kids doing drugs, the Miraloma park full of kids without an adult watching them everyday until 9pm. There is no control. I live in on with my 2 boys and my husband only. We work to keep it like that and for my kids to have their own privacy but not every parent thinks the same way. Thanks here is some pictures. Sent from my iPhone - 77 REB11-10 M�+.7w'fer# ppppr" 11 Public Comment From: Brette Miller Sent: Friday, November 4, 2022 8:21 PM To: AhmadZ@cityoffullerton.com; Andi.Bernard@occr.ocgov.com; Andrew.Do@ocgov.com; CFikes@surfcity-hb.org; City.Council@surfcity-hb.org; CouncilMembers@cityoffullerton.com; Cymantha.Atkinson@occr.ocgov.com; Dan.Kalmick@surfcity-hb.org; Donald.Wagner@ocgov.com; Dylan.Wright@occr.ocgov.com; Glenn.Grandis@fountainvalley.org; Jtaylor@sanjuancapistrano.org; Karen Romero Estrada; Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com; Kim, Frank (HOA); Kim.Carr@surfcity-hb.org; Lisa. Bartlett@ocgov.com; Michael.Vo@fountainvalley.org; Natalie.Moser@surfcity-hb.org; Rhonda.Bolton@surfcity-hb.org; Rick.Miller@fountainvalley.org; Sandie.Frakes@surfcity-hb.org; Sergio.Prince@ocgov.com; Ted.Bui@fountainvalley.org; YasieGoebel@ocgov.com; ahertz-mallari@cypressca.org; Avelino Valencia; barbara.delgleize@surfcity-hb.org; bwwhitaker ceciliah@ci.brea.ca.us; christinem@ci.brea.ca.us; council@lakeforestca.gov; Cameron Wessel; dcirbo@lakeforestca.gov; dreeve@sanjuancapistrano.org; erik.peterson@surfcity-hb.org; fmarquez@cypressca.org; fredjung@cityoffullerton.com; glen np@ci.brea.ca.us; Gloria S. Ma'ae; hhart@sanjuancapistrano.org; im.constantine@fountainvalley.org; jessica.witt@ocgov.com; jesuss@cityoffullerton.com; Jose Moreno; Jose Diaz; jpeat@cypressca.org; lilly.simmering@ocgov.com; martys@ci.brea.ca.us; mike.posey@surfcity-hb.org; mtettemer@lakeforestca.gov; Nam Bartash; nicholas.dunlap@cityoffullerton.com; nmoatazedi@lakeforestca.gov; pmorales@cypressca.org; Public Comment; response@ocgov.com; rpequeno@lakeforestca.gov; Sara Catalan; Stephen Faessel; sfarias@sanjuancapistrano.org; sminikus@cypressca.org; stevenv@ci.brea.ca.us; svoigts@lakeforestca.gov; tbourne@sanjuancapistrano.org; Trevor O'Neil; vasila.ahmad@ocgov.com; Valeria Sandoval Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Help.... PLEASE!!! Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. ---------- Forwarded message From: Brette Miller Date: Fri, Nov 4, 2022 at 9:42 PM Subject: Re: Help.... PLEASE!!! To: Bernard, Andi <Andi.Bernard@occr.ocgov.com> CC: <AI.Jabbar@ocgov.com>, <Andrea.Dima@ocgov.com>, Atkinson, Cymantha (OCCR) <Cymantha.Atkinson@occr.ocgov.com>, Bartlett, Lisa <Lisa.Bartlett@ocgov.com>, Chaffee, Doug <Doug.Chaffee@ocgov.com>, <Chris.Wangsaporn @ocgov.com>, Do, Andrew <Andrew.Do@ocgov.com>, Foley, Katrina <Katrina.Folev@ocgov.com>, <Fourth.District@ocgov.com>, <Jannelle.Welker@ocgov.com>, <Jessica.Guerrero@ocgov.com>, Kim, Frank (HOA) <Frank.Kim @ocgov.com>, <LaShe.Rod riguez@ocgov.com>, <Paulette.Chaffee@ocgov.com>, Schmidt, Monica<Monica.Schmidt@occr.ocgov.com>, <TimWhitacre@ocgov.com>, Wagner, Donald <Donald.Wagner@ocgov.com>, Wright, Dylan <Dylan.Wright@occr.ocgov.com>, <itzel.parra@ocgov.com>, <jack.du2@ocgov.com>, <jeff.hentzen@ocgov.com> Hi Andi, You say that the shelter is open, but it is NOT open for the public and rescues to adopt & rescue AT WILL during business hours. This is the problem that it seems you are missing, or choosing to ignore. Being open for license renewals, redemption & intake does not address the problem with adoptions and rescues being turned away because they need an appointment. I explained this in my email to you. I'll try it again though, and write very slowly so maybe you can comprehend. Making an appointment in one of your time slots works for your shelter staff, but not for many of the visitors. Many show up excited to meet animals and/or rescue them and, due to the inconvenience of not being able to do so at that time that is convenient for THEM, and especially when they took out of THEIR busy schedules to come there, they do not come back. Say someone comes in at 10am. They have to be somewhere are 12. They now get told they have to wait for the next appointment say at 11:30am. So, they're supposed to sit there for 1.5 hours to adopt an animal? Come on. As I mentioned too, rescues are currently skipping your shelter to rescue from, as your process isn't working for them. Have you done rescue? If you have, you would know that some of them rescue multiple dogs and cats in one day from all over, and each pull from the shelter or travel time in between shelter may take different lengths of time based on the shelter processes and traffic, so they can't make an appointment when coming in for a specific slot. For an adopter.... here is one simple scenario of many circumstances .... Say there is a divorced dad bringing his child in to meet an animal, and we'll say that dad is on a time crunch because of parental visiting time, and so they can't wait for an appointment as they have to bring their child back to their mom's home. He is therefore denied that day he shows up to adopt a dog for his family. Your appointment process is ridiculously inconvenient, and may work for you, but not most people. It does NOT save visitors to your shelter's time! What you call a "concierge service" is laughable, as it is NOT what your stupid "Fact Checker" PDF makes it out to be. You say you model this program based on nearby successful shelter, such as in LA .... Are u kidding me? That's hilarious, but sad as heck too. They euthanize left and right. Their shelters are the ghetto there. It doesn't decrease the stress of animals by not having people walking around giving them love. It doesn't reduce bite rates, or fist fights between adopters. The physical fight part is just ridiculous! How can you be so exaggerating to act like that happens so often? I can't believe you include that on your FACT sheet. Come on ... That's just nonsense! It doesn't help to have your staff push a dog on an adopter. People should have the right to meet dogs and feel their energy. Dogs and cats have souls, and they bond with certain people too. They're not a car you can push on someone based on their features. They also enjoy getting love from people walking through, even if they don't get picked. Think about the animals ... not what makes it easiest for you. The return rate stats are nonsense. There have been less people visiting your shelter, and more animals getting killed, so of course your return rates are less. Get your facts straight. Have you ever talked to the volunteers and rescuers there? Like without being a pompous jerk to them, and actually letting them speak their feelings about the appointment only adoption process? Have you actually LISTENED AND CARED about what they are telling you? From all that I read and discuss with them, they are so heartbroken by how you respond to them. Why only let an adopter visit one pet per appointment too (which is the situation in most cases)? Why not let them meet numerous pets, and let THEM decide which one they want to adopt? Do you not think they are capable of making an informed decision? I would be completely turned off if someone controlled the whole process of bringing an animal buddy into my home, and YES, I have adopted from the shelter prior to your "appointment only" pocess. Seems like common sense. You say this appointment process to helps so people don't adopt on impulse or appearance of an animal, yet when they schedule their appointment, they have to choose that dog to meet based on their intake photo. This is hypocritical! You are advocating for adopting on impulse! Add in the fact that the animal's photo is taken when they are terrified and mangy most times, so many are being overlooked because they need to be bathed, and are not showing the true potential of their personality. Give them a chance to shine in person. Maybe that adopter sees something in that animal's eyes that u don't. And you're supposed to be the director there? If you don't see this, you clearly have no soul, and must be in the wrong position. That would explain why animals are dying in such big numbers now ... and animals that rescuers are sharing are so sweet and healthy and don't deserve to die. There are amazing volunteers there, but what you call so-called experts at the shelter label dogs aggressive and antisocial so many times, and allow them to be killed, so spare me your excuse that everyone there knows what they are doing. Some of those super sweet volunteers and employees are forced to make decisions and notes on animals based on YOUR heartless orders. You are killing healthy, loving animals daily due to space concerns ... not bcuz they are aggressive!! You say you partner with rescues, but if actually sat down and listened to them, they disagree that you are working with them. Take some time and read on social media what your so-called partners feel about the way you are treating them, and killing super adoptable dogs and cats. Your survival rate has plummeted, not increased, since you made the shelter appointment only. You're straight up lying. Fudging your numbers, eh? You clearly are ..... Not good. Animals should be let out of their kennels EVERY DAY ... not every other day. How would you like to be let out of a cage every other day. Maybe u should go sit in one of those kennels for two days straight. They should be let out numerous times of day in fact! Your say your appointment program allows the staff to know the animals and have time to get to know them and care for them? The goal is to get them adopted or rescued, not analyze their terrifying stay at your shelter, and then report they have been killed. You sent me the same email reply twice. You may think you grilled me, but I was taking the time to reply in a calm fashion, as to be honest, you really pissed me off with your robot -style reply. You make yourself look very ignorant, heartless, and very out -of -touch on reality. What I am telling you are facts, and I will NOT stop fighting for these animals. Since you seem to need things repeated to comprehend.... or you just ignore them....... YOU, & everyone on this list (I added a bunch more influential people who may care more than others), have the power to save so many more animals in your facility by REOPENING your shelter COMPLETELY. Your appointment system is NOT WORKING! Your data is so rickety and unjustified, and sadly, if you don't care what I am taking the time to share with you, you seriously should be fired. I don't wish ill will on anybody, but when someone is in charge of caring for the helpless animals in a shelter, and they don't show that they care one bit, they don't deserve to be in that position. Time to wake up, Andi. Feel free to reply all again. I would love to hear the thoughts from other people on this list besides just you. -Brette- On Mon, Oct 24, 2022 at 6:35 PM Bernard, Andi <Andi.Bernard@occr.ocgov.com> wrote: Greetings Ms. Miller, Thank you for connecting with us. OC Animal Care has received and read your email. Please know that OC Animal Care's doors are open. In fact we are open seven days a week for redemptions, license renewal, intake, and adoption appointments. OCAC's Adoption -by -Appointment model provides many benefits to both the animals and the potential adopters. It is monitored by a strong team focusing on public safety and animal welfare and is guided by metrics demonstrating how it serves our staff, our community and the animals in our care. Adopting a forever friend should not be left to impulse or appearance, and our staff is well -versed in counseling adopters to make the best choice for their lifestyle. In addition, this one-on-one experience reduces the stress on the animals, minimizes wait times, and protects the safety of our adopters, volunteers and staff. We agree that potential adopters should meet and make a connection. With over 400 appointments available per week, we hope that you will make an appointment to come visit and adopt a new family pet. While scheduled appointments are available for the convenience of potential adopters, the public is welcome to visit the shelter and sign up for a walk-in appointment. I would also like to refer you to OCAC's website which contains a Fact Checker