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03/24/2026ANAHEIM CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 24, 2026 The regular meeting of March 24, 2026 was called to order at 2:31 P.M. in the Council Chamber of Anaheim City Hall, located at 200 South Anaheim Boulevard. The meeting notice, agenda, and related material were duly posted on March 19, 2026. MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Ashleigh E. Aitken and Council Members Carlos A. Leon, Ryan Balius, Norma Campos Kurtz, and Natalie Meeks. Council Members Natalie Rubalcava and Kristen M. Maahs joined the meeting during Closed Session. STAFF PRESENT: Interim City Manager Greg Garcia, 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 2:31 p.m., Mayor Aitken recessed to closed session for consideration of the following: 1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of the California Government Code Section 54956.9: One potential case 2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION (Subdivision (d)(1) of Section 54956.9 of the California Government Code) Name of Case: J.A.P.T., by and through his Guardian ad Litem Tania Tanda-Soto v. City of Anaheim, et al., USDC Case No. 8:26-cv-00433-DOC-ADS 3. 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) American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (General Management, Professional/Technical, and Confidential Units) and (2) Teamsters, Local 952 At 4:10 p.m., Mayor Aitken reconvened the Anaheim City Council. MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Ashleigh E. Aitken and Council Members Carlos A. Leon, Ryan Balius, Natalie Rubalcava, Norma Campos Kurtz, Kristen M. Maahs, and Natalie Meeks PUBLIC COMMENTS ON WORKSHOP: None WORKSHOP: Fiscal Year 2025-26 Mid -year Budget Update Finance Director Deborah A. Moreno reported that the adopted budget of $2.4 billion provides strategic core services that strengthen our neighborhoods and support our community. She stated that the budget is comprised of many different sources of funding. She shared that the City's Enterprise Funds are used to fund operations for our City's Water and Electric Utilities, solid waste City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 2 of 54 and sanitation, golf courses and the Convention, Sports and Entertainment Venues and Special Revenue funds are primarily funds awarded to us by other governmental agencies for restricted programs such as the Housing Authority, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Gas Tax and Roads, and Workforce Development. She reported that Capital Project Funds are also primarily funded by other governmental agencies for restricted projects such as street improvements and infrastructure; Internal Service Funds are used to track costs for internal services such as employee benefits and insurance, fleet and facility maintenance and replacement, and information and communication services; and Restricted Funds and Other General Purpose Funds represent only 5% of the City's overall budget and have similar restrictions in how they are spent. Director Moreno added that the remaining budget is the General Fund, or 22% of the total budget. She stated that the bulk of discretionary funding comes from the General Fund and is used to fund core services. Director Moreno presented the General Fund Five -Year Forecast. She reported that General Fund sources, less the use of bond proceeds, were $611.1 million and uses were $675 million, a deficit of $63.9 million. She stated that in March 2021, the City Council approved a plan to issue deficit bonds of $138 million to address the structural deficit. She explained that the bonds were initially projected to last two years and were intended to balance the budget, preventing dramatic budget cuts. She added that when the Resort reopened, revenues rebounded more quickly than expected, and a portion of the bond proceeds remains, allowing us to balance the structural deficit. She noted that the adopted budget included the planned use of $63.9 million in one-time revenues, including what is left of these bond proceeds. She reported that the adopted 5-year forecast included Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) growth of 2.4% in FY 2025/26 slightly increasing to 3% in the out years. She stated that Sales Tax revenues were projected to grow 2.5% in the current year and Property Tax revenues were estimated to grow 4.1 %, with both leveling to 2-3%. She added that personnel expenditures were based on the labor agreements in place when the budget was adopted, and other operating expenses generally assumed a 3% inflationary increase per year. Director Moreno reported that the General Fund financial sources represent all sources of income available to support governmental services, including both revenues and transfers from other funds. She stated that General Fund sources for FY 2025/26 were $611.1 million, with 73% of the revenues from taxes, including the big three revenues: TOT, Sales Taxes, and Property Taxes. She added that the remaining revenues include Fees and Permits, Business License, other revenues, and the draw on bond proceeds. She noted that General Fund financial uses represent the total obligations of the General Fund, including both expenditures and transfers to other funds. General Fund uses were adopted in the amount of $675 million, more than half of which is for personnel services. Director Moreno explained that visitors to Anaheim pay a tax of 15% on their hotel, motel, and short- term rental stays of 30 days or less. She reported that the tax is locally controlled, with the City retaining 100% of the revenue. She added that the tax is collected monthly, and the City receives the revenue approximately one month after it is paid by visitors. Director Moreno reported that the adopted TOT budget for FY 2025/26 was approximately $247 million, or 38% of General Fund operating sources. She stated that for the current year, TOT is projected to be about $252.1 million, or 3.4% over the prior year actuals and $5.6 million or 2.3% over budget and $2.3 million net of Lease Payment Measurement Revenues (LPMR). Director Moreno reported that Sales and Use Tax, the second largest General Fund revenue, is applied to the sale of tangible personal property. She stated that Anaheim tax rate is 7.75% with the bulk of taxes going to the State to fund schools and other state supported programs. She added that the City receives one cent of every dollar spent in Anaheim. She added that taxes are collected by the State quarterly and paid to the City in two monthly advances and a quarterly true -up. She City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 3 of 54 reported that Anaheim has a diverse and balanced economy. She noted that 30% comes from general retail and the remaining 70% is almost equally shared among the food, transportation, construction and business to business categories. She shared that while the tax base is diverse, there are weaknesses in the transportation sector, likely due to higher interest rates, however there is growth in general retail, food products, construction and business -to -business. She added that food products make up 20% of our tax base and are projected to increase 1.8% and miscellaneous is projected to decrease 5.0%, but makes up only 1 % of the City's tax base. She stated that the adopted Sales and Use Tax budget for FY 2025/26 was $115 million, or 18% of the General Fund operating sources. She reported that for FY 2025/26 the Sales Tax revenue is projected to be $1.8 million or 1.6% over budget at year end. Director Moreno reported that all real and tangible personal property in the State is subject to a property tax equal to 1 % of the value. She stated that the County collects the revenue and distributes it to local taxing entities, with the City's share at approximately 20%. She noted that the balance is shared among other local taxing entities, including the County, Schools and special districts. She reported that the adopted Property Tax budget for FY 2025/26 was approximately $111 M, or 17% of General Fund operating sources. She noted that Property Tax is the most stable of the big three revenues but the least robust. She stated that Property Tax is expected to be over budget by about $1.5 million or 1.3% due to secured property values. Director Moreno stated that the remaining revenues make up 27% of the General Fund Budget. She provided an overview of the remaining revenues and the adopted budget of $172 million. She shared that the largest revenue source is fees and permits at 34% and the revenues are designated to pay for the services provided and cannot exceed the reasonable cost for providing the service. She reported 10% of other revenues are intragovernmental service charges. She explained that they represent fees for services provided by one department to another. She added that Business License and Property Transfer Taxes make up 5% of the total, and Refunds and Reimbursement revenue makes up 9%. She noted that the balance includes intergovernmental revenues, or revenue from other agencies, fines, forfeitures and penalties, and use of money/property. She added that the use of money/property makes up a larger share due to the planned use of deficit bond proceeds in the amount of $34 million. Director Moreno reported that nearly half of the City's uses go to Keeping Us Safe, which includes Police and Fire, and is typical of local government. She shared that providing the necessities (Utilities and Public Works) make up 6%, Ensuring Quality of Life 15%, and the support departments make up 7% of General Fund Uses. She stated that a small portion of the transfers go to Economic Development and Other Funds, but the majority goes to support debt. She added that a bulk of that debt is for Resort Debt, or LPMR that are determined by formula. She reported that the amounts are equal to a specified portion of TOT, and then Sales and Property Tax increments on Disney properties. She added that expenditures are divided into the following percentages: Police makes up 40% of all expenses, 24% for Fire, 10% for Community Services, 3% for Housing and Community Development and reflects the City's ongoing commitment to funding homeless shelters and services, 7% for Planning and Building, and 7% for Public Works which maintains their maintenance of effort to continue receiving Measure M grant funding. She added that Public Utilities is at less than 1 %, which is mainly for streetlights and support for the 3-1-1 call center, and the Administrative and Supporting Activities, which make up the remaining 9% of expenditures. Budget Supervisor D'Anne Lee presented operating department's programs and projects for the Fiscal Year in support of the City's Strategic Plan. She reported that the Community Services Department worked with the community and artist Damin Lujan on a colorful mural located at Center Greens along the east and north -facing walls of the Youth Center and along the east wall of the City City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 4 of 54 Hall Parking structure. She explained that the colorful mural represents Anaheim's history, river, and wildlife and can be seen from almost all areas of the park. She added that a new restroom and adjacent picnic space opened in March at Rio Vista Park. The Department has improved and modernized park restroom facilities at Manzanita, Chaparral, Pearson, Riverdale, Eucalyptus, Sycamore, and Deer Canyon Parks by installing permanent stall doors to provide for additional privacy and security for park patrons. She stated that construction on the City's 3rd splash pad at Brookhurst Park and is expected to be completed in Summer 2026. She reported that construction of the City's 9th skate park at Boysen Park is anticipated to start later in the year. The skate park was designed with the community and incorporates skate elements that residents requested, in addition to seating and shade structures and the first phase of a complete park renovation at Boysen Park. She stated that construction on the City's 6911 park is expected to start later this year. Located along the Santa Ana River, next to Angel Stadium, this will be the first phase of the OC River Walk. Once completed, River Park will be 3-acres of recreational space with walking paths, a playground, outdoor fitness, benches, shaded picnic areas, a small amphitheater, native landscaping, and more. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that the Anaheim Police Department and Anaheim Fire & Rescue play an integral role in keeping our communities safe and prepared in the event of an emergency. She shared that Anaheim Police Department's School Resource Officers (SRO's) are organizing a parent workshop to include 1 high school, 2 junior highs, and 4 elementary schools. She noted that parents will receive information about their child's safety at school and at home. She added that the Anaheim Community Services Department and local community groups (Neutral Ground) are also invited to attend and share how they can support parents and school administrators. She noted that the department continues to leverage the resources of the Real Time Crime Center to support patrol operations, conduct investigations, and provide long-term problem -solving solutions. She shared that the center utilizes personnel to monitor calls for service, camera feeds, Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) hits, and drones, as well as leveraging the Department's technology solutions and averages 200 calls per month and provides follow up investigative work for several of the department's detective units. She reported that with the support from Congresswoman Young Kim, APD is expected to receive $500,000 in funding to equip the Anaheim Police Department with advanced technology to support the Real Time Crime Center and Department Operations Center. She noted that the equipment will enhance officers' ability to proactively respond to calls for service using information gleaned from various law enforcement databases, analytical software, and video in real time to deter and solve crime, provide and share real-time intelligence, and assist with tactical support to patrol operations and critical incident resolution. She added that the City's Homeless Assessment Liaison Officers (HALO) focus on citywide outreach and enforcement efforts, partnering with a variety of non-profit organizations and our Community Care Response Team (CCRT) to provide long-term solutions for our unhoused community. She stated that the HALO team continues to collaborate with our Public Works Department and neighboring law enforcement agencies to conduct ongoing cleanups of illegal encampments to reduce visual blight in and around the City. She reported that the Anaheim Fire & Rescue Department's Ambulance Program continues to demonstrate strong financial performance and positive community impact. She shared that ambulance -related revenues are projected to generate approximately 25% of the department's FY 2025/26 General Fund operating budget, and the program maintains strong community ties through events including the Fall Festival, Fourth of July Firecracker Run, Spark of Love Toy Drive, and neighborhood CPR training —reinforcing the department's commitment to Anaheim residents year- round. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that beyond the financial metrics, the Ambulance Program serves as a meaningful investment in the department's future workforce. She noted that ambulance attendants develop hands-on clinical skills alongside firefighters and paramedics and receive structured preparation for firefighter recruitment, including interview coaching and physical fitness training. She City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 5 of 54 added that by cultivating this internal talent pool, the program ensures a sustainable pipeline of highly qualified, department -ready candidates who are already deeply familiar with the Anaheim community and the City's high standards of care. She noted that construction of Fire Station 12 started in April 2025 and is scheduled for completion in Winter 2026. She added that Fire Station 12 will include two buildings: a 10,400 square foot main building to house the primary response apparatus, dormitories, and administrative offices; and the 2,274 square foot auxiliary building for staging, covered parking, and showcasing of Anaheim Fire & Rescue's oldest antique apparatus. She noted that the department responds to over 40,000 calls for service annually, resulting in over 3,600 responses per fire station. Once completed, Fire Station 12 will help reduce response times, improving Public Safety and fulfilling Strategy No. 3 to Build Fire Station 12 as part of Anaheim's Strategic Plan. She stated that the Community Risk Reduction Division has revolutionized its fire prevention efforts by transitioning from paper -based workflows to First Due, a sophisticated cloud -based inspection platform. She explained that by equipping fire inspectors with iPads, the department has replaced manual record -keeping with a real-time digital system that allows for immediate documentation of California Fire Code compliance, including the ability to attach photographic evidence of deficiencies for clearer educational outreach. She added that the digital pivot enhances transparency and efficiency for the business community; business owners receive comprehensive inspection reports and automated invoices via email within minutes of the inspector's departure. She noted that the introduction of First Due supports Goal D (Foster a High Performing Organization), Strategy No. 7 (Assess current technology to identify gaps and needs within City operations to better serve the community) as part of Anaheim's Strategic Plan. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that the Public Utilities and Public Works Departments are focused on Enhancing Livability and Investing in Infrastructure through projects that foster community well- being and creating resilient infrastructure to meet the community's needs. She shared that in October, APU opened the Sustainability Education Center (SEC), advancing the City's sustainability, student enrichment, and workforce development goals. The SEC features interactive exhibits showcasing how energy and water are delivered to customers. The SEC was dedicated in October 2025 with the help of local elementary students from nearby schools. She added that following the dedication, APU has hosted a mix of student and school administrator tours, and high school mentoring and community open house events. She stated that ongoing collaboration with school districts has identified future partnership opportunities for students and teachers to learn about the energy and water industry. She noted that based on community input and in coordination with City departments, APU has continued making lighting improvements throughout the City. She added that upgrades have been completed along several major corridors, including Brookhurst, Euclid, Santa Ana Canyon, and State College, to improve major corridor visibility. She reported that APU also offers the Dusk to Dawn Program, which provides high efficiency security lights for single-family and multi- family homes. Distribution events are held in neighborhoods to make the lights accessible, inform residents of utility projects, and connect residents with efficiency and bill assistance programs. She shared that the Public Works Department will be installing a new 21-inch sewer main along the southern edge of Katella Avenue, between Harbor Blvd. and West Street. She noted that the project will include the upsizing of the existing northern sewer line from 21 and 24-inch to a 30-inch pipe on Katella Avenue between Harbor Blvd. and Walnut Street. She added that the improvements will eliminate seven high -maintenance inverted siphons and provide increased efficiency and capacity for the foreseeable future. She shared that the project will also provide a rehabilitated roadway, a new 4'" westbound lane on Katella Avenue, between Harbor Blvd. and Disneyland Drive, new sidewalks, ADA access ramps, curb and gutter, pavement markings, and repainted curbs. She added that the project is currently in design, and construction is scheduled from the fourth quarter of 2026 to the second quarter of 2028, finishing before the 2028 Olympics. She reported that the Anaheim Litter Removal Taskforce (ALRT) and HALO team have collected approximately 149 tons of litter, equaling about 298,000 pounds. She explained that services for the programs are provided across a range of City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 6 of 54 locations, including freeway entrances and exits, as well as other citywide areas requiring litter removal. She noted that the ALRT program reimbursement for FY 2025/26 is projected at approximately $200,000, reflecting the City's commitment to cleanliness and its ongoing partnership with Caltrans. She shared that Public Works made significant progress during FY 2025/26 with the launch of a new Annual Palm Pruning Initiative, which increased the palm trimming cycle from every two years to every year. She highlighted the City's efforts, noting that 6,160 palm trees are projected to be pruned, establishing an annual palm pruning schedule supporting the longevity of the City's palm tree inventory. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that through the Planning & Building, Housing & Community Development, and Economic Development Departments' key projects, the departments show strong alignment with the strategic goals of Investing in the Future and Encouraging Major Development. She stated that construction is ongoing for Phase 1 of the OCVIBE project, with completion of the Market Hall, Concert Hall, Urban Park, Parking Deck D, River Road, and Cerritos Avenue anticipated by the end of 2026. Construction of Phase 2, which includes the Arena Hotel, Katella Entertainment Building, South Plaza, Parking Deck A, Meadow Park, and two pedestrian bridges, is expected to commence before the end of 2026. She shared that staff continues to work with Disney for the long- term growth and expansion of theme park and tourist -oriented uses in The Anaheim Resort area. Anticipated projects in 2026 include an Avatar-themed attraction/land in Disney California Adventure, a pedestrian bridge over Harbor Boulevard, improvements to the east esplanade area, and related temporary improvements to shuttle and rideshare drop-off areas. She reported that the Housing and Community Development department continues to work to provide affordable housing options. She noted that the Azure Apartments (formerly Studio 6 Motel) permanent supportive rental housing community was completed in February 2026. The Azure Apartments project will provide 87 affordable rental housing units for extremely low-income families and/or individuals exiting homelessness. She reported that the My Anaheim Home Program, launched in late 2025, is a strategic initiative funded by the Anaheim Local Housing Trust Fund (A-LHTF). She noted that it is designed to bridge the affordability gap for residents who can qualify for a primary mortgage but struggle with high market prices or down payment requirements. She shared that the Program provides a $50,000 loan in the form of a "silent" second mortgage and is available to first-time home buyers with a household income up to 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for Orange County. She stated that the City has transitioned from extensive outreach to active intake. She reported that a new application portal is now live, allowing interested residents to complete a pre -application screening and join the interest list. Applications are currently being reviewed in the order received. She shared that the Economic Development Department continues its efforts to revitalize commercial corridors and support local businesses through its Storefront Improvement Program, which offers funding to help businesses enhance their fagades, landscaping, and signage. She added that the Department is working to secure a major investment along the Lincoln Avenue corridor by negotiating the development of a new Porsche dealership on a vacant former redevelopment agency site. She added that if required financing is secured, the project will transform underutilized land into a high -value commercial anchor featuring modern architecture with freeway visibility. Budget Supervisor Lee stated that as the City looks to transition into a new fiscal year and navigate uncertain economic and political conditions, we continue to leverage optimistic forecasts with potential risks when planning the budget. She shared that the U.S. economy continues to show resilience. Inflation rates have cooled and are settling at normal levels. Consumer spending continues to grow and has not shown signs of slowing. In California, restaurant and travel sales are experiencing modest growth, and taxable sales increased by approximately 1.7% year over year for FY 2025. She shared that despite the positive economic activity California still faces various concerns including a higher unemployment rate, a state budget deficit, and material increases in fuel costs resulting from the recent conflict with Iran, which adds further uncertainty as the fiscal impacts on City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 7 of 54 state- and federally funded programs still remain unclear. She added that higher gas prices may also affect local tourism, as increased travel costs could discourage visitors. She noted that frequent administrative changes create a high level of economic and political uncertainty. The federal deficit continues to grow as federal spending continues to exceed revenues. She added that together with the possibility of a deflating technology bubble could set off a fiscal crisis and negatively impact the state budget. She added that housing affordability continues to be a growing issue for California, as home prices and mortgage interest rates remain high. She explained that high interest rates are keeping people in their homes and fewer homes are available for buyers. The median home price in November of 2025 for Orange County was $1.4 million. She emphasized that the Finance Department is dedicated to supporting the City's departments' commitment to providing key public services to the community. Director Moreno stated that TOT, Sales Tax, Property Tax are projected to exceed budget, as are other revenues; however, labor increases, operating expenses, and transfers out are projected to be higher by an even greater amount. She noted that the net increase from the five-year plan is estimated to be $12.1 million more than what was adopted in June. She reported that in the preliminary proposed budget TOT is estimated to be flat, while sales tax and property tax are both estimated to be higher than Year 2 of the adopted five-year forecast. She added that other revenues are projected to be higher, but they are largely fee revenues that have offsetting expenditures. Both labor and other operating costs are projected to be higher. She noted that staff will continue to review and refine those estimates as they prepare the proposed budget. Director Moreno provided an overview of the budget calendar. She reported that departments submitted their proposed FY 26/27 budgets. She noted that at the end of April and May, staff will publish the City Manager's Proposed Budget for review by the City Council, the Budget, Investment and Technology Commission, and the community. She shared that Story Maps will also be available for users to explore the proposed capital improvement plan online and see where projects are planned throughout the City. She added that the Department will hold Budget Workshops and visit neighborhood meetings in June, concluding with the Budget Adoption at the second meeting in June. DISCUSSION: Council Member Meeks noted that the current budget outlook is significantly improved compared to the same time last year and expressed optimism regarding this year's budget projections. She inquired about the timeline for the LPMR payoff. Director Moreno reported that the LPMR would be paid off between the third and fourth quarter of the next fiscal year with refined estimates before budget adoption. In response to Council Member Meeks, Director Moreno clarified that the LPMR payoff is already incorporated into the five-year forecast and that the forecast will be updated to reflect a more refined payoff timeline. Council Member Balius requested clarification regarding the difference between Uses and Expenditures. Director Moreno explained that the Uses category includes both expenditures and transfers out, such as debt service payments. She clarified that as a result, the Uses total is broader than direct expenditures alone, while the expenditures category reflects only direct General Fund expenses. Council Member Balius requested clarification on the revenue projections presented in the adopted Five -Year forecast. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 8 of 54 Director Moreno confirmed the projections and noted that increased revenues would also result in a corresponding increase in LPMR-related payments or transfers. In response to Council Member Balius, Director Moreno confirmed that the increase for labor costs were $9 million due to labor savings, with the contracts totaling $12 million. In response to Mayor Aitken, Director Moreno clarified that the increased labor contract costs applied to the current fiscal year. Mayor Pro Tern Leon requested clarification regarding the Anaheim Litter Removal Task Force reimbursement, asking whether the anticipated $200,000 reimbursement was solely from Caltrans or included contributions from other organizations. Director Moreno confirmed that the costs would be reimbursed by Caltrans. Mayor Pro Tern Leon requested clarification regarding revenues were outperforming budget assumptions and inquired about the projected net revenue increase for the fiscal year. Director Moreno confirmed that net revenues were up by $16 million, with most being fee -type revenues that have offsetting costs or may be restricted. In response to Mayor Pro Tern Leon, Director Moreno clarified that overall revenues had increased slightly, but operating costs had risen by a similar amount, resulting in little net change. She noted that the primary additional budget impact was attributable to increased labor contract costs. Council Member Rubalcava thanked staff for the detailed budget update and expressed appreciation that the City's financial outlook had improved compared to projections from six months earlier. She requested that the upcoming budget workshop include a discussion of potential revenue diversification strategies, noting the City's reliance on TOT revenues. She also requested additional information regarding public safety expenditures, including a breakdown of reimbursements received from Resort partners for public safety services, specifically information on the fully burdened costs covered by Resort partners and the portion attributable to reimbursed overtime, to better assess the extent to which service costs are being recovered. She expressed optimism about the City's improved fiscal position and hope that the positive trend would continue through the upcoming budget process. Director Moreno clarified that the structural deficit remains and has increased; however, revenue growth has helped offset a portion of the City's rising operating and labor costs, reducing the overall budget impact. Council Member Rubalcava acknowledged staffs clarification regarding the structural deficit and noted that previous projections had indicated revenues would decline, potentially resulting in a larger - than -anticipated deficit and the need for a budget reforecast. In response to Council Member Maahs, Director Moreno explained that revenues from major development projects are not currently included in the forecast because the timing of those projects remains uncertain. She noted that those revenues will be incorporated as more information becomes available. She clarified that anticipated sales tax revenues from routine development activity, such as the Porsche dealership project, are already included in the forecasts. The City Council took a brief recess at 4:51 p.m. and reconvened at 5:00 p.m. INVOCATION: Reverend Lissa Smith, Canyon Hills Presbyterian Church FLAG SALUTE: Council Member Ryan Balius City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 9 of 54 Without objection, Mayor Aitken took the meeting out of order for a brief presentation from Orange County Commission on the Status of Women & Girls Commissioner Jolynn Mahoney. PRESENTATIONS: Presentation on the Orange County Commission on the Status of Women & Girls Commission Orange County Commission on the Status of Women & Girls Commissioner Jolynn Mahoney provided an overview of the Commission's work and presented the Council with copies of its first annual report. She explained that the Commission, reestablished in 2025 by the Orange County Board of Supervisors, includes representatives from each supervisorial district and at -large commissioners. She reported that the Commission's inaugural report compares data and statistics on women and girls in Orange County with Statewide figures across various quality -of -life and well-being indicators. She noted that Orange County women and girls generally fare better than statewide averages, while emphasizing that challenges remain. She shared that the report was developed in collaboration with numerous county departments and agencies. She stated that the Commission's upcoming work will focus on issues related to child care, adult care, and associated costs. She invited public participation in the Commission's monthly meetings on the first Thursdays at 10 a.m. and thanked the Council for the opportunity to present the report. Mayor Aitken thanked Commissioner Mahoney for dedicating her time to the Commission. Recognizing Janis Heckel on her retirement as Executive Director of the Anaheim Community Foundation Mayor Aitken recognized Janis Heckel for her over 35 years of service to the Anaheim community and highlighted her retirement from the Anaheim Community Foundation. She commended her leadership as Executive Director of the Foundation, noting her contributions to strengthening community partnerships, expanding access to services, and supporting children, families, and seniors throughout Anaheim. She highlighted Ms. Heckel's previous service with the City's Community Services Department, where she oversaw a variety of recreational, arts, aquatics, youth, nature, and community center programs. Her accomplishments with the Anaheim Community Foundation included leading community needs assessments for youth, families, and older adults; helping establish the Second Act program for seniors; overseeing a $1 million federal grant that expanded youth mental health services; and growing the Anaheim Collaborative network to more than 30 nonprofit partners. She also recognized her role in organizing the annual State of the City fundraising luncheon and her recent support of the City's Anaheim Contigo initiative, which has provided emergency assistance grants to families impacted by immigration -related issues. She thanked Ms. Heckel for her longstanding dedication and contributions to the Anaheim community. Ms. Heckel thanked the Mayor and City Council for the recognition and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Anaheim community. She reflected on her career in community service and emphasized that the accomplishments highlighted were the result of collaborative efforts involving the Anaheim Community Foundation Board of Directors, City staff, nonprofit partners, and members of the Anaheim Collaborative. She thanked her husband, family, friends, and colleagues for their support throughout her career. She stated that serving the Anaheim community had been a privilege and noted that Anaheim would always hold a special place in her heart. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 10 of 54 Recognizing City of Anaheim Retirees for 20 plus years of service Mayor Aitken recognized Anaheim employees retiring after more than 20 years of service, expressing appreciation for their long-term commitment and contributions to the City. She noted that their decades of service had positively impacted City operations, their colleagues, and the residents of Anaheim. She recognized Sergeant Brian Paqua, retiring after 23 years of service, Jose Leon after 24 years of service, Senior Administrative Analyst Julie Parker after 26 years of service, Senior Police Dispatcher after 29 years of service, and Electric Meter Supervisor Jose Leon after 31 years of service. Recognizing Police Service Dogs "Rebel" and "Zax" on their retirement and service to the City of Anaheim Mayor Aitken recognized Anaheim Police Department K-9s Rebel and Zax upon their retirement from service, commending their contributions to public safety, criminal investigations, officer protection, and community engagement. She shared that Rebel was honored for eight years of service, during which he assisted in the apprehension of numerous violent offenders, contributed to hundreds of peaceful surrenders, served as a primary SWAT K-9, and became the second undercover K-9 in Anaheim Police Department history. She added that his retirement comes with the promotion of his handler, Sergeant Nathaniel Cox. She noted that Zax was recognized for five years of service, including assisting in the apprehension of violent felony suspects, conducting hundreds of narcotics searches, and participating in community outreach at schools and public events. She acknowledged the dedication of the dogs' handlers and expressed appreciation for the role both K-9 teams played in protecting the community. Chief of Police Manny Cid thanked the City Council for its continued support of the Anaheim Police Department and its K-9 program. He recognized retiring K-9s Rebel and Zachs, along with their handlers, Sergeants Mullins and Cox, for their dedicated service and contributions to public safety. He noted the inherent risks associated with K-9 operations and highlighted the valuable role the dogs played in serving the community and supporting law enforcement efforts. He congratulated the K-9 teams on their retirement and expressed appreciation for their years of service. At 5:23 p.m., Mayor Aitken called to order the Anaheim Public Financing Authority, Anaheim Housing and Public Improvements Authority and Anaheim Housing Authority, in joint session with the City Council. ADDITIONS/DELETIONSTO THE AGENDAS: None PUBLIC COMMENTS (all agenda items except public hearing Prior to receipt of public comments, City Clerk Theresa Bass provided an outline of procedures for public comments, notice of translation services, and a brief decorum statement. City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of 142 public comments were received electronically prior to 3:45 P.M. [A final total of 156 public comments were received electronically, distributed to the City Council, and made part of the official records]. — See Appendix. Carol Latham, Community Outreach Specialist at the Muzeo, thanked the City Council for the recognition for Janis Heckel. She provided an update on upcoming museum activities. She announced a community "paint -out" event to help prepare gallery space for future exhibits following the conclusion of the current exhibition. She noted that the galleries would be closed until April 25 while new exhibits were installed. She also announced the opening of the museum's spring exhibits, including Concrete Wave: Vans Off the Wall, an exhibition celebrating 60 years of surfboard culture City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 11 of 54 and the legacy of Vans. She also announced the Spirit of '76 in the historic Carnegie Gallery, which will complement future America 250-related programming. She encouraged community engagement, participation, and support for museum activities and invited feedback from the City Council and residents on ways the museum can continue to serve the community and promote the arts. Stephanie Mercadante raised concerns regarding the safety and quality of Anaheim's drinking water, questioning whether hydrant flushing activities conducted prior to water testing may have affected test results. She cited observations of hydrant flushing in Anaheim Hills and referenced turbidity measurements, requesting an explanation for the timing and purpose of the flushing activities. She also expressed concerns about PFAS contamination, specifically elevated PFOS levels reportedly identified at Well 51, and questioned when the City was notified, what actions were taken, and how the public was informed. She raised concerns regarding perchlorate contamination, its potential sources, and its impacts on public health. She questioned why residents and taxpayers bear the costs associated with water contamination remediation and called for greater accountability from entities responsible for the pollutants. Mayor Aitken requested that Public Utilities General Manager Dukku Lee provide a written response to Ms. Mercadante. She stated that Anaheim maintains a safe drinking water system and emphasized confidence in the quality of the City's water supply. She also encouraged residents to utilize tap water and expressed concern about unnecessarily alarming the public regarding water quality. Mike Robbins expressed concerns regarding water quality, citing reported PFAS contamination at Well 51 and questioning the City's response to water infrastructure issues. He argued that the City should prioritize proactive investment in infrastructure and public safety services rather than reacting to problems after they arise. He raised concerns regarding emergency services funding, particularly in Anaheim Hills, and criticized City leadership for what he characterized as insufficient attention to residents' needs. He urged City officials to prioritize public safety, infrastructure investment, and accountability in decision -making and concluded by emphasizing the importance of serving the interests of Anaheim residents. Jeanine Robbins raised concerns regarding the safety of Anaheim's drinking water, citing reports of elevated trihalomethane (THM) levels in the Walnut Canyon Reservoir system and questioning the frequency and timing of hydrant flushing activities in Anaheim Hills. She shared that flushing conducted prior to water sampling could affect the accuracy of water quality testing and requested additional information regarding the City's water monitoring practices. She expressed concerns about PFAS contamination associated with Well 51, questioning when the City was notified of elevated contaminant levels, whether the well was immediately removed from service, and how residents were informed. She alleged that contaminants, including perchlorates and PFAS compounds, pose health risks and called for greater transparency regarding water quality issues. She criticized City officials and raised concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest involving Council actions and labor union support. She referenced the Festival project, public safety matters, and a prior police -related incident, urging City officials to prioritize accountability and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Cecil Jordan Corkern shared concerns regarding the content and themes of certain Disney films. He expressed a desire to discuss the concerns with the City Council. He shared his efforts to save money and expressed hope for the Council's support. R. Joshua Collins urged the City Council to prioritize housing, shelter, and services for individuals experiencing homelessness. He expressed concern about the number of unhoused individuals and households waiting for affordable housing assistance in Anaheim and called for greater investment in affordable housing, shelters, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment programs. He City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 12 of 54 criticized excessive spending on corporate subsidies and other expenditures, arguing that additional resources should be directed toward addressing homelessness and housing needs. He also raised concerns regarding the proposed Festival development, citing evacuation and public safety issues, and encouraged the City to carefully consider those concerns. He shared his support for rent control measures and called for the release of information related to the death of Albert Arzola. He concluded by encouraging the Council to act with compassion and prioritize the needs of residents. Jennifer Koon spoke in support of establishing an Anaheim Immigration Legal Defense Fund and urged the City Council to approve funding of at least $100,000 as proposed under Agenda Item No. 28. She stated that Anaheim's immigrant community has been significantly impacted by immigration enforcement actions and emphasized the importance of timely access to legal representation for affected residents. She encouraged Anaheim to follow the example of neighboring cities by partnering with qualified legal service providers through a formal selection process to expand access to immigration legal assistance. She described immigrant residents as an important part of the Anaheim community and urged the City to respond with compassion and support during a time of heightened need. Kelsey Gordon urged the City Council to allocate an additional $250,000 to the Anaheim Contigo program and establish a separate $250,000 Immigration Legal Defense Fund to provide legal screenings, representation, and related services for residents impacted by immigration enforcement actions. She stated that immigration enforcement activities have caused significant hardship for affected families and emphasized the importance of access to legal representation and due process. She shared her experience with the Orange County Rapid Response Network and described the challenges faced by detained individuals and their families and argued that current funding levels are insufficient to meet community needs. She requested enhancements to the Anaheim Contigo program, including a simplified application process and increased financial assistance, contending that current aid levels do not adequately address the economic impacts experienced by affected residents. She encouraged the City Council to demonstrate compassion and provide additional support to Anaheim families facing uncertainty and hardship. Karen Hernandez read a statement on behalf of Anaheim resident Rigo Hernandez in support of the Anaheim Contigo program and the proposed Immigration Legal Defense Fund. The statement urged the City Council to simplify the Anaheim Contigo application process, increase funding for the program, and establish a legal defense fund to assist residents facing immigration -related challenges. It explained that the current application process can be difficult for families experiencing hardship and that additional funding is necessary to meet growing community needs. The statement referenced the experiences of the speaker's family following an immigration enforcement incident involving a family member, emphasizing the importance of accessible support services and legal assistance during times of crisis. It concluded by requesting that the City Council simplify the application process, increase the funding for the Contigo program, and support the addition of the Legal Defense Fund. Janet Brown, Senior Field Representative for Congressman Lou Correa, read a letter on behalf of Congressman Correa expressing support for the proposed Immigration Legal Defense Fund within the Anaheim Contigo program. The letter stated that immigration enforcement activities have economic impacts on Anaheim's workforce, businesses, and families, particularly in industries such as hospitality, construction, food service, and logistics. It noted that enforcement actions can disrupt employment, reduce workforce stability, and create financial hardship for affected households. The letter further stated Anaheim Contigo has provided valuable assistance and resources but argued that additional legal support is needed to address growing demand. Congressman Correa expressed support for establishing a dedicated Immigration Legal Defense Fund, stating that access to legal representation can improve case outcomes, reduce detention -related impacts, and help maintain City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 13 of 54 economic stability for families and employers. The letter concluded that such a program would build upon existing City efforts and align Anaheim with approaches adopted by other jurisdictions. G. Price raised concerns regarding the status of the East Anaheim wildfire evacuation study, noting that the study was intended to develop evacuation planning tools, evaluate evacuation routes, model wildfire evacuation scenarios, and establish significance thresholds for future development impacts on evacuation times. She stated that the study was originally expected to be completed in fall 2025 and questioned delays in its completion. She expressed concerns regarding the release of evacuation modeling data, alleging that information generated through the study had not been made publicly available despite public records requests. She alleged potential conflicts of interest involving individuals associated with both the evacuation study and the Festival project. She argued that approval of the Festival project should not proceed without incorporating the findings of the wildfire evacuation study and asserted that doing so could have implications for public safety and emergency evacuation planning. Lana Erlanson, representing Radiant Futures and speaking on behalf of USA 250 Anaheim, presented an overview of the community -led initiative commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States. She shared that the effort is being coordinated through the Muzeo with participation from local businesses, nonprofits, schools, neighborhood groups, and other community stakeholders. She stated that the initiative is intended to promote reflection on the nation's history, encourage dialogue about current community issues, and inspire discussion about the future. She highlighted the creation of a community events calendar and encouraged organizations throughout Anaheim to participate through educational, cultural, civic, and neighborhood -based activities. She noted that planning efforts are already underway, including previous partnership events and upcoming exhibits and programs, and invited City Council support as Anaheim joins communities nationwide in commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary. Douglas Robbins expressed concerns regarding wildfire evacuation safety and the project's potential impact on emergency evacuation conditions. He stated that residents have experienced significant traffic congestion during past evacuation events and argued that existing traffic and evacuation modeling may not accurately reflect real -world conditions. He questioned how the City could proceed with consideration of the project before completion and public review of the City's wildfire evacuation study. He noted that many residents had previously submitted comments and raised similar concerns regarding evacuation safety. He also expressed concerns about public confidence in the decision - making process, citing perceived coordination between project stakeholders and labor organizations. He urged the Council to ensure that all relevant safety studies are completed and publicly reviewed, that decisions are based on transparent information, and that public safety remains the primary consideration before moving forward with the project. Shelly Robbins spoke in support of the appeal of the Festival project and objected to the recommendation to deny it. She stated that the appeal raised significant concerns related to public safety, wildfire evacuation, traffic congestion, and the adequacy of the environmental review process. She argued that evacuation modeling does not adequately reflect real -world traffic conditions and existing roadway bottlenecks. She also noted that the City's wildfire evacuation study had not yet been released and questioned whether the Council should proceed with a final decision before reviewing its findings. She stated that more than 300 residents had submitted opposition comments and expressed concerns regarding transparency, noting that a public records request she submitted regarding the project remained pending. She requested that any final action on the project be delayed until the wildfire evacuation study is completed, public records have been released, and residents have had an opportunity to review the information. She referenced concerns regarding public confidence in the decision -making process and requested that Council Member Natalie Rubalcava City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 14 of 54 recuse herself from consideration of the project. She concluded by urging the Council to fully address the outstanding safety and transparency concerns before making a final decision and expressed support for the Arzola family. Greg Falcioni expressed concerns about wildfire evacuation safety and traffic congestion. Drawing on his experience during a previous wildfire evacuation, he described significant traffic gridlock that limited residents' ability to leave the neighborhood and stated that additional residential development could worsen evacuation conditions. He urged the Council to postpone any decision on the project until the wildfire evacuation study is completed and reviewed. Willie Sweet spoke in opposition to the proposed development, expressing concerns about neighborhood safety and its impact on an established community with many senior residents. He noted that many residents have lived in the area for decades and that the neighborhood has a stable, multigenerational character. He stated that residents are concerned about increased traffic and mobility challenges associated with the proposed project, particularly for seniors who regularly walk within the neighborhood. He urged the City Council to reconsider the development proposal and take into account the concerns of longtime residents regarding neighborhood safety and quality of life. LuisAndres Perez read a letter on behalf of Assemblymember Avelino Valencia expressing support for the proposed immigration legal defense component within the Anaheim Contigo program. The letter stated that there is a growing need for immigration -related legal services in Anaheim and emphasized that access to legal representation helps protect families, promote stability, and ensure due process. Assemblymember Valencia expressed support for partnering with qualified nonprofit legal service providers and described the proposal as an investment in the well-being of Anaheim residents. The letter urged the City Council to approve the item and move forward with implementation of the expanded services. Betty Farnsworth urged the City Council to reconsider and rehear the Festival project, citing concerns regarding wildfire safety, evacuation planning, and the adequacy of the review process. She noted that the City's wildfire evacuation study had not yet been released and questioned whether decisions regarding the project should proceed before the study is available for public review. She raised concerns regarding comments made during prior Council discussions, including references to labor considerations and housing development in various districts. She argued that the proposed project site differs from other development locations because it is situated in a very high fire severity zone and contended that alternative sites should be considered. She referenced past wildfire events, including the Canyon fires, and expressed concerns about ember -driven fire spread and evacuation challenges. She argued that the proposed residential development could increase risks in the area and urged the Council to prioritize public safety and reconsider approval of the project. Tannis Soto addressed the City Council regarding Agenda Item No. 24 and stated that she was concerned to see the item presented with a recommendation to deny the request for rehearing. She expressed concerns regarding wildfire risk, evacuation capacity, and traffic congestion in Anaheim Hills, arguing that additional residential development could worsen evacuation conditions during an emergency. She referenced prior discussions regarding wildfire mitigation measures and questioned whether proposed traffic mitigation strategies would adequately address existing gridlock concerns. She suggested that future developers should contribute funding toward wildfire prevention and safety improvements. Justin Massey, representing Senator Tom Umberg, read a letter in support of Agenda Item 28, which would provide additional funding for the Anaheim Contigo program and establish an immigration legal defense component. The letter stated that Anaheim Contigo has provided critical assistance to families experiencing financial hardship related to immigration enforcement actions and described the City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 15 of 54 program as an important resource for affected residents. The letter further expressed support for creating a legal defense component to provide legal representation and educational resources to individuals facing immigration proceedings. Senator Umberg's letter emphasized the importance of access to legal counsel and due process, arguing that legal representation can significantly affect case outcomes and help families remain together. The letter urged the City Council to support the proposed funding and expansion of services. Joni Gaynor opposed the Festival project and expressed concerns regarding wildfire safety, evacuation planning, and the decision -making process. The speaker noted that the project site is located within a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and a high fire severity zone, arguing that conditions in District 6 differ significantly from other areas of the city and should not be compared when evaluating housing development needs. She questioned the Council's approval of the project while the City's wildfire evacuation study remained incomplete, asserting that decisions affecting public safety should be based on a full understanding of evacuation risks. She raised concerns about the timing and conduct of the public hearing process, arguing that residents were not provided sufficient opportunity to comment on developments that occurred during Council deliberations. She noted that the Mayor and Council Member Meeks voted against the project and expressed concerns regarding statements made during prior Council discussions about the use of union labor. She questioned whether factors unrelated to land -use planning and public safety influenced the decision and urged the Council to reconsider the project approval. Michael Wakely addressed concerns regarding the proposed Festival project, wildfire safety, and housing requirements. He stated that concerns raised by Council Members regarding evacuation routes and infrastructure remain unresolved and argued that the project site's location in a high fire hazard area warrants additional scrutiny. He explained that State housing law requires the City to plan and zone for housing units rather than construct a specific number of homes and contended that Anaheim has already met its housing planning obligations through existing development capacity, including projects in the Platinum Triangle area. He argued that roadway infrastructure and evacuation capacity have not been sufficiently improved to support additional development in the area. He questioned the need for the project given the perceived availability of alternative housing sites and urged the Council to prioritize public safety and resident interests when considering future development decisions. Steve Herr addressed the City Council regarding the Festival project and expressed concerns about its potential impact on traffic and evacuation safety in Anaheim Hills. He stated that many residents had previously raised concerns about adding a large residential development and the resulting increase in vehicle traffic on roads already perceived as congested during emergency situations. He argued that roads have practical limits similar to buildings and public venues and contended that additional development could exceed the area's ability to safely accommodate evacuation traffic. He referenced the Council's prior decision regarding the Deer Canyon project and urged the Council to reject the Festival project, citing public safety and evacuation concerns as the primary reasons for opposition. Linda Hurley spoke regarding the proposed Festival project and expressed strong concerns about wildfire evacuation safety and the Council's decision -making process. She thanked the Mayor and the Council Members who voted against the project at a previous meeting and stated that she believes public safety concerns raised by residents have not been adequately addressed. She argued that residents have repeatedly voiced concerns about wildfire risks, evacuation capacity, and the potential impacts of additional development in Anaheim Hills. She asserted that the Council should prioritize resident safety when considering development proposals and criticized what she perceived as greater consideration being given to other interests than to community concerns. She concluded by City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 16 of 54 stating that residents intend to remain engaged in the issue and participate in future elections to hold elected officials accountable for their decisions regarding the project and public safety matters. Navreet Singh Dhaliwal spoke in support of Agenda Item 28 and advocated for expanded legal assistance for immigrant residents. He emphasized the challenges individuals face when navigating complex legal systems, particularly those affected by immigration enforcement actions, and argued that access to legal representation, information, and language assistance is critical to ensuring due process. He stated that legal support services help residents understand and exercise their rights and can strengthen trust between community members and public institutions. He encouraged the City to continue investing in and expanding legal assistance programs, asserting that access to due process and legal representation should be available to all residents regardless of immigration status or financial circumstances. Teresa Ploum urged the City Council to deny approval of the Festival project, citing concerns about wildfire evacuation safety and the absence of a completed wildfire evacuation study. She argued that the project should not be approved until the study is released and considered as part of the environmental review process, asserting that decisions should be based on complete information regarding potential safety impacts. She emphasized that Anaheim Hills is designated as a high fire hazard area and stated that wildfire risks, evacuation challenges, and emergency response conditions differ from those in other parts of the City. She explained that approving additional high - density residential development without fully understanding these impacts could place residents at greater risk. She also expressed support for the Arzola family and called for the release of body -worn camera footage related to an officer -involved shooting, stating that transparency is important to maintaining public trust. Vern Nelson discussed an ongoing citizen -led initiative to place a rent control measure on the ballot in Anaheim. He stated that the proposed initiative would limit annual rent increases, establish eviction protections, and create a renters' board to help enforce housing regulations and resolve disputes between landlords and tenants. He noted that supporters are currently gathering signatures to qualify the measure for the ballot and encouraged community participation. He expressed support for increased funding for Anaheim Contigo and the proposed immigration legal defense fund. He shared support for the Arzola family's request for information related to an officer -involved shooting and reiterated opposition to the Festival project, citing safety concerns and a lack of affordability. He promoted the Anaheim Rent Stabilization, Eviction Restrictions, and Mobile Home Park Closure Regulations Initiative, which supporters are seeking to place on the ballot. He stated that the measure would limit annual rent increases, establish eviction protections, and create a renters' board to enforce housing regulations and help resolve disputes between landlords and tenants. He argued that the initiative would provide tenants with greater access to information about their rights and a local mechanism for addressing housing concerns without the expense of legal representation. Glen Kim urged the City Council to reconsider its support for the Festival apartment project, citing concerns related to wildfire evacuation, traffic congestion, insurance costs, and environmental review. He shared his personal experience during a previous wildfire event and argued that the project would increase evacuation times in a high fire hazard area and could worsen existing traffic conditions during emergencies. He expressed concerns that regional commuter traffic was not fully accounted for in traffic analyses and suggested that additional residential density in the area could contribute to rising homeowner insurance costs. He questioned aspects of the project's environmental review and stated that alternative development locations should be considered before approving housing in a high fire -risk area. He requested that the City Council reverse their support for the project and prioritize resident safety concern. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 17 of 54 Grace McGee expressed continued concerns regarding wildfire evacuation and public safety in Anaheim Hills, urging the City Council to reconsider approval of the Festival project. She stated that infrastructure and evacuation capacity should be addressed before additional housing development is approved in the area. She emphasized Anaheim Hills' wildfire risks, citing its location near the Santa Ana Canyon and comparing local conditions to recent major California wildfires. She argued that Anaheim Hills has already accommodated significant residential development and questioned the need for additional housing in the area. She expressed disappointment with Council Members who supported the project and urged them to prioritize resident safety and reconsider their votes. John L. Mazzarella urged council members who previously supported the Festival project to reconsider their votes, arguing that the project would create safety risks for Anaheim Hills residents and negatively affect community trust throughout the City. He expressed concern that approving the project could deepen divisions among neighborhoods and lead to broader impacts across Anaheim. He contended that Anaheim Hills faces unique wildfire and evacuation challenges that differ from conditions in other districts and argued that these factors should be given greater consideration in development decisions. He questioned the necessity of approving the project, stating that alternative housing sites exist elsewhere in the City and urging the Council to prioritize public safety and community concerns before moving forward. Chuck Hill stated that a formal request had been submitted to the City Attorney asking that Council Member Natalie Rubalcava recuse herself from voting on matters related to the Festival Center project. He alleged that Council Member Rubalcava's prior statements, political support, and relationships with labor organizations created the appearance of bias regarding the project. He criticized the Council's prior discussions of wildfire safety and evacuation issues, alleging that portions of the deliberations were coordinated or influenced by outside interests. He raised concerns regarding Council Member Norma Kurtz's comments about evacuation conditions in her district and argued that comparisons between other districts and Anaheim Hills were not appropriate due to differing wildfire risks. He urged the Council to consider potential conflicts of interest and public trust concerns before proceeding with any final action on the Festival Center project. Dean Gaynor thanked the Mayor and council members who opposed the Festival project and urged the remaining council members to reverse their support. He expressed concerns about wildfire evacuation safety, citing personal experience during the 2017 Canyon Fire when evacuation routes were heavily congested and it took hours to leave the area. He argued that adding the proposed apartment development would significantly increase traffic and evacuation risks in a designated high - fire zone. He stated that public safety should take precedence over development interests and requested that the Council deny the project approval. He thanked the retiring police canines and their handlers for their service to the community. Penelope L urged the City Council to establish an immigration legal defense fund of at least $250,000 and partner with community -based legal service providers to ensure timely assistance for residents facing immigration enforcement actions. She stated that immigration raids have caused significant hardship for Anaheim families, citing examples of family separation, loss of housing, and community displacement. She emphasized that access to legal representation during the first 24 hours of detention is critical but often unavailable due to limited resources. She noted that neighboring cities have implemented similar legal defense programs and argued that increased funding is needed to help Anaheim residents access due process and legal support during immigration proceedings. Natalia Ocho urged the City Council to establish an immigration legal defense fund of at least $100,000, stating that immigration cases can cost thousands of dollars and that Anaheim residents are directly affected by immigration enforcement actions. She shared personal observations of City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 18 of 54 enforcement operations and expressed concerns about their impact on community members. She highlighted community -led efforts to provide support and resources to affected families and argued that the City should similarly invest in legal assistance for residents facing immigration proceedings. She encouraged the Council to take action to support immigrant families and also called for accountability and transparency regarding the death of Albert Arzola. Dave Duran criticized City leadership for allegedly disregarding resident concerns and called for the release of the names of officers involved in the death of Albert Arzola. He also expressed support for establishing an immigration legal defense fund and raised concerns about homelessness and unhoused deaths in Anaheim. He referenced California Senate Bill 707, urging the City to comply with public participation requirements that would allow residents, including those unable to attend meetings in person, to participate remotely in council proceedings. He called for greater transparency, accountability, and public engagement in City government. Julie Filppi raised concerns about wildfire evacuation planning related to the proposed Festival project, referencing the City's Know Your Way evacuation program and evacuation routes directing residents to use Santa Ana Canyon Road. She argued that project traffic analyses did not adequately account for existing evacuation patterns and questioned assumptions regarding resident evacuation behavior during wildfire emergencies. She expressed concerns about the project's compliance with environmental review requirements and the adequacy of evacuation planning in the area. She criticized the proposed addition of high -density housing in a high -fire -risk area and questioned the effectiveness of current evacuation strategies, noting that the City had commissioned a separate wildfire evacuation study that had not yet been released. She urged the City Council not to approve the project. Sandra De Anda spoke in support of establishing an immigration legal defense fund and thanked Mayor Pro Tern Leon for supporting the effort. She stated that the organization has received thousands of calls related to immigration enforcement activity in Orange County and described the challenges faced by affected families. She shared an example of an elderly Anaheim resident and asylum seeker who experienced detention and ultimately chose to leave the country rather than risk further detention. She emphasized the human impact of immigration enforcement actions and urged the Council to support the proposed legal defense fund to help residents access legal assistance and remain connected to their families and communities. Andrew Winger urged the City to provide the Arzola family with closure by releasing information related to the case they have been raising at council meetings. He also requested that Council Member Rubalcava recuse herself from further consideration of the Festival project, citing concerns about the appearance of bias based on campaign contributions, interactions involving labor representatives, and actions taken during the project approval process. He argued that these circumstances could undermine public confidence in the fairness of the decision -making process and stated that recusal would help preserve the integrity of the proceedings. Wendy Sowski urged the Council to grant a rehearing on the Festival project, arguing that the City approved the development before completing and releasing its comprehensive wildfire evacuation study. She questioned whether sufficient information was available to fully assess evacuation risks, noting that the proposed development would add housing and traffic along key evacuation routes currently under evaluation. She distinguished between the project -level evacuation analysis and the broader citywide wildfire evacuation study, emphasizing the importance of understanding cumulative impacts during emergency conditions. She requested that the Council delay further action until the citywide study is completed and reviewed, stating that doing so would be a reasonable and responsible step to ensure public safety and informed decision -making. She concluded by expressing City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 19 of 54 concerns about wildfire risk and increased traffic congestion affecting evacuation capacity in Anaheim Hills. Andrea Phelps expressed concerns about the proposed Festival project, arguing that high -density residential developments are generally unsuitable for very high fire severity zones due to evacuation and public safety considerations. She contended that the Festival project is a dense development despite being market -rate housing and asserted that it may be denser than the previously proposed Deer Canyon project when evaluated by development footprint. She raised concerns regarding wildfire evacuation capacity, increased traffic, and higher vehicle miles traveled, while also noting that retaining the site's commercial uses could reduce travel demand for local residents. She emphasized that different districts have distinct needs and risks and urged the Council to consider the unique wildfire and transportation challenges of Anaheim Hills when evaluating housing developments in high fire hazard areas. Engler Fish Phelps expressed opposition to the Festival project, alleging that developers often use long-term strategies to increase profitability through rent increases, vacancy practices, and redevelopment of underperforming properties. He asserted that project supporters associated with the developer presented themselves as independent community members and questioned commitments made regarding labor participation. He speculated that future rent increases could affect existing commercial tenants and expressed concern that additional residential development could occur on the site in the future if commercial spaces become vacant. He urged the Council to consider these concerns when evaluating the project. Erik Garcia, Organizing and Program Director with Orale, spoke in support of expanding the Anaheim Contigo program to include immigration legal services. He drew from personal experience in immigration proceedings as a child, and emphasized the importance of access to trusted legal representation for individuals navigating the immigration system. He stated that many immigrants lack access to affordable legal counsel and argued that legal assistance can significantly affect case outcomes. He urged the City to invest in legal services through Anaheim Contigo, stating that such support would help immigrant residents navigate legal challenges, strengthen community trust, and demonstrate the City's commitment to supporting vulnerable residents during a period of increased immigration enforcement. Mark Fortezzo spoke in opposition to the proposed Festival project. He described the area's growth over several decades and noted that Anaheim Hills experiences significant traffic congestion due to its location along regional commuter routes. He shared his personal experience living through multiple wildfires and expressed concerns about evacuation challenges and public safety in the area. He stated that existing traffic conditions and wildfire risks should be carefully considered before approving additional development that could increase population density and place further strain on evacuation routes. He urged Council Members to visit the area and observe existing traffic conditions firsthand before making a decision on the project and requested that the Council prioritize resident safety and community impacts when considering the proposal. Carolina Mendez spoke in support of establishing an immigration legal defense fund of at least $250,000. Drawing on her professional experience and personal family history navigating the immigration system, she described the fear and uncertainty many immigrant families face due to immigration enforcement actions. She urged the Council to continue strengthening community support programs and emphasized that immigrant families often hesitate to seek assistance because of fear and distrust of institutions. She encouraged the Council to focus on reducing barriers to access rather than concerns about potential misuse of resources. She expressed support for expanding Anaheim Contigo services and requested that the City approach future discussions with City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 20 of 54 trust, compassion, and a commitment to supporting immigrant families and ensuring they feel valued within the community. Amina Fields, Senior Managing Attorney and Immigrant Rights Attorney with CARE, spoke in support of establishing an immigration legal defense fund. She explained that her organization provides free immigration legal services to low-income residents in Anaheim and throughout Orange County. She shared that she was a refugee who arrived in the United States from Vietnam, and emphasized the importance of community support and access to legal protections. She described challenges faced by many immigrants, including detention, high bond requirements, transfers before court hearings, language barriers, and difficulties navigating the immigration system without legal representation. She stated that an immigration legal defense fund would help ensure residents have access to due process and a fair opportunity to present their cases. She urged the Council to support the fund, describing it as an investment in the well-being of immigrant residents and the broader community Marc Herbert expressed support for the Arzola family and encouraged public participation in an upcoming Police Review Board meeting. He also voiced support for increasing funding for the proposed immigration legal defense fund, noting that the City has significant budget allocations in other areas and suggesting additional resources could be directed toward legal assistance programs. He raised concerns regarding transparency and public participation, alleging Brown Act violations and stating that previous complaints submitted to the City had not received a response. He also criticized meeting procedures, arguing that opportunities for public engagement were limited. He questioned information related to fire protection services in Anaheim Hills, citing a recently received public records response that appeared inconsistent with prior statements regarding fire engine staffing and deployment in the area. He requested clarification from City officials on the matter. Elizabeth Hansburg expressed support for the previously approved Festival project, citing the region's housing shortage and the need for additional housing opportunities throughout Anaheim. She stated that the project would provide approximately 400 housing units on the site of a former movie theater and argued that housing development should be distributed across all areas of the City rather than concentrated in western Anaheim. She contended that the project is consistent with the City's housing planning goals and housing element, and stated that adding multifamily housing in areas that have traditionally been low -density residential communities promotes housing equity and fair housing objectives. She urged the Council to uphold its prior approval of the project and not reverse its decision. Mark Richard Daniels opposed the Festival project, citing the unique geography and infrastructure constraints of Anaheim Hills. He described the history of development in Anaheim Hills and noted that fire roads and other precautions were established early due to recognized wildfire risks. He expressed concerns that the area's road network and evacuation routes are not designed to accommodate additional high -density development and argued that increased population and traffic could worsen evacuation challenges during emergencies. He stated that roadway blockages or traffic incidents could significantly hinder evacuation efforts and characterized the project as creating unnecessary public safety risks. He urged the Council to reject the project, arguing that the long-term impacts would be borne by residents while the benefits would primarily accrue to the developer. Julie Shin requested that the City Council modernize Anaheim's backyard chicken ordinance. She stated that the current regulations, particularly the 50-foot setback requirement, are overly restrictive and make it difficult for most residents to keep hens for personal food production. She noted that several neighboring cities, including Buena Park and La Mirada, have recently updated their ordinances to allow a limited number of hens with reduced setback requirements while maintaining sanitation and nuisance standards. She urged the Council to review policies adopted by surrounding City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 21 of 54 cities and consider amending Anaheim's ordinance to allow five to six hens, prohibit roosters, and establish more reasonable setback requirements. She stated that such changes would support food security, sustainability, and resident interests while bringing Anaheim's regulations more in line with those of neighboring communities. Pearl Arzola stated that their family has experienced ongoing police presence and harassment since the death of her brother Albert Arzola. She requested that the City and Police Department allow the family to grieve without continued police activity near their home and neighborhood. She criticized the City's handling of public safety issues related to the Festival project in Anaheim Hills, expressing concerns about wildfire evacuation risks, traffic congestion, and the potential impact of additional development in the area. She urged the Council to focus on addressing fire safety concerns and opposed approval of the project. She concluded by calling on Council members to pay attention to residents' concerns and prioritize public safety. Christine Lopez addressed the Council regarding the Arzola family's requests for transparency following an officer -involved shooting. She stated that while a flash drive containing information had been provided to the family, certain materials remained redacted and called for the release of the autopsy report and the involved officer's name in accordance with California law. She expressed concerns regarding communication and scheduling difficulties surrounding a proposed meeting between the family and the Mayor, stating that delays and lack of response contributed to the family's frustration. She emphasized the family's desire for answers and accountability, noting the emotional impact the incident has had on relatives and younger family members. Ariana Avalos addressed the Council in support of the Arzola family and raised concerns regarding transparency surrounding the police department's community information meeting related to the incident. She criticized the decision not to livestream the meeting and expressed concerns about the accuracy and completeness of information provided to the public. She questioned the circumstances surrounding Albert Arzola's death, arguing that the underlying incident did not warrant the outcome and emphasizing the value of his life. She referenced research on the effects of authority and power, advocating for enhanced psychological screening, training, and oversight of law enforcement officers. She expressed frustration over alleged ongoing police presence and activity near the family's residence, stating that the family continues to seek accountability and transparency following the incident. Jocelyn Pacheco expressed support for the Arzola family and called for accountability and transparency regarding the officer -involved shooting death of Albert Arzola. She questioned the circumstances surrounding the initial police contact, the timeline of information released by the police department, and the continued withholding of officer names, video footage, and autopsy information. She raised concerns about statements made by law enforcement following the incident, the detention of multiple individuals at the scene, and the impact of the incident on Arzola's family. She questioned aspects of the investigation and evidence handling, urging the City and Police Department to release additional information, including unedited video footage, the names of the involved officers, and the autopsy report. She concluded by encouraging the City to respond to community concerns and voiced support for the proposed immigration legal defense fund. David Pulido expressed support for the Arzola family and called for accountability in the officer - involved shooting death of Albert Arzola. He stated that a Public Records Act request had been submitted seeking reports, unedited video footage, officer identities, and related records, and expressed concern that the requested information had not yet been released. He criticized the pace and transparency of the investigation process, arguing that the family and community deserve timely access to information and justice. He expressed concerns about police accountability, the handling of City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 22 of 54 officer -involved investigations, and perceived disparities in the criminal justice system. He objected to the City's recognition of police personnel during the meeting, stating that it was inappropriate while concerns regarding police conduct remained unresolved. He concluded by urging the City to release the names of the involved officers and take action to ensure accountability. Art Castillo shared personal experiences working for the City of Anaheim and witnessing what he described as police misconduct and intimidation in local neighborhoods over many years. He expressed concern that similar incidents continue to occur and stated that families affected by police actions often feel unheard. He described efforts to assist community members, advocate for accountability, and engage with city leadership, but said they experienced difficulty obtaining responses from city management regarding their concerns. He noted his involvement in advocating for the establishment of the Police Review Board and encouraged greater participation by city officials and community members in the review process. He emphasized the need for dialogue between city leaders and residents regarding police -related incidents and announced plans to raise their concerns before the Police Review Board and participate in future community discussions on the issue. Matthew Compton advocated for justice and accountability regarding the death of Albert Arzola. He stated that Albert was a 19-year-old Anaheim resident with his future ahead of him and expressed support for his family, commending their continued advocacy before the City Council. He criticized the lack of publicly released information regarding the incident, including the identities of the involved officers, body camera footage, and records related to the case. He stated that public records requests had been submitted seeking this information and expressed concern about delays in receiving a response. He called for the release of records related to the incident, the identification of the officers involved, and accountability measures regarding the officers' actions. He expressed support for the Arzola family and their pursuit of justice. Abe Q expressed solidarity with the family of Albert Arzola and advocated for greater transparency and accountability regarding the police shooting incident. He requested the release of the involved officers' names, full unedited body camera footage, and related records concerning the case. He recounted the incident and expressed concern about the officers' actions, the use of force, and the treatment of family members and others present following the shooting. He questioned the handling of the investigation and asserted that the community and the Arzola family deserve additional information about the incident. He concluded by calling for transparency, accountability, and justice for Albert Arzola and other individuals affected by police -related incidents. Bryan Kaye addressed the Mayor regarding a previously discussed meeting with community members and expressed disappointment that the meeting had not occurred. He referenced prior comments encouraging respectful dialogue and urged City leadership to act in accordance with principles of honesty, accountability, and compassion. He criticized City leadership's handling of police -related incidents and alleged a lack of accountability for misconduct. He expressed concerns about the treatment of residents by law enforcement and argued that city policies and decisions have contributed to a lack of trust in local government and public safety institutions. He concluded by calling for greater transparency, accountability, and responsiveness from city leadership regarding community concerns. Mazatl Tepehyolotzin expressed concerns about the historical treatment of Indigenous peoples, including colonization, displacement, slavery, and abuses associated with mission systems and other institutions. He highlighted recent state efforts to expand Native American history education in schools and advocated for greater recognition of Indigenous perspectives and historical experiences. He also criticized individuals he believed were misrepresenting Indigenous communities and called for increased accountability and representation of Native voices in public discussions. He concluded City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 23 of 54 by urging greater acknowledgment of Indigenous history, culture, and land stewardship, and expressed support for efforts related to Indigenous rights and historical recognition. Sergio Pelayo expressed support for the family of Albert Arzola and reflected on Albert's connection to Anaheim and Orange County, noting his enthusiasm for local sports and pride in his community. He criticized the circumstances surrounding Albert's death and argued that the incident represented a failure of due process. He referenced concerns about police accountability and compared the issue to broader international discussions regarding the use of force by law enforcement. He questioned the officers' actions during the incident and asserted that greater accountability and transparency are needed. He concluded by advocating for justice for Albert Arzola and continued public scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the case. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS: Council Member Kurtz thanked the City employees who participated in the Big Give. She thanked the volunteers who participated in the cleanup at Guinida Lane. She shared that the residents requested a walking area. She noted that many participants were family members, friends, and residents contributed to the event. Council Member Kurtz shared the volunteer efforts at the Anaheim Community Foundation property to bring joy to the area used by nonprofits. She thanked the City employees and department heads who participated in the meaningful event. Council Member Maahs highlighted the East Anaheim Little League opening day on March 7th at Benito Juarez Park. She thanked the coaches, volunteers, and parents who assist with the league. She shared that Pioneer Park includes an accessible field for athletes in wheelchairs. She added that many families travel to Anaheim to access the field. Council Member Maahs thanked the City employees who participated in the Big Give. She highlighted the City employees who participated in Patriots & Paws to clean the barbecue area for veterans. Council Member Maahs reported her attendance at E. Kate Rea's 150th Birthday Celebration at the Ebell Club. She shared that Kate Rea was an educator who earned her Master's Degree from UC Berkeley. She added that she was the founder of Anaheim's first PTA and a longtime leader on the City's Library Board and secured grant funding for the Carnegie Library. She expressed her appreciation of the Ebell Club for continuing to honor her legacy. Council Member Rubalcava thanked everyone who participated during public comments. She emphasized that each vote she casts is vetted and that she approaches her responsibilities as an elected official with seriousness and diligence. She shared that she grew up in the City of Anaheim and her father worked for the City for 40 years. She explained that for each project she reviews, she considers expert testimony and staff opinions seriously. She shared that she has opposed projects that staff have not recommended. She expressed empathy for the residents in Anaheim Hills due to safety concerns; however, she assured that she would not support a project that was not safe. Council Member Rubalcava reported that she visited a charter school in District 3 to speak with students. She shared that the school is educating young minds in the City from T-K to sixth grade. She recognized Public Utilities employee Darin Strain on his retirement after 30-plus years of service. She highlighted the Public Utilities Department and the safe drinking water in the City. She emphasized the City Council's commitment to resident safety and highlighted the Public Utilities Department's pride in maintaining safe water conditions throughout the City. Council Member Rubalcava reported her attendance at groundbreaking ceremonies at local elementary schools, including Loara Elementary School's Multi -Purpose Room Innovation Center. She recognized Team Kids who developed businesses to sell tickets to donate to a local nonprofit. She thanked the Anaheim Police Department, Fire & Rescue Department, and City staff for engaging in the process. She shared that many children in District 3 come from working-class families and emphasized the City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 24 of 54 importance of providing opportunities to all in the City. She thanked Team Kids for providing access to entrepreneurial experiences. Council Member Rubalcava announced that a new taco restaurant had opened in District 3. She thanked Director of Economic Development Sergio Ramirez for ensuring that local businesses can thrive and open in the City. She thanked City staff for responding to enhanced safety initiatives in District 3, following a reported sexual assault. She reported that additional lighting was installed in the area, tree landscaping, and the HALO team had responded to ensure safety in the City. Council Member Rubalcava welcomed new resident Valentina Ceja to the City. Mayor Pro Tem Leon acknowledged and thanked the Mejia family for inviting him and the Council to their home to commemorate the one-year anniversary of their daughter's passing. He shared that the family's mission is to support and help other families. He expressed his appreciation for those who have supported the family. Mayor Pro Tem Leon shared his participation in the annual District 2 Read Across America tour. He added that he read to the current classes of his former third and fourth - grade teachers. He emphasized the importance of literacy and early education in schools and thanked the schools, administrators, and teachers for the invitation. He acknowledged City staff's continued efforts to expand access to books in the community. Mayor Pro Tem Leon reported his attendance at the Natural Products Expo West show at the Convention Center. He mentioned that the convention is the largest show hosted at the Convention Center, with tens of thousands of visitors coming to Anaheim. He recognized the Convention Center staff, Code Enforcement, and the workers across the Resort District for their work. Mayor Pro Tem Leon announced his attendance at the Barton Elementary Multi -Purpose Room groundbreaking. He shared that the opportunity highlights a collaboration between the City and school districts to create space for students and families. He shared his participation with City staff for the Big Give to clean up debris and graffiti in a District 2 neighborhood. He highlighted the impacts the event has on the community and thanked the City staff who participated. Mayor Pro Tem Leon announced his attendance at the Americana Awards. He recognized award recipients and Anaheim residents Alden and Linda Esping and their contributions to the City. He highlighted the Youth Leadership Summit that gathered high school students from across Anaheim and the County for a day of leadership, public speaking, civic engagement, and financial literacy. He noted that students participated in workshops and spoke with City leaders, including the Chairman of Disney Experiences, Thomas Mazloum. He highlighted the impact the event had on students, noting that students rated their experience positively. He expressed his commitment to the initiative and thanked everyone who assisted with the event. Including the volunteers and the District 2 office. Mayor Pro Tem Leon shared that the Welcome to Little Arabia mural was complete. He noted that the initiative was a collaboration with the Arab American Civic Council, Al Karmel Market, and students from Magnolia High School. He shared that students from Magnolia High School contributed to the mural. He expressed his appreciation for the staff who assisted with the initiative. Council Member Balius recognized the Housing and Community Development Department and Public Utilities Department for installing new lighting and securing a fence at the vacant property on Beach Boulevard. He announced the Eggstravaganza at Maxwell Park on March 281h from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. He shared that the event would be hosted by the Magnolia Baptist Church. Mayor Aitken echoed Mayor Pro Tem Leon's comments on the Americana Awards. She shared that Linda and Alden Esping are school teachers who have dedicated their lives to the City. She congratulated them on their recognition. Mayor Aitken thanked staff for participating in the Big Give to help with projects throughout all the districts. She announced that residents have the opportunity to submit posters recognizing the 250th Anniversary of the United States. She shared that the posters would reflect community pride and civic engagement in Anaheim. She noted that submissions would be collected in collaboration with the Cultural and Heritage Commission. She shared that the City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 25 of 54 submissions would be open until April 14th. She requested that the Interim City Manager share the information with the Cultural and Heritage Commission's staff liaisons to connect with Muzeo. Mayor Aitken thanked a student group with Benito Juarez for interviewing her on her role as a female Mayor. She thanked the New California Coalition for inviting her to a panel on addressing affordable housing. She shared that she participated with other mayors who have the greatest impact at the local level. CITY MANAGER'S UPDATE: Interim City Manager Greg Garcia echoed the Council's comments on the Big Give. He thanked City staff for their participation and the City Council for their support. He noted that approximately 150 volunteers participated, covering 12 projects throughout the City. He thanked AMEA and AFSCME for providing breakfast and lunch to the volunteers. He announced the Stay Housed Anaheim Program through the Anaheim Housing Authority to support emergency rental and security deposit assistance. He added that the program was authorized by the City Council when the Housing Trust was created. He reported that the program would offer residents a one-time emergency rent or security deposit assistance up to $3,000. He shared that utility assistance may also be provided. He highlighted the program and noted that it is unique to Anaheim. Interim City Manager Garcia announced that AMEA requested that Item No. 22 be withdrawn from the agenda. He stated that, out of deference to AMEA, staff would withdraw the item from Council consideration. Without objection, Mayor Aitken took the meeting out of order to consider City Council Business Calendar Item No. 27. At 8:50 p.m., Mayor Aitken recessed the Anaheim Public Financing Authority, Anaheim Housing and Public Improvements Authority and Anaheim Housing Authority to address City Council Business Calendar Item No. 27. BUSINESS CALENDAR: R100 27. RESOLUTION NO. _ 2026-021_ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the dates and times for regular meetings of the Anaheim City Council for the 2026 calendar year and rescinding Resolution No. 2025-095 [rescheduling the meeting of June 16 to June 23, 2026]. MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. __ 2026-021_ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the dates and times for regular meetings of the Anaheim City Council for the 2026 calendar year and rescinding Resolution No. 2025-095 [rescheduling the meeting of June 16 to June 23, 2026], seconded by Council Member Balius. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. At 8:51, Mayor Atiken recessed the Anaheim City Council to address the Anaheim Public Financing Authority, Anaheim Housing and Public Improvements Authority, and Anaheim Housing Authority agendas, and reconvened at 9:02 p.m. CONSENT CALENDAR: The Consent Calendar was considered with Council Member Kurtz pulling Item Nos. 15, 17, and 19, Council Member Meeks pulling Item No. 20, and Mayor Aitken pulling Item Nos 24 and 25. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 26 of 54 MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to waive reading of the ordinances and resolutions and adopt the balance of the consent calendar as presented, in accordance with reports, certifications, and recommendations furnished each City Council Member, seconded by Council Member Maahs. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. B105 9. Receive and file minutes of the Anaheim Tourism Improvement District Advisory Board meetings of October 16, 2025 and January 15, 2026, the Cultural and Heritage Commission of January 15, 2026, the Older Adults Commission meeting of January 15, 2026, the Public Utilities Board meeting of January 28, 2026, and the Sister City Commission meeting of January 26, 2026. D116 10. Approve certificates recognizing Blake's Place for 30 years of business in Anaheim; Anaheim resident Alexa Smith from Orange Lutheran High School for her achievement of becoming a CIF -SS Masters Champion in wrestling; Sydney Tran from El Rancho Charter School for winning the Orange County Spelling Bee for a second consecutive year and for representing Orange County at the national spelling bee in Washington, D.C.; Savanna High School Girls Basketball for winning their CIF Division Championship; the owners of Superior Laundry and LaundryUp for partnering with the Anaheim Union High School District to provide students access to free laundry services; Disneyland Resort's 70th Anniversary; and Canyon High School's Connor Shim who has been named a semifinalist in the Music Center's 38th Annual Spotlight Program. D116 11 Receive and file, with the possibility of discussion, the list of Professional Services Agreements authorized by the City Manager and the list of Visit Anaheim Subcontractor Agreements approved by the Executive Director of Convention, Sports, and Entertainment for February 2026. C410 12. Approve the 2025 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports and direct the Planning and Building Director to submit the reports to the California Department of Housing and Community Development and the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, formerly the Governor's Office of Planning and Research. D180 13. Waive the sealed bidding requirement of Council Policy 4.0 and authorize the issuance of a Purchase Order to Stryker Sales, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $172,378.47 inclusive of all applicable taxes and fees, for the purchase of Lucas chest compression systems, accessories and preventative maintenance for Anaheim Fire and Rescue and authorize the Purchasing Agent to execute all necessary contractual documents. AGR-1588214 Approve Amended and Restated Master Agreement Contract No. 106-498828 with Crisp Enterprises Inc., dba Crisp Imaging for as -needed citywide reprographics services, increasing the current Master Agreement by $150,000 thereby amending the not to exceed amount from $100,000 to $250,000 for the term effective September 1, 2025 through June 11, 2026, with three one-year optional extensions in the amount not to exceed $360,000 annually thereafter, including applicable taxes and fees, for a cumulative total not to exceed of $1,330,000; authorize the Purchasing Agent to execute all necessary contractual documents related to the City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 27 of 54 agreement in accordance with the competitively solicited City of Long Beach Contract No. 36905; and ratify a change order to the Master Agreement with Crisp Enterprises, Inc., dba Crisp Imaging, increasing the contract amount by $152,863.18 from $277,020 to $480,000 for citywide reprographics services from December 1, 2023, through August 31, 2025. AGR-15885 16. Approve the Joint Agreement with the County of Orange for the implementation and operation of the Orange County Automated Fingerprint Identification System, with an estimated first year cost of $155,616, with future annual costs to be determined by the County of Orange OC-RAN Board and negotiated by the parties, for recurring periods of ten (10) years unless terminated by either party; and authorize the Chief of Police, or designee, to execute and administer the agreement. AGR-15886 18. Approve the Amended and Restated National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Stormwater Permit Implementation Agreement with the County of Orange for stormwater compliance activities; and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to approve the annual operating budget each year [City's cost share for Fiscal Year 2025/26 is $560,000 with an anticipated increase of 5% to 10% annually; approval of the Implementation Agreement is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378, as it involves administrative and organizational actions that do not result in direct physical changes to the environment]. AGR-15892 21. Authorize participation in additional proposed opioid litigation settlements with six regional distributors/dispensers, acceptance of the anticipated allocation plans, and direct receipt of the settlement funds; and authorize the City Attorney to effectuate the City's acceptance of the settlements by executing participation agreements and any related documentation necessary to complete the settlements [Associated Pharmacies, Inc. and American Associated Pharmacies, J M Smith Corporation, Louisiana Wholesale Drug Company, Inc., Morris and Dickson Co., North Carolina Mutual Wholesale Drug Company, Inc., and United Natural Foods, Inc. and its subsidiaries SuperValu and Advantage Logistics) (collectively the "Remnant Defendants"]. D154 22. Implement the Segal Company, Western States, Inc. (Segal) Citywide classification and compensation study, Phase I, by realigning base salary ranges for specified classifications within the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association Part -Time and Executive Management groups to support the City's recruitment and retention strategy, while addressing internal equity and compensation compaction. RESOLUTION NO. _ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2025-030, as amended, for the purpose of increasing salaries pursuant to the State of California minimum wage requirements, modifying pay policies for classifications designated as Non -Represented Part -Time, and amending certain Non -Represented Part -Time and Executive Management compensation plans to align with the City's adopted market -position strategy. RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2026-006, for the purpose of modifying pay City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 28 of 54 policies for certain classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, General Employees. RESOLUTION NO. ___ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2026-007, for the purpose of modifying pay policies for certain classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, Clerical Employees. RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2022-138, for the purpose of amending salary ranges for certain classifications represented by the Anaheim Municipal Employees Association, Part -Time Employees. RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2023-081, for the purpose of modifying pay policies for certain classifications represented by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Local 2002, General Management Unit. RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Resolution No. 2023-082, for the purpose of modifying pay policies for certain classifications represented by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Local 2002, Professional/Technical Management Unit. Item No. 22 was withdrawn by staff. M142 23. ORDINANCE NO. 6624 __ (INTRODUCTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY AGR-15889 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM repealing and replacing Chapter 10.24 (Water System Cross -Connections) of the Anaheim Municipal Code to align local and state -mandated public water system cross connection control requirements. RESOLUTION NO. 2026-022 _ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting modifications, which do not increase rates or fees, to Rule Nos. 11 and 16 of the Water Rates, Rules and Regulations, as originally adopted by Resolution No. 72R-600 and most recently amended by Resolution No. 2024-023, and making determinations under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"). RESOLUTION NO. 2026-023 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting modifications, which do not increase rates or fees, to Rule Nos. 16 and 22 of the Electric Rates, Rules and Regulations, as originally adopted by Resolution No. 71 R-478 and most recently amended by Resolution No. 2024-022, and making determinations under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"). Approve the Generation Interconnection Agreement for the interconnection of generating facilities to Anaheim's electric system and authorize the Public Utilities General Manager or designee, to (a) execute the Agreement from time to time with generating facility owners with City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 29 of 54 any changes that are authorized by Rule No. 22, required by the Risk Manager, or deemed nonmaterial by the City Attorney's Office; (b) execute all related or implementing documents, including cost -neutral amendments, assignments, and documents contemplated by the Agreement; and (c) take all actions necessary or advisable to implement and administer executed Agreements; and determine that the adoption of the Ordinance and Resolutions and approval of the Agreement are not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because the actions do not constitute a "project" within the meaning of CEQA Guidelines (California Code Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3) Sections 15060(c)(2)-(3) and 15378 in that they are regulatory/administrative actions that establish standards and contractual terms and do not approve, commit Anaheim to, or result in any physical changes to the environment and that, to the extent any of the actions could be considered a "project," they are exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines sections 15061(b)(3) and 15301-15304. D114 26. Approve minutes of the Council meeting of January 13, 2026. BUSINESS CALENDAR: AGR-15883 15. Approve a Canine Transfer Release and Agreement to Indemnify, Defend and Hold Harmless AGR-15884 with Officer Brandon Mullins and Sergeant Nathaniel Cox authorizing the transfer of ownership of retiring Police Service Dogs "Rebel" and "Zax," respectively; and authorize the Chief of Police to execute and implement the agreements. DISCUSSION: Council Member Kurtz thanked Rebel and Zax for their service and the officers and families that will be taking care of them in their retirement. MOTION: Council Member Kurtz moved to approve a Canine Transfer Release and Agreement to Indemnify, Defend and Hold Harmless with Officer Brandon Mullins and Sergeant Nathaniel Cox authorizing the transfer of ownership of retiring Police Service Dogs "Rebel" and "Zax," respectively; and authorize the Chief of Police to execute and implement the agreements, seconded by Council Member Meeks, ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. AGR-1458.07. Approve the Agreement for Provision of OC Animal Care Services with the County of Orange AGR-1458.M.0.1 for a five year term commencing May 31, 2026 through May 30, 2031, with the City responsible for paying the County the Net Cost of providing agreed upon Animal Care Services specified in the Animal Care Notice of Intent approved annually; approve the Animal Care Notice of Intent, in substantial form, for Animal Care Special Services, Animal Care Shelter Services, and Barking Dog Complaint Services for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, at an estimated cost of $5,788,082 plus a 10% contingency; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the Notice of Intent, as determined by the City Attorney's Office. Planning and Building Director Heather Allen reported that since 1989, the City of Anaheim has contracted with the County of Orange to provide animal care services, including field, shelter, and licensing services. In 2016 Anaheim became a participating City for the funding and construction of the regional animal shelter in the City of Tustin. She stated that there are two actions under City Council consideration, first is approval of the new agreement for provision of OC Animal Care City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 30 of 54 Services; the second is approval of the Notice of Intent. Director Allen reported that the Orange County Board of Supervisors approved this master agreement on February 24, 2026 for consideration by the 14 contract cities. She added that the master agreement establishes a defined five-year term, replacing the current 10-year evergreen agreement expiring May 30, 2026, consolidates remaining provisions related to the Participation Agreement for shelter construction into a single contract structure, improves financial transparency through stabilized billing practices and enhanced monthly reporting, provides service category flexibility that would allow cities to opt in or out of certain service components, and provides a mechanism for new cities to participate if regional service capacity expands. She noted that OC Animal Care has also committed to improving communication and operational transparency with contract cities through enhanced reporting and Collaboration throughout the contract term. Director Allen stated that Notice of Intent (NOI) is the annual process, wherein the County provides estimated net costs for services to the City for next fiscal year commencing July 1. The NOI represents a projection based on the most recent service utilization and revenue data available. She added that the City's costs are ultimately based on actual services provided by the County, less actual revenues generated. She stated that services provided include Animal Control Services, Animal Care Special Services, Animal Care Shelter Services, and Barking Dog Complaint Services. Director Allen reported that staff recommends approval of the new agreement for OC Animal Care Services and the NOI to ensure continuity of animal care and shelter services consistent with state and federal statutes and Title 8 of the Anaheim Municipal Code. DISCUSSION: Council Member Kurtz noted receiving frequent constituent complaints regarding animal -related issues, particularly stray cats and dogs, and asked staff to explain changes that have been made to the feral cat policy in recent years. Director Allen explained that the County's animal services program does not currently include a trap - neuter -return (TNR) program for feral cats. He noted that if the Council is interested in exploring such a program, it would need to be considered separately from the current contract action and could be brought back for future Council discussion. In response to Council Member Kurtz, OC Animal Care Director Monica Schmidt explained that the County's animal services contract does not currently include TNR services. She stated that, if the Council is interested in pursuing a TNR program, it would require separate consideration and could be brought back for future discussion. She added that County Counsel previously determined that TNR is prohibited under its interpretation of California Penal Code Section 597.1. As a result, the County does not offer TNR services. She noted that individual cities may consult their own legal counsel regarding the issue and could potentially contract with outside providers, such as low-cost veterinary clinics or nonprofit spay/neuter organizations, to offer TNR-related services if legally permissible. She added that TNR remains a recognized animal welfare tool and that future legislative or legal developments could affect the County's position on the practice. Council Member Kurtz relayed concerns received from residents regarding animal control response times. She stated that residents have reported incidents involving loose dogs in neighborhoods that frightened children, but were told by dispatch that, due to traffic and travel times, the animals would likely be gone before officers could arrive and therefore no response would be sent. She also noted reports from residents who were told that no animal control officers were available for dispatch at the time of their call and were advised to call back if the issue occurred again. She expressed concern City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 31 of 54 about these responses and their effectiveness in addressing public safety concerns related to stray or loose animals. Ms. Schmidt clarified that field officers are deployed throughout the county during both daytime and evening shifts and are assigned to service areas rather than waiting at the shelter for dispatch. She stated that reports of residents being told no response would be sent due to travel time do not reflect department procedures and encouraged residents receiving such information to request a supervisor. She explained that supervisors can reallocate additional animal control officers or assistants to areas experiencing high call volumes. She added that officers are equipped to respond to multiple calls before returning to the shelter, as animal control vehicles can safely transport several animals at once. She noted that calls are prioritized based on public safety concerns, similar to police dispatch systems. She stated that the highest -priority responses include aggressive loose animals, requests for assistance from police or fire personnel, and other situations posing immediate threats to public safety, with lower -priority calls addressed as resources become available. In response to Council Member Kurtz, Ms. Schmidt stated that information about available services is provided through the agency's website and noted that the City of Anaheim's website includes basic information and directs residents to the Animal Services website for additional details. She indicated that educational materials and informational flyers covering the full range of services are available and can be provided to the City for distribution to residents. Council Member Kurtz requested access to those materials. Mayor Aitken requested County Counsel's legal opinion on the TNR program Ms. Schmidt explained that she could not disclose the County's legal opinion but would connect the City Attorney's Office with County Counsel. Council Member Maahs expressed support for the animal services contract and acknowledged improvements made since the pandemic, including addressing concerns regarding limited visitation hours. She praised the quality of the current animal shelter facility and highlighted several community programs offered by Animal Services, including a monthly drive -through pet food pantry, affordable microchipping services, affordable vaccinations, and a new pilot program called "Dog Day Out." She requested additional information on the Dog Day Out program. Ms. Schmidt provided an overview of the new "Dog Day Out" pilot program, which launched on March 26. The free program allows community members to take shelter dogs on outings to pet -friendly locations, such as parks, walking trails, outdoor patios, and local businesses. She explained that participating dogs wear highly visible "Adopt Me" vests, which help generate public interest and conversations about adoption opportunities. Prior to launch, the program was tested with volunteers to identify and address operational issues. She reported that the pilot has already resulted in successful dog adoptions and strong community interest, with the first two weeks of participation fully booked. She expressed enthusiasm for expanding awareness of the program and encouraging Anaheim residents to participate. In response to Council Member Maahs, Ms. Schmidt confirmed that pet adoptions are available free of charge year-round through the shelter. She added that the shelter is open daily for adoptions from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., providing accessibility for a variety of schedules. She noted that veterans are eligible for waived adoption fees under a state Senate Bill and may receive discounted adoption rates if they do not qualify under the program. She added that discounted adoption fees are available for senior residents. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 32 of 54 Council Member Maahs shared that a friend of hers is a veterinary nurse instructor at a local college and commended the OC Animal Care. In response to Council Member Balius, Ms. Schmidt clarified that wildlife -related responses are generally limited to situations involving threats to public safety. She stated that the agency typically responds to cases involving raccoons, opossums, or other wildlife trapped inside a residence, particularly because raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies. She explained that the agency does not typically respond to nuisance wildlife issues involving animals such as roof rats, mice, or squirrels. She added that for wildlife concerns, priority is given to animals that are sick, injured, aggressive, trapped, or otherwise pose a threat to public safety. She emphasized that the department does not seek to indiscriminately remove wildlife and instead focuses first on public education, helping residents understand how to safely coexist with wildlife and determine when intervention may be necessary. She added that OC Animal Care would respond to calls for raccoons or possums. Council Member Balius requested information on any low-cost spay and neuter services for residents who have dogs or cats. Ms. Schmidt explained that the agency operates a full -service veterinary clinic staffed by licensed veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians, and veterinary assistants; however, the clinic is dedicated exclusively to animals in the shelter's care. She noted that caring for more than 15,000 animals annually requires significant veterinary resources, including a high volume of spay and neuter surgeries for adoptable animals. She added that while they do not provide public spay and neuter services, staff stated that residents are provided with information on community resources, including organizations that offer low-cost spay and neuter services. She also noted that shelter hosts three low-cost vaccination, microchipping, and wellness clinics each month on its campus to help residents access affordable pet care services. Mayor Pro Tern Leon thanked OC Animal Care for its participation in community events, including older adult appreciation events, and for its efforts to promote pet adoptions. He raised concerns about cats being abandoned in neighborhoods and commercial areas, noting that business owners sometimes report individuals dropping off cats at their properties, resulting in growing populations of stray cats. He requested information about procedures or resources are available for business owners facing this type of situation and how OC Animal Care would respond to such reports. Ms. Schmidt explained that responses to reports of cats being abandoned at businesses depend on the specific circumstances. She noted that if abandonment is suspected, field officers would first seek evidence such as security camera footage, witness information, or license plate numbers, as animal abandonment is illegal. She stated that the agency prioritizes intake of cats that are sick, injured, aggressive, pose a public safety threat, are underage kittens, nursing mothers with litters, pregnant cats, or otherwise in need of assistance. She explained that the agency prioritizes intake of cats that are sick, injured, aggressive, pose a public safety threat, are underage kittens, nursing mothers with litters, pregnant cats, or otherwise in need of assistance. She added that they focuses its limited resources on assisting cats that are most vulnerable or at risk, including those involved in confirmed abandonment cases. In response to Mayor Pro Tem Leon, Director Allen explained that if the contract is not approved, there would not be an alternative to the contract. She noted that Anaheim has historically received quarterly reports from Orange County Animal Care along with quarterly billing information. She shared that under the new contract, participating cities have expressed a desire for greater transparency, more detailed reporting, and more frequent updates tailored to each jurisdiction. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 33 of 54 Mayor Pro Tern Leon expressed appreciation for Orange County Animal Care's commitment to enhanced reporting and requested that key service data be shared with the City on a regular basis, potentially on a quarterly basis, to help inform councilmembers and residents about service trends and outcomes. He acknowledged a recent neighborhood cat -related issue in District 2, noting that City Code Enforcement staff worked collaboratively with Orange County Animal Care to address resident concerns. He thanked both Orange County Animal Care and City staff for their responsiveness and ongoing partnership in serving the community. Council Member Rubalcava acknowledged and thanked Orange County Animal Care for implementing significant improvements since its previous appearance before the Council. She noted shared concerns raised by colleagues regarding ongoing service issues and expressed hope that continued planning efforts would lead to further enhancements. She raised concerns about increasing coyote activity in District 3, noting that residents have reported a significant rise in coyote sightings and related concerns. She inquired about the protocols Orange County Animal Care follows when receiving coyote -related calls and inquiries from residents. Ms. Schmidt explained that coyote -related calls are initially addressed through public education. She noted that while Anaheim maintains its own coyote management plan, Orange County Animal Care supports residents by providing information, documenting sightings, and sharing reports with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), which has primary oversight of wildlife management. She noted that they partner with CDFW and local cities on community outreach efforts, including town halls and educational presentations. She added that staff provide guidance to residents on preventing wildlife activity by reducing attractants on private property and educating callers on appropriate coyote hazing techniques. She reported that when coyote sightings are reported, staff assess whether the animal is responding to hazing, becoming habituated to human presence, or exhibiting aggressive behavior. She explained that, depending on the circumstances, Animal Services may dispatch an officer to evaluate the situation and coordinate with CDFW when further action is necessary. She added that the agency responds to reports involving sick, injured, or aggressive wildlife, including coyotes, and works with CDFW to determine appropriate next steps. Council Member Rubalcava expressed appreciation for OC Animal Care's collaborative approach to addressing coyote -related concerns, emphasizing the importance of ensuring residents are not turned away when seeking assistance. She noted that while coyotes are generally not harmful, there have been instances of aggressive behavior and situations where multiple coyotes have established dens beneath residential properties, requiring intervention. She thanked OC Animal Care for participating in community events. Ms. Schmidt expressed appreciation for the partnership with Anaheim's Family Resource Center mobile events, noting that providing pet tags to residents is an important service. She explained that identification tags help reunite lost pets with their owners more quickly, particularly for residents who may not otherwise be able to afford them. She added that approximately one in three pets will become lost during their lifetime and providing pets with tags and current contact information significantly increases the likelihood of a rapid return home and helps reduce the time animals spend in shelters. Council Member Rubalcava shared her personal experience locating a lost dog through OC Animal Care and expressed appreciation for their service. In response to Council Member Kurtz, Ms. Schmidt explained that contract costs are based on each city's actual utilization of services rather than a flat fee or population -based formula. She reported that billing is determined by factors such as the number of field service responses, resident service City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 34 of 54 requests, support provided to first responders, the number of animals received from the city, and the length of time animals remain in shelter care. She noted that while annual cost estimates are provided, actual expenses may vary slightly depending on service usage throughout the year, ensuring that each jurisdiction pays in proportion to the services it receives. She explained that annual cost estimates are based on the most recent 12 months of actual service utilization. She noted that it is due to service demand fluctuating from year to year, actual costs may increase or decrease depending on factors such as changes in wildlife -related calls, barking dog complaints, and other service requests. She reported that reports will break down service usage by category and compare the most recent 12 months of activity with the previous two full fiscal years, allowing staff and City officials to monitor trends and track whether service utilization is increasing or decreasing over time. Council Member Kurtz requested copies of the reports once received. Director Allen reported that a review of the previous five years showed actual animal care service costs have varied both above and below annual estimates. She explained that in three of the five years, actual costs were below the estimated amount, while in two years (FY 2021/22 and FY 2022/23), costs exceeded estimates by approximately 7% and 4%, respectively. She noted that service rates remain consistent, and fluctuations in total cost are primarily driven by the volume of services utilized by the City. MOTION: Council Member Kurtz moved to approve the Agreement for Provision of OC Animal Care Services with the County of Orange for a five year term commencing May 31, 2026 through May 30, 2031, with the City responsible for paying the County the Net Cost of providing agreed upon Animal Care Services specified in the Animal Care Notice of Intent approved annually; approve the Animal Care Notice of Intent, in substantial form, for Animal Care Special Services, Animal Care Shelter Services, and Barking Dog Complaint Services for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, at an estimated cost of $5,788,082 plus a 10% contingency; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the Notice of Intent, as determined by the City Attorney's Office, seconded by Council Member Maahs. DISCUSSION: In response to Council Member Balius, Director Allen confirmed staff have data available for the total number of calls. MOTION: Council Member Kurtz moved to approve the Agreement for Provision of OC Animal Care Services with the County of Orange for a five year term commencing May 31, 2026 through May 30, 2031, with the City responsible for paying the County the Net Cost of providing agreed upon Animal Care Services specified in the Animal Care Notice of Intent approved annually; approve the Animal Care Notice of Intent, in substantial form, for Animal Care Special Services, Animal Care Shelter Services, and Barking Dog Complaint Services for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, at an estimated cost of $5,788,082 plus a 10% contingency; and authorize de minimis changes that do not substantially change the terms and conditions of the Notice of Intent, as determined by the City Attorney's Office, seconded by Council Member Maahs. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 35 of 54 AGR-15887 19. Approve the Waste Infrastructure System Enterprise Agreement with the County of Orange for solid waste disposal services, effective July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2036, with one 10-year optional extension for a three (3) year progressive rate of $67/ton (July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027), $74/ton (July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2028), and $81 /ton (July 1, 2028 through June 30, 2029) subject to a rate adjustment each July 1 beginning 2029 equal to the percentage change in the consumer price index; and authorize the Director of Public Works, or designee, to execute the agreement and any other related documents and take any and all actions as are necessary, required, or advisable to implement and administer the Agreement. Public Works Director Rudy Emami reported that the proposed Waste Infrastructure System Enterprise (WISE) Agreement would replace the City's current waste disposal agreement, set to expire on June 30, 2026, and would ensure Anaheim's continued access to the County's landfill system. He stated that the County operates three active landfills and approximately 20 closed sites. He noted that the City of Anaheim relies on the system, disposing over half a million tons of solid waste annually. He stated that over the past year, the County of Orange and a subcommittee of the Orange County City Managers Association have worked extensively to negotiate the terms of the new agreement. He explained that the negotiations were necessary due to the County's rising operational costs, increased regulatory requirements, landfill expansion needs, and long-term post -closure that were not fully accounted for under the prior rate structure. Director Emami reported that the proposed WISE agreement includes a phased increase in landfill disposal per ton rates over the first three years, beginning in FY 2026/27. He noted that while the initial increase of 53% is significant, the disposal costs represent only 23% of a typical customer's monthly bill. He added that the remaining 77% is related to collection and hauling services. He explained that as a result, the impact on customers is not a direct increase to the trash bill. He reported that to further mitigate the immediate financial impact on residents and businesses, the City is proposing a rate smoothing strategy by utilizing sanitation reserves. He explained that the approach would spread the increase more gradually with incremental adjustments of approximately 5% per year over a five year period, rather than passing through the full cost increase at once. He added that staff would return to the City Council with a recommended fee rate schedule for FY 2026/27 as part of the annual fee adoption process. He noted several key provisions negotiated by the City Managers Association to negotiate several key provisions to protect cities in the new WISE agreement. He noted that it includes increased financial transparency, a "True -Up" process that allows for review of the County's cost recovery, and flexibility for cities to pursue alternative organic waste processing options. He concluded that the agreement secures long-term disposal capacity for residents and businesses of Anaheim and incorporates important safeguards for cities to help residents with a predictable, stabilized rate spread over five years to mitigate the impact of cost increase. DISCUSSION: Council Member Kurtz thanked staff for recognizing the impact that a 25% rate increase would have on residents and businesses and for developing a phased approach to lessen the immediate financial burden. She acknowledged that the increase would still be felt but appreciated the effort to ease the transition. She requested confirmation that the phased implementation would apply to both residential and business customers and requested additional information regarding the reserve funds available to help support and stabilize rates over the five-year period. Director Emami explained that the sanitation enterprise fund reserves are maintained at an industry - standard level equivalent to approximately three months of operating expenses. He added that the reserves provide financial stability and ensure continuity of services during emergencies, economic City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 36 of 54 disruptions, or other unforeseen events. He confirmed that the City plans to use a portion of these reserves to help phase in the rate increases over several years. Anaheim is in a unique position because it administers its own utility billing, allowing the City to use reserves to smooth the impact of the increase on residents and businesses. He added that unlike other cities where the hauler bills customers directly and rate increases take effect immediately, Anaheim can spread the cost increases over time to reduce the immediate financial burden on ratepayers. In response to Council Member Balius, Director Emami explained that Orange County operates the region's landfills and that, if the City did not enter into the agreement, waste would need to be transported outside the County. He added that while alternative facilities would still be subject to the same state regulations and associated costs, transporting waste farther distances would add significant transportation expenses, resulting in higher costs for residents. Council Member Balius requested confirmation that the County landfill is the most affordable option and when the County sites would be full. Director Emami clarified that while rate increases are being smoothed over a five-year period, the proposed agreement is a 10-year contract. He explained that the County maintains projections for the remaining life of its landfill sites but does not have definitive closure dates. He noted that he Brea Olinda Landfill is expected to be the first facility to reach capacity. He explained that once it closes, waste will need to be transported to landfills in South County, and current expansion projects at those facilities are intended to accommodate future disposal needs. MOTION: Council Member Kurtz moved to approve the Waste Infrastructure System Enterprise Agreement with the County of Orange for solid waste disposal services, effective July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2036, with one 10-year optional extension for a three (3) year progressive rate of $67/ton (July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027), $74/ton (July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2028), and $81/ton (July 1, 2028 through June 30, 2029) subject to a rate adjustment each July 1 beginning 2029 equal to the percentage change in the consumer price index; and authorize the Director of Public Works, or designee, to execute the agreement and any other related documents and take any and all actions as are necessary, required, or advisable to implement and administer the Agreement, seconded by Council Member Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. AGR-15888 20. Approve an Agreement with Harris & Associates, Inc., in the amount of $196,890 plus a 15% contingency for a total amount not to exceed $226,423.50, to provide engineering design services related to the Anaheim West Tower Bollards Project; authorize the Director of Public Works, or designee, to execute the agreement and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement; and amend the Fire & Rescue Department's budget by $226,424 from restricted FEMA Emergency Operations Center Grant Funds. DISCUSSION: Council Member Meeks requested additional information on the design of the project. Public Works Director Rudy Emami explained that consistent with the approach taken for projects in Anaheim, the Department intends to go an extra step to enhance the overall quality and presentation. Council Member Meeks noted that at Angel Stadium, similar structures were designed to resemble baseballs, but space constraints make that approach impractical for the project. She added that the City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 37 of 54 goal is to ensure the project is aesthetically pleasing and serves as an upgrade to the community rather than appearing purely utilitarian. MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to approve an Agreement with Harris & Associates, Inc., in the amount of $196,890 plus a 15% contingency for a total amount not to exceed $226,423.50, to provide engineering design services related to the Anaheim West Tower Bollards Project; authorize the Director of Public Works, or designee, to execute the agreement and related documents and to take the necessary actions to implement and administer the agreement; and amend the Fire & Rescue Department's budget by $226,424 from restricted FEMA Emergency Operations Center Grant Funds, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Leon. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. C410 24. Deny the request for a rehearing of the City Council's administrative decisions associated with the Anaheim Hills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043), which was considered at the public hearing held on January 13, 2026, with the project consideration concluding with City Council action on March 3, 2026. DISCUSSION: In response to Mayor Aitken, City Attorney Fabela explained that the administrative remedy process was established by the Council to provide participants with a local avenue for seeking redress if they are dissatisfied with a decision. He added that if the administrative remedy does not resolve the issue, participants may file a lawsuit. He reported that an alternative approach would be to eliminate the administrative step and allow participants to proceed directly to court. Mayor Aitken sought clarification regarding voting on Item Nos. 24 and 25. City Attorney Fabela explained that there are specific legal criteria for granting a rehearing. He advised that it would be consistent and appropriate for a Council Member to vote in favor of Item 24 while voting against Item 25. In response to Mayor Aitken, City Attorney Fabela explained that, under the ordinance, the rehearing process is a prerequisite to filing a lawsuit. He explained that denying the rehearing request satisfies that requirement and allows the applicant to pursue legal action following the vote. Mayor Aitken questioned whether the rehearing requirement is necessary, noting that it appears to add an extra procedural step before petitioners can file a lawsuit. She proposed revisiting the issue during future municipal code updates and discussing whether the requirement should be modified or removed. Director Allen confirmed that staff can evaluate the policy and return to Council. MOTION: Mayor Aitken moved to deny the request for a rehearing of the City Council's administrative decisions associated with the Anaheim Hills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043), which was considered at the public hearing held on January 13, 2026, with the project consideration concluding with City Council action on March 3, 2026, seconded by Council Member Kurtz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 38 of 54 C410 25. ORDINANCE NO. 6622 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting amendments to the Anaheim Hills Festival Specific Plan No. 90-1 (SP 90-1) and Chapter 18.108 (Festival Specific Plan No. 90-1 (SP 90-1) Zoning and Development Standards) of Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code and amending Ordinance Nos. 5109 and 5110, as previously amended (Amendment No. 6 to the Festival Specific Plan) (DEV2023-00043, introduced at the Council meeting of March 3, 2026 Public Hearing Item No. 10). ORDINANCE NO. _ 6623 _ (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting Development Agreement No. 2025-00001 by and between the City of Anaheim and OTR, an Ohio Partnership, and making certain findings related thereto (DEV2023-00043, introduced at the Council meeting of March 3, 2026 Public Hearing Item No. 10). MOTION: Mayor Aitken moved to deny the adoption of Ordinance Nos. 6622 and 6623. City Attorney Fabela clarified that a `yes' vote would be contrary to the staff recommendation and would result in denial or non -approval of the ordinance and a `no' vote would allow the Council to consider approval of the ordinance through a subsequent motion and vote. In response to Council Member Rubalcava, City Attorney Fabela clarified that Council Member Meeks can vote based on the new motion for consideration. Council Member Kurtz requested clarification on the motion. Council Member Rubalcava and Mayor Aitken clarified that a `no' vote would be to deny the project. MOTION: Mayor Aitken moved to deny the adoption of Ordinance Nos. 6622 and 6623, seconded by Council Member Meeks. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 3 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Maahs and Meeks); NOES — 4 (Mayor Pro Tern Leon and Council Members Balius, Rubalcava, and Kurtz). Motion failed. MOTION: Council Member Rubalcava moved to adopt ORDINANCE NO. ____ 6622 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting amendments to the Anaheim Hills Festival Specific Plan No. 90-1 (SP 90-1) and Chapter 18.108 (Festival Specific Plan No. 90-1 (SP 90-1) Zoning and Development Standards) of Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code and amending Ordinance Nos. 5109 and 5110, as previously amended (Amendment No. 6 to the Festival Specific Plan) (DEV2023-00043, introduced at the Council meeting of March 3, 2026 Public Hearing Item No. 10) and ORDINANCE NO. _ 6623 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting Development Agreement No. 2025-00001 by and between the City of Anaheim and OTR, an Ohio Partnership, and making certain findings related thereto (DEV2023-00043, introduced at the Council meeting of March 3, 2026 Public Hearing Item No. 10). ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 4 (Mayor Pro Tern Leon and Council Members Balius, Rubalcava, and Kurtz; NOES — 3 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Maahs and Meeks). DISCUSSION: Council Member Rubalcava addressed concerns regarding potential bias, noting that the matter had been reviewed by the City Attorney and Ethics Officer, who determined that she was eligible to participate in the vote. She stated that voting decisions are made based on careful review City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 39 of 54 of each project and referenced a previous project that was not supported due to staff concerns and safety issues. She distinguished the current proposal as an infill project that has received support from city staff, including fire, traffic, police, and planning departments. She expressed confidence in the recommendations of city experts, support for projects that are completed safely and efficiently, and appreciation for staff, the City Attorney, and the Ethics Officer for their assistance and review. Mayor Pro Tern Leon thanked all participants who spoke on the item and reaffirmed a commitment to work with Public Works and OCTA staff on both short-term and long-term solutions to address identified community concerns, regardless of the project's outcome. MOTION: Council Member Rubalcava moved to adopt ORDINANCE NO. _ 6622 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting amendments to the Anaheim Hills Festival Specific Plan No. 90-1 (SP 90-1) and Chapter 18.108 (Festival Specific Plan No. 90-1 (SP 90-1) Zoning and Development Standards) of Title 18 of the Anaheim Municipal Code and amending Ordinance Nos. 5109 and 5110, as previously amended (Amendment No. 6 to the Festival Specific Plan) (DEV2023-00043, introduced at the Council meeting of March 3, 2026 Public Hearing Item No. 10) and ORDINANCE NO. _ 6623 (ADOPTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving and adopting Development Agreement No. 2025-00001 by and between the City of Anaheim and OTR, an Ohio Partnership, and making certain findings related thereto (DEV2023-00043, introduced at the Council meeting of March 3, 2026 Public Hearing Item No. 10). ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 4 (Mayor Pro Tern Leon and Council Members Balius, Rubalcava, and Kurtz; NOES — 3 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Maahs and Meeks). Motion carried. Ordinances adopted. The City Council took a brief recess at 9:53 p.m. and reconvened at 9:59 p.m. D116 28• Receive an update on funding for the Anaheim Contigo program; provide direction to staff on AGR-15891 establishing an immigration legal defense component to support Anaheim residents, including the scope of services and contract amount; and authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with a nonprofit legal provider, in the estimated range of $50,000 to $100,000 depending on the scope and demand, to launch and implement the immigration legal defense component accordingly. Interim City Manager Garcia reported the item is a follow-up from the previous Council meeting based on direction from Council to address a legal defense fund for the Anaheim Contigo program. He reported that significant work had been completed since the prior discussion. Director of Community Services Sjany Larson -Cash provided an update on the Anaheim Contigo Program and the proposed establishment of an immigration legal defense component. She reported that the program was approved in July 2025 with $250,000 in funding to assist Anaheim residents affected by immigration enforcement activities through emergency grants for rent, utilities, and other eligible expenses. She noted that program funding is primarily sourced from housing funds, with the General Fund serving as a secondary source if needed. She reported that as of March 17, the program had received financial assistance requests totaling approximately $225,262, representing 343 Anaheim residents who have benefited from the program. Director Larson -Cash outlined additional funding strategies to continue supporting Anaheim residents while minimizing impacts on the General Fund. She reported that beginning April 1, the Housing and Community Development Department will launch the Stay Housed Anaheim Program, providing one- time emergency rental assistance of up to $3,000 for qualifying residents, funded through the City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 40 of 54 Housing Trust. She noted that Anaheim Public Utilities will expand access to electric and water bill assistance programs, with eligible residents referred directly to those resources. She shared that due to the reallocation of utility -related assistance accounts, the Contigo Program fund balance increased to approximately $45,312. She added that the remaining Contigo funds will be used for miscellaneous emergency expenses not covered by other programs, including medical costs, phone bills, gas bills, and transportation needs. Interim City Manager Garcia reported that staff researched legal defense models used by other cities and consulted with communications staff to identify the most pressing community needs. He highlighted the Communications Team and Chief Communications Officer Mike Lyster for understanding the needs of the community. Chief Communications Officer Mike Lyster reported responding to more than 100 immigration enforcement or suspected enforcement incidents and identified the first 24-48 hours after a detention as the period of greatest need for affected families. He added that families often require immediate assistance locating detained loved ones, understanding detention procedures, and navigating available resources. He added that staff currently provides guidance on detention locations, detainee locator tools, and the initial immigration process, but noted that families are frequently unfamiliar with these systems and face significant uncertainty. He shared that based on field experience and discussions with community organizations, staff recommended partnering with a trusted nonprofit to provide a hotline and intake service for families during the critical early stages following a detention. He reported that the proposed service would supplement existing City support by connecting families with trained professionals who can provide guidance, referrals to legal counsel, and assistance navigating immigration court proceedings. He noted that community organizations are already serving Anaheim residents and that the recommendation reflects both local experience and a review of approaches used by other cities. Interim City Manager Garcia reported that staff reviewed legal assistance models used by other communities and determined that the greatest need is providing timely legal support during the first 24-48 hours following a detention. He shared that he has been in discussions with Immigrant Defenders, an organization already serving Anaheim residents and possessing significant legal capacity, while continuing to collaborate with other respected community partners. He explained that the request is for authorization to continue developing a scope of work and enter into an agreement not to exceed $100,000 for legal services. He noted that the proposed program would operate as a pilot initiative focused on maximizing available resources and evaluating community needs, with primary objectives to provide immediate access to legal consultation and helping families locate and connect with detained loved ones, ensure detainees can consult with legal professionals and understand their rights during the critical early stages of detention, and refer individuals and families who require ongoing representation to trusted and reputable legal service providers. He emphasized that this targeted approach would allow the city to assist more residents than funding long-term legal representation on a case -by -case basis. DISCUSSION: Mayor Pro Tem Leon emphasized the hardships faced by families when a primary wage earner is detained through immigration enforcement, leaving families to navigate complex legal systems while managing immediate financial and personal needs. He shared an example of assisting a family seeking help after a loved one was detained and highlighted the lack of immediate access to qualified legal guidance during such situations. He stated that the proposed program is intended to address this gap by connecting families with legal expertise and support during critical early stages. He expressed appreciation for the Communications Team and staff who have provided direct support to residents, including responding to incidents, verifying information, and helping families navigate difficult circumstances. He emphasized the importance of providing assistance during the first 24-72 City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 41 of 54 hours following a detention, when critical decisions are often made. He raised concerns about families being vulnerable to exploitation by unqualified individuals charging significant fees for assistance without delivering meaningful results. He expressed support for establishing a trusted hotline and referral system that would connect families with qualified legal professionals, provide accurate guidance, and help them navigate available resources. He thanked staff for their work and voiced hope that Anaheim families will have a reliable source of support and legal guidance when needed. Council Member Meeks expressed support for the proposal, emphasizing the importance of helping families navigate the first 24-48 hours following a detention. She noted that government and immigration processes can be difficult to understand and that families need reliable information and guidance during critical situations. She expressed support for providing trusted resources that can help families avoid exploitation by individuals seeking to profit from their circumstances. She stated that the City's role should focus on immediate assistance, triage, and referrals to qualified organizations and legal professionals, rather than providing long-term legal representation. She endorsed connecting affected individuals with reputable agencies that can provide ongoing support as needed. Council Member Kurtz commended City staff, including the communications, housing, and public utilities teams, for proactively responding to community needs and providing assistance without waiting for formal council direction. She expressed appreciation for the creation of assistance programs funded through housing and utility resources, helping reduce the need for additional city funding. She stated that the remaining Contigo funds may be sufficient for miscellaneous assistance needs but encouraged staff to return to the council if additional funding becomes necessary. She expressed support to allocate $100,000 for a legal aid initiative focused on providing guidance and referrals during the first 24-48 hours following a detention. She emphasized the importance of helping residents navigate complex legal processes, particularly those unfamiliar with available resources, and protecting families from exploitation by unqualified service providers. She thanked Mayor Pro Tem Leon for bringing the item forward. Council Member Rubalcava expressed support for the proposed legal assistance program and thanked staff for their leadership and ongoing efforts to support Anaheim residents affected by immigration enforcement activities. She raised concerns that the proposed funding amount may be insufficient given the level of community need and suggested considering a higher allocation to avoid returning to Council for additional funding in the near future. She highlighted the importance of continuing outreach and education efforts, including distribution of "Know Your Rights" materials and other informational resources. She urged staff to include information warning residents about scams and unqualified individuals, including notaries falsely offering legal immigration services, to help protect families from fraud and exploitation. Council Member Maahs expressed support for the recommendation to allocate up to $100,000 for legal assistance services. She stated concern about the circumstances that have created the need for such services and acknowledged the importance of the City's response. She expressed appreciation for staff efforts to support residents and families affected by immigration enforcement activities. She specifically thanked the Communications Team for its ongoing field work and responsiveness to community concerns and encouraged staff to prioritize their own well-being while carrying out these responsibilities. In response to Council Member Balius, Interim City Manager Garcia stated that the scope of the proposed legal services program is still being refined in coordination with nonprofit partners. He noted that unlike other models that fund attorneys to handle a set number of cases, the proposed pilot City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 42 of 54 would focus on enhancing intake, counseling, and early -stage legal assistance services. He explained that the proposed $100,000 allocation could have a significant impact under this approach but noted that final program details and service levels will be determined once the agreement is finalized. Council Member Balius shared his preference to keep the amount to $100,000. Interim City Manager Garcia expressed support for the proposed $100,000 funding level, describing it as a reasonable starting point that could be accommodated within the budget. He noted that focusing resources on initial access, intake, and referral services rather than long-term legal representation would allow the funding to assist more residents and remain effective for a longer period. Mayor Aitken thanked the Communications Team, particularly Chief Communications Officer Lyster, for maintaining up-to-date community resources and adapting city outreach efforts as conditions have changed. She expressed support for adding the legal assistance component and noted concerns about notaries and other individuals who misrepresent their qualifications and take advantage of vulnerable residents. She stated that providing access to trusted legal professionals would help ensure residents receive accurate information and realistic guidance regarding their situations. She expressed support for efforts to protect individual liberty and help reunite families affected by detention or immigration -related proceedings. Mayor Pro Tem Leon requested that staff provide periodic updates on the use of the proposed $100,000 legal services allocation. He noted that the initial funding amount is intended as a pilot and that the city does not yet know how far the funds will stretch. He emphasized the importance of proactively monitoring the program and discussing potential funding needs before resources are exhausted. Interim City Manager Garcia agreed to provide the City Council with details of the program once the scope of work and agreement are finalized. He confirmed that updates on the legal services initiative will be incorporated into regular Contigo Program reports. Mayor Aitken suggested additional updates from the City Attorney's Office, referencing comments by Council Member Balius. City Attorney Fabela confirmed that staff could provide updates. Mayor Pro Tem Leon thanked colleagues for the discussion and emphasized that the purpose of the proposal is to ensure that families affected by immigration enforcement have access to a qualified and trusted source of information during the critical early stages following a detention. He stated that providing residents with guidance, support, and access to services is part of the City Council's responsibility and helps ensure families are not left without resources during difficult circumstances. He noted affected individuals are members of the Anaheim community and that the city should be prepared to assist residents facing these challenges. MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Leon moved to receive an update on funding for the Anaheim Contigo program; provide direction to staff on establishing an immigration legal defense component to support Anaheim residents, including the scope of services and contract amount; and authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with a nonprofit legal provider, in the estimated range of $50,000 to $100,000 depending on the scope and demand, to launch and implement the immigration legal defense component accordingly, seconded by Mayor Aitken. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 43 of 54 Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. PUBLIC HEARING: D128 29. Public Hearing to consider and adopt a Development Impact Fee (DIF) Nexus Study, a related capital improvement plan for DIF funded projects, and increases/decreases to DIF fees for the City of Anaheim. RESOLUTION NO. 2026-024 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting the Development Impact Fee Study and Development Impact Fee Improvement Plan [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines]. ORDINANCE NO. _ 6625 (INTRODUCTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Chapter 17.08 (Subdivisions), Chapter 17.34 (Development Fees) and Chapter 17.36 (Public Safety Facilities and Vehicle Equipment Impact Fees) of Title 17 (Land Development and Resources) of the Anaheim Municipal Code and finding and determining that this ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3) and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines, because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment because there is no possibility that it may have a significant effect on the environment and because it is not a project as defined in Section 15378 of the CEQA. RESOLUTION NO. 2026-025 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Public Safety Facilities and Vehicle and Equipment Impact Fees [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines]. RESOLUTION NO. 2026-026 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Library Facilities and Collection Items Impact Fees [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines]. RESOLUTION NO. 2026-027 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving the amount of the park -in -lieu fee and rescinding Resolution No. 2011-085 and Resolution No. 2011-086 [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines]. Interim City Manager Greg Garcia thanked Finance staff for bringing the item forward and working with each department on the Development Impact Fees. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 44 of 54 Budget Supervisor D'Anne Lee reported that consistent with the Anaheim Strategic Plan, we have been working for more than a year to update certain development impact fees affecting Police, Fire and Community Services. She stated that the City contracted with David Taussig & Associates (DTA) to prepare a Development Impact Fee (DIF) nexus study to identify the capital needs of our departments based on the impact of long-term development, determining the maximum rates to fund the reasonable cost of facilities, vehicles, and equipment needed to sustain the City's current levels of service, and updating land and development costs for the Quimby calculation. The Development Impact Fee Study, DIF Improvement Plan, and proposed fees were publicly noticed and have been available for public review at the City Clerk's counter and online since February 19, 2026. Budget Supervisor Lee stated that the Development Impact Fees for Fire, Police, Library, and Parks have not been updated since 2011 or earlier. She reported that the process provides the support for updating the maximum impact fees allowed for Fire, Police, Library and Parks based on their projected needs resulting from new development. She explained that to simplify our development impact fee structure, the proposed fees would be applied Citywide rather than to specific, limited areas, such as the Platinum Triangle, as is currently the case for Police, Fire & Rescue and Libraries. She stated that the maximum rates are based on the estimated buildout population, employment, residential units, and non-residential building square footage from the Land Use Plan updated in April 2025. Facility and Equipment needs resulting from new development are identified in the DIF Improvement Plan and included in the DIF Nexus Study. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that departments identified their needs based on the projected new development through 2045 based on increases in population and units. The Facility and Equipment needs resulting from new development are identified in the DIF Improvement Plan and referenced in the nexus study. She shared that the estimated costs for the department's needs lists are compared to existing levels of service to ensure that the fees cover only the impact of new development and not that of existing development. She added that needs attributable to new development include new and expanded facilities, equipment and vehicles for Police and Fire personnel, Traffic signal preemption devices for Fire, a new bookmobile, and library collection materials. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that the proposed fees would be applied citywide based on square footage for retail, commercial, office and industrial uses, per room for hotel and motel uses, and per unit for single and multi -family residential uses. The City has determined that, on average, there is no evidence that a larger home corresponds to additional residents in the home, thus a uniform per -unit fee best reflects the actual impact of a new home, rather than the number of square feet. She added that per Government Code, ADUs of less than 750 square feet are exempt from impact fees; ADUs that are 750 square feet or larger would be assessed proportionately in relation to the square footage of the ADU to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit. She provided an overview of Police and Fire. Budget Supervisor Lee explained the Library fees and noted that impacts are generated by both residential and non-residential development, so the proposed fees apply to all land uses citywide. An employment adjustment factor is applied to non-residential developments with the assumption that residential developments typically generate roughly five times the demand for Library services than employees of non-residential development. She explained that the adjustment to the Library Impact Fees across all development types addresses the reality that residents and employees both utilize Library services provided within the City. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that the park -in -lieu lieu fee applies only to residential development and is established by formula according to the Quimby Act. The formula is equal to the cost per acre ($6.8M) times the City Park Standard (2 acres per 1,000 residents) times the population per City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 45 of 54 household divided by 1,000. She stated that the proposed fees represent 35% of the maximum rates allowed by the Quimby formula, which brings the total combined fees for Police, Fire, Library and Parks in line with the average similarly combined fees of Orange County cities. She noted that by formula, the maximum park -in -lieu fee for a single-family residential home is $45,077 because of development costs and the cost of land. She outlined the difference in fees for Orange County cities compared to Anaheim. Budget Supervisor Lee shared that for park -in -lieu fees the proposed fee of $16,022 per unit for a single-family home would place Anaheim just below other Orange County cities, like Yorba Linda, Huntington Beach, Buena Park, Orange and Westminster, with the average OC park -in -lieu fee being approximately $13,000 per unit. She provided examples of the proposed fees by land use combined for single and multi -family residential and hotel development demonstrating how the proposed fees compare with other local cities in Orange County. She displayed additional comparisons for retail, commercial and industrial development, the wider variation being the result of different demographic and land use mixes in different cities. Budget Supervisor Lee reported that for retail, commercial and industrial development, the wider variation being the result of different demographic and land use mixes in different cities. She explained that the fees in the Fee Study are based on current facility costs and best practices recommended that they be adjusted annually by a reliable index to account for inflation. Park -in -lieu fees are established by formula pursuant to the Quimby Act. She explained that since the formula includes cost per acre and with land values continually increasing, staff recommend that fees be set at approximately 35% of the maximum allowable, with an annual escalation by the greater of 5% or CCCI. She noted that the escalation would mitigate the immediate impact on developers and allow the fees to increase gradually toward full recovery of the costs needed to support the park development. She emphasized that at no point would the fee exceed the maximum with annual CCCI increases. Budget Supervisor Lee outlined the actions presented before Council and that the City Clerk would call for separate votes for each item. At 10:42 p.m., Mayor Aitken opened the public hearing. Marc Herbert questioned why a longer speaking time was provided for the current hearing than for a previous Festival public hearing. He expressed concerns about City oversight and enforcement, citing a hotel project where additional rooms were reportedly discovered years after construction and questioning how future compliance issues would be monitored and enforced. He raised concerns about whether violations would result in meaningful penalties or simply require corrective action after being discovered. He questioned potential conflicts of interest involving council members and staff, referencing prior discussions about conflict -of -interest reviews conducted by the City Attorney. He stated that while certain actions may meet legal requirements, the council should strive for a higher standard of transparency and avoid even the appearance of potential conflicts of interest. He encouraged the council to exceed minimum legal standards in matters of ethics, transparency, and public trust. City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that no electronic public comments were received related to Public Hearing Item No. 29. At 10:47 p.m., Mayor Aitken closed the public hearing. DISCUSSION: Council Member Balius shared strong support for the item. He requested clarification City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 46 of 54 on the last park fee update Citywide. Director Moreno reported that the last update for park fees took place in FY 2010/11. In response to Council Member Balius, Director Moreno reported that the previous increase was two years prior to the update. Council Member Balius stated that research indicated park fees outside the Platinum Triangle had not been increased since approximately 2004-2005 and expressed concern that the fees had remained unchanged for more than two decades. He emphasized that development impact fees are an important source of funding for public infrastructure and services, helping mitigate the impacts of growth. He noted that residents moving into the city today are paying essentially the same park fees as residents who moved in more than 20 years ago. He referenced previous suggestions to update the fee structure in 2019. He stated that the lack of fee adjustments has contributed to funding challenges for parks and other public facilities and services, including police, fire, and libraries. He shared that the City has often relied on General Fund resources for improvements and expressed support for updating fees to better support community amenities and infrastructure needs. He noted that previous planning and parks -related studies had identified updating development impact fees as a key funding strategy more than a decade ago, but those recommended fee increases were not implemented. He stated that failure to update park fees over time may have resulted in the loss of significant revenue that could have been used to improve and expand park facilities. He questioned the use of different population figures in calculating park fees versus police, fire, and library fees and noted that the differing methodologies can be difficult to understand. He explained that the calculation of park in -lieu fees, observing that the maximum fee amount is based on assumptions regarding land acquisition costs and parkland standards. He expressed concerns that current land value assumptions may underestimate the true cost of acquiring parkland, particularly in areas where vacant land is limited and developed properties may need to be purchased. He noted that Anaheim's park land standard of two acres per 1,000 residents is lower than that of many neighboring cities and that the City remains park -deficient in many areas. He acknowledged that charging the maximum allowable fee may not be practical, he emphasized the importance of recognizing the City's park needs and the rationale behind the higher calculated fee levels. He questioned why the proposed fee update would capture only a portion of the maximum allowable amount and sought clarification regarding the remaining unmet funding needs, particularly in areas experiencing future growth and redevelopment. Council Member Balius summarized concerns regarding development impact fees and park funding, noting that planning documents for the Beach Boulevard Specific Plan identify a need for approximately 26 additional acres of park space in West Anaheim. He expressed concern that collecting only 35% of the maximum allowable park fee may not generate sufficient funding to meet the parkland needs identified in city planning documents. He acknowledged that charging less than the maximum fee may be appropriate; however, the need to identify alternative funding sources to address the remaining gap and ensure that development mitigation commitments can be fulfilled. He shared that he reviewed proposed capital improvement needs and questioned whether future facility requirements associated with anticipated growth had been fully incorporated into the analysis. He inquired why plans for expanding police facilities in West Anaheim were not included, noting that future growth under the Beach Boulevard Specific Plan could require additional officers and increased police station capacity. He requested clarification regarding how future public safety facility needs are being accounted for in the City's planning and fee calculations. Director Moreno explained that the needs list is determined by the departments. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 47 of 54 In response to Mayor Aitken, Council Member Balius stated that development impact fees should be used to help address facility needs created by new development, even if they cannot fund services for existing residents. He suggested that at a minimum, impact fee revenues should support expansion of existing public safety facilities if additional growth creates increased demand. Director Moreno noted that the capital improvement program includes approximately $65.8 million for expanded public safety facilities, although the funding is not currently allocated to a specific location or project. Council Member Balius referenced the Capital Improvement Plan's allocation of approximately $65 million for expanded law enforcement facility space, including about 64,000 square feet of additional capacity. He noted that the project appeared to reflect a need for expanded police facilities and sought clarification regarding how the funding and square footage would be applied. He inquired whether the planned expansion represented a single new police facility or whether the additional square footage could be distributed among multiple locations throughout the city based on future needs. Vice President of David Taussig & Associates, Nehal Thumar, explained that the Police Department identified a future need for approximately 45,000 square feet of additional law enforcement facility space to accommodate growth and new development within the City. Chief Cid stated that the department's facility needs are comprehensive and would encompass multiple operational requirements. He noted that the Department's most significant facility need is the Main Police Station, which has been outgrown and is in need of substantial improvement. He acknowledged future needs at other locations, but indicated that the West Anaheim station remains functional and in a better condition than the Main Station. Council Member Balius acknowledged the need for significant improvements or reconstruction of the Main Station. He requested clarification regarding how the proposed additional law enforcement facility space would be allocated, asking whether the planned square footage would be concentrated at the Main Station or distributed among the City's police facilities. He noted that as Anaheim continues to grow, demand for services is likely to increase at the Main, East, and West police stations, and questioned how future facility expansion plans account for growth throughout the City. Mr. Thumar clarified that the fee study identifies a need for approximately 45,000 square feet of additional police facility space on a 64,000-square-foot site, but does not specify where that space would ultimately be located. Council Member Balius expressed hope that police facilities, particularly in West Anaheim, would expand alongside anticipated growth associated with the Beach Boulevard Specific Plan. He noted that the City Council was reviewing the capital improvement program (CIP) and related facility needs for the first time and emphasized the importance of understanding how projected growth will affect public safety infrastructure. He requested clarification regarding the application of development impact fees under AB 1600. He questioned whether future development fees could be used to fund facilities identified in the capital improvement program that may already exist or have previously been planned, citing Fire Station No. 12 as an example. Director Moreno explained that the applicable ordinances authorize development impact fees to be used for facility construction, equipment purchases, and reimbursement of eligible costs that were initially funded from other sources. She noted that because impact fee programs operate over long City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 48 of 54 periods, it is anticipated that facilities or improvements may be funded in advance through other financing mechanisms and later reimbursed with collected impact fee revenues. In response to Council Member Balius, Fire Chief Russell explained that Fire Station No. 11 was not included in the Capital Improvement Plan because it is an existing station that already serves the area. He indicated that a future priority could be the placement of a ladder truck in the area to support increased service demands as development occurs. Mr. Thumar clarified that Fire Station No. 11 is an existing facility and impact fees are collected to construct new infrastructure and improvements. Council Member Balius noted that the development impact fee program includes funding for future vehicles and equipment, not just facilities, and questioned whether future fire service needs in West Anaheim had been fully accounted for. He explained that as development associated with the Beach Boulevard Specific Plan occurs, additional fire apparatus may be needed to maintain service levels, even if existing station facilities can accommodate the equipment. He inquired why an additional fire engine for Station No. 11 or the west side of the City was not included in the list of future equipment needs, while other stations were identified for additional vehicles. Mr. Thumar stated that the current list of future fire equipment needs was developed in consultation with the Fire Department and reflects the resources identified as necessary to serve anticipated new development. He noted that if additional analysis shows another fire engine is needed to accommodate growth, the equipment list could be amended accordingly. In response to Council Member Balius, Director Moreno confirmed that staff can evaluate the need in the future. He added that an additional vehicle would cost $1.7 million. Council Member Balius stated that he would support the item but requested that staff return in a year to review the CIP. Mr. Thumar explained that under AB 602, development impact fee studies must be updated at least every eight years. He added that it is the City's intent is to update the fee study every five years to ensure that projected development, facility needs, and infrastructure requirements remain accurate. In response to Mayor Aitken, Mr. Thuman confirmed a Consumer Price Index escalator was built into the fee. Director Moreno confirmed that staff can review the fees sooner than the five to eight years and can update the estimates accordingly. Council Member Balius inquired whether the city could apply an annual 5% adjustment to park fees under the Quimby Act. He noted that Quimby fees are tied to land values and that current calculations are based on determining the value of land used for park acquisition. He expressed interest in whether park fees could be adjusted annually to reflect changes in land values rather than requiring a full fee study update each time. Director Moreno explained that there is no Charter requirement preventing the proposed fee adjustment methodology. He stated that because the city is not charging the maximum allowable park fee, annual adjustments can be made using the greater of a 5% increase or the applicable Construction Cost Index (CCI). She explained that the approach was designed to allow fees to gradually increase over time, helping the City keep pace with rising costs and, when appropriate, City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 49 of 54 catch up to actual land and development -related expenses. She confirmed that the proposed annual adjustment mechanism is permissible and consistent with applicable requirements. Council Member Balius stated that while the proposed annual fee adjustments may help maintain current funding levels, they are unlikely to fully compensate for the effects of inflation and more than two decades without significant fee increases. He reiterated strong support for updating the development impact fee structure and acknowledged the difficulty of addressing funding gaps created by many years of unchanged fees. He requested an increase to the proposed park in -lieu fee by an additional $1,700 above the recommended amount and requested that the matter be brought back to the City Council within one year, after further review of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and the city's long-term infrastructure and facility needs. Mayor Aitken requested clarification on the 35% increase to park -in -lieu. Director Moreno explained that the increase was proposed to align the City with other neighboring jurisdictions. Mayor Aitken suggested that increasing fees above the proposed 35% level may be necessary to begin addressing the gap created by years without updates. She inquired whether the proposed additional $1,700 increase would equate to approximately 50% of the maximum allowable park in -lieu fee. Council Member Balius stated that if the proposed $1,700 increase did not achieve the intended percentage, he would support establishing the fee directly at 45%. Council Member Meeks thanked staff for bringing forward the development impact fee update and acknowledged that fee increases had been discussed for many years without action. She shared support for increasing fees but cautioned against setting rates so high that they could discourage development or make housing construction more difficult. She emphasized the need to balance infrastructure funding needs with maintaining Anaheim's competitiveness for new development and housing projects. She noted that the City has successfully secured grants and other external funding sources for parks and recreational improvements, reducing the need to rely solely on development fees. She expressed support for the staff -recommended fee levels rather than increasing fees to the maximum allowable amount. She asked sked staff for clarification regarding the proposed fee structure for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), specifically how impact fees would be calculated for ADUs of 750 square feet or larger in relation to the size of the primary dwelling unit. Budget Supervisor Lee explained that impact fees for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) of 750 square feet or larger are calculated proportionally based on the size of the ADU relative to the primary dwelling unit. She provided an example that if a primary residence is 4,000 square feet and the ADU is 1,000 square feet, the ADU would be assessed 25% of the applicable impact fee because its size is 25% of the primary dwelling unit. In response to Council Member Meeks, Mr. Thumar clarified that development impact fees are typically assessed on a per -unit basis for residential development. He explained that State ADU laws provide an exemption from impact fees for accessory dwelling units that are less than 750 square feet. He noted that for ADUs that are 750 square feet or larger, impact fees are assessed proportionally based on the size of the ADU relative to the primary residence, in accordance with State law. Council Member Meeks questioned the difference in impact fee calculations between accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and other residential units. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 50 of 54 Mr. Thumar explained that the fee structure for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) is based on the assumption that ADUs generally house fewer residents and create less demand on public facilities and services than a primary dwelling unit. Council Member Meeks expressed uncertainty regarding the rationale for assessing lower impact fees on accessory dwelling units (ADUs). She asked staff whether the proportional fee structure is a common practice among other jurisdictions or whether ADUs should be treated and charged as separate residential units for impact fee purposes. Mr. Thumar responded that the City could choose to define and treat accessory dwelling units (ADUs) differently within its fee program documents. Council Member Meeks stated a preference for treating accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as separate residential units for impact fee purposes rather than applying a proportional fee based on square footage. Mayor Aitken inquired if there was any data to support fewer people residing within ADUs compared to primary dwelling units. In response to Council Member Meeks, Mr. Thumar clarified the ADU typically serves as a secondary unit on the main lot. Director Moreno confirmed that staff can evaluate the volume for the ADUs. Council Member Rubalcava concurred with Council Member Meeks' concerns on ADUs. She noted that ADUs utilize public services such as public works, police, and fire protection and questioned whether they should receive different treatment under the impact fee structure. She expressed support for reconsidering the exemption or reduced fee treatment for ADUs. She inquired whether the proposed development impact fees would apply to future development projects on Disney -owned property. Mr. Thumar confirmed that the formula for ADUs is based on State law for the proportion of the main unit. Council Member Rubalcava requested a copy of the policy. She requested clarification regarding how the proposed development impact fees would apply to future development under the Disneyland Forward project. Director Moreno confirmed that any new development would apply. Council Member Rubalcava emphasized the importance of applying development impact fee policies consistently to all eligible projects and developments. She agreed with Council Member Balius' comment that Anaheim cannot fully recover from decades of prior development that occurred under lower fee structures and acknowledged the need to remain competitive with other cities for future investment. She stated that larger developments should contribute their fair share toward infrastructure and public service costs because of the demands they place on City resources. She expressed concern that future development agreements or other negotiated arrangements could potentially exempt projects from the fee program and urged staff to ensure that the adopted policies are applied consistently. She concluded by emphasizing the importance of fairness and uniform application of the fee structure across all qualifying developments. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 51 of 54 In response to Council Member Kurtz, Mr. Thumar confirmed that the proposal would apply to OCVIBE. He explained the fee is paid at the time the building permits are issued. City Attorney Fabela noted a potential concern regarding the applicability of updated development impact fees to projects operating under existing development agreements. He explained that the city has previously entered into development agreements with Disney and OCVIBE, which are generally intended to lock in certain fees and development conditions for a specified period. He explained that research would be needed to clarify whether the new fees would apply to those developments. In response to Council Member Kurtz, Director Moreno explained that single-family home fees are slightly higher than multi -family. Mr. Thumar clarified that the proposed development impact fee program generally includes a single fee category for residential units and four separate categories for non-residential development. Budget Supervisor Lee clarified that the police, fire, and library development impact fees use a single residential fee applied uniformly to all residential units. She explained that park impact fees are structured differently and vary by residential housing type. She explained that park fees are assessed based on categories such as single-family homes, multifamily developments, two -to -four -unit projects, and larger multifamily developments with five or more units, resulting in multiple residential fee classifications with different fee amounts. She added that the summary page includes the combined fees. Council Member Kurtz requested a page with all of the fees. Budget Supervisor Lee explained that a page was included in the agenda packet that explains the fees. In response to Mayor Aitken, Mr. Thumar explained that hotel development impact fees are influenced by both projected future hotel room growth and the costs of facilities needed to serve that growth. He noted that the fee calculation is based on allocating eligible infrastructure and facility costs across the anticipated number of future hotel rooms. He explained that if the projected number of hotel rooms increases while the total allocable costs remain the same, the fee charged per hotel room could decrease because the costs are spread across a larger number of units. He emphasized that the fee methodology reflects a combination of projected development, demographic assumptions, and capital facility costs identified through the planning process. Budget Supervisor Lee explained that the previous study relied on calls -for -service data to allocate costs among land uses. She reported that the updated study instead uses a dwelling -equivalent approach based on the number of residents and employees served, which staff stated provides a more consistent and equitable allocation of costs across different land uses. Mr. Thumar explained that comparable calls -for -service data were not available for the current study, contributing to the adoption of a different methodology. Mayor Aitken expressed concern about moving away from a calls -for -service methodology when calculating police and fire development impact fees for hotels and motels. She noted that public safety demands associated with hotel and motel guests may occur outside the property itself, such as in nearby parks, commercial areas, or other locations within the surrounding district. She questioned whether the reduced fee allocation for hotels and motels adequately reflects the level of public safety services required in areas with high concentrations of visitor -serving uses. Director Moreno explained that the fees apply to increases due to future development. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 52 of 54 Mayor Atiken noted that the City recently expanded the Resort Specific Plan to include additional parcels and development opportunities, including potential future hotel development. Director Moreno explained that future demand for hotels and related development is not driven solely by economic conditions or tourism trends. Mr. Thumar explained that the fee study uses an equivalent dwelling unit (EDU) methodology to allocate development impact costs across land uses. He added that under the approach residential development is assigned a baseline impact factor, while non-residential categories are assigned impact factors based on the number of employees per 1,000 square feet of development. He stated that these factors are then used to proportionally allocate eligible infrastructure and facility costs between residential and non-residential development types. He explained that because reliable calls - for -service data was not available for the current analysis, staff utilized the EDU methodology, which they described as an industry -standard approach for allocating development impact fees among different land uses. In response to Council Member Rubalcava, Director Moreno explained that understanding that impacts are primarily calculated based on factors such as employment generation rather than solely on the size of the development. Mr. Thumar added that explained that a residential unit is assigned a baseline factor of 1.0, while a hotel room is assigned a lower factor (approximately 0.228), resulting in a proportionally smaller share of allocated costs. Council Member Rubalcava expressed concern that the hotel impact factor appeared too low given Anaheim's significant tourism activity. She noted that the City's daily population effectively increases due to visitors staying in hotels and using local services and infrastructure. She questioned whether hotel rooms should be assigned a lower impact factor than residential units, arguing that hotel guests still generate demand for police, fire, emergency response, and other City services. Mr. Thumar clarified that the methodology is based on employees per 1,000 feet and not visitors. Council Member Rubalcava questioned whether the standard fee allocation methodology adequately reflects Anaheim's unique economic and employment characteristics. She noted that the Resort area contains one of the region's largest employment centers and generates substantial demand for city services. She acknowledged he methodology may be an industry -standard approach, the member suggested that Anaheim's circumstances may warrant further review of how costs are allocated among land uses. She encouraged staff to review the methodology to ensure that it accurately captures the impacts and service demands associated with the city's resort and hospitality industries. Mr. Thumar explained that the methodology would need to be reviewed with the Planning Department. In response to Council Member Meeks, Mr. Thumar clarified that the methodology is based on the employees per 1,000 square feet. Council Member Meeks suggested a review of the methodology and recommended a continuance. Mr. Thumar explained that modifying the fee allocation methodology for hotels and motels would not increase the overall amount of development impact fees collected by the City. He explained that any adjustment would redistribute costs among the various land -use categories. He noted that increasing the share allocated to hotel and motel development would correspondingly reduce the share City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 53 of 54 allocated to other residential or non-residential uses. He added that the change would require a justifiable methodology supported by available planning and development data. Council Member Balius emphasized that the development impact fee calculations are not created arbitrarily by city staff but are based on methodologies and requirements established under state law, including AB 1600. He explained that staff applies local data to the prescribed formulas and methodologies to generate the resulting fee amounts. He acknowledged the concerns raised and expressed support for moving forward with adoption of the proposed fees. He suggested that the Council revisit the methodology and make adjustments in the future if warranted by additional analysis or changing conditions. Mayor Aitken supported the request. In response to Council Member Kurtz, Director Moreno noted that the development impact fees are intended to fund infrastructure and facilities needed to support the delivery of city services, rather than the day-to-day operational costs of providing those services. Council Member Kurtz supported continuing the item to review potential impacts. In response to Council Member Balius, City Attorney Fabela advised that there would be three separate motions and that the amendments should be applied to the individual motions. Council Member Meeks suggested adopting staff's recommendation and reviewing the fees in a year City Attorney Fabela confirmed there was no confirmed motion on the floor requiring a substitution which is not allowed. MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2026-024 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM adopting the Development Impact Fee Study and Development Impact Fee Improvement Plan [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines], seconded by Council Member Balius. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to introduce ORDINANCE NO. 6625 (INTRODUCTION) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending Chapter 17.08 (Subdivisions), Chapter 17.34 (Development Fees) and Chapter 17.36 (Public Safety Facilities and Vehicle Equipment Impact Fees) of Title 17 (Land Development and Resources) of the Anaheim Municipal Code and finding and determining that this ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3) and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines, because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment because there is no possibility that it may have a significant effect on the environment and because it is not a project as defined in Section 15378 of the CEQA, seconded by Council Member Maahs. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. Ordinance introduced. City Council Minutes of March 24, 2026 Page 54 of 54 MOTION: Council Member Meeks moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2026-025 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Public Safety Facilities and Vehicle and Equipment Impact Fees [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines], RESOLUTION NO. _ 2026-026 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM amending the Library Facilities and Collection Items Impact Fees [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines], and RESOLUTION NO. 2026-027 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM approving the amount of the park -in -lieu fee and rescinding Resolution No. 2011-085 and Resolution No. 2011-086 [includes determination that approval of this resolution is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines], seconded by Council Member Maahs. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 7 (Mayor Aitken and Council Members Leon, Balius, Rubalcava, Kurtz, Maahs, and Meeks); NOES — 0. Motion carried. REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS: None PUBLIC COMMENTS inon-aeienda items): None COUNCIL AGENDA SETTING: Mayor Aitken requested additional information on the City's domestic and agricultural policies. She requested information on the process to receive public input on the annexation of unincorporated County land and the annexation process. She requested a recognition for Parsa Ketabi for winning a national scholarship for community college students. Council Member Meeks requested a presentation from the Public Utilities Department at the April 21st meeting on the City's water quality. Council Member Maahs requested a proclamation recognizing Holly Hagler's retirement from Meals on Wheels Orange County. She shared that she has served as President and CEO for 14 years and oversaw the organization's growth into a major regional provider of nutrition and supportive services for older adults. Mayor Pro Tem Leon requested a recognition for Anaheim Ducks broadcaster Steve Carroll and his retirement after 50 years and 27 seasons with the Ducks. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, Mayor Aitken adjourned the City Council at 11:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, CMC Date: 3/22/202612:33:12 PM From "Alex Brown" To: "Public Comnem" pubhccommeruna anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] city council - Agenda Item #17 on March 24 You dual often get Baud from- Uarn why thu is urporlant 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 The press and OC residents have been documenting the shelter's problems for the last 3 years. The city has done nothing to push the shelter to clean house. Once you renew the contract, these are now YOUR problems. Information from the press with links found on https://OCSlielter.com Fullerton Observer, March 18, 2026 Issues at OC Animal Care and Other Shelters https://fullertonobserver. com/2026/03/ 18/issues-at-oc-animal-care-and-other-shelters/ Recent articles and community opinions shed light on troubling issues at Orange County Animal Care (OC Animal Care) and other municipal animal shelters across California, highlighting concerns around data integrity, negligence, and the overall treatment of animals. Voice of OC, March 17, 2026 The County Animal Shelter has a Data Integrity Problem https://voiceofoc. org/2026/03/tnavrovouniotis-the-county-an imal-sb elter-has-a-data-integrity-problem/ Numbers don't add up at OC Animal Care, and it's not the fist time. In shelter statistics, animals inexplicably vanish between reports. The billing calculations arc based on faulty data as well. Why do the county and OC cities allow this? Voice of OC, March l 1, 2026 Advocates Demand Reform at California Animal Shelters, Including Orange County https://voiceofoc.org/2026/03/califomia-animal-shelters-reform/ Animal advocates sent cease and desist letters to municipal animal shelters across the Golden State, including OC Animal Care in Orange County. Excerpts: One of the major concerns mentioned in the cease and desist letters is the concept of "reduced/managed intake" that minimizes the overall number of animals coming into the shelter in an attempt to reduce euthanasia. Managed intake often involves shelters turning away animals or encouraging members of the public to keep the animal themselves, put it back where it was found or contact a rescue organization. OC Animal Care, the county -run animal shelter in Orange County, received a cease and desist letter dated Feb. 13. The county shelter which has been the subject of numerous grand jury investigations and resident protests over the past several years practices managed intake for stray cats. [Read: Grand Jury. OC Animal Shelter Needs Updated Policies to Stop Killing More Animals/ The shelter does not accept healthy stray cats. Instead it only accepts sick injured or underage cats. Virga said this could be a violation of the Hayden Act, a 1998 state law that outlines certain requirements for animal shelters like mandatory veterinary care and holding periods for stray animals. To read the cease and desist letter sent to OC Animal Care, click here. Oran""', Cowin Srrpei, iaec; ai.so weighed in on the shelter's conditions during their Feb. 24 meeting. Sup"', ieor .lam, t ;A'„ruin said the shelter has made improvements over the pnsi year', hot it's a work in progress. "Pi-." In that we appreciate you, but there is still some work to be done, -,he said at that meeting. Nguyen said animal shelter .etgjf are it orking on a report regarding the 2014 siralcgic plan and asked for an update within the next 30 days. Supers i sot I"icente Sarmiento thanked residents for pushing for improvements at the shelter and said staff should issue regular updates to make sure OC Animal Care is meeting goals laid out in tltu strategic plan. "I think rye need to do something on a periodic basis, almost as a dashboard, and make sure we're able to see how we're doing on these different concerns that we have that are outlined in the strategic plan, " he said "Shelters should be learning from their mistakes and moving forward and adopting the more enlightened approaches that some of the other shelters in other areas are adopting, " Dales said. "We're not seeing that in California on the whole. " Fullerton Observer, March 5, 2026 Companion Animal Protection Society Releases Short Documentary Entitled A CAPS Investigation of OC Animal Care httns�//fullertonobserver com/2026/03/05/companion-animal-protection-society-releases-short-documentary-entitled-a-raps-investigation-of-oc-animal-care/ Shelter mismanagement and failure by the county to conform to a strategic plan and audits have resulted in animal suffering. You can view the 15-minute video here: A CAPS Investigation of OC Animal Care Voice of OC, February 2, 2026 Lamirande: How Negligent are OC Cities in Their Contract with the County Animal Shelter? https://voiceofoc org/2026/02/lami .nde-how-nc,g]igent-are-oc-cities-i -their-contract-with-the-county-ani al -shelter/ Dear city officials, if you hire people with a track record of dishonesty and incompetence, you're responsible for the consequences. If you are in favor of good governance and a good shelter you must make two demands: First, get rid of toxic managers. Second, transparently implement the Strategic Plan. Research study, February 2026 How long do dogs stay in a shelter? We can measure this accurately and link it to shelter operations https�Illink.growk-udos.com/ Icob559gykg Voice of OC, January 4, 2026 OC Animal Care Faces Negligence Lawsuit After Dog Mauling https//voiceofoc ore/2026/01/oc-animal-care-faces-ncgljpence-lawsuit-after-do,g mauling[ A former volunteer is suing the county animal shelter after she was attacked by a shelter dog bitten 18 times while screaming for help. Voice of OC, December 4, 2025 Is the County Working to Fix the Animal Shelter's Problems? If so, Why Haven't Any Progress Reports Been Released? https://voiceofoc.org/2025/ 12/vaughn-is-the-county-working-to-fix-the-animal-shelters-problems-if-so-why-havent-any_pro gess-reports-been-released/ While there's some positive change in the shelter, serious problems remain. OC needs to be transparent about the implementation (or not?) of the shelter's taxpayer -funded Strategic Plan. It also needs to value its experienced volunteers, instead of restricting them to crowded walkways and yards deteriorating into mud pits. OC Register, August 17, 2025 Owner of Woofy Acres dog rescue charged with 16 counts of animal cruelty https://www. ocre2ister. com/2025/08/ 15/owner-of-woofy-acres-do e-rescue-cbartzed-with-multiple-counts-of-animal-cruelty/ Excerpts: The owner of a Southern California dog rescue has been charged with 37 criminal counts of mistreating the animals, nearly 100 of which were in such bad condition they had to be euthanized. Woofy Acres first made headlines in early 2024 after Bedford was accusedQf abandoning 32 dogs many from Orange County at a Rowland Heights kennel in Las Angeles County. Woofy Acres was heavily used by Orange County Animal Care, Orange County Animal Care has released a total of 149 dogs to Woofy Acres, with the last placement in January 2024. It is unclear whether any dogs from Orange County were among the dogs seized by authorities. Voice of OC, August 7, 2025 Two Dogs Dead in Transport from OC Animal Care to Idaho https://voiceofoe.org/2025/08/two-dogs-dead-in-transport-from-oc-animal-care-to-Idaho/ Excerpt: "U S. Department of Transportation statistics show shormosed breeds of dogs are more likely to die during air transport than dogs with normal -length muzzles, and similar risks are likely during road transportation " reads a best practices resource document from the AVMA for relocating pets in non -emergency situations. "This is thought to be related to respiratory problems that are exacerbated by stress and difficulty with thermoregulation so caution should be exercised when transporting these animals during warm weather. " it continues. When transporting animals on the road, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends keeping the trips as short as possible. Research Study, March 2025 You're more likely to adopt a dog you see face to face: Animal shelter visitation policies matter https-//link. gcowkudos. com/ I ewal0s1vr4 Voice of OC, February 18, 2025 OC Cities are Badly Served by the County Animal Shelter. Is Reform Possible? httos://voiccofoc.org/2025/02/lamimnde-oc-cities-arc-badly-served-by-the-county-animal-shelter-is-reform-possible/ Residents paid OC Animal Care $5.8 million in license fees. On top of that, OC cities paid $15.7 million out of then budgets. The county bureaucracy collected $8.4 million in admin costs. Supervisors Nguyen and Sarmiento, representing high -paying cities, are pushing for a better shelter. Supervisor Foley is protecting the mismanagement. Excerpts: The county took in $5.8 million in license fees from pet owners. But that covers only a fraction ofOCAC's budget and left $16.8 million in net expenses. Of this, the county allocated $15.7 million o,- 93% oflhe cost to the cities, to be paid out of their municipal budgets. To recap, the comni° puns °„ of the billable amount, or $1.2 million, but collects $8.4 million to feed its bureaucracy. That's why the county wants to control the animal shelter. It's revenue for county headquarters. OCAC is not meeting standards on kennel sta" because money is going to overhead rather than rank -and -file staff. [...I county bureaucrats are attempting to downgrade shelter standards by "updating" (read: canceling) the Strategic Plan. They issued an RFP that had only one bid from some generic consultant. Then Dylan Wright's bureaucracy that consumes millions in admin costs took 4.5 months for "ranking" one bid. Huh? Ifthis RFP wasn't malfeasance, it was total incompetence. It should be invalidated.. and investigated With good policies, the existing plan is the cost-effective way to serve the companion animals as well as the taxpayers of OC. In the Board discussion about kennel staffing Foley chaned in: "we do intend to follow the NA CA guidelines for standards of care in animal shelters, I believe that that's the case." How convenient. Did Foley look up the recommendation of the county's own consultants to see that OCAC is falling way short of these standards? Let me help. Foley can go to pages 4-5 ofthese excerpts from the JVR recommendations to read: "Staf ng for daily cleaning and feeding based on HSUS, NACA, ASV.... This equates to 26 Full -Time -Equivalent staff members per day. " That's a careful calculation, done by experts in animal sheltering. Instead, Foley blindly sided with Schmidt's PR. Contact the cities that use OCAC and tell them to start exploring other options. If they don't, the county bureaucracy will corner them into another sucker contract. OC Register, September 29, 2024 The OC's inexcusably badly run animal shelter htros://enewslaper.ocregister.com/infmity/article popoversbare.aspx?auid=bc40bdcO-13d9-44e7-b6fb-4cic55b3ecl6&share=true (letter to the editor; scroll to the 4th letter down) OC Register, September 25, 2024 County managers failed our animal shelter hnps://www. ocre,gister.com/2024/09/24/county-manaeers-failed-our-animal-sheher/ [Note: There's a problem in the OC Register app. If that app is on your device, press and hold the link, copy it, and then paste it into your web browser.] If you're having trouble with the above link, try this Shareable Link. https://www. ocreeister. com/2024/09/24/county-managers-failed-our-animal-shelter/?share=2opwholweO42 naisaeiw As a last resort, there is also a Print Edition Link but then you don't have access to the links embedded inside the article. https://cdition,pavcsljkc.coni/12opovers/dynamic_ article popover, asnx?euid=bI3ce9db-5147-4f55-afd9-44c3bbdcaecd&aupcode=OCRI08&ceuid=6fc45cbd-3c76-43f1-a3af- beld2ca327cf&pnum=56# OC Register, September 9, 2024 Wooly Acres dog rescue under criminal investigation, 114 dogs seized by San Bernardino County hlWs://www. ocre2ister.com/2024/09/09/woofy-acres-dog-rescue-under-criminal-investigation- 114-does-seized-by-san-bemardino-county/?share=eyrmnnohOpcao 1 eddcns 'There's no denying those dogs were neglected; said a volunteer with Orange County Animal Care, which sent 149 dogs to the Pinon Hills rescue Vuice of OC, September 5, 2024 The OC Animal Shelter Director is All Image and No Substance hlWs,//voiceofoc.ore/2024/09/mayroyouniotis-the-oc-animal-shcltcr-dircctor-is-all-imaW-and-no-substancc/ The county bureaucracy prefers political spinning over operational knowledge and experience. That's why they chose Monica Schmidt for OC Animal Care Director. She overstated her animal sheltering qualifications to get the job, and she habitually misleads the community and elected officials. Voice of OC, August 13, 2024 Yamashim: Questionable Contracts and Understaffed Shelter, A Crisis in OC Animal Care hops//voiccofoc org/2024/O8/yamashiro-questionable-contracts-and-understaffed-shelter-a-crisis-in-oc-animal-care/ Are county contracts being issued without proper oversight? A former OC Animal Care employee, now living out of state, received a contract that seems to have produced no tangible results. Meanwhile, OC Animal Care is understaffhtg kennels and ignoring the majority of their very expensive 2018 Strategic Plan. Voice of OC, May 16, 2024 Yamashiro: OC Animal Care — Mismanagement and Public Deception Regarding Small Pets https,//voiceofoe.or 20�vamashiro-oc-animal-care-mismanagement-and-public-deception-re rdin -se mall-pcts/ OC Animal Care has been involved in transferring small pets to a reptile organization, which subsequently transported them to Arizona. In a related situation, it was reported that small pets from San Diego Humane Society were likely sold in Arizona as snake food. OCAC has not provided clear explanations regarding the fate of these animals, and support from County Supervisors Wagner and Foley has been lacking. Voice of OC, April 16, 2024 Boyer: A Deteriorating Animal Shelter and Millions in Suspicious Contracts https�llvoiceofoc org/2024/04/boyer-a-deteriorating-animal-shelter-ancLmiUions-in-suspicious-contracts/ Is there a problem in county management? We praise and blame County Supervisors. We ignore the top managers in county bureaucracy. One agency, OCCR, is wasting taxpayer dollars and abetting the gran disarray of the animal shelter. What's hiding behind their disinformation? Chapman Panther (Chapman University), March 19, 2024 Our community deserves a decent animal shelter https'/'www.thepanthernewsnaper org/oninions/opinion-our-community-deserves-a-decent-animal-shelter Excerpts: The mismanagement went on too long, and that's depressingly obvious in the shelter's dismal statistics, as exposed in a most recent Orange County Register article. Small steps are not enough. We already have the blueprint for a well -run shelter: the shelter's own strategic planwhich was developed by national experts and unanimously approved by the Board of Supervisors in 2018. Was that just for show? By this plan, the shelter should. Give dogs daily opportunities to socialize with other dogs. Take cats out of their kennels at least three times per week. Log and track these activities for each animal. Minimize the animals' length of stay in the shelter. Remove roadblocks to getting animals adopted or, when appropriate, rescued. Provide veterinary care for animals that need it, while making them available for public adoption. Return at least 45% of stray dogs to their owners. Ramp up a program to trap, neuter, and return (TNR) community cats. Get at least 85% of incoming cats adopted or rescued. Follow national standards written by the Association o(Shelter Veterinarians (ASV). The shelter is way behind on all of these. Fullerton Observer, March 12, 2024 More Bad News About Orange County Animal Care hitns�//fullertonobserver com/2024/03/12/more-bad-news-about-orange-county-animal-care/ Excerpts: On September 10 last year, the OC animal shelter handed over rescue dogs Baron, Kate, Enzo, and Nevin to the group Woofy Acres. OC staff were concerned. Jaime Link, OCAC Operations Manivet, wrote: "We recenll, had a rescue pick-up with the listed representative, Diane (see PID screenshot), and the shelter team reported that her vehicle emitted an odor of animal waste and grime renta scent o(ux>sI hoarder, hoieees. Sl c i os oleo heharin_o erratically and yelling at staff in the lobby. The rescuer has recently been pulling a lot of aggressive dogs (5 today), and I am concerned they may he g"'n" loaf lesa-tharricLad utnditiuia. " In the nine prior weeks (from July > to September is last v ear), the OC animal shelter had already given 21 dogs to Woofy Acres. The shelter gave a total of 128 dogs to Woofy Acres in 2020-2023. In February, the OC Register reported that Wooly Acres abandoned 32 dogs at a dog boarding facility last year. Some were in the facility for two years. Woofy Acres is delinquent on its bilk and state -mandated paperwork. Almost half of the abandoned cogs were given to Woofy Acres by OC Animal Care in 2021. The OC shelter gave many more dogs to Wooly Acres in 2022 and 2023; what happened to them is unknown. Spokesperson ALxa Pratt told the Register that "the ageno was unaware of eniv problems with FVoofy Acres ,Then it released dogs to the rescue, the last ones going in early January. " But Jaime Link's September I O, 2023 email tells a different story. OC was s-ery aware of problems through the first-hand observations of conscientious staff. It is unknown what Ic—itch the sheler did, hit it teems it didin, I es- ny In s cidy Wool} Act-'s charity status with the state. Michael Mavrol On1110115. an animal is elfare adv ocate, said, "Mid /r c/ and /I ow/,nc OC.I C slcJl love, the animals and are doing their best to get good outcomes for them. I applaud Jaime Link and the animal c o, r ,eilf, i on spoke up Then did the right that;. The -I eh reel a botru sh, her ix oasible. Hot es er, fire lot) managers at the shelter and OC Community Resources don't show the same concern for therzi%ere of the amm,d.c in their core. I her falsely claim that tbei ,lido 7 l nor there were any problems-" The shelter just kept handing animals over to W'oofy Acres. In thee last five months of 2021. the shcher gave 48 dogs to Wooly Acres after Woofy Acres had already abandoned dogs. Of those, 23 dogs were handed over after Jaime Link's red -flag email describing erratic behavior and sitnis o: hoarding. Unaccounted animals include Tate, Bonnie, and Gadget, who came from Fullerton. None of these dogs are in the boarding facility. The shelter booked them as successes in its statistics, but the actual fate of the animals is unknown. OC residents concerned about what happened to these does can [fittp:i/The%20OCAC%20has%20been%20critici7ed%20for%20not%20trackingDD/20aninral,",,20in°a20its%20statistics,%20ulving',20pet%20bunnies,%20hamsters,%20and/20guinea%20pigs%20tt era%20pohcies.%20On%20September%2010%20last%20year,%20the%20OC%20animal°620sheher % 20handed%20over%20rescue%20dogs%2OBaron,%20Kate,%20Enzo,%20and%20Nevin%20t the Board of Supervisors and their local elected officials to ask for a full accounting. OC Register, March 5, 2024 Animal rescue abandons dozens of dogs at Rowland Heights kennel Dogs from OC agency among 32 abandoned by group bans //www ocre0ster com/2024/03/04/animal-rescue-abandons-dozens-of-dogs-at-rowland-heights-shelter/ Excerpts: Especially troubling to animal activists is that Orange County Animal Care has released 128 dogs to Wooly Acres since 2019, according to county records compiled by activist Michael Mavrovouniotis. "The Orange County shelter just takes the view that we don't care it ho takes the animals as long as we get them off our books, " He believes Orange County Animal Care should do a better job of screening anima/ rescues and following up on placements. "It's part of (Orange County's) reliance on rescues," Mavrovouniotis said 'The shelter is not doing enough to make adoptions easier and their safety valve is to push as many animals as possible ... to rescues." OC Register, March 2, 2024 Fewer `fixes' mean more dead cats in Orange County htms://www.ocregister.com/2024/03/0 1/fewer-fixes-mean-more-dead-cats-in-orange-county/?share=ercnnptOsefl dsidoota Column: Animal services in Los Angeles, Long Beach, do better, while Riverside is all systems go to 'fix street cats and reduce deaths Excerpts: Consider: The city of Los Angeles racked up a "live outcome" rate of nenrh. I1 %for ,cite that enL red i is shelters last year. Just 190% were euthanized or died in care, according to city data. Orange County Animal Care, in contrast, racked up live outcomes ablest Ok 0'„1- arts. More than 30°6 were euthanized or died in care last year. That's an 8%jump in the raw number of dead cats over 2019 (to 1, 925 from 1, 779), even as the total numher ctt minnwded oats plunged by nearly a third (to 6,393 from 9, 369). Myriad studies have found that spaying and neutering street cats vusdr a>dnces rJ,crth. In 2019, the last year of the street cat spay/neuter program, 19% of cots died or here euthanized at OC Animal Care. In 2023, more than 30%died or were euthanized. Today, folks who bring healthy streetcars to the shelter are turned away and told to return the animal to where they found it, rescuers say. And it appears those cats make more cats. Who make more cats. And so on. To make a dentin the suffering, we can't fax one cat at a time. said Romina Yamashiro. The coumv must commit to high -volume, intensive TNR targeting large feral colonies. It's in O.C. 's strategic planfor the shelter. It's been urged by the grandjury. But, alas. "We're so frustrated," she said. "Orange County has a magnificent. $35 million facili It . several rtu gen sui tee three or four vets on staff. If we could make that work to provide spay and neuterfor feral cats, you'd see a reduction in intakes and that would help notjust the at, in the contmunin , but the people in the community. " The 14 cities that contract with Orange County for animal services — including Anaheim and Santa Ana should be outraged, she said. OC Register, February 11, 2024 Fewer dogs, more death, at OC Animal Care https7//www Qcregister com/2024/02/11/fewer-dogs-more-death-at-oc-anhnal-care/ Column: Comparison of pre- and post -pandemic years show failure of shelter policies, critics charge. But things are changing, shelter asks for support Excerpts: The "!; ill rate "for dogs at Orange County's main animal shelter shot up markedly under its appointment -centric visitation system, where folks couldn't browse the full furry inventory at their leisure. data suggests. Raoe,l than throe ing the doors all the war open, Orange County .stuck largely to pandemic protocol last year, preferring that people peruse pooch photos online, then make appointments to meet those aair rals in pecsno /...j "Coiher _ztiled it. Cnlics connterc=d Ilia/ the sI ,/,,n henepn d shelter managers, not animals or the adopting public. It's easier to not have all those pesky outside eyeballs on your operations, they charged. Tht c e haul ererr duv is ben,-i, ciin said hrn all the kennels pith adoptable aniina .shoo/d to I nu' the public ereir icier tits r'rc open. Naiin wth . the numher of dgTv trio n ire euthani-rcl or' who dial is care rose If, iwtde, it rose 54%in Orange County. That, Mavrovouniotis maintains, shox.s O.C. is clot;,, I( ci'tin,g tri <urg. "Br it nteI, is / looked ar. aaer, al I, u A don't explain OCAC's dctlete, kc'said. Yes. folks, please. ah.rohnely. Foster' I olrinteei-' Help our unnamed animals be named and loved again! Let them sleep nn the hed.i We may be a bit noirs, not it seems that s 11poi ring the shelter, and opening it wider as activists demand, are not necessorih annually exclusive things. "It's quite simple, realh_ " said Boyer. "Thor need to open up the shelter all the way, all the buildings, so people can walk through and look at all the available dogs. It was working fine before COVID. Why don't pool back to doing what Jori did?" The numbers, hot c rc maintains, understate the full ntagnirude ofthe problem. "Because ofslow adoptions, the shelter got severely overcrowded in the fall. A lot of dogs weren't going to make it out alive, but the hangar fire brought in the .ISPC:I ihat .toned 100+dogs. "Under the partial re -opening, the puhhc can rinr onh ahont 65 to 70 dogs. But the shelter has about 100 dogs available for adoption. Visitors should be able to see all of them in their kennels. The shelter shouldn't be hiding 30 to 35 dogs out of sight. " Fullerton Observer, January 2, 2024 Animal Advocates Call for Independent Investigation of OC Animal Care https'l/fullertonohserver com/2024/01 /02; animal-advocates-call-for-yid,pendent-investigation-of-oc-animal-care/ Excerpts with added web Links to supporting documents: In just 20 months, OC Animal Care (OCAC) gave 273 rodents, 200 rabbits, and other small pets to a reptile group. On a recent similar case involving animals from San Diego, the Sacramento Bee reports that: `Information clearly indicates (the reptile breeder's) intention to use these animals as feed instead offending them adoptive homes." Snapshots of email correspondence obtained via Public Record requests show that the OC shelter typically offered many small nets at once. The reptile group then took rodents and rabbits in bulk without asking for precise numbers and types ofanimals. That's highly unusual. OC Animal Care made this reptile group its primary destination for small pets. In the past, [the reptile group] has advertised the availability of feeder" rodents, including live ones. An independent outside investigator must be appointed directly by the Board of Supervisors to get a verifiable paper trail for every animal the OC shelter handed over to the reptile group. OC Register, December 10, 2023 Animal officials promise compassion, but offer euthanasia httns://www. ocreaister. com/2023112/09/animal-officials-nromise-compassion-but-offer-euthanasia/ This item has also been picked up by a think tank and by Newsbreak: IMps�ilwww newsbreak.com/cahfornia-state'3266656921694-why-are-califomia-s-animal-shehers-kdby-so-many-nets hitns://reason.com/2023/ 12/ 15/whv-are-califomias-t)ublicly-funded-animal-shelters-are-kiRine-so-manv-nets/ Excerpt Ohviously, fewer people will fall in love with a purring or harking huddy if they can't wander through the kennels and see which animal pulls at their heartstrings. You can no more pick out a pet hosed or rr ,iu h r s photo than ,. oe can ph I, om a y:on.tc �okh ou their dating website bro. Animal Care increased the number ofwalk-in visits amid criticism, but it's still absurdly limited and 1 gu' e u/, I. In to "at inlo a/err a r ,,/h long pair or it.e p/wne line. The bureaucrats it am au tar/lilr to - la,gest manic Ipoi .,phial -car olurrmien be 1/ fIcst-depict these customer nv tcnr/lh cumud-ttarmirtg policies as a means to protect the critters ,from stress and prorcct doe puhhc from animal lwc, . Dz reoGn, it s,tust da• /crest instance of government putting the emplovees , orn enteuec above the public good OC Register, December 2, 2023 OC Animal Care sought to avoid optics of sending bunnies to local reptile rescue group httos://www. ocregister.com/2023/12/01/oc-animal-care-sought-to-avoid-optics-of-sending-bunnies-to-local-reptile-rescue-group/ Voice of OC, November 22, 2023 The OC Animal Shelter Lied About Its Safety Record. It Needed an Excuse to Keep the Kennels Off -Limits and Ditch Its Strategic Plan. httos://voiceofoc.ore/2023/ I 1 /mavrovouniotis-the-oc-animal-shelter-lied-about-its-safetv-record-it-needed-an-excuse-to-keen-the-kennels-of£-limits-and-ditch-its-strategic-elan/ The county misinformed the public and the Grand Jury. It understated the number of bites that occurred at the animal shelter in 2021-2022. In reality, shelter policies resulted in no safety improvements. False statistics served as a smokescreen for disregarding the Strategic Plan, blocking public access, and lowering animal care standards. Voice of OC, November 14, 2023 Yamashiro: OC Animal Care Gave Hundreds of Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Birds to a Reptile Group. What Happened to Them? httosJIvoiceofoe.org/2023/ 11/yamashho-oc-animal-care-gave-hundreds-of-rabbits-guinea-pis-and-birds-to-a-reptile-group-what-happened-to-them/ Voice of OC, October 25, 2023 Lawther: Animal Shelter Deteriorates as County Bureaucracy Keeps Supervisors in the Dark https:/lvoiceofoc.orgt2023/ 10/lawther-animal-shelter-deteriorates-as-county-bureaucracy-keeps-supervisors-in-the-dark/ OC Community Resources covered up the deterioration of the animal shelter. It put together a false narrative for internal use, but kept it from the public. Meanwhile, the shelter's kill rate is rising, dogs get very little socialization, and data collection is dismal. Why is the shelter flouting its own Strategic Plan? OC Register, October 14, 2023 Advocates horrified over mysterious fate of small animals httos://www.ocre ' ter.com/2023/10/13/advocates horrified over mysterious fate of small animals/oshare saaeotvseccmamsawlie httos://www.ocretdster.com/2023/ 10/13/advocates-horrified-over-mvsterious-fate-of-small-animals/ Voice of OC, September 20, 2023 How to Fix OC Animal Care? Use the Strategic Plan! Mips://voiceofoc.org/2023/09/mawovouniotis-how-to-fix-oc-animal-care-use-the-strategic-plan/ OC Community Resources is mismanaging the animal shelter. More animals are getting killed. Animal care and behavior assessment are substandard, creating dangerous conditions. Kennel staff and volunteers are exhausted. There's a solution: Implement the animal shelter's Strategic Plan. Get off pandemic mode. Re -open the kennel areas to adopters. Voice of OC, August 24, 2023 Barba: OC Animal Care Needs to Get Its Facts Straight httos://voiceofoc.org/2023/08/barba-oc-animal-care-needs-to-get-its-facts-strai rt OCAC is making false claims to cover up its poor performance. It can't even count its animals correctly. Although fewer animals are coming in than pre -pandemic, the shelter has higher kin rates and longer stays. More adopted animals end up returned. OCAC has been failing its Strategic Plan - and hiding it. Fullerton Observer, August 16, 2023 (This is a multi -section article. Make sure you scroll down!) OC residents raise concerns over OC Animal Care shelter Orange County Tax Payers and Homeless Animals Deserve Better OC Animal Care is continuing to mislead the public https�//fWlertonobserver com/2023/08/16/oe-residents-raise-concerns-over-oc-animal-care-shelter/ Voice of OC, August 7, 2023 Lawther: OC Animal Care is Unable to Keep Track of its Animals https://voiceofoc.orV/2023/08/lawther-oc-animal-care-is-unable-to-keep-track-of-its-animals/ OCAC appears to have fabricated the only 2023 animal statistics it has published so far. We effectively know nothing about current animal intakes, outcomes, or kill rates. What we do know is that their data can't be trusted. It's time for the Board of Supervisor to act. Los Angeles Times, June 9, 2023 Status quo at O.C. animal shelter `unacceptable' as euthanasia rates rise, report says httos//www.latimes. com/cahfornia/story/2023-06-08/orange-county-animal-care-sheher-grand-iurv-report-dogs-cats-euthanized KTLA 5 News, June 9, 2023 Grand jury raises concerns about OC Animal Care's policies httos-/'ktla com/news/local-news/grand-iuU-raises-concerns-about-oc-animal-cares-policies/ OC Register, June 9, 2023 OC Grand Jury raises concerns with management, animal welfare at OC Animal Care lhttps //www ocregster com/2023/06/09/oc-grand--jwv-raises-concerns-with-management-animal-welfare-at-oc-anunal-care/ Voice of OC, June 8, 2023 Grand Jury: OC Animal Shelter Needs Updated Policies to Stop Killing More Animals httos://voiceofoc.or 20P/ 23/06/grand-jruv-oc-animal-sheher-needs-updated-policies-to-stop-killing-more-animals/ Fullerton Observer, June 7, 2023 Grand Jury Report: The State of Animal Welfare Overseen by the County of Orange hnus'/lfullerionobse*cer.com12023/Ob/07/,grand-fury-report-the-state-ol-anunal-welfare-overseen-by-the-county-of-orange/_ OC Register, May 11, 2023 OC's animal shelter still a killing zone https,//www.ocregister.com/2023/05/11/ocs-animal-shelter-still-a-kilbn -zg one OC Register, May 10, 2023 Revamp Orange County Animal Care shelter policies, critics tell OC supervisors https://www.ocrei ister.com/2023/05/10/revamp-orange-county-animal-care-sheItcUohcies-critics-tell-oc-supewisors/ KNX News, May 8, 2023 Orange County animal shelter kill rates double for adult dogs in 3 years htms://www. audaey. corn/knmews/news/locaVorange-county-animal-shcher-kill-rates-double-in-3-years OC Register, May 7, 2023 More adult dogs dying at OC Animal Care, kennels largely off-limits https://www.ocregister.corn/2023/05/07/more-adult-dogsadying-at-oc-animal-care-kennels-largely-off-limits/?share=toceedmere orlaO Date: 3/22/202612:50:16 PM From "Michael Mavrovouniotis" To: "Public Comment" publiccomnient@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Public comment for city council, March 24, 2026, agenda # 17 Waring: 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. Honorable City Council, I am a volunteer data scientist for the non -profits Social Compassion in Legislation & Social Compassion. I published four peer -reviewed research papers on animal sheltering in the last 19 months. You can find explanations of my research for a general audience here: htips://www.growkudos.com/profile/michael mavrovouniotis and the rest of my research profile here: htips://www.researchp_te.net/12rofile/Michael-Mavrovouniotis e.net/12rofile/Michael-Mavrovouniotis At the moment, OC Animal Care is your only option. Understandably, you'll sign the contract. But you can, in addition: - Tell OC Animal Care that you expect them to follow their 2018 Strategic Plan, approved unanimously by the Board of Supervisors. That's the performance standard, not whatever a random manager decides from one month to the next. - Tell city staff to study an alternative: An animal shelter that is community -centered and practices prevention rather than reaction. Such a shelter would save money for the city, because prevention is more cost-effective, and because the community would contribute via donations and volunteering. In case you didn't know it... Any donations currently offset the county's cost share for the unincorporated areas, but not the cities. If somebody leaves a $500,000 bequest to the shelter, it doesn't change the city's costs or the services, it only reduces the county's out-of-pocket cost by $500,000. Date: 3/24/2026 5:43:50 PM Front "Stephanie Mercadante To: "Public Comment" publiccorrnnentCdanaheim.net Subject: [EXTERNAL] Residents Demand Clarity on Water Safety, PFAS, and Perchlorate Contandnation 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. CotmclTrmbers, Do you, as Councilmembers, actually know without hesitation that Anaheim's drinking water is safe? Have you asked that question recently? Because residents are paying attention, and they are documenting what they see. In Anaheim Hills, people have recorded repeated hydrant flushing. Hydrant flushing can be normal when it is routine maintenance. But when it happens right before water testing, it raises a different question. It raises the question of whether the City is trying to clean out the system so the results look better than what residents drink every day. Here is why this matters. On September 17, 2025, a valve was opened 22 percent. On September 23, it was opened to about 50 percent. Opening a valve like that pushes a huge amount of water through the pipes. That can temporarily make the water appear cleaner, but it does not reflect normal conditions. Turbidity should be between .01 and .06. On September 23, itjumped to 3.2. That is not a small difference. That is a sign that something is wrong. So the public deserves a straight answer. Why was so much water flushed right before testing? Was the City trying to influence the results? Or is Anaheim simply comfortable wasting hundreds of thousands of gallons of water without explanation? Then there is Well 51, which serves West Anaheim. The State notified the City that this well had elevated PFOS levels. PFOS is part of the PFAS family. These are forever chemicals. They do not break down. They stay in the soil, they stay in the water, and they stay in our bodies. They are linked to cancer and long-term health problems. Residents deserve to know when the City was notified, whether the well was shut down immediately, and whether the public was told the truth or left drinking contaminated water without knowing it. We also need to talk about perchlorates. These chemicals are used in rocket fuel, explosives, and fireworks. They interfere with the thyroid and can affect metabolism and child development. Anaheim's own water data has shown elevated perchlorate levels in certain areas. Fireworks fallout is a known source of perchlorate contamination. So when the City insists fireworks are harmless, yet perchlorates show up in the water, residents have every right to question that narrative. And here is the part the City avoids. Why are residents paying for the cleanup? Why are families and taxpayers covering the cost of PFAS and perchlorate remediation while the companies that created the contamination are shielded from any real accountability? Forgive me for being facetious. We all know why. Those polluters are the people this City actually serves. They get protection. Residents get the bill. This is the pattern. When residents raise concerns, the City minimizes them. When data looks bad, the focus shifts to optics instead of solutions. When transparency is needed, the public gets silence. Before we hear another polished statement about rejecting the premise of the question, I will leave you with this: You and your families are drinking this water too. This is not political. It is about safety. Is the water safe or not? If it is safe, show the proof. If it is not, tell the truth. Thank you. Date: 3/21/2026 4:37:07 PM From: "S R" To: "Ryan Balius" R lalius@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" publicconrment@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheim.net Subject: [EXTERNAL] Meeting 3-24-26 Agenda Items 24 & 25 —Anaheim Ilills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) — Response to Rehearing Denial and Related Actions 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. Date: 3/21/26 Honorable Councilmember Ryan Balius, Thankyou for your time and consideration of this matter. I recognize the complexity of the issues before you and the responsibility involved in balancing community needs, development, and public safety. This response is offered in good faith and is intentionally focused on a small number of key procedural and analytical considerations that remain unresolved in the record and are important to ensuring a complete and informed decision -making process. 1. Incomplete Wildfire Evacuation Analysis The City acknowledges that a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan is currently in development, yet the Project was approved prior to completion of that analysis. This raises a fundamental concern under CEQA, which requires decisions to be based on the best available information —particularly where public safety is at stake. The evacuation analysis relied upon in the ElRdoes not appear to incorporate: • Updated regional traffic conditions • Real -world human behavior during emergency evacuations • Cumulative impacts across known bottlenecks and constrained evacuation routes Approving the Project while a City -initiated evacuation study remains incomplete creates a disconnect between acknowledged risk and the conclusions relied upon for approval. 2. Procedural Limitations on Public Participation The administrative record reflects that the public hearing was formally closed on January 13, 2026, while deliberations and consideration of the Project continued thereafter. Although general public comment was permitted at subsequent meetings, this is not equivalent to participation within an open public hearing tied to active deliberation. This distinction matters. Meaningful participation under CEQA is intended to occur within the decision -making framework itself, where public input can directly inform the outcome. The structure used here limited that opportunity. 3. Departure from Adopted Public Comment Procedures The Project involved legislative components, yet public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker without a clear explanation in the record for deviating from the City's standard five-minute allocation for legislative matters. Adherence to established procedures is essential to maintaining consistency and public trust. Where deviations occur, the basis for those decisions should be clearly documented. 4. Inconsistent Project Description — Parking Discrepancy The administrative record contains conflicting information regarding required parking: • Draft FIR: 1,075 spaces • Parking Study: 963 spaces While this discrepancy has been acknowledged, it does not appear to have been fully reconciled in the record. A stable and internally consistent project description is foundational under CEQA, as it directly informs the analysis and the findings relied upon for approval. 5. Access to Information and Transparency Certain materials requested during the review process, including internal communications and technical evaluations, were not made available. These materials are relevant to understanding how key analyses —particularly those related to fire safety and evacuation —were evaluated and relied upon. Access to this information supports informed public participation and confidence in the decision -making process. Conclusion This response is not intended to restate the full appeal, but rather to highlight a set of focused considerations that remain unresolved in the administrative record. Taken together, these issues raise important questions about whether the Project was reviewed and approved based on a complete and procedurally consistent framework. At minimum, the record reflects: • Approval prior to completion of a comprehensive evacuation analysis • Limitations on meaningful public participation during deliberation • Inconsistencies in core project data • Deviations from standard procedural practices For these reasons, I respectfully request that the Council grant the appeal, or at minimum, remand the matter for further analysis and procedural clarification to ensure that the decision is based on a complete and consistent record. This correspondence is submitted to ensure the administrative record accurately reflects the procedural and analytical issues raised prior to final action. Respectfully Submitted, Shelly Robbins Date: 3/21/2026 4:41:56 PM Franc "S R"— To: "Carlos A. Leon" C-con@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" publiccon nient@anaheimnet Cc: "citycityclerk@anaheimnet" citycityclerk@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Meeting 3-24-26 Agenda Item 24 & 25 —Anaheim I4ills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) — Response to Rehearing Denial and Related Actions 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. Date: 3/21/26 Honorable Councilmember Carlos Leon, Thankyou for your time and consideration of this matter. I recognize the complexity of the issues before you and the responsibility involved in balancing community needs, development, and public safety. This response is offered in good faith and is intentionally focused on a small number of key procedural and analytical considerations that remain unresolved in the record and are important to ensuring a complete and informed decision -making process. 1. Incomplete Wildfire Evacuation Analysis The City acknowledges that a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan is currently in development, yet the Project was approved prior to completion of that analysis. This raises a fundamental concern under CEQA, which requires decisions to be based on the best available information —particularly where public safety is at stake. The evacuation analysis relied upon in the EIR does not appear to incorporate: • Updated regional traffic conditions • Real -world human behavior during emergency evacuations • Cumulative impacts across known bottlenecks and constrained evacuation routes Approving the Project while a C9ty-initiated evacuation study remains incomplete creates a disconnect between acknowledged risk and the conclusions relied upon for approval. 2. Procedural Limitations on Public Participation The administrative record reflects that the public hearing was formally closed on January 13, 2026, while deliberations and consideration of the Project continued thereafter. Although general public comment was permitted at subsequent meetings, this is not equivalent to participation within an open public hearing tied to active deliberation. This distinction matters. Meaningful participation under CEQA is intended to occur within the decision -making framework itself, where public input can directly inform the outcome. The structure used here limited that opportunity. 3. Departure from Adopted Public Comment Procedures The Project involved legislative components, yet public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker without a clear explanation in the record for deviating from the City's standard five-minute allocation for legislative matters. Adherence to established procedures is essential to maintaining consistency and public trust. Where deviations occur, the basis for those decisions should be clearly documented. 4. Inconsistent Project Description — Parking Discrepancy The administrative record contains conflicting information regarding required parking: • Draft EIR 1,075 spaces • Parking Study: 963 spaces While this discrepancy has been acknowledged, it does not appear to have been fully reconciled in the record. A stable and internally consistent project description is foundational under CEQA, as it directly informs the analysis and the findings relied upon for approval. 5. Access to Information and Transparency Certain materials requested during the review process, including internal communications and technical evaluations, were not made available. These materials are relevant to understanding how key analyses —particularly those related to fire safety and evacuation —were evaluated and relied upon. Access to this information supports informed public participation and confidence in the decision -making process. Conclusion This response is not intended to restate the full appeal, but rather to highlight a set of focused considerations that remain unresolved in the administrative record. Taken together, these issues raise important questions about whether the Project was reviewed and approved based on a complete and procedurally consistent framework At minimum, the record reflects: • Approval prior to completion of comprehensive evacuation analysis • Limitations on meaningful public participation during deliberation • Inconsistencies in core project data • Deviations from standard procedural practices For these reasons, I respectfully request that the Council grant the appeal, or at minimum, remand the matter for further analysis and procedural clarification to ensure that the decision is based on a complete and consistent record. This correspondence is submitted to ensure the administrative record accurately reflects the procedural and analytical issues raised prior to final action. Respectfully Submitted, Shelly Robbins Date: 3/21/2026 4:44:55 PM Front "S R" — To: "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" publiccomrent@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheim.net Subject: [EXTERNAL] Meeting 3-24-26 Agenda Item 24 & 25 —Anaheim Ilills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) — Response to Rehearing Denial and Related Actions 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. Date: 3/21/26 Honorable Mayor Aitken, Thankyou for your continued leadership and thoughtful engagement on this matter. I appreciate the care and consideration you have already brought to evaluating the Anaheim Hills Festival Project. As the Council considers Agenda Items 24-25, I am offering this focused response in good faith to highlight several procedural and analytical considerations that remain relevant to ensuring a complete and well -supported decision -making process. 1. Incomplete Wildfire Evacuation Analysis The City acknowledges that a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan is currently in development, yet the Project was approved prior to completion of that analysis. This raises a fundamental concern under CEQA, which requires decisions to be based on the best available information —particularly where public safety is at stake. The evacuation analysis relied upon in the EIR does not appear to incorporate: • Updated regional traffic conditions • Real -world human behavior during emergency evacuations • Cumulative impacts across known bottlenecks and constrained evacuation routes Approving the Project while a C9ty-initiated evacuation study remains incomplete creates a disconnect between acknowledged risk and the conclusions relied upon for approval. 2. Procedural Limitations on Public Participation The administrative record reflects that the public hearing was formally closed on January 13, 2026, while deliberations and consideration of the Project continued thereafter. Although general public comment was permitted at subsequent meetings, this is not equivalent to participation within an open public hearing tied to active deliberation. This distinction matters. Meaningful participation under CEQA is intended to occur within the decision -making framework itself, where public input can directly inform the outcome. The structure used here limited that opportunity. 3. Departure from Adopted Public Comment Procedures The Project involved legislative components, yet public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker without a clear explanation in the record for deviating from the City's standard five-minute allocation for legislative matters. Adherence to established procedures is essential to maintaining consistency and public trust. Where deviations occur, the basis for those decisions should be clearly documented. 4. Inconsistent Project Description — Parking Discrepancy The administrative record contains conflicting information regarding required parking: • Draft EIR 1,075 spaces • Parking Study: 963 spaces While this discrepancy has been acknowledged, it does not appear to have been fully reconciled in the record. A stable and internally consistent project description is foundational under CEQA, as it directly informs the analysis and the findings relied upon for approval. 5. Access to Information and Transparency Certain materials requested during the review process, including internal communications and technical evaluations, were not made available. These materials are relevant to understanding how key analyses —particularly those related to fire safety and evacuation —were evaluated and relied upon. Access to this information supports informed public participation and confidence in the decision -making process. Conclusion This response is not intended to restate the full appeal, but rather to highlight a set of focused considerations that remain unresolved in the administrative record. Taken together, these issues raise important questions about whether the Project was reviewed and approved based on a complete and procedurally consistent framework At minimum, the record reflects: • Approval prior to completion of comprehensive evacuation analysis • Limitations on meaningful public participation during deliberation • Inconsistencies in core project data • Deviations from standard procedural practices For these reasons, I respectfully request that the Council grant the appeal, or at minimum, remand the matter for further analysis and procedural clarification to ensure that the decision is based on a complete and consistent record. This correspondence is submitted to ensure the administrative record accurately reflects the procedural and analytical issues raised prior to final action. Respectfully Submitted, Shelly Robbins Date: 3/21/2026 4:47:58 PM Front "S R' To: "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" publicconnrrnt@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anahehnnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Meeting 3-24-26 Agenda Item 24 & 25 —Anaheim Ilills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) — Response to Rehearing Denial and Related Actions 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. Date: 3/21/26 Honorable Councilmember Kristen Maahs, Thankyou for your time and careful consideration of this matter. I appreciate the thoughtful approach you have taken in evaluating the Anaheim Ifills Festival Project. As the Council considers Agenda Items 24-25 for the City Council Meeting on 3-24-26, I am submitting this focused response in good faith to highlight several procedural and analytical considerations that remain important to ensuring a complete and consistent record. 1. Incomplete Wildfire Evacuation Analysis The City acknowledges that a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan is currently in development, yet the Project was approved prior to completion of LhaL analysis. This raises a fundamental concern under CEQA, which requires decisions Lo be based on Lhe best available information —particularly where public safety is at stake. The evacuation analysis relied upon in the EIRdoes not appear to incorporate: • Updated regional traffic conditions • Real -world human behavior during emergency evacuations • Cumulative impacts across known bottlenecks and constrained evacuation routes Approving the Project while a City -initiated evacuation study remains incomplete creates a disconnect between acknowledged risk and the conclusions relied upon for approval. 2. Procedural Limitations on Public Participation The administrative record reflects that the public hearing was formally closed on January 13, 2026, while deliberations and consideration of the Project continued thereafter. Although general public comment was permitted at subsequent meetings, this is not equivalent to participation within an open public hearing tied to active deliberation. This distinction matters. Meaningful participation under CEQA is intended to occur within the decision -making framework itself, where public input can directly inform the outcome. The structure used here limited that opportunity. 3. Departure from Adopted Public Comment Procedures The Project involved legislative components, yet public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker without a clear explanation in the record for deviating from the City's standard five-minute allocation for legislative matters. Adherence to established procedures is essential to maintaining consistency and public trust. Where deviations occur, the basis for those decisions should be clearly documented. 4. Inconsistent Project Description — Parking Discrepancy The administrative record contains conflicting information regarding required parking: • Draft EIR 1,075 spaces • Parking Study: 963 spaces While this discrepancy has been acknowledged, it does not appear to have been fully reconciled in the record. A stable and internally consistent project description is foundational under CEQA, as it directly informs the analysis and the findings relied upon for approval. 5. Access to Information and Transparency Certain materials requested during the review process, including internal communications and technical evaluations, were not made available. These materials are relevant to understanding how key analyses —particularly those related to fire safety and evacuation —were evaluated and relied upon. Access to this information supports informed public participation and confidence in the decision -making process. Conclusion This response is not intended to restate the full appeal, but rather to highlight a set of focused considerations that remain unresolved in the administrative record. Taken together, these issues raise important questions about whether the Project was reviewed and approved based on a complete and procedurally consistent framework At minimum, the record reflects: • Approval prior to completion of comprehensive evacuation analysis • Limitations on meaningful public participation during deliberation • Inconsistencies in core project data • Deviations from standard procedural practices For these reasons, I respectfully request that the Council grant the appeal, or at minimum, remand the matter for further analysis and procedural clarification to ensure that the decision is based on a complete and consistent record. This correspondence is submitted to ensure the administrative record accurately reflects the procedural and analytical issues raised prior to final action. Respectfully Submitted, i ell Robbins Date: 3/21/2026 4:50:09 PM From "S R" To: "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubaleava@anaheimnet, "Public Comnent" publiccomnenganaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anahehnnet Subject [EXTERNAL] Meeting 3-24-26 Agenda Items 24 & 25 —Anaheim I4ills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) — Response to Rehearing Denial and Related Actions 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. Date: 3/21/26 Honorable Councilmember Rubalcava, Thankyou for your continued time and attention to this matter. I recognize the complexity of the considerations before you and the many perspectives involved. This response is offered in good faith and is intended to highlight a small number of procedural and analytical considerations that may benefit from further clarification to support a fully informed decision. 1. Incomplete Wildfire Evacuation Analysis The City acknowledges that a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan is currently in development, yet the Project was approved prior to completion of that analysis. This raises a fundamental concern under CEQA, which requires decisions to be based on the best available information —particularly where public safety is at stake. The evacuation analysis relied upon in the ElRdoes not appear to incorporate: • Updated regional traffic conditions • Real -world human behavior during emergency evacuations • Cumulative impacts across known bottlenecks and constrained evacuation routes Approving the Project while a City -initiated evacuation study remains incomplete creates a disconnect between acknowledged risk and the conclusions relied upon for approval. 2. Procedural Limitations on Public Participation The administrative record reflects that the public hearing was formally closed on January 13, 2026, while deliberations and consideration of the Project continued thereafter. Although general public comment was permitted at subsequent meetings, this is not equivalent to participation within an open public hearing tied to active deliberation. This distinction matters. Meaningful participation under CEQA is intended to occur within the decision -making framework itself, where public input can directly inform the outcome. The structure used here limited that opportunity. 3. Departure from Adopted Public Comment Procedures The Project involved legislative components, yet public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker without a clear explanation in the record for deviating from the City's standard five-minute allocation for legislative matters. Adherence to established procedures is essential to maintaining consistency and public trust. Where deviations occur, the basis for those decisions should be clearly documented. 4. Inconsistent Project Description — Parking Discrepancy The administrative record contains conflicting information regarding required parking: • Draft EIR:1,07,5 spaces • Parking Study: 963 spaces While this discrepancy has been acknowledged, it does not appear to have been fully reconciled in the record. A stable and internally consistent project description is foundational under CEQA, as it directly informs the analysis and the findings relied upon for approval. 5. Access to Information and Transparency Certain materials requested during the review process, including internal communications and technical evaluations, were not made available. These materials are relevant to understanding how key analyses —particularly those related to fire safety and evacuation —were evaluated and relied upon. Access to this information supports informed public participation and confidence in the decision -making process. Conclusion This response is not intended to restate the full appeal, but rather to highlight a set of focused considerations that remain unresolved in the administrative record. Taken together, these issues raise important questions about whether the Project was reviewed and approved based on a complete and procedurally consistent framework At minimum, the record reflects: • Approval prior to completion of a comprehensive evacuation analysis • Limitations on meaningful public participation during deliberation • Inconsistencies in core project data • Deviations from standard procedural practices For these reasons, I respectfully request that the Council grant the appeal, or at minimum, remand the matter for further analysis and procedural clarification to ensure that the decision is based on a complete and consistent record. This correspondence is submitted to ensure the administrative record accurately reflects the procedural and analytical issues raised prior to final action. Respectfully Submitted, i ell Robbins Date: 3/21/2026 4:52:48 PM From "SR"— To: "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurti(aJanaheimnet, "Public Comment" publicconiment@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anahehnnet Subject [EXTERNAL] Meeting 3-24-26 Agenda Item 24 & 25 —Anaheim I4ills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) — Response to Rehearing Denial and Related Actions 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. Date: 3/21/26 Honorable Councilmember Campos Kurtz, Thankyou for your time and thoughtful consideration of this matter. Given the importance of ensuring a complete and consistent record, particularly on issues related to public safety. This response is offered in good faith to highlight a few key procedural and analytical considerations that remain relevant to the decision before you. 1. Incomplete Wildfire Evacuation Analysis The City acknowledges that a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan is currently in development, yet the Project was approved prior to completion of that analysis. This raises a fundamental concern under CEQA, which requires decisions to be based on the best available information —particularly where public safety is at stake. The evacuation analysis relied upon in the ElRdoes not appear to incorporate: • Updated regional traffic conditions • Real -world human behavior during emergency evacuations • Cumulative impacts across known bottlenecks and constrained evacuation routes Approving the Project while a City -initiated evacuation study remains incomplete creates a disconnect between acknowledged risk and the conclusions relied upon for approval. 2. Procedural Limitations on Public Participation The administrative record reflects that the public hearing was formally closed on January 13, 2026, while deliberations and consideration of the Project continued thereafter. Although general public comment was permitted at subsequent meetings, this is not equivalent to participation within an open public hearing tied to active deliberation. This distinction matters. Meaningful participation under CEQA is intended to occur within the decision -making framework itself, where public input can directly inform the outcome. The structure used here limited that opportunity. 3. Departure from Adopted Public Comment Procedures The Project involved legislative components, yet public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker without a clear explanation in the record for deviating from the City's standard five-minute allocation for legislative matters. Adherence to established procedures is essential to maintaining consistency and public trust. Where deviations occur, the basis for those decisions should be clearly documented. 4. Inconsistent Project Description — Parking Discrepancy The administrative record contains conflicting information regarding required parking: • Draft EIR:1,07,5 spaces • Parking Study: 963 spaces While this discrepancy has been acknowledged, it does not appear to have been fully reconciled in the record. A stable and internally consistent project description is foundational under CEQA, as it directly informs the analysis and the findings relied upon for approval. 5. Access to Information and Transparency Certain materials requested during the review process, including internal communications and technical evaluations, were not made available. These materials are relevant to understanding how key analyses —particularly those related to fire safety and evacuation —were evaluated and relied upon. Access to this information supports informed public participation and confidence in the decision -making process. Conclusion This response is not intended to restate the full appeal, but rather to highlight a set of focused considerations that remain unresolved in the administrative record. Taken together, these issues raise important questions about whether the Project was reviewed and approved based on a complete and procedurally consistent framework At minimum, the record reflects: • Approval prior to completion of a comprehensive evacuation analysis • Limitations on meaningful public participation during deliberation • Inconsistencies in core project data • Deviations from standard procedural practices For these reasons, I respectfully request that the Council grant the appeal, or at minimum, remand the matter for further analysis and procedural clarification to ensure that the decision is based on a complete and consistent record. This correspondence is submitted to ensure the administrative record accurately reflects the procedural and analytical issues raised prior to final action. Respectfully Submitted, Shelly Robbins Date: 3/21/2026 4:54:50 PM From "SR"— To: "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" publicconunent@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheim.net Subject [EXTERNAL] Meeting 3-24-26 Agenda Items 24 & 25 —Anaheim I4ills Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) — Response to Rehearing Denial and Related Actions 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. Date: 3/21/26 Honorable Councilmember Meeks, Thankyou for your time and continued engagement on this matter. I recognize the level of community interest and the responsibility involved in weighing complex decisions that affect both current and future residents. This response is offered in good faith to highlight several focused considerations that may support a clear and well -supported path forward. 1. Incomplete Wildfire Evacuation Analysis The City acknowledges that a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan is currently in development, yet the Project was approved prior to completion of that analysis. This raises a fundamental concern under CEQA, which requires decisions to be based on the best available information —particularly where public safety is at stake. The evacuation analysis relied upon in the ElRdoes not appear to incorporate: • Updated regional traffic conditions • Real -world human behavior during emergency evacuations • Cumulative impacts across known bottlenecks and constrained evacuation routes Approving the Project while a City -initiated evacuation study remains incomplete creates a disconnect between acknowledged risk and the conclusions relied upon for approval. 2. Procedural Limitations on Public Participation The administrative record reflects that the public hearing was formally closed on January 13, 2026, while deliberations and consideration of the Project continued thereafter. Although general public comment was permitted at subsequent meetings, this is not equivalent to participation within an open public hearing tied to active deliberation. This distinction matters. Meaningful participation under CEQA is intended to occur within the decision -making framework itself, where public input can directly inform the outcome. The structure used here limited that opportunity. 3. Departure from Adopted Public Comment Procedures The Project involved legislative components, yet public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker without a clear explanation in the record for deviating from the City's standard five-minute allocation for legislative matters. Adherence to established procedures is essential to maintaining consistency and public trust. Where deviations occur, the basis for those decisions should be clearly documented. 4. Inconsistent Project Description — Parking Discrepancy The administrative record contains conflicting information regarding required parking: • Draft EIR:1,07,5 spaces • Parking Study: 963 spaces While this discrepancy has been acknowledged, it does not appear to have been fully reconciled in the record. A stable and internally consistent project description is foundational under CEQA, as it directly informs the analysis and the findings relied upon for approval. 5. Access to Information and Transparency Certain materials requested during the review process, including internal communications and technical evaluations, were not made available. These materials are relevant to understanding how key analyses —particularly those related to fire safety and evacuation —were evaluated and relied upon. Access to this information supports informed public participation and confidence in the decision -making process. Conclusion This response is not intended to restate the full appeal, but rather to highlight a set of focused considerations that remain unresolved in the administrative record. Taken together, these issues raise important questions about whether the Project was reviewed and approved based on a complete and procedurally consistent framework At minimum, the record reflects: • Approval prior to completion of a comprehensive evacuation analysis • Limitations on meaningful public participation during deliberation • Inconsistencies in core project data • Deviations from standard procedural practices For these reasons, I respectfully request that the Council grant the appeal, or at minimum, remand the matter for further analysis and procedural clarification to ensure that the decision is based on a complete and consistent record. This correspondence is submitted to ensure the administrative record accurately reflects the procedural and analytical issues raised prior to final action. Respectfully Submitted, Shelly Robbins Date: 3/23/2026 9:42:25 AM From: "Tina Aluzd - Lounsbury" "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerkganaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" To: AAitkenganaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahsganaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Carlos A Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaz@anaheimnet Subject: [EX-fERNA11 Comprehensive Follovr-Up and Request for Reconsideration- Unresolved Public Safety, CEQA, and Safety Element Issues - Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project (DA 2023-00043 / FEIR No. 358) Some people who received this message don t often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Date: March 23, 2026 City ofAnaheim Mayor and Members of the City Council 200 S. AmbeimBoulevard Anaheim CA 92805 Via Errmrl publicco1=ntCc�,anaheimnet cityclerk�cLarralreimnet; aaitken(�anaheimnet; lm mhs(&anabeimnet; nmeeksLa)anaheunnet; cleorgAnaheimnet; rbalius@a,anaheimnet; nrubaleavaa,ariaheimnet; jdiaaganaheimnet Subject: Comprehensive FollowUp and Request for Reconsideration- Unresolved Public Safety, CEQA, and Safety Element Issues - Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project (DA 2023-00043 / FEIR No. 358) Mayor Aitken and Members of the City Council, I respectUly submit this follow-up correspondence for inclusion in the administrative record regarding Development Application No. 2023-00043 and Final Emnronmmntal hipact Report (FEIR) No. 358. This letter is intended to: 1. Reiterate and incorporate all prior objections and concerns submitted in my February 3, March 3, and March 5, 2026 letters 2. Address the lack of substantive response to those connrnnications 3. Introduce new, material information regarding the City's incomplete wildfire evacuation study 4. Request reconsideration or delay of final actions pending frill and consistent safety analysis I. Lack of Response and Incomplete Administrative Record To date,l have not received a response to any of my letters addressing the detailed public health, wildfire evacuation, emergency response, and Safety Elerrunt concerns raised in prior correspondence. Given the technical, legal, and life -safety nature of these issues, the absence of formal responses raises concern as to whether: • These issues have been fully evaluated • The administrative record adequately reflects them • Required findings are supported by substantial evidence IL Professional and Public Health Perspective As a Registered Nurse (RN) and Public Health Nurse (PUN) with emergency department and critical care experience, my concerns are grounded in: • Emergency response operations • Hospital surge capacity • Disaster preparedness • Population -level risk assessment Wildfire evacuation is not theoretical -it is a predictable, recurring public health emergency in Anaheim MIS. III. Historical Wildfire Evidence and Known System Failures Anaheim Hills has experienced multiple significant wildfire events: • 1982 Gypsum Canyon Fire • 1993 Eastern Anaheim Hills Fire • 2008 Freeway Complex Fire • 2017 Canyon Fire 2 These events revealed consistent and docunented vulnerabilities: • Linited evacuation routes • Congestion along Santa Ana Canyon Road • Evacuation bottlenecks • Delayed energencyresponse access • Simultaneous ingress/egress conflicts These are recurring structural conditions —not hypothetical scenarios. IV. Fundamental Change in Risk Profile — Residential vs. Conmrercial Use The project replaces intermittent commercial use with 447 residential units, introducing: • A pennanent 24-hour population • Sleeping residents during nighttime emergencies • Children, elderly, and medically fragile individuals • Mobility-lirrited residents requiring assistance • Oxygen -dependent and chronic illness populations Unlike a theater, residential use creates: • Continuous evacuation demand • Increased EMS utilization • Greater reliance on emergency systems This is a material and irreversible change in risk conditions. V. Emergency Medical and Healthcare SystemIn"ets From a clinical operations peispective: During wildfire events: • EMS response times increase • Arrbulance access is delayed • Hospitals experience surge conditions • Emergency departments may go on diversion • Shelters must support medically vulnerable populations Wildfire smoke exposure leads to: • Asthnna exacerbations • COPD decompensation • Increased cardiac events • Pediatric respiratory distress • Anxiety and panic -related emergencies These are evidence -based public health impacts that scale with population density. VI. Evacuation Modeling Imitations The FEIR acknowledges: • Increased evacuation tires • Sigmacant unavoidable impacts • Reliance on a Statement of Overriding Considerations However, evacuation models often Earl to reflect real -world conditions: • Panic behavior • Disabled vehicles blocking lanes • Smoke -reduced visibility • Power outages • Nighttime evacuations • Sin tiltaneous multi -neighborhood evacuation Evacuation failure is nonlinear —once capacity is exceeded, congestion escalates rapidly. VH. NEW MATERIAL ISSUE —Missing Wildfire EvacuationStudv A critical issue now requires imnrzdiate attention: The City's (Mn Wildfire Evacuation Study Has Not Been Completed • Approved: March 2025 • Cost: $180,000 • Expected completion: —9 months • Status (March2026): Not delivered Yet: The Festival Project was approved without it The project directly depends on evacuation safety analysis The study was intended to answer the very risks under consideration VM. Inconsistency in Decision -Malmo The administrative record indicates: • Evacuation conditions require finther study Yet the approval implies: • Sufficient information already exists These positions are internally inconsistent and materially significant. IX. Potential Conflict of Interest • The Citys evacuation study contractor: Dudek • The developer's evacuation consultant: Dudek This raises legitirrrate concerns: • Independence of analysis • Objectivity of conclusions • Public confidence in findings Even the appearance of conflict is problematic in a life -safety context. X. Turing and Integrity of the Study Approving the project prior to study conpletiorr: • Alters baseline conditions • Risks invalidating study conclusions • Undennines the purpose of the study This creates a circular and compronised analytical framework. X1. General Plan Safety Element and Legal Consistency Under California law: • Gov. Code §65302(g): Safety Element mast address wildfire and evacuation • Gov. Code §65300.5: Internal consistency required Key Safety Element principles: • Mininvze wildfre exposure • Ensure evacuation capacity • Maintain emergency access • Avoid intensification without infrastructure support Parcel -level compliance 0 system -level safety The City mist demonstrate howthis project remains consistent with these policies. XII. CEQA and Statement of Overriding Considerations Under CEQA: • Significant impacts require substantial evidence • Overriding considerations must be supported Here, the City overrides: • Increased evacuation tines • Significant unavoidable impacts Without the CiV s own evacuation study, the evidentiary basis is incomplete. XIII. Cumulative Risk and Infrastructure Thift • Infrastructure improverrents extend to future years (e.g., 2029) • Risk begins immediately upon occupancy Cumulative development: • Incrementally increases evacuation demand • Pushes system toward threshold failure Anaheim Hills may be approaching that threshold. MV. Legal Fiscal and Ethical Ingplications Potential consequences include: • CEQA litigation • Challenges under Housing Accountability Act • Taxpayer -funded legal defense • Long term infrastructure strain If evacuation fame results in harm: • Consequences extend beyond legal compliance • Ethical responsibility becomes paramount XV. Request for Council Action hi light of all prior and newly presented information, I respectfully request that the City Council: 1. Delay Final Approval Actions Until the Wildfire Evacuation Study is corrpleted and released 2. Integrate Study Findings hito any final decision -milking 3. Provide Formal Written Response Addressing: • Evacuation capacity • Safety Element consistency • Role of incomplete study 4. Evaluate Rehearing / Reconsideration Based on: • New material information • Incomplete record • Potential inconsistencies XNT. Closing This is not opposition to housing. It is a request that decisions involving life safety be made with complete, consistent, and transparent analysis. Approving high -density residential developnent in a wildfire -prone hillside connunity without the City's own evacuation study is not consistent with Public health principles Emergency preparedness standards Sound phnnmg practice I respectfully urge the Council to take a measured, eviderice-based approach before proceeding further. Respectfully submitted, Tina R. Aluzzi L.ounsbury, BSN, RN, PHN Anaheim Hills Resident The preceding email message (including any attachrrents) tray contain information that is confidential, protected, or constitute nonpublic information. It is intended to be conveyed only to the designated recipient(s). If you are not the intended recipient of this message, please notify the sender by replying to this message, and then delete it from your system Use dissenmiation, distribution, or reproduction of this message by unintended recipients is not authorized and may be unlawtU Date: 3/23/202612:12:11 PM From "Andrew Winger" "Public Comment" publicconsuent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubaleava" N�Rubaleava@anaheimnet, Norma C. Ktutz NKiMz@anaheimnet, Knsten Maahs IdVIaahs(a),am im,net. Natalie Meeks NMeeks@anaheim.net Subject: [EXTERNAL] Rebuttal to Request for Rehearing from Petitioner Attachment: Request for Rehearing Rebuttal March 24.2026.pdf, You don't often get enrol fro L.eam why this is important 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. Dear City Council Members, I submitted the Request for Rehearing, so as the Petitioner I would like this opportunity to address concerns. Under normal circumstances, any of the 6 points raised as reasons to request a rehearing would be sufficient to grant one. Combined they make a compelling case. Alter reading Ilre document published by the City with regards to denying the Request for Rehearing, I think you need to take a serious look at 3 of the strongest unresolved issues from the response. Summarized below (Attached .pdf explains issues in detail): Issue 1— Wildfire Evacuation / CEQA The City approved the project while simultaneously conducting a comprehensive wildfire evacuation study —essentially admitting it did not yet fully understand evacuation risks in the area. The project directly affects the same evacuation routes and conditions that the study is evaluating. CEQA requires decisions to be based on the best available information. Here, the City knew critical data was actively being developed but chose to proceed without it. A project -level analysis cannot replace a system -wide evacuation study. Approving the project under these circumstances raises serious concerns that the decision was made without a complete understanding of public safety risks. Issue 2 — Labor Negotiations Influence The City's response focuses on the absence of a written requirement for union labor. But that misses the real issue: whether labor negotiations influenced the approval in practice. Federal law prohibits local governments from interfering in labor decisions —even indirectly. The record raises legitimate concerns. A councilmember publicly linked their support to labor engagement, and a labor agreement was finalized while the project was under consideration. Even if unwritten, such influence may still be improper. The City has not addressed whether the approval depended on that agreement, leaving a significant legal question unresolved. Video support: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89V2foY9zKc Issue 6 — Fair Hearing / Due Process The core problem is timing and fairness. The City closed the formal public hearing on January 13, but continued deliberating and considering new developments for weeks afterward —ultimately making its decision on March 3. During that period, the public had no opportunity to respond within the formal hearing process, only through general comment, which is not equivalent. This created a clear imbalance: the project continued evolving, but the public was locked out of meaningful participation. Due process requires that when new information or continued deliberation occurs, the hearing be reopened. That didn't happen here, undermining the fairness and legality of the process. I appreciate your consideration of this, Andrew Winger Formal Rebuttal Request for Rehearing Meeting on March 24, 2026 Anaheim Hills Festival Project DEV2023-00043 Prepared Submission Page 1 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #1: Failure to Consider Material Wildfire Evacuation Information I. The City's Response Frames the Issue Too Narrowly The City argues that the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) properly evaluated wildfire evacuation conditions based on the information available at the time of the Notice of Preparation (NOP), and that it was not obligated to delay approval until completion of the Citywide Wildfire Evacuation Plan. That framing misses the point. While CEQA analysis is typically based on information available during environmental review, that does not allow the City to ignore relevant information that is actively being developed —especially when it directly relates to the impacts at issue. The question here isn't whether the City had to wait indefinitely, but whether it moved forward despite knowing that critical evacuation data was in progress and unfinished. II. The City Itself Recognized Gaps in Existing Evacuation Analysis The City chose to initiate a comprehensive wildfire evacuation study, secured funding for it, and began work before approving the Project. That decision matters. It shows the City understood that current information about evacuation conditions —particularly in Anaheim Hills —was not complete. Otherwise, there would be no need for the study. This creates a clear inconsistency: the City acknowledged the need for deeper analysis, yet approved a project that will directly affect evacuation conditions before that analysis was finished or reviewed. III. The Project Directly Affects What the Study Is Evaluating The Festival Project increases residential density, adds traffic, and relies on the same evacuation routes currently under study. These are not tangential issues —they go to the heart of what the Wildfire Evacuation Plan is supposed to evaluate: whether residents can safely evacuate during a wildfire. Approving a project that changes those conditions while the City is still trying to understand them raises a basic concern: the decision may have been made without a full picture of the risks. IV. A Project -Level Study Is Not a Substitute for System -Wide Analysis The City points to a project -specific evacuation analysis and notes that it was peer -reviewed. Page 2 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 That may be true, but it doesn't resolve the issue. Project -level studies operate within a defined scope and set of assumptions. They are not designed to evaluate broader, system -wide evacuation capacity. The City's own wildfire plan, on the other hand, is intended to do exactly that —using more comprehensive data and a wider lens. Moving forward without that broader analysis risks relying on a narrower and potentially incomplete understanding of evacuation conditions. V. CEQA Requires Agencies to Use the Best Information Reasonably Available CEQA does not require agencies to wait forever for future studies. But it also does not allow them to disregard material information that is actively being developed and directly relevant. Here, the City knew: A comprehensive evacuation study was underway The study addressed the same conditions affected by the Project The results had not yet been completed or reviewed Under those circumstances, it is fair to question whether the City relied on the most complete and reliable information available before approving the Project. VI. Calling the Ongoing Study "Speculative" Doesn't Hold Up The City characterizes the evacuation plan as speculative because it is not finalized. But this is not a hypothetical study —it is funded, underway, and specifically designed to address evacuation risks in areas like Anaheim Hills. Its completion is expected, not uncertain. Dismissing it as speculative minimizes its significance. In reality, it is a concrete effort to answer the exact questions raised by this Project. VII. Proceeding Without This Information Raises Serious Concerns A prejudicial abuse of discretion can occur when an agency fails to follow required procedures or makes a decision unsupported by substantial evidence. By approving the Project while acknowledging that key evacuation analysis was still incomplete —and without incorporating those forthcoming findings —the City risks having made a decision without fully informing itself. That undermines confidence in the environmental review process and warrants reconsideration. Page 3 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Vill. Conclusion At its core, this issue is about timing and information. The City moved forward with approval while simultaneously working to better understand the very evacuation conditions affected by the Project. That disconnect raises legitimate concerns about whether the decision was based on a complete and accurate understanding of wildfire risk. For that reason, a rehearing is appropriate to ensure the Project is evaluated using the most complete and reliable information available. Page 4 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #2: Consideration of Labor Negotiations in Project Approval I. The City Frames the Issue Too Narrowly The City's response focuses on the claim that union labor was not formally required as part of the Development Agreement. That framing does not address the actual concern raised in the request for rehearing. The issue is not whether a written condition appears in the agreement. The question is whether approval of the project was, in practice, influenced —directly or indirectly —by the status or outcome of private labor negotiations. A public agency cannot avoid scrutiny simply because a condition was not reduced to writing if the record suggests it played a role in the decision -making process. II. Federal Law Prohibits Government Interference in Labor Decisions Federal labor law draws a clear line. Under doctrines such as Machinists preemption, local governments are prohibited from inserting themselves into areas that Congress intended to leave to the free play of economic forces. Decisions about whether to use union or non -union labor —and the terms of those agreements —fall squarely within that protected space. This limitation applies not only to explicit mandates, but also to subtler forms of influence, including pressure tied to discretionary approvals. III. The Relevant Inquiry Is What Occurred in Practice What matters is not just what was written, but what actually occurred. The administrative record raises legitimate concerns on that front. A councilmember publicly connected their support for the project to the developer's engagement with organized labor. Discussions regarding labor agreements took place alongside deliberations over project approval. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding with a union was finalized during the same timeframe that the Council was considering its decision. Taken together, these facts raise a central question: was the project approved based solely on traditional land -use considerations, or did the outcome of private labor negotiations play a role? Page 5 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 IV. The Absence of a Written Condition Does Not Resolve the Issue The City relies on the absence of a formal requirement in the Development Agreement. However, the law does not turn on whether a condition is written down. A decision may be improperly influenced even when the relevant factor is informal, implied, or understood. If a decision -maker signals that their vote is contingent on a labor agreement, and that agreement is then reached prior to final approval, it is reasonable to question whether the approval was based solely on permissible considerations. V. The City's Response Leaves Critical Questions Unanswered The City's response does not meaningfully address key issues, including: • Whether councilmembers relied on the existence of a labor agreement in casting their votes • Whether the project would have been approved absent such an agreement How the timing of the Memorandum of Understanding factored into the decision These are not peripheral concerns —they go directly to whether the process complied with governing law. VI. Applicable Legal Standard Under Code of Civil Procedure section 1094.5, a decision constitutes a prejudicial abuse of discretion if it is based on improper considerations or if the agency fails to proceed in the manner required by law. If project approval was influenced by labor negotiations that fall within an area preempted by federal law, that standard may be satisfied. VII. Conclusion This issue warrants further examination. A rehearing is both appropriate and necessary to ensure that the City's decision was grounded exclusively in legitimate land -use considerations and free from impermissible influences. Because the City's response does not fully address these concerns, denying rehearing would leave a significant legal issue unresolved. The request should therefore be granted. Page 6 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #6: Denial of a Fair Hearing I. The City Treats Public Comment as a Substitute for a Formal Hearing The City's response suggests that a fair hearing occurred because the public was allowed to speak at later meetings and submit written comments. But that misses the point. Those are not the same thing as a formal public hearing, and they shouldn't be treated as interchangeable. A formal hearing is where evidence is presented, testimony is structured, and the official record is built. It allows for clarification, follow-up, and meaningful engagement with the issues that actually matter to the decision. General public comment is different. It's more limited, less structured, and doesn't provide the same opportunity to engage with the substance of what's being decided. Relying on general comment as a substitute for reopening the hearing is not adequate. II. The City Continued Deliberating After Closing the Hearing The public hearing was closed on January 13, 2026. But the decision -making process didn't stop there. The City Council continued discussing the project over multiple meetings, considered new developments —including the status of a labor agreement —and ultimately made its final decision on March 3, 2026. In other words, the process was still active and evolving after the hearing was closed. When that happens —when new information and ongoing deliberation continue after a hearing ends — basic fairness requires reopening the hearing so the public can respond within the proper framework. That didn't happen here. Instead, the hearing stayed closed, and the public was limited to general comment, even as important developments continued to unfold. III. Allowing Public Comment Did Not Fix the Problem The City points to the number of participants-111 speakers and 522 emailsas evidence that the public had an opportunity to be heard. But this isn't about volume. It's about whether the process itself was fair. Page 7 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 The key question is whether the public had a meaningful opportunity to participate at the right time and in the right setting. General comment doesn't allow people to respond to new developments in a structured way. It doesn't provide an opportunity to formally rebut new information. And it doesn't ensure that what's said is treated as part of the official evidentiary record in the same way as hearing testimony. So while people were able to speak, their ability to meaningfully influence the outcome was limited. IV. The Process Was Not Evenly Balanced There was also a clear imbalance in how the process unfolded. During the deliberation period, the applicant was able to continue engaging with the City, and developments related to the project —including the labor agreement —continued to take shape. Meanwhile, the public had no comparable opportunity to respond within the formal hearing process. That creates a situation where one side can continue shaping the outcome, while the other is restricted to a less effective channel. That kind of imbalance raises serious concerns about fairness. V. The Timing of the Decision Shows Prejudice The City argues that no prejudice has been shown. But prejudice exists when a procedural flaw prevents meaningful participation, and the decision is made after that flaw occurs. That's exactly what happened here. Deliberations continued for weeks after the hearing was closed. Relevant developments occurred during that time. And the final vote took place without ever reopening the hearing. Under those circumstances, it's not necessary to prove the outcome would have changed only that the public was denied a fair chance to influence it. That standard is clearly met. VI. The City Did Not Follow Required Procedures A fair hearing isn't just about allowing comments. It requires a proper process. That includes a structured forum, an opportunity to respond to new developments, and a decision based on a complete and fairly developed record. Page 8 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 By closing the hearing too early and refusing to reopen it as the situation evolved, the City failed to follow that process. This amounts to a prejudicial abuse of discretion under Code of Civil Procedure § 1094.5. VII. Conclusion The core issue remains unaddressed: the hearing was closed while the decision -making process was still ongoing. Allowing general public comment did not provide an equivalent or legally sufficient opportunity for participation. Because the public was denied a meaningful chance to engage at a critical stage, the integrity of the process is in question. For these reasons, the Request for Rehearing should be granted. Page 9 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Date: 3/23/2026 12:27:43 PM From: "Grace BrancheI' "Public Comment" publiecommentCanaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken a�anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheim.net, "Ryan Balius" RBaliusCqanaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava a,anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns Regarding Traffic and Evacuation Analysis for Festival Project You don't often get email from Learn why this is mVortant 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. Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council, Ahead of your March 24 consideration of the Festival project rehearing, I would like to restate my concerns regarding both traffic conditions and emergency evacuation planning in Anaheim Hills. At the core, I am not confident that the current traffic and evacuation analyses accurately reflect present-day conditions. The assumptions being used appear disconnected from what residents are experiencing on a daily basis. The fonrer theater at the project site has not operated consistently for some time. Even when it was active, its impact on traffic was limited and largely local. The proposed development, however, would introduce a continuous and significantly higher volume of traffic into an area that is already heavily congested. Having lived here for about five years, I have seen a clear and steady decline in traffic conditions. What may have once been occasional congestion has become a daily reality. Any analysis that relies on idealized flow patterns or non -peak scenarios does not match the actual conditions residents face. This issue becomes even more critical when considering emergency evacuation. Wildfires do not occur on a predictable schedule, and an evacuation during peak traffic hours would present serious risks. While I recognize the City's efforts to improve emergency readiness since 2017. the "Know Your Way" approach has not been demonstrated under the most demanding, real -world conditions. Accounts from residents who experienced the Canyon Fire highlight how quickly evacuation routes can become overwhelmed. Before moving forward with additional development in a high fire -risk area already burdened by traffic constraints, I strongly urge the Council to require a more rigorous, scenario -based analysis —one that evaluates evacuation capacity during peak congestion rather than relying on averaged or theoretical conditions. I would also appreciate clarification regarding how this proposal differs from past decisions. The SALT project at Deer Canyon was denied in part due to concerns about traffic and infrastructure strain in this same area. From a resident's perspective, the Festival project raises many of the same issues. If there are meaningful distinctions that change the level of risk, it would be helpful for the community to understand them. Lastly, I encourage you to carefully consider the input of the residents you represent. Many District 6 residents have consistently voiced concerns about traffic and evacuation safety —concerns grounded in daily experience and public safety realities. As both Mayor and our District 6 representative, your role is especially important in ensuring these perspectives are fully considered before any final decisions are made. This is not opposition to development itself, but a request that decisions —particularly those involving evacuation safety —are made with thorough and realistic analysis. Given the increasing frequency and severity of wildfire risk, this issue warrants careful and deliberate attention. Thank you for your time and consideration Sincerely, Grace Branche Date: 3/23/2026 3:57:13 PM From: "Concerned AnaheimResidents" "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Ballus" To: RBalius@anaheim.net, "Natalie Rubaleava" NRubaleava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurd" NKurt c*anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" K"Aaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Public Cotrrnent" publiccomnent@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Request for Clarification on Appeal Issues — Festival Project (DEN'2023-00043) You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Dear Mayor and Council Members, Ahead ofthe March 24 meting, I am writing to request clarification on several significant issues raised in the Request for Rehearing and supporting nuterials. These questions reflect concerns already raised on the record by residents and outlined in detail in the appeal Given their direct impact on public safety and procedural integrity, it is important that they are clearly addressed prior to any final decision. 1. VWdfire Evacuation & CEQA How did the City deternvne that it had sufficient inforrmtion to approve the project while a comprehensive wildfire evacuation study — addressing the sarrie conditions was still underway9 What analysis demonstrates that a project -level evacuation review adequately accounts for system -wide evacuation capacity? How were real -world conditions, including existing bottlenecks and congestion, incorporated into the evaluation of evacuation feasibility*? 2. Consideration of Labor Negotiations • Can the Council clarify whether the existence or timing of any labor agreements was considered fornally or inforrm" the decision to approve the project? • Would the project have been approved under the sane conditions ifno such agreement had been reached? • How does the City ensure that discretionary land -use decisions remain based solely on appropriate planning considerations? 3. Fair Hearing & Due Process • Why was the fomral public hearing not reopened after January 13, despite continued deliberations and the introduction of new developments? • How does the City distinguish general public corrrmrnt from formal hearing testimony in terms of its role in the administrative record? • What opportunity did the public have to fommally respond to developments that occurred after the hearing was closed? 4. Completeness of the Record & Public Access • Where can the public find complete and up-to-date docununtation reflecting the full deliberation process, including developments that occurred after the hearing was closed? • How does the City ensure that the administrative record reflects all relevant information considered in its decision -nuking? • When key public records and meeting documentation are delayed or incomplete, how is the public expected to maningf* engage with and understand the process? 5. Alignment Between the Appeal and the City's Response The Request for Rehearing provided detailed, issue -specific analysis, including factual context around evacuation conditions, roadway constraints, and known bottlenecks affecting real -world traffic flow. In contrast, the City's response appears to address several ofthese issues at a rriore geneialiaed level The appeal raised concerns about how real -world evacuation conditions —such as existing bottlenecks, roadway linutations, and congestion patterns affect evacuation leasrbility, while the City's response appears to rely on broader cone hisions without clearly demonstrating how those specific conditions were evaluated. • The appeal identified ongoing developments and evolving conditions, including active studies and post -hearing changes, while the City's response does not clearly indicate how those factors were incorporated into the final decision. • The appeal raised process -level concerns about tirrkig, participation, and the completeness of the record, while the City's response appears to focus on procedural sufficiency without directly addressing whether the process allowed for meaningfiil engagern nt with new information These distinctions are important, as they go to whether the substance and level of detail in the appeal were fiilly considered. • Can the Council identify where in the adnvnistrative record the specific, detailed concerns raised in the appeal are directly addressed, rather than smynarized at a broader level? • How did the City deterime that its response My engaged with the depth and specificity of the issues raised particularly those involving real -world conditions and infrastructure constraints? Given the level of detail provided in the Request for Rehearing, can the Council explain how the materials were reviewed, what criteria were used to deternine that the issues raised did not warrant further consideration, and where in the record the public can see how that reviewwas conducted and how specific concerns were evaluated? Given the level of detail provided in the appeal, ensuring that each issue is directly and specifically addressed would help clarify how the City deterniiied that no further reviewwas warranted. Supporting Images — Real -World Conditions Attached images reflect observed, real -world conditions in and around the project site, including • Parking demand at or near capacity during typical peak hours • Congestion along primary access and evacuation routes • Bottlenecks and constrained traffic flow at key intersections These conditions are directly relevant to the evaluation of evacuation feasibility, infrastructure capacity, and traffic impacts discussed above. Image 1— Wide Parking Conditions Wide view of parking derrranl at the project site during typical peak conditions, illustrating sustained high utilization across the lot. Image 2 — Paining at Capacity Festival shopping center parking conditions during peak evening hours (approx 720 PM), showing near full capacity. Image 3 — Traffic Congestion Observed congestion along pror ary access and evacuation routes (Weir Canyon Rd heading toward 91 fwy), showing limited vehicle throughput during peak hours. Image 4 — Intersection Constraint hitersection congestion despite active signal (On Weir Canyon & Monte Vista Rd), illustrating constrained traffic flow and delayed clearing. Closing Many of these questions still lack clear, documented answers. Ifthese issues have already been addressed, I would appreciate being directed to where in the record those responses can be found. Addressing these questions prior to any final vote would help ensure that the Council's decision reflects a complete, transparent, and fully infonred understanding of both the impacts and the concerns raised by the conimi ty. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Shelly Robbins Date: 3/23/2026 5:18:44 PM Frog "TnnOlaerts" "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Public Cormnent" To: pubGcconxnent@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaza anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Reconsider Festival Center Decision Attachment: Request for Rehearing Rebuttal March 24.2026.pdf, [You don't often get email from -. Learn why this is important at httnsJ/aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderlden fication ] 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. Hello, I am writing to you with the ask that you reconsider the previous conclusions reached regarding the festival center proposal. This I am requesting a Request for Rehearing. I believe there are resident concerns, aspects of the process, and flawed assumptions which substitute this request. Please see the attached for further details. Pretend like you and your family live in this impacted area. I think if this were your family and your house you would see that the risks are real and the proposal should be denied. Thank you Tim Olacrts Sent from my iPhone Formal Rebuttal Request for Rehearing Meeting on March 24, 2026 Anaheim Hills Festival Project DEV2023-00043 Prepared Submission Page 1 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #1: Failure to Consider Material Wildfire Evacuation Information I. The City's Response Frames the Issue Too Narrowly The City argues that the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) properly evaluated wildfire evacuation conditions based on the information available at the time of the Notice of Preparation (NOP), and that it was not obligated to delay approval until completion of the Citywide Wildfire Evacuation Plan. That framing misses the point. While CEQA analysis is typically based on information available during environmental review, that does not allow the City to ignore relevant information that is actively being developed —especially when it directly relates to the impacts at issue. The question here isn't whether the City had to wait indefinitely, but whether it moved forward despite knowing that critical evacuation data was in progress and unfinished. II. The City Itself Recognized Gaps in Existing Evacuation Analysis The City chose to initiate a comprehensive wildfire evacuation study, secured funding for it, and began work before approving the Project. That decision matters. It shows the City understood that current information about evacuation conditions —particularly in Anaheim Hills —was not complete. Otherwise, there would be no need for the study. This creates a clear inconsistency: the City acknowledged the need for deeper analysis, yet approved a project that will directly affect evacuation conditions before that analysis was finished or reviewed. III. The Project Directly Affects What the Study Is Evaluating The Festival Project increases residential density, adds traffic, and relies on the same evacuation routes currently under study. These are not tangential issues —they go to the heart of what the Wildfire Evacuation Plan is supposed to evaluate: whether residents can safely evacuate during a wildfire. Approving a project that changes those conditions while the City is still trying to understand them raises a basic concern: the decision may have been made without a full picture of the risks. IV. A Project -Level Study Is Not a Substitute for System -Wide Analysis The City points to a project -specific evacuation analysis and notes that it was peer -reviewed. Page 2 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 That may be true, but it doesn't resolve the issue. Project -level studies operate within a defined scope and set of assumptions. They are not designed to evaluate broader, system -wide evacuation capacity. The City's own wildfire plan, on the other hand, is intended to do exactly that —using more comprehensive data and a wider lens. Moving forward without that broader analysis risks relying on a narrower and potentially incomplete understanding of evacuation conditions. V. CEQA Requires Agencies to Use the Best Information Reasonably Available CEQA does not require agencies to wait forever for future studies. But it also does not allow them to disregard material information that is actively being developed and directly relevant. Here, the City knew: A comprehensive evacuation study was underway The study addressed the same conditions affected by the Project The results had not yet been completed or reviewed Under those circumstances, it is fair to question whether the City relied on the most complete and reliable information available before approving the Project. VI. Calling the Ongoing Study "Speculative" Doesn't Hold Up The City characterizes the evacuation plan as speculative because it is not finalized. But this is not a hypothetical study —it is funded, underway, and specifically designed to address evacuation risks in areas like Anaheim Hills. Its completion is expected, not uncertain. Dismissing it as speculative minimizes its significance. In reality, it is a concrete effort to answer the exact questions raised by this Project. VII. Proceeding Without This Information Raises Serious Concerns A prejudicial abuse of discretion can occur when an agency fails to follow required procedures or makes a decision unsupported by substantial evidence. By approving the Project while acknowledging that key evacuation analysis was still incomplete —and without incorporating those forthcoming findings —the City risks having made a decision without fully informing itself. That undermines confidence in the environmental review process and warrants reconsideration. Page 3 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Vill. Conclusion At its core, this issue is about timing and information. The City moved forward with approval while simultaneously working to better understand the very evacuation conditions affected by the Project. That disconnect raises legitimate concerns about whether the decision was based on a complete and accurate understanding of wildfire risk. For that reason, a rehearing is appropriate to ensure the Project is evaluated using the most complete and reliable information available. Page 4 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #2: Consideration of Labor Negotiations in Project Approval I. The City Frames the Issue Too Narrowly The City's response focuses on the claim that union labor was not formally required as part of the Development Agreement. That framing does not address the actual concern raised in the request for rehearing. The issue is not whether a written condition appears in the agreement. The question is whether approval of the project was, in practice, influenced —directly or indirectly —by the status or outcome of private labor negotiations. A public agency cannot avoid scrutiny simply because a condition was not reduced to writing if the record suggests it played a role in the decision -making process. II. Federal Law Prohibits Government Interference in Labor Decisions Federal labor law draws a clear line. Under doctrines such as Machinists preemption, local governments are prohibited from inserting themselves into areas that Congress intended to leave to the free play of economic forces. Decisions about whether to use union or non -union labor —and the terms of those agreements —fall squarely within that protected space. This limitation applies not only to explicit mandates, but also to subtler forms of influence, including pressure tied to discretionary approvals. III. The Relevant Inquiry Is What Occurred in Practice What matters is not just what was written, but what actually occurred. The administrative record raises legitimate concerns on that front. A councilmember publicly connected their support for the project to the developer's engagement with organized labor. Discussions regarding labor agreements took place alongside deliberations over project approval. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding with a union was finalized during the same timeframe that the Council was considering its decision. Taken together, these facts raise a central question: was the project approved based solely on traditional land -use considerations, or did the outcome of private labor negotiations play a role? Page 5 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 IV. The Absence of a Written Condition Does Not Resolve the Issue The City relies on the absence of a formal requirement in the Development Agreement. However, the law does not turn on whether a condition is written down. A decision may be improperly influenced even when the relevant factor is informal, implied, or understood. If a decision -maker signals that their vote is contingent on a labor agreement, and that agreement is then reached prior to final approval, it is reasonable to question whether the approval was based solely on permissible considerations. V. The City's Response Leaves Critical Questions Unanswered The City's response does not meaningfully address key issues, including: • Whether councilmembers relied on the existence of a labor agreement in casting their votes • Whether the project would have been approved absent such an agreement How the timing of the Memorandum of Understanding factored into the decision These are not peripheral concerns —they go directly to whether the process complied with governing law. VI. Applicable Legal Standard Under Code of Civil Procedure section 1094.5, a decision constitutes a prejudicial abuse of discretion if it is based on improper considerations or if the agency fails to proceed in the manner required by law. If project approval was influenced by labor negotiations that fall within an area preempted by federal law, that standard may be satisfied. VII. Conclusion This issue warrants further examination. A rehearing is both appropriate and necessary to ensure that the City's decision was grounded exclusively in legitimate land -use considerations and free from impermissible influences. Because the City's response does not fully address these concerns, denying rehearing would leave a significant legal issue unresolved. The request should therefore be granted. Page 6 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #6: Denial of a Fair Hearing I. The City Treats Public Comment as a Substitute for a Formal Hearing The City's response suggests that a fair hearing occurred because the public was allowed to speak at later meetings and submit written comments. But that misses the point. Those are not the same thing as a formal public hearing, and they shouldn't be treated as interchangeable. A formal hearing is where evidence is presented, testimony is structured, and the official record is built. It allows for clarification, follow-up, and meaningful engagement with the issues that actually matter to the decision. General public comment is different. It's more limited, less structured, and doesn't provide the same opportunity to engage with the substance of what's being decided. Relying on general comment as a substitute for reopening the hearing is not adequate. II. The City Continued Deliberating After Closing the Hearing The public hearing was closed on January 13, 2026. But the decision -making process didn't stop there. The City Council continued discussing the project over multiple meetings, considered new developments —including the status of a labor agreement —and ultimately made its final decision on March 3, 2026. In other words, the process was still active and evolving after the hearing was closed. When that happens —when new information and ongoing deliberation continue after a hearing ends — basic fairness requires reopening the hearing so the public can respond within the proper framework. That didn't happen here. Instead, the hearing stayed closed, and the public was limited to general comment, even as important developments continued to unfold. III. Allowing Public Comment Did Not Fix the Problem The City points to the number of participants-111 speakers and 522 emailsas evidence that the public had an opportunity to be heard. But this isn't about volume. It's about whether the process itself was fair. Page 7 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 The key question is whether the public had a meaningful opportunity to participate at the right time and in the right setting. General comment doesn't allow people to respond to new developments in a structured way. It doesn't provide an opportunity to formally rebut new information. And it doesn't ensure that what's said is treated as part of the official evidentiary record in the same way as hearing testimony. So while people were able to speak, their ability to meaningfully influence the outcome was limited. IV. The Process Was Not Evenly Balanced There was also a clear imbalance in how the process unfolded. During the deliberation period, the applicant was able to continue engaging with the City, and developments related to the project —including the labor agreement —continued to take shape. Meanwhile, the public had no comparable opportunity to respond within the formal hearing process. That creates a situation where one side can continue shaping the outcome, while the other is restricted to a less effective channel. That kind of imbalance raises serious concerns about fairness. V. The Timing of the Decision Shows Prejudice The City argues that no prejudice has been shown. But prejudice exists when a procedural flaw prevents meaningful participation, and the decision is made after that flaw occurs. That's exactly what happened here. Deliberations continued for weeks after the hearing was closed. Relevant developments occurred during that time. And the final vote took place without ever reopening the hearing. Under those circumstances, it's not necessary to prove the outcome would have changed only that the public was denied a fair chance to influence it. That standard is clearly met. VI. The City Did Not Follow Required Procedures A fair hearing isn't just about allowing comments. It requires a proper process. That includes a structured forum, an opportunity to respond to new developments, and a decision based on a complete and fairly developed record. Page 8 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 By closing the hearing too early and refusing to reopen it as the situation evolved, the City failed to follow that process. This amounts to a prejudicial abuse of discretion under Code of Civil Procedure § 1094.5. VII. Conclusion The core issue remains unaddressed: the hearing was closed while the decision -making process was still ongoing. Allowing general public comment did not provide an equivalent or legally sufficient opportunity for participation. Because the public was denied a meaningful chance to engage at a critical stage, the integrity of the process is in question. For these reasons, the Request for Rehearing should be granted. Page 9 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Date: 3/23/2026 6:27:56 PM From "Grace McGee" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" To: NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet Cc: "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please do not approve Festival center project Warning: This emailoriginated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Hello Council, Since you KNOW there is a major evacuation bottleneck in East Anaheim Hills, so rruch so that you ordered a study ofthe evacuation area (which has NOT been conpleted), the ONLYresponsible vote you can make is to NOT approve the Festival apartment project. This project needs a con-plete review & , traffic study, and rehearing. Voting yes means you are KNOWfNGLY endangering thousands ofyour citizens. Your top responsibility is to first `do no harm' to your citizens. Vote NO. Thank you, Grace McGee Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/23/2026 7:29:54 PM From: "Anita Yacoub" "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" To: AAitken@anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" ICVIaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheim.net, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaz@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Request for Reconsideration of Festival Project You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. City ofAnaheim Mayor and Members of the City Council Mayor Aitken and Members of the City Council, I respectfully submit this follow-up correspondence for inclusion in the admmtistrative record regarding Development Application No. 2023-00043 and Final Emaronnental Impact Report (FELR) No. 358. This letter is intended to: Reiterate and incorporate all prior objections and concerns submitted in my February 3, March 3, and March 5, 2026 letters Address the lack of substantive response to those communications Introduce new, material information regarding the City's incomplete wildfire evacuation study Request reconsideration or delay of final actions pending full and consistent safety analysis I. Lack of Response and Incomplete Administrative Record To date, I have not received a response to any of rrry letters addressing the detailed public health, wildfire evacuation, emergency response, and Safety Elenront concerns raised in prior correspondence. Given the technical, legal, and life -safety nature of these issues, the absence of formal responses raises concern as to whether: These issues have been (ally evaluated The adnmtistrative record adequately reflects them Required findings are supported by substantial evidence II. Professional and Public Health Perspective As a Registered Nurse (RN) and Public Health Nurse (PHN) with emergency department and critical care experience, my concerns are grounded in: Emergency response operations Hospital surge capacity Disaster preparedness Population level risk assessment Wildfire evacuation is not theoretical�—it is a predictable, recurring public health emergency in Anaheim I a. III. Historical Wildfire Evidence and Known System Failures Anaheim Hills has experienced nultiple significant wildfire events: 1982 Gypsum Carryon Fire 1993 Eastern AnaheimHills Fire 2008 Freeway Complex Fire 2017 Canyon Fire 2 These events revealed consistent and documented vulnerabilities: Limited evacuation routes Congestion along Santa Ana Canyon Road Evacuation bottlenecks Delayed enwrgencyresponse access Similtaneous ingress/egress conflicts These are recurring structural conditions —not hypothetical scenarios. IV. Fundamental Change in Risk Profile — Residential vs. Commercial Use 'the project replaces intermittent contnercial use with 447 residential units, introducing. A permanent 24-hour population Sleeping residents during nighttime emergencies Children, elderly, and medically fragile individuals Mobility -limited residents requiring assistance Oxygen -dependent and chronic illness populations Unlike a theater, residential use creates: Continuous evacuation demand Increased EMS utilization Greater reliance on emergency systems This is a material and irreversible change in risk conditions. V. Emergency Medical and Healthcare System Impacts From a clinical operations perspective: During wildfire events: EMS response times increase Ambulance access is delayed Hospitals experience surge conditions Emergency departmar is may go on diversion Shelters must support medically vulnerable populations Wildfire smoke exposure leads to: Asthma exacerbations COPD decompensation Increased cardiac events Pediatric respiratory distress Anxiety and panic -related emergencies These are evidence -based public health impacts that scale with population density. VI. Evacuation Modeling Limitations The FEIR acknowledges: Increased evacuation times Significant unavoidable impacts Reliance on a Statement of Overriding Considerations However, evacuation models often fail to reflect real -world conditions: Panic behavior Disabled vehicles blocking lanes Smoke -reduced visibility Power outages Nighttine evacuations Smi:iltaneous multi -neighborhood evacuation Evacuation &Are is nonlinear —once capacity is exceeded, congestion escalates rapidly. VII. NEW MATERIAL, ISSUE— Missing Wildfire Evacuation Study A critical issue now requires inrriediate attention The City's Own Wildfire Evacuation Study Has Not Been Completed Approved: March 2025 Cost: $180,000 Expected completion: —9 months Status (March 2026): Not delivered Yet: The Festival Project was approved without it The project directly depends on evacuation safety analysis The study was intended to answer the very risks under consideration VIII. Inconsistency in Decision- The admir»strative record indicates: Evacuation conditions require further study Yet the approval implies: Sufficient wdomnation already exists These positions are internally inconsistent and materially significant. IX Potential Conflict of Interest The City's evacuation study contractor: Dudek The developer's evacuation consul=: Dudek This raises legitimate concerns: Independence ofanalysis Objectivity of conclusions Public confidence in findings Even the appearance of conflict is problematic m a He -safety context. X Timing and hrtegrity of the Study Approvinng the project prior to study completion: Alters baseline conditions Risks invalidating study conclusions Undermines the purpose of the study This creates a circular and compromised analytical francwork. XI. General Plan Safety Element and Legal Consistency Under California law: Gov. Code §65302(g): Safety Element mist address wildfire and evacuation Gov. Code §65300.5: Internal consistency required Key Safety Element principles: Mini nize wildfire exposure Ensure evacuation capacity Maintain emergency access Avoid intensification without infrastructure support Parcel -level compliance t system -level safety The City mist demonstrate how this project remains consistent with these policies. MI. CEQA and Statement of Overriding Considerations Under CEQA: Significant impacts require substantial evidence Overriding considerations mast be supported Here, the City overrides: Increased evacuation tires Significant unavoidable inEacts Without the City's own evacuation study, the evidentiary basis is incomplete. X'III. Cumrlative Risk and h&structure Timing h*astnucture improverents e?dernd to fiture years (e.g., 2029) Risk begins itnrediately upon occupancy Cumrlative developrent: Increrentally increases evacuation demaxl Pushes system toward threshold failure Anaheim Halls may be approaching that threshold. XIV. Legal, Fiscal, and Ethical hriplications Potential consequences include: CEQA litigation Challenges under Housing Accountability Act Taxpayer-fi ided legal defeme Long term infrastructure strain If evacuation failure results in harm Consequences extend beyond legal compliance Ethical responsibility becomes paramount XV. Request for Council Action In light of all prior and newly presented information, I respectfully request that the City Council 1. Delay Final Approval Actions Until the Wildfire Evacuation Study is completed and released 2. htegrate Study Findings Into any final decision -making 3. Provide Formal Written Response Addressing: Evacuation capacity Safety Elemrent consistency Role of incomplete study 4. Evaluate Rehearing / Reconsideration Based on: New material information Incomplete record Potential inconsistencies XVI. Closing This is not opposition to housing. It is a request that decisions involving life safety be made with complete, consistent, and transparent analysis. Approving high density residential developrent in a wildfire -prone hillside comnnrty without the City's own evacuation study is not consistent with Public health principles Eergenncy preparedness standards Sound planning practice I respectfuly urge the Council to take a r easured, evidence -based approach before proceeding further. Thank you for your consideration, Anita Yacoub, DVM Anaheim HiHs resident Date: 3/23/2026 8:54:14 PM From: if Puskas" To: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Request for Rehearing Rebuttal March 24.2026 Attachment: Request for Rehearing Rebuttal March 24.2026.pdf; You don't often get ermR from Learn why this is miportant 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. cityclerk@anahei Formal Rebuttal Request for Rehearing Meeting on March 24, 2026 Anaheim Hills Festival Project DEV2023-00043 Prepared Submission Page 1 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #1: Failure to Consider Material Wildfire Evacuation Information I. The City's Response Frames the Issue Too Narrowly The City argues that the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) properly evaluated wildfire evacuation conditions based on the information available at the time of the Notice of Preparation (NOP), and that it was not obligated to delay approval until completion of the Citywide Wildfire Evacuation Plan. That framing misses the point. While CEQA analysis is typically based on information available during environmental review, that does not allow the City to ignore relevant information that is actively being developed —especially when it directly relates to the impacts at issue. The question here isn't whether the City had to wait indefinitely, but whether it moved forward despite knowing that critical evacuation data was in progress and unfinished. II. The City Itself Recognized Gaps in Existing Evacuation Analysis The City chose to initiate a comprehensive wildfire evacuation study, secured funding for it, and began work before approving the Project. That decision matters. It shows the City understood that current information about evacuation conditions —particularly in Anaheim Hills —was not complete. Otherwise, there would be no need for the study. This creates a clear inconsistency: the City acknowledged the need for deeper analysis, yet approved a project that will directly affect evacuation conditions before that analysis was finished or reviewed. III. The Project Directly Affects What the Study Is Evaluating The Festival Project increases residential density, adds traffic, and relies on the same evacuation routes currently under study. These are not tangential issues —they go to the heart of what the Wildfire Evacuation Plan is supposed to evaluate: whether residents can safely evacuate during a wildfire. Approving a project that changes those conditions while the City is still trying to understand them raises a basic concern: the decision may have been made without a full picture of the risks. IV. A Project -Level Study Is Not a Substitute for System -Wide Analysis The City points to a project -specific evacuation analysis and notes that it was peer -reviewed. Page 2 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 That may be true, but it doesn't resolve the issue. Project -level studies operate within a defined scope and set of assumptions. They are not designed to evaluate broader, system -wide evacuation capacity. The City's own wildfire plan, on the other hand, is intended to do exactly that —using more comprehensive data and a wider lens. Moving forward without that broader analysis risks relying on a narrower and potentially incomplete understanding of evacuation conditions. V. CEQA Requires Agencies to Use the Best Information Reasonably Available CEQA does not require agencies to wait forever for future studies. But it also does not allow them to disregard material information that is actively being developed and directly relevant. Here, the City knew: A comprehensive evacuation study was underway The study addressed the same conditions affected by the Project The results had not yet been completed or reviewed Under those circumstances, it is fair to question whether the City relied on the most complete and reliable information available before approving the Project. VI. Calling the Ongoing Study "Speculative" Doesn't Hold Up The City characterizes the evacuation plan as speculative because it is not finalized. But this is not a hypothetical study —it is funded, underway, and specifically designed to address evacuation risks in areas like Anaheim Hills. Its completion is expected, not uncertain. Dismissing it as speculative minimizes its significance. In reality, it is a concrete effort to answer the exact questions raised by this Project. VII. Proceeding Without This Information Raises Serious Concerns A prejudicial abuse of discretion can occur when an agency fails to follow required procedures or makes a decision unsupported by substantial evidence. By approving the Project while acknowledging that key evacuation analysis was still incomplete —and without incorporating those forthcoming findings —the City risks having made a decision without fully informing itself. That undermines confidence in the environmental review process and warrants reconsideration. Page 3 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Vill. Conclusion At its core, this issue is about timing and information. The City moved forward with approval while simultaneously working to better understand the very evacuation conditions affected by the Project. That disconnect raises legitimate concerns about whether the decision was based on a complete and accurate understanding of wildfire risk. For that reason, a rehearing is appropriate to ensure the Project is evaluated using the most complete and reliable information available. Page 4 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #2: Consideration of Labor Negotiations in Project Approval I. The City Frames the Issue Too Narrowly The City's response focuses on the claim that union labor was not formally required as part of the Development Agreement. That framing does not address the actual concern raised in the request for rehearing. The issue is not whether a written condition appears in the agreement. The question is whether approval of the project was, in practice, influenced —directly or indirectly —by the status or outcome of private labor negotiations. A public agency cannot avoid scrutiny simply because a condition was not reduced to writing if the record suggests it played a role in the decision -making process. II. Federal Law Prohibits Government Interference in Labor Decisions Federal labor law draws a clear line. Under doctrines such as Machinists preemption, local governments are prohibited from inserting themselves into areas that Congress intended to leave to the free play of economic forces. Decisions about whether to use union or non -union labor —and the terms of those agreements —fall squarely within that protected space. This limitation applies not only to explicit mandates, but also to subtler forms of influence, including pressure tied to discretionary approvals. III. The Relevant Inquiry Is What Occurred in Practice What matters is not just what was written, but what actually occurred. The administrative record raises legitimate concerns on that front. A councilmember publicly connected their support for the project to the developer's engagement with organized labor. Discussions regarding labor agreements took place alongside deliberations over project approval. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding with a union was finalized during the same timeframe that the Council was considering its decision. Taken together, these facts raise a central question: was the project approved based solely on traditional land -use considerations, or did the outcome of private labor negotiations play a role? Page 5 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 IV. The Absence of a Written Condition Does Not Resolve the Issue The City relies on the absence of a formal requirement in the Development Agreement. However, the law does not turn on whether a condition is written down. A decision may be improperly influenced even when the relevant factor is informal, implied, or understood. If a decision -maker signals that their vote is contingent on a labor agreement, and that agreement is then reached prior to final approval, it is reasonable to question whether the approval was based solely on permissible considerations. V. The City's Response Leaves Critical Questions Unanswered The City's response does not meaningfully address key issues, including: • Whether councilmembers relied on the existence of a labor agreement in casting their votes • Whether the project would have been approved absent such an agreement How the timing of the Memorandum of Understanding factored into the decision These are not peripheral concerns —they go directly to whether the process complied with governing law. VI. Applicable Legal Standard Under Code of Civil Procedure section 1094.5, a decision constitutes a prejudicial abuse of discretion if it is based on improper considerations or if the agency fails to proceed in the manner required by law. If project approval was influenced by labor negotiations that fall within an area preempted by federal law, that standard may be satisfied. VII. Conclusion This issue warrants further examination. A rehearing is both appropriate and necessary to ensure that the City's decision was grounded exclusively in legitimate land -use considerations and free from impermissible influences. Because the City's response does not fully address these concerns, denying rehearing would leave a significant legal issue unresolved. The request should therefore be granted. Page 6 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Issue #6: Denial of a Fair Hearing I. The City Treats Public Comment as a Substitute for a Formal Hearing The City's response suggests that a fair hearing occurred because the public was allowed to speak at later meetings and submit written comments. But that misses the point. Those are not the same thing as a formal public hearing, and they shouldn't be treated as interchangeable. A formal hearing is where evidence is presented, testimony is structured, and the official record is built. It allows for clarification, follow-up, and meaningful engagement with the issues that actually matter to the decision. General public comment is different. It's more limited, less structured, and doesn't provide the same opportunity to engage with the substance of what's being decided. Relying on general comment as a substitute for reopening the hearing is not adequate. II. The City Continued Deliberating After Closing the Hearing The public hearing was closed on January 13, 2026. But the decision -making process didn't stop there. The City Council continued discussing the project over multiple meetings, considered new developments —including the status of a labor agreement —and ultimately made its final decision on March 3, 2026. In other words, the process was still active and evolving after the hearing was closed. When that happens —when new information and ongoing deliberation continue after a hearing ends — basic fairness requires reopening the hearing so the public can respond within the proper framework. That didn't happen here. Instead, the hearing stayed closed, and the public was limited to general comment, even as important developments continued to unfold. III. Allowing Public Comment Did Not Fix the Problem The City points to the number of participants-111 speakers and 522 emailsas evidence that the public had an opportunity to be heard. But this isn't about volume. It's about whether the process itself was fair. Page 7 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 The key question is whether the public had a meaningful opportunity to participate at the right time and in the right setting. General comment doesn't allow people to respond to new developments in a structured way. It doesn't provide an opportunity to formally rebut new information. And it doesn't ensure that what's said is treated as part of the official evidentiary record in the same way as hearing testimony. So while people were able to speak, their ability to meaningfully influence the outcome was limited. IV. The Process Was Not Evenly Balanced There was also a clear imbalance in how the process unfolded. During the deliberation period, the applicant was able to continue engaging with the City, and developments related to the project —including the labor agreement —continued to take shape. Meanwhile, the public had no comparable opportunity to respond within the formal hearing process. That creates a situation where one side can continue shaping the outcome, while the other is restricted to a less effective channel. That kind of imbalance raises serious concerns about fairness. V. The Timing of the Decision Shows Prejudice The City argues that no prejudice has been shown. But prejudice exists when a procedural flaw prevents meaningful participation, and the decision is made after that flaw occurs. That's exactly what happened here. Deliberations continued for weeks after the hearing was closed. Relevant developments occurred during that time. And the final vote took place without ever reopening the hearing. Under those circumstances, it's not necessary to prove the outcome would have changed only that the public was denied a fair chance to influence it. That standard is clearly met. VI. The City Did Not Follow Required Procedures A fair hearing isn't just about allowing comments. It requires a proper process. That includes a structured forum, an opportunity to respond to new developments, and a decision based on a complete and fairly developed record. Page 8 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 By closing the hearing too early and refusing to reopen it as the situation evolved, the City failed to follow that process. This amounts to a prejudicial abuse of discretion under Code of Civil Procedure § 1094.5. VII. Conclusion The core issue remains unaddressed: the hearing was closed while the decision -making process was still ongoing. Allowing general public comment did not provide an equivalent or legally sufficient opportunity for participation. Because the public was denied a meaningful chance to engage at a critical stage, the integrity of the process is in question. For these reasons, the Request for Rehearing should be granted. Page 9 of 9 Request for Rehearing Rebuttal: March 24, 2026 Date: 3/22/202610:45:12 PM From 'Brenda Robbins" To: "Public Comment" publicconunent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim INs Festival Project 2026 Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. March 22, 2026 ATTN: Public Corrunent 1 have reviewed the City of Anaheim's City Council Agenda for March 24, 2026. In your Agenda I see you plan on issuing a Denial of the Request for Rehearing on the Approval of the Festival Project. In it I also note a Request for Rehearing that was submitted to the City on March 10, 2026. Why would the City have listed this as an automatic "DENIAL" on the Agenda without having a public discussion? What about the 800-page Appeal? This project was not fully evaluated and should not have been approved in the fast place without a full CEQA being finalized. This project, if built, will continue to severely under evaluate the estimates you believe are adequate for fire evacuation. The City has a duty to their citizen's and the State of California to uphold and follow the law and pursue that course before approving ANYproject. The City should not be approving and signing a project contract with any Developer BEFOREthey have even met with their citizen's that is set for public discussion prior to a vote. The Labor Union contract was discus sed and signed IN PRIVATE prior to the 3-3-2026 Project vote! You mis lead the citizens of the City of Anaheim on 3-3-2026 into thinking their representatives were going to provide themwith a fair and honest evaluation prior to your voting on this project's feasibility. I do not have a problemwith residential building in Anaheim Hills. BUT I DO FEEL THE CITIZENS OF ANAHEIM HILLS DESERVE RESPONSIBLE BUILDS. We do not have the infrastructure to handle 1000 cars! Anaheim Hills was built as a "Master Planned Co rnunity". When the nerd fire comes, some ofus only have one, maybe 2 ways out, to get out! ONE OF MYFAMILY S ONLY WAY OUT IS DIRECTLYTOWARDS THE FIRE'S PREDICTED ROUTE WITH A 1000 MORE PEOPLE!!! You are putting a 4 story, 447-unit multi -family apartment complexsite onto a "dot -size" piece of land that currently sits on conrnereial land. There is no residential apartments orhomes in this neighborhood comparable in size. The City needs to open their eyes and look at the surroundings and NOT JUST THE PIECE OF LAND!!! This effects EVERYONEis the area. We cannot breathe with the traffic as is. It is not just outside traffic but will soon develop DOUBLE THE INSIDE TRAFFIC! There are other places within east Anaheimthat are more appropriate that can acconnmdate this large type of structure. What about the vacant lots around La Palma Avenue and Imperial Highway? There is a long strip of land running fromhnperial Highway to Lakeview Avenue. What about both sides of the long-gone/torn down old Kaiser building (and the connecting abandoned parking lot directly across the street) on Lakeview Avenue?????? This is not right for our neighborhood! You will suffocate us ifthis gets built. Fast, I request you grant our request to reopen this Agenda item for the residents of the Hills to discuss our concerns regarding this project based on our Request for Rehearing. Answer those concerns. Second, I urge you to re -consider your previous approval of this build site and NOT APPROVE BUILDING on this site as presented by Shea Properties in building this monstrosity. Brenda Robbins 40+ year resident Date: 3/23/2026 8:49:13 AM From: "Public Comment" publiecommentCanaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken a�anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheim.net, "Ryan Balius" RBaliusCqanaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava a,anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] You don't often get email from Learnwhd-us is =ortant 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. Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council, I am writing in advance of the March 24 consideration of the rehearing for the Festival project in Anaheim Hills to reiterate and clarify my concerns regarding traffic and evacuation impacts. My concern is straightforward. I do not believe the traffic impact and evacuation analysis being relied upon adequately reflects current, real -world conditions in our area. The theater on the Festival site has not been in regular use for some time. Even when operational, it primarily drew patrons from within the surrounding community and did not represent a sustained, permanent increase in daily vehicle volume. In contrast, the current proposal introduces an ongoing and concentrated traffic load into a corridor that is already experiencing routine gridlock. We have liked in this area for approximately five years, and traffic conditions have deteriorated substantially even within that short period. Congestion is no longer occasional. It is daily. Any evaluation that assumes off-peak movement or theoretical flow rates does not align with lived experience on these roads. More importantly, emergency planning cannot assume convenient timing. A wildfire will not occur at an ideal hour. If evacuation coincides with rush hour congestion, the consequences would be severe. While I appreciate the City's efforts to improve preparedness since 2017, the proposed "Know Your Way" concept remains unproven under worst -case conditions. Neighbors who experienced the Canyon Fire have shared deeply concerning accounts of evacuation bottlenecks that exposed serious vulnerabilities. Before approving additional density in a high fire -risk area with known congestion constraints, I respectfully urge the Council to require a deeper, stress - tested analysis that evaluates evacuation capacity during peak traffic conditions rather than modeled averages. I would also respectfully ask for clarity regarding precedent. The SALT development proposal at Deer Canyon was rejected based in part on concerns about traffic impact and strain on infrastructure in this same general area. From a resident's perspective, the Festival proposal presents similar issues. To date, no one has clearly articulated how this project materially differs in a way that substantially changes the risk profile. If the Council's assessment has shifted, I believe residents deserve a clear explanation of why. Finally, I ask that you weigh the input of the residents you were elected to represent. Many of us in District 6 have raised consistent concerns about traffic congestion and evacuation safety. These concerns reflect daily lived experience and legitimate public safety considerations. As our District 6 representative and as Mayor, your leadership carries particular importance in ensuring those concerns are fully heard and meaningfully addressed before irreversible decisions are made. This is not about opposing development categorically. It is about ensuring that public safety, particularly evacuation feasibility under worst -case conditions, is evaluated with the highest level of rigor. With wildfire risk increasing year after year, this is an area where assumptions carry real consequences. Thank you for your time and consideration. Joe Branche Date: 3/23/202610:15:53 PM From: "Concerned AnaheimResidents"— To: "Public Comment" publiccorrurrent@amheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fuld: Request for Clarification on Appeal Issues —Festival Project (DE`'2023-00043) You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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 Concerned AnaheimResidents Date: Mon, Mar 23, 2026 at 3:57 PM Subject: Request for Clarification on Appeal Issues — Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) To: <aaitkenCc�analreimnet>, <cleonCc�,auaheimnet>, <rbalitrsnaear�alreimnet>I <nrubalcavananaheimnet>, <_ a>,anal�eimnet>, <kmaahsnanaheimnet>, <nneeks°anaheimnet>, <pubficconTncA&anaheirri, Cc: <ci vclerk&Analeimnet> Dear Mayor and Council Members, Ahead ofthe March 24 rreeting, I am writing to request clarification on several significant issues raised in the Request for Rehearing and supporting materials. These questions reflect concerns already raised on the record by residents and outlined in detail in the appeal Given their direct impact on public safety and procedml integrity, it is important that they are clearly addressed prior to any final decision. 1. Wildfire Evacuation & CEQA • How did the City detemiie that it had sufficient infornation to approve the project while a conprehensive wildfire evacuation study — addressing the sans conditions —vas still underway? • What analysis derrnnstrates that a project -level evacuation review adequately accounts for systemwide evacuation capacity? • How were real -world conditions, including existing bottlenecks and congestion, incorporated into the evaluation of evacuation feasibility? 2. Consideration of Labor Negotiations • Can the Council clarify whether the existence or tirrmng of any labor agreements was considered—fomally or infornally—in the decision to approve the project? • Would the project have been approved under the sarr a conditions if no such agreement had been reached? • How does the City ensure that discretionary land -use decisions remain based solely on appropriate planning considerations? 3. Fair Hearing & Due Process • Why was the fonual public hearing not reopened after January 13, despite continued deliberations and the introduction of new developments? • How does the City distinguish general public corrrnent from fomnal hearing testirnony in tems of its role in the administrative record? • What opportunity did the public have to formally respond to developments that occurred after the hearing was closed? 4. Completeness of the Record & Public Access • Where can the public find complete and up-to-date documentation reflecting the full deliberation process, including developments that occurred after the hearing was closed? • How does the City ensure that the adnmiistrative record reflects all relevant inforration considered in its decision raking? • When key public records and meting docurrientabon are delayed or incomplete, how is the public expected to neaningfiilly engage with and understand the process? 5. Alignment Betvwen the Appeal and the City's Response The Request for Rehearing provided detailed, issue -specific analysis, including factual context around evacuation conditions, roadway constraints, and known bottlenecks affecting real -world traffic flow. In contrast, the City s response appears to address several of these issues at a rmre generalized level The appeal raised concerns about how real -world evacuation conditions --such as existing bottlenecks, roadway limitations, and congestion patterns affect evacuation feasibility, while the City's response appears to rely on broader conclusions without clearly demonstrating how those specific conditions were evaluated. The appeal identified ongoing developments and evolving conditions, including active studies and post -hearing changes, while the City's response does not clearly indicate how those factors were incorporated into the final decision The appeal raised process -level concerns about timing, participation, and the completeness of the record, while the City's response appears to focus on procedural sufficiency without directly addressing whether the process allowed for m>eaningfiil engagement with new infortration These distinctions are important, as they go to whether the substance and level of detail in the appeal were fully considered. • Can the Council identify where in the adnvnistrative record the specific, detailed concerns raised in the appeal are directly addressed, rather than sunYnarized at a broader level? • How did the City determine that its response fully engaged with the depth and specificity of the issues raised —particularly those involving real -world conditions and infrastructure constraints? Given the level of detail provided in the Request for Rehearing, can the Council explain how the materials were reviewed, what criteria were used to deternine that the issues raised did not warrant further consideration, and where in the record the public can see how that reviewwas conducted and how specific concerns were evaluated? Given the level of detail provided in the appeal, ensuring that each issue is directly and specifically addressed would help clarify how the City deternined that no further reviewwas warranted. Supporting Images — Real -World Conditions Attached images reflect observed, real -world conditions in and around the project site, includnig. • Parking demand at or near capacity during typical peak howl • Congestion along primary access and evacuation routes • Bottlenecks and constrained traffic flow at key intersections These conditions are directly relevant to the evaluation of evacuation feasibility, infrastructure capacity, and traffic impacts discussed above. Image 1— Wide Parking Conditions Wide view ofparking demand at the project site dining typical peak conditions, illustrating sustained high utilization across the lot. Image 2 — Parting at Capacity Festival shopping center parking conditions during peak evening hour (approx 720 PM), showing near full capacity. Image 3 — Traffic Congestion Observed congestion along primary access and evacuation routes (Weir Canyon Rd heading toward 91 fwy), showing limited vehicle throughput during peak hours. Image 4 — Intersection Constraint Intersection congestion despite active signal (On Weir Canyon & Monte Vista Rd), illustrating constrained traffic flow and delayed clearing. Closing Many of these questions still lack clear, docurrented answers. Ifthese issues have already been addressed, I would appreciate being directed to where in the record those responses can be found. Addressing these questions prior to any final vote would help ensure that the Council's decision reflects a complete, transparent, and fully informed understanding of both the impacts and the concerns raised by the cornninnity. Thank you for your time and consideration Sincerely, Shelly Robbins Anaheim, CA 92808 Date: 3/24/202610:42:04 AM From "mrtha"— To: "Anaheim GovOutReach" anaheim@user govoutreach.com, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Public Continent" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Vote NO- Anaheim fills Festival Center Project (DA 2023-00043 / FEIR No. 358) You don't often get email fro Learnwhy this is important 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. Request for Reconsideration— Unresolved Public Safety. I am a concerned Anaheim Hill residence living in the area off Weir Canyon since it was developed in 1984 and have seen the impact. Given the technical, legal, and life -safety nature of these issues, this requires more evaluation and consideration of the risk to current and R"c residents. I Iistorical Wildfire Evidence and Known System Failures. Anaheim Hills bas experienced mrltiple significant wildfire events: • 1982 Gypsum Canyon Fire • 1993 Eastern Anaheim Hills Fire • 2008 Freeway Complex Fire • 2017 Canyon Fire 2 These events revealed consistent and documented vulnerabilities: • I rnited evacuation routes • Congestion along Santa Ana Canyon Road • Evacuation bottlenecks • Delayed emergency response access • Sinultaneous ingress/egress conflicts The project replaces intermittent conyriercial use with 447 residential units, introducing: • permanent 24-hour population • Sleeping residents during nighttnne emrgency Unlike a theater, residential use creates: • Continuous evacuation demand • Increased EMS utilization • Greater reliance on emergency systerrs Evacuation conditions require fiuther study!! I respectfirlly urge the Council to take a rreasured, evidence -based approach before proceeding further. Please STOP this development until The current residents are assured with evidence of safe evacuation plans! ! ! ! ! God Bless, Martha Vega Anaheim Hills Resident Date: 3/24/2026 3:29- From "Tannic Soto' "Public Comment" publiccormment@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Iron" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, To: "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcavaCaanaheimnet, "Norma C. Kuntz" NKmti(a)anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks (a,)anahe innnet Sul*ct: [EXTERNAL] Rehearing request regarding Festival Development Proposal You don't often get email from . Learn why this is mVortant Warning: Ibis email originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the seuder and are expecting the message. Dear Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and City Council Members, I write to rake a plea that you all reconsider the decision that was nude on March 3, 2026 approving the project at Anaheim Hills Festival Center and decide as a whole that the proposed Festival Center project development should not be allowed to be built due to public safety and evacuation concerns. In fight of what occurred in the catastrophic and devastatumg Pacific Palisades Ise I believe the only thing that prevented a similar fire occurring in Anaheim Hills is that there was not a shift in the words. Plain and simple ...... we were lucky last time. With the gridlock that happened the last time we had a fire in Anaheim HE ifyou add hundreds ofmore people and their cars to a simlar situation the time fiane for evacuating puts at risk lives significantly more especially ifwe were to experience winds sin flar to what happened in the Palisades. This area already has experienced fires which proved there is krited ingress and egress making evacuation a known problem At the March 3, 2026 City Council Meeting the Fire Chiefrade it clear that in order to prevent sparks from a fire traveling via wind and an event sirnnhar to the Pacific Palisades fire and other catastrophic fires experienced in Cafifomia in recent years happening here in AnaheiraHills that additional preventable measures needed to be taken in Anaheim H1. He said it would initially cost I to 2 million dollars to 4lemnent needed weed removal and in order to keep that up yearly it would be a yearly expense of 1 million dollars per year. This is something he said was needed for preventative measures. This is not something that is already going on That alone is reason enough to not allow the developftrent. I propose that for any future proposed devebpnents that the developer/builder be required to conhmburte a significant amount ofcapital towards needed safeguards. While I appreciate that the Phoning Department Representative indicated that they have net with Cal Trans and the County and have cone up with ways to nVgpte, and prevent gridlock in the event of a needed evacuation I just don't see where that is going to work given the current gridlock Anaheim Hills experiences on a daily bass during the work week and on most Saturdays. Allowing a major new development wither t a proven, effective evacuation plan places is residents at increased risk. The safety of the residents of Anaheim Hills must be paramount to allowing a new apartment development to be built. I ask that all ofyou all decry the approval oftbe Festival Center's proposed building ofaparhnents at this time. I ask that the owners oftbe property look beyond and consider building other services for the cotmnrity on that property. We don't need more housing up here. We could use more restaurants and services. We no longer have a theatre in Anaheim Hill since the Festival Theatre and Ci enn City theatres closed. We miss the theatres. Thank you for your service to our condrmrtity. Peace, Tanis Dunbar -Soto Date: 3/4/2026 3:43:55 AM From: "nanci shrager' "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurfz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake You don't often get eniiff fro Learn why this is importarrt 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. Dear Council Member, I amwriting to ask you to vote 'No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartnicit project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Sawa Ana Canyon Road is already at its licmt. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 aparhnents and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "corrgmn sense" test. The city own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 minutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who We here. If a bucket is already overflowing you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically adnutting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even rmre crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality of our streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out of the Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote 'No" on this project. Sincerely, Nanci Shrager Date: 3/4/2026 7:12:09 AM From: "g kim" %aitkenCanaheimnet.com" aaitkenCanaheimnet.com, "caleon@anaheimnet" caleon@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" To: NK a�anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheim.net, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Public Comment" publiccommentC:anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project (E1R No. 358) You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I am writing to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension of time to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2.Omission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter- city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of commuters from Yorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridor that is already a regional relief valve is a direct violation of the General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization of the Home Insurance Market With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20-30% this year, adding high - density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The "Statement of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. Developer convenience is being prioritized over the physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. Sincerely, Glen Kim Anaheim, CA 92808 Date: 3/4/2026 7:48:41 AM From: "g kim" - "caleon@anaheimnet" caleon@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" To: KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet "Public Corrrnent" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project (FIR No. You don't often get ermA fro am this is 'mipoctant 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. Reseeding with the mayor's correct email. Thank you, Glen On Mar 4, 2026, at 7:12 AM, g kim wrote: To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I am writing to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension of time to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2.Omission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of commuters from Yorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridor that is already a regional relief valve is a direct violation of the General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization of the Home Insurance Market With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20-30% this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The "Statement of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. Developer convenience is being prioritized over the physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. Sincerely, Glen Kim Anaheim, CA 92808 Date: 3/4/2026 7:40:44 AM From "Vishal Chheda" aattken@anaheunnet.com aartke anaheunnet.com caleon nahennnet caleo anaheunnet,"Norma C.Kurtz To: NKurtc@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimne4 "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBahus@anabeimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Public Com rnt" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project (EIR No. 358) You don't often get email fro am this is ' ortant 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. To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I am writing to fomrally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension oftinne to evacuate by approxiruately 24 n>inutes." In a wind -driven wildfwc in a Very High Fire Hmwd Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-nirutc delay is the differcl" between life and death Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely f vids a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fainnorrt Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands ofconin-tern fromYorba Linda and the Inland Enpire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridor that is already a regional relief valve is a direct violation of the General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization of the Hone Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our enabling insurance market. With prerrmns in 92807/92808 already surging by 20- 30%this year, adding higlydensityunits to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe inits. This project acts as a 'tipping point'for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing hones uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA hrconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The "Statement of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convemence over the physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th Sincerely, Vishal Chheda From Anaheim Hills Date: 3/4/2026 7:49:04 AM From: "VishalChheda"m "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "caleon@anaheimnet" caleon@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kiuti" To: NKiut2@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimne4 "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Public Comrent" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project (EiR No. You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I am writing to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to RR Appendix C (Responses to Written Cournerils), the City admits this project results ui a '�otertial extension of tune to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard SeverityZone (VIWHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to mange a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission ofRegionl'Sbadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is finndarnentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fainmort Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of commaaters from Yorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not docu r anted in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridor that is already a regional relief valve is a direct violation of the General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization ofthe Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our cr un>Uling insurance market. With premirnrns in 92807/92808 already surging by 20- 30% this year, adding highdensity units to a high -risk zone signals to tamers that the '!risk densty' bas exceeded safe firnits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing horns uninsurable and ursellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The 'Statement of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted k asble alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience over the physical and financial survival of your constituerts. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th Sincerely, Visbal Chheda From Anaheim Hills Date: 3/4/2026 8:06:45 AM From: "IFisham Sabeh" "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "caleon@anaheimnet" caleon@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kiuti" To: NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimne4 "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@amheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim I4ills Project (Eat No. 358) [You don't often get email fro MLearn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification Waring: 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. URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading ofFestival Anaheim Hills Project (EIRNo. 358) To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I amwriting to formally oppose the final adoption ofthe 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIRAppendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension oftime to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VIIFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands ofcommmters fromYorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridorthat is already a regional reliefvalve is a direct violation ofthe General Plan Safety Bement. 3. Economic Destabilization ofthe Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our crumbling insurance market. With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20-30% this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The "Statement ofOverriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alteratives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience overthe physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. Sincerely, F. Sabeh �naheim Hills Date: 3/4/2026 8:36:04 AM From: "KimCollell' "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "caaleon@anaheimnet" caaleon@anaheimnet, "Norma C. favV' To: NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [Eg TERNAL] URGENT: Legal and Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project. (EIR No. 35 [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at httns • /aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentitication ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I amwriting to formally oppose the final adoption ofthe 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIR Appendix (Responses to Written Conrnents), the City adrrits this project results in a "potential extension oftime to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VfIFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of cominrters fmmYorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridorthat is already a regional rehefvalve is a direct violation ofthe General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization ofthe Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our crumbling insurance market. With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20-30% this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe linits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of overriding Considerations The "Statement of0verriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle You are prioritizing developer convenience overthe physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th Sincerely, KitnCollell Anaheim, CA.92808 Living in the Anaheim hills since 1976 Sent fromrny iPhone Date: 3/4/2026 8:38:45 AM From "Anca Cocan" "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "caleon@anaheimnet" caleon@anaheimnet, "Nonina C. Muti" To: NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimne4 "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Public Corrrnent" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project (EIR No. 358) You don't often get email fro _NIMLeam why this is important 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. To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I am writing to foam ly oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comrrients), the City adnits this project results in a "potential extension of time to evacuate by approximately 24 rinutes." In a wirxl-driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VI IFHSZ), a 24-mite delay is the difference between life and death Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Orrission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volrn le The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is finidarnentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volrn w. Fairnnont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of cornai tern from Yorba Linda and the haland Ennpire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridor that is already a regional relief valve is a direct violation of the General Plan Safety Element. 3. Econornic Destabilization of the Horne Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our cnu-ibling insurance market. With prenmuns in 92807/92808 already surgng by 20- 30% this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density' has exceeded safe lirrits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The 'Statement of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas Lice the Platin m Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience over the physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th Sincerely, Arica Farcas Anaheim Ca.92808 Date: 3/4/2026 9:50:41 AM From To: "Public Comment" publiccormnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Project You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important 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 rmssage. Good n-Dn , My understanding is that the following important facts were not considered prior to the 3/3 festival apartnent project vote. - Inland Empire (IE) and Yorba Linda cornn ters use east Anaheim h0ls roads as "undocurmnted" shortcuts. Also 91 freeway from Lake View to Sawa Ana Canyon road. This was not factored into their assessment. - Impacts to already high insurance premiums and renewals due to the area being already labeled `high risk". We appreciate your concern m this matter. Sincerely, Kalpana Sent from AOL on Android Date: 3/4/2026 10:03: 11 AM Frog "John Hughes" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubaleava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at https://aka.ns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, i am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the stroke get closer, and literally not roving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/4/202611:03:43 AM From "ALBERT MURPIW To: "Public Continent" publiccomrnent(kanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim IMs Festival Project [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at h_pt s://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Waming: 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. Approval ofthis project is a major disappointment for Anaheim Hills residents. Having lived through four evacuations in the Hills and another near miss that unfortunately turned on Yorba Linda, I have personally seen the wind force and devastation created by brush fires. Uncontrollable winds at 75 mph, flames moving at 9 miles per minute, traffic congestion toward very, very limited egress points are and will continue to be the main issue. They were the main issue that defeated the Deer Canyon project but were basically ignored in this one - both projects are 1/2 mile apart, so why. Why won't insurance companies insure properties here - they seemto know why but small thinking Council members fromdistricts 14 don't. They choose revenue, profit, equality over safety. Given the wrong conditions, the Hills are a potential fire trap that may be mitigated by planning and organization, ormaybe they won't. Try explaining the plan to a 75mph wind. Good luck to us, we're going to need it. Al Murphy Anaheim Hills Sent frommy iPad Date: 3/4/2026 2:57:05 PM Frog "Karla Andrade" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nornia C. Kurtz" NKurb2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the stroke get closer, and literally not roving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is temfying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Karla Andrade Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/4/2026 4:35:00 PM Frog "john eun" _ "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" To: NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius*anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Public Conmrnt" publieconarnt@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" iGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim Hills Festival site: please vote NO [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at his://aka.rm/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] 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 amwriting to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension oftime to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission of Regional"Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of comrarters fromYorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridorthat is already a regional reliefvalve is a direct violation ofthe General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization ofthe Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our crumbling insurance market. With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20�30"/o this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of overriding Considerations The "Statement ofOvcniding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience overthe physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. Sincerely, John Eun �naheim Date: 3/4/2026 4:38:46 PM Frorn: "John Eun" To: "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurby anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" Cc: NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius*anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava(a anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Anaheim Ilills Festival site: please reconsider [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at ht_pt s://aka.ns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] 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 amwriting to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: > 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) > According to FIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Cormrrents), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension oftime to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VIVHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code * 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. > 2.Omission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume > The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of corn titers fromYorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridorthat is already a regional relicfvalve is a direct violation ofthe General Plan Safety Element. > 3. Economic Destabilization of the Home Insurance Market > The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our crumbling insurance market. With premiurrs in 92807/92808 already surging by 20--30°/u this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. >4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations > The "Statement of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience over the physical and financial survival of your constituents. > Thankyou to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. > Sincerely, > John Eon and Alice Park >-Anaheim Date: 3/4/2026 4:42:21 PM From: "Seung Eun" "Norma C. Kurtz" NKiutz,'d)anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" To NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBaliusganaheim.net, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" publiecomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, 11I11dil" Y. Gagnon" IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim Hills Festival apartments [You don't often get email from Leant why this is important at https://aka.rs/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Waring: 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 am writing to formally oppose the final adoption ofthe 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incorTlete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to 1IRAppendix C (Responses to Written Corrmrents), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension oftime to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission of Regional"Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Wes Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of commuters fromYorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridorthat is already a regional rehcfvalve is a direct violation ofthe General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization ofthe Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our crumbling insurance market. With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20-30% this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to tamers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The "Statement ofOverriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alteratives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle You are prioritizing developer convenience over the physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. Sincerely, Seung Fun naheim Date: 3/4/2026 4:35:00 PM Frog "john eun"- "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" To: NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius*anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Public Conmrnt" publieconarnt@anaheimnet Cc: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" iGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim Hills Festival site: please vote NO [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at his://aka.rm/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] 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 amwriting to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City admits this project results in a "potential extension oftime to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission of Regional"Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of comrarters fromYorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridorthat is already a regional reliefvalve is a direct violation ofthe General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization ofthe Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our crumbling insurance market. With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20�30"/o this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of overriding Considerations The "Statement ofOvcniding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience overthe physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. Sincerely, John Eun Date: 3/6/2026 8:31:02 AM Frog ' "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake [Some people who received this message don't often get email fro am why this is important at httos://aka.ns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] 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. > On Mar 2, 2026, at 11:14 AM om wrote: > Dear Council Member, > I amwttting to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its lin it. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add ovcr400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. > The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 mimutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. > We need our leaders to lookat the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. > Sincerely, > Tony Megariotis Date: 3/6/2026 9:44:43 AM From "Bridge, Sandra" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] PROJECT: Anaheim Ms Festi-al Apartments You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important 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. Michael Bridge Sandra Bridge Anaheim Hills, CA 92808 We are very concerned over the 4-3 vote to confirm building the subject apartments My husband and I have been residents at the above location for 31 years and have raised 3 children at this location. We have lived through 3 wildfires (2 of which we were evacuated). And I can say the experience of the evacuation was not a pleasant one due to the limited routes to get in and out of the area. Within the last 2-3 years, I can say that the traffic (especially on Thursday and Friday evenings) is horrific. I believe this is due to the apps that people use to reroute out of the heavy traffic on the 91 freeway. My specific neighborhood has been backed up so bad that getting out or back into my neighborhood has been intolerable. When trying to exit either off Oak Canyon (where the Serrano traffic backs up on Weir Canyon) or off Riverview to get onto Santa Ana Canyon to Weir is atrocious. People coming down Santa Ana to get on the 91 always block the ongoing traffic proceeding onto Santa Ana by ignoring the red lights and just keep coming through. I am sure our concerns have already been put out in these meeting and it is beyond comprehension that anyone in their right mind could vote for this project. I would expect those who voted for it do not live in this area and will not be impacted. I can only imagine what the traffic will be like once these apartments have been built adding thousands more people. There are already plenty of apartments, condominiums in this area already and there is certainly no reason to build more. The impact alone of the additional people, vehicles, etc. will certainly destroy the peacefulness of this area (of which has already been encroached upon due to the redirection of traffic). We will be attending the second meeting on 3.24. The contents of this email (including any attachments) may contain confidential, proprietary or legally privileged inforr tion, and is intended only for the named recipient(s). If this email, is not addressed to you, and/or you have received this email in error, please notify the sender irrimediately and delete the email (including any attachments). Unauthonzed dissernination, distribution, disclosure, saving, copying or reliance on this information is unauthorized and strictly prohibited. Ryan Specialty accepts no liability for any damage caused by email comnurication. Privacy Notice Additional Privacy Notice for California Residents Date: 3/8/202612:06:05 PM From "Ashley Rohner" To: "Public Connuent" publiccomrnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] You don't often get email fro Learn mb is is jM ant 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. Hello, As an Anaheim Hills resident, I am writing to express my serious concerns regarding several issues impacting our con rutity's safety and local economy. Specifically, I amtroubled by flaws in the recent traffic study, inconsistencies within the 'Know Your Way" evacuation plan, and the severe parking shortfall. If these matters are not addressed, they will have a significant negative impact on public safety and our local businesses. I urge you to take the necessary steps to keep Anaheim Hills safe and beautiful. Thank you for your tine and consideration. Sincerely, Ashley Rohner Date: 3/9/2026 6:46:51 AM From: "peter rohner" To: "Public Comment" publiccommetrt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] You don't often get email from am why this is important 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. Hello, As an Anaheim Hills resident, I am writing to express my serious concerns regarding several issues impacting our conirn ity's safety and local economy. Specifically, I amtroubled by flaws in the recent traffic study, inconsistencies within the 'Know Your Way" evacuation plan, and the severe parking shortfall. If these matters are not addressed, they will have a significant negative impact on public safety and our local businesses. I urge you to take the necessary steps to keep Anaheim Hills safe and beautiful. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, The Rohner firmly. Date: 3/9/2026 11:46:26 AM From: "thirdaxis Cleveland"I "Public Comment" publiecommentCanaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken a)anaheimnet, "krrraas@anaheimnet" To: krmas@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks rcanaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahseaanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project need thorough reconsideration You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important 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. Subject: Thank You for Your Leadership and Request for Continued Review — Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project (DA 2023- 00043) Dear Mayor Ashleigh Aitken, Councilmember Kristen Maahs, and Councilmember Natalie Meeks, I am speaking for many community members and am writing to sincerely thank each of you for the thoughtful engagement and considerations you demonstrated in voting 'No' on March 3, 2026, regarding the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment proposal (Development Application No. 2023-00043 / FEIR No. 358). You took the citizens seriously and give careful consideration to the well-founded and serious concerns voiced in the public testimony, the presented administrative record, and the legitimate safety issues raised by residents regarding wildfire evacuation capacity, emergency response access, and cumulative infrastructure impacts in Anaheim Hills. The evacuation maps clearly show that each evacuation will spill into an impregnatable traffic grid and bring everything to a stop with no way out. As a homeowner and resident in Anaheim Hills since 2002 1 have, along with many other residents, experienced multiple significant wildfire events including the 1993 Eastern Anaheim Hills Fire, 2008 Freeway Complex Fire, and the 2017 Canyon Fire 2. These events were proof of immense evacuation vulnerabilities, particularly along Santa Ana Canyon Road, which remains the primary evacuation corridor for much of the community. In 2017, Serrano feeding into Cannon was closed, Nohl Ranch became an impenetrable grid for those trying to escape our neighborhoods, and it took many of us up to 3 hours to escape down the hill, just to have to escape into side roads as Santa Ana Canyon was completely blocked. It is our understanding that the proposed project introduces 447 residential units within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, replacing a historically commercial use within the Anaheim Hills Festival Specific Plan area and requiring a General Plan Amendment, Specific Plan Amendment No. 6, Zoning Code changes, certification of Final EIR No. 358, and adoption of a Statement of Overriding Considerations. Unlike the prior cinema use, which reflected the already residing population driving to the cinema and home again the residential density introduces: • A permanent 24-hour sleeping population • Children and elderly residents • Mobility -limited and medically vulnerable populations • Increased demand on EMS transport, fire response, and hospital systems In the event of a wildfire, not onlythe infrastructure/vehicle evacuations should deserve serious consideration, but also children that need to be picked up from schools, emergency vehicles and fire engines getting access to burning structures, senior evacuations from senior citizen facilities, evacuation of horses from the Saddle club. And please do bear in mind that a fire doesn't respect rush hour traffic, which we are already suffering under daily from school pick up at El Rancho, to commuters and large commercial vehicles utilizing Serrano, Nohl Ranch and Santa Ana Canyon as shortcuts to Green River, Corona, Riverside and beyond to avoid grids on the 91 Wildfire evacuations rarely follow orderlytraffic modeling assumptions. Real evacuation scenarios involve: • Panic -driven departures • Disabled vehicles blocking lanes • Smoke -limited visibility • Simultaneous neighborhood evacuations • Emergency vehicle ingress while residents attempt to exit Congestion is enormous and accelerates in no time at all. Many of us trust your good judgement and we deeply appreciate your willingness to scrutinize whether the record sufficiently demonstrates a reliable viability with the City's General Plan Safety Element and adequate wildfire evacuation capacity. After careful deliberation with concerned residents, we see that there are still Procedural Steps Available Following the March 3, 2026, Vote, as follows: Although the Council voted 4-3 to approve the project on March 3, 2026, several procedures remain available before the decision becomes fully final. 