Loading...
AHA - 2026/01/27ANAHEIM HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 27, 2026 The Anaheim Housing Authority regular meeting of January 27, 2026 was called to order at 5:51 P.M. in the Council Chamber of Anaheim City Hall located at 200 S. Anaheim Blvd., in joint session with the Anaheim City Council. The meeting notice, agenda, and related materials were duly posted on January 22, 2026. MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: Chairperson Ashleigh E. Aitken and Authority Members Carlos A. Leon, Ryan Balius, Natalie Rubalcava, Norma Campos Kurtz, Kristen M. Maahs, and Natalie Meeks. City Manager Jim Vanderpool, City Attorney Robert Fabela, and Secretary Theresa Bass ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDAS: No additions/deletions related to the Anaheim Housing Authority agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTS (all agenda items): Kenneth Batiste commented on the high cost of living in the City. He shared that the City lacks housing and housing protections. He commented on recent immigration enforcement efforts in the City. He called on the City Council to support rent control initiatives and protect Anaheim renters and residents. Janis Heckel, Executive Director of the Anaheim Community Foundation (ACF), spoke in support of Item No. 1. She shared that the ACF is grateful for the Council's time, consideration, and continued commitment to the residents of Anaheim. She explained that the property located at 883 S. Anaheim Boulevard represents hope, stability, and opportunity, and allows the ACF to establish a permanent home and hub where nonprofit organizations could serve the community She noted that the space would become a space for collaboration, problem -solving, and compassion. She added that approval of the lease would ease the economic burden for nonprofits to focus on helping people. R. Joshua Collins suggested implementing a day fine system similar to other countries. He noted that the City of Los Angeles would be implementing an income -based traffic fine system in 2026. He explained that the traditional methods are burdensome to income -restricted individuals, which could lead to job loss, license suspension, missed payments, and late fees. Paul Hyek recommended a group to assist with securing employment for the homeless population. Marc Herbert expressed concerns with Housing Authority Agenda Item No. 1, noting that the Housing and Community Development Commission recommended additional review before approval. He noted inequities in police shootings involving Latinos compared to overall shootings in the Resort District. He requested that hotel owners meet with the Police Department to discuss a potential policy. He questioned the lack of follow-up on the JL Group report and the lack of subsequent investigations into the allegations in the report. He requested that City Manager Vanderpool be fired. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 2 of 9 Secretary Theresa Bass reported that no electronic public comments were received related to the Housing Authority agenda. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS: Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz reported that the City has more than 350,000 residents, larger than other metropolitan cities, and a diverse and wide range of residents. She expressed her pride in representing District 4. She added that District 4 includes the most impacted neighborhoods in the City. She reported that the Resort community brought holiday cheer to neighborhoods with the D4 Toy Drive in the Philadelphia/Olive, Guinida Lane, Hermosa Village, Clifton/Philadelphia, the Golden Skies Mobile Home Park, and Spinnaker/Ponderosa neighborhoods. She reported that the toy drive in the Spinnaker/Ponderosa neighborhood was postponed and rescheduled to the next day due to ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) activity and safety concerns for the residents. She thanked Madres Comunidad de Ponderosa for reserving the space for the toy drive and the parents for ensuring the safety of the children while participating in the activities and selecting toys. Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz thanked the hotels and businesses for being good neighbors to the community during Christmas, including the Best Western Plus Anaheim Inn, Desert Palms, Castle Inn & Suites, The Anaheim Hotel, The Pizza Press, Sheraton Park, Karmel Shuttle, Tropicana, Wyndham, Anaheim Majestic Garden, Best Western Plus Pavilions, Best Western Plus Stovall's Inn, Del Sol Inn, Westin, SafeCo Parking, Grand Legacy at the Park, OCHLA, Peacock Suites, Best Western Park Place, JW Marriott, Cartona Inn, Alpine Inn, Anaheim AeroLink, Hotel Indigo, Hyatt House, Courtyard Anaheim, Sonesta Anaheim, Alamo Inn & Suites, Camelot Inn & Suites, Hyatt Place, Parking Company of America, Sonesta ES Suites, Visit Anaheim, ATN, and the Anaheim Community Foundation (ACF). She shared that the hotel employees have shared their pride in helping the community and noted that many employees live in the neighborhoods. She highlighted the owner of SafeCo Parking for reaching out to contribute. She noted that Visit Anaheim was present at each toy distribution and volunteered to help hand out toys. She shared that ACF was the recipient of all the donations and assisted with shopping for toys. Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz thanked City staff for their assistance with the toy drives, particularly Community Services. She noted that Director of Community Services Sjany Larson -Cash supported the efforts and thanked her. She thanked City Manager Jim Vanderpool for coordinating with departments for participation at events and meetings to ensure that issues were addressed. Authority Member/Council Member Maahs acknowledged the community's efforts at the 2nd Annual Community Resource Fair at Katella High School. She thanked Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz for inviting her to participate. She shared that many organizations were invited to connect students and families to resources. She acknowledged the passing of Alex Pretti in Minnesota. She reported ICE presence around Katella High School. She highlighted the community's involvement in protecting students. Authority Member/Council Member Maahs credited the school staff and City staff for jumping into action. She acknowledged the impact that immigration enforcement measures have had on the community and on City staff. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava acknowledged the family of Albert Arzola and offered her thoughts and prayers to the family. She recognized the City's efforts and changes since 2012 on officer training and the conduct of independent investigations. She shared that the Orange County District Attorney's Office and the Office of Independent Review are involved with investigations. She added that the Police Review Board was designed and implemented Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 3 of 9 following 2012 and stated that the incident is not taken lightly by the dais and affirmed a commitment to due process. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava displayed photos of a vigil held in response to the ongoing ICE enforcement. She recognized the community leaders who organized the event, including Yesenia Rojas, and Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Leon and Authority Member/Council Member Maahs, for their attendance. She noted that the City Council quickly acted following the first reports of ICE enforcement in the City, including the creation of Anaheim Contigo. She emphasized that the Police Department serves the City and community and does not assist with federal immigration enforcement. She also acknowledged the passing of Alex Pretti in Minnesota. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava shared that during her tenure in office, she has noticed clear progress under City Manager Jim Vanderpool's leadership. She reported that the City has made measurable advances in addressing homelessness, the recruitment for a highly -qualified Chief of Police, Disneyland Forward, OCVIBE, responsible steps to balance the budget and pay off bonds, expanded library hours, strengthened relationships with non -profits, established a Housing Trust, and the Strategic Plan. She shared that the accomplishments reflect steady and competent leadership and display a commitment to the community. She expressed her continued support for City Manager Vanderpool and expressed her gratitude for City Manager Vanderpool's commitment to the City. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Leon acknowledged the ongoing federal immigration enforcement efforts and the impacts on the community. He shared that he continues to look forward to working with residents, stakeholders, and his Council colleagues to move forward with compassion in the community [ provided his comments in Spanish]. Vice- Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Leon reported that he partnered with Frank Garcia and La Casa Garcia for a toy distribution at Servite High School. He shared that partnerships included United Across Borders, Neutral Ground, and volunteers across the community. He shared that those moments serve as a reminder of the unity and strength in the community. Vice- Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Leon thanked Chief Cid for visiting a neighborhood in District 2 to participate in the Rosca de Reyes tradition. He thanked all of the neighbors who attended and the neighborhood leaders for organizing the event. He highlighted the Orange County Clerk - Recorder's Mobile Passport Clinic at Magnolia High School. He shared that many families were assisted in a safe space and shared that his office would be working with the County's office to schedule more in the community. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Leon announced the grand re -opening of Anaheim High School's Cook Auditorium. He highlighted the Anaheim Union High School District's dedication to the performing arts and to students. He thanked Congressman Lou Correa for securing funding for the project. He highlighted the NAMM show held at the Convention Center. He noted that the show gathers tens of thousands of attendees and provides an economic boost to the City. He thanked the Convention Center staff who worked the event and contributed to the successful event. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Leon announced that registration is open for the third annual Youth Leadership Summit & Expo event on Saturday, March 7th. He announced that students can learn about leadership, advocacy, and community involvement opportunities. He requested to adjourn the meeting in memory of Joel Esparza. He shared that Mr. Esparza leaves behind his wife, four children, and four grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable pride and joy. He added that Mr. Esparza was dedicated to helping others through organizations he led, including the Brown Descents Car Club and individual acts of kindness. He shared that he touched many lives and helped people find their footing after their most difficult moments. Authority Member/Council Member Balius echoed Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava's comments regarding City Manager Jim Vanderpool. He shared that during his time, he recognizes the stability that City Manager Vanderpool provides to Anaheim. Authority Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 4 of 9 Member/Council Member Balius highlighted Anaheim Fire and Rescue's Engine 1 following his ride -along. He shared that he witnessed great professionalism by the Fire Department during a house fire incident. He highlighted their teamwork and their care for residents. Chairperson/Mayor Aitken thanked Chief Cid for attending introduction meetings with the community. She shared that Chief Cid has committed to leading with integrity and addressing issues with transparency. She acknowledged the community's concerns. She encouraged the public to interact with officers and the Chief at community events and meetings. She highlighted two upcoming meetings with the Chief and thanked him for being available to answer the community's questions. Chairperson/Mayor Aitken reported that she, Authority Member/Council Member Balius, Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz, and the City Manager visited Sacramento to discuss the state of the Surplus Land Act with elected officials. She addressed concerns about transparency on Angel Stadium and noted that monthly updates are provided during the City Manager's Update. She shared that she would be requesting a Master Site Plan for the area. She explained that the outcome of the property would be considered with a lot of community input and benefits. CITY MANAGER'S UPDATE: City Manager Jim Vanderpool announced that Anaheim's Community Open House has returned. He invited residents to attend an upcoming open house in their District from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. He explained that the open houses are not formal presentations and do not require attendees to arrive on time. He shared that topics at the meetings would include district -specific issues and Citywide interests. He explained that the open houses offer opportunities to connect with City leaders and staff one-on-one to ask questions and discuss neighborhood priorities. He reported that additional information could be found on the City's social media and website. City Manager Vanderpool reported that the NAMM Show drew more than 50,000 music industry professionals, artists and more to Anaheim the week prior. He shared that the NAMM show is the City's largest and most significant, bringing people from around the world to stay in hotel rooms and enjoy all Anaheim has to offer. He added that the visitors in turn, provide funding for all we do as a City. He congratulated the Anaheim Convention Center and the City's hospitality partners for another great NAMM. At 7:52 P.M., Mayor/Chairperson Aitken recessed the Anaheim City Council to address the Anaheim Housing Authority agenda. CONSENT CALENDAR: The Consent Calendar was considered with Vice -Chairperson Leon pulling Item No. 1 for separate discussion and consideration. MOTION: Authority Member Meeks moved to approve the balance of the consent calendar as presented, in accordance with reports, certifications, and recommendations furnished each Authority Member and as listed on the consent calendar, seconded by Vice -Chairperson Leon. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Chairperson Aitken and Authority Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. AHA177 2. Approve minutes of the Housing Authority meetings of November 4, 2025 and December 16, 2025. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 5 of 9 END OF CONSENT CALENDAR: D155 1. Approve a Lease Agreement with the Anaheim Community Foundation, in the annual rental amount of $1.00, to provide administrative office space at 883 S. Anaheim Blvd., for a term commencing February 1, 2026 and terminating January 31, 2030 with two one-year optional renewals, and authorize the Executive Director, or designee, to execute and implement the terms of the Lease Agreement. Executive Director of the Anaheim Housing Authority Grace Ruiz-Stepter reported that the Housing Authority owns a single property located at 883 S. Anaheim Boulevard. She explained that the site includes an existing building that is currently vacant. She added that the property was transferred to the Authority following the State's dissolution of local redevelopment agencies, at which time the City of Anaheim designated the Authority as its Housing Successor Agency. She reported that since acquiring the property, the Authority has continued to invest in its upkeep and maintenance to preserve the building and site while plans for long-term housing development are considered. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that the Anaheim Community Foundation (ACF) is a locally based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on strengthening the Anaheim community through philanthropic support, civic engagement, and partnerships with local nonprofits, residents, and businesses. She shared that ACF administers grants and scholarships, provides direct emergency assistance to Anaheim residents, and supports community -focused initiatives such as Concerts in the Park, Pearson Park's Summer Nights Under the Stars, and Cops for Kids. She stated that ACF's work emphasizes youth development, arts and culture, housing stability, and workforce readiness, and is carried out in close coordination with City programs and community stakeholders. She explained that providing ACF with temporary use of the property would allow the organization to operate functional office space to administer these programs and continue delivering services that directly benefit Anaheim residents. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter added that to facilitate this temporary use, staff evaluated the proposed lease under applicable state surplus land requirements. She noted that Senate Bill 747 amended the Surplus Land Act to clarify that leases with a term of 15 years or less, inclusive of extension options, are exempt from the Act's disposition requirements. She shared that the statutory change enables public agencies to lease underutilized property for interim community -serving uses while continuing to advance long-term affordable housing objectives. She reported that consistent with the framework, the proposed Lease Agreement would commence on February 1, 2026, subject to Council approval, with an initial term through January 31, 2030, and two one-year extension options that could extend the lease through January 31, 2032. She added that in recognition of the substantial public benefit provided by ACF's community programs, staff recommends a nominal annual rent of $1. She noted that ACF would be responsible for ongoing property and landscape maintenance, ensuring the property remains in good condition during the lease term. DISCUSSION: In response to Vice -Chairperson Leon, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter stated that the property is a vacant home. She added that the property had been occupied by The Illumination Foundation until a few months prior. She reported that the lease included similar terms and the same dollar amount. Authority Member Rubalcava inquired if the item had been reviewed by the Housing and Community Development Commission. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 6 of 9 Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that the item was presented to the Commission and received questions regarding the item. She added that she spoke to the Chair regarding the item and the item was being advanced to the Authority. She noted that the Commission's questions would be addressed during the Authority presentation. Authority Member Rubalcava expressed concerns of the process and how items are presented to the Commission prior to Authority consideration. She requested additional details on the Commission's questions. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter explained that the questions were centered around the need for ACF, staffing size for the property, and the rental amount determination. Authority Member Rubalcava expressed concern that the Authority would be overriding the Commission's potential questions. She requested that the Commission review the item prior to the Authority taking action. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that the Commission's questions were addressed. She explained that the urgency is due to the ACF's investment in the property. She added that each day the building is unoccupied, there is a risk of potential trespassing. MOTION: Authority Member Rubalcava moved to continue the item to allow for review by the Housing and Community Development Commission. DISCUSSION: Chairperson Aitken acknowledged Authority Member Rubalcava's concerns. She expressed concern about delaying the item. Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development Andy Nogal explained that several questions were raised and addressed. He added that if the item posed a timing issue, it would be presented to the Housing Authority with answers to the Commission's questions. He noted that staff could return with an informational item to the Commission to address any unanswered questions. In response to Chairperson Aitken, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter stated that the Commission serves as an advisory body. She added that each commissioner expressed support for ACF and their use of the property. She reported that their questions were related to determinations for other property and the rental amount. She shared that Housing Authority properties would be used by community -serving nonprofits and provided an example of the Anaheim Ballet's lease. She reiterated the Commission's support of ACF. Chairperson Aitken inquired about The Illumination Foundation's use of the property. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter responded that they leased the property for approximately eight years. Chairperson Aitken requested additional information on the condition for ACF, with the City's approval, to sublease the property. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter explained that the Authority would need to evaluate the subcontractor. She shared that staff had advised that ACF solely use the property and adhere to the neighborhood standards outlined in the lease. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 7 of 9 In response to Chairperson Aitken, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that ACF confirmed their primary use of the space; however, they are looking to grow. She noted that, in the event other space is available, ACF would notify staff. In response to Chairperson Aitken, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that the City has leased other properties to nonprofits, with the intent that they are Anaheim -centric. Vice -Chairperson requested clarification on whether the Housing and Community Development Commission had a quorum to vote on the item. Deputy Director Nogal confirmed that the Commission had a quorum. In response to Vice -Chairperson Leon, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter explained the questions centered around the Angel Stadium lease. She noted that staff did outline that the Housing Authority authorizes leases for non -profits. In response to Vice -Chairperson Leon, Deputy Director Nogal reported that the property is an approximately 6,000 to 7,000 square -foot single-family lot converted for commercial use. Vice -Chairperson Leon requested additional information on ACF's staffing level. Executive Director of the Anaheim Community Foundation, Janis Heckel, reported that there are three staff. She noted that they host community meetings that include up to 30 non -profits. She explained that the collaborative meetings with non -profits would be held in that space. In response to Vice -Chairperson Leon, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that any Housing Authority -related items and Community Development Block Grants are presented to the Commission. She explained that the Commission recommends or denies items, asks clarifying questions, and provides feedback to the governing body. Authority Member Kurtz requested clarification on whether the Commission received information that the property use would be strictly reserved for non -profits. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter explained that the Commission requested to continue the item for additional discussion. She shared that staff is committed to returning to the Commission to outline all of the City's properties and their use. In response to Authority Member Kurtz, Deputy Director Nogal confirmed that the Commission was supportive of ACF. He explained that the concern was due to the Angels Stadium lease. He noted staff's commitment to returning to the Commission to answer additional questions about ACF's operations. In response to Authority Member Meeks, Deputy Director Nogal stated that the Commission was aware of the time sensitivity. He explained that staff would confirm with ACF on whether the item was required to be presented to the Authority immediately. Authority Member Meeks inquired about the potential delays if the item were presented to the Commission. She expressed concern that the Commission did not take action on the item. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that the item could be presented to the Commission. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 8 of 9 She explained that the item was presented to the Authority due to the Commission Chair's request to continue. In response to Authority Member Meeks, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter stated that subtenants would require the City's approval. Authority Member Meeks supported a continuance of the item to allow for the Housing and Community Development Commission to review the item. MOTION: Authority Member Rubalcava moved to continue the item, seconded by Authority Member Meeks. DISCUSSION: Authority Member Rubalcava expressed her support for the ACF. She explained her concerns are centered around policy and providing publicly owned land. She referenced her tenure on the Housing and Community Development Commission, noting that it is a Form 700 commission with a stipend. She explained that she received feedback that the item was rushed and that the process to move forward was determined by the Chair. She highlighted the importance of the Commission and its review and award of grant funds to nonprofits. She thanked Authority Member Meeks for supporting the continuance. She reiterated her support for ACF. In response to Authority Member Balius, Chairperson Aitken noted the agenda posting timeframes to place the item on the next meeting agenda. City Attorney Robert Fabela advised that a special meeting agenda can be posted with a 24- hour notice. Authority Member Balius expressed his appreciation for the City commissioners. He shared that based on his experience as a Parks and Recreation Commissioner, many non -profits leased City facilities for $1.00 per year. In response to Authority Member Rubalcava, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that staff would contact the commissioners to determine a quorum for a special meeting. Authority Member Rubalcava commented on the ACF's current location and lease. In response to Chairperson Aitken, Secretary Bass confirmed a City Council meeting would be held on February 241n Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting would be on February 41n In response to Authority Member Rubalcava, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter shared that the concerns are potential break-ins at the property. In response to Chairperson Aitken, City Attorney Fabela advised that the current motion provides staff flexibility to return earlier than February 24tn, February 241n, or later if the item is delayed. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of January 27, 2026 Page 9 of 9 MOTION: Authority Member Rubalcava moved to continue the item to a future Council meeting, seconded by Authority Member Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Chairperson Aitken and Authority Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct, without objection, Chairperson Aitken adjourned the meeting of the Anaheim Housing Authority at 8:20 P.M. Respectfully submitted, rest Bass, CMC Se retary, Anaheim Housing Authority