that addresses many questions and comments. Additionally, more information about OCAC's services can be found at www.ocpetinfo.com. OCAC has a challenging mission, and I am proud of the work our staff does on a daily basis to serve the sick, injured, lost and aggressive animals that come to our shelter. Warm regards, Andi Bernard Director, OC Animal Care Office: 714-796-6414 1630 Victory Road. Tustin. CA 92782 From: Brette Miller Sent: Monday, October 24, 2022 11:19 AM To: Bernard, Andi <Andi.Bernard@occr.ocgov.com>; Do, Andrew <Andrew.Do@ocgov.com>; Atkinson, Cymantha (OCCR) <Cvmantha.Atkinson@occr.ocgov.com>; Wagner, Donald <Donald.Wagner@ocgov.com>; Chaffee, Doug <Doug.Chaffee@ocgov.com>; Wright, Dylan <Dvlan.Wright@occr.ocgov.com>; Kim, Frank (HOA) <Frank.Kim @ocgov.com>; Foley, Katrina <katrina.folev@ocgov.com>; Bartlett, Lisa <Lisa.Bartlett@ocgov.com>; Schmidt, Monica <monica.schmidt@occr.ocgov.com> Subject: Help.... PLEASE!!! Attention: This email originated from 0L.Aside the COLPIt:y of Orange. Use cw.:t:iorr when opening attachments or links. I am writing to ask you to PLEASE open back up the OC Animal Care facility to the public! It makes absolutely NO sense that it is closed, and only accessible by making appointments! Allowing potential adopters and rescues to visit dogs in person at will is crucial to their survival, and they are just as worthy of being saved as any other being on this planet .... if not more! They are pure, loving creatures, and are terrified there, and by not opening up the shelter, they are being euthanized for NO reason, all because the shelters are so overcrowded. Just last week, 6 completely healthy, loving dogs were euthanized solely because space was needed at the shelter. This is heartbreaking!!! They are innocent beings, and deserve us to be their voice. The Orange County Animal Care facility is still closed to the public so that potential adopters cannot walk through the kennel buildings to look at the cats and dogs available for adoption. Someone wanting to adopt a pet needs to make an appointment for that particular pet at an agreeable date/time. And lots of potential adopters are being turned away because they do not have appointments, and these people never come back due to this inconvenience, and the shelter not having appointments that work with their schedules. Additionally, many rescue groups have moved on to more accommodating shelters. This is NOT RIGHT, and you have the power to do the right thing right now by OPENING UP THE SHELTER TO THE PUBLIC! Please stop the killing, and give these animals a chance at a loving, safe life! People should be able to walk through the shelter with a mask on like any other business.... the grocery store, the bank, the doctor's office, ETC.! These animal's lives are counting on you! There are so many people out there that want to adopt and rescue them. PLEASE OPEN BACK UP THE OC ANIMAL CARE FACILITY!!! Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Brette Miller (Resident of OC, CA for 44 years) Public Comment From: Sent: To: Subject: Begin forwarded message: Theresa Bass Sunday, November 6, 2022 3:00 PM Public Comment Fwd: [EXTERNAL] FW: PUBLIC COMMENT REQUESTING SUPPORT TO ALL GOVERMENT AGENCY /CHILD ABUSE TECHONOLGY BLUE LIGHT, EXCESSIVE SCREENTIME DEFIND BY The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) (42 U.S.C.A... AND MAYO CLINIC WITH WEBSITE ... From: durfeycraig _ Date: November 6, 2022 at 2:55:57 PM PST To: amijares@ocde.us, PublicComment@sdcounty.ca.gov, "publiccomment@anaheim.net." <publiccomment@anaheim.net.>, Theresa Bass <tbass@anaheim.net>, VKELLY@ochca.com, AMUGRITCHIAN@ochca.com, MLawrenz@ochca.com, sbe@cde.ca.gov, annie.mitchell@ocgov.com Cc: AN.TRAN@ssa.ocgov.com, CHRISTEN.SNAPPER@ssagov.com, JYOTHI.ATLURI@ssa.ocgov.com, DORTHE.LEE @ssa.ocgov.com, GAIL.ARAUJO@ssa.ocgov.com, FRANK.KIM@ocgov.com, cadurfey senator.umberg@senate.ca.gov, SENATOR.GONZALEZ@senate.ca.gov, David.Ochoa@sen.ca.gov Subject: [EXTERNAL] FW: PUBLIC COMMENT REQUESTING SUPPORT TO ALL GOVERMENT AGENCY /CHILD ABUSE TECHONOLGY BLUE LIGHT, EXCESSIVE SCREENTIME DEFIND BY The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) (42 U.S.C.A... AND MAYO CLINIC WITH WEBSITE SOCIA... Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. From: Craig A Durfey Sent: Monday, November 08, 2021 10:18 AM To: CADURFEY Christopher.Aguilera@asm.ca.gov Walter Muneton' <walter.muneton@ggusd.us> Subject: FW: PUBLIC COMMENT REQUESTING SUPPORT TO ALL GOVERMENT AGENCY /CHILD ABUSE TECHONOLGY BLUE LIGHT, EXCESSIVE SCREENTIME DEFIND BY The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) (42 U.S.C.A... AND MAYO CLINIC WITH WEBSITE SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS From: Craig A Durfey Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2021 5:30 PM To: CADUI _FEY �_nan_C�.g city.org; info ocsh_eriff:..gov;'Teresa Pomeroy' <t r s PC 9 �� 2 �dt qmr >; 'Mark.PulidO@mail.house.gov Congressman Alan Lowenthal' <CA47A!LimaC22.M��Jl....ho s ...gov>; M.g. . . ...................................................... ..... ............ 'Nick Dibs' Emi REJ.Afl S..a <SENATOR. PANC22.�.!�.[I��l!�....j�g....gov>;�E.NAIOR.GONZALEZC2�.�� g .................................................................... ................................................................... ov; ''SENATOR..W.ENER SENATE. CA.GOV- <SENATOR.W ENER sen t c ov>; 'Senator Umberg' ............................................... .......... ......................... 2 ............................................................................ .......................................................... .......................... ................. !� g....g_ <Senator. U m ber7@OLJtreach.s ov>; i e...gov;'COB Response' ........................................................................ 1� �(�e n �at e. c �a . ........... ..... ............ <r sponse@o 'Congressman Alan Lowenthal' <C.A4.7.AL.i.m.C2.M.g.i...l....h .oU.s.e...gov>; 152Q.D.D.RAIN_ PC2C.!.TY.O..F..I.I..RV..I.I..N..E.....ORG; 'Maria Stipe'< ' m a r " ia- " s ' feL ' i '...Zi�L�den- 'Christopher.Aguilera@asm.ca.gov Walter Muneton'<.w..aJ..t.e r....M L.j n ....... ... . .. ... .. . ...... . . ... ... .... as,sgM.tjyMgMber. ren don @assem bAi.ca2.ov; as,sgM.ti.yMgMber.odenneliCo)assembiA.ca.pov; ign.eill@harden-rove.OrLC!gade �;'stevej'<s e e or t y ----n-ar�ove.org>; gg.p bAjDJ.e k.2.gaL�den- 'George Brietigam'<ggorg�e.b.0 'Theresa Bass' <.t m n el>; . ...... ... ... 'Public Records Request' 'Phat Bui'<p Cc: 'Supervisor Andrew Do' <.A n..d r.e.w D.Q.C�;ggv.com>; 'Supervisor Doug Chaffee' ..... ... .... . .... ...... . .... <FOLjrth.DistrictC22.g��gpy.�nfo>;'Gabriela Mafi'<gMgfi@ gLi �dus>;'Kelly McAmis'<km.ca.mi.sC2�.gg.��.sj.....�ls>; .................................................................... ............. .......... .......... ..... ->- <ino in o c in o nb ............ p____ f.0-L.1.r.t.b d..i.s.t..ri.ci2jLa� 'Lan Nguyen' <[�.n n.�n Cc�D .. .... . . .. .. ... ... . ... .. .. . ... . ... ... �d. u s> Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT REQUESTING SUPPORT TO ALL GOVERMENT AGENCY/CHILD ABUSE TECHONOLGY BLUE LIGHT, EXCESSIVE SCREENTIME DEFIND BY The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) (42 U.S.C.A... AND MAYO CLINIC WITH WEBSITE SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS.ORG 10-06-2021 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 CELL SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS.COM FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. IlL.011III! 1""Ir"TA SAN011III! 1'2 of California. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkq/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003- 03-27.pd new website socialemotionalpaws.org Governor Gavin Newsom 1303 10th Street, Suite 1173 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 445-2841 Fax: (916) 558-3160 cc., 'Todd Spitzer Orainge Couin-Diiis-biriiict DS Malin Office 300 North Flower ' t Sain-ta Aina,92703 714-834-3600 cc K ii ii iii ss l heirs IPublic Coirnirneint ccSheriff- it h eir Doin Bairis s 550 IN, Flower Street Sain-ta Aina,92703 Uni-ted States cc Behavioral 1�4ealth AdvisoryBoard M eii beirs Public coirnirneint fires&:: 405 W, SUN St, Sain-ta Aina,92701 cc, Orainge Couin-Board f Supervisor 333 W, Sain-taii Blvd, , Sain-ta Aina, CA 92701 (71 )834-3100 cc it Steve Joines IPublic coirnirneint City f Gardein Grove 11222 AcaciaIParkway Gardein Grove CA 3 cc Airi-thoirvy Reiiindoin Asseirnibly Speaker � State Capitol Rooui Sac iiraiiirn ui- ' L IF Capitol Office State Capitol, Rooirn 205 Sac iiraiiirn ui- IPIh ine IF 108 Caiiirviiimoiiim F use Office IBuiii lI iii ui Washiiiing-toirv, DC 20515 IF225-7926 'To allCl-ties, State ' I iirl i - ui ui t 1430 IN Street Sac iiraiiirn ui- IKI l ui Mirive CostaMesa, 4 Public Coirnirneint ocbe@ocde.us Al Mijares, Phi D, Schooll Mayor F,larry Sldhu Theresa IBass, VMC Office of the City Clerk Airvahelirn Boulevard 21nd Floor, IRooui 1 " Ainahelirn, State eui , iir "i uirn Uirnberg Dis-trict Office Sain-ta Aina,1 eu iiir.Umbeiiirg@pytrg;!ch.see.caiiii,ggy Asseirnblywoirnain Jaimet NS a eui Dis-trict Office 17011 Beach Blvd III , iPili� IF,luin-fling-toin Beach, CA 92647 714-843-4966 se�Llllll �e�Luu��llll e�se�Llllll � ����E. Dear Governor Newsom Public Coirnirneint Requesting your assistance with screen time, blue light harm defined in this letter prevention, "Screen time for US tweens and teens DOUBLED during the COVID-19 pandemic to nearly eight hours a day", study finds .Child abuse is current occurring blue light causing injuries to the eyes of children. Mayo Clinic has outline the cause what is child 5 abuse. "The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) (42 U.S.C.A.... "Any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation"; or. "An act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm." The Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act requires a mandated reporter, which includes a teacher or one of certain other types of school employees, to report whenever he or she, in his or her professional capacity or within the scope of his or her employment, has knowledge of or has observed a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect. ..."Mayo clinic defines child abuse as ........',.. Clinic ...................................._......._......._......................... ":Any act that injures a minor can be considered abuse if it causes a traumatic condition or is "cruel and inhuman." The term "cruel and inhuman" is not specifically defined under California law. But a jury will give the words their ordinary meaning. Ca State Penal Code 273d PC - Child Abuse - California Law & Penalties" The team - from the University of California, San Francisco; the University of California, Los Angeles; the University of Toronto in Canada; and SRI International - says this increased screen time doesn't just affect physical health, such as worsening vision, but is also associated with mental health risks. Screen time for US teens DOUBLED during the COVID-19 pandemic to nearly eight hours a day I Daily Mail Online From my Blog Post below:! Excessive screen time in kids under 5 is worse than we thought. Excessive screen time in kids under 5 is worse than we thought (socialemotionalpaws.org) ADDICTION: Gray Matters: Too Much Screen Time Damages the Brain. Gray Matters: Too Much Screen Time Damages the Brain I Psychology Today How Could Blue Light Be Affecting Your Child's Vision? How Could Blue Light Be Affecting Your Child's Vision? (socialemotionalpaws.org) 95% Of Americans Risk Eye Problems By Staring At Screens All Day. 95% Of Americans Risk Eye Problems By Staring At Screens All Day (socialemotionalpaws.org) 6 DO YOU SUFFER FROM SOCIAL MEDIA'S 'DARK SIDE'? HERE ARE THE 46 HARMFUL EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA. Among the 46 harmful effects of social media were found to be anx (socialemotionalpaws.org) Autism and Screen Time: Special Brains, Special Risks. Autism and Screen Time: Special Brains, Special Risks. (socialemotionalpaws.org) As Screen Time Reaches All -Time Highs, California Recognizes the 3rd Annual Blue Light Awareness Day on October 10. As Screen Time Reaches All -Time Highs Blue Light Awareness Day on (socialemotionalpaws.org) What Screen Time