1. Request for City Council Rehearing Under Anaheim Municipal Code §1.12.100, a party may request a City Council rehearing of a decision. A request must be filed with the City Clerk within seven (7) days of the Council decision and must include a Declaration of Merit identifying grounds such as: • abuse of discretion • lack ofjurisdiction • denial of a fair hearing • newly discovered evidence. Because the Council vote occurred March 3, 2026, the deadline for filing a rehearing request would be: March 10, 2026 If granted, the rehearing would vacate the prior decision and allow the Council to reconsider the project. 2. Second Reading of Ordinances Projects requiring General Plan and zoning amendments typically require two readings of the ordinance before final adoption, consistent with the City Charter's legislative procedures. If the ordinances for this project were introduced on March 3, 2026, the second reading is expected to occur at a subsequent Council meeting later in March. At that meeting the Council would vote on final adoption of the ordinance, which is a critical final legislative step before the approvals become effective. 3. CEQA Judicial Review If the Cityf les a Notice of Determination (NOD) following certification of FEIR No. 358, the California Environmental Quality Act provides a 30-day statute of limitations forjudicial review. This would allow parties to challenge the environmental review process, commonly on grounds such as: • inadequate wildfire evacuation analysis • incomplete cumulative impact analysis • insufficient mitigation measures • unsupported Statement of Overriding Considerations. 4. Broader Legislative Options City councils retain legislative authority to reconsider or rescind certain prior actions where permitted under procedural rules and applicable law, provided such actions comply with the same notice and voting requirements that applied to the original decision. Request for Continued Leadership Given the significant wildfire evacuation and life -safety concerns raised during the hearing process, I join my neighbors to respectfully ask that you continue to evaluate whether the administrative record sufficiently demonstrates: • Consistency with the General Plan Safety Element (Gov. Code §65302(g)) • Adequate system -level wildfire evacuation capacity • Appropriate consideration of cumulative development impacts • Whether the Statement of Overriding Considerations adequately justifies overriding significant safety impacts The decision before the Council does not merely approve a single development project; it fundamentally amends long-standing land -use planning for the Anaheim Hills commercial core. These decisions will affectwildfire evacuation risk and infrastructure capacityfor decades. Many Anaheim Hills residents greatly appreciate the time you invested in reviewing this project, and navigating the complexities of the proposed development, and ensuring that public safety concerns were and will continually be very carefully examined. Local governance requires balancing housing policy, environmental law, and life -safety responsibilities. Your vote demonstrated a commitment to carefully weighing those competing obligations and considering the voice of the people. Especially after seeing the dreadful ramifications in the LA fires. Our insurances have either raised the premiums to almost unaffordable heights or completely canceled some insured! If a home is lost, just as in the Palisades and Eaton fires, not only would a homeowner have to continue to pay their mortgage, but also rent for alternative housing, and also wait for an inordinate amount of time on insurances (if available) and permitting to rebuild. This would invariably result in homeowners having to give up their homes and force them to move. Not to mention loss of life and livelihoods. Thank you again for your service to the City of Anaheim and for representing the voices of residents who live in wildfire -prone hillside communities. Respectfully, Anna Wentges Long time homeowner and resident in Anaheim Hills Date: 3/10/2026 2:58:35 PM From: "Jen McCool" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheilnnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival and thoughts from hearing 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. Sent from my iPhone > 1 apologize in advance for being all over the place. I'm to shock and 1 tound the words and ideas of some council to be very sick. > I think it's fair to say depending on where you live here you have a different perspective. Living here since 95 1 can tell you every fire has been very different as well. The last was not good and the fire department was in prepared. Know your way is a joke and residents knew better then the fire department with all due respect. > I also heard mention of weeding or clearing that has taken place. I can not recall in 25 years ever clearing the hill behind me. Property had sprinklers owned by developer turned over to Irvine company then given to national Forrest. Area never maintained. I also heard FD say they work with HOA we gave all the trees and maintenance is non existent and we back the 241. It's pure fueL 4 houses from 241 hillside. > In all the reports and ideas done two things have never been addressed and I suppose I'm looking for an answer. One the cut through IE traffic grows by the day and any look at previous years, today or even a year from now are in recognizable especially near Weir Canyon. On Weir Serrano or Santa Ana canyon. I heard last right we had wide roads with shoulders that simply is not true. Two in an evacuation Ike the last you need to count and realize it's more then 92808 evacuating it's Yorba Linda and from there VP and OPA. What measures have been taken coordinating with those cities" Also on a random Tuesday you can not even get near the freeway. I had heard a suggestion to block and allow cars on SAC or freeway to allow people out. As you know those efforts would not work and in stand still traffic your not clearing anything. > I heard a lot about the building codes for this proposal and to be honest that's not my concern having my own family neighbors etc to get out and as people were stuck on festival parking lot last time because we could not get out the plan is to permanently put another Ik plus people and cars? > I heard about fairmont road expansion which I do not believe wig do anything but how are we not required to address the situation PRIOR to approving anything regardless? It's extremely wrecked to do so and I'm sure opens city to liability being it's been brought to attention and documented > I think people are open to change but again lice the old Kaiser location that puts no one at risk and is not where traffic cuts through daily to the IE. > I do not know if in your home location you have to travel weir or get across the freeway at night to YL it should not take 45-1 hr to go 2-3 miles. Pies above sorry there is "no room" as the traffic authority report's and no shoulder on divided highway. > My last concern is look at Savi ranch once thriving center is now dead with an elevated crime rate. Kids play in the run down empty store parking lots. Brilliant of YL part but it destroyed everything. > Even if festival or a sim lar area was to rezone it should do to our wildfire zone have to stay like other properties 2 stories tall overall speaking. > I would think too after hearing from council I'm voting due to a district not being able to get out we need to do the same hear is criminal and could probably be so on record. There are no wildfires in the city areas and no canyon winds that have blown out windows or ripped tiles off our homes. > Once something is done it's permanent and a lot of us put every dollar we have into our homes to let some Pissed off council decide our future. 04 First Street Does Anaheim Hills have Wildfire Risk? Major There are 9,830 properties properties in Anaheim Hills that have some risk of being affected by wildfire over the next 30 years. This represents 62°1 of all properties in Anaheim Hills. In addition to property damage, wildfire can also cutoff access to utilities, emergency services, ■ ■ impact evacuation routes, and may impact the overall economic well-being of an area, Overall, Anaheim Hills has a major risk of wildfire over the next 34 years. This is based on the level of risk the properties face rather than the proportion of properties with risk. WCR ol11 Properties at risk from fire Minimal Minx modwift Major Severe Extreme Residential: Major Risk 0 Infrastructure: Major Risk 9,751 out of 16,117 homes at risk 8 out of 18 facilities at risk Commercial: Major Risk Q Social: Major Risk 264 out of 378 properties at risk 25 out of 48 facilities at risk > I would also like to point out as it stands fire and emergency personnel has a difficult time getting to certain areas since we do not have shoulders. This is a very narrow city part that goes to the only way out to the IE the congestion is like nothing else in any other city or street. > If other council need to make changes to their district so be it but do not play a game with Wes and openly. > This area is a multi city thing not just Anaheim everything here is shared with Yorba Linda sat the very least as well. There project in La Pahna was shut down do you traffic evacuation and the fire zone. > I do want clarification as some of these things have never been addressed and I'm curious as to why they have not because they are a huge impact > Before anything is approved this should be fixed this should never be my view of terror out my window. > Sent from my Shook > Jennifer Date: 3/10/2026 3:04:09 PM From "Jeri McCool" To: "Public Continent" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] F"d: Festival proposed project NO 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. First off I want to say I'm disappointed in the fact that any development in this area will have the saner negative impact and speaking in them individually appears to be a waste of valuable time. I also think before and vote is placed that the people voting should experience living here in daily traffic. If you vote for any project here you have never tried to escape a fire. You have no plan coordinated with Yorba Lina Or Villa Park. You have never addressed the issue of this being the bottleneck entrance to the IE that grows daily. The know your way while I understand the idea behind it, it's not realistic at all and in an actual fire semrio we need to escape or get up any location we can to protect our family. Know your way really does nothing except flood all cars to the freeway which all neighboring cities are also heading the same direction. Yesterday on a Thursday it was 30 min between Weir and imperial with an average speed of 3-6 m>ph Then I will attach a video from Weir and Serrano around 4. This area ofAH just like Yorba Linda, Villa park and OPA are single and double lane roads with no shoulders and no center dividers so unlike downtown areas when there is traffic there is NO WAY for escape or fire or police or ambulance etc to get through Wayz has turned this eitire area nrto a flood of cais cutting through to the IE. Please understand even without a fire a nearly 3 hour window to maybe get out is not ok and with puts of in parking lots or stuck on weir Serrano or Santa Ana canyon and small streets to them in our cars. No coordination with other cities has been done on this please realize Anahrim does not act alone. I have shared my story before. In last fire I got hit by a fire tornado realizing I could not get out, my husband took hours to get to EL Rabcho to get our son and get to my parents house in Yorba Linda which was also evacuated where hones burned. Our daughter was at Orange Lutheran and a famnly took her to there home in VP which was evacuated where they then tried to get to another home in OPA that was evacuated roads closed all cars stuck on streets. We were unable to get to her till the middle of the night, then unable to get back together as a family as 4 cities were evacuated and not allowing cats or people back in dues to loss of homes and spot flies. Festival well I'll just leave this right here, my husband said it's like the TITANIC they bull thus big beautiful boat with not enough life vests, they knew it and in the end we all know how that panned out. This new proposal no different from the rest does not help our streets our daily life our ability to leave our homes or ability to get out in a fire_ The stricture is grossly underestimated and with not enough spots the structure and lower deck of festival would be taken over which would also impact and destroy current businesses which we desperately need here. What I think you all should be looking at is Savi ranch when YL built those apartments it was impossible to get in and out most titres, A turned red on crime map, and nearly every business with the expectation of three have gone out ofbusiness, it's a area heavily avoided and difficult to get to and from anyway do to the changes. It's a mess really. I'm tired of listening to union workers speak about temp jobs that leave a penrarient dangerous disaster behind. You know with the way things are most of us can not just pick up and move to get away. Also fir the last 5 years straight Anaheim has seen a decline in residence and a trip to google or 1 of 100's of articles will tell you they are all leaving to south county to get away from the traffic the high density and the crime, they want clean open streets. Dog parks , trails, less crime, less people. Instead of developing anything Anaheim should be building open clean spaces. You already know this though People do NOT want any of this and I believe in other districts there are issues that they brought up that should also be worked out, stick it to the people or I hope you guys die, or make people's daily life miserable should not be what we're voting Please I'm asking and I guess begging at this point our quality of life and restriction of movement in our comyntnity is at an all tirre high. The city will be responsible going forward with damage death ambulance and fire personnel that can not make it to us even in a Tuesday in an energency. We do not and will never have the set up as a downtown area. Please also note that Yorba Linda fumed down project on LA pahm directly across the way no builders remedy either due to evacuations and fie and we are in it worse over here. Tim to put us fast please. I know you can do the right thing for the people ake the entire city a place to go to not to go from Jennifer Sent from my iPhone Date: 3/10/2026 3:56:47 PM From "Joni Gaynor" To: "Public Comimnt" publiccommeirt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Save Anaheim Hills You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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 Joni Gaynor Date: Sun, Feb 1, 2026 at IOD5 PM Subject: Save Anaheim Hills To:<publiccorrrwMQmmaheimnet>, <aaitl canaheimnet>, <cleo egmb� unnet>, <rbaliB&anaheimnet>, <nubalcaieimnet>, <nkurtz(a�,ar�aheimnet>, <kmaahs@wiahennnet>, <nmeekskanahennnet> Dear Members of the Council, Thank you for allowing comniumity members to participate in the review of the Festival project. I amwriting to formally oppose the proposed residential development at the Festival shopping center and to respectfully request that public comment be reopened at the March 3 City Council meeting. The developer has been graved additional opportunities to revise, clarif} , and present their proposal with respect to them working with union workers. Residents of this community deserve the sane opportunity to respond, especially given the seriousness of the safety concerns involved.There are still variables that need to be addressed such as alternative locations for this housing project, the traffic report that has yet to be publically shared, etc. Reopening public corrarerh is essential to maintaining faimess, transparency, and public trust in this process. My primary concern is evacuation safety, not routine daily traffic. The proposed project relies heavily on the "Know Your Wad' evacuation plan, which remains untested, poorly communicated, and unrealistic under real emergency conditions. During an active wildfire or similar disaster, it is not reasonable to expect residents to behave in a calm, purely rational miner. People will attempt to return home to protect family members, pets, and property, regardless of guidance to do otherwise. This has been proven in fires such as Canyon 2 Fire, Ahadem Fires, Paradise Fire, and the Maui Fires. There is no clear or workable plan for evacuating elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, or children The facility just behind the proposed Festival project is a senior residence housing facility and drag the last two fires, I had neighbors who could not gain access to them because the road between the proposed Festival project and the senior housing was at a stand still These populations require additional time, assistance, and coordination, yet the proposal does riot address how those needs would be met The effectiveness of the evacuation approach has not been studied, and there are no clearly defined evacuation tirruline goals that demonstrate how long it would take to safely clear the area. This also impacts me personally as I live m the tract just above the proposed Festival project and it took me 2.5 hours to drive from my home to Target (less than 1 /4 nnle), jumping the sidewalk to get there. Changing the Festival site from con wrcial to residential zoning significantly increases evacuation risk. When fire danger is high, few people are shopping, but when an emergency begun, everyone attempts to go home. Residential development adds hundreds ofvehicles that will all be moving simultaneously during an evacuation, placing additional strain on already limited routes. Finally, approval of this project sets a precedent If the Festival project is allowed to move forward, it becomes more likely that other large scale projects, such as Deer Canyon or future developments, will also be approved, compounding evacuation risks across the comnnnity. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to reopen public conment at the March 3 meeting and to carefiilly reconsider this project with evacuation safety as a primary factor. Our comnnity deserves a meaningful opportunity to defend our safety and well being. Lastly, you took an oath to protect the citizens ofyour community. I would say that approving this project does just the opposite. Tbis project puts ALL of your District 6 residents in HARM! Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Joni Gaynor Joni Gaynor Joni Gaynor Date: 3/10/2026 4:33:42 PM From: "Linda Ruiz' "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon Wpnaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" To: KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKtutz*anaheimnet, "Natalie `leeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimne4 "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Linda Ruiz" Subject: [EXTERNAL] March 24 meeting [You don't often get email fro Leant why this is important at https://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. To those council members who voted yes on the Festival project, please reconsider. i have never been involved in city projects but this one hits me personally. My fatrily has lived in Anaheim Hills for 25 years and have been evacuated twice. We have done everything possible to keep our home safe. But it is up to you to do the same. Please reconsider this project as fives could be put in danger. Many believe that people who live here are entitled. This is far from the truth. My husband and I worked so hard to be able to afford to five here and have never taken it for granted. Please do not play politics with our lives. Thank you, Linda Ruiz Date: 3/10/2026 8:12:09 PM From "Aline Young" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival Center -Re Hearing Needed Waring: 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 respectfiilly request a rehearing on this matter because the issue of wildfire risk has not been adequately evaluated or addressed. Anaheim Hills is a high fire severity zone, and any decision that could potentially increase risk to residents deserves the rmst careful sent*. Whrle developrrient and econorric considerations are important, they must never outweigh the furxlamental responsibility to protect public safety. Elected officials are entrusted with nnauitaining a careful balance between growth and the quality of fife and safety of the comrnarity. In this case, corny residents believe that balance has not been properly achieved. There is also widespread concern regarding the accuracy and practicality of the proposed evacuation plan. In a fist -moving wildfire scenario, evacuation routes m Anaheim Hills are already limited and heavily constrained. Many residents do not believe the current plan realistically reflects the conditions that would occur during an actual emergency. Given the potential consequences, it is essential that this issue be reviewed again with full transparency and careU consideration of the fire danger and evacuation realities facing this cornrnurity. Aline Young Date: 3/10/2026 8:26:57 PM From: "Melanie Pollak" To: "Public Coninent" publiccomrent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] No to The Festival Center Development in Anaheim Hills You don't often get email from Learn whthis is mMortant 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. Hello, My name is Melanie Pollak. I'm a 20-year resident of Anaheim His and a Destination Services Manager with Visit Anaheim In my role as a Services Manager, I am always excited to champion new projects and developtrents in Anaheim and I work hard to get others excited about new things, as well However, the 400+ unit development in Anaheim Hills recently approved by the City Council is nothing to be excited about. Wlnle I realm that we need to surge busing in Anaheim as well as every city in Orange County to meet rising demand, Anaheim Hills lacks the infrastructure to support 600-750 more cars on Santa Ana Canyon, Weir Canyon, and the other roads near the Festival Center. During the last terrrble wildfire, it took residers up in the neighborhoods near Festival Center and above, 4 hours to evacuate. Had that fire been fast rmvin� like the Paradise and Palisades fires, those residents would be dead. There is an additional safety issue in having so many rmre cars on roads that house several elementary and noddle schools. If parents have to deal with gridlock traffic when getting their kids to school and having to then go to work, there is an increased risk of accidents. Speaking of schools, how marry additional students will the schools in Anaheim Hills have to absorb? If there is an increase in students and an increase in drive time to get kids to school, schools will have to allocate additional funds for before and after school care for students who have to be dropped off early in order to allow for parents to get through increased traffic to get to work on time. If you are quick to say that the cars can just hop on the 91 freeway, you've obviously never been on the 91 West during the morning hours. It's a parking lot. The main streets of Anaheim Hills will also turn into parking lots during heavy morning, afternoon, and evening drive times, and there will be a big countdown to the inevitable of losing green space on the shoulders of our major streets in order to create additional lanes to accommodate increased traffic. I will say it again, as a champion of new developments in Anaheim this project will have a significant effect on the quality of life in Anaheim Hills. strongly urge the Council to reverse course on this development and reject it. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Melanie Pollak - Destination Services Manager, Visit Anaheim Anaheim I I& Date: 3/11/2026 5:02:55 PM Frog "Donna Holland" "Public Conrnent" publicconnuent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*anaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at httns://aka.nms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I amwriting to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 minutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Donna Holland Anaheim Hills Date: 3/13/202611:46:29 AM From: "Navin Kumar' "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "caleon@anaheimnet" caleon@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" To: NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaabs@anaheimne4 "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anahe"net, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Indhira Y. Gagnon" Cc: IGagnon@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project (FIR No. 358) You don't often get enaul fro Learn why this is iWortant 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. To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I am writing to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following: 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City adinits this project results in a "potential extension of time to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death. Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2. Omission of Regional 'Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as primary "shortcuts" for thousands of commuters from Yorba Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridor that is already a regional relief valve is a direct violation of the General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization of the Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our crumbling insurance market. With premiums in 92807/92808 already surging by 20-30% this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the "risk density" has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The 'Statement of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit - rich areas like the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience over the physical and financial survival of your constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th. Sincerely, Navin Kumar Anaheim, CA92808 Date: 3/16/2026 7:23:51 PM Frog "RAZVAN UNGUREANU" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email fro am why this is important at httns:,/aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, i am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the stroke get closer, and literally not roving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Razvan Ungureanu Date: 3/17/2026 9:19:40 PM From: "Emalee Cramer" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about the Festival Center Project and Wildfire Safety [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at httns:,/aka.ns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Member, I moved to Anaheim Hills because it is a beautiful, family -oriented corrimnity, but I am very concerned about the proposed Shea/Festival Center apartment project. Since moving here, I've learned that our neighborhood is in a high -risk fire zone with very limited ways to get out. I was shocked to read that it already takes over three hours to evacuate this area during an emergency. Adding over 1,000 more people and their cars to our streets seems like a huge risk to everyone's safety. The project's environmental report admits that these new apartments will make evacuation times even longer. As a parent, I think about what would happen if a fire broke out while I was trying to get o safety. Ifthe roads are already failing, adding hundreds more cars into the m ixwill make a bad situation impossible. It feels like the city is hoping for the best rather than planning for the worst. I amnot against new housing in general, but it has to be built in the right places. Putting high -density housing at a known bottleneck in a fire zone is not responsible. I am asking you to please put our safety first and vote "No" on this project until we have a real solution for getting people out of the Hills safely. Sincerely, Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/18/2026 9:59:18 AM From "Joy Pickett' To: "Public Connnent" publiccommeirt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival Project Waring: 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 vote NO! This development will put us all - current and future homeowners - in jeopardy during fire season Many will die. Joy Pickett Date: 3/18/2026 2:23:20 PM From "Tony" — "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email from am why this is important at httns://aka.rrs/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Subject: Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue Dear Council Member, I amwriting to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartnrnts at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic" —it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds ofnew apartments and about 1000+more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out ofthe Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Tony G. Date: 3/18/2026 4:18:07 PM From 'Betty Farns,"orth" "Public Conrnent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurb2*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival center development [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at https://aka.rrs/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Hello, As a 60 year resident ofthe city of Anaheim, I amwriting to ask you to vote NO on the proposed 447 unit apartment building at The Festival Center. The Festival Center is in a Very High Fire Severity Zone. The evacuation route is one road only. Santa Ana Canyon to get to the 91 via Weir or Imperial. TOTAL DISASTER Anaheim contracted with Dudek (same company that did the study for Shea Festival project) to conduct a Wildfire Evacuation Study. I actually attended the community meeting that Dudek conducted. To date, there has not been a release ofresults fromthat study. Where is that infomration7 The city council voted against the SALT proposed Deer Canyon development, citing the Very High Fire Severity Zone as well as significant evacuation concerns. Those conditions are the EXACT same for the Festival project. Therefore the Festival Project also requires a NO vote. I do understand there has been significant development in some of the other districts in our city. NONE ofthose developments are in a Very High Fire Severity Zone like this project. I urge that a different location be identified in Anaheim District 6 that is NOT subject to these extremely dangerous conditions and not allowing any development on Santa Ana Canyon until infrastructure improvements (ie Fairmont overcros s ing) is completed. PROTECTING LIVES OF RESIDENTS THROUGHOUT THE CITY OF ANAHEIM IS EVERYCOUNCIL PERSONS RESPONSIBILITY. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHICH DISTRICT YOU REPRESENT. WE ARE ALL ANAHEIM RESIDENTS. Please do right by the citizens ofAnaheim and vote NO. Thank you, Betty Farnsworth Date: 3/18/2026 6:12:29 PM From "Julie Huang" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurtz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue You don't often get enrol fro am this is ' ortant 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim to ask you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Freeway Fire and Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling of being stuck m my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not moving Zr over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic" —it was a total starrdst ll. The thought of adding hundreds of new apar anents and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those of us who have actually been in that situation The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation firm. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is rnoving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out ofte Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding rnore people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs lousing but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new developrnent. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay takes here. Sincerely, Julie Huang Date: 3/18/2026 8:16:25 PM From "Tracy O'Day" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nonrua C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheitnnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Menber, I amwriting to you again as a resident of Anaheimin the Sunrrit conrmnity by Running Springs Elementary School to ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. As stated previously, I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car for hours, watching the smoke get closer, and barely rmving down Santa Ana Canyon Rd. It wasn't just "traffic" it was a total standstill. The thought ofadding hundreds ofnew apartments and 1000+more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads out ofthe Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding tmre people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. At the last meeting, I heard that a Wildfire Evacuation Study was approved. I heard that it was supposed to be delivered in January, but it remains unreleased. How can it be approved if it has not been released? And how can you be sure that the plan actually works? And If the report is needed for CEQA cornpliance, then how can the city be compliant without the released report? So without the Evacuation Study, there's really no proof that residents in Anaheim Hills will be safe in an emergency evacuation. Another point, does the Wildfire Evacuation Study include the addition ofthe new housing units, or was it done with just the existing homes? If not done with the proposed new housing and additional 1000+residents, wouldn't that need to be done and released before the report can be approved? I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place that has high fire dangerwhere people are already struggling to evacuate safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the fives and safety ofthe people who already five and pay LaXes here. Thank you for listening to my concerns and I hope you will put our conrmnity safety fast by voting NO on building this development Sincerely, Tracy O'Day Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/18/2026 8:18:00 PM Frog "Sharon Huang' "Public Comment" publicconnuent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nonrn'a C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at https://aka.rns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I amwriting to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 minutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/19/202612:39:14 AM From "LoriHughes" To: "Public Cotmnent" publiccomnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] FKcI: Anaheiml4ills Festival Center Project You don't often get email fro Learn wllthis Is Mportant 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 Lori Hughes Date: Sun, Feb 8, 2026 at 1029 AM Subject: Fwd: Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project To: ---------- Forwarded message --------- From Lori Hughes Date: Wed, Feb 4, 2026 at 1:57 AM Subject: Fwd: Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project To: ---------- Forwarded message --------- From Lori Hughes Date: Tue, Feb 3, 2026 at 3:10 PM Subject: Re: AnaheimHi71s Festival Center Project To: <publiccomn rritL&maheimnet> February 3, 2026 City ofAnaheim Mayor and Members ofthe City Council Regarding: Anaheim Hills Festival Center 447-unit residential project (Development Application No. 2023-00043) Dear Mayor and Members ofthe City Council, I am writing to formally express my opposition to the proposed 447-unit residential development at Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I am an Anaheim Hills resident, and my entire family have been Anaheim Hills residents for the last 25 years. I am kindly requesting that the real life and death concerns regarding evacuations in our community betaken very seriously. Voting yes on the housing developmert at Festival Center will bring too many additional cars into the nix, iniking evacuations during a fire fir more difficult and dangerous than was already the case in previous fires. I have heard that things will be done differently when the next fire cones to our commgmity, but this offers no assurance at all! Whatever different evacuation scenarios have been proposed, have not been tested in real life! The inl astructure remains the same, no matter what! The typical tine to travel 1/4 to 1/2 mile during the 2017 fires was about 2 1/2 hours. How could that have even been acceptable to begin with! This supposed 7 additional minutes evacuation time to get out with the new housing project is absolutely preposterous! ! ! Fires are unpredictable, people in a panic are unpredictable. It's a nice idea to think that all would go well and be fine, but that is simply not realistic! Eleven ofnry family nenibers reside in AnaheimFhlls (including my 93 year old mother). Six members ofmy family live behind or near the Festival Center. They have been through the last few fires, and their experiences during the 2017 evacuation were terrifying! ! ! I am deeply concerned about the safety and well being of my family umbers, and neighbors who live here! I know that in a real life situation, I would stop at nothing to rescue a number of my fat*. I have heard others state exactly the satne thing! The new controlled "test plans" to evacuate the area is not enough to justify voting yes on this project. Test plans are just that, test plans. Please, please, don't dismiss the connunity's real life and death concerns that are based on past frightening experiences and credible, well documented evidence concerning the very real lack of infrastructure for this project. Thank you for taking the tam to read this, and take seriously these things. Sincerely yours, Lori Hughes Date: 3/19/2026 7:58:33 AM Frog "Rouhina Mehregan" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at his:Haka.rrs/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the stroke get closer, and literally not roving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Rouhina Mehregan Sent fromnry iPhone Date: 3/19/2026 7:58:55 AM Frog "Scott Shtdr' � "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nonrua C. Kurtz" NKuttz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim to ask you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling of being stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traihc° it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds ofnew apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact saner escape route is terrifying to those of us who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation firm. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is rmving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out ofthe Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs busing but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new developtrent. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Scott Shuff Sent from my Phone Date: 3/19/2026 9:12:47 AM From "Heather W" To: "Public Comrent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Vote NO on the Festival Project / public comment You don't often get ernail fro Learn wb�miportant 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 accept this letter as written public comnnemrt against the proposed Festival Project, a high -density housing development located within a designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. I am writing to ask you to vote 'No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apamteramrt project. The city s own reports adnit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during afire. To then say that adding another 7 mmmrtes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality of our streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out of the Hills, of more people trapped in them Please vote 'No" on this project. Sincerely, Heather Wakely District 6 Date: 3/19/2026 7:12:11 AM From "Mike Bebb" � "Public Conrnent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nomura C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, We are writing to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 minutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, MikWei.tnE ebb na Date: 3/19/202610:41:07 AM Frog "Krystyna Fasting" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nonrrra C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the stroke get closer, and literally not roving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Krystyna Kisting Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/19/2026 11:25:00 AM From: "Rick Clark' To: "Public Corrunent" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Apartments in Festival You don't often get email from ELani why this is important 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. When people vote for a project like this it reinforces what they don't know. My wife and I grew up in West Anaheim ,she also lived in East Anaheim and we owned our first home in downtown Anaheim. We never knew anything about wildfires and Santa Ana winds until we moved to Anaheim Hills. We have had a fire burn up to a 100 yards from us -and have had the warning knock that evacuation was close another four.The council members who supported this vote have a detached and uncaring attitude regarding the horror of these events ,comparing them to contained fires in city areas, not even close to the same issue. We are proud lifetime residents of Anaheim. Please don't put our lives in further danger. Rick Clark Anaheim Date: 3/19/202611:28:52 AM Frog "Herm Rittner' "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email fro am why this is irTortant at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Menber, i am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not rnoving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ Wore people to that exact sane escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Hermann Rittner Date: 3/19/202611:33:32 AM From: "DanieIle Heinbuch" "Public Comnent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKuttz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important 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. Subject: Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake Dear Council Member, I amwttting to ask you to vote "No" on the AnaheimHiUs Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "conunon sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 minutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who five here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe 1Fills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Danielle Heinbuch Anaheim Hills Resident Date: 3/19/202611:38:12 AM From "HernlRittner'� "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue 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. Dear Council Member, I amwriting to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic" --it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact sane escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Pleas e don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely Nella Rittnei�Anaheim Date: 3/19/2026 3:31:07 PM Front "Douglas R Robbins' To: "Public Comment" publiccomrnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival 447 Unit Apartment Project 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. Mayor and Council Members, I am writing you to vote NO vote on this Project. This project does not make any logical sense. We are in a very high fire risk zone with an already 3 hour estimated evacuation time. So lets add 1000 plus more cars to that? How does that make sense? It is my belief, as well as many others. That there is some shady dealings going on behind closed doors with this Council. Particularly Natalie Meeks, Natalie Rubalcava and Norma Campos Kurtz. I find their relationships with Kurt Pringle as well as the Carpenters Union to be worrisome. I believe they are selling their votes to these organizations in exchange for donations. And by the way, those young folks that spoke at the last meeting in favor of the project. Were paid by Kurt Pringle, at least that's what they told someone on the way in to the meeting. There is no other explanation for the Council to go against the 300 plus residents, wishes on this Project. These kind of corruption didn't work out well for Harry Sidhu, and isn't going to work out well for them either. Please look in to this matter. It is my understanding that the Council is scheduled to make a final vote on this Project on March 24, 1 will see you there! Thank you. Douglas Robbins Anaheim Ca 92808 Date: 3/20/2026 8:41:52 AM From "Shelley Shull' "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKuttz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] STOPAnaheimHills Festival Project Number: DEV2023-00043 You don't often get eniul fro am why this is important 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. Dear Mayor Aitken and Council Members, Thank you in advance for your time and consideration I live at in Anaheim Hills where I have been a resident for over 32 years. I am writing to express my concerns regarding the Anaheim Hills Festival Project Number: DEV2023-00043 to add 447 multiple -family attached residential units. Adding a complex with at least 1,000 more residents would be disastrous for our community's safety. Please consider the negative impact such a project would have on an already existing congested traffic problem, especially the issue of evacuation in a fire. My family has personally experienced several evacuations. During one of the fires we were unable to leave the area. Traffic was gridlocked. Police blocked access to get elderly out it the senior apartments on Festival. I literally looked him in the eye and told him he was going to be responsible for the death of trapped seniors. I moved the barrier my husband drove in and we were able to get m out. We could not drive any further so we fearfully sat in our car in the Festival parking lot for over 6 hours with our children and 80 year old mother in our car as we watched the fires all around us. Our neighbor and local retired Fire Chief has expressed his great concern for adding more than 800-1,000 permanent residents at Festival Center. The additional traffic would be a detriment to our safety. Please protect our community and our lives by preventing this project from proceeding. Your careful consideration is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Shelley Shuff Date: 3/20/202611:15:26 AM From: "Debbie 13awkins "M "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubaleava" NRubaleava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKuttz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake You don't often get eniul from Learn yft this is uportant 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 minutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality of our streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out of the Hills, not more people trapped in them. Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Debbie Hawkins Date: 3/20/20261:59:47 PM From: "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurfz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vot No on the Shea/Festival Center Apartments for safety reasons Some people who received this message don't often get email fro . Learn why this is important 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim to ask you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling of being stuck in my car, watching the stroke get closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic° it was a total standstiill. Our entire neighborhood was in a state of chaos, parents attempting to rescue their children from schools then getting stuck in standstill traffic with nowhere to go. Our neighborhood was completely closed in, told to evacuate but due to the location of the schools and no street outlets we were stuck. The thought of adding hundreds ofnew apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those of us who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 tmmntes to the evacuation tvne. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is roving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out ofthe Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels lice a tragedy waiting to happen. There is a pending road project for the 241 Toll Road to fiumel Northbound traffic directly into the toll road East bound is only going to cause an unforeseen domino effect just as prior efforts to divert the Riverside traffic have caused. That Riverside traffic is only going to get worse as more housing developments are currently being built and will be ongoing until they run out of room on the 15 freeway. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Katherine Hines Anaheim, CA 92808 Date: 3/20/2026 3:51:27 PM From "Bridget Wmger" To: "Public Comment" publicconunent@anabeimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue You don't often get email from Learnwiry tivs is important 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. Subject: Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center aparmens — It's a safety issue Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim to ask you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling of being stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just "tr�ihc° it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds ofnew apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact sarr e escape route is terrifying to those of us who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 rmrndes to the evacuation firm. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is roving toward you, 7 rimites is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out ofthe Hills; we all end up on the sar ne few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be bulk in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new developer ent. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Bridget Winger District 6 resident Date: 3/20/2026 4:34:13 PM From "Wayne Hawkins"M "Public Conrnent" publicconnuent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubaleava@anaheimnet, "Noma C. Kurtz" NKuttz@auaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email from Learn why this is irTortant at https:/, aka.nis/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not being able to get out ofmy neighborhood for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic" it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Sent from Wayne's iPad. Kenneth W Hawkins na eun 92808 Date: 3/21/202610:16:58 AM From "Julie Fdppi" "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: Cleo a anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nornia C. Kiute' NKurU*anaheimnet, Kristen Maahs KMaahs@anahennnet, Natalie Meeks NMeeks@anaheim net. Public Comment" publiccomnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festval Development CEQA Violation Rudy Emani City Council Agenda Report March 25 2025.pdf;Zone 10 KnowYourWayJpg;Zone 11 Attachment: KnowYourWay jpg;Zone 9 KnowYourWay.jpg;4.9-2_Evacuation Travel Time Analysis Figure 7 Only.pdf;Zone 8 KnowYourWayjpg; You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important 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. Mayor and City Council Members, The proposed Festival Center Development is not merely problematic —it is in clear violation of California Environniental Quality Act (CEQA). The project findamentally undermines the established Know Your Way Evacuation Plan that was in place at the time the Final Enviromiental hnpact Report (FEIR) was prepared, and there is no feasible mitigation for this impact. When the FEIR was developed, the Know Your Way Plan was not hypothetical or "&rid" —it was publicly posted, formally distributed, and actively relied upon by residents. It is the baseline condition CEQA requires to be analyzed. Any deviation from that baseline is not a minor oversight; it is a failure to comply with the law. The FEIR asserts that, in the event of a worst -case fire scenario in Deer Canyon, all traihc along Santa Ana Canyon Road would rove westbound toward Imperial Highway. This claim is flatly inconsistent with the City's own evacuation plan. The Know Your Way Plan explicitly directs residents in Zones 11, 10, 9, and 8 to evacuate eastbound on Santa Ana Canyon Road toward Weir Canyon Road —directly through the location of the proposed developinent. Ignoring this reality does not make the conflict disappear; it renders the FEIR inaccurate and legally deficient. City staff have attempted to justify this discrepancy by describing the evacuation plan as `lluid." That characterization is irrelevant under CEQA. The law does not perinit agencies or developers to rely on vague, shifting assurrptions to avoid analyzing real, docurr anted conditions. CEQA requires a good -faith, evidence -based analysis ofthe actual plan in effect —rot a speculative alternative that minimizes impacts on paper. Further compounding this issue, the City allocated $180,000 in public funds to develop a comprehensive wMf>re evacuation study for the Anaheim Hills area. Yet despite repeated public records requests, residents have been denied access to this information. This lack of transparency raises serious concerns about what the analysis aright reveal and why it has not been disclosed. At a recent City Council meeting, Council Member Meeks expressed confidence in the current evacuation plan. However, Director ofPublic Works, Rudy Ernanmy suggests a far less certain assessrnerit. His City Council Agenda Report dated March 25, 2025 (see attached) outlines deficiencies that directly mirror the concerns residents have consistently raised. These contradictions cannot be igriored--they underscore the need for a clear, honest, and legally compliant analysis. To be clear: the evacuation plan in effect in September 2025, when the FEIR was finalized, is the only plan that can legally serve as the basis for analysis. The developer does not have the authority to revise or reinterpret that plan to make the project appear acceptable. Yet that is exactly what appears to have occurred in the FEIR Appendix 4.9-2 (Evacuation Travel Time Analysis, Figure 7). This is not a technicality. It is a violation ofCEQA, and it demands correction Sincerely, Julie Filppi — Anaheim Resident since 1972 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. Second Floor Anaheim, CA 92805 Tel: (714) 765-5176 Fax: (714) 765-5225 www.anaheim.net CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT City of Anaheim DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DATE: MARCH 25, 2025 FROM: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS SUBJECT: CONSULTANT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DUDEK FOR THE CITY OF ANAHEIM WILDFIRE EVACUATION PLAN ATTACHMENT (Y/N): YES ITEM # 14 GOVERNMENT CODE § 84308 APPLIES: YES RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council, by Motion, approve the professional services agreement, in the not -to -exceed amount of $180,000, with Dudek, for consultant services for the City of Anaheim Wildfire Evacuation Plan, and authorize and direct the Public Works Director, or designee to execute the Agreement, and take any and all actions as are necessary, required or advisable to implement and administer the Agreement; and, 2. Increase the Public Works Department's FY 2024/25 revenue and expenditure budgets in the Restricted Transportation Grant funds by $90,000. BACKGROUND: The easternmost part of the City of Anaheim, commonly referred to as Anaheim Hills, is an At -Risk community. CAL FIRE has designated a majority of this part of the City as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone within a Local Responsibility Area. The location of Anaheim Hills in the wildland-urban interface within the Santa Ana Mountain foothills makes wildfires a significant threat to the area. Given the history of wildfires in the area, the future development of the region, and changes in State legislation around evacuation preparedness, the City is looking to create a comprehensive Wildfire Evacuation Plan for Anaheim Hills. The plan is consistent with recently approved State legislative bills for cities to identify and evaluate evacuation routes in very high fire hazard zones. Additionally, the plan will help the City comply with recent updates to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) when determining the impacts of projects in wildfire prone areas. In March 2024, the City of Anaheim applied for a grant from the California Fire Safe Council (CSFC) USDA State Fire Capacity Grant Program to create a wildfire evacuation plan for the City of Anaheim. The grant is funded by the US Forest Service through the CSFC. In September 2024, the CSFC awarded a $90,000 grant for the City to develop a wildfire evacuation plan (Plan), with a $90,000 local match. DISCUSSION: Consultant Services Agreement with Dudek for the City of Anaheim Wildfire Evacuation Plan March 25, 2025 Page 2 of 3 In October 2024, after awarding of the grant, staff developed and initiated a request for proposals (RFP) for consulting services to develop a Plan. Staff posted an RFP on PlanetBids on November 27, 2024, with a scope of work specifying the following desired objectives (see Attachment 1). • Develop a comprehensive Wildfire Evacuation Plan for Anaheim Hills • Review and update existing mapping of critical evacuation routes, evacuation centers, and single routes of access • Defining evacuation scenarios • Modeling and analysis of these scenarios • Education and outreach campaign for the development of the plan and distribution of evacuation preparedness information • Developing recommendations, including thresholds of significance, possible mitigation measures, and potential impact fee program. At the conclusion of this effort, these findings will be used to inform future policy decisions and also support environmental scoping for future development projects. Consultant proposals were due on December 23, 2024, and as of that date three proposals were received. In accordance with the qualification -based selection process, pursuant to City Council Policy No. 4.1, Public Works established a review board, reviewed proposals, and rated the proposals. The rated proposals are listed below in rank order. Firm Ranking: 1. Dudek 2. Fehr & Peers Associates, Inc. 3. Bureau Veritas North America, Inc. The evaluation criteria included the ability of the consultants to perform the specific tasks outlined in the RFP, qualifications of the specific individuals who will work on the project, amount of time and involvement of key personnel who will be involved in respective portions of the project, reasonableness of the fee requested to do the work, demonstrated record of success by the consultant on work previously performed, and the specific method and techniques to be employed by the consultant on the project. The review board concluded that Dudek was the most qualified firm based on the evaluation criteria and is therefore recommended to provide professional services for the Plan. Therefore, staff recommends that City Council approve the attached professional service agreement with Dudek in the not -to -exceed amount of $180,000, and authorize the Public Works Director to execute the agreement and take any and all actions that are necessary, required or advisable to implement and administer the Agreement. Upon City Council approval of these recommendations, Public Works staff will work to immediately initiate this study effort. Dudek's proposed schedule calls for a nine -month project duration. Consultant Services Agreement with Dudek for the City of Anaheim Wildfire Evacuation Plan March 25, 2025 Page 3 of 3 This item supports Anaheim's Strategic Plan Goal E. — Support Public Safety, Strategy No. 5 — Assess the City's Emergency Preparedness capabilities, resources, and tools, and implement changes as needed to ensure the City is properly positioned to respond to disasters. IMPACT ON BUDGET: This action will increase the Department of Public Works Department's revenue and expenditure budget in Restricted Transportation funds by $90,000 for FY 2024/25. The required match will be supported by the General Fund. Respectfully submitted, Rudy Emami Director of Public Works Attachments: 1. Agreement with Exhibit A (Proposal) 2. City Request for Proposals Kn wyourWaylot P f *MOO *Ot 7 OF S as Description: south of Santa Ana Canyon Road, west of Fairmont Boulevard, north of Canyon Rim Road and east of Anaheim Hills Road Directions: head north to Santa Ana Canyon Road, then east on Santa Ana Canyon Road and onto the 91 freeway { as Anaheim.net/KnowYourWay O a ®cityotanaheim Wity_of_Anaheim City_ of Anaheim Kn wyourWaylot Description: south of Santa Ana Canyon Road, west of Anaheim Hills Road, north of Nohl Ranch Road and east of Imperial Highway Directions: head north to Santa Ana Canyon Road, I 6 then east on Santa Ana Canyon Road and onto the 91 freeway NON�OGJA ROAD ILA z s U �m7 E ~ c�N STA �NF94AD o r m 3 a � o z O m X I HP ,-A Lis { as Anaheim.net/KnowYourWay NRO %41 r z y S E T113ER RRNE _ x n 1 NOW "ONO 0 ®cityotanaheim Wity_of_Anaheim City_ of Anaheim KnowyourWayll I Description: south of the 91 freeway, west of Deer Canyon Park, east of Fairmont Boulevard Directions: head north on Fairmont Boulevard I to Santa Ana Canyon Road, then east on 4, Santa Ana Canyon Road and onto Q�� the 91 freeway P� O a 0 ®cityotanaheim Wity_of_Anaheim City_ of Anaheim Anaheim.net/KnowYourWay LO a oa 00 d v r 7 _a mainaNe'1 } � # c o � 0 O a N J a c �N Z C ^ 0 W c r� o p W Qp N H 7 0 0 O w J o 0 0 0 0> m � J- c 0 W F dLU U�Z o LY C KnowyourWay Description: south of the 91 freeway, east of Weir Canyon Road, north of Canyon Creek Road, east of Deer Canyon Park Directions: head north on Weir Canyon Road �N-AI[iI�L IN ��it� R6S�0 V S ®cityotanaheim Mity_of_Anaheim City_of_Anaheim Anaheim.net/KnowYourWay Date: 3/21/2026 4:16:04 PM From "Linda Ruiz" "Public Continent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" To: KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKtutz*anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] March 24 Meeting [You don't often get email from Learn why this is irriportant at https://aka.ns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Please reconsider the Anaheim Hills Project. The weather we have been experiencing is the reason why we need you to vote down the project. Ifwe even try to go to any retail or restaurant after4pm any day ofthe week, the roads are dead stopped from conirmters traveling to Corona or Riverside. With climate change, the project will add approxirnately 1000 cars trying to get away from the fires. Please vote down this not needed project. Thankyou, Linda Ruiz Anaheim Hills Date: 3/21/2026 5:19:12 PM From "Suzanne Borgese"I "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Member, i am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not rnoving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ Wore people to that exact sane escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Date: 3/21/2026 7:20:22 PM From: "Ellen Belaer" To: "Public Corrnnent" publiccommeirt(&anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Building in Anaheim Hills You don't often get email from Learn wh�miportant 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. My husband and I have lived in Anaheim Hlls since 1987. We have seen all the growth and expansion throughout those years. We have been evacuated twice since living here. We were fortunate that the wind blew the opposite way, however, when we were leaving we could see the fiarnes. The traffic in our area is very concerning if this proposal goes through On any normal day if there is an accident on the 91 freeway the traffic on Santa Ana Carryon is homble and even the other side streets are congested... imagine if there is a fire threat on top ofthat ... we would be the next Paradise. I hope that you all reconsider and put a stop to this possible new building which will add at least 1 000 new residents. Thank you for your titre Ellen & Jerry Bekier Date: 3/21/2026 8:34:28 PM From: "Stacy McGee" To: "Public Comment" publiccommentCanaheimnet "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" Cc: RBalius(a,)anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz(a-,anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs aanaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival Center Project — Responsibility of the Anaheim City Council to Protect All Residents from Severe Fire Dangers You don't often get email from Learn why this is important Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognise the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Anaheim City Council Members, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim Hills to ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. Myfamily and I have lived in the 92807 zip code for 24 years. We have experienced many fires in the area and have been forced to evacuate. The traffic in the surrounding areas is often gridlocked. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those of us who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only' add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up in the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. The city should not allow for additional housing in any area where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse. Approving a major new development without a proven, effective evacuation plan places existing residents at increased risk. Public safety must be resolved before additional density is considered. The safety of all Anaheim residents should be a priority. If this proposal goes through you would be responsible for any injuries or deaths that could occur when there is another fire in the area. For these reasons, I urge you to deny approval of the Festival Center until evacuation and emergency access issues are fully and transparently addressed. With kind regards, Stacy McGee Date: 3/22/2026 8:53:46 AM Franc "Jan Fagner" "Public Comment" publiccomnent@anaheimnet, "Jose Diazza" JoDiaanaheinLnet, "Ryan Balius" To: RBalius@anaheim.net, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheim.net Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival vote [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at his://aka.ns/LeamAboutSenderldentilication ] 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. Dear fellow Anaheim res idents. Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the meeting this Tuesday but I do implore you to consider voting NO on this project . Our emergency exists are already at capacity during normal hours nevern-ind how impossible it was during previous evacuations. The added trnutes to the eventual evacuation is not acceptable. Lives and property are being put at risk.The know yourway plan was a good effort on the city's part but some ofthose few major exit routes had fire on them compounding the delays. When your yes vote costs fives and property loses will you be able to Iive with that decision ? That choice is yours. Than you. Rich Fagner. Sent frommy iPad Date: 3/22/202612:42:40 PM From "Dorsa Froutan" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I amwriting to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 rninutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Dorsa Froutan Date: 3/22/202612:43:31 PM From "Dolsa Froutan" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about the Festival Center Project and Wildfire Safety [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Menber, I moved to Anaheim Hills because it is a beautiful, family -oriented corrmamity, but I am very concerned about the proposed Shea/Festival Center apartment project. Since nerving here, I've learned that our neighborhood is in a high -risk fire zone with very limited ways to get out. I was shocked to read that it already takes over three hours to evacuate this area during an emergency. Adding over 1,000 more people and their cars to our streets secr s like a huge risk to everyone's safety. The project's environmental report admits that these new apartrnents will make evacuation times even longer. As a parent, I think about what would happen if a fire broke out while I was trying to get my [Icids/pets/elderly parents] to safety. Ifthe roads are already failing, adding hundreds more cars into the mixwill make a bad situation impossible. It feels like the city is hoping for the best rather than planning for the worst. I amnot against new housing in general, but it has to be built in the right places. Putting high -density housing at a known bottleneck in a fire zone is not responsible I am asking you to please put our safety first and vote "No" on this project until we have a real solution for getting people out of the Hills safely. Sincerely, Dorsa Froutan & David Shahriari From: Esther Owens Sent: Sunday, March 22, 2026 12:55 PM To: Public Comment <publiccomment@anaheim.net>; Ashleigh Aitken <AAitken@anaheim.net>; Carlos A. Leon <CLeon@anaheim.net>; Ryan Balius <RBalius@anaheim.net>; Natalie Rubalcava <NRubalcava@anaheim.net>; Norma C. Kurtz <NKurtz@anaheim.net>; Kristen Maahs <KMaahs@anaheim.net>; Natalie Meeks <NMeeks@anaheim.net> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 minutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality of our streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out of the Hills, not more people trapped in them. Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Esther Owens Date: 3/22/2026 3:48:52 PM From "Kathy Vargas" To: "Public Comment" publicconuneirt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival project You don't often get emA from Leam why this is important 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. Dear City Council, Please read my opposition to the Festival Center Project. Previously you have heard the residents of Anaheim Hills community stating one of our major concerns is fire evacuation. I live within a smaller community of Anaheim Hills. I live in a community directly off of Santa Ana Canyon Rd where a private road forks into Canyon Crest and Martin Road. These roads have additional roads that branches from them for over hundreds of more residential housing. There's a sign posted at the entry of Canyon Crest and Martin Road that states No Outlet. So, the only way to exit is Santa Ana Canyon Rd. There is 1 stop sign for this exit either for a right or left turn on Santa Ana Canyon Road. A motorist exiting needs to wait until traffic is clear in order to make a right hand turn heading towards the Festival. To make a left hand turn is worse because it has to be clear in both directions to turn safely. There are times such as rush hours when it is more difficult. Down the road on the left is El Rancho Charter School and during dismissal times of course there's traffic coming from the school. In the 26 years we lived in our home we needed to be evacuated twice. We were trapped trying to exit the bumper to bumper traffic on Santa Ana canyon rd before someone let us through. Reminder that Santa Ana Canyon and Canyon Rim are designated evacuation routes. The Festival Center project would vastly impact the traffic and congestion we already have on a daily basis. And fire evacuation is of the utmost priority.) can not imagine any more vehicles added to this road. Please hear the concerns of Anaheim Hills residents and please deny approval for the Festival Center Project. Thank you, Very Sincerely, Kathy and Frank Vargas Martin Rd Anaheim Hills, CA 92808 Date: 3/22/2026 4:17:58 PM From "Aline Young" _ "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue 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. Dear Council Member, I amwriting to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic" --it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact sane escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Pleas e don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Aline Young Date: 3/22/2026 7:27:19 PM From "Jackie" To: "Public Connnent" publiccomrnent(kanahehnnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please do the right thing [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at his://aka.ins/LeamAboutSendcrldentification ] Warning: This ernail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Members, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto please protect those ofus who you represent. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017 and my family witnessed the chaos and gridlock fast hand. It was impossible to gather my family and flee to safety so we opted to monitor closely fromhome and allow those with school children to collect themwith a little more ease. We had to take a chance with our own lives by staying home in order to free up some space on the roads. That should have NEVER happened though. Our fives were in jeopardy because there was NO SAFE WAY OUT! The idea of adding hundreds of new homes/apartments and 1000+more people to that exact same escape route is completely incomprehensible. Our lives would again be in jeopardy if another fire were to erupt. You've had all this time to irrprove the situation but instead propose an idea to put even MORE lives at risk. How can that be? Who does such a thing? I've seen reports, I've heard plans and ideas, I've listened to "experts" and there is nothing, absolutely NOTHINQ that has been proven to be in our best interests. Evacuation time estimates have increased. By how much doesn't even ratter. The time to get out would be longer. And what happened was already unacceptable. We have been here for 35 years and I personally grew up here 60years ago. As a long time AnaheimHills resident, my safety is in more jeopardy than ever. My safety, and that ofmy family, is not a priority to you. Building more structures, thereby increasing the risk to me, is what has become the priority. I'm so disappointed and worried. I'masking that we are listened to again and that you end the madness, once and for all. We are here and we deserve to be heard, prioritized and protected. Pick another location that doesn't pose such an additional threat to those ofus already in the hills. Perhaps the old Kaiserproperty? Sincerely, Jackie Arch Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/22/2026 8:01:42 PM From "Terry Hanly" To: "Public Cornnent" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Reconsider Your Support for the Festival Center Project You don't oiien get email fro Learn why this is important 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 ruessage. Dear Mayor and Members of the Anaheim City Council, I am writing as a 34-year resident of Anaheim Hills to urge you to reconsider your support for the Festival Center project. This development is a bad idea, in a bad location, under bad circumstances. You are considering placing a dense four-story apartment complex and five -story parking structure in an area that is already known to have serious evacuation constraints, limited ingress and egress, and wildfire risk. Residents in Anaheim Hills have already endured hours -long evacuations. That is not speculation. That is lived experience. Yet this project continues to move forward as if those facts are secondary. They are not secondary. They are the issue. This Council already acknowledged the danger of adding density on these same roads when the Hills Preserve project was denied on wildfire and evacuation grounds. The City's own prior finding was that increased density and vehicular trips in this area would increase evacuation time and exacerbate risk to public health and safety. Those words matter. If they were true then, they are true now. You cannot honestly say those same roads were too dangerous for one project but somehow acceptable for another. So what exactly has changed? Not the evacuation routes. Not the wildfire danger. Not the traffic. Not the limited access. Not the lived reality of the residents who will be trapped in that congestion when the next fire comes. What has changed is that this project is now being pushed forward anyway. That is why so many of us believe this project is being driven by development pressure and profit, not by sound planning and certainly not by public safety. The community is being asked to absorb the risk while the developer reaps the reward. And for what? A project where only 10 percent of the units address moderate -income RHNA needs, while the overwhelming majority are market -rate apartments renting for roughly $3,000 to $5,500 a month. This is not a meaningful public benefit. It is overdevelopment dressed up as necessity. The project also fails the surrounding community in practical ways. Parking is inadequate. Overflow parking will spill into surrounding areas and burden local businesses. Access for seniors across the street is made worse, not better. And the City still has not completed its own wildfire evacuation study. Supporting this project before that study is complete is not responsible. It is reckless. As elected officials, you have a duty to protect the people who already live here. That duty is more important than accommodating a developer. More important than checking a planning box. More important than the dollars attached to it. These are the lives of District 6 residents. If you continue to support this project despite flawed evacuation assumptions, unresolved safety concerns, and overwhelming community opposition, then you are choosing to ignore the very risks you have already acknowledged on this same corridor. I am asking you to do the right thing. Reconsider your support. Withdraw it. Delay or deny this project until the evacuation analysis is corrected, the wildfire evacuation study is complete, and the public can be assured that safety is being treated as a requirement, not an afterthought. Anaheim Hills residents should not have to pay for this project with our safety, our businesses, our mobility, our peace of mind and the lives of ourfamilies. Sincerely, Teresa Hanly Anaheim, CA 92807 District 6 Date: 3/22/2026 9:56:06 PM From "Jordana Owens"M "Public Continent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I amwriting to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 rninutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/22/202611:14:57 PM Frog "KEIKO YONEKURA "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nonrrra C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldcntification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnahennHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the snake get closer, and literally not roving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is roving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Kay Yonekura Date: 3/23/2026 8:17:07 AM From "noreen francis" M "Public Conrnent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Logic and Safety: Why the Festival Center Project is a Mistake [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Mender, I amwriting to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. You don't need to be a traffic expert to see that Santa Ana Canyon Road is already at its limit. Most days, just getting to the store or work is a challenge. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation just doesn't pass the "common sense" test. The city's own reports admit that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. To then say that adding another 7 rninutes of delay is "not a big deal" is incredibly frustrating to those of us who live here. If a bucket is already overflowing, you don't keep pouring more water into it and say it's fine. By approving this, the city is basically admitting the evacuation plan is broken but choosing to make it even more crowded anyway. We need our leaders to look at the reality ofour streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out ofthe Hills, not more people trapped in them Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, NoreenjFrancis Date: 3/23/2026 8:34:49 AM From "Jennifer Backoff' To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Public Comment Regarding Proposed Apartment Development You don't often get ema> fro Learn whths is m12Lr ant 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 dressage. Dear board members, city officials and fellow residents, I have been a proud resident of East Anaheim for 21 years. I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed apartment building project currently under consideration. While I understand the need for growth, this development raises serious concerns about the negative impact it would have on our community. Increased traffic congestion, already strained infrastructure, and added pressure on parking, schools, and emergency services are just a few of the challenges this project would bring. Our neighborhood was not designed to support this level of density, and such a change could significantly affect the quality of life for long-time residents. Additionally, this project risks altering the character and safety of our community. East Anaheim has long been valued for its stability and sense of neighborhood, and this proposal threatens to disrupt that balance. I respectfully urge the board to carefully consider these concerns and the voices of residents who have invested decades into this community. Please do not move forward with this project without fully addressing its long- term impacts. Thank you for your time and consideration. Date: 3/23/2026 8:48:00 AM From: "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "caleon@anaheimnet" caleon@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Muti" To: NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimne4 "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anahe"net, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet "Indhira Y. Gagnon" IGagnona anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" Cc: publiecomnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: URGENT: Legal & Safety Opposition to Second Reading of Festival Anaheim Hills Project (EiR No. You don't often get emanl from Learn why this is important 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. To the Honorable Mayor and Council Members, I am writing to formally oppose the final adoption of the 447-unit project at the Anaheim Hills Festival site. The 4-3 vote on March 3rd was based on an incomplete and legally vulnerable record. We urge the Council to reverse its decision based on the following 1. Failure to Mitigate the Documented 24-Minute Evacuation Delay (not 14) According to EIR Appendix C (Responses to Written Comments), the City adnits this project results in a "potential extension of time to evacuate by approximately 24 minutes." In a wind -driven wildfire in a Very Haigh Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), a 24-minute delay is the difference between life and death Per SB 99 (2020) and Gov. Code § 65302(g)(5), the City is required to ensure residential developments in hazard areas have adequate evacuation routes. A $200,000 developer payment does not create a new road; it merely funds a plan to manage a gridlock that you are knowingly creating. 2.Onission of Regional "Shadow Traffic" and Bypass Volume The Traffic Analysis (Section 4.17) is fundamentally flawed because it ignores inter -city bypass volume. Fairmont Blvd and Weir Canyon serve as liftrury "shortcuts" for thousands of commrtcrs from Yoga Linda and the Inland Empire trying to avoid the 91 Freeway. This "shadow traffic" is not documented in local VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) studies but is a daily reality. Adding nearly 900 cars to a corridor that is already a regional relief valve is a direct violation of the General Plan Safety Element. 3. Economic Destabilization of the Home Insurance Market The Council has failed to study the project's impact on our cmmtling insurance market. With prerrm= in 92807/92808 already surging by 20- 30% this year, adding high -density units to a high -risk zone signals to carriers that the '!risk density' has exceeded safe limits. This project acts as a "tipping point" for mass insurance non -renewals, potentially rendering thousands of existing homes uninsurable and unsellable. 4. CEQA Inconsistency and Lack of Overriding Considerations The "Staterrerrt of Overriding Considerations" is invalid because the City has not exhausted feasible alternatives in safer, transit -rich areas Ike the Platinum Triangle. You are prioritizing developer convenience over the physical and financial survival ofyour constituents. Thank you to the council members who voted NO on 3/3 and for those that voted yes, please consider the facts above and Vote NO on March 24th Sincerely, Aung Win Anaheim), CA 92807 Date: 3/23/202610:45:13 AM From: "Myrna Nunez O'Shea" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" To: KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaz@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Urgent Appeal Regarding the Anaheim Hills Festival Center Apartment Development Some people who received this fnessage don't of get email from am mft this is 'mVortant 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. To the Mayor and Members of the Anaheim City Council, The recently approved apartment development at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center, passed by a narrow 4-3 vote, has left many of us alarmed and disheartened. While growth and housing access are worthy of civic pursuits, they must never come at the expense of public safety, infrastructure integrity, and the well-being of the residents who already call this area home. This project is projected to introduce at a minimum 700-900 additional vehicles onto our already burdened roadways. Those who traverse these streets daily understand all too well that they are not designed to absorb such an influx. Morning commutes are strained, school drop-offs are congested, and routine travel has become an exercise in patience rather than efficiency. To impose such a dramatic increase in traffic without meaningful infrastructure expansion is not progress, it's NEGLIGENCE. Most troubling, however, is the grave matter of emergency evacuation. During the last wildfire evacuation, residents endured waits of up to four harrowing hours to reach safety. Four hours in conditions where every minute can mean the difference between security and catastrophe. The addition of hundreds more vehicles would transform an already perilous situation into one of unacceptable risk. No housing initiate should compromise a community's ability to escape danger swiftly and safety. Especially when it can be avoided. Infrastructure must precede expansion, not scramble to catch it. The present road capacity, traffic flow systems, and emergency egress routes are simply not equipped to support development of this magnitude. Responsible governance demands foresight, prudence, and a commitment to safeguarding constituents above all else. I therefore implore the Council to reconsider, halt, or substantially revise this project until comprehensive traffic mitigation, infrastructure expansion, and emergency evacuation safeguards are demonstrably in place. The approved 'Wildfire Evacuation Study' seems drafted to satisfy paperwork rather than to ensure the timely preservation of human life. Not to mention it remains unreleased We are not opposed to thoughtful development. We are opposed to preventable harm, foreseeable gridlock, and decisions that endanger families for the sake of expediency. It would also be prudent to recognize that Anaheim Hills is home to an exceptionally engages and civically attentive population. Residents here follow municipal decisions with care, participate consistently in local elections and maintain a long institutional memory regarding the actions of their elected representatives. Communities such as ours tend to express their perspectives not with spectacle, but with quiet resolve and meaningful participation when ballots are cast. I trust the Council appreciates the significance of that distinction. I urge you to stand with your residents, to exercise civic courage, and to ensure that growth in Anaheim remains both responsible and humane. Myrna O'Shea Concerned Resident, Anaheim Hills Date: 3/23/202610:50:23 AM From "Alli Valdivia" To: "Public Continent" publiccomrnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] festival project You don't oiien get email from L.cam why this is important Wan ft: This entail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. March 23, 2026 Dear Mayor Aitken and Council Members, First off; Thank you to Mayor Aiken, Natalie Meeks and Kristen Maahs for voting the festival project down The Anaheim Hills Residents have vigorously tried to inform you of the realities of our impossible situation here with traffic and specifically during fire evacuations. We have stated facts of actual horrific fire evacuation experiences we have had. We have sent pictures of the daily gridlock at all times of day through the hills. We have pleaded, begged and sometimes acted out of character trying to be heard and understood. The March 3rd vote showed us many of you just have no common sense or sincerly just don't care because we aren't in "your District". Council woman Norma Campos Kurtz made it quite clear she doesn't care at all about us. Her comments at the March 3rd vote were shocking. Of course every district has the chance of fire. But is her district surrounded on all sides by dry wild brush? Does she think her districts residents are so dumb that they can't see the difference? She speaks out of ignorance and I'm dumbfounded how a person with her lack of common sense sits on this council. I'm also wondering how a vote was even taken prior to the Wildfire evacuation study being released. The March 3rd meeting seemed skewed in many ways. It appeared staged and planned. There are just too many unanswered questions and possible unethical business tactics within this city. I wonder why it isn't addressed that Salt will also probably build in the hills under the Builders Remedy act. So now what???? Our homes and lifes have fallen into your hands. DO THE RIGHT THING.... Stop this insanity. Allison Valdivia Date: 3/23/202612:15:06 PM From "keHy bluemel" To: "Public Conmmitt" publiccornrnent(kanahei nnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] No Apartments [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at httns://aka.rns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This errail 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 stop the development ofnew apartments in Anaheim Hills!!!! The traffic at the last fire was crazy! It took me two hours to go two riles. It is unsafe for all involved. Kelly Bluemel Anaheim Hills Resident Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/23/202612:42:59 PM From "Janie Picco" To: "Public Comment" publicconarrnt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] New Apartments in Festival Center You don't often get emnail fro Learn wh�miportant 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 mtressage. To whom it may concern, Due to the rapid increase of traffic over the past year on Serrano and Weir Canyon because of vehicles trying to avoid the 91 freeway, I am against new apartments being built in the Festival Center. This will only cause fiAher issues for the current residents of Anaheim Hills if there are an additional 400+ new apartrnent units, which would add over 700 more vehicles. Please take our current residents into consideration first before allowing this to happen Sincerely, Janie Picco From: Mary Heistand Sent: Monday, March 23, 2026 12:44 PM To: Public Comment <publiccomment@anaheim.net> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival Center project You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. As I am unable to attend the City Council tomorrow, I would like to express my opposition to the project at the Festival Center. We remember the past fires in our area and the difficulties in evacuation. Santa Ana Canyon Road and the 91 freeway already operate under heavy congestion. This is about evacuation times and every additional vehicle matters. We appreciate all measures the city of Anaheim has taken, but the evacuation plan is not enough. Also, the wildfire evacuation study being conducted by the city is not complete. Traffic issues must be addressed before more housing is built. There is also the question as to whether labor negotiations influenced the approval earlier this month. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where safe evacuation is compromised. Please prioritize the safety of the people who already live here. Thank you for considering public Mary Heistand Resident of The Highlands Development-92808 since 1996 Date: 3/23/2026 12:57:15 PM Ftonr "Jen McCool" To: "Public Coninent" publicconunent�ir)) naheimnet Subject: [EXT'ERNAL] Urgent Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim. Teo not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. i wanted to touch in a few things i sill can not seem to get an answer on and also touch on district 3 that might need assistance as well in her area We're here to help each other. Our streets are absolute gridlock daily. As time goes on our streets are the entrance to the IE that will already get worse as we have seen. We have not addressed our neighboring cities as they use same streets we do to evacuate. In the last meeting there was a city rep who commented on our wide streets with shoulders I'll be honest that does not exist here. I would lice you to address a current problem before we create another. Our emergency personal Can not respond several hours of the day without delay. We have people creating additional lanes on freeway and driving backwards off the on -ramps. In a fire situation in any other district you could escape on foot not here in the hills the last wind in early March blew out windows in panda across the way and a neighboring home. Not so funny story in my last condo off Serrano I used to sleep on the closet floor as the entire place shook and it was commen to loose glass in the wind and the force and noise is terrible. In our last fire I was hit with a fire tornado and crawled on the ground to get back feeling around for a handle to escape smoke at my home. I will attach the daily traffic that does not move and even now in the event of any situation we're in big trouble you can't move traffic that's locked up for hours. This is around 3/4:00 during week but starts around noon goes till 11 pm at times. We share same streets as the entire IE traffic and YL as well as VP and OPA, what are your coordination efforts with them as Anaheim can not act independently on this? Last picture was during a fire no one moves at all we're not talking traffic we're talking stuck in cars. The traffic above was 20 or so lights to let a few cars through each time because freeway and traffic through to YL was also complete stopped. We are becoming the bottleneck that gets trapped most hours of the day we can not add to this situation. Please help us fa this then we can look at developments or in other locations lice off lakeview that adds places but does not add to the situation or put peoples lives at risk ap 14 -- e 9001 Anaheim Hills Buzz - R.