Can Really Do to Kids' Brains Too much at the worst possible age may have negative consequences. What Screen Time Can Really Do to Kids' Brains Too much at the (socialemotionalpaws.org) Digital devices can interfere with everything from sleep to creativity Screen Time and the Brain Digital devices can interfere with ever (socialemotionalpaws.org) OPEN LETTER AWARENESS TECNOLOGY BLUE LIGHT PREVENT CHILD ABUSE!!! OPEN LETTER AWARENESS TECNOLOGY BLUE LIGHT PREVENT CHILD ABUSEM (socialemotionalpaws.org) Limit screen time to an hour a day for under 5s with none at all Limit screen time to an hour a day for under 5s with none at all (socialemotionalpaws.org) The Blue Light Summit 2020 brings together world leaders from consumer electronics and health care, and is open for registrants including employers, health care providers, media and the public. Welcome to the Blue Liaht Summit 2020 What are the Effects of Blu (socialemotionalpaws.org) Preferring print in our digital age.! (LA TIMES REPORT) Preferring print in our digital age.! (socialemotionalpaws.org) Blue Light Filters: 7 Blue Light Filters (socialemotionalpaws.org) The number of nearsighted kids is soaring - and screen time The number of nearsiahted kids is soarina - and screen time (socialemotionalpaws.org) Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic ....... ®// ci ic. iir / i e e ,,,c i i /c it u e! t Request your upmost consideration to address these concerns. Thank You Craig A, Durfey Founder of P.R.D.D.C. P.11 II'`M111 % ANY INTENTIONAL HARM OR MISTREATMENT TO A CHILD UNDER 18 YEARS OLD IS CONSIDERED CHILD ABUSE. CHILD ABUSE TAKES MANY FORMS, WHICH OFTEN OCCUR AT THE SAME TIME. = ;j : V&i [a_1 W_1.1114 =M ;j : V&i [a_1 Wei: I I, D7_1.1114 =110Z010i1J zi&1 '1:14 : I_1 CHILD IS PURPOSELY PHYSICALLY INJURED OR PUT AT RISK OF HARM BY ANOTHER PERSON. s z. SEXUAL ABUSE. SEXUAL CHILD ABUSE IS ANY SEXUAL ACTIVITY WITH A CHILD, SUCH AS FONDLING, ORAL -GENITAL CONTACT, INTERCOURSE, EXPLOITATION OR EXPOSURE TO CHILD PORNOGRAPHY. 3. EMOTIONAL ABUSE. EMOTIONAL CHILD ABUSE MEANS INJURING A CHILD'S SELF-ESTEEM OR EMOTIONAL WELL- BEING. IT INCLUDES VERBAL AND EMOTIONAL ASSAULT — SUCH AS CONTINUALLY BELITTLING OR BERATING A CHILD — AS WELL AS ISOLATING, IGNORING OR REJECTING A CHILD. =I ►' 14 o7 [a_1 W_1.1111 =m ►' 14 o7 [a_1 We]: I I, D7_1.1111 =110Z010i1J zi&1 '1:14 SOMEONE GIVES FALSE INFORMATION ABOUT ILLNESS IN A CHILD THAT REQUIRES MEDICAL ATTENTION, PUTTING THE CHILD AT RISK OF INJURY AND UNNECESSARY MEDICAL CARE. 5. NEGLECT. CHILD NEGLECT IS FAILURE TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE FOOD, SHELTER, AFFECTION, SUPERVISION, EDUCATION, OR DENTAL OR MEDICAL CARE. IN MANY CASES, CHILD ABUSE IS DONE BY SOMEONE THE CHILD KNOWS AND TRUSTS — OFTEN A PARENT OR OTHER RELATIVE. IF YOU SUSPECT CHILD ABUSE, REPORT THE ABUSE TO THE PROPER AUTHORITIES. A CHILD WHO'S BEING ABUSED MAY FEEL GUILTY, ASHAMED OR CONFUSED. HE OR SHE MAY BE AFRAID TO TELL ANYONE ABOUT THE ABUSE, ESPECIALLY IF THE ABUSER IS A PARENT, OTHER RELATIVE OR FAMILY FRIEND. THAT'S WHY IT'S VITAL TO WATCH FOR RED FLAGS, SUCH AS: i. WITHDRAWAL FROM FRIENDS OR USUAL ACTIVITIES z. CHANGES IN BEHAVIOR — SUCH AS AGGRESSION, ANGER, HOSTILITY OR HYPERACTIVITY — OR CHANGES IN SCHOOL 4 :1 ile] :7 ►' I_1: [a] 0 3. DEPRESSION, ANXIETY OR UNUSUAL FEARS, OR A SUDDEN LOSS OF SELF-CONFIDENCE 4. AN APPARENT LACK OF SUPERVISION 5. FREQUENT ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL 9 6. RELUCTANCE TO LEAVE SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, AS IF HE OR SHE DOESN'T WANT TO GO HOME 7. ATTEMPTS AT RUNNING AWAY s. REBELLIOUS OR DEFIANT BEHAVIOR 9. SELF -HARM OR ATTEMPTS AT SUICIDE SPECIFIC SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS DEPEND ON THE TYPE OF ABUSE AND CAN VARY. KEEP IN MIND THAT WARNING SIGNS ARE JUST THAT — WARNING SIGNS. THE PRESENCE OF WARNING SIGNS DOESN'T NECESSARILY MEAN THAT A CHILD IS BEING ABUSED. i, n, , wr, / , 1. UNEXPLAINED INJURIES, SUCH AS BRUISES, FRACTURES OR BURNS z. INJURIES THAT DON'T MATCH THE GIVEN EXPLANATION E I.., ABUSE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS 1. SEXUAL BEHAVIOR OR KNOWLEDGE THAT'S INAPPROPRIATE FOR THE CHILD'S AGE z. PREGNANCY OR A SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION 3. BLOOD IN THE CHILD'S UNDERWEAR 4. STATEMENTS THAT HE OR SHE WAS SEXUALLY ABUSED 5. INAPPROPRIATE SEXUAL CONTACT WITH OTHER CHILDREN E I I.., ABUSE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS i. DELAYED OR INAPPROPRIATE EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT z. LOSS OF SELF-CONFIDENCE OR SELF-ESTEEM 3. SOCIAL WITHDRAWAL OR A LOSS OF INTEREST OR ENTHUSIASM 4. DEPRESSION 5. AVOIDANCE OF CERTAIN SITUATIONS, SUCH AS REFUSING TO GO TO SCHOOL OR RIDE THE BUS 6. DESPERATELY SEEKS AFFECTION 7. A DECREASE IN SCHOOL PERFORMANCE OR LOSS OF INTEREST IN SCHOOL s. LOSS OF PREVIOUSLY ACQUIRED DEVELOPMENTAL SKILLS NEGI..,ECT SIGNSSYMPTOMS 10 i. POOR GROWTH OR WEIGHT GAIN OR BEING OVERWEIGHT z. POOR HYGIENE 3. LACK OF CLOTHING OR SUPPLIES TO MEET PHYSICAL NEEDS 4. TAKING FOOD OR MONEY WITHOUT PERMISSION 5. HIDING FOOD FOR LATER 6. POOR RECORD OF SCHOOL ATTENDANCE 7. LACK OF APPROPRIATE ATTENTION FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL PROBLEMS OR LACK OF NECESSARY FOLLOW-UP CARE P E I.., BE14AVIOIR SOMETIMES A PARENT'S DEMEANOR OR BEHAVIOR SENDS RED FLAGS ABOUT CHILD ABUSE. WARNING SIGNS INCLUDE A PARENT WHO: i. SHOWS LITTLE CONCERN FOR THE CHILD z. APPEARS UNABLE TO RECOGNIZE PHYSICAL OR EMOTIONAL DISTRESS IN THE CHILD 3. BLAMES THE CHILD FOR THE PROBLEMS 4. CONSISTENTLY BELITTLES OR BERATES THE CHILD, AND DESCRIBES THE CHILD WITH NEGATIVE TERMS, SUCH AS "WORTHLESS" OR "EVIL" 5. EXPECTS THE CHILD TO PROVIDE HIM OR HER WITH ATTENTION AND CARE AND SEEMS JEALOUS OF OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS GETTING ATTENTION FROM THE CHILD 6. USES HARSH PHYSICAL DISCIPLINE 7. DEMANDS AN INAPPROPRIATE LEVEL OF PHYSICAL OR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE s. SEVERELY LIMITS THE CHILD'S CONTACT WITH OTHERS 9. OFFERS CONFLICTING OR UNCONVINCING EXPLANATIONS FOR A CHILD'S INJURIES OR NO EXPLANATION AT ALL CHILD HEALTH EXPERTS CONDEMN THE USE OF VIOLENCE IN ANY FORM, BUT SOME PEOPLE STILL USE CORPORAL PUNISHMENT, SUCH AS SPANKING, AS A WAY TO DISCIPLINE THEIR CHILDREN. ANY CORPORAL PUNISHMENT MAY LEAVE EMOTIONAL SCARS. PARENTAL BEHAVIORS THAT CAUSE PAIN, PHYSICAL INJURY OR EMOTIONAL TRAUMA — EVEN WHEN DONE IN THE NAME OF DISCIPLINE — COULD BE CHILD ABUSE. 11 IF YOU'RE CONCERNED THAT YOUR CHILD OR ANOTHER CHILD HAS BEEN ABUSED, SEEK HELP IMMEDIATELY. DEPENDING ON THE SITUATION, CONTACT THE CHILD'S DOCTOR OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER, A LOCAL CHILD PROTECTIVE AGENCY, THE POLICE DEPARTMENT, OR A 24-HOUR HOTLINE SUCH AS CHILDHELP NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE (1-800-422-4453). IF THE CHILD NEEDS IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION, CALL 911 OR YOUR LOCAL EMERGENCY NUMBER. KEEP IN MIND THAT HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS ARE LEGALLY REQUIRED TO REPORT ALL SUSPECTED CASES OF CHILD ABUSE TO THE APPROPRIATE COUNTY AUTHORITIES OR THE POLICE. FACTORS THAT MAY INCREASE A PERSON'S RISK OF BECOMING ABUSIVE INCLUDE: i. A HISTORY OF BEING ABUSED OR NEGLECTED AS A CHILD 2. PHYSICAL OR MENTAL ILLNESS, SUCH AS DEPRESSION OR POST -TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) 3. FAMILY CRISIS OR STRESS, INCLUDING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND OTHER MARITAL CONFLICTS, OR SINGLE PARENTING 4. A CHILD IN THE FAMILY WHO IS DEVELOPMENTALLY OR PHYSICALLY DISABLED 5. FINANCIAL STRESS, UNEMPLOYMENT OR POVERTY 6. SOCIAL OR EXTENDED FAMILY ISOLATION 7. POOR UNDERSTANDING OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND PARENTING SKILLS s. ALCOHOL, DRUGS OR OTHER SUBSTANCE ABUSE COMPI.JCATIONS SOME CHILDREN OVERCOME THE PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF CHILD ABUSE, PARTICULARLY THOSE WITH STRONG SOCIAL SUPPORT AND RESILIENCY SKILLS WHO CAN ADAPT AND COPE WITH BAD EXPERIENCES. FOR MANY OTHERS, HOWEVER, CHILD ABUSE MAY RESULT IN PHYSICAL, BEHAVIORAL, EMOTIONAL OR MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES — EVEN YEARS LATER. BELOW ARE SOME EXAMPLES. 12 i. PREMATURE DEATH z. PHYSICAL DISABILITIES 3. LEARNING DISABILITIES 4. SUBSTANCE ABUSE 5. HEALTH PROBLEMS, SUCH AS HEART DISEASE, IMMUNE DISORDERS, CHRONIC LUNG DISEASE AND CANCER BEHAVIORAN. ISSUES i. DELINQUENT OR VIOLENT BEHAVIOR z. ABUSE OF OTHERS 3. WITHDRAWAL 4. SUICIDE ATTEMPTS OR SELF -INJURY 5. HIGH -RISK SEXUAL BEHAVIORS OR TEEN PREGNANCY 6. PROBLEMS IN SCHOOL OR NOT FINISHING HIGH SCHOOL 7. LIMITED SOCIAL AND RELATIONSHIP SKILLS s. PROBLEMS WITH WORK OR STAYING EMPLOYED EMOTIONAN.I E i. LOW SELF-ESTEEM z. DIFFICULTY ESTABLISHING OR MAINTAINING RELATIONSHIPS 3. CHALLENGES WITH INTIMACY AND TRUST 4. AN UNHEALTHY VIEW OF PARENTHOOD 5. INABILITY TO COPE WITH STRESS AND FRUSTRATIONS 6. AN ACCEPTANCE THAT VIOLENCE IS A NORMAL PART OF RELATIONSHIPS MENTAN. H E I.TH DISORDERS i. EATING DISORDERS z. PERSONALITY DISORDERS 3. BEHAVIOR DISORDERS 4. DEPRESSION 5. ANXIETY DISORDERS 6. POST -TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) 13 7. SLEEP DISTURBANCES s. ATTACHMENT DISORDERS IaI'` Iw/l w 10/3 YOU CAN TAKE IMPORTANT STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD FROM EXPLOITATION AND CHILD ABUSE, AS WELL AS PREVENT CHILD ABUSE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD OR COMMUNITY. THE GOAL IS TO PROVIDE SAFE, STABLE, NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS FOR CHILDREN. FOR EXAMPLE: i. OFFER YOUR CHILD LOVE AND ATTENTION. NURTURE YOUR CHILD, LISTEN AND BE INVOLVED IN HIS OR HER LIFE TO DEVELOP TRUST AND GOOD COMMUNICATION. ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO TELL YOU IF THERE'S A PROBLEM. A SUPPORTIVE FAMILY ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL NETWORKS CAN FOSTER YOUR CHILD'S SELF-ESTEEM AND SENSE OF SELF-WORTH. z. DON'T RESPOND IN ANGER. IF YOU FEEL OVERWHELMED OR OUT OF CONTROL, TAKE A BREAK. DON'T TAKE OUT YOUR ANGER ON YOUR CHILD. TALK WITH YOUR DOCTOR OR THERAPIST ABOUT WAYS YOU CAN LEARN TO COPE WITH STRESS AND BETTER INTERACT WITH YOUR CHILD. 3. THINK SUPERVISION. DON'T LEAVE A YOUNG CHILD HOME ALONE. IN PUBLIC, KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON YOUR CHILD. VOLUNTEER AT SCHOOL AND FOR ACTIVITIES TO GET TO KNOW THE ADULTS WHO SPEND TIME WITH YOUR CHILD. WHEN OLD ENOUGH TO GO OUT WITHOUT SUPERVISION, ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO STAY AWAY FROM STRANGERS AND TO HANG OUT WITH FRIENDS RATHER THAN BE ALONE — AND TO TELL YOU WHERE HE OR SHE IS AT ALL TIMES. FIND OUT WHO'S SUPERVISING YOUR CHILD — FOR EXAMPLE, AT A SLEEPOVER. 4. KNOW YOUR CHILD'S CAREGIVERS. CHECK REFERENCES FOR BABYSITTERS AND OTHER CAREGIVERS. MAKE IRREGULAR, BUT FREQUENT, UNANNOUNCED VISITS TO OBSERVE WHAT'S HAPPENING. DON'T ALLOW SUBSTITUTES FOR YOUR USUAL CHILD CARE PROVIDER IF YOU DON'T KNOW THE SUBSTITUTE. 5. EMPHASIZE WHEN TO SAY NO. MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD UNDERSTANDS THAT HE OR SHE DOESN'T HAVE TO DO 14 ANYTHING THAT SEEMS SCARY OR UNCOMFORTABLE. ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO LEAVE A THREATENING OR FRIGHTENING SITUATION IMMEDIATELY AND SEEK HELP FROM A TRUSTED ADULT. IF SOMETHING HAPPENS, ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO TALK TO YOU OR ANOTHER TRUSTED ADULT ABOUT THE EPISODE. ASSURE YOUR CHILD THAT IT'S OK TO TALK AND THAT HE OR SHE WON'T GET IN TROUBLE. d =rAl] : wtailJ :Zl3 : I I, o7 :1617A t0�� fXdl--�_1 a =1101 ► I, I ► I =M 01 i 1:14 COMPUTER IN A COMMON AREA OF YOUR HOME, NOT THE CHILD'S BEDROOM. USE THE PARENTAL CONTROLS TO RESTRICT THE TYPES OF WEBSITES YOUR CHILD CAN VISIT, AND CHECK YOUR CHILD'S PRIVACY SETTINGS ON SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES. CONSIDER IT A RED FLAG IF YOUR CHILD IS SECRETIVE ABOUT ONLINE ACTIVITIES. COVER GROUND RULES, SUCH AS NOT SHARING PERSONAL INFORMATION; NOT RESPONDING TO INAPPROPRIATE, HURTFUL OR FRIGHTENING MESSAGES; AND NOT ARRANGING TO MEET AN ONLINE CONTACT IN PERSON WITHOUT YOUR PERMISSION. TELL YOUR CHILD TO LET YOU KNOW IF AN UNKNOWN PERSON MAKES CONTACT THROUGH A SOCIAL NETWORKING SITE. REPORT ONLINE HARASSMENT OR INAPPROPRIATE SENDERS TO YOUR SERVICE PROVIDER AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES, IF NECESSARY. 7. REACH OUT. MEET THE FAMILIES IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD, INCLUDING PARENTS AND CHILDREN. CONSIDER JOINING A PARENT SUPPORT GROUP SO THAT YOU HAVE AN APPROPRIATE PLACE TO VENT YOUR FRUSTRATIONS. DEVELOP A NETWORK OF SUPPORTIVE FAMILY AND FRIENDS. IF A FRIEND OR NEIGHBOR SEEMS TO BE STRUGGLING, OFFER TO BABYSIT OR HELP IN ANOTHER WAY. IF YOU'RE CONCERNED THAT YOU MIGHT ABUSE YOUR CHILD, SEEK HELP IMMEDIATELY. THESE ORGANIZATIONS CAN PROVIDE INFORMATION AND REFERRALS: i. CHILDHELP NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE: 1-800-4-A- CHILD (1-800-422-4453) 15 z. PREVENT CHILD ABUSE AMERICA: 1-800-CHILDREN (1-800- 244-5373) OR YOU CAN START BY TALKING WITH YOUR FAMILY DOCTOR OR :I=F_151d:[a_1:7=I;jzTelvi101=1zm:I=110]All: I=1►'rXiffe]aa=1:7_\:7=1a=1:7:7_1mte7_1 PARENT EDUCATION CLASS, COUNSELING OR A SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS TO HELP YOU LEARN APPROPRIATE WAYS TO DEAL WITH YOUR ANGER. IF YOU'RE ABUSING ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT TREATMENT OPTIONS. IF YOU WERE ABUSED AS A CHILD, GET COUNSELING TO ENSURE YOU DON'T CONTINUE THE ABUSE CYCLE OR TEACH THOSE DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIORS TO YOUR CHILD. REMEMBER, CHILD ABUSE IS PREVENTABLE — AND OFTEN A SYMPTOM OF A PROBLEM THAT MAY BE TREATABLE. ASK FOR HELP TO DAY. lFlY MAYl..111 '1 STAFF' ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. IlV 121IV /ml II q 10 9110l' l ll'` ANY USE OF THIS SITE CONSTITUTES YOUR AGREEMENT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY LINKED BELOW. 1 ""'"' IIIIIIIIIIIIII IIIII S INIII C IIIIIII C IIIII ""'"' IIIII IIIIIII S z. 14�')MlVAClir 4 I WII� 3. IIII�III "°°�°� IIIII IIIIIPIIIIIII � IIIIII'w''w'" 111114 IIIII �WII� 111114 °°�°� IIIII IIIIIPIIIIIII S ►' rXileZa3, I ► I [as F&-V_\ ► [a] ► I J :Zs] a Y ta] :Zr7_1► I IFAA d [a] ► I_1► I o7 J :Zell] =1 =1 01:1 a :Zs] ►' 1 WEB ADVERTISING HELP SUPPORT OUR MISSION. MAYO CLINIC DOES NOT ENDORSE ANY OF THE THIRD PARTY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES ADVERTISED. 1. C 9111111 ""'[" IIIII S IIIII IIIIIII '° INIII C S 111114' IIIIIII S' S IllllWw:lllll 111114 111114' IIIIII WII� z. C llllllllllllll""'["IIIIISIIIIIIIIIIII'" INIIIC 5111114'IIIIIIIS'SlllllWw:llll1111114'111114111114""'["IIIIIIIIIIII""'["IIIII IIIIIIIIIIIIIIS A SINGLE COPY OF THESE MATERIALS MAY BE REPRINTED FOR NONCOMMERCIAL PERSONAL USE ONLY. "MAYO," "MAYO CLINIC," 16 "MAYOCLINIC.ORG," "MAYO CLINIC HEALTHY LIVING," AND THE TRIPLE -SHIELD MAYO CLINIC LOGO ARE TRADEMARKS OF MAYO FOUNDATION FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH. © 1998-2021 MAYO FOUNDATION FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH (MFMER). ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 17 Public Comment From: Craig A Durfey Sent: Tuesday, November 8, 2022 9:42 PM To: Theresa Bass; cityclerk@santa-ana.org; cityclerk@newportbeachca.gov; communityrelations; Public Comment Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Esport under ten years old should not be permitted at all medically reports causes brain injury Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Forwarded message From: Craig Durfey Date: Tue, Nov 8, 2022 at 9:38 PM Subject: Esport under ten years old should not be permitted at all medically reports causes brain injury To: Public Request <cityclerk@ggcity.org>, Teresa Pomeroy <teresap@ggcity.org>, Jim Tortolano , <cadurfey , <pamha@ggcity.org>, <Marias@ci.garden-grove.ca.us>, Mark Lawrenz <MLawrenz@ochca.com> https://ymcaoc.org/eeports/ Shared via the Google app Sent from my iPhone Public Comment From: Craig A Durfey Sent: Monday, November 14, 2022 1:29 AM To: senator.umberg@senate.ca.gov; Maria Stipe; SENATOR.GONZALEZ@senate.ca.gov; Public Records Request; Public Comment; Theresa Bass; David.Ochoa@sen.ca.gov; Pam Haddad; Maureen Blackmun; stevej; PIO Department; info@namica.org; info@ggea.org; info@oclabor.org; Craig A Durfey; Congressman Alan Lowenthal; editor at oc-breeze.com; ocbe@ocde.us; COB_Response; durfeycraig Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Review of the Research: Are Therapy Dogs in Classrooms Beneficial? Attachments: Review of the Research Are Therapy Dogs in Classrooms Beneficial EJ1173578.pdf; H.R. 1448 117TH CONGRESS PAWS FOR VETERANS NOW LAW..pdf Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: <durfeycrai Date: Mon, Nov 14, 2022 at 1:25 AM Subject: Review of the Research: Are Therapy Dogs in Classrooms Beneficial? To: <SHELLYHOLMAN <sbe@cde.ca.gov> Cc: <cadurfevi <durfeycraig 11-14-2022 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 CELL SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS.COM FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY 1 U.S. 404 - HONORING OIRAIG llm'NWI' IIIFIE IGHT AGAINSTAUTISM ... Ms. LOIRETTA SNIMOIKEZ of California. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkq/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotiogAlpAws.org To whom it may concern Request legislation to provide therapy dogs for children, college, first responders. Review of the Research: Are Therapy Dogs in Classrooms ...https://files.eric.ed.gov 1, fulltext PDF by JJ Kropp - 2017 - Cited by 15 — having a therapy dog program in a school setting. Introduction: Research over the past 30 years indicates that therapy dogs may offer physiological, ... 19 pages Thank You Craig A Durfey N 11/14/22, 1:07 AM H.RA448 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act I Congress.gov I Library of Congress C0NGR__ESS*G0V H.R.1448 - PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act 117th Congress (2021-2022) J Get alerts Sponsor: Rep. Stivers, Steve [R-OH-15j (Introduced 03/0112021) Committees: House - Veterans' Affairs I Senate - Veterans` Affairs Committee Reports: H. Rept. 117-31 Latest Action: 0812512021 Became Public Law No: 117-37. (All Actions) Tracker: 0 Introduced > Passed House > Passed senate > To President > Became Law Summary(4) Text(6) Actions(23) Titles(12) Amendments(0) Cosponsors(317) Committees(2) Related Bills(2) There are 4 summaries for H,R,1448. Public Law (08/2512021) N Bill summaries are authored by CRS. Shown Here: Public Law No. 117-37 (08/25/2021) Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers for Veterans Therapy Act or the PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act This bill implements a program and a policy related to service dog therapy for veterans. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a rive -year pilot program to provide canine training to eligible veterans diagnosed with post -traumatic stress disorder as an element of a complementary and integrative health program. Eligible veterans are those who are enrolled in the VA health care system and have been recommended for participation by a qualified mental health care provider or clinical team. The VA must seek to enter agreements containing specified elements with accredited nongovernmental entities that have demonstrated ability to provide canine training. Veterans who participate in the program are authorized to adopt the dog they assisted in training if their health provider determines it is in the best interest of the veteran. The VA must establish processes to document and track the progress of participating veterans with respect to health benefits and improvements. The Government Accountability Office must brief Congress and submit a report on the program. The bill also authorizes the VA to provide service dogs to veterans with mental illnesses, regardless of whether they have a mobility impairment. https:llwww.con gross. govlbill/117th-congressfhouse-bi1111448 111 Forum on Public Policy Review of the Research: Are Therapy Dogs in Classrooms Beneficial? Jerri J. Kropp, Ph.D, CCLS, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, Associate Professor, School of Human Ecology and Mikaela M. Shupp, BBA, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia (alumna), Academic Advisor, College of Business Abstract Research Endings on the presence of a therapy dog in the classroom are summarized. The authors reviewed 30 articles, book chapters, and other sources on the topic of the various uses of dogs in classrooms, published between 2001 and 2017. Ages studied ranged from 3 years to adolescence (high school). In our analysis, three categories of therapeutic benefit emerged: a) increased reading and language skills, b) social, emotional, and humane gains, and c) improved gross motor skills. Numerous studies have found that literacy skills can be improved from reading to dogs and that children gain confidence in reading and report an increased love of reading (Fine 2015). Therapy dogs can also provide stability and comfort to children who are living in poverty or abusive homes. Caring for a classroom animal teaches responsibility, builds confidence, and gives children a sense of pride and accomplishment. Common concerns and objections to having a therapy dog in the classroom are discussed, as well as recommended policies and procedures for having a therapy dog program in a school setting. Introduction: Research over the past 30 years indicates that therapy dogs may offer physiological, emotional, social, and physical support for children (Friesen, 2010). The use of therapy dogs with children is successful due to children's natural tendency to open up to animals and the stress moderating effect of the calm and nonjudgmental presence of a therapy dog (Jalongo, Astorino & Bomboy, 2004). There has not only been an increase in the use of therapy dogs in classrooms in recent years, but the number of articles citing empirical research has greatly increased in the last ten years. Teratinology used: Various terms are used to describe the use of therapy dogs. The preferred terms are: a) Animal - Assisted Activities (AAA) which provide opportunities for motivational, educational, or recreational benefits to enhance quality of life, and are delivered in a variety of settings by volunteers or trained professionals with animals that meet specific criteria; there are no specified treatment goals and the visit content is spontaneous; b) Animal Assisted Education (AAE), which is a goal -oriented, planned intervention directed by a general education or special education professional, c) Animal -Assisted Intervention (AAI), which are goal oriented interventions which incorporate animals in health, education, and human services for improved health and wellness and/or therapeutic gains, and d) Animal -Assisted Therapy (AAT), which is a planned, goal directed therapeutic intervention directed by health and human services providers as part of their profession, in which an animal that meets specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. According to Pet Partners, AAI, AAA, AAT and AAE are the preferred terms, and the term "pet therapy" should be avoided because it is inaccurate and misleading (https://petpartners.org/leam/tenninology). It is important to note that there are four distinct categories of animals used for various reasons and with various populations. A certified therapy dog provides comfort and affection, and their handlers are volunteers who visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, hospice, libraries, and other facilities. These therapy animals have no special rights and must have the permission of the facility to visit. There are usually requirements such as grooming, providing veterinarian records, and proof of certification. Assistance animals (also called service dogs) are individually trained (not by the owner) to do work or perform tasks for people with specific disabilities, such as guide dogs for the blind, alerting people who are deaf, calming a person who has post -traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), dogs who provide mobility assistance, or communicate medical alerts for individuals with diabetes or epilepsy, for example. These dogs also greatly enhance the quality of the lives of their owners with a new sense of independence and freedom. Assistance dogs are considered working animals, not pets. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), these dogs are permitted to accompany a person with a disability almost anywhere, including restaurants, businesses, and airplanes. An emotional support dog, or comfort animal, is a pet that provides therapeutic support to a person with an emotional or mental illness and must be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional for a person with these conditions. The prescription must state that the individual has an impairment that substantially limits life activities and is necessary for the person's mental health. According to the ADA, emotional support animals do not have the same rights to public access as service dogs, but may travel with their owners on an airplane and may live with their owner in locations covered by the Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA). Facility dogs are regularly present in a residential or clinical setting. They may live with a handler who is an employee of the facility and come to work each day or may live at the facility full time under the care of a primary handler. Facility dogs receive special training and may be used for AAA, AAE, or AAT. These animals do not have special rights of access in public unless they are accompanying or supporting a person with a disability. Although many different types of animals can be used for therapeutic purposes, in this paper, the authors only included studies that used dogs. Leading organizations that certify dogs: Therapy animal teams are certified, which implies that a third party has assessed the handler's mastery of knowledge and skills, and the dog's suitability and temperament to be a therapy animal. There are three leading organizations that certify therapy dogs. Pet Partners (formerly Delta Society) was formed in 1977. Built on the organization's research foundation, programs were focused on providing direct services in local communities. Pet Partners was the first comprehensive, standardized training in animal - assisted activities and therapy for volunteers and healthcare professionals. Over 15,000 animal/handler teams across the US are registered with Pet Partners, making approximately three million visits per year (Pet Partners 2017). Therapy Dogs International (TDI) is a volunteer group organized to provide qualified handlers and their therapy dogs for visitations to institutions, facilities, and other places where therapy dogs are needed. Founded in 1976 so that dogs could be tested, certified, and insured as volunteer therapy dogs. TDI is the oldest registry for therapy dogs in the US, with dogs working in the US and Canada and some other countries (Therapy Dogs International 2017). Intermountain Therapy Animals is a non-profit organization bringing animal resources to human needs. The mission statement of the organization is enhancing quality of life through the human -animal bond. They specialize in the areas of physical, occupational, speech, and psychotherapies, as well as special education. They also founded the Reading Education Assistance Dog (R.E.A.D.) program in 1999 to improve children's reading and communication skills by reading to registered therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers who go to schools, libraries, and other settings. .Method.• The authors reviewed 30 articles, book chapters, and other sources on the topic of the various uses of dogs in classrooms, published between 2001 and 2017; 25 out of 30 articles (83%) were published in the last ten years. Ages studied ranged from 3 years to adolescence (high school); however the majority of the articles (26 out of 30; 87%) focused on children in elementary school. Four studies focused specifically on preschoolers. Three major categories of therapeutic benefit emerged: a) increased reading and language skills (R), b) social, emotional, and humane gains (SE), and c) improved gross motor skills (GM). In addition, several articles discussed common concerns and recommendations for implementing the practice of having a dog in the classroom. Refer to Table 1 for first author, year, category, population, and a summary of main findings. Table 1: Summary of results from article reviews First Year Title Categ. Population Important Findings Author The value of a dog Self contained -Qualitative analysis of data indicated that the dog's in a classroom of classroom of 6 placement in the classroom: children with elementary -Contributed to students' overall emotional stability Anderson, K 200E severe emotional SE aged children -Improved students' attitudes toward schools disorders diagnosed with -Facilitated students learning lessons in responsibility, severe respect, and empathy emotional disorders Who Let the Dog Self contained -Results indicated: In? How to classroom of 6 -Students' attitudes toward school improved. Incorporate a Dog elementary -Students found companionship with the dog. into a Self- aged children -Students used the dog to remain in control of their Contained diagnosed with emotions and behaviors in order to prevent them from Anderson, K 2007 Classroom SE severe entering emotional crisis. emotional -Students used the dog as a de-escalation tool to calm disorders their minds and bodies when they did enter into emotional crisis. -Students' learning was extended by fostering growth in respect, responsibility, and empathy. Bringing therapy School age -Will help school administrators and educators better dogs to your understand the benefits of having a therapy dog in a school school: A practical setting. guide for school SE -Provides an overview of potential benefits, common administrators and objections, goals of therapy dog programs in schools, and educators steps in implementing a dog therapy program. Bacon, C 2014 The Effects of a 3 elementary -Results indicated that all three students experienced Dog Reading aged students increases in on -task behaviors during intervention and Visitation Program wl emotional maintained improvements over time. on Academic behavioral -"It was not until the dogs were present during intervention Engagement disabilities that they became engaged in the reading and more willing Behavior in Three SEIR to read aloud" (252). Elementary Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities: A Bassette, L 2013 Single Case Design Socio-emotional 25 students in -"The dog -class students reported a stronger improvement correlates of a third grade with regard to positive attitude toward school and positive Beetz, A 2013 schooldog-teacher- SE (Germany) emotions related to learning" (1). team in the classroom Animal -Assisted -Review of 25 papers relating to animal -assisted Interventions in the interventions conducted in educational settings. Classroom -A -Studies involved three different animals: guinea pigs, Systematic Review rabbits, and dogs. -Studies were grouped within eight topics, including, reading ability, emotional stability and learning, and social SE/R functioning and interpersonal skills. -"The majority of the studies reported beneficial effects on cognitive and socio-emotional behavior and physiological responses" (28). -Recognized the need for more robust research with increased sample sizes, adequate control groups, and strict Brelsford, V 2017 testing protocols. Therapeutic Dog 3-5 year old -When the therapy dog is present, "the whole feeling of the Gets High Praise preschool classroom is calmer" (2). For His Role In students -Waco, the therapy dog, participated in all classroom Preschool activities-toothbrushing time, picking up toys, and opening Classroom the door to the playground. Cambria, N 2010 SE Animal -Assisted -"Animals in counseling sessions and the classroom Therapy in facilitate an atmosphere of trust, nurturance, and Counseling and SE relationship building" (2). School Settings -Overview of benefits of animals in classrooms. Chandler, C 2001 Lessons Learned -Grades K-2, 3- -The therapy dog helped deliver eight life lessons, which from Dogs in the b included the importance of waiting, being friendly to Classroom -Alternative everyone, and making sure to eat good foods. Education education -The therapy dogs in the high school were part of a plan to World 2013 SE program in a help students meet graduation requirements. Morgan, the high school therapy dog, calmed anxious students and served as a reward to students who stayed on task with no emotional outbursts. Social Effects of a Three 5-9 year -"The study showed that the presence of the dog during Dog's Presence on old children sessions increased positive initiated interactions toward the Children with with teacher and the dog for all three participants" (13). Esteves, S 2008 Disabilities SE developmental -Authors also noted that the rate of occurrence of negative disabilities interactions decreased with the intervention. How a therapy dog Elementary -Provided an overview of Guthrie's research on literacy may inspire student aged children engagement and potential application using therapy dogs. literacy -Provided anecdotal evidence of impact using author's engagement in personal therapy dog, Tango. Friesen, L 2009 elementary R -"Tango united them [children] in a common and authentic language arts purpose for learning, and therefore served as the classroom springboard for numerous other literary -based activities" (109). Exploring Animal- Wide overview - Expressed that therapy dogs may offer physiological, Assisted Programs of programs, emotional, social, and physical support for children. with Children in emphasis on -Interacting with dogs can help to encourage children's Friesen, L 2010 School and SE special needs social interaction with peers and adults in special needs Therapeutic classrooms classrooms. Contexts Potential for the Elementary -Provided goals and best practices of school -based Role of School- aged children mentorship programs that involve therapy dogs. Based Animal- R - Presented ways mentors can incorporate the six language Assisted Literacy arts into animal -assisted literacy sessions. Mentoring Friesen, L 2010 Programs Animal -assisted 45 students, -Examined five animal -assisted literacy programs in literacy: A grades 1-5 Canada. supportive -"Interaction with the animal served as a conduit for playful environment for communication and fostered a sense of agency on the part constrained and R of the child" (104). unconstrained -"Animal-assisted learning sessions provided meaningful learning and novel opportunities for both constrained and unconstrained literacy skill developments" (105). Friesen, L 2012 The Gifted Child Single case -Illustrated how reading and writing with a dog helped As Cheetah: A study on gifted nurture the child's unique brilliance Unique Animal- 7 year old (2nd -In addition to giving five suggestions for working with Assisted Literacy grader) gifted young children, Friesen outlined five benefits animal - Program assisted literacy learning experiences for high -achieving Friesen, L 2013 R children: individualized learning, unconditional acceptance and companionship, relief from perfectionism, motivation for meaningful learning and advocacy, and increased communication and risk -taking. The role of therapy 14 children, -Study determined whether the presence of a therapy dog dogs in speed and ages 4-6 would affect the performance of a set of gross motor skills accuracy to tasks for preschoolers. Gee, N 2007 complete motor GM -Findings indicated that the "presence of a therapy dog skills tasks for served as an effective motivator for the children, who preschool children performed faster, but without compromising accuracy, in all tasks but one" (375). Child's Best Preschool -"Dogs can indirectly support children's cognitive learning" Friend -Is a Dog (12). Visitor a Good Fit SEIR. - A dog provides authentic opportunities for children to Glenn- for our Preschool? develop empathy, caretaking skills, and respect for living Applegate, things. K 2017 Therapy dogs I st grade -Anecdotal evidence regarding a pilot program in a primary making move front students school. Graf, T 2012 hospital to SLfR -Therapy dogs are successful because "they can't talk back" classroom (2). Children Reading Children under -Examined 48 studies and aimed to "determine the to Dogs: A 16 years scientific evidence base for the pedagogic effects of reading Systematic Review to dogs programmes" (3). of