—ic p-b-t u 91 West entrants at W elr Canyon road... Complete parking lot at the moment. ray r, ONE, jw ii� - - �lw Date: 3/23/20261:33:30 PM From: "egroch" "Public Comment" publiecommentCanaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken a�anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheim.net, "Ryan Balius" RBaliusCqanaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava a,anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about the Festival Center Project and Wildfire Safety You don't often get email from �. Learn why this is important 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. Dear Council Member, I moved to Anaheim Hills because it is a beautiful, family -oriented community, but I am very concerned about the proposed Shea/Festival Center apartment project. Since moving here, I've learned that our neighborhood is in a high -risk fire zone with very limited ways to get out. I was shocked to read that it already takes over three hours to evacuate this area during an emergency. Adding over 1,000 more people and their cars to our streets seems like a huge risk to everyone's safety. The project's environmental report admits that these new apartments will make evacuation times even longer. As a parent, I think about what would happen if a fire broke out while I was trying to get my [kids/pets/elderly parents] to safety. If the roads are alreadyfailing, adding hundreds more cars into the mixwill make a bad situation impossible. It feels like the city is hoping forthe best rather than planning for the worst. I am not against new housing in general, but it has to be built in the right places. Putting high -density housing at a known bottleneck in a fire zone is not responsible. I am asking you to please put our safetyfirst and vote "No" on this project until we have a real solution for getting people out of the Hills safely. Sincerely, Eleanor Roch Date: 3/23/20261:40:34 PM From "The Daily EDDIE" To: "Public Continent" publiccomrmnt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about Festival center project and wild fire safety... You don't often get email from Learn wbthiis is uportant 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. Dear Council Member, I roved to Anaheim Hills because it is a beautifid, family -oriented comnnmity, but I am very concerned about the proposed Shea/Festival Center apartrr ent project. Since moving here, I've learned that our neighborhood is in a highrisk fire zone with very limited ways to get out. I was shocked to read that it already takes over three hours to evacuate this area during an errmergency. Adding over 1,000 more people and their cars to our streets seems Ike a huge risk to everyone's safety. The projects environnental report adn-As that these new apamtments will make evacuation tinrns even longer. As a parent I think about what would happen if a fire broke out while I was trying to get my [kids/pets/elderly parents] to safety. If the roads are already failing, adding hundreds more cars into the nrix will make a bad situation impossible. It feels like the city is hoping for the best rather than planning for the worst. I am not against new housing in general, but it has to be built in the rig& places. Putting high density housing at a known bottleneck in afire zone is not responsible. I am asking you to please put our safety first and vote 'No" on this project until we have a real solution for getting people out of the Hills safely. Date: 3/23/2026 2:28:24 PM From "Justin Wood"M "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurU2*anaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Shea/Festival Center Project Due to Evacuation Risk Some people who received this message don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Dear Council Member, I am a resident of Anaheim Hills, and I chose this community because it felt like a safe place to raise my family. I have two young children, and the thought of trying to evacuate them during a wildfire is something I take very seriously. I drive these roads every day, and they already back up under normal conditions. Knowing that evacuation from this area can already take hours is alarming on its own. Adding a project that brings in over 1,000 additional residents and significantly more traffic will make an already dangerous situation worse. What is most concerning is that this is not speculative —the project's own environmental report acknowledges increased evacuation times. That means the risk is known ahead of time, yet the project is still being considered. I am not opposed to housing, but this is the wrong place for high -density development. Approving this project would mean knowingly increasing evacuation risk for existing residents and families. For that reason, I strongly urge you to vote no on the Shea/Festival Center apartment project. Sincerely, Justin and Roshanak Wood Date: 3/23/2026 3:02:39 PM From "Lolly Garcia" To: "Public Connuent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet Cc: "Lolly Garcia' Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to 447-Unit Apartment Project in Anaheim H'ills You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important 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 strongly oppose the construction of the proposed 447-unit apartment project in our Anaheim Hills community. This development is not appropriate for our neighborhood and will place a serious strain on our roads, safety, and overall quality of life. Adding hundreds of new units will bring an estimated 700-900 additional vehicles, worsening already congested traffic and creating dangerous conditions especially during emergencies. Past evacuations have already taken hours; increasing density at this scale puts residents at real risk. Our infrastructure was not designed to support a project of this magnitude. This is about protecting the safety, well-being, and character of our conmgnity. I respectfully urge the City Council to listen to its residents and oppose the construction of this apartment project in Anaheim Hills. Anaheim Hulls Resident Date: 3/23/2026 3:04:43 PM From "Mindy Cameron" To: "Public Comment" publiccomnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim Hills Festival Apartment project meeting 3/24/26 [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at ht_pt s://aka.rrs/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This ernail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. To whomit may concern, I amwriting to voice rrry concern/opposition over a proposal to build a 447 unit apartment complexon property within the Anaheim Hills Festival, or for that matter, any project that large, in any part of Fast Anaheim Hills where we have a high fire danger. I have lived here for over 20 years, and have personally been evacuated on several occasions. In the past, when the winds/fires come to Weir Canyon/Fast Anaheim Hills area, we have little time to evacuate. Residents from this area end up on the roads all at once, causing traffic to come to a standstill. It's already dangerous. More cars on the road in this area could be disastrous, and potentially cause loss of life for people trying to evacuate the area. Please reconsider/deny this project. Thank you, Melinda Cameron Fast Anaheim Hills resident Sent frommy Whone Date: 3/23/2026 3:09:19 PM From: "Todd Moeller" To: "Public Comment" pubHccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition To 447-Unit Apartment Project in Anaheim Mils You don't often get etra> fro Learn �& ths is h=ortant 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. To whom it may concern. I Strongly oppose the construction of the 447 - Unit apartment project in Anaheim Hills due to serious concerns about safety, traffic, evacuation risks, destroying the beautiful hills. It's called Anaheim Hills for a reason. It will also deteriate the community as a hole. Stop the build. Thank you, Todd Date: 3/23/2026 3:37:55 PM From: "John Levi" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheim net Subject: [EXTERNAL] Vote Noon 447 Unit Apartment Complex for Safety of Anaheim Hills Community You don't often get email fro Learn wh�maportant 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. You mist in good conscience vote NO on the 447 Unit Apartment Complex at Anaheim Hills Festival Center. Wildfire danger and safe evacuation mast take priority over rmving forward with this project. Unfortunately, Anaheim Hills does not have the existing road infiastructure to safely handle the additional vehicles that would need to evacuate during the next fire emergency. Do not let Anaheim Hills residents be the next Maui fire tragedy!! Vote No on this project. Sincerely, John F. Levi Anaheim Hills resident since 1997 I and my bm* have evacuated 3 times due to wildfire. We bad horries bun down on Morningstar Drive in our neighborhood. In the Anaheim Hills area, homes on Morningstar Drive were primarily destroyed during the Freeway Complex Fire in November 2008. At least five homes in the 600 block of Morningstar Drive burned to the ground when the firestorm raced uphill and overtook the neighborhood. Sent from nry Thone Date: 3/23/2026 3:43:12 PM From "nibiAe To: "Public Commnt" publicconiment(kanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim apartment complex [You don't often get email from- Learn why this is important at his://aka.nis/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Waming: This ernail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Strongly disagree with the budding ofthe apartment complex in Anaheim Hills. Sent from my iPhone Date: 3/23/2026 3:44:04 PM From: "Alan Burke" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheim.net Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim hills apartment proposal You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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 strongly oppose the addition of an apartment complex in Anaheim lA. We do not want it ! ! Sent from AOL on Android Date: 3/23/2026 4:41:41 PM From: "Linda" — "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurfz*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue You don't often get emaff from Learn why this is important 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim to ask you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling of being stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic" —it was a total standstill The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ rnore people to that exact same escape route is terrifying to those of us who have actually been in that situation The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation tirm. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is mmving toward you, 7 minutes is a Wetirre. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out ofthe Hills; we all end up on the sarre few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck doing a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen I understand that the city needs housing bit it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already straggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Linda Loveng Date: 3/23/2026 4:55:33 PM From "Linda" To: "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken(i7�anaheim.net Cc: "Public Conmrent" publiccornmenteqanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival project 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 am writing to formally state my total loss of faith in this body. With the exception of Council Member Maahs, the Mayor and a begrudging vote by Council Member Meeks, you are nuking a clear and dangerous choice between political patronage and human lives. The public is not blind to the optics of this vote. We see a massive development being pushed forward where support is predicated on a (PLA), while documented, life -threatening safety risks are ignored. In a city still reeling from the 2024 JL Group Investigative Report, which exposed a culture of"backroom deals" and "cabal -like" control over land -use decisions, it is staggering that you would prioritize a labor deal over a three - plus hour fire evacuation delay. Councilmember Rubalcava was specifically named in that investigation regarding questionable political maneuvers. To now predicate a vote on a union agreement while dismissively labeling our evacuation plan as "fluid" is a textbook example of the pay -to -play politics the FBI has already flagged in this chamber. A "fluid" evacuation plan is a direct CEQA violation You cannot legally approve a project in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone based on a "fluid" concept. There is no conprehensive plan because the existing infrasnuctuce cannot physically accommdate a safe exit for the current residents, let aknre aie new ones you intend to add. The "Happiest Place on Earth" deserves a Council that values resident survival over political schenes. Ifyou vote Yes tomorrow, you are choosing a union contract over the lives of the people you were elected to protect. Shame on you. Linda Hurley Date: 3/23/2026 7:03:04 PM From: "Rosario Ruiz" To: "Public Coninent" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival project You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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 am for the new developiwnt at the festival project. Thank you Rosario Ruiz Date: 3/23/2026 7:47:57 PM From: "Brenda Neel"M "Public Comment" publiecommentCanaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" To: AAitken@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubaleava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "cleon@anajeimnet" cleon@anajeimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@,anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaz@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival Development proposal You don't often get email from Learn why this is important Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click finks or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Good evening, I am writing to you regarding the proposed Festival development proposal. It is not only disappointing but shocking to think that the safety of thousands of residents is not a priority to many of you. Having lived through most of the major fires in the Anaheim Hills area and suffered the time delays to get to loved ones, I know first-hand this proposed development would be a death trap for the residents closest to the area. I purchased my first home in Anaheim Hills because it was a clean and safe area for me and my daughter. Now, with the already increased traffic on Santa Ana Canyon between Imperial and Weir Canyon, the increase in car fumes, people running lights and taking 30-45 minutes just to get to the other end of town has destroyed the peace, beauty and safety of our area. I cannot begin to think of the deaths and mayhem that would occur when the next fire occurs and there are 1000+ extra cars in the area. Thank you for clarifying the following: What deliberation took place to address the concerns of resident? What was the process and what was the outcome to prove that this was a good idea and residents could safely evacuate. On any given day at 5 pm., it currently takes 20-30 minutes to go 2.8 miles to Target, can't imagine if ther was a fire. How can residents be assured that community safetywas prioritized in the final outcome? Are the safety studies used, tested evacuation routes and financial interests available and transparent for residents to access? I am saddened to see Anaheim Hills become a community where profits are placed above residents' safety and well-being. I firmly request reconsideration around this project be made. Thank you for your time, Brenda Neel Date: 3/23/2026 7:58:47 PM From "Payal Patel"_ "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Non= C. Kurtz" NKurb2*anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Concerns about the Festival Center Project and Wildfire Safety [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at his://aka.rrs/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Member, I moved to Anaheim Hills because it is a beautiful, family -oriented corrimnity, but I am very concerned about the proposed Shea/Festival Center apartment project. Since moving here, I've learned that our neighborhood is in a high -risk fire zone with very limited ways to get out. i was shocked to read that it already takes over three hours to evacuate this area during an emergency. Adding over 1,000 more people and their cars to our streets seems like a huge risk to everyone's safety. The project's environmental report admits that these new apartments will make evacuation times even longer. As a parent, I think about what would happen if a fire broke out while I was trying to get my [kids/pets/elderly parents] to safety. Ifthe roads are already failing, adding hundreds more cars into the m ixwill make a bad situation impossible. It feels like the city is hoping for the best rather than planning for the worst. I amnot against new housing in general, but it has to be built in the right places. Putting high -density housing at a known bottleneck in a fire zone is not responsible I am asking you to please put our safety first and vote "No" on this project until we have a real solution for getting people out of the Hills safely. Sincerely, Payal Patel Date: 3/23/2026 8:55:32 PM From "S Puskas" To: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim Hills You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Vote NO save Anaheim H>iHs a no vote is a responsible vote ! Date: 3/23/2026 9:21:23 PM From: "Patty Fitzjerrells"O "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Ballus" To: RBalius@anaheim.net, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurk &anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Public Conrnent" publiccomnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim Hills to ask you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Bills Festival Center. I have lived here over 30 years and during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the nightmare feeling of being stuck in my car, watching the smoke get dangerously closer, and literally not moving for over an hour. It wasn't just'Vaffic"—it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that enact same escape route is absolutely terrifying to those of us who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 long minutes to the evacuation time. But when youre already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a mvghtnure and tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already desperately strugft to get out safely. Please don't nuke an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to please prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Patricia Fitzjerrells Sent from my Mione Date: 3/23/2026 9:40:38 PM From: "Danielle Gorsha" "Public Comrent" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerkganaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" To: AAitken@anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahsganaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaz@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] SR-91 freeway is projected to see a 50% increase in traffic by 2035 - Please vote NO on Festival Center You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Since the AnaheimHills fire evacuation route is the 91 freeway, are firture traffic projections being considered when voting on new housing developments? Here's a snapshot of the 5-and 10-year traffic projections: Significant increases in traffic are expected on SR-91 over the next decade. The 91 Freeway is already one of California's most congested corridors, carrying roughly 280,000-300,000 vehicles per day in the mid-2010s. Projections indicate that daily traffic will continue to grow. For example, one analysis forecasts daily traffic on the Riverside County portion of SR-91 could exceed 400,000 trips by 2035 — roughly a 30% increase over mid-2010s levels. In Orange County, average daily volumes are likewise projected to jump by 90,000 trips (over 30% growth) by 2035. This translates to traffic volumes roughly 50% higher in 2035 than today (on the order of 420,000 vehicles a day) according to the Riverside County Transportation Comanission In the nearer term (-5 years), the corridor will remain at or above capacity: by 2030 the SR-91 is expected to carry only a few percent more vehicles than today in peak hours (since it's already saturated), even as travel demand keeps rising. Local officials note that newhousing development mandates across Southern California are adding more commuters to the region, which will likely pit additional can on the 91 freeway each year. In short, without major intervention, both the 5- year and 10-year outlooks show heavier traffic on SR-91 than we see now. Hello, I'm a 26-yr resident of Anaheim Halls. I own a rental commpany, and my team and I drive throughout West Anaheim 7 days a week, from 6 am to midnight. West Anaheim traffic is exceptionally well rnanaged, and I rarely encounter gridlock, even during busy events at the convention center just outside Disneyland. On the other hand, our traffic in Anaheim Hills has increased significantly. Imperial, Santa Ana Canyon, Weir Canyon and Serrano are undrivable during marry hours of the day. My entrance to the 91 West should be Imperial, but it is gridlocked 90% of the tirre, and Google recomrrends entering at Lakeview. Exiting Imperial from the 91 has become complete gridlock 75% of the tirrre I travel through it, and I can rarely even turn onto Santa Ana Carryon Google recomrr ends exiting at Linco"ohl Ranch about 50% of to time. Anaheim Hulls serves as a bypass to drivers trying to avoid the 55 and 91 freeways. SR-91 freeway is projected to see a 50% increase in traffic by 2035. (US Dept ofTransporationl • WHAT is being done to mitigate this? • WHY are new developments being considered before infrastructure re is deemed to be adequate? • WHY is the safety of Anaheim residents in a VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD Done being disregarded? • It's illogical and irresponsible to consider adding 450-500 units, which will translate to 1000+ more cars. I encourage the council to: • Delay or decry the Festival project until traffic mitigation and evacuation improvements are made. • Explore alternative locations or smaller developments. The out-of-state developer should not be a higher priority than your own residents. Tban ks for your time, Danielle Gorsha Date: 3/23/202611:21:53 PM From "Andrew Wmger" "City Attorney" cityattorneysoffice@anahehnnet, "Theresa Bass" TBass@anaheimnet, "Public Corramnt" To: publicconment@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius(g),anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Request for Review— Recusal of Councilmember Rubalcava (Festival Project DEV2023-00043) Attachment: Request —for Recusal Final Numbered.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. Dear City Attorney, Attached for your review is a formal Request for Recusal concerning Councilrnember Natalie Rubalcava in connection with the Festival Proj ect (DEV2023-00043). The request outlines a documented sequence of events including campaign contributions, public statements during hearings, involvern enrt in labor - related discussions, and subsequent actions --that collectively raise substantial concerns regarding the appearance of bias and prejudgwnrt in this nutter. As detailed in the attached filing, these concerns are grounded in publicly available records and relevant legal standards governing impartial decisions -making in quasi -adjudicative proceedings. Given the in portannce of maintaining both actual fairness and public confidence in the integrity of the City's decisionrrrsaking process, I respectfislly request that your office review the attached materials and provide guidance regarding whether recusal is warranted. Please confirm receipt of this submission I am available to provide any additional infonr ation or documentation if needed. Thank you for your tirre and consideration Respectfi* Andrew Winger CITY OF ANAHEIM CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUEST REQUEST FOR RECUSAL Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava RE: Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) Submitted By: Andrew Winger Date: March 23, 2026 Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 1 of 30 RE: Request for Recusal of Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava — Festival Project (DEV2023- 00043) Dear City Attorney, I write to respectfully request that your office evaluate and advise that Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava recuse herself from any further participation in matters relating to the Festival Project (DEV2023-00043), based on a documented sequence of events that creates a substantial appearance of bias and prejudgment, and raises serious concerns regarding the integrity of the decision -making process. This request is grounded in publicly available records, statements made during City Council proceedings, and subsequent actions taken in connection with the project. I. Relevant Timeline and Facts 1. Campaign Contribution from Union -Affiliated Entity On October 23, 2025, Councilmember Rubalcava reported receiving a $2,500 campaign contribution from "Building a Stronger California," an entity associated with the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters. 2. Direct Involvement in Union Negotiations During Public Hearing (January 13, 2026) During the January 13, 2026 City Council meeting, Councilmember Rubalcava: Questioned whether the developer was negotiating with the Carpenters in "good faith" Criticized specific terms of the proposed MOU Directed the developer to "go and talk to the carpenters and figure something out before we move forward" She further indicated that her vote could determine whether the project would be approved. These actions reflect direct engagement in the substance and outcome of private negotiations between the developer and a specific labor organization. 3. Delay of Project Consideration to Facilitate Further Negotiations Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 2 of 30 Councilmember Rubalcava moved to continue the matter so that the parties could "work together," while gesturing between the developer and the Carpenters Union. On February 3, 2026, the item was formally continued to March 3, 2026 at the request of the applicant, at which time no agreement had yet been reached. 4. Post -Hearing Coordination On January 26, 2026, a call took place involving Councilmember Rubalcava, the developer, and representatives of the Carpenters Union. 5. Execution of Union Agreement Immediately Prior to Final Vote On February 26, 2026, the developer entered into a formal agreement with the Carpenters Union. City staff confirmed on March 3, 2026: "While the City can encourage the developer to do so, the City cannot require a developer to use union labor... however, the applicant confirmed... they have entered into a formal agreement..." 6. Approval Following Agreement On March 3, 2026, following confirmation that the union agreement had been reached, the City Council approved the project. II. Legal Standard: Impartial Decision -Making and Appearance of Bias California law is clear that administrative decision -makers must be both actually impartial and appear impartial. In BreakZone Billiards v. City of Torrance, the court held that due process is violated where there is an "unacceptable probability of actual bias", even absent proof of actual wrongdoing. Similarly, in Woody's Group, Inc. v. City of Newport Beach, the court emphasized that a fair hearing is compromised where a decision -maker demonstrates prejudgment or alignment with one side of a dispute prior to the final decision. Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 3 of 30 The California Supreme Court in Nasha LLC v. City of Los Angeles further reinforced that while local officials may express views, they cross the line when their conduct reflects that the outcome is effectively predetermined or that they are no longer functioning as neutral arbiters. Additionally, in Clark v. City of Hermosa Beach, the court found that bias may be inferred where an official's conduct demonstrates active participation in advancing one side's interests in the underlying matter. III. Application to the Present Facts Applying these principles, the record here reflects: • A financial contribution from a union -affiliated entity • Direct, substantive involvement in negotiations with that same union • Statements linking project approval to the outcome of those negotiations • A delay of the vote to allow negotiations to proceed • Participation in communications with both parties during that period • Final approval following execution of the union agreement Taken together, these facts create, at minimum, an "unacceptable probability of bias" under BreakZone Billiards and a strong appearance that the outcome was contingent upon a specific negotiated result. This is not merely the expression of policy preference —it reflects active engagement in the underlying negotiations and conditional decision -making, which is inconsistent with the role of a neutral adjudicator. IV. Federal Labor Law Considerations While this request is grounded in recusal and due process, the facts also implicate principles underlying federal labor law, including the doctrine articulated in Lodge 76, International Association of Machinists v. Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission, which prohibits governmental interference in areas intended to be left to the "free play of economic forces." The appearance that project approval was tied to the outcome of a labor agreement raises additional concerns regarding the propriety of governmental involvement in private labor negotiations. Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 4 of 30 V. Request for Action In light of the foregoing, I respectfully request that the City Attorney's Office: 1. Review the record and applicable law 2. Provide formal guidance regarding Council member Rubalcava's obligation to recuse herself 3. Take appropriate steps to ensure that further proceedings are conducted by a decision - maker free from the appearance of bias VI. Conclusion The integrity of the City's decision -making process depends not only on actual fairness, but on the public's confidence in that fairness. Where the totality of the circumstances reflects a substantial appearance of bias or prejudgment, recusal is not only appropriate —it is necessary. Respectfully submitted, Andrew Winger Attachments: Exhibit A —Timeline of public records Exhibit B — Direct quotes from City Council Meetings Exhibit C - $2500 Campaign Contribution on 10/23/2S from Building a Stronger California Exhibit D — Building a Stronger California is sponsored by the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters Exhibit E — Rubalcava calendar on 1/26/26 showing meeting with Developer and Carpenter's Union Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 5 of 30 :ifI-XvGl Timeline of Relevant Events — Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) October 23, 2025 — Campaign Contribution [Exhibit C] • Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava reported receiving a $2,500 campaign contribution from Building a Stronger California, an entity associated with the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters [Exhibit D]. January 13, 2026 — City Council Public Hearing (Timestamped Record) • Review [Exhibit B] for direct quotes 6:06:26 • Councilmember Rubalcava references negotiations with the Carpenters Union and asks about the MOU. 6:07:58 • She questions whether the developer is negotiating with the Carpenters Union in "good faith." 6:08:30 She states that her vote could determine whether the project is approved. • She advises the developer to reconsider whether they will reach an agreement with "skilled and trained" labor (contextually referring to the Carpenters Union). 6:09:39 • She directs the developer to: "go and talk to the carpenters and figure something out before we move forward." 6:42:50 • During discussion of legality, she states that even if federal law is implicated, proceeding could result in litigation, but the Council could still act. Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 6 of 30 January 13, 2026 — Motion to Continue 6:46:52 • Councilmember Rubalcava makes a motion to continue the item to allow reconsideration of the development agreement. 6:52:36 • She clarifies the intent of the delay, indicating the developer and Carpenters Union should "work together," accompanied by gestures between the parties. January 26, 2026 — Post -Hearing Communication • [Exhibit E] • A call took place involving: o Councilmember Rubalcava o Developer representatives o Carpenters Union representatives February 3, 2026 — Continued Hearing (Timestamped Record) • Review [Exhibit B] for direct quotes 5:26:33 • Mayor states that the item will be continued to March 3, 2026 at the request of the applicant. • At this time, no union agreement had been reached. February 26, 2026 — Execution of Union Agreement • The developer entered into a formal agreement with the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters. Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 7 of 30 March 3, 2026 — Final City Council Vote (Timestamped Record) Review [Exhibit B] for direct quotes 5:11:19 City staff states: The City cannot require union labor, but confirms the applicant entered into a formal agreement with the Carpenters Union on February 26, 2026. March 3, 2026 — Project Approval Following confirmation of the union agreement, the City Council approved the Festival Project. End of Exhibit A Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 8 of 30 EXHIBIT B Verbatim Statements from City Council Meetings with Timestamps Festival Project (DEV2023-00043) January 13, 2026 — City Council Meeting 6:06:26 "So my question is related to the skilled and trained. So you mentioned that you don't just look at the low bid when you're looking at subcontractors. Can you give me some clarification on what your proposal for the MOU entailed to the Carpenters?" 6:07:58 "So I, I, question whether you were negotiating with the Carpenters in good faith when you provided an MOU. It's not a good deal in my opinion for you to say that you have to be within $500,000 of the lowest bidder because you could get anybody to bid a low bid." 6:08:30 "So I guess there's clearly you don't know what direction this council is going to go in because I still don't know how I'm going to vote and potentially my vote could lead to whether or not you get this project approved." 6:09:05 "But I don't think you really know whether or not what direction this council's going to go. So, I think you should think really deeply as to whether or not you're going to have an MOU that includes our skilled and trade, especially because they're not being unreasonable with the expectations. It's for a parking structure and drywall." 6:09:39 Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 9 of 30 "So I would really, you know, think deeply as to whether or not you are negotiating in good faith and what that MOU looks like. And today we do have the discretion with this development agreement to include some of those requirements without the language that you're proposing because it's not a good deal. So I, 1, don't know who motivated you to kind of throw it their way and say 'Well, we are negotiating with you, but you're not.' So I mean, I don't really need your feedback on that. I need you to go and talk to the carpenters and figure something out before we move forward. So you don't have to comment. It was more of a comment on my end. But thank you." 6:42:50 "So you'll be in litigation for a while. I think you're kind of missing the point. So I [unintelligible]... but it's 11:00 at night right now, and I hear what you're saying about the Supreme Court's ruling and federal law. However, this is a municipality and we have discretion with this." (Following interruption) "But if we decide as a council that we're going to include that in the development agreement, then that just means you'll be stuck in litigation. And it'll cost you more instead of just hiring skilled and trained." 6:46:52 "I hate to make this recommendation because we've sat through so many hours of public comment, but may I make a motion to continue this until they have an opportunity to go back and take a close look at the development agreement based on the feedback that we've provided." 6:52:36 "I was going to make the recommendation for give you some time and you guys some time to work together." [Gestures towards the Developer and Carpenter's union to move together] February 3, 2026 — City Council Meeting Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 10 of 30 5:26:33 "So, um, I'm going to forward and move on to item number 10 at the request of the applicant. Item 10 is being continued to the meeting of March 3rd. Is there a motion to continue?" March 3, 2026 — City Council Meeting 5:11:19 "Lastly, council members also discussed the possibility of requiring the developer to use union labor during the construction of the project. While the city can encourage the developer to do so, the city cannot require a developer to use union labor as part of the development agreement negotiations. However, the applicant confirmed to staff on February 26th that they have entered into a formal agreement with the Western States Regional Carpenters Union relating to the project." End of Exhibit B Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 11 of 30 EXHIBIT C $2,500 Campaign Contribution (October 23, 2025) Description: This exhibit contains documentation of the $2,500 campaign contribution reported by Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava on October 23, 2025 from Building a Stronger California. Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 12 of 30 L1 U d rr W O U �a aF—ff cu O N \ CD ui O N W O 00 E m O cn CO C.) r AC M y W •� CL a) L E �vE>a GD M O 'O W U U �2equestfor W co w w w Of z O CO z O U D Cl) z LO m c � o a E a — a) LL c � m Ot E 2 U } Q.2 Om a7 ¢ (n C T O E a) m 2E3 0-0 ryO Q j; V c%) U U C O co E o _ + F- -0 C O C O C C E m Ev a E m 65 o w N U U LL co C C 0 O a) a) N c w a O N E 4) aU ❑IE❑ ❑ N m w N z N O I S o a d' W u ❑ o of a w o p rn d N <I U w Q W U U W K � p U ¢ p ¢ W Q J w � Q j U Q r m U W CO ¢ LU LUvi Q `2 LU Q' X ¢ L d ~ N ❑ Q CO ¢ ❑ Q LL N O rt C7 ro J O (7 J z fC w U J > W J } O H z z Q o a) cu a) m N C N p — 0 _ m �j E w a a) o a E -. a)O C tm E a)a `O EUa `m !0 O m LL m O N y O d LL -O d a W to �. c CO n E >, a s c� m 0 C c E O E O V� o -2° � Z c E d000¢ .E Q`O¢ o U - u ❑ ❑ u W N N f - Eaoi Q U 'E ¢ Eo N u a) u N m CD E UO E U O O V o a) m E O f6 U c �, a m w -o a)< E 0 o a) E c C N h U � C Q' U a 'a)�O 0 a�i c u C u U) c o as o O v E m m :a r u O °U'cn� o ��UQ E F Q. 0 00 ¢ (OD 000 E O ` ❑x ❑ V MI 3-23-26 Page 13 of 3V X O m O a O z Cl) U w ❑ ❑ w w w m WLn rn Z N O N 2 I Q o O U W c 0 Ln O ❑ c O o m O o U of U r- N N rn O a N N K O F U U F Z, 'E a) U ai m C, E 0 m 2 N a) N 0 U S U) U) _0 O L a) O 76 a L 0 0 C � c o 0 N c C � � a) 0 ~ O t m a` 0 0 � 0 m O ) U N (n C N Ui O v 16 O -p E m O 3 U 0 U) o V U CD ro O) ' o U a) U c (o o Y U T U o U) U V) ro o a) n n .0 m a z Z 2 0 N m m 01 C C O O C O) a) 2 E a)aa) � O > m 2U O CO ,0, 0) ,05 `m a) a:E N "- o 0 a N N N C 3 N m N m U 0, C,\ 0 C N M Cl) � N N N \ \ N o 0 a a) c m m c NU) a) ami ° 0 0 _ — O m m O m .T 5 5 ++ o m v � c w w WCD tit cu'0 -C C: n o N M lC C u7 U f3 r U N Q O t c 3 E o 3 o Ep LL M U U a u a Q- LL w�1 V U cu 0 00 00 0 0. 0 0 0 0 N 0 w w U a IL LL � E E 0 U k ) � m E 0 > E a \} /± SS \ 0 z 0 \ \ z b Cl) 0 mk ( % . g � � § f \ +§ + \ m .. 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O O 7 = p CC m to L 0 a�i CO U U O + U L H m Z OU @ O O J _ J m 0 C Z O� O uM 3-23�26 N (Rag,6 1 brbf m d y is 0 ) J m 'O c 6s 60, (� C w E Q Ws N > o �+ i to UV W-�p r ram+ N O E X R W U M O M O O M bl O Ol O O Ol ER ER EA M O M O O M M o M o o M N N M R co M In O O N + N N J J h J J O) LL 2 U co m Q) a ¢ U U J U U co co co c/) a U) mLU 0 z m d W Q ? ELU t4 N 0 ~ _ U) y Q Lu _0 J x o- a� O -a o c W E co L Co E Q 4% M p L) O O Q J (n Q Z Q W C9 N 0 E m E O a� ° co�co 0 m N T a ° CO C 7 a) '] O O) Q O O O a) -O ,L... m 7 �EEEoa) (D Em U O O) CO a) m N o°�- .c C E E E 0 0-T' N m ° : �° Q 2E �' mo � 0 U U r E a L° J O O w .L., i H m° U'SP Q D° cm 2 m r. M n rl N (D LO > � M J N z J M W J U E E E m + N N a N N m 73 � c a s a � � ¢ c (6 J O o � v cn W aE Z coo 5 m Q g Cl) c s m m y a o = cn E U 'm E (7 }� U N r a m N a r co 0 u1 w U Lu co W W Z Q Q Z Q O J N O � n o � � N M m Lo N 0. CD m v c 3 E o 3 o U- U v a a Q- LL N V R a) V v Q U a a LL 0 v 3 Q w J w 2 U CO R O O o o O O O O O o 0 0 0 0 0 • ', O wQ CD C) C) Ln C) CD cl� p LLI J Q O wow T�of W w w .... Q' • �p N o N 0 N 0 N 0 N 0 • � Ho C7 C7 U' C7 C7 Z O O O O O (L w Q Q Q CO O o O O 0 O O 0 O O 0 O O 0 O w O } U - N Lnri w w N N � Q Q Q ' o gZLLI Q g Q U N Ln `n N N CC) d O O N N O O O O O O O \ \ O O O O O O O (") O O O O O O \ \ r N = H O O O Ln O Ln O O o E Zp Q w O N N n m O > a�a 3 E o O L LU w e+ EH J O Q w}z O wdw m 2P D a J LLB w N Q p w N p ZcwZ m Q Q O w � C n Q O a m N OL R Z�WO W W m p Z d H O T L L U O o Es �c �lo � � o �. O E m o 2_} C) 2} C) �O� 2} C) �O� 2} C) �O� 20 �O� �o 0E-�U ?UOacn U ?UOacn U ?UOacn U ?UOdcn U ?UOacn p E] El ❑❑❑ ❑❑c ❑❑❑ ❑ x❑❑❑❑ ❑❑fie ❑❑❑ x❑❑❑❑❑ U O D m U rn W p U C o o O r- lL O w I ro r H C -0O co 0 2 H U a' Go A-) b Ca H O z O U v Ud CL n H o ro N (If n C Q z C) C i ¢o 0 } 0 + � •5 CO a ro u of a �� = N Q 2 W co O co 10 Go 1, N N w U H of 10 U} 61 Q rd 0-1�`. N w w U � �_ ri 61 l: . "o C lO O ri . 0 O -ri N G' 0 f� L� i4 fd w U W C)C a C am C J.0 UU �L w Q E, - - .ro C ++ ,� J o ro o III a) ro -, < O O U rd Ca U C H ro rd U C IIIC rd Ca U H rd m C O N C U O N LLLL Q cn Q u) a cn r a I EH o W L U m W J 10W 1 N N CD N N (D N N O N N CD N N CD Q� F- LL LL U w10 > Q w \ \ \ \ N ZO w b Q C)IDQo w O M N O m N Requ 10 lor FiCe w usal 3-2 \ 6 Page i of 30 r-I O it o T (D U (D E C)(DU m E to O `o c U }} E~n d T O o U aia o CII n U p O CD a) 0 ULL (6 _ o0 o E C n cn U Oaccn zOU O O O O O O O O O O in Ln H H Ln Ln N (N Ef? EF) EA J H 0 O O T C ca � C U J N Q O U C � C O O U o D -O 6 yL+ Oi O CL L 0 0 E N O E L O E a QU) cn N_ N E O E^ t- m cn C co o " N 0-0 1 O N L L cn � to Q Q L � O L ;- 0 3 C L w E +� C N N OV a co .> U > i�+ m Q U— U ��— C C + C O C E J 7 O U 7 O -O Q Q iI� 04 M H Z O U O O O O o o O O o O o n o 0 0 Z O ❑ W CDN N yr yr N yr O O Ln N H w Q 7 w o w❑0W ccrW W LL d c N cq N N w w N o N O N O N O N O • m � g N U N N N N 4) D O Z w o O O O O O O O O O a M O O O O }W 0 N o r-I N N o O Cn N w > Q ❑ o Q Z i W Z U U 71 a. No No L N N N \ \ r1 O O O O O CD p ("m � \ \ cn O O O O O O N CD C = O N O O O N N O O O O N N O CD C Z Q O W rl w lE O EE W W a N £ o Q W o w .r K ER J Q Wpa 0 waw m 2 F- W G ro < U O �ZQ oN O � -' C -I + O ❑ a m O O U a) C 0 H 03 Z f'W H -P M QUA LLUc G7 a) O L 0 O .A H ro U �3 G N F W u �4 0 o n � a� F- qUa � O, � m £ o s co 2U = } 2U 2 } 2>- 2U =}U =}U o EE O �U O H U ?UOo cn O F H U ?UOaco O F H U ?00ILU) G H U ?UO o-c5 G H U ?UOo-cn Q p ❑x El El El El ❑x El El El El El El [a ❑ El El El ❑x El El El El ❑x El El of O Z) m Z z O U OWE WE W 2 OZ) UZ � Qi LL N w ❑ Z U Z W H C) U) o cr) a W ro NQ% LL W p � U O -10 No ❑ 2 Q g '-I O W CO ID W N CDH W a N CDf W W N 0 0 r- W O N H O W O Lu (N m N a� N a) U)N N rn 54N N m W U �v �U NU U a)U HU •L U -A U O ¢, +' U Q z '-H O s4 Q) C] - a) H -� a) W -1 a) x -� a) - 3ro m ro U)ro �" ro oroO U LL W� a� w� m� �� o� �Ki u o � W W ❑ u) N it7 N N Ln N Ln N }� Q% J rd LL > LL b W w> Q W O N \ O N \ O N \ O N \ O N O U ❑ U w m r-I m O (1) N m N m N w ro 2 A Q� \ rn \ rn \0 (D \ O O 2 Reauest 4 Rey sal 3-23- 9 Paae 1 If of 30 U (D E 0 0 0 E o Ea2) T'5 0 U m @ c o 7� a o U a m U — O a 0 O 0 0 i i a cn UZ U O IL U) � � o c rn N M fC � � U N Q- C to to 3 E 0 3 O q) LL R U U a a Q- LL CL U H Z O U CD 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 H Z O W W CD r CD v O r O o O H Q N N r (N c) Q 7 yr yr yr w o w00W ccrW W LL d c Q0 Q N N N N N • w m o N 0 N 0 N 0 N 0 N GI D o Z w o o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 CL pQM o } U 0 r 0 r-I N N 0 Ln 0 0-1 QN 0 O Q Z i W Z U Ln Ln CL No No U4) 71, L N N N \ \ O O O O O CD(D p (") � O O O O O O \ \ (n r N = O O O O O O O O O O CD CDO C Z Q O r ri N N r1 1 rd. OWEE N m lE N 2W W Q LL £ O W O w .r K ER J Q 0 w 0 z O WLL LU 2 41 m F- Q0WW s4 fn o o O 4 < U) 4 u �000 Z �O + H N W ZLL� l4 U U7 c ro `� 01 "i5 Q =) ro 'd U O 0U) C) O O � (1 m O 'A � O O x N m a 3 ro U z 0, m N £ o s co 0 22}U 2=}U 2=>-U o EE O O F H U O F H U O F H U O F H U O H U �U ?UOo-cn ?UOaco ?ooILU) ?UOo-c5 ?UOo-cn Q p El ❑❑❑ ❑x ❑❑❑❑ El x❑❑❑❑ ❑x ❑❑❑❑ ❑x ❑❑❑❑ of O ro j U co U] a4 z Z U U O LL O W b C W S4 Wm W O OUZ o ai CL N W O ' H l4 Z W Q O R O c D � Q W H d ww o N ro c H 0 CD �2 Qg O CD rl C CD-rl 0')W co O r rN rornrn l0 CD m r CDNo m N f- O W O D Ol c 14Ln N Nrn N rn LL (o FC z i u o i+ -U � ooU H� (tlU X'U •L 73 O W 2 o 0 ro N U Q ro� c c r N x 0 is 14 Ca FC N X' �, ro z s4 z o(D u ro v W J Ul U c 54 ro U LL cHro H 04 u(D H x roFC(o 4 W U) roc P FC ror a FC u Ln Ln Ln Ln Ln o Of W W J ro 0 W N O N O N O N O N O }� Q% LL > LL ro w i Q w N \ N \ N \ N \ N O U p 0 w v N m H r) N rl m (D O w ro A Q� 0) 0) o \ 0', r Reauest G< Red sal 3-23- 9 Paae 1 of 30 U ( £ N N 0 Ear T� 0 O 0 a o U Co a m U — O a O p i i a cn 1 UZ U O a- co � � o c rn N M fC r- N U m N CL CD� � 3 E 0 3 O q) LL R U U a a CL LLCL U H Z O U CD 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 • �, Z O ❑ W CD ri CD rl O r-I v O Ln v LO N UF- Q <Ni} cNi} W w o w❑0W ccrW W LL d c Q0 Q Q0 Q w N o N 0 N 0 N 0 N 0 • m N N N N N GI a D o Z w M o o 0 0 O 0 0 O 0 0 O 0 0 O O} U 0 rn 0 rn 0 a o Ln Ln N W Q ❑ ~ Z i G W Z U Ln Ln a. No No U4) 71, L N N N \ \ r1 O O O O O O (D � p (") \ \ cn O O O O O O i N CDr1 = O O O O O O O O Ln O N N O Ln O G Z Q O ci rl ri lE N OWE W W Q LL £ O O W K w .r ER J Q Wpa 0 wLLw 2 m F- Q0wW N > fn DQoz O::) bi+1 CO ❑ O a. H 20 Zf-w LL ro ro ro a a U(0 LL o U) o V) W� M O L ° U v O o r o -1 H � ro 0 O O juC4 UC4 aQY � 0, � N E O co 0L 2} U 2} U 2} U 2} U 2} U 0 o EE 0 O F H U ?UOo-cn O F H U ?UOacf O F H U ?UOo U) O F H U ?UO o-c5 O H H U ?UOo-cn Q p ❑x El El El El ❑x El El El El ❑x ❑ ❑ ❑ El El ❑x El El El El Ed El El El O Z) m Z O co Qo U �r LL H W m oZ q OZ G) LL N o W a �♦ Z w ¢o CDs4r o V Q% � a W w N R+N U? m ro U O Q ID ID M ro CO W V% (N o ❑2 Q 0 r0 O m N O co N i)N N 0')+� >r a' U a (f)W Sa r- Nr- 0 N W O W LL 61 6l FC N N m H U � x � x � U (0ro ro`4 W Oa E ro E q� �o U U Z (0 -ri N -r1 N S4 >r N +� O a FC ro H a u ro � ro 'C� w U D LL ro a q ro a q ro a Uw U co OP: a o Oa u o � W W ❑ Ln N Ln N Ln N Ln N Ln N }� Q% J ro LL > LL ro W w> Q W O N \ O N \ O N \ O N \ O N O U w ro ❑ U w Q� m O \ m O -1 � \ (N \ o M 2 Reauest 4 Rey sal 3-23- 00 9 Paae 1 0')m of 30 p CD U (D E 0 E 10 Ea2) U T'5 U L cm . c O � ao a0 Co U — O a O p E i i a cn 1 UZ U O h- co � � o c rn N M fC r- N U m N C- CD � � 3 E 0 3 O q) LL U U a a Q- LL CL U H Z O U O O O O O O O O O O o 0 0 0 0 • 'H Z O ❑ W CD CD CD v O O O O O (1)W H U Q 7 yr yr yr 0 w❑0W ccrW W LL d c Q0 Q Q0 co Q w N o N O N O N O N O • m N N N N N GI D O Z w o O O O O O O O O O a pQM } U 0 O 0 N o O O Ln o N i Q ❑ O Q Z i W Z U U 71, a. No No L N N N \ \ O O O O O CD(D p (") � \ \ cn O O O O O O N CD C = O C O O N O O O O O N O O N O CD 61 Z Q O W N w lE O � 2W W LL N £ O Q W o w .r K ER J Q w0z 0 Z a w 2 N m F- Q0 Ww biU Vi DZ�w? ❑Q>� ro C CH U C ro H � 0 a. � Z0Nw s4 ro �4 o c "a Q❑ ro ro� 3HC' U 7 t/7 U c U is H N m O 7 -1 ro H H N H H N +1 N -1 d P+ x a H O 0, £ o s co 0 22}U 2=}U 2=>-U o EE O O H U ?UOo-cn O F H U a ?UOcf O F H U ?ooILU) G H U ?UOo-c5 G H U ? UOo-cn Q p El ❑❑❑ H ❑❑❑❑ H ❑❑❑❑ E ❑❑❑❑ E ❑❑❑❑ of O Z m H H Z O U w LL 0 m o ❑ -, . 0 Oz ro LL = N w U O H ZW OJ C Ci Q% M a W (1)� o w O cn Ill (1) W Q` N Ln v, N Q 2 Q 0') CO CO W O_ O N H U W U W FC N rn N rn N rn W 4-0 U C C O N4 roU 73 o ui 2 o +J U (1)w (0 W u E ro w F a }� U Z (1) r F N is S4 -1 0 W J (0U C H a coro ro co ro O U U D W �4 (D ro 000 cr N 7 C] Ga h C < < .L' C W < C C c) FC u o Of W W ❑ N N N Ln N d) N }� Q% J ro LL > LL ro W w> Q W O N \ O N -1 O N \ O N \ O N O , U ❑ U w O CD 0', r m N w ro Q� \ \ \ \ 2 Reauest 4 Rey sal 3-23- k Paae 2 of 30 p C U (D E N N O O E}.� o Eat T� 0 U m @ c o 7� a o U a m U — O a O 0 0 i i a cn I UZ U O IL U) � � o c rn N M fC r- N U m N C- CD � � 3 E 0 3 O q) LL R U U a a. Q- LL CL U H Z O U CD 0 0 0 C) C) C) C) C) C) o 0 0 0 0 Z O W CD CD C) � v C) N v C) c) Q W w o w0W0 ccrW W LL d c � m a w N o N 0 N 0 N 0 N C) • m N N (N N N 4) D o Z w o o 0 0 0 0 C) C) C) C) a M O O O O o } 0 0 o n o �O w QN N m O Q Z i W Z U U 71, a. 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Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 27 of 30 D si. 0 R cb It 0 10 m /D V YI. 2 0 W �¢ iVll J (] W � LL O LU d� 4 0 IL p Za �m O� O LU 2 LLI O U U O 'O � O 7 d LLI z O ro 0 W m WWW w FK� � 4 v W V rl -H ©•.i H1-4 �4 AS fd 7 aj v LSi 07 C4ZUP v z U, a o.. tj o (n mm � LL H N O q Q 1JN �i o a u> Q fo N U W {]fa M dui a� wv w-4 W N ., W ^� N z 0 W v k4 N Aj J LL Cc Sri $ H d Id U jj �0 C; W rc} 9 wW r N C3 g I Page 28 of 30 O P � sv C? m .Q H7 V a n U LL fY Ci a d A to g January 26, 2026 Calendar Entry Description: This exhibit contains records showing a January 26, 2026 meeting involving: Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava Developer representatives Representatives of the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters Request for Recusal 3-23-26 Page 29 of 30 x C m 41 rp 71 rd �u M a° m a as rn Z Z Z ✓J V L 0 47 aj al "- l7J 0 (D <D o Q w ,O 'u u Lj yy��� /y��� C U W fV T � r T i i Date: 3/24/2026 3:02:17 AM From "Lori Hughes" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] FKcI: AnahchnHills Festival Center Project You don't often get email from Learnwhthis is mportant 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 messa e--------- From Lori Hughes Date: Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 12:39 AM Subject: Fwd: Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project To: <publicconTmpI&mbi imnet> ---------- Forwarded message --------- From Lori Hughes Date: Sun, Feb 8, 2026 at 1029 AM Subject: Fwd: Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project To: < ---------- Forwarded message --------- From Lori Hughes Date: Wed, Feb 4, 2026 at 1:57 AM Subject: Fwd: Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project To: ---------- Forwarded message --------- From Lori IIughes Date: Tue, Feb 3, 2026 at 3:10 PM Subject: Re: Anaheim Hills Festival Center Project To: <pubkcco=nt&naheimnet> February 3, 2026 City of Anaheim Mayor and Members ofthe City Council Regarding. Anaheim Hills Festival Center 447-unit residential project (Development Application No. 2023-00043) Dear Mayor and Members ofthe City Council, I am writing to fomnlly express my opposition to the proposed 447-unit residential development at Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I am an Anaheim Hills resident, and my entire firmly have been Anaheim Hills residents for the last 25 years. I am kindly requesting that the real life and death concerns regarding evacuations in our comnimity be taken very seriously. Voting yes on the housing development at Festival Center will bring too marry additional cars into the ma, making evacuations during a fire far more difficult and dangerous than was already the case in previous fires. I have heard that thugs will be done differently when the next fire cotes to our coumxttuty, but this offers no assurance at all! Whatever different evacuation scenarios have been proposed, have not been tested in real life! The infrastructure remains the same, no matter what! The typical time to travel 1 /4 to 1 /2 mile during the 2017 fires was about 2 1 /2 hours. How could that have even been acceptable to begin with! This supposed 7 additional minutes evacuation time to get out with the new housing project is absolutely preposterous! ! ! Fires are unpredictable, people in a panic are unpredictable. It's a nice idea to think that all would go well and be fine, but that is simply not realistic! Eleven of my farnily rnembers reside in Anaheim HiUs (including my 93 year old mother). Six members of my family live behind or near the Festival Center. They have been through the last few fires, and their experiences during the 2017 evacuation were terrifying! ! ! I am deeply concerned about the safety and well being of my faintly members, and neighbors who live here! I know that in a real life situation, I would stop at nothing to rescue a men ber of my family. I have heard others state exactly the same thing! The new controlled "test plans" to evacuate the area is not enough to justify voting yes on this project. Test plans are just that, test plans. Please, please, don't dismiss the connui ty's real life and death concerns that arc based on past frightening experiences and credible, well documented evidence concerning the very real lack of infrastructure for this project. Thank you for taking the titres to read this, and take seriously these things. Sincerely yours, Lori Hughes Date: 3/24/2026 9:20:01 AM From "Julie Jarvi' To: "Public Corrnnent" publiccornnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fw. Anaheim Hills Festival Center You don't oftcn get ema> fro Learn why this is important Warning: This entail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the ruessage. Hello, I am forwarding my prior email about this project to be included in the public comment. I want to add one thing. I read in the OC Register that Councilmember Rubalcava stated that multifamily units needed to be spread across the city - implying that Anaheim Hills does not have a fair share of them. This comment greatly concerns me because it makes me think that the Councilwoman is not familiar with our neighborhood even though she is voting on something that directly affects our neighborhood. The 92808 zip code, where this project will be located if approved, is already full of multifamily units. There are multiple, large apartment complexes as well as several condo complexes, several townhome complexes, and several attached home complexes. I believe the multifamily units outnumber the single-family homes near this project. Please, learn about our neighborhood before voting on something that directly impacts the residents. We already have a large portion of multifamily units. We also have severe fire threat as I hope you are already aware and what is most concerning. Adding this project will only increase the threat of catastrophe in a future fire to all of the current residents as well as new residents from this project. Adding this project will only add to our already too long evacuation times. I hope the safety of the current residents is at the forefront of your consideration. This project should be denied. Thank you, Julie Jarvi From: Julie Jarvi Sent: Saturday, February 28, 2026 2:31 PM To: Public Comment <publiccomment@anaheim.net> Subject: Anaheim Hills Festival Center I am a resident of Anaheim on Quiet Canyon Ct. In the 92808 zip code. I am against the festival center property being allowed to have a large apartment development on it. We live in a very high fire zone, as you know. We have been evacuated multiple times for fires, as you know. The last time was 2017 where it took several hours to evacuate. I recall driving up Serrano during the evacuation and seeing a patch of fire just several feet from my car. Thankfully, that little patch didn't grow bigger and blow into my car due to the very high wind that day. Since that day, the only change I've seen by the city are little blue signs on poles pointing out my evacuation route. The "Know Your Way" plan that has been put in place is not enforceable and does not take into account the extreme stress people are under during an evacuation. People will do what they need to do, whether it is pick up their kids at school or pets at home. An evacuation during a fire is chaotic, and we don't need another 1000 cars on the road from this development adding even more time to our evacuation to safety. Also, has the city considered the extra traffic from the cemetery that is being planned? Are you aware that Santa Ana Canyon east of Weir is a parking lot every afternoon with 100+ cars inching towards the freeway entrance as people have cut through our neighborhoods to avoid the 91 freeway? What is your plan for the added traffic for the cemetery? How are our streets going to handle extra cars from the cemetery and 1000+ cars from this development? Our neighborhoods cannot handle the current amount of cars coming through. The movie theatre currently on the property has been closed for a few years. In that time since it closed, the traffic has only gotten much worse. This project is not offsetting any movie theatre traffic. It will add traffic. Please listen to us, your current residents of the area. I feel like we aren't being heard, and you all are supposed to represent us. We are all terrified of the next fire and the next evacuation. I don't want to die in my car. We've seen this happen in other cities. Please don't make it happen to us here. Thank you, Julie Jarvi Date: 3/24/202610:38:36 AM From: "Public Comment" publiccommentCanaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" To: KMaahsCaanaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtr a anabeimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeo*danaheim.net, "Ryan Balius" RBabus@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken a>anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for the Festival Project as a District 6 Resident You don't often get email fro Learn why tivs is important 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. Dear Council Members and Mayor, I am writing today as a District 6 resident to express my support for the Festival project I truly believe this project will benefit many young families, including my own daughter and grandson, who are trying to find a place of their own while still remaining in a safe and desirable part of Anaheim. This project would provide opportunities for families like hers to stay close to loved ones while continuing to live in a good area. I also want to saythat I believe the City of Anaheim has done a greatjob taking care of its residents. I have confidence in our city staff, first responders, and the employees who work hard every day to keep our community safe. Regarding fire concerns, those of us who live in the hills already understand that our area is naturally more prone to fire danger than the flatlands. We chose to live here knowing that risk. I would also assume that, in the event of a fire, homes closest to the hillside would be evacuated first based on the direction of fire authorities. I trust our fire professionals to make those decisions and keep residents safe. Unfortunately, I feel that some of my neighbors in District 6 are becoming extreme in their opposition simply because of increasing traffic but that traffic is from the neighboring county. I also believe we must think about the needs of the entire city — not just those who already have the privilege of living comfortably in the hills. This project is a good opportunity for Anaheim as a whole, notjust for a select few. If the state eventually requires more housing in this area, it may bring even more density and the very types of housing that some residents say they are trying to avoid. Supporting a thoughtful project now may be the better path for our city. Mayor, I say this respectfully: I am not sure why you are opposing this project when it could be a real benefit to Anaheim residents. I hope your vote reflects what is best for the city as a whole, not just what is politically convenient. The Festival project is an opportunity to support working families, young adults, and future generations who deserve the chance to live in Anaheim too — not just the elite. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Rosa Villacana District 6 Resident Date: 3/24/202610:45:18 AM From: "martha" "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Safety FIRST, Vote NO Festival Center development You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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 am a resident of Anaheim Hills area off of Weir Canyon since 1984 and have lived this fear! ! ! Please reconsider this vote and allow for more detail evaluation of the risks to the existing and new residents. Please STOP this progress until life saving evacuation plans are in place for all! ! ! God Bless, Martha On Feb 5, 2026, at 6:26 PM, trartha wrote: Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of hidden ridge (weir canyon and oak) to urge you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I lived here since 1998 when this area was being developed and to say the least it is over populated for our safety. During the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling of being stuck in my car, trying to get out of my house and getting my mom down the street and my 3 kids at Running Springs. The school scenario was scary, the bused the kids out and they went down Serrano and the buses were stuck in traffic and the poor kids were watching the fire bum close to them All because of the congestion on the streets. We were all frightened and not being able to get out of a true fire hell I recall watching the smoke get closer, and literally not rnoving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic" --it was a total standstill The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ rmre people to that exact same escape route is tenii i lg to those of us who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "o*' add about 7 n uAes to the evacuation tines. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 rrrirnrtes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few Imes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels We a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Martha Vega God Bless, Martha 11 Date: 3/24/202612:33:10 PM From "Marcia Anderson" To: "Public Conmrnt" publiccomrnent(kanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] festival project [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at his://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This ernail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. As a resident of East Hills, I amwriting to you to advise the coma ittee of our extreme objection to moving forward on the festival project Today in Anaheim Hills we are experiencing a power outage that began very early this morning. It is projected we will not have power until after 5 PM. As I passed the fire station, I noted that the fire danger sign at the local fire station was marked high. Imagine today, when it is difficult to even get out of your garage, a fire starts. We have lived here for over 12 years and have experienced two fires in this area. Both experiences were traumatic. It was sheer chaos and fortunately we were able to be evacuated after a horrific traffic, jam and heroic efforts of the fire department. Our insurance has been canceled after 32 years because ofthe high wind high fire danger in Anaheim Hills. How can this comtrtittee possibly vote to approve additional density in this already dangerous landscape. Please note that should this pass. Our community is very organized and we will ensure that this connrrittee will not be reelected. Thank you, Marcia and Bob Anderson Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/24/202612:35:37 PM From "Marcia Anderson"M "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Nornia C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue [You don't often get email from Learn why this is ftTortant at https://aka.ns/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This email originated from outside the City ofAnaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Dear Council Menber, i am writing to you as a resident of Anaheimto ask you to please vote "No" on the proposed apartments at the AnaheirnHills Festival Center. I lived here during the Canyon Fire 2 in 2017, and I will never forget the feeling ofbeing stuck in my car, watching the smoke get closer, and literally not rnoving for over an hour. It wasn't just "traffic"it was a total standstill. The thought of adding hundreds of new apartments and about 1000+ more people to that exact sane escape route is terrifying to those ofus who have actually been in that situation. The reports for this project say that adding these cars will "only" add about 7 minutes to the evacuation time. But when you're already stuck for three hours and the fire is moving toward you, 7 minutes is a lifetime. We don't have extra roads or "secret" ways out of the Hills; we all end up on the same few lanes. Adding more people to a neighborhood that is already a bottleneck during a fire just feels like a tragedy waiting to happen. I understand that the city needs housing, but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already struggling to get out safely. Please don't make an existing danger even worse just for a new development. We are asking you to prioritize the lives and safety ofthe people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Marcia and Robert Anderson Sent fromnry iPhone Date: 3/24/20261:26:46 PM From: "S R"— "Public Corrrnent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kuntz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet Subject: [EXIERNA14 Supplemental Inforrrration & Impartiality Considerations Ahead of Final Vote for the Festival Development Proposal (DEV2023-00043) on 3-24-26 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. Dear Mayor and Council Members, I hope this rressage funds you well. With the second and final vote on the Festival Development Proposal scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, I am writing to respectfizlly request clarification on several key issues prior to deliberation. Given the significance of this decision and its direct impact on public safety, infrastructure, and community trust —having clear, on -the - record responses to these questions would greatly support informed public engagement and confidence in the decision -making process. Evacuation & Traffic • Canthe Council explain how real-mrld traffic conditions —not solely modeled scenarios —were incorporated into evacuation planning? • What specific analysis detmnstrates that existing road capacity can safely support additional evacuation demand? • How were known bottlenecks and choke points evaluated under energency conditions? • What assumptions were made regarding resident evacuation behavior, and how do those reflect real -world patterns? Fire Safety & Risk Thresholds • What standard is being used to define a "safe evacuation," and how was that standard applied in this case? • How does the City account for moist -case conditions, rather than average scenarios, in its safety analysis? • What margin of safety exists ifreal-world conditions differ from projections? Transparency & Process • Can the Council outfare how community concerns were incorpornted into the final decision-rmking process? • Where can the public access detailed responses to the specific safety concerns that were raised? • Wbat factors were considered in this decision, and how were they prioritized? Outstanding Questions & Uncertainty • Which concerns raised by residents remain unresolved at this stage? • How is uncertainty being accounted for in the decision being made? • Can the Council clarify where assumptions were made due to united or incomplete data? Deliberation & Decision Integrity • Can the Council describe the deliberation process that led to this point? • How were repeated comnnity concerns weighed against project approval? • What conditions or findings would have warranted reconsideration of the project? Impartiality & Public Trust At a prior meeting on 1-13-26, Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava publicly indicated that her support for this project was contingent on a labor agreement. Following that meeting an agreement was reached after coordination between project stakeholders. That sequence of events raises concerns about whether factors outside of land use, safety, and planning considerations may be influencing this decision. A detailed request has already been submitted outlining concerns regarding Counc*mniber [Name]'s mTartiality. Based on those concerns, I respectfully request that she recuse herself from this vote to preserve the integrity of the process and maintain public trust. More broadly, this situation highlights the importance of ensuring that decisions of this magnitude are made transparently, based on complete information, and with comnwnity safety as the priority. Public Trust & Accountability • How can the Council help the public understand how this decision was reached in away that builds confidence in the process? • What steps were taken to ensure transparency around all factors influencing this decision? • How can residents be assured that community safety was prioritized in the final outcon>✓? Additional Consideration Given the volume and consistency of these concerns from residents, addressing them clearly would go a long way toward strengthening public confidence in both the outcorne and the integrity of the process. I appreciate your time and consideration in reviewing these questions. Providing clarity on these points —either in advance or during the meeting would help ensure that the final vote reflects a fully informed and transparent process. Thank you for your service to our conm u*. Respectfully, Shelly Robbins From: Krista Mckinney Sent: Tuesday, March 24, 2026 1:30 PM To: Public Comment <publiccomment@anaheim.net> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Vote NO Festival Ctr Apt Project You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. 03/24/2026 Dear Council Member, I am writing to ask you to vote "No" on the Anaheim Hills Festival Center apartment project. The idea that we can add over 400 apartments and about 1300 people to this area without creating a disaster during a wildfire evacuation is not possible. The city reports that it already takes residents over three hours to get out during a fire. It is perplexing that with California's historic losses from recent fires our city would consider a high density housing development over the safety of its constituents. The evacuation route during 2017 fire took hours with less residents and less commuters than today's numbers. We need our leaders to look at the reality of our streets, not just the numbers on a developer's spreadsheet. Please do the responsible thing and protect the residents who are already here. We need better ways to get out of the Hills, not more people trapped in them. Please vote "No" on this project. Sincerely, Krista M Prewett Date: 3/24/20261:42:31 PM From: To: "Public Comment" publicconmrnt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Attachment: ATTOOOOI;text O.txt; Dear Council and Mayor. I support the festival project. The city should embrace housing all over Anaheim without exclusions. The old movie theater is a great place where it can be used as So. California has a shortage of housing. Thank you, Vicky Date: 3/24/2026 1:44:42 PM From: "Maricela RamirezS" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Dear Council and Mayor, You don't often get email from Learn ft is p portant 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. Dear Council and Mayor. I support the festival project. The city should embrace housing all over Anaheim without exclusions. The old rmvie theater is a great place where it can be used as So. Califomia has a shortage of housing. Thank you, Vicky Date: 3/24/2026 1:47:14 PM From: "Jose Santiago" To: "Public Corrunent" publicconsmut@anabeimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] You don't often get email from Learnwhy this is important 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. Dear Council and Mayor. I support the festival project. The city should embrace housing all over Anaheim without exclusions. The old rmvie theater is a great place where it can be used as So. California has a shortage of housing. Thank you, Vicky Date: 3/24/20261:48:37 PM From "Jackie Edlin" To: "Public Connuent" publiccomrnent(kanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Festival CenterProject [You don't often get email from- Learn why this is important at httus://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Waming: 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. To Whom it May Concern, Fmwriting this to implore the board to reconsider the Festival Center Apartment project. During the Yorba Linda fire, it took my husband 1.5 hours to go one mile to take my- son to his day program It took me 2.5 hrs to get borne, to help get ready to evacuate, coning fromthe other direction. The traffic congestion is already at an all time high fromthe 91 eastbound due to commuters using Santa Ana Canyon Rd thru to GypsumCanyon as a shortcut. Adding hundreds ofmore residents will assuredly cause a repeat Paradise fire result. As it is, we have to time our shopping at Savi Ranch around high freeway shortcut tiering or be stuck in traffic an extra 30-50 mins just to go a few miles east. Please thinkbeyond the money and politics and consider the residents that will be affected the most. Thank you for your consideration. Jackie Edlin Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/24/2026 2:23:25 PM From "Allen Stoller" To: "Public Corrrnent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim Hills Housing and Retail projec You don't often get email from Leam wliis =ortant 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. For the record, I am adamantly opposed to the new project, unless and until the surrounding infrastructure is impro\ed. Traffic around the area is already a nightmare with many people who live in the Inland Empire taking Anaheim Hills streets to bypass the 91 freeway traffic. If there were a fire today, I would extremely concerned and even scared as to whether we would be able to evacuate the area. A project like is being proposed is simply putting existing residents at extreme danger. Allen Stoller Date: 3/24/2026 3:05:12 PM From: "Brad Gorsha"M "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" To: AAitken@anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" ICVIaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheim.net, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaz@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the AH Festival Project Some people who received this rr essage don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Hello, Pm a 26-yr resident ofAnaheirnHi is and our traffic in Anaheim Hills has increased significantly since I've lived here. Imperial, Santa Ana Canyon, Weir Canyon and Serrano are undrivable during many hours of the day. My entrance to the 91 West should be Imperial, but it is gridlocked 90% of the time, and Google recommends entering at Lakeview. Exiting Imperial from the 91 has become complete gridlock 75% of the time I travel through it, and I can rarely even turn onto Santa Ana Canyon. Google recommends exiting at Lincoln/Nohl Ranch about 50% of the time. Anaheim Hills serves as a bypass to drivers trying to avoid the 55 and 91 freeways. SR-91 freeway is projected to see a 50% increase in traffic by 2035. (US Dept of Transporation� • WHAT is being done to mitigate this? • WHY are new developments being considered before infrastructure is deemed to be adequate? • WHY is the safety of Anaheim residers in a VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD zone being disregarded? • It's illogical and irresponsible to consider adding 450-500 units, which will translate to 1000+ more cars. I encourage the council to: • Delay or deny the Festival project until traffic mitigation and evacuation improvements are made. • Explore alternative locations or smaller developr ers. The out-of-state developer should not be a higher priority than your own residents. Thanks for your time, Brad Gorsha Date: 3/24/2026 3:05:12 PM From: "Brad Gorsha"� "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" To: AAitken@anaheimnet, "KristenMaahs" ICVIaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheim.net, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Jennifer Diaz" JDiaz@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the AH Festival Project Some people who received this rr essage don't often get email fro team why this is important 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. Hello, Pm a 26-yr resident ofAnaheirnHi is and our traffic in Anaheim Hills has increased significantly since I've lived here. Imperial, Santa Ana Canyon, Weir Canyon and Serrano are undrivable during many hours of the day. My entrance to the 91 West should be Imperial, but it is gridlocked 90% of the time, and Google recommends entering at Lakeview. Exiting Imperial from the 91 has become complete gridlock 75% of the time I travel through it, and I can rarely even turn onto Santa Ana Canyon. Google recommends exiting at Lincoln/Nohl Ranch about 50% of the time. Anaheim Hills serves as a bypass to drivers trying to avoid the 55 and 91 freeways. SR-91 freeway is projected to see a 50% increase in traffic by 2035. (US Dept of Transporation� • WHAT is being done to mitigate this? • WHY are new developments being considered before infrastructure is deemed to be adequate? • WHY is the safety of Anaheim residers in a VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD zone being disregarded? • It's illogical and irresponsible to consider adding 450-500 units, which will translate to 1000+ more cars. I encourage the council to: • Delay or deny the Festival project until traffic mitigation and evacuation improvements are made. • Explore alternative locations or smaller developr ers. The out-of-state developer should not be a higher priority than your own residents. Thanks for your time, Brad Gorsha Date: 3/24/2026 4:21:48 PM From "Glenda Babbitt" E "Public Comment" publicconnnent@anaheimnet, "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" To: CLeon@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurU2*auaheimne4 "KristenMaahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote NO on the Shea/Festival Center apartments — It's a safety issue Some people who received this message don't of get email from Learn why this is important Wanting: 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. Dear Council Member, I am writing to you as a resident of Anaheim to ask you to please vote 'No" on the proposed apartments at the Anaheim Hills Festival Center. I have lived here for 35 years and have experienced the fear ofbeing stuck in traffic with the presence of a fire burning nearby. That, however, isn't ny biggest beef with the traffic. My problem is getting home after work when the traffic on the 91 is at a standstill. I can't get home as i can't even get into my tract. You see a street in my track, Larkwood runs parallel to Weir Canyon so when traffic backs up on Weir, commiaters use the next best street..Larkwood. My comnatuty has expressed our concem and even worked with the City to ease the traffic. You are not allowed to turn right onto Santa Ana Canyon between 2pm and 7pm out of my tract. With no enforcement connnrters ignore the traffic law. By adding this complex and ignoring updating the infrastructure, my comrrite is going to get worse. Guess I'll have to park in the shopping center nearby,walk hotre and walk back to get my car when traffic dies down. Please vote NO on this developinent until the City has addressed the infrastructure issues. I understand that the city needs housing but it shouldn't be built in a place where people are already snuggling to get out and home. Please don't nuke an existing danger and daily comrnate issue even worse just for a new development. I am asking you to prioritize the lives and safety of the people who already live here and pay taxes here. Sincerely, Glenda Babbitt Sent from my Galaxy Date: 3/24/2026 6:28:04 PM From: "Alan Burke" To: "Public Comment" publicconimnt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Apartment complex anaheim hills proposal You don't often get email from Learn why this is mrortant 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. The Traffic is already out of control in Anaheim Hills!! This wig only make it worse. It will be unsafe in the event of an evacuation as well. We do not want this ! ! We oppose ! ! ! Do not allow this ! ! ! Sent from AOL on Android Date: 3/23/2026 2:45:53 PM From "Nguyen, Ngoc" Ngoc.Nguyen@mail.house.gov To: "Public Comment" publiccomrent@anaheimnet "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBalius@anaheimnet, "Carlos A. Leon" CLeon@anaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava(&,,anaheimnet, Cc: "Norma C. Kurtz" NKurtz@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs(g),anaheimnet, "Berenice Ballinas" BBallinas@anaheimnet, "Alyssa Guerrero" alguerrero@anaheimnet, "JJJimenez" JJirnenezccanaheimnet, "dwetmore@carpiclay.com" dwetmore@carpiclay.com, "zconndm(kcarpiclay.com" zconurrnsCcarpiclay.com Subject: [EXTERNAL] Rep. Correa's LOS for council meeting Attachment: Anaheim support letter CORREA 2026-03-26.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. Good afternoon, Attached is a letter of support from Congressman Lou Correa for item 28 on tomorrow's council meeting agenda. Best, Ngoc Nguyen I Deputy Chief of staff Office ofCongressman I Luis Correa (CA-06) 2082 Rayburn HOB I Tel: 202-225-2965 LOU CORREA Twitter I Facebook I Instagram I Website wASHHou&EI L U I S C O R R EA rricE 2092 h'AYBIJRN HOUSE QFFIGE BUILDING ,J . WAS204GT 46TH DISTRICT, CALIFORNIA 2 5--2W5515 (202Y225-2965 SAHTA ANADISTRICT E Collg e!5!5 of the Z111itebtate!J 2323 N. BROADWAY. SUITr 319 SANTA ANa, CA 9270C �)ougr of 3hprtuata6Vt! (714y559-6190 U-1a1511intgton, 74DC 20515 March 24, 2026 Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council, HousE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS DEPUTY WHIP FUR. POLICY HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HDmnw) SEuwrry RANKING MEMBEk SUECOMMITTEE ON RCROER SECURITY. AND ENFOWEMENT SUBCOMMITTEE ON COVNTERTE FIISM, LAW ENFOI EYENT, AND INTELLIGENCE HousE COMMITTEE ON THE Juni 1ARY SUECOMMITTEE ON THE AOMINISTRATNE STATE, FI GuuTOFN REFORM, AND ANTITRLBT SUBCOMMITTEE ON IMMIGRATION INTEGRRT, SECIIRT , AND ENFORCEMENT I write in strong support of the proposed addition of an immigrant legal defense fund within the Anaheim Contigo program. This action reflects a practical and necessary response to ongoing federal immigration enforcement activity and its measurable effects on local economies such as Anaheim's. Immigration enforcement actions carry immediate economic consequences for cities anchored by service, tourism, and small business sectors. Anaheim is a prime example. Our workforce includes a significant number of immigrant workers across hospitality, construction, food service, and logistics. When enforcement activity escalates, the disruption is not limited to individual households. It reverberates through workplaces, reduces labor availability, and constrains business operations. Recent conditions in Anaheim confirm this pattern. The city has documented continued enforcement activity, including regular targeted operations affecting workers and job sites. Employers across the city are navigating uncertainty as enforcement actions interrupt staffing and daily operations, while families face sudden income loss and instability. The Anaheim Contigo initiative has already established a strong foundation by providing verified information, emergency assistance, and connections to legal and community resources. However, the current framework relies heavily on external nonprofit capacity and does not fully meet the scale or urgency of legal needs during active enforcement periods. A dedicated legal defense fund addresses this gap in a targeted and economically sound manner. Access to legal representation improves case outcomes, reduces prolonged detention, and allows individuals to maintain employment where legally permitted. In practical terms, this stabilizes the workforce, reduces turnover costs for employers, and helps prevent cascading financial strain on families that would otherwise require additional public assistance. Local testimony and recent council discussions further underscore the urgency of expanding Anaheim's response. Community members, including day laborers and small business stakeholders, have identified a clear need for on -the -ground legal services and dedicated funding to respond to repeated enforcement actions affecting workers in real time. Establishing an immigrant legal defense fund within Anaheim Contigo would align the city with proven models in neighboring jurisdictions while tailoring the approach to Anaheim's economic profile. It would strengthen the city's ability to respond swiftly during enforcement activity, support business continuity, and reinforce confidence among workers who are essential to Anaheim's economic base. This proposal is consistent with responsible governance and recognizes that workforce stability, business continuity, and community trust are interconnected. A legal defense component is a necessary extension of the city's existing efforts to mitigate disruption, maintain economic resilience, and support of immigrant families living in Anaheim. For these reasons, I respectfully urge approval of this agenda item. Sincerely, J. Luis Correa Member of Congress Date: 3/24/2026 1:04:34 PM From: "Bulmaro Vicente" boomerCchispaoc.org To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Public Comment Item 28 - Anaheim Legal Defense Fund Attachment: 3.24.26 - Item 28 Anaheim Legal Defense Fund, Chispa Letter to CC.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. ME Please find Chispa's letter of support for Item 28. In Solidarity, Boomer Policy and Political Director I Chispa e: boomerCa�chispaoc.org c: 1505 E 17th Street Suite 117 anta na, A 92705 Chispa is building a political home for young Latinxs in Orange County! Please consider making a donation to help us build our casita. Chispa is a project of Tides Advocacy, a .olc4 non-profit organization. CkispaA� March 24th, 2026 Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and Members of City Council City of Anaheim 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. Anaheim, CA 92805 RE: Item 28 — Urgent Request to Establish a City -Supported Immigration Legal Defense Fund Dear Mayor Aitken and Members of the Anaheim City Council, On behalf of Chispa, we urge the City of Anaheim to establish a dedicated immigration legal defense fund to support residents and families impacted by ongoing immigration enforcement raids in the amount of $100,000. Anaheim has already demonstrated leadership through the Anaheim Contigo Fund, which has provided critical assistance to hundreds of families facing hardship. However, as city staff have acknowledged, the current program is limited in scope and resources, particularly when it comes to addressing the growing need for legal representation. Legal defense is a matter of due process and fundamental fairness. Without access to legal counsel, individuals facing deportation are significantly less likely to be able to navigate complex immigration proceedings, even when they may have valid claims to remain in the country. At the same time, Anaheim has been deeply impacted by immigration enforcement activity. Across Orange County, cities are recognizing the urgency of this moment and stepping up to protect their communities. Most recently, the City of Irvine approved the creation of a legal aid fund to connect immigrant families with attorneys and provide immediate representation, emphasizing the importance of due process and community safety. If Anaheim acts now, it would join a growing list of cities including Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and Irvine that are investing in legal defense infrastructure to ensure residents are not left to face detention and deportation alone. We respectfully urge the City Council to establish a immigration legal defense fund in the amount of $100,000, ensuring it provides timely access to legal representation, including intake, screenings, and direct legal services. The City should partner with trusted community -based organizations and legal service providers to ensure services are delivered efficiently and in a timely manner. At a time when fear and uncertainty are rising, Anaheim has the opportunity to lead with compassion, fairness, and a commitment to justice. Sincerely, /�#ulWmaro Vicente Policy and Political Director Chispa Date: 3/24/2026 2:52:15 PM From: "Villegas, Robert" robert.villegas@bos2.oc.gov To: "City Clerk" cityclerk@anaheimnet, "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Cc: "Santana, Richard" dchard santana@bos2.oc.gov Subject: [EXTERNAL] Supervisor Sarmiento's letter in Support of the Anaheim Configo Program and development of legal defense component Attachment: Letter in support of the Configo Anahem legal assistance corrgonent.pdf, Sorro people who received this niessage don't often get email from robert.villegasna bos2.oc.gov. Learn why this is important 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 find attached a letter from Supervisor Sarmiento in support of the Anaheim Contigo program and the legal defense component item on tonight's Council agenda. Please let me know if you have any questions. Robe"as Communications Advisor Office of Vicente Sarmiento Second District Supervisor County of Orange VICENTE SARMIENTO ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS SUPERVISOR, SECOND DISTRICT COUNTY ADMINISTRATION NORTH BUILDING 400 W. CIVIC CENTER DRIVE. SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA 92701 PHONE (714) 834-3220 March 24, 2026 Dear Honorable Mayor and Members of the Anaheim City Council, I write to express my strong support for continued funding of the Anaheim Contigo Program and the establishment of an immigration legal defense component. Anaheim Contigo has proven to be an essential lifeline for residents —helping families stay housed, keep the lights on, and meet basic needs during times of hardship. As your agenda report highlights, the program has already served hundreds of residents and continues to meet a growing demand in the community. Expanding this effort through the "Stay Housed Anaheim Program" and additional utility assistance is a critical step forward. At the same time, establishing a legal defense component is both timely and necessary. Having legal representation or assistance to navigate the legal process involved in immigration law is one of the most difficult hurdles that our families face in trying to ensure their rights are respected. Last year, in collaboration with philanthropic entities, we funded the creation of the OC Liberty Fund to support county non -profits in the community legal empowerment work they do every day. The need is so acute, and for many families, the additional assistance you can provide could make all the difference. These investments are essential to protecting vulnerable residents and strengthening the overall stability of the community. Your action on this item will not only assist in ensuring we protect the rights of our immigrant neighbors, who continue to be targets, but also send an important message to our immigrant communities that they are part of the city and that you support them at those most difficult moments for so many families. I strongly urge the City Council to move forward with both the continuation of Anaheim Contigo and the implementation of this legal defense component. Thank you for your leadership and continued commitment to Anaheim families. Sincerely, Z�/" Vicente Sarmiento Supervisor, Second District Orange County Board of Supervisors Date: 3/24/2026 2:58:59 PM From: "OC Rapid Response Network" info@ocrapidresponse.org "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet, "Carlos A Leon" CLeon aanaheimnet "Natalie Rubalcava" To: NRubalcava@anaheimnet, "ncamposkurtra)anaheimnet" ncamposkurt{a(anaheimnet, "Natalie Meeks" NMeeks@anaheimnet, "Kristen Maahs" KMaahs@anaheimnet, "Ryan Balius" RBaliusCanaheimnet, "Public Comment" publiccommenteqanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Item 28: Urgent Request to Establish a City -Supported Immigration Legal Defense Fund Attachment: Item 28 Anaheim Legal Defense Fund Letter .pdf; You don't often get email from info@ocrapidresponse.org. Learn why this is important 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 attached letter of support. IMI Sandra De Anda Director of Policy and Legal Strategy Pronouns: (She/Her/Hers) Orange County Rapid Response Network March 24, 2026 Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and Members of City Council City of Anaheim 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. Anaheim, CA 92805 RE: Item 28 — Urgent Request to Establish a City -Supported Immigration Legal Defense Fund Dear Mayor Aitken and Members of the Anaheim City Council, On behalf of the Orange County Rapid Response Network (OCRRN), we respectfully urge the City of Anaheim to establish a dedicated immigration legal defense fund to support residents and families impacted by ongoing immigration enforcement. We recommend an initial allocation of $250,000 in light of the heightened level of ICE enforcement in the city, and an amount that matches that of the City of Santa Ana's Legal Defense Fund. Since 2017, we have earned the trust of communities most impacted by the immigration system. This trust is reflected in our emergency hotline, which has received over 10,000 calls across Orange County. A significant share of these calls comes from Anaheim residents, who are the second -highest regional callers after Santa Ana. One of the most striking calls we received came from an Anaheim resident —the son of Narciso Barranco who reported that his father had been brutalized by Border Patrol agents while working at the intersection of Edinger and Ritchey in Santa Ana on June 21, 2025. Our team responded immediately, just as we have in numerous cases involving Anaheim residents. These include a Vietnamese refugee who was taken in front of their Anaheim apartment three years ago through a ruse involving an ICE officer impersonating a police officer, and who later experienced a severe mental health crisis due to the destabilizing effects of detention. We also supported a Salvadoran father detained last year at Chapman Car Wash, whose son with disabilities suffered immensely during his absence. In each case, individuals were ultimately reunited with their families because they had access to trusted legal representation. The state of DHS enforcement in Anaheim has worsened significantly. Since June 9, 2025—when we first observed Border Patrol and ICE Special Response teams detaining residents in public spaces and workplaces, including car washes, Home Depot locations, parks, and major streets —our community has faced violent and escalating enforcement actions. While there may be a temporary lull in Border Patrol activity, we continue to receive weekly reports of ICE surveillance and detentions in Anaheim. Many families are still actively working to secure the release of their loved ones from detention. Anaheim has already demonstrated leadership through the Anaheim Contigo Fund, which has provided critical assistance to hundreds of families facing hardship. However, as city staff have acknowledged, the program remains limited in scope and resources —particularly in meeting the growing demand for legal representation. Access to legal defense is a matter of due process and fundamental fairness. Individuals facing deportation without legal counsel are far less likely to successfully navigate complex immigration proceedings, even when they may have valid claims to remain in the United States. We also encourage the City to declare a state of emergency to unlock additional funding. It is apparent that we are currently experiencing a humanitarian disaster, characterized by a severe scarcity of resources and a devastating wave of family separations. The mass, often illegal, federal enforcement operations have a catastrophic impact on community stability, parallel to that of a natural disaster. As Los Angeles County and neighboring cities have recognized, a disaster demands an emergency response. The priority must shift from routine budgeting to supporting the material well-being and safety of residents in a disaster. This means unlocking discretionary funds and responsibly reallocating lower -priority spending such as social events that many in our terrified community are too afraid to attend —toward urgent human needs. Grounded in community leadership, OCRRN collaborates with trusted local legal service providers —including the OC Public Defender's Office, Public Law Center, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, CAIR-LA, and the UCI Immigrant and Racial Justice Solidarity Clinic —to expand access to legal representation and support families through participatory defense strategies. Our network has a strong track record of advancing community -centered policies and legal protections. Most recently, we supported the documentation of unlawful DHS encounters through the Perdomo-Vasquez v. Noem litigation; helped advance a more effective and accessible U Visa policy in the City of Santa Ana; and advocated for both the Ayuda Sin Fronteras emergency fund and the renewal of the Santa Ana Immigrant Legal Defense Fund. We have since expanded this defense fund model to neighboring cities including Costa Mesa, Buena Park, and Irvine —as well as to the County of Orange. Anaheim has been deeply impacted by immigration enforcement activity, and the need for action is urgent. Across Orange County, cities are recognizing this moment and taking steps to protect their communities. Families in our city are facing sudden detentions, separation, and extremely limited access to legal support —often with little time to respond. Most recently, the City of Irvine approved the creation of a legal aid fund to connect immigrant families with attorneys and ensure timely access to representation —reinforcing the importance of due process and community safety. We urge the City of Anaheim to join this growing regional effort by establishing a dedicated immigration legal defense fund. Doing so will provide critical protection for residents, strengthen families, and uphold the values of fairness and justice in your community. Sincerely, Sandra De Anda Director of Policy and Legal Strategy Casey Conway Director of Organizing Kelsey Gordon Director of Advocacy Karen G. Hernandez Managing Director Date: 3/24/2026 3:01:39 PM From: "Amina Fields" aFieldsC,cair.com To: "Public Corrurient" publiccomment@anaheimnet Cc: "Aliya Yousuli" AYousufi@cair.com, 'Kasha Janil" BJamilCcair.eom Subject: [EXTERNAL] Letter of Support for the Anaheim Immigration Legal Defense Fund Attachment: CAIR Letter to Anaheim City Council 3.24.2026.pdf; You don't often get email from afields@cair.com L.eam a lly this is mVortant 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. Dear City Council Members, Please find attached a letter in support of the Anaheim Immigration Legal Defense Fund. Amina Fields I Immigrants' Rights Senior Managing Attorney Council on American -Islamic Relations, California Greater Los Angeles Area Office 2180 W. Crescent Ave., Ste. F I Anaheim, CA 92801 www.cairla.org 1 714.776.1177 "Disclaimer. This email may contain confidential and privileged material, including attachments, for the sole use ofthe intended recipient(s) named above. Please do not review, use, copy, forward, or in any stay distribute or disclose the contents of this e-mail including any attachments unless you are the intended recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or authorized to receive this message for the recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and delete all copies of this message. This email does not by itself establish an attomey-client relationship, and may not constitute legal advice. In the Name of God, The Compassionate, The Merciful CAIR CALIFORNIA March 24, 2026 Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and Members of City Council City of Anaheim 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. Anaheim, CA 92805 Council on American -Islamic Relations Greater Los Angeles Office 2180 W. Crescent Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801 Tel. 714.776.1 847 ca.cair.com RE: Item 28 — Urgent Request to Establish a City -Supported Immigration Legal Defense Fund Dear Mayor Aitken and Members of the Anaheim City Council, On behalf of the Council on American -Islamic Relations, we urge the City of Anaheim to establish a dedicated immigration legal defense fund to support residents and families impacted by ongoing immigration enforcement raids in the amount of $100,000 or more. Anaheim has already demonstrated leadership through the Anaheim Contigo Fund, which has provided critical assistance to hundreds of families facing hardship. However, as city staff have acknowledged, the current program is limited in scope and resources, particularly when it comes to addressing the growing need for legal representation. Legal defense is a matter of due process and fundamental fairness. Without access to legal counsel, individuals facing deportation are significantly less likely to be able to navigate complex immigration proceedings, even when they may have valid claims to remain in the country. At the same time, Anaheim has been deeply impacted by immigration enforcement activity. Across Orange County, cities are recognizing the urgency of this moment and stepping up to protect their communities. Most recently, the City of Irvine approved the creation of a legal aid fund to connect immigrant families with attorneys and provide immediate representation, emphasizing the importance of due process and community safety. If Anaheim acts now, it would join a growing list of cities including Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and Irvine that are investing in legal defense infrastructure to ensure residents are not left to face detention and deportation alone. We respectfully urge the City Council to establish a immigration legal defense fund in the amount of $100,000, ensuring it provides timely access to legal representation, including intake, screenings, and direct legal services. The City should partner with trusted community -based organizations and legal service providers to ensure services are delivered efficiently and in a timely manner. At a time when fear and uncertainty are rising, Anaheim has the opportunity to lead with compassion, fairness, and a commitment to justice. Sincerely, Amina Fields, Esq. Senior Managing Attorney for the Immigrants' Rights Center WASHINGTON D.C. ALABAMA • ARIZONA • CALIFORNIA • CONNECTICUT • FLORIDA • GEORGIA • ILLINOIS • KANSAS • MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN . MINNESOTA. MISSOURI . NEW JERSEY . NEW YORK . OHIO • OREGON . PENNSYLVANIA . TEXAS • WASHINGTON Date: 3/24/2026 3:31:02 PM From: "Norma Palacios" npalacios@caimrrdgrant.org To: "Public Comment" publiccommentCanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] CIPC Written Public Comment in Support of Agenda item 28 — Urgent Request to Establish a City - Supported imnigration Legal Defense Fund You don't often get email from npalacios@caimnigrant.org. Learn why this is i =ortant 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. Dear Mayor Aitken and Members of the Anaheim City Council, My name is Norma Palacios and I write on behalf of the California Immigrant Policy Center (CIPC) to express our support on Agenda Item 28 urging the City of Anaheim to establish a dedicated immigration legal defense fund to support residents and families impacted by ongoing immigration enforcement raids in the estimated range of $50,000 to $100,000. CIPC is a statewide immigrant rights organization advocating for policies that uphold the humanity of immigrants and refugees. Anaheim has already demonstrated leadership through the Anaheim Contigo Fund, which has provided critical assistance to hundreds of families facing economic hardships. However, the current program is limited in scope and resources, particularly when it comes to addressing the growing need for legal representation. Legal defense is a lifeline for immigrants facing deportation by ensuring that their fundamental legal rights are protected and there is fairness in the outcome of their case. Studies have shown that people with legal counsel in immigration detention are up to 10 times more likely to obtain relief than those without a lawyer. Without access to legal counsel, individuals facing deportation are unable to navigate complex immigration proceedings, which can result in unjust removals. Today, the Orange County Board of Supervisors held the annual TRUTH Act hearing where community members raised concerns regarding the high number of county residents- over 200 immigrants, mostly from Mexico and Vietnam- who have been transferred to Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) by the sheriff department. These are community members who are in desperate need of legal services to ensure they have the opportunity to make their case to remain in the U.S. where they have created a life for themselves and their families. Across the county, cities are recognizing the urgency of this moment and have moved forward with establishing legal services funds Most recently, the City of Irvine approved the creation of a legal aid fund to connect immigrant families with attorneys and provide immediate representation, emphasizing the importance of due process and community safety. Anaheim must follow the footsteps of cities like Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and Irvine that are investing in legal defense infrastructure to ensure residents are not left to face detention and deportation alone. For these reasons, we respectfully urge the City Council to establish an immigration legal defense fund so immigrants facing deportation could have access to legal representation. We also request that the City partner with trusted community -based organizations and legal service providers to ensure services are delivered efficiently and in a timely manner. At a time when immigrant communities are facing fear and uncertainty, Anaheim has the opportunity to lead with compassion, fairness, and a commitment to justice. Thank you for the consideration of our position. Sincerely, Norma Palacios Norma Palaclos Statevtide Organizing Manager C3 California Immigrant Policy Center e: npalacios(d),caimmigrant.ora w: caimmigrant.org I ginq000 Date: 3/24/2026 3:35:56 PM From: "Theresa Bass" To: "Public Comment" publiccom anent@anaheimnet Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Letter of Support - Agenda Item 28 03/24/2028 Council Meeting Attachment: 03.24.2026 AnaheimContigoCoumcilUmbe►gLOS.pdf, From: Ochoa, David <David.Ochoa@sen.ca.gov> Sent: Tuesday, March 24, 20263:34 PM To: Theresa Bass <TBass@anaheim.net> Cc: Gonzalez, Ana <Ana.Gonzalez@sen.ca.gov>; Massey, Justin <Justin.Massey@sen.ca.gov> Subject: [EXTERNAL] LetterofSupport- Agenda Item 28 03/24/2028 Council Meeting IYou don't often g2t emal from david.ochoaCc sen.ca.