the Literature -"The papers evidenced improvements to the children's R behavioral processes... However, the quality of the evidence on which these conclusions are drawn is low" (13). -Recognizes the need for more "rigorous investigation," including longitudinal studies, increased sample sizes, and the use of standardized measures (17). Hall, S 2016 Canine Visitors: Ages 5-8 -Examines common objections that are raised to therapy The Influence of dogs in schools and hospitals: sanitation concerns, safety Therapy Dogs on considerations, allergies, cultural differences, fear of dogs. Jalongo, M 2004 Young Children's R -Includes recommendations for those who work with canine Learning and Well- visitor programs. Being in Classrooms and Hospitals "What are all these -This article gives guidelines and suggestions on dogs doing in implementing a reading education assistance dog program. school?" Using -AAT does not replace effective instruction on reading, it therapy dogs to provides a more structured and appealing alternative to 7alongo, M 2005 promote children's R "read by yourself' (155). reading practice -Referenced a 2002 study that showed AAT decreased absenteeism, increased the use of the library, and resulted in better grades. Reading to therapy 2nd grade -Recognized the need to assess impacts of AAI in schools, dogs improves students students experience greater stress, challenging social literacy attitudes in situations, and fear of negative feedback in the school second -grade R setting. students -Scores assessing academic reading attitudes increased significantly among the children who read aloud to dogs. Ko, M 2017 Behavioral effects -24 students -"The group became socially more homogenous due to of the presence of a (mean age: 6.7 decreased behavioral extremes, such as aggressiveness and dog in a classroom years) in hyperactivity. Also, formerly withdrawn individuals Austria became socially more interested" (147). -Effects were more pronounced in the boys than the girls. -Children paid more attention to the teacher. Kotrschal, K 2003 SE -Concluded that the presence of a dog in a classroom could positively stimulate social cohesion in children while improving teaching conditions. -Children seemed to assume responsibility for the dog by acting considerate and observing its needs. When Reading Ages varied -Goals of canine -assisted reading programs include Gets Ruff Canine- increasing reading fluency, increasing motivation to read, Assisted Reading providing encouragement for reluctant readers, and making Lane, H 2O13 Programs R reading fun. -3 case examples: primary classroom in Florida, public library in Colorado, dog scout in Maine. The Effect of an 3rd grade -Reading comprehension scores with dog group scored Animal -Assisted students (Avg. higher than other groups Reading Program age- 8 years), -3 groups- dog group, adult group, teddy bear group on the Reading identified as -Looked at reading rate, accuracy, and comprehension Rate, Accuracy and R poor readers Comprehension of Grade 3 Students: A Randomized Le Roux, M 2014 Control Stud Effects of Reading 45 children, -Reading aloud to an adult/therapy dog team tended to with Adult grades 2-5 increase children's scores on a test of oral reading fluency Tutor/Therapy Dog much more than reading aloud to peers. Teams on -"Given these early and high expectations for literacy, the Elementary pressure is on for larger numbers of young children to reach Students' Reading R unprecedented level of proficiency in reading" (4). Achievement and -The dog effect seemed to be more prominent and Attitudes consistent at grade 2 than at other grades, suggesting that such programs may be more effective in the early Levinson, E 2017 elementary grades (k-2), rather than later grades (3-6). What If Schools O'Farrell -"Researchers over the last decade have amassed a sobering Hired Dogs as Charter School, body of evidence showing the inability of stressed students Therapists? grades K-12 to learn" (2). -"The research supporting its effectiveness is sparse and largely anecdotal" (7). Malchik, A 2015 SE -Sejem is a facility dog that works in the charter school. -The therapy dog gives traumatized children an initial point of contact for comfort and safety. -Found that Sejera acts as a stress -reducer and a catalyst for helping students deal with stressful situations. Paws for Reading: 15 students in - Discussed the Paws for Reading Program located in An innovative second grade Wilmington, North Carolina. program using who tested -"Most participants improve their reading skills by at least dogs to help kids R below grade two grade levels of the course of an entire schools year" read better level in fluency (43). and reading -Several participants became mentors and introduced others tests to the program. Newlin, R 2003 Sit, Stay, Read: Preschool -Recommendations on how to implements a SitStayRead Improving Literacy children program Pillow- Skills Using Dogs! R -The averages of the students who participates scored Price, K 2014 significantly higher than both the district and state averages. Therapy Dogs' Ages 3-10 -Focused on the "Read to a Dog" program at Oshkosh Presence Steadily Public Library in Wisconsin Grows in Libraries R -""Five to six consecutive visits (with therapy dogs) will Schwartz, M 2012 raise them [children] two reading levels" (1). Man's Best Friend -Complete overview of R.E.A.D. program, including as a Reading varying perspectives (teachers, parents, students, and Shaw, D 2013 Facilitator R handlers) and implementation techniques. -Referenced study where all ten students in the R.E.A.D. program significantly improved their reading scores. Why every school Primary to -Referenced University of California study that found a should bring dogs college 12% boost in reading proficiency when kids read aloud to into the classroom R dogs for 10-15 minutes per week. -Recognized that 21 % of American adults read at or below a 5th grade level, Weller, C 2015 Summary of animal -assisted literacy programs: Literacy is defined as the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, compute, and communicate using visual, audible, and digital materials across disciplines and in any context (International Literacy Association n.d.). There is a mismatch between the literacy demands of society and the literacy standards of education. "The fact that millions of children in North America struggle with learning to read is well documented" (Friesen 2012, 103) Literacy is a necessary foundational skill in life, yet 21% of American adults read at or below a fifth -grade level (Weller 2015). To help remedy this widespread issue, literacy standards in primary classrooms have increased. "[liven these early and high expectations for literacy, the pressure is on for larger numbers of young children to reach unprecedented level of proficiency" (Levinson et al. 2017, 4). Educators are using alternative teaching methods to tackle new expectations, one method being the use of animal --assisted literacy programs. Intermountain Therapy Animals launched the R.E.A.D. program as the first comprehensive literacy program whose mission is to improve the literacy skills of children through the assistance of registered therapy teams as literacy mentors. Today, thousands of registered R.E.A.D. teams work throughout the US, Canada, United Kingdom, Italy, Finland, France, Sweden, South Africa, Spain, and beyond. The organization has over 3,000 volunteer teams registered, each passing a test regarding R.E.A.D's procedures and values in addition to passing the therapy dog certification exam (Shaw 2013). The implementation of each satellite program is varied, but most R.E.A.D. sessions span approximately 20-30 minutes while the students sit and read to a therapy dog with the handler present. A case study set in a Florida primary classroom recorded that participating students experienced tremendous gains in reading ability due to the inclusion of a therapy dog. The success of the program led to neighboring schools adopting similar practices. (Lane and Zavada 2013). In an effort to aid others in implementing animal -assisted literacy programs, Jalongo (2005) lists twelve best practices for those wanting to begin a R.E.A.D. program. Among the suggestions, Jalongo discusses the importance of gaining administrative support and creating an operating budget. In addition, Jalongo reiterates the significance of using a certified therapy dog along with combining the training of handlers with the expertise of teachers in order to maximize effectiveness. Therapy Dogs International launched a similar program named Tail Waggin' Tutors. The main objective of this program is to provide a relaxed and dog -friendly atmosphere, which allows students to practice the skill of reading (Therapy Dogs International 2017). Tail Waggin' Tutors is hosted in a multitude of schools and libraries around the United States. Comparably, Robin Newlin created the Paws for Reading program in Wilmington, North Carolina. Fifteen second grade students who tested below grade level in fluency and reading tests participated in the program. The results indicated that most participants improved their reading skills by at least two grade levels (Newlin 2003). Child reading to therapy dog at local Reading to Rover Program. (Photo taken by first author) Throughout the past three decades, multiple variations of animal -assisted literacy programs described above have formed across the world. A comprehensive list of these types of programs can be found in Friesen's (2010) article entitled "Potential for the Role of School -Based Animal -Assisted Literacy Mentoring Programs " along with the corresponding location and contact information. Summary v, f findings of increased reading and language skills: Hall, Gee, and Mills (2016) completed a systematic review of literature regarding the pedagogic effects of reading to dogs. While the review of 48 studies recognized the need for more rigorous investigation regarding the practice, the authors found that the "papers evidenced improvements to the children's behavioural processes, which may improve the environment in which reading is practiced, and therefore lead to better performance" (Hall, Gee, and Mills 2016, 13). The authors created the illustration below to demonstrate how reading to a dog may influence reading performance. Figure 1. An Illustration of hoar Reading to a Dog may Influence Reading performance Child reads to dog Likes. Dislikes, fcal, connects. fecls is distracted Uv supported dot Mond Impact on Reading to dolts Ele%mrion Arowsal is uniticeiv to be clTcc(ivc in ftnpro%ing read skills osrtrve associ��x Increases, DCCreascs= to do s Fenga e in Increase n3 Decrease in e with confidence ►%ith stress and itude to reading'. attitude to Anxiety g', rcadinw'. motivation assocat2d to$, and 105, and engagement ►ti ith rending tt ►vitis wtith rcadinlrb Freadingl� e in tmpsoved Improved a with iteadiI g titude to Reading Skills otivation 51;iltsagetttcnt ding' Improved Reading Shills Source: Hall, Sophie Susannah, Nancy R. Gee, and Daniel Simon Mills. "Children reading to dogs: A systematic review of the literature." PloS one 11, no. 2 (2016). e0149759. Based on the chart above and the review of research performed for this article, three categories of benefits that stem from reading to dogs will be discussed: reduction of stress/anxiety, improved attitudes/increased motivation, and improved reading rate, accuracy, and comprehension. Reduction ofstress/anxiety when reading: Ko (2017) recognized the lack of research regarding reading programs in schools, a setting where children may experience greater stress, challenging social situations, and fear of negative feedback. In 2012, Benz measured the cortisol levels of children before, during, and after stressful tasks; stress levels were lower when, the children interacted with the dog, suggesting the presence of a dog in an educational setting would help reduce anxiety levels caused by social pressures that exist within a classroom. Lane and Zavada (2013) wrote that many of her students in the aforementioned Florida case study were reluctant readers. Fortunately, "dogs cannot talk back" (Graf 2012, 2), reducing the fear of judgement. The dog acts as a supportive companion as students stumble on new words while reading increasingly challenging books. Lane and Zavada (2013) noted that students participating in the animal -assisted literacy program demonstrated increased self-confidence, oral fluency, and overall motivation to read. Friesen (2013) outlined five benefits of the animal -assisted literacy learning experience, including the benefit of unconditional acceptance and companionship. Similar to Ko's notation, Friesen discusses the social pressures students experience in school. These stresses disappear when reading to a dog since the dog automatically becomes a trusting friend who will listen to them. Improved altitudest increased motivation when reading: A second benefit of animal -assisted literacy programs (Friesen 2013) is the motivation for meaningful learning and advocacy that dogs provide. Friesen argues that students' interest in dogs can inspire long term intrinsic motivation. In the article entitled, "How a therapy dog may inspire student literacy engagement in elementary language arts classroom," Friesen (2009) described her classroom experiences with her therapy dog, Tango, who "served as the springboard for numerous other literary -based activities" (109). Students enjoyed reading to Tango so much that it led to the creation of other reading and writing projects that revolved around the topics of dogs. Therapy dogs can be used as a tool to spark the interest of students, especially those who may not enjoy school. Students are given a reason to be excited to read, try new words, and participate. Ko (2017) wrote about a pilot reading program in an afterschool program for second graders. Students read to a therapy dog for thirty minutes once a week. Authors used the Elementary Reading Attitude Survey (ERAS) to assess students' attitudes toward reading and found that the "scores assessing academic reading attitudes increased significantly among the children who read aloud to dogs" (2). The results suggested that animal -assisted literacy programs in an academic setting has the potential to provide motivation. Improved reading rate, accuracy, and comprehension: After completing the review of research, it is evident that the majority of the most recent studies have focused on the impact of animal -assisted literacy programs on reading rates, accuracy, and comprr,Axmsion. We suggest that this shift of focus is attributed to the pressure to produce quantitative evid�anze proving the positive effects of therapy dogs in classrooms that have been discussed. This field of research has been scrutinized due to the reliance on anecdotal evidence in earlier studies. Demonstrating an impact on reading rates and levels of comprehension is possible with accelerated reading tests and learning inventosips. Four studies are used to examine the effects of using therapy dogs to help children read. Pillow -Price, Yonts, and Stinson (2014) analyzed how the SitStayRead program in a preschool classroom helped students gain literacy skills. After being in the classroom for a year with a therapy dog named D.D., students took the Qualls Early Learning Inventory (QELI), a measure to gauge developmental progress of students. The averages of students coming out of the preschool classroom with D.D. that scored "developed" or "proficient" were significantly higher than both the district and state averages (Pillow -Price, Yonts, and Stinson 2014). The two charts below show the differences in scores. Figure 2: QELI Average Scores in Preschool Classrooms Chart A — 2011 QELI Average Scores (Percent that scored developed or proficient) September 2011 QEI;1 KindergartenGeneralLVxitteu Oral Scare lveragtc knowledge Language CommunicationTest District average 35`3fo 36% 37% State average 34% 23% 33% L.aura's 77% 1 66% 66%a Chart 6 — 2010 QELI Average Scores ftrcent that scored developed or proficient} September 2010 QELI Kindergarten Central Written Oral Test Score Averages knowledge Language Communication District average 48% 46% 44% State average 34% 23% 33% Laura's 1 81 % 81 °fin 723a Source: Pillow -Price, Kathy, Nikki Yonts, and Laura Stinson. "Sit, stay, read: Improving literacy skills using dogs." Dimensions of Early Childhood 42, no. 1 (2014): 5-9. Levinson et al. (2017) also assessed the effect of reading aloud to therapy dogs on students' oral communication. Forty-five students in grades two through five read aloud to therapy dog/handler teams thirty minutes per week for five weeks. One group read to therapy dogs while the second group read to peers. Levinson et al. (2017) found that "reading aloud to an adult/therapy dog team tended to increase children's scores on a test of oral reading fluency much more than reading to peers" (38). A particularly interesting observation that resulted from the study was that the dog effect seemed to be more prominent and consistent at grade two than at other grades (Levinson et al. 2017). This suggests that animal -assisted literacy programs may be more effective in earlier grades, such as kindergarten, first, and second, since this is a heightened developmental stage for children. The authors state, "Problems with reading are serious and pervasive worldwide" (Le Roux, Swartz, and Swart 2014, p.656). In an effort to find a solution, they designed a unique study to evaluate the effects of an animal -assisted reading program on the reading rate accuracy, and comprehension of 102 third grade students in South Africa. Students were identified as poor readers and were randomly assigned to one of the four following groups: control group, students who read to therapy dogs, students who read to an adult, and students who read to a teddy bear in the presence of an adult. The sessions lasted twenty minutes for ten weeks. "Students from the dog group read at a significantly higher reading comprehension age than the students in all three other groups" (667). The authors suggested that perhaps the calming effects of the therapy dogs allowed the students to relax and enjoy the reading sessions. The lack of judgement and criticism from the dogs may also explain the higher scores of the dog group. Friesen (2012) posited that animal -assisted literacy programs provide students opportunities to develop both constrained and unconstrained literacy skills. Constrained skills include letter knowledge, phonics, and concept of prints; these skills are less complex, more concrete, and are easier to teach. In contrast, unconstrained skills are more abstract and complex. Examples of unconstrained skills include vocabulary, written composition, comprehension, critical thinking, and problem solving. Friesen (2012) observed forty-five elementary students across rive animal -assisted literacy programs in Canada. During sessions, the handler would use the dog as a tool to teach the student unconstrained and constrained literacy skills. For example, the handler would ask the student to pause and pet the dog after reaching a comma in order to practice punctuation use. The children were also asked to translate the dog's actions into feelings, such as the meaning behind a dog wagging its tail. Friesen (2012) concluded that the animal -assisted literacy program "can contribute to a safe, playful, and caring learning environment in which children are able to gain valuable practice in constrained and unconstrained literary skills, and can provide children with authentic, meaningful, and unique literary skills" (107). Sociallemotionallhumane findings: Several articles have noted a number of positive social and emotional skills and behaviors associated with having a dog in the classroom. For example, increased social interaction was seen; children formed into social groups more often in the presence of a dog. There also seems to be an increase in the control of emotions and behaviors. One article mentioned a boy who stated "when I'm about to have a bad day, I just pet and hold J.D. to calm down" (Anderson 2007, 0). In a qualitative analysis of a dog present in a self-contained classroom of children with emotional disorders, Anderson and Olson (2006) concluded that that the dog's placement in the classroom contributed to the students overall emotional stability, students' attitudes towards school were improved, and that the students learned lessons in responsibility, respect, and empathy. In another case study of three children with disabilities, the presence of a therapy dog resulted in positive interactions and increased communication between the teacher and the children (Esteves and Stokes, 2006). Seetz (2013) also reported that in contrast to the control class, the class that had a "schooldog" visit once a week had significant improvements in their positive attitude towards school as well as their emotions related to learning. Group photo with two therapy dogs visiting classroom. (Photo taken by first author) Cambria (2010) described a Head Start classroom with children ages three to five years who had a resident therapy dog, Waco. Waco had his own cubby, was trained to help with clean-up and to open the door for recess. This particular classroom had children enrolled who were from low-income homes, some had incarcerated parents or lived with domestic violence. Waco was credited with providing stability and comfort. The teacher stated that "the whole feeling of the room is calmer" (1). The use of a therapy dog in classrooms like this one seems particularly beneficial given research suggesting that most children living in poverty suffer from stress that can hinder their success in school. Malchik (2015) discussed the presence of a facility dog, Sejera, in a k-12 charter school. The author noted the inability of stressed students to learn, and that research on this topic is "sparse and mostly anecdotal" (7). She asked students to write letters to Sejera expressing their feelings. One student wrote "She helps in so many ways helping students calm down when they are having a bad day" (3). One important conclusion of this article is that dogs alone cannot fix trauma, but can ease anxiety and be an "initial point of contact for comfort and safety." Kotrschal & Ortbayer (2003) introduced dogs to an elementary school in Vienna. They concluded that "the group became socially more homogenous due to decreased behavioral extremes, such as aggressiveness and hyperactivity" (147). Also, more withdrawn students became more socially interested, children paid more attention to the teacher, and the children were considerate to the dog and observed its needs. Results were more pronounced in boys than girls. In one anecdotal report of a pilot program in a primary school, the teacher reported that some parents ask for their children to be placed in her classroom "because it's the one with the dogs (Graf 2012, 2). Another school uses three therapy dogs in the classroom to "calm fears, relieve anxiety, and teach" life skills (Education World, 2013, 1). There are "lessons" for grades k-2, 3-6, and these dogs are even part of a plan to help students meet high school graduation requirements. Some of the lessons are "complain less, be thankful more, judge less, accept more, and growl less, smile more" (2). Chandler (2001) and other studies mentioned the benefits of integrating a therapy dog or other animal in a classroom setting including helping children to develop humane skills by incorporating kindness and compassion, witnessing praising or disciplining the dog, practicing loyalty and responsibility, and an increased understanding of how to coexist with animals while gaining knowledge about animals and how to care for them (nurturance). Student providing water to therapy dog during visit to classroom. (Photo takers by first author) Gross motor skills: Gee, Harris & Johnson (2007) completed a case study which included 14 children, ages four to six years old, who were in a classroom with two miniature poodles. The children were able to complete ten tasks related to locomotion, stability, and manipulation faster when the dog was present. The dogs modeled the tasks, which included weaving around cones, walking on a balance beam, a high jump, rolling over and crawling, and an underhand toss to the dog. The authors concluded that the presence of a dog increased the children's motivation to complete motor skill tasks. Suggestions for implementing therapy dogs in classrooms: In order to maximize the effectiveness of animal -assisted literacy sessions, Friesen (2012) suggests that literacy mentors include activities outside of reading. For example, students can write a speech and deliver it to the therapy dog or students can place sticky notes on the dog in order to learn body parts. This is similar to students writing letters to a dog, as previously mentioned. Friesen (2013) lists five suggestions for working with young children in animal -assisted literacy programs; among the suggestions are understanding each child on an individual level and letting the child lead. Reading to a therapy dog allows students to have one on one time with a therapy dog and handler. The session can be tailored to the student's reading level and the student's interests. Allowing the student to lead the session and pick which book to read gives the child a sense of freedom and ownership, the flexibility also encourages them to express their creativity and intellect. Anderson (2007) suggested that incorporating a dog into the classroom takes thorough planning. Steps suggested include: a) conduct preliminary meetings, b) select the appropriate dog (preferably a certified therapy dog who is owned by the teacher or another individual who will be present who understands the dog's behavioral patterns), c) establish classroom policies and procedures, d) obtain written consent, e) provide information to school staff members. Addressing concerns: As stated by Glenn -Applegate and Hall (2017), bringing a dog into a classroom requires careful consideration. They asked families, school staff, and a veterinarian four questions: a) would a dog benefit the (preschool) program? b) who would be responsible for the dog? c) do any children have allergies or a fear of dogs? d) are all staff in favor of having a dog? They also consulted with the program's insurance agent, the lawyer at the university, and the national accrediting body, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), who replied that they would need to keep the dog's immunization records on file and that children and staff would need to follow handwashing procedures after interacting with the dog. Bacon refers to the 2002 California school survey which showed that only 20% of those surveyed used dogs in their school. However, 93% of the respondents stated that they would be interested in dog programs if their concerns were addressed. The top three concerns identified were legal implications and liability (50.50/6), supervision (43.3%), and allergic reactions (40.2%u). Jalongo (2005) also addresses concerns in the list of twelve steps to implement a reading education assistance program. In order to prevent sanitation objections, the author notes that registered therapy dogs have regular check-ups and handlers are required to provide proof of vaccination. Jalongo emphasizes the need to train handlers, educators, and students in protecting the therapy dogs' safety and well-being. Finally, the majority of the articles highlighted the importance of using a certified therapy dog when implementing programs. Limitations and future research: Several limitations were noted by the authors of the reviewed articles. Beetz (2013) points out that "different dogs may have different effects" (6). The author also implicates that a higher frequency and longer duration will yield stronger results. Brelsford et al (2017) conducted a systematic review of literature relating to animal -assisted interventions conducted in educational settings. Auer reviewing twenty-five papers, the authors recognized the need for further research in order to quantify the factors regarding findings, a common critique to research in this field. The review of literature expressed that future studies need to incorporate a higher quantity of randomized controlled trials with appropriate control groups (Brelsford et al. 2017). This recommendation was also found in Hall, Gee, and Mills' 2016 systematic review of literature regarding children reading to dogs and they identified the need for researchers to perform longitudinal studies that consist of increased sample sizes and the use of standardized measures. Finally, Bassette and Taber -Doughty (2013) expressed the need to expand beyond studying behavioral measures and also focus on researching academic effects of long-term dog reading programs. Conclusion Based on the review of thirty articles on the benefits of therapy dogs in classrooms, there appears to be many benefits, both anecdotal and empirical. More empirical research studies have been published in the last ten years. There is strong support for increased confidence, literacy skills and actual reading scores when children read to dogs. Additionally, much evidence supports the emotional and social benefits of children interacting with a dog in the classroom. One study was found that showed improved motivation and gross motor skills when a dog modeled these skills. Several authors gave helpful suggestions for starting a therapy dog program in a school setting. Although initial concerns were noted, with careful consideration and communication with all involved, these concerns can be addressed. Limitations of current research have been identified, and more empirical studies with larger sample sizes, control versus experimental groups, and more long term studies will strengthen this body of work. After completing the review, it is evident that the benefits of utilizing a therapy dog within a classroom outweigh the reservations. References Anderson, Katherine L., and Myrna R. Olson. "The value of a dog in a classroom of children with severe emotional disorders." Anthrozo& 19, no. 1 (2006): 35-49. Anderson, Katherine L. "Who Let the Dog in? How to Incorporate a Dog into a Self -Contained Classroom." Teaching Exceptional Children Plus 4, no. 1 (2007): nl. Bacon, Charlotte. "Bringing Therapy Dogs to Your School." Charlotte's Litter. 2014. http://charlotteslitter.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Educator Resource.pdf. Bassette, Laura A., and Teresa Taber -Doughty. "The effects of a dog reading visitation program on academic engagement behavior in three elementary students with emotional and behavioral disabilities: A single case design." In Child & Youth Care Foram, vol. 42, no. 3, pp. 239-256. Springer US, 2013. Beetz, Andrea, Henri Julius, Bennis Turner, and Kurt Kotrschal. "Effects of social support by a dog on stress modulation in male children with insecure attachment." Frontiers in psychology 3 (2012). Beetz, Andrea. "Socio-emotional correlates of a schooldog-teacher-team in the classroom." Frontiers in psychology 4 (2013). Brelsford, Victoria L., Kerstin Meints, Nancy R. Gee, and Karen Pfeffer. "Animal -Assisted Interventions in the ClassroomA Systematic Review." .International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 14, no. 7 (2017): 669. Cambria, Nancy. "Therapeutic dog gets high praise for his role in preschool classroom." Stltoday.com. June 27, 2010. http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/therapeutic-dog-gets-high-praise- for-his-role-in-preschool/article_09fa1564-efb7-5e70-bba3-131 a76da4b0c.htm1. Chandler, Cynthia. "Animal -Assisted Therapy in Counseling and School Settings. ERIC/CABS Digest." (2001). Esteves, Stephanie Walters, and Trevor Stokes. "Social effects of a dog's presence on children with disabilities." Anthrozoos 21, no. 1 (2008): 5-15. Fine, Aubrey H., ed. Handbook on animal -assisted therapy: Foundations and guidelines for animal - assisted interventions. Academic Press, 2015.. Friesen, Lori. "How a therapy dog may inspire student literacy engagement in the elementary language arts classroom." LEARNing Landscapes 3, no. 1 (2009): 105-122. Friesen, Lori. "Exploring animal -assisted programs with children in school and therapeutic contexts." Early Childhood Education Journal 37, no. 4 (2010): 261-267, Friesen, Lori. "Potential for the role of school -based animal -assisted literacy mentoring programs." Language and Literacy 12, no. 1 (2010): 21. Friesen, Lori, and Esther Delisle. "Animal -assisted literacy: A supportive environment for constrained and unconstrained learning." Childhood Education 88, no. 2 (2012): 102-107. Friesen, Lori. "The gifted child as cheetah: A unique animal -assisted literacy program." The Latham Letter 34, no. 1(2013): 6-10. Gee, Nancy R., Shelly L. Harris, and Kristina L. Johnson. "The role of therapy dogs in speed and accuracy to complete motor skills tasks for preschool children." Anthrozoos 20, no. 4 (2007): 375-386. Glenn -Applegate, Katherine, and Kellie Hall. "Child's Best Friend -Is a Dog Visitor a Good Fit for our Preschool?" Teaching Young Children10, no. 2 (January 2017): 11-13. Graf, Tyler. "Therapy dogs making move from hospital to classroom." The Columbian. December 09, 2012. http://www.columbian.com/news/2012/dec/09/therapy-dogs-go-from-hospital-to- classrooml. Hall, Sophie Susannah, Nancy R. Gee, and Daniel Simon Mills. "Children reading to dogs: A systematic review of the literature." PloS one 11, no. 2 (2016). e0149759. Jalongo, Mary Renck, Terri Astorino, and Nancy Bombay. "Canine visitors: The influence of therapy dogs on young children's learning and well-being in classrooms and hospitals." Early Childhood Education Journal 32, no. 1 (2004). 9-16. Jalongo, Mary Renck. ""What are all these Dogs Doing at School?". Using Therapy Dogs to Promote Children's Reading Practice." Childhood Education81, no. 3 (2005): 152-158. Ko, Melody. "Reading to Therapy Dogs Improves Literacy Attitudes in Second -Grade Students." Tufts Now. May 31, 2017. http:/lnow.tufts.edu/news-releases/reading-therapy-dogs-improves-literacy- attitudes-second-grade-students-0. Kotrschal, Kurt, and Brita Ortbauer. "Behavioral effects of the presence of a dog in a classroom." Anthrozoos 16, no. 2 (2003): 147-159. Lane, Holly B., and Shannon DW Zavada. "When Reading Gets Ruff: Canine -Assisted Reading Programs." The Reading Teacher 67, no. 2 (2013): 87-95. Le Roux, Marieanna C., Leslie Swartz, and Estelle Swart. "The effect of an animal -assisted reading program on the reading rate, accuracy and comprehension of grade 3 students: A randomized control study." In Child & Youth Care Forum, vol. 43, no. 6, pp. 655-673. Springer US, 2014. "Lessons Learned from Dogs in the Classroom." Education World: Teachers Lead Improvement at State Street School. http://www.educationworld.com/a—admin/admin/admin559.shtml. Levinson, Edward M., Melanee Vogt, William F. Barker, Mary Renck Jalongo, and Pat Van Zandt. "Effects of reading with adult tutor/therapy dog teams on elementary students' reading achievement and attitudes." Society & Animals 25, no. 1 (2017): 38-56. Malchik, Antonia. "What If Schools Hired Dogs As Therapists? — Bright." Bright. July 09, 2015. https:librightreads.com/can-a-dog-at-school-help-struggling-kids-7317a8eff20d. Newlin, Robin. "Paws for Reading: An innovative program uses dogs to help kids read better." School Library Journal. June 1, 2003. http:llwww.slj.com/2003/06"'literacy/paws-for-reading-an- innovative-program-uses-dogs-to-help-kids-read-better/. Pet Partners. 2017. https:llpetpartners.org/about-us/petpartners-story Pillow -Price, Kathy, Nikki Yonts, and Laura Stinson. "Sit, stay, read: Improving literacy skills using dogs." Dimensions of Early Childhood 42, no. 1 (2014). 5-9. Ryan, Holly McLean. "The Use of Dogs in California Public Schools: Current Use, Support for, Potential Concerns, and Educator Familiarity with Potential Benefits". The Graduate College University of Wisconsin -Stout, Wisconsin (2002). Schwartz, M. "Therapy dogs' presence steadily grows in libraries." Library Journal (2012). Shaw, Donita Massengill. "Man's best friend as a reading facilitator." The Reading Teacher 66, no. 5 (2013): 365-371. Therapy Dogs International. 2017. http://tdi-dog.org/About.aspx?Page=Mission+Statement+and+History Weller, Chris. "Why every school should bring dogs into the classroom." Business Insider. August 21, 2015. http:l/www.businessinsider.com/why-every-school-should-bring-dogs-into-the-ciassroom- 2015-8. "Why Literacy?" International Literacy Association. 2017. htips:l/www.literacyworldwide.org/why- literacy