-v. I�vn why this is important 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 Madam Clerk, am attaching a letter of support from Senator Umberg to the Anaheim City Council for Agenda Item 28 on tonight's agenda. Please let me know if there are any questions! Sincerely, David Ochoa I Senior District Representative Office of Senator Tom Umberg 0:714-558-3785 .4Torn Umberg 1 Representing the 34th District Website I Facebook I X I Instagram I Threads CAPITOL OFFICE 1021 O STREET SUITE 6610 SACRAMENTO. CA 95814 19161 651-4034 DISTRICT OFFICE 1000 E. SANTA ANA BLVD. SUITE 220B SANTA ANA. CA 92701 (714) 558-3785 W W W-SENATE.CA-GOV/U MBERG SENATOR_ UMBERG@SENATE. CA. GOV March 24, 2026 %Latifarnia �4att ,, e&m ztt SENATOR THOMAS J. UMBERG THIRTY-FOURTH SENATE DISTRICT Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and members of the Anaheim City Council Anaheim City Hall 200 S. Anaheim Blvd., 7th Floor Anaheim, CA 92805 STANDING COMMITTEES JUDICIARY CHAIR BUSINESS, PROFESSIONS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELECTIONS & CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS MILITARY & VETERANS AFFAIRS PRIVACY. DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND CONSUMER PROTECTION SPECIAL COMMITTEE INTERNATIONAL SPORTING EVENTS RE: Support for Agenda Item 28: Funding Update on The Anaheim Contigo Program And Consider Establishing An Immigration Legal Defense Component Dear Mayor Aitken, I am writing to express my strong support for tonight's Agenda Item 28 on providing additional funding for Anaheim Contigo and the establishment of an immigration legal defense component for community members facing financial and legal impacts as a result of the federal governments immigration actions. The City of Anaheim is one of our state's most proactive cities in taking on the federal government and protecting its residents. Anaheim Contigo has already proven to be a crucial lifeline for over 300 families in the City, people who would otherwise have faced the unconscionable decision of either eating less so their children would be able to eat enough, or letting bills lapse in the hopes that they can cover other expenses. The federal government's targeting of community members who have been upstanding citizens and neighbors, instead of their stated goal of deporting criminal actors, has put us all on edge. The establishment of a legal defense component will provide legal assistance to those who either are facing deportation or equip them with the tools and knowledge to protect themselves and their loved ones. As a former federal prosecutor, I know that the right to counsel is a crucial pillar of not just our legal system, but also our Constitutional foundation. Representation in court can mean the difference between an unjust deportation and keeping our upstanding neighbors with their families. I want to thank you for your consideration of this letter. If there are any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at Senator. UmbergC@,senate.ca.go, or (961) 651-4034. Sincerely, Thomas J. Umberg California State Senate, District 34 Date: 3/24/2026 3:38:41 PM From: "Pere7, LuisAndres" LuisAndres.Perez*asmca.gov To: "Public Comment" publicconm ent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Anaheim Public Comment Subnisison Attachment: Valencia - Anaheim Legal Defense Fund Support Letter.pdf; You don't often get email from fuisandres.perezCq)asmca.gov. Learn why this is important 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. Hello, My name is LuisAndres Perez I am submitting this letter on behalf of Assemblyman Avelino Valencia in Support of the Anaheim Contingo Legal Defense Component. • LuisAndres Perez, Senior Field Representative for Assemblyman Avelino Valencia. gTfl�.� gyp/ 1�. F( Y O��F C �3':1r'�M Avelino Valencia ASSEMBLYMEMBER, SIXTY EIGHTH DISTRICT March 24, 2026 Mayor Ashleigh Aitken 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. Anaheim, CA 92805 COMMITTEES: CHAIR: BANKING AND FINANCE INSURANCE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS, AND TOURISM MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION California Legislature Re: SUPPORT —Anaheim Contigo Immigration Legal Defense Component Dear Mayor Aitken, City Council: I write to express my strong support for the City Council's consideration of establishing an immigration legal defense component within the Anaheim Contigo program, including the proposed funding in the range of $50,000 to $100,000. There is a clear and growing need for immigration -related legal services in our community. Addressing this need is not only a matter of legal access, but of protecting families, preserving stability, and ensuring every resident is afforded due process and dignity. This proposed partnership with qualified nonprofit legal providers represents a meaningful investment in the well-being of Anaheim residents. It is an opportunity for the City to lead with compassion, responsibility, and commitment to those who call Anaheim home. I respectfully urge the Council to approve this item and move forward with urgency to implement this critical expansion of services. Thank you for your leadership and your continued commitment to the people of Anaheim. In Service, Avelino Valencia Assemblymember, 68th District CAPITOL OFFICE: STATE CAPITOL, P. 0. BOX 942849, SACRAMENTO, CA 94249-0068 • (916) 319-2068 • FAX (916) 319-2168 DISTRICT OFFICE: 2400 EAST KATLLLA AVENUE, SUITE 640 • ANAHEIM. CA 92806 (714) 939-8469 • FAX (714) 939-8986 EMAIL: Assemblymember.Valencia®assembly.ca.gov • WEBSITE: https://a68.asmdc.org Date: 3/24/2026 4:48:58 PM From: "Pat D" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] March 24, 2026 Agenda item 28 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. City Council members, I am unable to attend in person this evening so I am writing to urge the Anaheim City Council to take strong leadership and establish several support services, including this ina igration legal defense fund in the amount of at least $100,000, ensuring it provides tirriely access to legal representation, including intake, screenings, and direct legal services. For many of my precious neighbors, interactions with my igration enforcement have been deeply personal, leaving devastating and lasting irnpacts on families. Anaheim canjoin the leadership of cities like Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Buena Park, and Irvine —where legal providers (PLC, hranDei etc) participated in an RFP process to then hire additional staf—to ensure residents are not left to face detention and deportation alone. I have sadly seen first hard that Anaheim is a hotspot for enforcement actions where agents have taken 30 of our friends at the local Home Depot across 8 raids between June 2025 and January 2026. These are terrifying events! With immigration enforcement funding at a record high, the city mast respond accordingly. As you know, it is likely needs will exceed the proposed $100,000. (Santa Ana spent down $250k within 5 months due to the expenses incurred with numerous, extended cases.) In addition, the City should allocate an additional $250K to Anaheim Contigo. The program is a great first step but needs improvement to adequately support our families and neighbors housing security. Anaheim Contigo needs additional finding. ding. The City should declare a state of emergency to unlock additional finding! We are currently experiencing a county -wide hurr anitanan disaster, characterized by a severe scarcity of resources and a devastating wave of Lolly separations. Our connnumities are facing starvation, myna rent displacemerit, educational disruption, and a widespread deprivation of the constitutionally guaranteed right to due process. The muss, often illegal, federal enforcement operations have a catastrophic impact on coninntty stability, parallel to that of a natural disaster. The priority must shift from routine budgeting to supporting the material well-being and safety of residents in a disaster. This means unlocking discretionary fin -ids ds and responsibly reallocating lower -priority spendnng—reach as social events and photo opps that many in our terrified comnnnity are too afraid to attend —toward urgent human needs! The comnnmity is paying attention amd at a tins when fear and uncertainty are rising, Anaheim has the opportunity to lead with compassion. I care about this city and our f mils, and ask that you listen to the people and take action to protect our families and neighbors! Finally, I would love to have been in the 'Yoom" tonite, but am unable to do so. Therefore, I also ask that you implement SB707 - The Brown Act requirements!! ! Be a leader here as well and offer hybrid, real time access to your meetings NOW! Thank you, Pat Davis (she/they) District I Resident Date: 3/24/2026 4:53:50 PM From "Sarah Kahn" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet, "Karen Hernandez" karenghernandez@gmail.com Subject: [EXTERNAL] Public Comment Agenda Item #28 You don't often get email from Learnwh�mportant 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. Dear Anaheim City Council Men -bets, I write in support of establishing an irnnigration legal defense fiord in the amount of $100,000+, ensuring it provides timely access to legal representation, including intake, screenings, and direct legal services. For a year, we have watched our conynmities devastated by brutal, lawless "nnYngation enforcement" - people dragged from their homes, their schools, their places ofworship and transported to prisons, sometimms across the country. The conditions of these prisons and the obstruction of access to counsel is not a mistake. They are abducting people with legal status - work authorization, deferred action, pending petitions. They are arresting people with a right to seek lawful status - people with close fat* relationships, Wes they've spent decades building in the US, military fu* members, asylurA CAT, and refugee claims. That they are arresting people whom the government has prornised protection is not a mistake. That they are transporting them to distant prisons and rushing them through proceedings, if they provide any at all, is riot a mistake. The brutal conditions of these prisons and difficulty of affording counsel are designed to instill despair so that they can coerce people into agreeing to their own unlawful deportation It is our responsibility as a comnu- ty and our government's responsibility to protect our neighbors. It is imperative that people have representation Whether a person has an attorney is by far the most important factor in whether they are deported. As an attorney, I have seen countless cases where a person had a legitimate claimto legal protection and simply didn't have the resources to articulate it to the judge. That rneans that Anaheim residents are being deported simply for lack of an attorney. I strongly support establishing a legal defense fiord. Additionally, I support the following steps: 1. partner with trusted comnitnity--based organizations and legal service providers 2. allocate at least $1 OOK to an immigration legal defense fiord 3. allocate anadditional $250K to Anaheim Contigo 4. declare a state of emergency to unlock additional funding. Sincerely, Sarah Kahn Date: 3/24/2026 4:59:38 PM From: "Allison Vo" "Public Comment" publiccommentCanaheimnet, "Natalie Rubalcava" NRubalcava aanaheimnet, "Mayors Office" To: MayorsOffice(a.)anaheimnet "Valeria Sandoval" VSandovalCanaheimnet, "Daniel Hernandez" DHernandez6(aanaheimnet, "Berenice Ballinas" Cc: BBallinas@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda Item#28: Support for Immigration Legal Defense Fund You don't often get emaa from Learn why this is nnportant 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. March 24, 2026 Anaheim City Council 200 S. Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805 RE: Agenda Item #28 Good afternoon Mayor and City Councilmembers, My name is Allison Vo and I am a resident of District 3. 1 am writing to express my strong support for the establishment of an immigration legal defense fund to support Anaheim residents. In order to ensure timely access to thorough legal representation, I urge you to allocate at least $100,000 for this vital initiative. Access to legal counsel for our immigrant and refugee residents ensures equal access to justice. It provides a critical lifeline against federal immigration enforcement's aggressive tactics and overreach. Current federal policies and actions have signaled their i ntent to arrest, imprison, and disappear as many immigrants and refugees as possible. With the "One Big Beautiful Bill" inflating the DHS budget and the Supreme Court legitimizing racial profiling, our community is living in a reality where fear, uncertainty, and state violence permeate daily life. An immigration legal defense fund is a crucial safeguard for the constitutional right to due process, especially during a political moment where the human rights of immigrants and refugees are being systematically challenged. urge this council to take the following actions: Allocate a minimum of $100,000 to the immigration legal defense fund Partner with trusted community based organizations and legal services providers through a public RFP process to ensure effective and timely delivery of services Declare a state of emergency to unlock additional funding and re -allocate resources from public events to support the safety and wellbeing of residents facing the combined pressures of immigration enforcement, the high cost of living, and unaffordable rent Allocate an additional $250,000 to Anaheim Contigo to increase direct financial support for our residents facing hardship Thank you for your time and commitment to the safety of all Anaheim residents. Sincerely, Allison Vo Allison Vo Date: 3/5/2026 8:18:54 AM From To Subject: [EXTERNAL] Dangers online predators real interaction chiildren's games 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. 03-05-2026 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsJ/www.novinfo.nov/content/pka/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org To whom it may concern Shawn Ryan Show Shared with Public Follow "This is literally like Tinder, and when you match someone you get a private chat with them. That was like five seconds and someone was already trying to message and move the conversation off -platform. They're probably going to try to get us on Snapchat or Discord. This is what people are wanting to do to your kids on this game, and it's already happening almost instantly." #shawnryanshow #podcast #crime #police #roblox #parenting #didyouknow #onlinegaming See less Facebook 3/5/2026 8:18:58 PM Date: From: To Cc: Subject: [EXTERNAL] 1. Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time;66d0782166347d6ddee660f8_SUI Screening Handout.pdf;House Resolution No. 28-Relative to humane education.pdf;hoag_and ir,ine_unified_speaker setie s_1_gaming_social_media_and_mental_"ellness_presentation Attachment (5)'�'SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. (1).pdf;Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ.pdFResolution Addressing Social Media Use Screen Time and Mental Health_Approved 2025.03.26 For Sharing (1).pdf;BOH Resolution Press Release _Screen Time April 2025 (2).doex;Laguna Beach Unified School District, screen time.pdf;LGUBSD SCREEN TIME Approval of Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time.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. 03-05-2026 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SOCIALEMOTIO NAL PAINS.CO M FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsd/vvww.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org Haldor Larum 1 Sergeant Irvine Police Department 1 Mental Health Unit 1 DRE Coordinator 949-724-7400 1 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606 hlarum@cityofirvine.org 1 cityofirvine.org To whom it may concern Requesting support for a summit at Valley High School 1801 South Greenville St. Santa Ana, CA 92704-4005, awareness education K-12 suicide prevention such as CA State introduce a bill AB- 2003 Pupil health: suicide prevention.(2025-2026) Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great opportunity for Nome - Valley High School Existing law requires the State Department of Education to identify an evidence -based online training program that a county office of education, school district, state special school, or charter school that serves pupils in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, can use to train school staff and pupils as part of their policy on pupil suicide prevention. Existing law requires the department, subject to an appropriation for these purposes, to provide a grant to a county office of education to acquire a training program identified by the department and disseminate that training program at no cost to specified educational entities, as specified. This bill would revise and recast these provisions by (1) deleting the requirement to provide the above -described grant, (2) deleting the requirement of the department to identify the above - described evidence -based online training program, (3) instead requiring the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission to develop an online training program to train school staff, parents, and pupils of county offices of education, school districts, state special schools, and charter schools that serve pupils in kindergarten or in any of grades 1 to 12, inclusive, on pupil suicide prevention, as specified. The bill would require those educational entities that elect to conduct suicide risk screenings to report data on these screenings to the department, as provided, and would require the department to compile and post statewide aggregate data on these screenings on its internet website, as provided. https://Ieginig.legil atur a a.gc�v/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill id=202520260AB2003 The opportunity to collectively work as County effort than having multiple groups attempt to research to gather information the work has been done, below are movies, presentation with Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad as a speaker about hope squad. Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Seeking support of Santa Ana School District to utilize the Valley high school new medial academy creating opportunities to develop material to promote awareness campaign with social media etc. https://val ley.sa usd.ust Seek Orange County Behavior Health funding and CA State prop 63 funding under CA State 638 year was 2021-2022 Hope Squad etc. Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time The Washington Post's report on the relationship between screen time and happiness among children and adolescents highlights that less screen time is associated with higher happiness levels. The study, conducted by the University of Michigan, found that adolescents who spent less than 20 hours a week on screens were happier than those who used screens for 20 or more hours a week. The findings suggest that the more hours day teens spend in front of screens, the less satisfied they are, and that the correlation between happiness and screen activities is uniformly negative. The report also indicates that the happiest teens are those who get a small amount of exposure to screen time, between one and five hours a week. Washington post children happiest less screen time - Search Children are generally happier and have better mental well-being with less than one hour of daily screen time, as excessive use (over 4-7 hours) is strongly linked to anxiety and depression. Prioritizing active, after -school, or face-to-face social activities instead of digital media significantly increases emotional well-being https://www.google.com/search? q=childern+happist+less+screen+time&riz=1C1ONGR enUS1178US1178&oq=childem+happist+les s+screen+time&gs Icrp=EgZiaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRifBTIHCA1QIRifBTIHCAMQIRifBTIHCA QQIRifBTI HCAUQIRifBTI HCAYQI RifBTI HCAcQI RifBTI HCAgQIRifBTIHCAkQIRifBd IBCDU3MzBgMGoxgA1 AsAIABsou rceid=chrome &ie= UT F-8 Depression Screen Time and Mental Health in Kids High levels of screen time can be problematic for kids' mental health. https://www.psychoiogytoday.com/usiblogrinner-source/202411 /screen-time-and-mental-health4n- kids Teens who spend less time in front of screens are happier — up to AS 2003, as introduced, Berman. Pupil health: suicide prevention. Existing law requires the State Department of Education to identify an evidence -based online training program that a county office of education, school district, state special school, or charter school that serves pupils in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, can use to train school staff and pupils as part of their policy on pupil suicide prevention. Existing law requires the department, subject to an appropriation for these purposes, to provide a grant to a county office of education to acquire a training program identified by the department and disseminate that training program at no cost to specified educational entities, as specified. Bill Text - AB-2003 Pupil health: suicide prevention. Show the Screenagers movies in your school or community The impact of this digital age has led to rapid increases in levels of mental health challenges among youth. Through our movies, resources and initiatives, we aim to play our part in restoring the balance. Screenagers Movie I Screen In Your Community The Screenagers Podcast Screenagers Movie I Host a Screening Screenagers Movie I Resources Parents Handout SUI draft April 19 Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary A new Bloomberg documentary, "Can't Look Away;' investigates the dark side of social media for teens and the growing fight to hold tech companies accountable. Bloomberg investigative reporter Olivia Carville, who is an executive producer of the film, talks about her reporting in the documentary. Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain Why Book Screen Strong? We do not compromise the truth or bend to culture. We provide the gold standard for parents & schools. When you choose Screen Strong, you're embarking on a journey to bring back harmony to your family in today's digital world. We offer practical solutions and evidence -backed insights that empower listeners to tackle screen time challenges with confidence. On our podcast and in media interviews, Screen Strong isn't just about talk; we're about making a genuine impact. Our goal is clear. to help families break free from screen addiction and build stronger, healthier connections. Book Workshop I Screen Strong I Screen Strong Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Hoag Speaker Series Event: Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Bing Videos Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Screen time 160 Minutes Archive Screen time J 60 Minutes Archive The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 Free The Anxious Generation Free The Anxious Generation Can't Look Away: The Case Against Social Media Gant Look Away: The Case Against Social Media Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families Parenting Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families Parenting IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation J IUSD.org HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Explore the impact technology has on adolescent behavior and brain development during this educational discussion hosted by Hoag Hospital and Capistrano Unified. Read the FULL STORY on CUSD Insider. http://cusdinsider.org/cusd-and-hoag-... SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/CUSDYouTube HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great opportunity for Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great opportunity for Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Australia. Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Austr Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts J KCUR - Kansas City news and NPR Home - Valley High School I'm available to assist for free by phone if you have any question just call me at Thank You Craig Durfey Date: 3/20/2026 10:58:48 AM To: Subject: Attachment: Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ.pdf;SCR-73 Blue LightAwareness Day. (1).pdf;Hope Squad One-Pager.pdf;Grant Support Document 2025 (1).pdf;Grant Support Document 2025.pdf;Hope Squad Pricing - 2025-2026 School Year.pdf; hoag_and_irvine_unified_speaker_series_1_gaming_social_media_and_mental_wellness_presentation (5).pdf;House Resolution No. 28-Relative to humane education.pdf;66d0782166347d6ddce660f8_SUI Screening Handout.pdf; (P. R. D. D. C. ) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS.COM FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING i nAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialernotionalpaws.org Haldor Larum I Sergeant Irvine Police Department I Mental Health Unit I DIRE Coordinator 949-724-7400 1 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606 hlarum@cityofirvine.org I cityofirvine.org Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time The Washington Post's report on the relationship between screen time and happiness among children and adolescents highlights that less screen time is associated with higher happiness levels. The study, conducted by the University of Michigan, found that adolescents who spent less than 20 hours a week on screens were happier than those who used screens for 20 or more hours a week. The findings suggest that the more hours a day teens spend in front of screens, the less satisfied they are, and that the correlation between happiness and screen activities is uniformly negative. The report also indicates that the happiest teens are those who get a small amount of exposure to screen time, between one and five hours a week. washingtion post childern happist less screen time - Search Children are generally happier and have better mental well-being with less than one hour of daily screen time , as excessive use (over 4 07 hours) is strongly linked to anxiety and depression. Prioritizing active, after -school, or face-to-face social activities instead of digital media significantly increases emotional well-being hit ps:iiwww.googie.comisearclh"?q=childern+happist+less+screen +time&riz=1 C1 ONGR_enUS1178US11788.oq=childern+happist+less+screen +time&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTI HCAEQIRifBTIHCA1QIRifBTIHCAMQI RifBT IHCAQQIRifBTIHCAUQIRifBTIHCAYQIRifBTIHCAcQIRifBTIHCAgQIRifBTIHCAkQIRifBdIBCDU 3MzBgMGoxgAlAsAlABsourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8 Depression Screen Time and Mental Health in Kids High levels of screen time can be problematic for kids' mental health. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inner-source/202411 /screen -time -and - mental -health -in -kids Teens who spend less time in front of screens are happier A up to AB 2003, as introduced, Berman. Pupil health: suicide prevention. Existing law requires the State Department of Education to identify an evidence -based online training program that a county office of education, school district, state special school, or charter school that serves pupils in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, can use to train school staff and pupils as part of their policy on pupil suicide prevention. Existing law requires the department, subject to an appropriation for these purposes, to provide a grant to a county office of education to acquire a training program identified by the department and disseminate that training program at no cost to specified educational entities, as specified. Bill Text - AB-2003 Pu health: suicide prevention. Show the Screenagers movies in your school or community The impact of this digital age has led to rapid increases in levels of mental health challenges among youth. Through our movies, resources and initiatives, we aim to play our part in restoring the balance. Screenagers Movie I Screen In Your Community The Screenagers Podcast Screenagers Movie Host a Screening Screenagers Movie Resources Parents Handout SUI draft april 19 Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary A new Bloomberg documentary, "Can't Look Away," investigates the dark side of social media for teens and the growing fight to hold tech companies accountable. Bloomberg investigative reporter Olivia Carville, who is an executive producer of the film, talks about her reporting in the documentary. Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain Why Book ScreenStrong ? We do not compromise the truth or bend to culture. We provide the gold standard for parents & schools. When you choose ScreenStrong , you Are embarking on a journey to bring back harmony to your family in today Os digital world. We offer practical solutions and evidence -backed insights that empower listeners to tackle screen time challenges with confidence. On our podcast and in media interviews, ScreenStrong isn Ot just about talk; we Ore about making a genuine impact. Our goal is clear: to help families break free from screen addiction and build stronger, healthier connections. Book Workshop I ScreenStrong I ScreenStrong Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Gamina. Social Media and Mental Wellness Hoag Speaker Series Event: Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Bing Videos Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Screen time 160 Minutes Archive Screen time 1 60 Minutes Archive The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 Free The Anxious Generation Free The Anxious Generation Can't Look Away: The Case Against Social Media Can't Look Awav: The Case Aqainst Social Media Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families Parenting Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation IUSO.org HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Explore the impact technology has on adolescent behavior and brain development during this educational discussion hosted by Hoag Hospital and Capistrano Unified. Read the FULL STORY on CUSD Insider: http://cusdinsider.org/cusd-and-hoag-... SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/CUSDYouTube HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Danqers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Rose. a senior at Northwood Hiah mental health with Hone Sauad Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great oportunity for Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great oportunity for Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Australia. Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Austr Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts I KCUR - Kansas City news and NPR Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time WHEREAS, the Board of Education of Laguna Beach Unified School District is committed to supporting the health, well-being, and academic success of all students; and WHEREAS, research indicates that excessive computer screen time may negatively impact student health, including sleep, vision, attention, and social -emotional well-being, while balanced and purposeful technology use can enhance learning and engagement; and WHEREAS, the district recognizes that technology is an essential tool for 21st-century learning, but that such use must be developmentally appropriate, intentional, and aligned with instructional best practices; and WHEREAS, teachers, staff, parents, and students have expressed interest in strategies that provide a healthy balance between digital learning and non -screen activities such as reading, writing, discussion, collaboration, hands-on projects, physical movement, and creative expression; and WHEREAS, the district is committed to fostering an environment that develops responsible digital citizens and models healthy technology habits; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education of Laguna Beach Unified School District supports district efforts to: 1. Review and monitor classroom practices and curricular expectations to ensure that student screen time is optimized for learning and minimized where unnecessary. 2. Develop districtwide guidelines for age -appropriate, instructional use of technology that balance screen-based and non -screen-based learning activities. 3. Provide professional development for teachers and staff on effective strategies to balance technology integration with non -digital instructional practices. 4. Collect and analyze data on student screen time across grade levels and subjects to guide decision -making. 5. Collaborate with families to promote healthy screen use at home and at school. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board directs the Superintendent to report annually on district progress toward optimizing student screen time, including successes, challenges, and next steps. PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Governing Board on September 11, 2025, by the following vote: AYES: Members: NOES: Members: ABSENT: Members: STATE OF CALIFORNIA ss COUNTY OF ORANGE Dee Perry LBUSD Board President Agenda Item Details Meeting Sep 11, 2025 - REGULAR MEETING - BUSINESS MEETING - REVISED SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 9:55 A.M. AND 3:00 P.M. Category 11. ACTION ITEMS - TECHNOLOGY Subject A. Approval of Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time Type Action Fiscal Impact No Recommended Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Action Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Public Comment via electronic submission may be submitted no later than Thursday, September 11, 2025, by 12:00 p.m. via the following link: Public Comment Form September 11, 2025 Background Staff will present the Board with Resolution No. 25-20, which supports efforts to optimize computer screen time and reduce excessive computer screen time. Laguna Beach Unified School District has been studying student technology use closely and has identified trends showing increases in daily screen exposure. While digital tools play an important role in instruction and help meet state standards, staff have also raised concerns about the potential effects of excessive screen use on student health, attention, and engagement. This resolution reinforces the district's commitment to ensuring technology use is both purposeful and developmentally appropriate. The resolution outlines the district's intent to review instructional practices, create districtwide guidelines for age - appropriate use, and provide professional development for staff to balance technology integration with hands-on and face-to-face learning. It also emphasizes partnering with families to support healthy use of devices at home and monitoring data to guide decisions. By adopting this resolution, the Board affirms its commitment to supporting student well-being, fostering responsible digital citizenship, and maintaining a balance between the benefits of technology and the importance of offline learning experiences Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time - Google Docs.pdf (73 KB) Motion & Voting Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Motion by Joan Malczewski, second by Sheri Morgan. Final Resolution: Motion Carried Yes: Jim Kelly, Joan Malczewski, Dee Perry, Sheri Morgan, Howard Hills �. ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH RESOLUTION ADDRESSING SOCIAL MEDIA USE, SCREEN TIME, AND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH WHEREAS, according to a recent survey one-third of all teens report being online and using social media platforms "almost constantly";' and WHEREAS, a 2023 U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory warned that while social media may offer benefits, there is growing evidence of risks to youth mental health including anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of sleep;2 and WHEREAS, studies have found correlations between time spent on social media and mental health including one study that found risk of anxiety and depression doubled in youth that spent more than three hours daily on social media;3 and WHEREAS, adolescence represents a critical time in the brain development and studies have reported social media may result in addictive behavior, decreased attention span, and lower test scores-4.5.6 and WHEREAS, growing reports suggest social media can expose youth to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and heavily edited comparisons that can lead to eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, and suicidal ideation,-6 and WHEREAS, evidence -based strategies to reduce the risks of social media include implementing device -free school policies, setting screen -time limits at home, avoiding screens before bedtime, and educating families about the psychological effects of social media,67,8 and WHEREAS, time spent on social media and screens decreases time for exercise, sleep, in -person time with friends, and other activities that are thought to improve mental health and healthy social development (for youth and adults).2,3,4,5,6 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED on this 26th day of March 2025, that we the Orange County Board of Health: 1. Recognize social media use among youth as a significant public health concern and mental health risk. 2. Recommend parents and caregivers establish screen -time limits for their children/teens, particularly restricting device use on school nights and before bedtime, to promote healthy sleep habits. 3. Urge parents to consider delaying getting their children smartphones and exploring pledges with other parents like the "Wait Until 8th" initiative.9 4. Encourage parents and young people to explore the resources listed below to further understand the impact of digital technology on youth development. 5. Support "Away for the Day" policies in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools that restrict personal device use during school hours to support focus and well-being. 6. Suggest Orange County school districts or the county explore joining ongoing class action lawsuits against social media companies, with the goals of funding additional mental health services for youth and/or requiring social media companies to improve their age verification and parental controls.10 7. Support the countywide adoption of "Screen -Free Week" during May 5-11, 2025, as observed by Chapel Hill- Carrboro City Schools and encourage parents and children of the county to participate.', 8. Support statewide legislation, such as Senate Bill 55, that would join NC with other states in requiring school districts to have policies around use of cellphones during the day and nationwide legislation that would require social media companies to have more effective age/parental consent verification. 12.13 9. Support educational efforts that inform families, schools, and policymakers about the risks of social media use and the importance of digital wellness. Alison Stuebe, MD, MSc 4QintaLna Stewart, MPA Chair, Orange County Board of Health Orange County Health Director 919 245 2405 > 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, NC 27278 > orangecountync.gov Page 1 of 2 ORANGE COUNT`' HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 1. Sidoti, Michelle Faverio and Olivia. "Teens, Social Media and Technology 2024." Pew Research Center (blog), December 12, 2024. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/12/12/teens-social-media-and- technology-2024/. 2. U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health (2023). https://www. hhs.gov/su rgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth-mental-health/social-media/index. html 3. Riehm KE, Feder KA, Tormohlen KN, Crum RM, Young AS, Green KM, Pacek LR, La Flair LN, Mojtabai R. "Associations Between Time Spent Using Social Media and Internalizing and Externalizing Problems Among US Youth." JAMA Psychiatry. 2019 Dec 1;76(12):1266-1273. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.2325. https:// pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6739732/ 4. Lissak, Gadi. "Adverse Physiological and Psychological Effects of Screen Time on Children and Adolescents: Literature Review and Case Study." Environmental Research 164 (July 2018): 149-57. https://doi.org/10.1016/m.envres.2018.01.015. 5. Twenge, Jean. iGen: Why Today's Super -Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy --and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood --and What That Means for the Rest of Us. (2017). 6. Haidt, Jonathan. The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness. (2024). 7. Muppalla, Sudheer Kumar, Sravya Vuppalapati, Apeksha Reddy Pulliahgaru, and Himabindu Sreenivasulu. "Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development: An Updated Review and Strategies for Management." Cureus 15, no. 6 (June 2023): e40608. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40608. 8. American Psychological Association, "Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence" (2023). https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use 9. Wait Until 8th. "Wait Until 8th." Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.waituntil8th.org."Wait Until 8th" Campaign, www.waituntil8th.org. 10. Scofield, Sydnee. "Wake County school board joins lawsuit against social media giants." ABC 11 News, February 20, 2024. Accessed March 20, 2025. https://abcl l .com/social-media-lawsuit-wake-county-schools- board-of-education/14450653/ 11. Screen -Free Week. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://screenfree.org/about/ 12. "NC Senate Bill 55, Student Use of Wireless Communication Devices." NC General Assembly. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncleg.gov/BilILookUp/2025/S55 13. "Social Media and Children 2024 Legislation." National Conference of State Legislatures.Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncsl.org/technology-and-communication/social-media-and-children-2024-legislation. Scan this QR code with your phone or go to https://drive.googIe.com/file/d/16BIFTyyRehshQKjldeMP19k5JZIzL05G/view?usp=sharing to access live resource links 919 245 2405 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, INC 27278 orangecountync.gov Page 2 of 2 GRANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Libbie Hough Communications Manager and Public Information Officer Office: 919-245-2562; Cell: (hough@orangecountync.gov Orange County Board of Health Champions Youth Mental Health with Resolution on Screen Time HILLSBOROUGH, NC (April 29, 2025) — In recognition of growing concerns over the effects of excessive screen time and social media use on youth mental health, the Orange County Board of Health unanimously approved a resolution aimed at promoting healthier screen habits among children and adolescents. Timed to coincide with Screen -Free Week (May 5-11, 2025), a national celebration that encourages children, families, schools, and communities to enjoy life beyond screens, the resolution highlights the urgent need for local action. Research cited in the resolution, including findings from the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association, underscores the association between excessive screen use and rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among youth. The Orange County Board of Health calls on families, schools, and community organizations to promote balanced technology use and encourages participation in Screen -Free Week activities. The resolution also urges policymakers to support education, advocacy, and community initiatives that help children develop healthier relationships with digital technology. To read the full resolution, visit the Board of Health's webpage. Dr. Amy Fowler, pediatrician, member of the Orange County Board of Health, and Board of County Commissioners emphasized the importance of the resolution: "Many kids I see are spending too much time on screens and it is taking time away from more productive activities like sleep, outdoor play, and engagement with friends and family. As we see screen time increase, we are also seeing its impacts on mental health." Orange County residents are invited to take part in Screen -Free Week events and activities. For more information about Screen -Free Week, visit screenfree.org. The Orange County Health Department exists to enhance quality of life, promote the health, and preserve the environment for everyone in Orange County. For information about the Health Department visit OrangeCountyNC.Gov/Health 300 West Tryon Street I Hillsborough, NC 1 919-245-2400 1 Ora ngeCountyNC.Gov/Health W H Up c 0 F- ,C 0 N W z J W O c 0 E f #+ C O t Q of in n M L C 0 0 4w rrrw 0 CL rah LECISLATT� E INFORM.,MON Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites AB-638 Mental Health Services Act: early intervention and prevention programs. (2021- 2022) SHARE THIS: in X Assembly Bill No. 638 CHAPTER 584 Date Published: 10/07/2021 02:00 PM An act to amend Section 5840 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to mental health, and making an appropriation therefor. Approved by Governor October 06, 2021. Filed with Secretary of State October 06, 2021. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST AB 638, Quirk -Silva. Mental Health Services Act: early intervention and prevention programs. Existing law, the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA), an initiative measure enacted by the voters as Proposition 63 at the November 2, 2004, statewide general election, establishes the continuously appropriated Mental Health Services Fund to fund various county mental health programs and requires counties to spend those funds on mental health services, as specified. The MHSA requires counties to establish a program designed to prevent mental illnesses from becoming severe and disabling and authorizes counties to use funds designated for prevention and early intervention to broaden the provision of those community -based mental health services by adding prevention and early intervention services or activities. Existing law authorizes the MHSA to be amended by a 2/3 vote of the Legislature if the amendments are consistent with, and further the purposes of, the MHSA. This bill would amend the MHSA by including in the prevention and early intervention services authorized to be provided, prevention and early intervention strategies that address mental health needs, substance misuse or substance use disorders, or needs relating to cooccurring mental health and substance use services. By authorizing a new use for continuously appropriated funds, this bill would make an appropriation. The bill would state the finding and declaration of the Legislature that this change is consistent with, and furthers the intent of, the MHSA. Vote: 2/3 Appropriation: yes Fiscal Committee: yes Local Program: no THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Section 5840 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: 5840. (a) The State Department of Health Care Services, in coordination with counties, shall establish a program designed to prevent mental illnesses from becoming severe and disabling. The program shall emphasize improving timely access to services for underserved populations. (b) The program shall include the following components: (1) Outreach to families, employers, primary care health care providers, and others to recognize the early signs of potentially severe and disabling mental illnesses. (2) Access and linkage to medically necessary care provided by county mental health programs for children with severe mental illness, as defined in Section 5600.3, and for adults and seniors with severe mental illness, as defined in Section 5600.3, as early in the onset of these conditions as practicable. (3) Reduction in stigma associated with either being diagnosed with a mental illness or seeking mental health services. (4) Reduction in discrimination against people with mental illness. (c) The program shall include mental health services similar to those provided under other programs that are effective in preventing mental illnesses from becoming severe, and shall also include components similar to programs that have been successful in reducing the duration of untreated severe mental illnesses and assisting people in quickly regaining productive lives. (d) The program shall emphasize strategies to reduce the following negative outcomes that may result from untreated mental illness: (1) Suicide. (2) Incarcerations. (3) School failure or dropout. (4) Unemployment. (5) Prolonged suffering. (6) Homelessness. (7) Removal of children from their homes. (e) Prevention and early intervention funds may be used to broaden the provision of community -based mental health services by adding prevention and early intervention services or activities to these services, including prevention and early intervention strategies that address mental health needs, substance misuse or substance use disorders, or needs relating to cooccurring mental health and substance use services. (f) In consultation with mental health stakeholders, and consistent with regulations from the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, pursuant to Section 5846, the department shall revise the program elements in Section 5840 applicable to all county mental health programs in future years to reflect what is learned about the most effective prevention and intervention programs for children, adults, and seniors. SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that this act is consistent with, and furthers the intent of, the Mental Health Services Act within the meaning of Section 18 of that act. 7/7/25, 11:50 AM Bill Text - SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. Ili i LEGISLATIVF INFORN.I.,%TION Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. (2021-2022) SHARE THIS: in X Date Published: 10/11/2021 02:00 PM Senate Bill No. 224 CHAPTER 675 An act to add Article 6 (commencing with Section 51925) to Chapter 5.5 of Part 28 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code, relating to pupil instruction. Approved by Governor October 08, 2021. Filed with Secretary of State October 08, 2021. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SB 224, Portantino. Pupil instruction: mental health education. Existing law requires, during the next revision of the publication "Health Framework for California Public Schools," the Instructional Quality Commission to consider developing, and recommending for adoption by the State Board of Education, a distinct category on mental health instruction to educate pupils about all aspects of mental health. Existing law requires mental health instruction for these purposes to include, but not be limited to, specified elements, including reasonably designed and age -appropriate instruction on the overarching themes and core principles of mental health. This bill would require each school district, county office of education, state special school, and charter school that offers one or more courses in health education to pupils in middle school or high school to include in those courses instruction in mental health that meets the requirements of the bill, as specified. The bill would require that instruction to include, among other things, reasonably designed instruction on the overarching themes and core principles of mental health. The bill would require that instruction and related materials to, among other things, be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, genders, sexual orientations, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners. The bill would require the State Department of Education to develop a plan to expand mental health instruction in California public schools on or before January 1, 2024. Vote: majority Appropriation: no Fiscal Committee: yes Local Program: no THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following: (1) Mental health is critical to overall health, well-being, and academic success. (2) Mental health challenges affect all age groups, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic classes. https://Ieginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/biIINavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB224 1/3 7/7/25, 11:50 AM Bill Text - SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. (3) Millions of Californians, including at least one in five youths, live with mental health challenges. Millions more are affected by the mental health challenges of someone else, such as a close friend or family member. (4) Mental health education is one of the best ways to increase awareness and the seeking of help, while reducing the stigma associated with mental health challenges. The public education system is the most efficient and effective setting for providing this education to all youth. (b) For the foregoing reasons, it is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this measure to ensure that all California pupils in grades 1 to 12, inclusive, have the opportunity to benefit from a comprehensive mental health education. SEC. 2. Article 6 (commencing with Section 51925) is added to Chapter 5.5 of Part 28 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code, to read: Article 6. Mandatory Mental Health Education 51925. Each school district, county office of education, state special school, and charter school that offers one or more courses in health education to pupils in middle school or high school shall include in those courses instruction in mental health that meets the requirements of this article. This section shall not be construed to limit a school district, county office of education, state special school, or charter school in offering or requiring instruction in mental health as specified in this article. This instruction shall include all of the following: (a) Reasonably designed instruction on the overarching themes and core principles of mental health. (b) Defining signs and symptoms of common mental health challenges. Depending on pupil age and developmental level, this may include defining conditions such as depression, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and anxiety, including post -traumatic stress disorder. (c) Elucidating the evidence -based services and supports that effectively help individuals manage mental health challenges. (d) Promoting mental health wellness and protective factors, which includes positive development, social and cultural connectedness and supportive relationships, resiliency, problem solving skills, coping skills, self-esteem, and a positive school and home environment in which pupils feel comfortable. (e) The ability to identify warning signs of common mental health problems in order to promote awareness and early intervention so that pupils know to take action before a situation turns into a crisis. This shall include instruction on both of the following: (1) How to seek and find assistance from professionals and services within the school district that includes, but is not limited to, school counselors with a pupil personnel services credential, school psychologists, and school social workers, and in the community for themselves or others. (2) Evidence -based and culturally responsive practices that are proven to help overcome mental health challenges. (f) The connection and importance of mental health to overall health and academic success and to co-occurring conditions, such as chronic physical conditions, chemical dependence, and substance abuse. (g) Awareness and appreciation about the prevalence of mental health challenges across all populations, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses, including the impact of race, ethnicity, and culture on the experience and treatment of mental health challenges. (h) Stigma surrounding mental health challenges and what can be done to overcome stigma, increase awareness, and promote acceptance. This shall include, to the extent possible, classroom presentations of narratives by trained peers and other individuals who have experienced mental health challenges and how they coped with their situations, including how they sought help and acceptance. 51926. Instruction and materials required pursuant to this article shall satisfy all of the following: (a) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, genders, sexual orientations, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners. (b) Be accessible to pupils with disabilities, including, but not limited to, providing a modified curriculum, materials and instruction in alternative formats, and auxiliary aids. https:Hleginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/biliNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB224 2/3 7/7/25, 11:50 AM Bill Text - SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. (c) Not reflect or promote bias against any person on the basis of any category protected by Section 220. (d) Be coordinated with any existing on -campus mental health providers including, but not limited to, providers with a pupil personnel services credential, who may be immediately called upon by pupils for assistance. 51927. (a) This article does not limit a pupil's health and mental health privacy or confidentiality rights. (b) A pupil receiving instruction pursuant to this article shall not be required to disclose their confidential health or mental health information at any time in the course of receiving that instruction, including, but not limited to, for the purpose of the peer component described in subdivision (h) of Section 51925. 51928. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply: (a) "Age appropriate" has the same meaning as defined in Section 51931. (b) "English learner" has the same meaning as defined in Section 51931. (c) "Evidence -based" means verified or supported by research conducted in compliance with scientific methods and published in peer -reviewed journals, where appropriate, and recognized as accurate and objective by professional organizations and agencies with expertise in the mental health field. (d) "Instructors trained in the appropriate courses" means instructors with knowledge of the most recent evidence -based research on mental health. 51929. On or before January 1, 2024, the department shall develop a plan to expand mental health instruction in California public schools. https://leg info. legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=202120220SB224 3/3 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ This copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. Distribution and use of this material are governed by our Subscriber Agreement and by copyright law. For non -personal use or to order multiple copies, please contact Dow Jones Reprints at 1-800-843-0008 or visit www.djreprints.com. https://www.wsi.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5 Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. Educators question whether the rapid shift toward more technology has benefited learning By Sara Randazzo Follow , Matt Barnum Follow and Julie Jargon Follow Jan. 22, 2025 9 00 pm ET Class time has become screen time in American schools. Kindergartners now watch math lessons on YouTube, counting aloud with the videos. Middle- schoolers complete writing drills on Chromebooks while sneaking in play of an online game. High- schoolers mark up Google Docs to finish group projects. The rapid tech transformation amounts to a grand experiment playing out in American schools. Accelerated by pandemic -era online learning, the move has happened with little debate, conflicting research and high stakes for the nation's children. Educators wonder whether the digitization of the classroom has really benefited learning —or if it's done kids a disservice. Some teachers say online tools help create more engaging lessons and provide personalized instruction. Others say the screen -heavy approach has distracted students and burned out teachers. "Covid really shifted things toward, `Oh, we can do this,"' said Stephanie Galvani, a middle -school English teacher in suburban Boston. "But we didn't ask: `Should we do this?"' https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 1 /10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students used their school -issued laptops in San Antonio. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The shift runs counter to the prevailing advice from doctors and psychologists to limit tech use. Some frustrated parents are trying to opt their kids out of school technology, with varying degrees of success. Even some students pine for more analog methods. "I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while," said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz, in San Antonio. "It gives you a headache and I really lose my focus." Students in grades one through 12 now spend an average of 98 minutes on school -issued devices during the school day —more than 20% of the average instructional time —according to data that educational software company Lightspeed Systems analyzed at the request of The Wall Street Journal. The time spent on devices peaks at two hours and 24 minutes daily in sixth grade, or nearly 35% of instructional time, Lightspeed's analysis of more than 2.8 million students in 344 school districts nationwide shows. Use of school devices declined among high-school students, down to 70 minutes a day for 12th-graders, with possible factors including a shift to personal devices and more flexible school schedules, according to Lightspeed. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 2/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Average amount of time per day students spend on school -provided devices During school Outside of school GRADE 1 hour Ira 3 0 6 27 7� 2. 8 &j&, 23 Note: Data from January -June 2024; includes 344 districts and 2.8 million students. Source: Lightspeed Systems Fifty percent of teachers said their students completed at least half of their classwork on a device, up from about 20% of teachers before the pandemic, according to a 2023 survey of nearly 1,000 educators conducted by Brian Jacob, an education researcher at the University of Michigan. Use of technology for homework, group work and assessments also dramatically increased. Research on the effectiveness of tech use in education is mixed and full of company -backed analyses. "I don't think there's one easy answer," Jacob said. "I just don't think we know yet." `Paper is better' On an August day in Abby Ramos Stanutz's San Antonio classroom, 25 eighth -graders filed into first -period English and began class as they often do, with several minutes of free writing. The students each grabbed a school -issued Chromebook and began to type. "I know your fingers are getting tired, but keep going," Ramos Stanutz urged, dimming the lights and playing pop music softly to help students focus. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 3/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students in San Antonio used laptops for a free -writing exercise. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Later in the class, the students turned back to Chromebooks to record influencer -style videos explaining why they liked a book they were reading. Some of Ramos Stanutz's students later explained that while they like the ease of turning in assignments online and using computers for technical skills like coding, the devices create distractions in class and can slow down lessons when the internet goes out or a video a teacher wants to play gets blocked by district software. "I feel like paper is better, anything other than technology," said 14-year-old Carlos Miranda. "I'm hands-on. You can't learn to dissect a frog with a computer." (Education technology companies have, actually, created virtual dissection apps.) Ramos Stanutz said there's no getting rid of technology at this point but she's learned to strike the right balance. She's had to find new strategies to keep students from playing online games or watching videos. "It's like the ocean: You can never turn your back on it," she said. Computer and internet use in schools grew rapidly in the 1990s, alongside technology's rise in everyday life. Schools saw an opportunity to close a digital divide between low-income and wealthier students. The adoption of school technology sped up when the pandemic forced students to learn online. Federal Covid aid helped schools buy students across the country their own laptops or tablets. A multibillion -dollar education -technology industry promised its products could revolutionize teaching and catch students up after the pandemic. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 4/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Abby Ramos Stanutz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Highline Public Schools in Washington state found itself unintentionally thrust into a pre-internet era this school year when a cyberattack shut down its system for more than a month. Sixth -grade math teacher Rachel Nielsen said she initially panicked at not being able to access the digital curriculum —the only way she'd taught since becoming a teacher in 2019. She soon came to embrace methods like using physical tiles and cubes to teach geometry. Students worked together on presentations using large poster boards. Nielsen found students explained their work better when they had to physically write rather than simply plugging answers into online programs. "We got really bogged down by all the possible things we could use that are digital," Nielsen said. "Now I'm realizing it isn't about more technology or another app." 'I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while,' said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ `Too good to be true' Research on the use of technology in education remains unsettled. For instance, a review of 24 studies published last year found that college students retain more information when they take notes by hand rather than on a computer. Some research has found students have better comprehension when reading on paper rather than on a screen. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 5/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Other research on specific technology products —including digital tutoring programs —has shown improvements in student learning. Richard Culatta, the head of an association that supports teachers' use of technology, said lessons using technology have to elevate what the teacher could otherwise do to be effective. "Does it spark curiosity? Or is it just presenting information?" Culatta said. "That distinction right there makes it clear pretty quickly whether the tech use is valuable." Some teachers say they find technology essential for assisting students with specific needs, like using instant -translation apps for recently arrived immigrants or software to make fonts more readable for students with dyslexia. Technology companies often tout internal analyses claiming their products have led to breakthrough gains in student learning. But such results are often overstated, and companies may choose not to release unfavorable findings. "It's really hard to move the needle on student achievement, so if you see something that's too good to be true, it probably is," said Betsy Wolf, a researcher who found in a 2020 paper that company - backed studies produced more positive findings than independent evaluations. IXL Learning, the company behind popular digital education platform IXL, touts that schools using the product score as much as 15 to 17 percentile points higher on state exams. Students in Ramos Stanutz's English class. PHOTO: KAY LEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The most rigorous published evaluation of the product —which is used by 15 million U.S. students was less impressive. A Johns Hopkins University research center report, commissioned by the company, found that IXL had no clear effect on state math scores during the spring of 2023 in a https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 6/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Michigan school district. On a different test, IXL boosted math scores by about five percentile points, the researchers found. In a separate, unpublished Johns Hopkins study —a summary of which was reviewed by the Journal —the effects of IXL were described as "directionally positive" but "not statistically significant." The company chose not to release the study, a spokesman said, because it had a relatively small sample size. Bo Bashkov, senior manager of research at IXL Learning, said the company's figures of 15 to 17 percentile points are "better -case scenario" benchmarks from its own state -by -state research. Removing barriers In lower -income districts, school leaders say giving students and their families access to personal devices has been a huge benefit. Computer access is now nearly universal in U.S. public schools, with 95% of schools reporting that they provided devices to students last school year, according to a federal survey. "It has removed barriers," said Pamela Maddox, the principal of Compton Early College High School, a high -performing school in a district serving majority Latino and Black students. Parents tell her they like that students can easily access their homework from anywhere. The school has doubled down on technology, moving its library into a smaller room to make way for a high-tech lab funded by Verizon, equipped with a podcasting room, robotics equipment, 3-D printer and esports stations. On a walk through campus in September, Maddox entered an Advanced Placement English class taught by Porsja Dyer. There, students sitting with Chromebooks typed out reflections on factors that have shaped their identity. Their responses were instantly shared with the entire class. "And yes, I turned the hearts on so you can like each other's work today," Dyer said. At one table, students looked up from their screens to say they liked using technology in class because they can find information and write responses more quickly and it makes life easier. Reducing technology Many parents are content with the growth of educational technology. In one survey from 2023, commissioned by the nonprofit EdChoice, about three in four parents said that computer use was having a positive effect on their child's learning. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 7/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Still, about 40% of parents said their children spent too much time on screens. In a separate EdChoice poll, 35% of teenagers said their school used too much technology. I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education; said Andrea Davis, a mother of five. PHOTO: KRISTINA BARKER FOR WSJ "For parents who want to reduce screen time, schools are undercutting them," said Jonathan Haid a social psychologist at New York University's Stern School of Business whose recent book, "The Anxious Generation," helped fuel smartphone bans in schools across the country. Mileva Repasky, a mother of three in Phoenixville, Pa., who co-founded the nonprofit Phone -Free Schools Movement, had her children track their school and home screen use for two weeks at the Journal's request. One Wednesday in October, her 17-year-old son, David, spent nearly 2 /z hours on his school -issued Chromebook doing work at school and an additional 70 minutes doing homework on his Chromebook. That was on top of the 42 minutes at lunch watching TikTok and Netflix on his phone that day and 80 minutes at home gaming or looking at Instagram. Total screen time: more than 5 /2 hours. He said he learns better when taking notes on paper and that he'd like it if classmates would talk to each other more during lunch. His mom said she had no idea David was spending so much time on his laptop for school. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 8/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Amount of time at school Mileva Repasky's children spent on school -provided devices Madelyn • 11 YEARS OLD • 5TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 5 min. SCHOOL DAY TUESDAY 1 hour 5 min. i9�ft�st�ts ,�� 00, Katie • 13 YEARS OLD • 7TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 30 min. TUESDAY 1 hour David • 17 YEARS OLD • 11TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 27 min. ut�11i'� TUESDAY Note: Data for Oct. 28-Nov.1, 2024 Source: Mileva Repasky 1 hour I' WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 40 min. 1 hour 5 min. 55 min. WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 1 hour 18 min. 1 hour 15 min. 1 hour 31 min. �Ql�9ii 1��1ti�ulr , h�1Pum� 9iJ1 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 2 hours 22 min. 2 hours 2 hours 30 min. SS IIl)l� l 444i}� Ity� ;(4sss� "The entire day is filled with technology," said David, a junior at a private high school. "We use our computers from first period to eighth period, and even at lunch there's no socializing because everyone is on their phones playing games." Repasky's nonprofit and other advocacy groups have helped usher in a wave of cellphone bans at the school -district and state level in recent years, though enforcement is often a challenge and phones are still pervasive on many campuses. Mom of five Andrea Davis wasn't happy with the prevalence of technology in her local public school district in Hood River, Ore. "I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education," she said. Davis, who runs a business that helps families reduce screen time, worked with the district to organize student and community meetings and presented a formal plan on how to reduce https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 9/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ technology use. This school year, the middle-schoolers aren't bringing school -issued iPads home with them, and the district is making sure every tech application is educationally sound. School leaders didn't take up other recommendations, like banning YouTube and eliminating iPads in early -grade classrooms. "There's this misconception that we've let the cat out of the bag," Davis said. "But no, this is an opportunity we have now." Write to Sara Randazzo at sara.randazzo@wsj.com, Matt Barnum at matt.barnum@wsj.com and Julie Jargon at Julie.Jargon@wsj.com Appeared in the January 24, 2025, print edition as 'Screens Are Taking Over In American Classrooms https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 10/10 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. Ili LEGISLATIVE INFORMATION Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. (2019-2020) SHARE THIS: Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 73 CHAPTER 158 Relative to Blue Light Awareness Day. [ Filed with Secretary of State September 19, 2019. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SCR 73, Pan. Blue Light Awareness Day. This measure would designate October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California. Fiscal Committee: no WHEREAS, There are over 80 million electronic devices with digital screens in the State of California; and WHEREAS, Screen time viewing with electronic devices exceeds over nine hours per day; and WHEREAS, The increased usage of, and access to, digital devices by young children and adolescents is an acute area of concern, as ophthalmologists, optometrists, and medical researchers continue to learn more about the short-term effects of increasing and cumulative exposure to artificial blue light on the developing human eye and mental health at a young age, along with long-term potential cumulative effects on adult eye health and mental development; and WHEREAS, The scientific community and recent studies have identified growing concerns over potential long- term eye and health impacts for all age groups from digital screen usage and cumulative blue light exposure emitted from digital devices; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been reported to cause visual discomfort in 65 percent of Americans; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been associated with possible harmful effects on retinal cell physiology linked to the high-energy, short wavelength in the narrow range of 415-455 nanometers; and WHEREAS, Cumulative blue light exposure from digital devices has been shown to disrupt sleep cycles by suppressing the natural release of melatonin and has also been linked to premature aging of the retina, which could accelerate potential long-term vision problems such as age -related macular degeneration, decreased alertness, and memory and emotional regulation impacts; and WHEREAS, Screen time can take a toll on vision health and comfort, leading to symptoms of digital eye strain and dry, irritated eyes; and https:Hlegi nfo.legislatu re.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 1 /2 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. WHEREAS, Given the growing body of research around the breadth and scope of potential eye and systemic health impacts related to blue light exposure, the State of California encourages citizens, particularly children, to consider taking protective safety measures in reducing eye exposure to high-energy visible blue light; now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California; and be it further Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution. https:Hleginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 2/2 Did you know struggling students are more likely to confide in a peer than an adult? With Hope Squad, 95% of student members reported knowing how and where to get help. Why Choose Hope Squad? Hope Squad's peer -to -peer suicide prevention programming enables all students to thrive. Student -Centered Programming 100% of parents agreed Hope Squad helps their child make a positive difference. Transformational Impact 98% of school administrators agreed Hope Squad promotes a positive school climate. Collaborative Partnership 95% of school leaders agreed Hope Squad provides the support needed to be effective. "I have never seen a program change the culture of our schools the way Hope Squad has. The power of peer -to -peer and education about mental illness has opened doors and saved lives." Dr. Holly Ferguson, Superintendent of Prosper Independent School District, Prosper, TX PROGRAM INNOVATION Grant Resource This document is designed to help anyone understand, write, and submit grant applications. Whether you're seeking funding for one Squad or a whole district, this guide provides step-by- step instructions, best practices, and examples to support your application process. By following the guidance in this document, you will be well-equipped to create compelling grant proposals that stand out and secure the funding you need. A quick note about metrics and deliverables: It is important to outline clear and measurable metrics that will demonstrate the success and impact of your Hope Squad. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and deliverables will not only guide your project's implementation but also provide tangible evidence to funders that their investment is yielding positive results. As a reminder, Hope Squad is able to provide some specific data in relation to your school or district, if your Advisors have the students, parents, and admins fill it out. All data will be de - identified before it is sent, ensuring confidentiality and privacy. However, Hope Squad does not claim responsibility for the completion of any grant objectives as you lay them out in your grant document. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. Revised Jan 2025 LearningAbout Grants..................................................................................................................3 Common Inclusions in Grant Applications.................................................................................3 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications......................................................4 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad.........................................5 SampleGrant Timeline.............................................................................................................6 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad.......................................................................7 CoverLetter.............................................................................................................................7 ExecutiveSummary..................................................................................................................7 Statementof Need...................................................................................................................8 ProjectDescription...................................................................................................................9 Summary of Hope Squad Program Components....................................................................9 ProjectGoals.........................................................................................................................11 Objectives..........................................................................................................................11 PhasedImplementation Plan..................................................................................................12 ExpectedOutcomes...............................................................................................................13 Evaluation and Metrics for Success.....................................................................................14 Target Population and Demographics......................................................................................17 SustainabilityPlan..................................................................................................................18 Organizational Background and Capacity................................................................................18 Budget and Justification..........................................................................................................19 GrantAppendices...............................................................................................................20 Additional Supportive Information: ............................................................................................. 22 Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: ................................................................ 22 CoverLetter...........................................................................................................................25 Letterof Support Template......................................................................................................26 2 Revised Jan 2025 Learning About Grants Common Inclusions in Grant Applications 1. Cover Letter: A brief, formal letter introducing the applicant, summarizing the project, and explaining why the funding request aligns with the grantor's mission. 2. Executive Summary: A concise summary of the project, outlining its objectives, expected outcomes, target audience, and the funding request amount. 3. Statement of Need: A section describing the problem or need the project addresses, supported by data, research, and specific evidence of why the issue is important. 4. Project Description: Details about the project, often including: • Goals and Objectives: Clear goals and measurable objectives. • Activities and Timeline: Specific actions planned, and a timeline for implementation. • Methodology: The approach or strategies used to achieve the objectives. 5. Target Population and Demographics: Information about the people or community served, including demographics, location, and unique needs. 6. Evaluation Plan: A plan to assess the project's impact and effectiveness, often outlining metrics, data collection methods, and reporting practices. 7. Sustainability Plan: A description of how the project will continue after the grant period ends, either through other funding sources or ongoing community support. 8. Budget and Justification: A detailed budget with explanations for each expense, demonstrating responsible use of funds and alignment with project goals. 9. Organizational Background and Capacity: Information about the applicant organization's history, mission, past accomplishments, and its capacity to implement the proposed project. 10. Appendices: Additional materials, such as letters of support, resumes of key personnel, charts, data, or other relevant documents to reinforce the proposal. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 3 Revised Jan 2025 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications ASPECT Application Process Review Process Funding Requirements and Priorities Compliance and Reporting Budget and Allowable Expenses Match Requirements Timing and Availability FEDERAL/GOV'T GRANTS PRIVATE FOUNDATION GRANTS Highly structured with standardized forms and strict guidelines, usually submitted through government portals like grants.gov. Reviews are rigorous and standardized, with multiple reviewers and specific scoring metrics. The process can be lengthy, with results taking months to release. Often prioritize programs with broad public impact, aligning with policy goals. Require evidence -based programs with specific success metrics. Compliance requirements include detailed financial documentation, regular progress reports, and adherence to federal regulations. Failure to comply can result in loss of funding. Follow strict federal guidelines, exclude indirect costs and prohibited items like lobbying. Be cautious with reimbursement grants, as they often require you to spend money prior to receiving money and may not be suitable for your needs. Often require matching funds from the applicant, either cash or in -kind, to show investment. Issued annually with predictable schedules and published notices, helping organizations plan their applications. More flexible with unique guidelines, submitted via email, online forms, or foundation - specific portals, often starting with Letters of Inquiry (LOls). Reviews vary from informal to structured, often involving board members or advisors. Timelines are typically shorter than for government grants. Focus on the founders' or board's interests, often funding innovative or niche projects not fitting federal criteria. Reporting often focuses on project outcomes with more flexibility and less intensive financial scrutiny. Typically offer more flexibility in allowable expenses, including areas like capacity building or indirect costs. Rarely require matching funds but may prefer evidence of other funding for project sustainability. Lack regular deadlines, often operating on a rolling basis or offering funds periodically. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 4 Revised Jan 2025 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad To maximize success, schools or districts should approach grant applications strategically. Here's a step-by-step guide to choosing the right grant and applying successfully: 1. Identifying Needs and Objectives • Assess Program Needs: Determine the specific needs that a grant would address (e.g., mental health programming, curriculum updates, technology upgrades). • Define Objectives: Outline clear, measurable objectives to address those needs. 2. Research Potential Grants • Compare Federal vs. Private Grants: Choose which type suits your project best. • Matching Criteria: Ensure the grant's goals align with your objectives. • Funding and Restrictions: Consider the needed funding and allowed expenses. 3. Assess Readiness and Resources • Capacity to Manage the Grant: Determine if the school has the personnel and systems to manage the grant effectively. • Gather Supporting Data: Collect relevant data to support the application. • Confirm Stakeholder Support: Get buy -in from key stakeholders. 4. Draft a Timeline and Team for the Grant Application Process • Identify Key Personnel: Assign a grant team with relevant expertise. • Set a Timeline: Create a realistic timeline for preparing, writing, and submitting the application. • Budget Planning: Start drafting a budget that matches grant requirements. 5. Writing the Grant Application • Review the grant's guidelines in detail and complete each section thoroughly. • Clearly explain why the program is necessary, detail goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. • Provide a clear, itemized budget with justifications and describe how you'll assess the program success. • Ensure the application is clear, well -organized, and free of errors. 6. Submit the Application and Follow Up • Double -Check Requirements: Confirm that all required documents are included. • Submit Early and Follow Up: Confirm receipt and inquire about the decision timeline. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 5 Revised Jan 2025 Sample Grant Timeline This timeline assumes a 12-week period leading up to the grant submission deadline, though you can adjust it based on specific grant requirements and internal timelines. Week 1-2: Identify project needs: collaborate with stakeholders, set goals. Research preparation grants, check eligibility. Hold stakeholder meeting: confirm alignment, assign and roles. Set timeline: form team, assign roles, and set deadlines. planning Week 3-4: Gather Supporting Data: Collect statistics, research findings, program Data successes, community needs, and student demographics Collection Draft Program Description: Begin drafting the project narrative by focusing on and the goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. Identify and outline potential Drafting measurable outcomes. Budget Planning: Collaborate with the finance team to create an initial budget that outlines all projected costs, including training, materials, staffing, and evaluation expenses. Week 5-6: Statement of Need: Use collected data to explain why the project is vital for Writing the your school or district. Application Refine Project Description and Objectives: Detail each objective and activity, aligning them with the grant's goals. Specify timelines, roles, and required resources. Budget Justification: Finalize the budget and justify each expense, ensuring they align with grant guidelines. Evaluation Plan: Outline how to assess the project's success, including metrics, data collection methods, and reporting requirements. Week 7-8: Internal Review: Share the application draft with team members and Review and stakeholders for review and feedback. Ensure alignment with the school. Focus Revise on clarity, conciseness, and alignment with the grantor's objectives. Proofread: Check grammar, formatting, and consistency. Ensure compliance with the application's guidelines. Week 9-10: Prepare Required Attachments: Compile required supporting documents, Finalization such as letters of support, resumes, organizational charts, and tax status and documentation. Approval Administrative Approval: Present the final draft to school administrators or district leadership for approval. Gather necessary signatures from authorized personnel (e.g., superintendent, principal, finance officer). Week 11: Double -Check Requirements: Review the application checklist to ensure all Submission components are included and complete. Preparation Submission Platform Review: Confirm familiarity with the grant's submission process (e.g., online portal, email, or mail). Prepare digital copies in the required formats. Submit Application Early: Aim to submit the application a few days before the deadline to allow for technical issues or last-minute changes. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 0 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad Cover Letter Purpose: Introduce the school or district, outline the need for suicide prevention, and explain why Hope Squad is the ideal solution. • Sample Content: At [school or district name], we aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for all our students. Currently, we are identifying several mental health and school safety issues that need to be addressed. These include [increased levels of stress and anxiety among students, as well as concerns about bullying and emergency preparedness.] To tackle these issues, we have [implemented several measures. Our initiatives include enhancing our school's counseling services, organizing workshops on mental health awareness, and establishing clear protocols for handling emergencies and bullying incidents.] We are committed to continuously improving our approach to ensure the well-being and safety of our school community. • On behalf of [School or District Name], we are seeking funding to implement Hope Squad, an evidence -based, peer -led suicide prevention program. This program helps students identify and support peers in crisis, fostering a safe, stigma -free school environment. It encourages students to recognize warning signs and provides them with resources for support. Feedback from administrators shows that Hope Squad contributes to a positive school culture, and we would like to join the thousands of schools and 43 states that currently have this program in place. • Hope Squad equips students with essential skills to manage daily stress, promotes emotional literacy, leadership, safety, and actively discourages drug use. Additionally, it addresses the dangers of social media, educating students on recognizing risks like cyberbullying and the impact on mental health. Executive Summary Overview: Summarize the project's main goals, the intended impact, and the funding amount requested. • Sample Content: "[School or District Name] requests [amount] to launch Hope Squad in [number of schools]. This initiative will support student -led mental health advocacy, reduce suicide stigma, and foster a supportive school climate. Funds will enable advisor training, student resources, and engagement activities, impacting [estimated number] students and their families." HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 7 Revised Jan 2025 • Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [specify grade levels, e.g., 6-12], offering a structured curriculum and ongoing peer support. This funding will allow us to train advisors, engage students, and run awareness events, including the school -wide Hope Week. Through Hope Squad, our goal is to create a culture of connection, resilience, and hope within our school. Statement of Need Problem Description: Highlight the need for youth mental health support and suicide prevention in your school or district, referencing local or national statistics if possible. • Sample Content: Youth suicide rates are rising nationwide, with many students facing mental health challenges without adequate support. In our community, [insert relevant local statistics or insights, e.g., recent mental health statistics for the area or challenges specific to the student population]. Schools play a crucial role in addressing these needs by creating environments where students feel safe and supported. • Despite these needs, our school currently lacks a structured, peer -led mental health program that directly addresses suicide prevention. Research and feedback from schools with Hope Squad programs indicate its effectiveness in reducing stigma, increasing student connectedness, and providing students with the resources they need to help each other. Implementing Hope Squad in [School or District Name] will address this critical gap and create a foundation for sustainable mental health support. • Supporting Points: o Youth mental health needs are rising nationwide, with suicide prevention a top priority in school settings. o Many school staff and administrators report needing more resources, training, and consistent opportunities for student engagement to fully realize Hope Squad's potential. o Include any crisis referral data or mental health screener data you may already have for your school, district or county. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 8 Revised Jan 2025 Project Description This project aims to implement the Hope Squad program at [School Name] to create a peer -led suicide prevention initiative. The program empowers students to identify signs of distress in their peers and connect them with trusted adults. By training students —Hope Squad Members —and certified advisors, it fosters a supportive environment for mental wellness. Squad Members act as additional eyes and ears, observing signs of distress and reporting them, rather than serving as counselors. Hope Squad offers a comprehensive gatekeeper model reinforced through various lessons. It includes experiential learning, confidence building, mental health literacy, and self -care knowledge for students. Squad Members are selected by their classmates as peers they trust and would approach to talk to. These selected members are then screened by adults, approved for participation by their parents, and introduced to Hope Squad through a series of meetings and events. Trained Advisors (school personnel managing the Squad) have streamlined access to program resources through a virtual portal, complete with direct links to lesson materials, monthly activity toolkits, and a Hope Week Toolkit. Advisors can quickly access content, reducing preparation time and helping them focus on meaningful interactions with students. The lessons imparted during Hope Squad meetings are actively implemented within the broader school community through the efforts of individual members, monthly themes, and school -wide events and activities. The initiatives of Hope Squad are integrated into the daily school environment in a manner that avoids adding extra burden or distracting from educational objectives. This approach ensures that support is nurtured not only within the school but also extends into students' homes and the wider community. Summary of Hope Squad Program Components A more detailed description of the following information is available in the "Additional Supportive Information" section of this document, however the highlights listed here may be beneficial to additional questions in the Project section of a grant application. • HOPE Approach: A foundational lesson that teaches suicide prevention, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. • Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: The elementary curriculum introduces key skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness, laying the groundwork for students' mental wellness and future learning. Many lessons use books to promote reading literacy and social -emotional development while HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life 9 Revised Jan 2025 emphasizing the importance of identifying and informing trusted adults about peers in need. o Secondary: Junior high/high school students annually learn to identify warning signs and follow referral protocols. The program covers relationships, self -care, leadership, empathy, resilience, and coping skills, with flexible lesson formats. It emphasizes experiential learning and includes activities for the school community and families. Lesson Strands (Structured topics spanning age levels with years of material) • Core Hope Squad Content • Suicide Prevention • Building Relationships (Elementary)/Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary) • Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/Cultivating Empathy (Secondary) • Constructive Choices • Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/Developing Resilience (Secondary) Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. • Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. Parent and Community Involvement • Ongoing Parent Education: Regular information for parents to educate them on mental health topics and how to support their children. • Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local mental health organizations, community leaders, and businesses to provide additional resources and support for students and families. • Regular Feedback and Improvement: Collecting feedback from students, parents, and educators to continually improve the program and ensure it meets the community's needs. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 10 Revised Jan 2025 Project Goals Goals are broad, overarching outcomes that the program aims to achieve over time. They define the ultimate impact of implementing the Hope Squad program. Enhance Suicide Prevention Literacy and Stigma Reduction: Foster a culture of mental health awareness where students feel empowered to openly discuss mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. 2. Strengthen School Safety and Support Networks: Create a supportive environment where students, through their training as Hope Squad members, act as the "eyes and ears" of the school, recognizing peers in crisis and connecting them with trusted adults. 3. Promote School -Wide Engagement and Community Building: Encourage positive relationships and a sense of belonging through school -wide events such as Hope Week and monthly awareness campaigns. Objectives Objectives are specific, measurable actions that support the achievement of the program's goals. They outline what will be accomplished within the grant period. 1. Train Advisors and Students in Suicide Prevention: Conduct [X number] of HOPE Approach training sessions for advisors and student members, equipping them with gatekeeping skills to identify and refer peers in distress. 2. Increase Peer -Led Engagement in Suicide Prevention Efforts: Implement [X number] of peer -led mental health awareness activities and workshops, increasing participation and reinforcing suicide prevention literacy among the student body. 3. Facilitate Regular Mental Health Awareness Events: Organize and execute monthly themes and events, including Hope Week, to promote consistent engagement and education around mental wellness. 4. Enhance Crisis Identification and Referral: Establish a clear protocol for Hope Squad members to report concerns to trained advisors, aiming for [specific metric, e.g.,100% of reported cases receiving appropriate follow-up]. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 11 Revised Jan 2025 Phased Implementation Plan Phase 1: Program Setup and Advisor Training (Months 1-2) • Advisor Selection: Select school staff to serve as Hope Squad advisors, ensuring they have a strong interest in student mental health and well-being. Advisors will be responsible for guiding students, facilitating discussions, and organizing events. • Advisor Training: Advisors will undergo an estimated 6 hours of comprehensive training in the HOPE Approach, program implementation guidance, skills -based practice on how to lead discussions on mental health, manage student questions, and support squad members. Advisors also learn how to utilize Hope Squad's online portal for resources and program guidance through a series of microlessons available on demand. • Baseline Data Collection: Collect initial data to assess the current mental health climate, student connectedness, and awareness levels related to mental health and suicide. This may include surveys, attendance records, and input from counselors and administration. Phase 2: Student Selection and Training (Months 2-3) • Student Nominations and Selection: Identify and nominate students based on their trustworthiness, empathy, and leadership qualities. Teachers, counselors, and peers may contribute nominations to ensure diverse representation within the Hope Squad. • HOPE Approach Training for Students: Once selected, Hope Squad members will participate in training sessions to learn the HOPE Approach. Training topics will include recognizing mental health warning signs, handling sensitive conversations, and understanding when to refer peers to adults. • Program Introduction to School Community: Host an informational event to introduce Hope Squad to the broader school community, explaining the program's purpose, how students can engage with squad members, and the availability of support resources. Phase 3: Program Activation and Initial Engagement (Months 3-6) • Monthly Hope Squad Meetings: Begin regular meetings with Hope Squad members to discuss mental health topics, practice skills learned during training, and plan school -wide activities. Meetings will also provide a safe space for members to share their experiences and receive support. • Hope Week Planning and Execution: Organize Hope Week as a major event to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention across the school. Activities may include guest speakers, workshops, and peer -led activities that promote inclusion and empathy. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 12 Revised Jan 2025 • Monthly Awareness Themes: Implement monthly themes focused on mental health awareness, resilience, and support strategies. Themes may include "Kindness and Inclusion," "Self -Care and Wellness," and "Building Connections," with activities aligned to each theme. Phase 4: Evaluation and Continuous Improvement (Ongoing, with Quarterly Checkpoints) • Ongoing Feedback Collection: Gather ongoing feedback from Hope Squad members, advisors, and the school community. Feedback will inform adjustments to the program and help address any emerging needs or challenges. • Data Tracking and Progress Reporting: Track key metrics such as referrals made, advisor and student satisfaction, participation in Hope Week, and attendance at monthly meetings. Quarterly reports will be prepared for internal review and grant reporting. End -of -Year Assessment and Review: Conduct a comprehensive assessment at the end of the school year, reviewing data to evaluate the program's effectiveness in improving mental health awareness, student connectedness, and help -seeking behaviors. Use this data to make program improvements for the following year. Expected Outcomes Upon successful implementation, [School Name] will develop a proactive and sustainable peer - to -peer suicide prevention program that emphasizes collaboration among student leaders and is underpinned by strong school faculty and staff support. Hope Squad aims to cultivate an inclusive and empathetic environment that empowers students to address mental health challenges effectively while providing resilient support to their peers and the broader school community. The program incorporates structured components to achieve these goals, including training sessions and interactive activities tailored to enhance students' and staff's efforts in suicide prevention. These adaptable lesson formats will allow for continuous mental health education and gatekeeper skill development, particularly equipping students with the tools to identify and address mental health concerns within themselves and among their classmates. Moreover, the Hope Squad program will actively engage the selected Squad members and the entire school population, promoting a culture of openness and understanding surrounding mental health. By fostering strong connections and proactive support systems, this initiative will encourage students to seek help and support each other in overcoming personal challenges. Ultimately, [School Name] aspires to create a healthier school environment where every student feels valued, understood, and equipped to contribute positively to their mental well-being and that of others, and believes Hope Squad will help [School Name] achieve this aim. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 13 Revised Jan 2025 Evaluation and Metrics for Success Approach: Measure success through both quantitative (e.g., referral rates, engagement levels) and qualitative (e.g., advisor and member feedback) metrics at multiple time points. Note for Your Grant Writing Team: While Hope Squad supports school data collection by providing access to de -identified results from students, advisors, and parents, Hope Squad is not responsible for achieving your grant outcomes as specified in your grant application. The pre - and post -survey data collection is solely dependent on whether Advisors administer the surveys or [school/district] opts -out of collection. Data is only shared with those having a school domain address and doesn't capture identifying information. If you have questions, or need assistance, email our research team at research@hopesquad.com Sample: "We will evaluate the program's impact through both quantitative and qualitative measures collected at multiple time points. Pre-, mid-, and post -program surveys will assess changes in mental health literacy, stigma reduction, and help -seeking behaviors among students. Additionally, we will collect data on referral rates, engagement levels in peer -led activities, and participation in events like Hope Week. Qualitative feedback from advisors, Hope Squad members, and other stakeholders will be gathered regularly through interviews, focus groups, and written reflections. This will help us understand program challenges, successes, and opportunities for improvement. By evaluating progress throughout the program and not just at the end, we aim to ensure continuous growth, timely adjustments, and sustained impact." Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Increased Mental Health Awareness: Measure changes in student understanding of mental health concepts (e.g., suicide prevention skills and gatekeeper knowledge), as reflected in pre- and post -program surveys. Student Help -Seeking Behavior: Track the number of students referred to counselors by Hope Squad members and the frequency of peer -to -peer support interactions. Program Engagement and Visibility: Monitor participation in Hope Week and monthly awareness events, as well as feedback from school -wide surveys on program visibility and impact. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 14 Revised Jan 2025 Data Collection Methods: Member Pre- and Post -Surveys: Administer surveys at the beginning and end of the school year to measure changes in the following outcomes. Suggested Target: 75% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Elementary Measured Outcomes: - Bullying Resistance - Enjoyment - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy - Self -care Awareness - Stress Secondary Measured Outcomes: - Compassion Fatigue - Compassion Satisfaction - Gatekeeper Knowledge - Suicide Prevention Knowledge & Skills - Peer Support Engagement - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy Stakeholder Pre- and Post -Surveys: Hope Squad school administrators, advisors, and parents are encouraged to complete provided surveys at the beginning and end of each academic year. Results from these surveys can speak to whether and how stakeholders believe Hope Squad has impacted the school environment and overall satisfaction with the program. Suggested Target: 50% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Mental Health Referral Forms (MHRF): These forms are designed to capture instances of mental concerns among any student within a school - not just Hope Squad members. The data collected is indicative of how members' learnings (e.g., addressing mental health stigma, willingness to engage in help -seeking behaviors, etc.) and schoolwide activities permeate throughout the student body. Moreover, the MHRF can capture how a student was referred to a trusted adult, the nature of the student's mental health concern, relevant adverse events, and what resources were provided to the student. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 15 Revised Jan 2025 Suggested Target: Report the total number of MHRF collected as well as the number or ratio) of referrals provided by Hope Squad members versus students in the general population. Additional metrics of potential interest are student demographics, the nature of each concern (e.g., suicidal ideation with intent to harm oneself versus suicidal ideation without intent to harm oneself), and the frequency of each type of follow-up resource provided to students in need. Additional Metrics for Schools to Consider Collecting Independently: Advisor and Member Reports: Collect feedback from advisors and Hope Squad members after each major event to assess engagement, program challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Collect the number of members trained. Quarterly Reports: Generate quarterly reports to continuously assess the program's impact on student connectedness, awareness, and safety. Stigma Reduction: If wanting to report specifically on stigma reduction, we recommend using a validated survey instrument, such as the Stigma of Suicide Scale (SOSS-SF). Hope Squad's previous research (2022) has used this scale. School Wide Changes: Schoolwide Student Survey Pre -Hope Squad formation and Post implementation would greatly enhance the evidence of impact. If you do choose this measure, Hope Squad would love to know about your findings! HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 16 Revised Jan 2025 Target Population and Demographics • Description: Describe the student population the program will serve, including demographic details and any specific community needs. • Demographics: Hope Squad programming is designed to serve students in grades 4 through 12, with the opportunity to impact students from kindergarten through their senior year of high school. The program specifically targets students who might otherwise lack access to mental health resources, equipping them with tools to support one another. Hope Squad prioritizes literacy, accessibility, and cultural relevance. Research suggests that larger teams of peer supporters AND those that are representative of the student body can result in a better diffusion of suicide prevention program's messaging in schools (Pickering et al., 2018; 2022). • Sample: Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [6-12, etc.] across [specify school or district area, e.g., rural/suburban/urban settings]. Many students face barriers to mental health care, and peer -led support can be a powerful first step in addressing these challenges. The program will prioritize inclusivity and support students from diverse backgrounds, including those in underserved communities who may lack access to mental health resources. Member Demographics collected via Hope Squad: • Age (Birth Month/Year) • Grade Level • Gender Identity • Racial/Ethnic Identity • State • School Name HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 17 Revised Jan 2025 Sustainability Plan • Strategy: Funding will address critical needs for training and program materials, empowering advisors to maintain the program effectively. By establishing a sustainable model that includes a student council, trained advisors, and maintaining continuity with members who serve on the squad year after year, the team operates efficiently. • Long -Term Plan: Secure sustainable funding through school budgets and community partnerships, with continued collaboration with mental health organizations • Sample: This funding will provide the resources needed to establish Hope Squad and support its initial implementation. Our goal is to sustain the program through continued collaboration with school counselors, community mental health organizations, district -level funding, partnerships with mental health or healthcare organizations or national funding through Title IV or Title I. We will integrate Hope Squad activities into our school's yearly calendar to ensure its longevity. At an estimated expense of $6.00 per student*, this program remains affordable year over year. By building relationships and a culture of support, we anticipate that the program will grow and remain a vital part of our school's mental health resources. Organizational Background and Capacity • School or District Background: Describe the school's commitment to student well- being and previous mental health initiatives. • Capacity to Implement Program: Highlight existing mental health resources (e.g., counselors, school psychologists) that will support Hope Squad. Sample: [School or District Name] has a long-standing commitment to student well-being, previously implementing [mention any relevant programs or initiatives, e.g., anti -bullying campaigns, mental health awareness events]. Our counseling and administrative teams have the experience needed to support Hope Squad's implementation, and we have strong relationships with local mental health organizations that will reinforce the program's goals. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 18 Revised Jan 2025 Budget and Justification • Itemized Budget: o Training and Resources: Fund Certified Advisor training for a minimum of 2 advisors per school, 2 seats to Advisor Gatekeeper training (QPR, LivingWorks Start) as well as any resources or stipends needed. o Community Engagement and Awareness: Provide for Hope Week and monthly mental health awareness activities to promote school -wide support and reduce stigma. o Implementation Support: Allocate funds for materials, scheduling support, and resources that facilitate regular, impactful Hope Squad meetings. • Justification: Each item in the budget directly addresses areas identified by advisors and administrators, fostering program sustainability and a positive impact on school climate. Sample: Item Description Amount Training for Advisors Certified Advisor and Gatekeeper training $[X] Advisor Stipend Supporting additional time Advisors provide $[X] Program Materials Awareness materials and activity guides $[X] Hope Week Activities Resources and promotional materials for events $[X] Monthly Awareness Materials for ongoing student engagement $[X] Events Evaluation Tools Survey tools, data collection, and analysis $[X] support i16 Justification: These expenses will directly support program implementation, including comprehensive training, materials for student and community engagement, and evaluation to ensure the program's impact is measured and understood. This budget has been designed based on identified needs from existing Hope Squad programs and feedback from advisors and administrators. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 19 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Appendices • Letters of Support: From school administrators, community leaders, and mental health professionals who advocate for the Hope Squad program. (See template) • Program Evaluation Data: In reviewing MHRF data from the 2023-24 academic year to present, 95% of referrals were made by non -Hope Squad members. This demonstrates that Hope Squad's programming extends its impact beyond its members, fostering school -wide awareness of resources and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. The data highlights how the program creates a culture of care, equipping the entire school community with the knowledge and confidence to take action when someone may be struggling. • Advisor and Administrator Feedback Excerpts: Quotes from Hope Squad stakeholders in the 2024-2024 academic year that emphasizes the program's positive impact. For instance: o Administrator: "Hope Squad has been a positive connection and reinforcement of our school -wide message of 'All Are Welcome Here'. It has been a great peer to peer program and allows for positive school culture that promotes a sense of belonging." o Advisor: "The most important benefit Hope Squad brings to our school is encouraging and promoting a school climate of kindness and friendship. Hope Squad members connect with students from every level on campus and encourages positive relationships where kiddos have more connectedness and feeling of belonging across the grade levels." o Parent: "Learning about how to help his peers identify when they might need some help has strengthened my son's ability to identify that same thing in himself. His self-awareness has grown as he's helped others grow. He's always been a very compassionate and empathetic kid, and this has only increased with his participation. He loves the community Hope Squad provides and was excited to participate in every meeting and feels like he's making a difference." • Testimonials: From students and advisors who've experienced the benefits of Hope Squad, demonstrating the program's life-saving potential and its role in building a positive school culture. For instance: o "Hope Squad has taught me the importance of inclusivity and compassion as many students can feel isolated and unseen. I now know that every day interactions can help make a connection that positively impacts others" - (Hope Squad Member Abigail W.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 20 Revised Jan 2025 o "Hope Squad helps me connect to my community because [it] has encouraged me to make more friends and attend events and build connections with people that otherwise, I'm not sure I would have made. I feel as though because of Hope Squad, I'm close to a big portion of my school/peers." (Hope Squad Member: Lily L.) o 1 have loved being a part of Hope Squad. I have always been aware of mental health issues and the signs but actually being trained to deal with them has helped me learn a lot more. I feel more secure and comfortable knowing that I will be able to notice the warning signs and know how to deal with the situation accordingly. I also enjoy going to our meetings for our lessons. I have truly learned a lot and feel that I have become a better person because of Hope Squad." (Hope Squad Member, Asma M.) o "Being a part of Hope Squad has been an incredibly profound and meaningful experience for me. It has allowed me to gain invaluable insights and learnings, which have helped me develop my emotional intelligence and hone my problem - solving abilities. These skills have not only enabled me to support my fellow high school students, but they have also fundamentally changed the way I approach helping others." (Hope Squad Member: Saahithi P.) o "The most meaningful thing about Hope Squad tome is being able to educate the student body at my school. Many people do not know what mental health is or even how to take care of their own wellbeing. Hope Squad presents an opportunity to create a positive atmosphere in your school." (Hope Squad Member, Reagan G.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 21 Revised Jan 2025 Additional Supportive Information, Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: Program Components 1. Integrated Gatekeeper Model - HOPE Approach • At the core of Hope Squad is the HOPE Approach, a foundational lesson that builds essential suicide prevention competencies, including understanding protective factors, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. HOPE Approach content is spiraled throughout lessons to continue building knowledge and practicing critical skills in identification and referral. 2. Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: Designed for younger students, the elementary curriculum introduces essential skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness. This foundational framework supports mental wellness and prepares students for more advanced concepts as they progress. Many of these lessons are based on popular books, promoting both reading literacy and social -emotional development. Identifying students who are experiencing difficulties is not only important, but it is also the centerpiece of the program. Informing a trusted adult is the recommended course of action for students. o Secondary: Each year, junior high and high school students learn to identify warning signs, address distress or suicide, and follow referral protocols for timely intervention. This 3-lesson framework is repeated annually to ensure competency. Hope Squad then offers lessons on relationships, self -care, leadership, compassion, mindfulness, empathy, resilience, and coping skills. Advisors can choose from a set number of lessons each year, with new material available for 3 to 4 years. Squads can use both full-length (]-hour) and mini -lesson (under 30 minutes) formats, adapting to different schedules while covering critical concepts. The program emphasizes experiential learning and includes optional activities for the school community and families in each lesson. 3. Program Lesson Strands (Topics) The lessons have been organized into clearly defined strands that provide structure across age levels, with 3 years of material for elementary, junior high and 4 years for High School. HOPE SQUAD' Share the Hope. Save a Life. 22 Revised Jan 2025 o Core Hope Squad Content: Foundational concepts, including team building, the suicide prevention gatekeeper model, and essentials of both peer support and Squad membership. o Suicide Prevention: Comprehensive lessons emphasize mental health literacy and strengthen skills in warning signs identification, the power of protective factors, and connecting peers with appropriate help. o Building Relationships (Elementary)/ Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary): This strand covers peer interactions, communication techniques, empathy, emotional understanding, and fostering positive relationships. In high school, it also includes leadership skills for post -graduation readiness. o Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/ Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): Understanding Ourselves (Elementary) / Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): This strand emphasizes self-awareness and empathy, while also incorporating essential self -care concepts like mindfulness and addressing toxic positivity. o Constructive Choices: Constructive Choices: Guiding students in making positive, responsible decisions, including self -regulation and conflict resolution. This strand also identifies key components of school safety and how to cultivate a safe school community. It teaches students to recognize and support peers who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. o Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/ Developing Resilience (Secondary): Bullying Prevention (Elementary) / Developing Resilience (Secondary): Focusing on kindness and anti -bullying for younger students, advancing to resilience and coping skills for older students. This includes learning how to manage stress, adapt to change, and bounce back from setbacks, as well as techniques for maintaining a positive outlook and fostering perseverance in the face of challenges. 3. Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. These themes largely center around the program, aligning with lessons, national awareness months, community and parent engagement and more. o Schoolwide activities for all students can include: HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 23 Revised Jan 2025 ■ Posters and Social Media Campaigns: Share information about the monthly theme to encourage participation and reinforce mental health messages. • Lunchtime Engagements and Workshops: Provide informal spaces where students can engage with Hope Squad members, participate in stress -relief activities, or learn more about mental health topics. o Faculty and Staff activities can include: ■ Reflection and celebration in staff meetings: Highlighting the theme of the month starts with staff and faculty as well as focal points on allowing space in meetings to reflect and grow around that month's theme. ■ Peer Observation/Mentorship Programs/Staff Highlights: Give space for staff and faculty to practice the theme of the month directly in order to ensure the theme is interwoven throughout the entire school community. o Parent Engagement includes an email or letter that can be sent to parents that highlights the monthly theme and various activities that parents/guardians can practice with their students to continue the theme at home. Activities can include: ■ Family Communication: Taking the form of reflection/celebration practice around the monthly theme these activities center around bringing the family together through conversation. ■ Family Bonding: Activities are also provided that encourage families working together to embody the theme of the month, be it family game night, kindness boards, family gardens, etc. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 24 Revised Jan 2025 Cover Letter [Dear [Grant Funder's Name], On behalf of [School or District Name], we are requesting funding to implement Hope Squad, a peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a safe and supportive school environment, where mental health literacy is prioritized, and students are empowered to seek help for themselves and their peers. Statement of Need: Our school community, like many others, faces a growing need for mental health support, with limited resources to address these challenges comprehensively. Youth suicide rates are rising, and mental health professionals within schools are often stretched thin. Hope Squad offers a solution by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of the school, identifying peers in crisis and connecting them to trusted adults. Project Description: The Hope Squad program will focus on: • Training Advisors and Students: Using the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, we will equip advisors and student leaders with essential suicide prevention skills. • Reducing Stigma and Increasing Awareness: Through peer -led activities, monthly themes, and events like Hope Week, we aim to create a culture of openness and support around mental health. • Building Positive Relationships: These initiatives will strengthen the fabric of our school community, fostering connections and resilience among students. Goals and Objectives: Our program goals include enhancing suicide prevention literacy, building supportive networks within the school, and promoting school -wide engagement. To achieve these goals, we will: 1. Train advisors and student members in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. 2. Conduct ongoing mental health awareness events, including monthly themes and Hope Week. 3. Establish protocols for crisis identification and referral, ensuring timely support for students in need. Expected Impact: We anticipate that Hope Squad will lead to measurable improvements in student well- being, including increased help -seeking behaviors, reduced stigma around mental health, and stronger school community ties. By embedding these principles into our school culture, we aim to create a sustainable, proactive approach to student mental health. We are excited about the opportunity to bring this life -changing program to [School or District Name]. Thank you for considering our application and for your support in fostering a safer, more connected school community. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 25 Revised Jan 2025 Letter of Support Template Dear [Name or Title], On behalf of [School or District Name], I am writing to express our strong support for the implementation of the Hope Squad program at our school. This peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program is designed to empower students to support their peers, reduce mental health stigma, and promote a positive and inclusive school climate. The Hope Squad program addresses critical mental health needs by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of our school. Through this program, they will learn to identify peers in distress and refer them to trusted adults, providing an essential layer of support in our community. With the growing demand for mental health resources and limited school -based mental health staff, Hope Squad offers a sustainable, impactful solution. Key program elements include: • Advisor and Student Training: Utilizing the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, Hope Squad equips participants with essential skills in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. • School -Wide Engagement: Through monthly themes and events like Hope Week, the program fosters a culture of awareness, openness, and support. • Community Involvement: Hope Squad actively involves parents, community organizations, and local mental health resources to build a comprehensive support network for students. We have seen the positive impact of similar initiatives in other schools and are confident that Hope Squad will significantly enhance our efforts to create a safe and supportive environment for all students. The program's focus on proactive peer engagement and connection aligns perfectly with our school's commitment to student well-being and academic success. We are grateful for your consideration of this funding request, which will enable us to bring this vital program to [School or District Name]. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and their families. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 26 PROGRAM INNOVATION Grant Resource This document is designed to help anyone understand, write, and submit grant applications. Whether you're seeking funding for one Squad or a whole district, this guide provides step-by- step instructions, best practices, and examples to support your application process. By following the guidance in this document, you will be well-equipped to create compelling grant proposals that stand out and secure the funding you need. A quick note about metrics and deliverables: It is important to outline clear and measurable metrics that will demonstrate the success and impact of your Hope Squad. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and deliverables will not only guide your project's implementation but also provide tangible evidence to funders that their investment is yielding positive results. As a reminder, Hope Squad is able to provide some specific data in relation to your school or district, if your Advisors have the students, parents, and admins fill it out. All data will be de - identified before it is sent, ensuring confidentiality and privacy. However, Hope Squad does not claim responsibility for the completion of any grant objectives as you lay them out in your grant document. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. Revised Jan 2025 LearningAbout Grants..................................................................................................................3 Common Inclusions in Grant Applications.................................................................................3 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications......................................................4 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad.........................................5 SampleGrant Timeline.............................................................................................................6 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad.......................................................................7 CoverLetter.............................................................................................................................7 ExecutiveSummary..................................................................................................................7 Statementof Need...................................................................................................................8 ProjectDescription...................................................................................................................9 Summary of Hope Squad Program Components....................................................................9 ProjectGoals.........................................................................................................................11 Objectives..........................................................................................................................11 PhasedImplementation Plan..................................................................................................12 ExpectedOutcomes...............................................................................................................13 Evaluation and Metrics for Success.....................................................................................14 Target Population and Demographics......................................................................................17 SustainabilityPlan..................................................................................................................18 Organizational Background and Capacity................................................................................18 Budget and Justification..........................................................................................................19 GrantAppendices...............................................................................................................20 Additional Supportive Information: ............................................................................................. 22 Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: ................................................................ 22 CoverLetter...........................................................................................................................25 Letterof Support Template......................................................................................................26 2 Revised Jan 2025 Learning About Grants Common Inclusions in Grant Applications 1. Cover Letter: A brief, formal letter introducing the applicant, summarizing the project, and explaining why the funding request aligns with the grantor's mission. 2. Executive Summary: A concise summary of the project, outlining its objectives, expected outcomes, target audience, and the funding request amount. 3. Statement of Need: A section describing the problem or need the project addresses, supported by data, research, and specific evidence of why the issue is important. 4. Project Description: Details about the project, often including: • Goals and Objectives: Clear goals and measurable objectives. • Activities and Timeline: Specific actions planned, and a timeline for implementation. • Methodology: The approach or strategies used to achieve the objectives. 5. Target Population and Demographics: Information about the people or community served, including demographics, location, and unique needs. 6. Evaluation Plan: A plan to assess the project's impact and effectiveness, often outlining metrics, data collection methods, and reporting practices. 7. Sustainability Plan: A description of how the project will continue after the grant period ends, either through other funding sources or ongoing community support. 8. Budget and Justification: A detailed budget with explanations for each expense, demonstrating responsible use of funds and alignment with project goals. 9. Organizational Background and Capacity: Information about the applicant organization's history, mission, past accomplishments, and its capacity to implement the proposed project. 10. Appendices: Additional materials, such as letters of support, resumes of key personnel, charts, data, or other relevant documents to reinforce the proposal. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 3 Revised Jan 2025 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications ASPECT Application Process Review Process Funding Requirements and Priorities Compliance and Reporting Budget and Allowable Expenses Match Requirements Timing and Availability FEDERAL/GOV'T GRANTS PRIVATE FOUNDATION GRANTS Highly structured with standardized forms and strict guidelines, usually submitted through government portals like grants.gov. Reviews are rigorous and standardized, with multiple reviewers and specific scoring metrics. The process can be lengthy, with results taking months to release. Often prioritize programs with broad public impact, aligning with policy goals. Require evidence -based programs with specific success metrics. Compliance requirements include detailed financial documentation, regular progress reports, and adherence to federal regulations. Failure to comply can result in loss of funding. Follow strict federal guidelines, exclude indirect costs and prohibited items like lobbying. Be cautious with reimbursement grants, as they often require you to spend money prior to receiving money and may not be suitable for your needs. Often require matching funds from the applicant, either cash or in -kind, to show investment. Issued annually with predictable schedules and published notices, helping organizations plan their applications. More flexible with unique guidelines, submitted via email, online forms, or foundation - specific portals, often starting with Letters of Inquiry (LOls). Reviews vary from informal to structured, often involving board members or advisors. Timelines are typically shorter than for government grants. Focus on the founders' or board's interests, often funding innovative or niche projects not fitting federal criteria. Reporting often focuses on project outcomes with more flexibility and less intensive financial scrutiny. Typically offer more flexibility in allowable expenses, including areas like capacity building or indirect costs. Rarely require matching funds but may prefer evidence of other funding for project sustainability. Lack regular deadlines, often operating on a rolling basis or offering funds periodically. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 4 Revised Jan 2025 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad To maximize success, schools or districts should approach grant applications strategically. Here's a step-by-step guide to choosing the right grant and applying successfully: 1. Identifying Needs and Objectives • Assess Program Needs: Determine the specific needs that a grant would address (e.g., mental health programming, curriculum updates, technology upgrades). • Define Objectives: Outline clear, measurable objectives to address those needs. 2. Research Potential Grants • Compare Federal vs. Private Grants: Choose which type suits your project best. • Matching Criteria: Ensure the grant's goals align with your objectives. • Funding and Restrictions: Consider the needed funding and allowed expenses. 3. Assess Readiness and Resources • Capacity to Manage the Grant: Determine if the school has the personnel and systems to manage the grant effectively. • Gather Supporting Data: Collect relevant data to support the application. • Confirm Stakeholder Support: Get buy -in from key stakeholders. 4. Draft a Timeline and Team for the Grant Application Process • Identify Key Personnel: Assign a grant team with relevant expertise. • Set a Timeline: Create a realistic timeline for preparing, writing, and submitting the application. • Budget Planning: Start drafting a budget that matches grant requirements. 5. Writing the Grant Application • Review the grant's guidelines in detail and complete each section thoroughly. • Clearly explain why the program is necessary, detail goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. • Provide a clear, itemized budget with justifications and describe how you'll assess the program success. • Ensure the application is clear, well -organized, and free of errors. 6. Submit the Application and Follow Up • Double -Check Requirements: Confirm that all required documents are included. • Submit Early and Follow Up: Confirm receipt and inquire about the decision timeline. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 5 Revised Jan 2025 Sample Grant Timeline This timeline assumes a 12-week period leading up to the grant submission deadline, though you can adjust it based on specific grant requirements and internal timelines. Week 1-2: Identify project needs: collaborate with stakeholders, set goals. Research preparation grants, check eligibility. Hold stakeholder meeting: confirm alignment, assign and roles. Set timeline: form team, assign roles, and set deadlines. planning Week 3-4: Gather Supporting Data: Collect statistics, research findings, program Data successes, community needs, and student demographics Collection Draft Program Description: Begin drafting the project narrative by focusing on and the goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. Identify and outline potential Drafting measurable outcomes. Budget Planning: Collaborate with the finance team to create an initial budget that outlines all projected costs, including training, materials, staffing, and evaluation expenses. Week 5-6: Statement of Need: Use collected data to explain why the project is vital for Writing the your school or district. Application Refine Project Description and Objectives: Detail each objective and activity, aligning them with the grant's goals. Specify timelines, roles, and required resources. Budget Justification: Finalize the budget and justify each expense, ensuring they align with grant guidelines. Evaluation Plan: Outline how to assess the project's success, including metrics, data collection methods, and reporting requirements. Week 7-8: Internal Review: Share the application draft with team members and Review and stakeholders for review and feedback. Ensure alignment with the school. Focus Revise on clarity, conciseness, and alignment with the grantor's objectives. Proofread: Check grammar, formatting, and consistency. Ensure compliance with the application's guidelines. Week 9-10: Prepare Required Attachments: Compile required supporting documents, Finalization such as letters of support, resumes, organizational charts, and tax status and documentation. Approval Administrative Approval: Present the final draft to school administrators or district leadership for approval. Gather necessary signatures from authorized personnel (e.g., superintendent, principal, finance officer). Week 11: Double -Check Requirements: Review the application checklist to ensure all Submission components are included and complete. Preparation Submission Platform Review: Confirm familiarity with the grant's submission process (e.g., online portal, email, or mail). Prepare digital copies in the required formats. Submit Application Early: Aim to submit the application a few days before the deadline to allow for technical issues or last-minute changes. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 0 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad Cover Letter Purpose: Introduce the school or district, outline the need for suicide prevention, and explain why Hope Squad is the ideal solution. • Sample Content: At [school or district name], we aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for all our students. Currently, we are identifying several mental health and school safety issues that need to be addressed. These include [increased levels of stress and anxiety among students, as well as concerns about bullying and emergency preparedness.] To tackle these issues, we have [implemented several measures. Our initiatives include enhancing our school's counseling services, organizing workshops on mental health awareness, and establishing clear protocols for handling emergencies and bullying incidents.] We are committed to continuously improving our approach to ensure the well-being and safety of our school community. • On behalf of [School or District Name], we are seeking funding to implement Hope Squad, an evidence -based, peer -led suicide prevention program. This program helps students identify and support peers in crisis, fostering a safe, stigma -free school environment. It encourages students to recognize warning signs and provides them with resources for support. Feedback from administrators shows that Hope Squad contributes to a positive school culture, and we would like to join the thousands of schools and 43 states that currently have this program in place. • Hope Squad equips students with essential skills to manage daily stress, promotes emotional literacy, leadership, safety, and actively discourages drug use. Additionally, it addresses the dangers of social media, educating students on recognizing risks like cyberbullying and the impact on mental health. Executive Summary Overview: Summarize the project's main goals, the intended impact, and the funding amount requested. • Sample Content: "[School or District Name] requests [amount] to launch Hope Squad in [number of schools]. This initiative will support student -led mental health advocacy, reduce suicide stigma, and foster a supportive school climate. Funds will enable advisor training, student resources, and engagement activities, impacting [estimated number] students and their families." HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 7 Revised Jan 2025 • Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [specify grade levels, e.g., 6-12], offering a structured curriculum and ongoing peer support. This funding will allow us to train advisors, engage students, and run awareness events, including the school -wide Hope Week. Through Hope Squad, our goal is to create a culture of connection, resilience, and hope within our school. Statement of Need Problem Description: Highlight the need for youth mental health support and suicide prevention in your school or district, referencing local or national statistics if possible. • Sample Content: Youth suicide rates are rising nationwide, with many students facing mental health challenges without adequate support. In our community, [insert relevant local statistics or insights, e.g., recent mental health statistics for the area or challenges specific to the student population]. Schools play a crucial role in addressing these needs by creating environments where students feel safe and supported. • Despite these needs, our school currently lacks a structured, peer -led mental health program that directly addresses suicide prevention. Research and feedback from schools with Hope Squad programs indicate its effectiveness in reducing stigma, increasing student connectedness, and providing students with the resources they need to help each other. Implementing Hope Squad in [School or District Name] will address this critical gap and create a foundation for sustainable mental health support. • Supporting Points: o Youth mental health needs are rising nationwide, with suicide prevention a top priority in school settings. o Many school staff and administrators report needing more resources, training, and consistent opportunities for student engagement to fully realize Hope Squad's potential. o Include any crisis referral data or mental health screener data you may already have for your school, district or county. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 8 Revised Jan 2025 Project Description This project aims to implement the Hope Squad program at [School Name] to create a peer -led suicide prevention initiative. The program empowers students to identify signs of distress in their peers and connect them with trusted adults. By training students —Hope Squad Members —and certified advisors, it fosters a supportive environment for mental wellness. Squad Members act as additional eyes and ears, observing signs of distress and reporting them, rather than serving as counselors. Hope Squad offers a comprehensive gatekeeper model reinforced through various lessons. It includes experiential learning, confidence building, mental health literacy, and self -care knowledge for students. Squad Members are selected by their classmates as peers they trust and would approach to talk to. These selected members are then screened by adults, approved for participation by their parents, and introduced to Hope Squad through a series of meetings and events. Trained Advisors (school personnel managing the Squad) have streamlined access to program resources through a virtual portal, complete with direct links to lesson materials, monthly activity toolkits, and a Hope Week Toolkit. Advisors can quickly access content, reducing preparation time and helping them focus on meaningful interactions with students. The lessons imparted during Hope Squad meetings are actively implemented within the broader school community through the efforts of individual members, monthly themes, and school -wide events and activities. The initiatives of Hope Squad are integrated into the daily school environment in a manner that avoids adding extra burden or distracting from educational objectives. This approach ensures that support is nurtured not only within the school but also extends into students' homes and the wider community. Summary of Hope Squad Program Components A more detailed description of the following information is available in the "Additional Supportive Information" section of this document, however the highlights listed here may be beneficial to additional questions in the Project section of a grant application. • HOPE Approach: A foundational lesson that teaches suicide prevention, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. • Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: The elementary curriculum introduces key skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness, laying the groundwork for students' mental wellness and future learning. Many lessons use books to promote reading literacy and social -emotional development while HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life 9 Revised Jan 2025 emphasizing the importance of identifying and informing trusted adults about peers in need. o Secondary: Junior high/high school students annually learn to identify warning signs and follow referral protocols. The program covers relationships, self -care, leadership, empathy, resilience, and coping skills, with flexible lesson formats. It emphasizes experiential learning and includes activities for the school community and families. Lesson Strands (Structured topics spanning age levels with years of material) • Core Hope Squad Content • Suicide Prevention • Building Relationships (Elementary)/Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary) • Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/Cultivating Empathy (Secondary) • Constructive Choices • Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/Developing Resilience (Secondary) Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. • Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. Parent and Community Involvement • Ongoing Parent Education: Regular information for parents to educate them on mental health topics and how to support their children. • Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local mental health organizations, community leaders, and businesses to provide additional resources and support for students and families. • Regular Feedback and Improvement: Collecting feedback from students, parents, and educators to continually improve the program and ensure it meets the community's needs. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 10 Revised Jan 2025 Project Goals Goals are broad, overarching outcomes that the program aims to achieve over time. They define the ultimate impact of implementing the Hope Squad program. Enhance Suicide Prevention Literacy and Stigma Reduction: Foster a culture of mental health awareness where students feel empowered to openly discuss mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. 2. Strengthen School Safety and Support Networks: Create a supportive environment where students, through their training as Hope Squad members, act as the "eyes and ears" of the school, recognizing peers in crisis and connecting them with trusted adults. 3. Promote School -Wide Engagement and Community Building: Encourage positive relationships and a sense of belonging through school -wide events such as Hope Week and monthly awareness campaigns. Objectives Objectives are specific, measurable actions that support the achievement of the program's goals. They outline what will be accomplished within the grant period. 1. Train Advisors and Students in Suicide Prevention: Conduct [X number] of HOPE Approach training sessions for advisors and student members, equipping them with gatekeeping skills to identify and refer peers in distress. 2. Increase Peer -Led Engagement in Suicide Prevention Efforts: Implement [X number] of peer -led mental health awareness activities and workshops, increasing participation and reinforcing suicide prevention literacy among the student body. 3. Facilitate Regular Mental Health Awareness Events: Organize and execute monthly themes and events, including Hope Week, to promote consistent engagement and education around mental wellness. 4. Enhance Crisis Identification and Referral: Establish a clear protocol for Hope Squad members to report concerns to trained advisors, aiming for [specific metric, e.g.,100% of reported cases receiving appropriate follow-up]. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 11 Revised Jan 2025 Phased Implementation Plan Phase 1: Program Setup and Advisor Training (Months 1-2) • Advisor Selection: Select school staff to serve as Hope Squad advisors, ensuring they have a strong interest in student mental health and well-being. Advisors will be responsible for guiding students, facilitating discussions, and organizing events. • Advisor Training: Advisors will undergo an estimated 6 hours of comprehensive training in the HOPE Approach, program implementation guidance, skills -based practice on how to lead discussions on mental health, manage student questions, and support squad members. Advisors also learn how to utilize Hope Squad's online portal for resources and program guidance through a series of microlessons available on demand. • Baseline Data Collection: Collect initial data to assess the current mental health climate, student connectedness, and awareness levels related to mental health and suicide. This may include surveys, attendance records, and input from counselors and administration. Phase 2: Student Selection and Training (Months 2-3) • Student Nominations and Selection: Identify and nominate students based on their trustworthiness, empathy, and leadership qualities. Teachers, counselors, and peers may contribute nominations to ensure diverse representation within the Hope Squad. • HOPE Approach Training for Students: Once selected, Hope Squad members will participate in training sessions to learn the HOPE Approach. Training topics will include recognizing mental health warning signs, handling sensitive conversations, and understanding when to refer peers to adults. • Program Introduction to School Community: Host an informational event to introduce Hope Squad to the broader school community, explaining the program's purpose, how students can engage with squad members, and the availability of support resources. Phase 3: Program Activation and Initial Engagement (Months 3-6) • Monthly Hope Squad Meetings: Begin regular meetings with Hope Squad members to discuss mental health topics, practice skills learned during training, and plan school -wide activities. Meetings will also provide a safe space for members to share their experiences and receive support. • Hope Week Planning and Execution: Organize Hope Week as a major event to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention across the school. Activities may include guest speakers, workshops, and peer -led activities that promote inclusion and empathy. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 12 Revised Jan 2025 • Monthly Awareness Themes: Implement monthly themes focused on mental health awareness, resilience, and support strategies. Themes may include "Kindness and Inclusion," "Self -Care and Wellness," and "Building Connections," with activities aligned to each theme. Phase 4: Evaluation and Continuous Improvement (Ongoing, with Quarterly Checkpoints) • Ongoing Feedback Collection: Gather ongoing feedback from Hope Squad members, advisors, and the school community. Feedback will inform adjustments to the program and help address any emerging needs or challenges. • Data Tracking and Progress Reporting: Track key metrics such as referrals made, advisor and student satisfaction, participation in Hope Week, and attendance at monthly meetings. Quarterly reports will be prepared for internal review and grant reporting. End -of -Year Assessment and Review: Conduct a comprehensive assessment at the end of the school year, reviewing data to evaluate the program's effectiveness in improving mental health awareness, student connectedness, and help -seeking behaviors. Use this data to make program improvements for the following year. Expected Outcomes Upon successful implementation, [School Name] will develop a proactive and sustainable peer - to -peer suicide prevention program that emphasizes collaboration among student leaders and is underpinned by strong school faculty and staff support. Hope Squad aims to cultivate an inclusive and empathetic environment that empowers students to address mental health challenges effectively while providing resilient support to their peers and the broader school community. The program incorporates structured components to achieve these goals, including training sessions and interactive activities tailored to enhance students' and staff's efforts in suicide prevention. These adaptable lesson formats will allow for continuous mental health education and gatekeeper skill development, particularly equipping students with the tools to identify and address mental health concerns within themselves and among their classmates. Moreover, the Hope Squad program will actively engage the selected Squad members and the entire school population, promoting a culture of openness and understanding surrounding mental health. By fostering strong connections and proactive support systems, this initiative will encourage students to seek help and support each other in overcoming personal challenges. Ultimately, [School Name] aspires to create a healthier school environment where every student feels valued, understood, and equipped to contribute positively to their mental well-being and that of others, and believes Hope Squad will help [School Name] achieve this aim. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 13 Revised Jan 2025 Evaluation and Metrics for Success Approach: Measure success through both quantitative (e.g., referral rates, engagement levels) and qualitative (e.g., advisor and member feedback) metrics at multiple time points. Note for Your Grant Writing Team: While Hope Squad supports school data collection by providing access to de -identified results from students, advisors, and parents, Hope Squad is not responsible for achieving your grant outcomes as specified in your grant application. The pre - and post -survey data collection is solely dependent on whether Advisors administer the surveys or [school/district] opts -out of collection. Data is only shared with those having a school domain address and doesn't capture identifying information. If you have questions, or need assistance, email our research team at research@hopesquad.com Sample: "We will evaluate the program's impact through both quantitative and qualitative measures collected at multiple time points. Pre-, mid-, and post -program surveys will assess changes in mental health literacy, stigma reduction, and help -seeking behaviors among students. Additionally, we will collect data on referral rates, engagement levels in peer -led activities, and participation in events like Hope Week. Qualitative feedback from advisors, Hope Squad members, and other stakeholders will be gathered regularly through interviews, focus groups, and written reflections. This will help us understand program challenges, successes, and opportunities for improvement. By evaluating progress throughout the program and not just at the end, we aim to ensure continuous growth, timely adjustments, and sustained impact." Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Increased Mental Health Awareness: Measure changes in student understanding of mental health concepts (e.g., suicide prevention skills and gatekeeper knowledge), as reflected in pre- and post -program surveys. Student Help -Seeking Behavior: Track the number of students referred to counselors by Hope Squad members and the frequency of peer -to -peer support interactions. Program Engagement and Visibility: Monitor participation in Hope Week and monthly awareness events, as well as feedback from school -wide surveys on program visibility and impact. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 14 Revised Jan 2025 Data Collection Methods: Member Pre- and Post -Surveys: Administer surveys at the beginning and end of the school year to measure changes in the following outcomes. Suggested Target: 75% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Elementary Measured Outcomes: - Bullying Resistance - Enjoyment - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy - Self -care Awareness - Stress Secondary Measured Outcomes: - Compassion Fatigue - Compassion Satisfaction - Gatekeeper Knowledge - Suicide Prevention Knowledge & Skills - Peer Support Engagement - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy Stakeholder Pre- and Post -Surveys: Hope Squad school administrators, advisors, and parents are encouraged to complete provided surveys at the beginning and end of each academic year. Results from these surveys can speak to whether and how stakeholders believe Hope Squad has impacted the school environment and overall satisfaction with the program. Suggested Target: 50% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Mental Health Referral Forms (MHRF): These forms are designed to capture instances of mental concerns among any student within a school - not just Hope Squad members. The data collected is indicative of how members' learnings (e.g., addressing mental health stigma, willingness to engage in help -seeking behaviors, etc.) and schoolwide activities permeate throughout the student body. Moreover, the MHRF can capture how a student was referred to a trusted adult, the nature of the student's mental health concern, relevant adverse events, and what resources were provided to the student. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 15 Revised Jan 2025 Suggested Target: Report the total number of MHRF collected as well as the number or ratio) of referrals provided by Hope Squad members versus students in the general population. Additional metrics of potential interest are student demographics, the nature of each concern (e.g., suicidal ideation with intent to harm oneself versus suicidal ideation without intent to harm oneself), and the frequency of each type of follow-up resource provided to students in need. Additional Metrics for Schools to Consider Collecting Independently: Advisor and Member Reports: Collect feedback from advisors and Hope Squad members after each major event to assess engagement, program challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Collect the number of members trained. Quarterly Reports: Generate quarterly reports to continuously assess the program's impact on student connectedness, awareness, and safety. Stigma Reduction: If wanting to report specifically on stigma reduction, we recommend using a validated survey instrument, such as the Stigma of Suicide Scale (SOSS-SF). Hope Squad's previous research (2022) has used this scale. School Wide Changes: Schoolwide Student Survey Pre -Hope Squad formation and Post implementation would greatly enhance the evidence of impact. If you do choose this measure, Hope Squad would love to know about your findings! HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 16 Revised Jan 2025 Target Population and Demographics • Description: Describe the student population the program will serve, including demographic details and any specific community needs. • Demographics: Hope Squad programming is designed to serve students in grades 4 through 12, with the opportunity to impact students from kindergarten through their senior year of high school. The program specifically targets students who might otherwise lack access to mental health resources, equipping them with tools to support one another. Hope Squad prioritizes literacy, accessibility, and cultural relevance. Research suggests that larger teams of peer supporters AND those that are representative of the student body can result in a better diffusion of suicide prevention program's messaging in schools (Pickering et al., 2018; 2022). • Sample: Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [6-12, etc.] across [specify school or district area, e.g., rural/suburban/urban settings]. Many students face barriers to mental health care, and peer -led support can be a powerful first step in addressing these challenges. The program will prioritize inclusivity and support students from diverse backgrounds, including those in underserved communities who may lack access to mental health resources. Member Demographics collected via Hope Squad: • Age (Birth Month/Year) • Grade Level • Gender Identity • Racial/Ethnic Identity • State • School Name HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 17 Revised Jan 2025 Sustainability Plan • Strategy: Funding will address critical needs for training and program materials, empowering advisors to maintain the program effectively. By establishing a sustainable model that includes a student council, trained advisors, and maintaining continuity with members who serve on the squad year after year, the team operates efficiently. • Long -Term Plan: Secure sustainable funding through school budgets and community partnerships, with continued collaboration with mental health organizations • Sample: This funding will provide the resources needed to establish Hope Squad and support its initial implementation. Our goal is to sustain the program through continued collaboration with school counselors, community mental health organizations, district -level funding, partnerships with mental health or healthcare organizations or national funding through Title IV or Title I. We will integrate Hope Squad activities into our school's yearly calendar to ensure its longevity. At an estimated expense of $6.00 per student*, this program remains affordable year over year. By building relationships and a culture of support, we anticipate that the program will grow and remain a vital part of our school's mental health resources. Organizational Background and Capacity • School or District Background: Describe the school's commitment to student well- being and previous mental health initiatives. • Capacity to Implement Program: Highlight existing mental health resources (e.g., counselors, school psychologists) that will support Hope Squad. Sample: [School or District Name] has a long-standing commitment to student well-being, previously implementing [mention any relevant programs or initiatives, e.g., anti -bullying campaigns, mental health awareness events]. Our counseling and administrative teams have the experience needed to support Hope Squad's implementation, and we have strong relationships with local mental health organizations that will reinforce the program's goals. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 18 Revised Jan 2025 Budget and Justification • Itemized Budget: o Training and Resources: Fund Certified Advisor training for a minimum of 2 advisors per school, 2 seats to Advisor Gatekeeper training (QPR, LivingWorks Start) as well as any resources or stipends needed. o Community Engagement and Awareness: Provide for Hope Week and monthly mental health awareness activities to promote school -wide support and reduce stigma. o Implementation Support: Allocate funds for materials, scheduling support, and resources that facilitate regular, impactful Hope Squad meetings. • Justification: Each item in the budget directly addresses areas identified by advisors and administrators, fostering program sustainability and a positive impact on school climate. Sample: Item Description Amount Training for Advisors Certified Advisor and Gatekeeper training $[X] Advisor Stipend Supporting additional time Advisors provide $[X] Program Materials Awareness materials and activity guides $[X] Hope Week Activities Resources and promotional materials for events $[X] Monthly Awareness Materials for ongoing student engagement $[X] Events Evaluation Tools Survey tools, data collection, and analysis $[X] support i16 Justification: These expenses will directly support program implementation, including comprehensive training, materials for student and community engagement, and evaluation to ensure the program's impact is measured and understood. This budget has been designed based on identified needs from existing Hope Squad programs and feedback from advisors and administrators. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 19 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Appendices • Letters of Support: From school administrators, community leaders, and mental health professionals who advocate for the Hope Squad program. (See template) • Program Evaluation Data: In reviewing MHRF data from the 2023-24 academic year to present, 95% of referrals were made by non -Hope Squad members. This demonstrates that Hope Squad's programming extends its impact beyond its members, fostering school -wide awareness of resources and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. The data highlights how the program creates a culture of care, equipping the entire school community with the knowledge and confidence to take action when someone may be struggling. • Advisor and Administrator Feedback Excerpts: Quotes from Hope Squad stakeholders in the 2024-2024 academic year that emphasizes the program's positive impact. For instance: o Administrator: "Hope Squad has been a positive connection and reinforcement of our school -wide message of 'All Are Welcome Here'. It has been a great peer to peer program and allows for positive school culture that promotes a sense of belonging." o Advisor: "The most important benefit Hope Squad brings to our school is encouraging and promoting a school climate of kindness and friendship. Hope Squad members connect with students from every level on campus and encourages positive relationships where kiddos have more connectedness and feeling of belonging across the grade levels." o Parent: "Learning about how to help his peers identify when they might need some help has strengthened my son's ability to identify that same thing in himself. His self-awareness has grown as he's helped others grow. He's always been a very compassionate and empathetic kid, and this has only increased with his participation. He loves the community Hope Squad provides and was excited to participate in every meeting and feels like he's making a difference." • Testimonials: From students and advisors who've experienced the benefits of Hope Squad, demonstrating the program's life-saving potential and its role in building a positive school culture. For instance: o "Hope Squad has taught me the importance of inclusivity and compassion as many students can feel isolated and unseen. I now know that every day interactions can help make a connection that positively impacts others" - (Hope Squad Member Abigail W.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 20 Revised Jan 2025 o "Hope Squad helps me connect to my community because [it] has encouraged me to make more friends and attend events and build connections with people that otherwise, I'm not sure I would have made. I feel as though because of Hope Squad, I'm close to a big portion of my school/peers." (Hope Squad Member: Lily L.) o 1 have loved being a part of Hope Squad. I have always been aware of mental health issues and the signs but actually being trained to deal with them has helped me learn a lot more. I feel more secure and comfortable knowing that I will be able to notice the warning signs and know how to deal with the situation accordingly. I also enjoy going to our meetings for our lessons. I have truly learned a lot and feel that I have become a better person because of Hope Squad." (Hope Squad Member, Asma M.) o "Being a part of Hope Squad has been an incredibly profound and meaningful experience for me. It has allowed me to gain invaluable insights and learnings, which have helped me develop my emotional intelligence and hone my problem - solving abilities. These skills have not only enabled me to support my fellow high school students, but they have also fundamentally changed the way I approach helping others." (Hope Squad Member: Saahithi P.) o "The most meaningful thing about Hope Squad tome is being able to educate the student body at my school. Many people do not know what mental health is or even how to take care of their own wellbeing. Hope Squad presents an opportunity to create a positive atmosphere in your school." (Hope Squad Member, Reagan G.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 21 Revised Jan 2025 Additional Supportive Information, Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: Program Components 1. Integrated Gatekeeper Model - HOPE Approach • At the core of Hope Squad is the HOPE Approach, a foundational lesson that builds essential suicide prevention competencies, including understanding protective factors, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. HOPE Approach content is spiraled throughout lessons to continue building knowledge and practicing critical skills in identification and referral. 2. Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: Designed for younger students, the elementary curriculum introduces essential skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness. This foundational framework supports mental wellness and prepares students for more advanced concepts as they progress. Many of these lessons are based on popular books, promoting both reading literacy and social -emotional development. Identifying students who are experiencing difficulties is not only important, but it is also the centerpiece of the program. Informing a trusted adult is the recommended course of action for students. o Secondary: Each year, junior high and high school students learn to identify warning signs, address distress or suicide, and follow referral protocols for timely intervention. This 3-lesson framework is repeated annually to ensure competency. Hope Squad then offers lessons on relationships, self -care, leadership, compassion, mindfulness, empathy, resilience, and coping skills. Advisors can choose from a set number of lessons each year, with new material available for 3 to 4 years. Squads can use both full-length (]-hour) and mini -lesson (under 30 minutes) formats, adapting to different schedules while covering critical concepts. The program emphasizes experiential learning and includes optional activities for the school community and families in each lesson. 3. Program Lesson Strands (Topics) The lessons have been organized into clearly defined strands that provide structure across age levels, with 3 years of material for elementary, junior high and 4 years for High School. HOPE SQUAD' Share the Hope. Save a Life. 22 Revised Jan 2025 o Core Hope Squad Content: Foundational concepts, including team building, the suicide prevention gatekeeper model, and essentials of both peer support and Squad membership. o Suicide Prevention: Comprehensive lessons emphasize mental health literacy and strengthen skills in warning signs identification, the power of protective factors, and connecting peers with appropriate help. o Building Relationships (Elementary)/ Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary): This strand covers peer interactions, communication techniques, empathy, emotional understanding, and fostering positive relationships. In high school, it also includes leadership skills for post -graduation readiness. o Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/ Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): Understanding Ourselves (Elementary) / Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): This strand emphasizes self-awareness and empathy, while also incorporating essential self -care concepts like mindfulness and addressing toxic positivity. o Constructive Choices: Constructive Choices: Guiding students in making positive, responsible decisions, including self -regulation and conflict resolution. This strand also identifies key components of school safety and how to cultivate a safe school community. It teaches students to recognize and support peers who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. o Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/ Developing Resilience (Secondary): Bullying Prevention (Elementary) / Developing Resilience (Secondary): Focusing on kindness and anti -bullying for younger students, advancing to resilience and coping skills for older students. This includes learning how to manage stress, adapt to change, and bounce back from setbacks, as well as techniques for maintaining a positive outlook and fostering perseverance in the face of challenges. 3. Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. These themes largely center around the program, aligning with lessons, national awareness months, community and parent engagement and more. o Schoolwide activities for all students can include: HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 23 Revised Jan 2025 ■ Posters and Social Media Campaigns: Share information about the monthly theme to encourage participation and reinforce mental health messages. • Lunchtime Engagements and Workshops: Provide informal spaces where students can engage with Hope Squad members, participate in stress -relief activities, or learn more about mental health topics. o Faculty and Staff activities can include: ■ Reflection and celebration in staff meetings: Highlighting the theme of the month starts with staff and faculty as well as focal points on allowing space in meetings to reflect and grow around that month's theme. ■ Peer Observation/Mentorship Programs/Staff Highlights: Give space for staff and faculty to practice the theme of the month directly in order to ensure the theme is interwoven throughout the entire school community. o Parent Engagement includes an email or letter that can be sent to parents that highlights the monthly theme and various activities that parents/guardians can practice with their students to continue the theme at home. Activities can include: ■ Family Communication: Taking the form of reflection/celebration practice around the monthly theme these activities center around bringing the family together through conversation. ■ Family Bonding: Activities are also provided that encourage families working together to embody the theme of the month, be it family game night, kindness boards, family gardens, etc. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 24 Revised Jan 2025 Cover Letter [Dear [Grant Funder's Name], On behalf of [School or District Name], we are requesting funding to implement Hope Squad, a peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a safe and supportive school environment, where mental health literacy is prioritized, and students are empowered to seek help for themselves and their peers. Statement of Need: Our school community, like many others, faces a growing need for mental health support, with limited resources to address these challenges comprehensively. Youth suicide rates are rising, and mental health professionals within schools are often stretched thin. Hope Squad offers a solution by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of the school, identifying peers in crisis and connecting them to trusted adults. Project Description: The Hope Squad program will focus on: • Training Advisors and Students: Using the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, we will equip advisors and student leaders with essential suicide prevention skills. • Reducing Stigma and Increasing Awareness: Through peer -led activities, monthly themes, and events like Hope Week, we aim to create a culture of openness and support around mental health. • Building Positive Relationships: These initiatives will strengthen the fabric of our school community, fostering connections and resilience among students. Goals and Objectives: Our program goals include enhancing suicide prevention literacy, building supportive networks within the school, and promoting school -wide engagement. To achieve these goals, we will: 1. Train advisors and student members in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. 2. Conduct ongoing mental health awareness events, including monthly themes and Hope Week. 3. Establish protocols for crisis identification and referral, ensuring timely support for students in need. Expected Impact: We anticipate that Hope Squad will lead to measurable improvements in student well- being, including increased help -seeking behaviors, reduced stigma around mental health, and stronger school community ties. By embedding these principles into our school culture, we aim to create a sustainable, proactive approach to student mental health. We are excited about the opportunity to bring this life -changing program to [School or District Name]. Thank you for considering our application and for your support in fostering a safer, more connected school community. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 25 Revised Jan 2025 Letter of Support Template Dear [Name or Title], On behalf of [School or District Name], I am writing to express our strong support for the implementation of the Hope Squad program at our school. This peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program is designed to empower students to support their peers, reduce mental health stigma, and promote a positive and inclusive school climate. The Hope Squad program addresses critical mental health needs by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of our school. Through this program, they will learn to identify peers in distress and refer them to trusted adults, providing an essential layer of support in our community. With the growing demand for mental health resources and limited school -based mental health staff, Hope Squad offers a sustainable, impactful solution. Key program elements include: • Advisor and Student Training: Utilizing the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, Hope Squad equips participants with essential skills in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. • School -Wide Engagement: Through monthly themes and events like Hope Week, the program fosters a culture of awareness, openness, and support. • Community Involvement: Hope Squad actively involves parents, community organizations, and local mental health resources to build a comprehensive support network for students. We have seen the positive impact of similar initiatives in other schools and are confident that Hope Squad will significantly enhance our efforts to create a safe and supportive environment for all students. The program's focus on proactive peer engagement and connection aligns perfectly with our school's commitment to student well-being and academic success. We are grateful for your consideration of this funding request, which will enable us to bring this vital program to [School or District Name]. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and their families. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 26 0 s V kA N O N LLP3 Lf1 a` N 2H N m cr a) CL O y V � a, Q.� Ln O a) 0- V ly a V O L CL T IA L c � O v + N v i 0o Q ai o v c A Ln '' Ln `~ O c o `" o O a U LA OU o �� U- M M a { Ln O N N > L Q O O +' i � V _ LnLn .v > s O Ln + Ln N L N O LA LA Q N U [6 Ln 4-1 IA u Ln 0 Ln o U c OLn O >; V p u Ln kn c U- U 4J M N a N N C = O (U O Q O c 4 Ln O " o a vn c vi E O 'M v� Q +� p Ln - j M Q N G� -M OJ N i O O �_ O • u v � O U moo Ln v B O N u O M N _� V v 0 0 C — C3) p D IA4J .� C •— E o R N O i p Q) /H y/ Q j U L Q N 0- .O Q O .0 - a + o vNi Q) N ULn m U •� i O c (U W O a1 p v) ca O a o �N0Q� M ON M N Ln N Q Oft i a _ u 41 'j R LJ i Q Ln ii- U M N a - Q O N ® 0 � _ Ra�caa 4J Ol U O s a L• L 0 O LM O 4- 41 tA ma Mhd tA O 40 m O r^a CL �O V_ . i 4*0 tA O O V •- o i } o :3 LA p >1-0 o Q = v� O o o %A u E W ._ a E .� vi L CL O co iA vi cB N o u a� Ln Q v � cv u cB � CT O N L O 14— i o -0 N _ V L ru Q � Q L V1 o G � ? 4- Ln Q = C� C O = � � O LA i Ln ec'04-Q _ O E ECO-) :E Ln a, oC o-, — a� v L 44 NNNZI E x W 40 C: N C V E o _0 � N 40 Q a) �O N N > 40 0 C7 V � LMvi O i .0 L O ° Ion .� o 0 � L oL. a, O C O O > v Q O Q ��_11 n O aJ E M o O v) LL o � o O pC _ L�-� v o o IA D o p o Q p Q in i a) Lff i f ` ca 40p O aJ m' 1/1 � rn ca O> m Q% Z� �, L rn l/) a) 40 vi .� yf W N O c6 M t a� a) o O OfA 0 N F7 O V �' Vn cn o +L o _ a) Q a, Q>O� a o N o o Cj ow VI V I U Q LL w H Q 0 0 cn w U.j 0 U D V) 2 A w Q 0 w 0 w Z 0 V) Q V) NJ 010 cx w m 0 z i a z i a Cie LU Oe U :E N m ,U N V N � Z QO r) oQ �o LLz 0 LU WO 0 V aW uCie aW z� a uz �w WW Q N w Z 0 c) V w LL w OFA O V) F- U w LL LL w z 0 a N w Q 0 Z 0 W< H �I Ti Q U O N lip Q V) F- LL w Z w m J Q Z W H 0 CL w J Q V O N 0 LL N J Q Z W 0 d a v O N Z O N 0 N W Cie N 0 NJ V z Nd V Nf LU J 0 0 a z z 0 4A LU w CL ui 0 0 z a LU G H z NJ ui w V N LL 0 z 0 H a V 0 N N a Z C0 G N a C%• CL V! Z 0 H a J W ce U.j Z LU F— Z Y V) Oe J J D m De W m c 01 N Z (D �Aklq 9 T V w H a z w ry a z w ry "�r"r1)t Z W J 0 2 N Q 2 3 cv 2 H 3 J W W d N Q N w 0 Q 2 9 eA U-i Ce cy- Ce 0 Ce Cl- TV AILAI V) U- LU z U-i ca 0 Ce Cl- LU Ce V) LU -7— a I ui w CL U) Z i Rawl o Mill ,mill 1- t m w 0 a a z V) W J V) LL V) LU 0 Z Z J Q LU V) > w LU Z F-Q Z� J �- Q U.j LU _ _ I J Lu a Z LU Q < AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY MAY 2, 2016 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE-2015-16 REGULAR SESSION House Resolution No. 28 Introduced by Assembly Members Dababneh and Calderon (Coauthors: Assembly Members Achadjian, Alejo, Travis Allen, Arambula, Atkins, Baker, Bigelow, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brough, Brown, Burke, Campos, Chang, Chau, Chavez, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dahle, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Gray, Hadley, Harper, Holden, Irwin, Jones, Jones -Sawyer, Kim, Lackey, Levine, Linder, Lopez, Low, Maienschein, Mathis, Mayes, McCarty, Medina, Melendez, Mullin, Nazarian, Obernolte, O'Donnell, Olsen, Quirk, Rendon, Rodriguez, Salas, Santiago, Steinorth, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Wagner, Waldron, Weber, Wilk, and Wood) July 15, 2015 House Resolution No. 28—Relative to humane education. 1 WHEREAS, Sections 233.5 (part of the Hate Violence 2 Prevention Act) and 60042 of the Education Code require 3 instruction in kindergarten and grades 1 to 12, inclusive, to promote 4 and encourage kindness to pets and humane treatment of animals; 5 and 6 WHEREAS, The States of Florida, Illinois, Maine, New Jersey, 7 Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wisconsin have adopted 8 humane education laws similar to California's; and 9 WHEREAS, Numerous academic studies have established a 10 correlation between animal cruelty during childhood and 11 interpersonal violence in adulthood; and 98 HR28 —2- 1 WHEREAS, Law enforcement agencies in major cities such as 2 Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles have acknowledged this 3 correlation and formed special enforcement units to combat animal 4 cruelty; and 5 WHEREAS, Humane education, such as that involving wildlife, 6 the animals' place in the overall environment, and the negative 7 impacts humans can have on them, including death and extinction, 8 can disrupt the cycle of animal and human abuse by decreasing a 9 child's potential to be abusive or neglectful toward animals and, 10 consequently, to promote prosocial behavior toward humans; and 11 WHEREAS, Humane education programs seek to prevent 12 violence by teaching empathy, compassion, and respect for all 13 living beings and help children develop into caring, responsible 14 citizens; and 15 WHEREAS, Reputable nonprofit organizations are working to 16 implement humane education programs through in -classroom 17 presentations, teacher training, and the provision of relevant 18 resources, and these organizations could assist California schools 19 in complying with the Education Code's humane education 20 provisions without burdening school budgets; and 21 WHEREAS, The experiences of these nonprofit organizations, 22 as well as other teachers or organizations that have conducted pilot 23 humane education efforts, provide evidence that student knowledge 24 and positive perceptions of animals is not as commonplace as it 25 should be; and 26 WHEREAS, Deficiencies in children's understanding of the 27 role animals have in the economy of nature and in people's lives 28 contribute to a proliferation in the number of wild and domestic 29 animals that are suffering from cruelty, abandonment, high animal 30 shelter euthanasia rates, and, in extreme circumstances, extinction; 31 and 32 WHEREAS, Schools and school districts are undertaking steps 33 to rectify these deficiencies by promoting humane education and 34 implementing it in classrooms; now, therefore, be it 35 Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, That 36 compliance with Education Code provisions should include 37 educating students on the principles of kindness and respect for 38 animals and observance of laws, regulations, and policies pertaining 39 to the humane treatment of animals, including wildlife and its 40 environment; and be it further 98 -3— HR28 1 Resolved, That actions such as implementing statewide or 2 districtwide "humane education days" and involving nonprofit 3 organizations in humane education activities with local faculty 4 and school administrators be considered for inclusion in compliance 5 efforts; and be it further 6 Resolved, That the Superintendent of Public Instruction be 7 encouraged to ensure the incorporation of humane education in 8 the core curriculum; and be it further 9 Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies 10 of this resolution to the State Senate, the Superintendent of Public 11 Instruction, the State Board of Education, the State Department of 12 Education, and the author for appropriate distribution. U 98 SCREENAGERS UNDER THE Parent handout to continue the conversation `In our technology revolution, the amount of exposure teens have to substances via shows, ads, social media, and so forth is unprecedented. Mental health issues and substance use are linked, and teens need opportunities to gain skills to handle challenging emotions and discuss issues related to substances. Screenagers Under The Influence provides exactly that. This film, along with the two other Screenagers films, offers a way for youth and adults to discuss issues and solutions. Moreover, we believe that establishing a routine of weekly short talks to discuss the positives and risks of our tech revolution, including substance -related topics, is vital. That's why we are in our 7th year of Tech Talk Tuesdays, the free Screenagers Blog that has helped thousands of families have productive conversations. We hope you'll join us." — Co -directors Delaney Ruston, MD, and Lisa Tabb VAPING It is good to refer to vapes as e-cigarettes because that is what they are. • 90% of smokers start before 18. • Flavors and high nicotine concentrations are banned in most countries, but not the US. • One vape pen has as much nicotine as a whole pack of cigarettes. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways in which industries like e-cigarettes, alcohol, cannabis, and others target youth. If you discover that your child is vaping or using other substances, limit how much you talk about your concerns. The goal is to maintain connection, and over -discussing our worries strains the relationship. ALCOHOL A common belief is that there are ways to teach young people to drink responsibly. People also believe that teens want to drink because it is forbidden. However, research argues against these beliefs. For example: • In France, where the drinking age is lower, 15-year-olds report binge drinking 3 times more than in the US. • Studies show that allowing teens to drink socially at home predicts increased drinking in college. Parenting Tips: Data shows that when parents have conversations with their kids about why they do not want them to drink, youth are more likely to make healthier choices. Also, when teens feel safe talking with parents about issues related to use (i.e., they believe they won't be shamed or harshly punished), this correlates with better overall outcomes for teens. Walking the line between not being overly permissive while remaining approachable takes ongoing work, and often seeking advice from others, such as counselors or other parents, is essential. CANNABIS • Higher THC concentrations are linked to an increased risk of frequent use and brain changes. • Dr. Yasmin Hurd found visible changes in the neurons of rats that were exposed three times a week to cannabis during their adolescence compared to rats that were not exposed. • MRls of human teen brains show concerning changes in cortical thickness in weed users vs. non -users. Parenting Tips: The goal is not to try and control our kids but to help kids understand the risks of illicit substances. Weed is illegal for anyone under 21. Talk about emerging science. FENTANYL A deadly epidemic involving this highly -dangerous synthetic drug is happening right now. Given the risk that any non -prescribed pill or powder can be laced with fentanyl, these must never be taken. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways Fentanyl is reaching youth, why one pill can kill, and the importance of Narcan. VISIT SCREENAGERSMOVIE.COM for more tips and resources and to sign up for the Screenagers Blog! *For references on the data cited above, please email info@screenagersmovie.com MORE RESOURCES FROM SCREENAGERS TECH TALK TUESDAYS �� ' NEER Access a library of over 4S0 blogs from Screenagers' TECH TALK TUESDAY9to filmmaker Dr. Delaney Ruston, containing a wealth of information and advice for families. Sign up to a receive this every Tuesday via email. www.screenagersmovie.com/blog THE SCREENAGERS PODCAST Join Dr. Ruston and guests every 2 weeks for the Screenagers Podcast, where they explore in more • • •AN detail the topics of our movies - Screen Time, Mental Health, Substances and much more. www.screenagersmovie.com/podcast BOOK - PARENTING IN THE SCREEN AGE 7 Written to help parent have calmer and more productive conversations with youth about tech kv and its impact upon their health, happiness and I' development. Read a free preview of the book at: ' �AGulde fnr www.screenagersmovie.com/book SCREENAGERS ON YOUTUBE We publish new videos every week, featuring the experts from our movies, giving new and valuable parenting advice that wasn't in our movies, along with other resources. youtube.com/@Screenagers_Movie () SCREENAGERSMOVIE q SCREENAGERSMOVIES www.screenagersmovie.com SCREENAGERS UNDER THE Parent handout to continue the conversation `In our technology revolution, the amount of exposure teens have to substances via shows, ads, social media, and so forth is unprecedented. Mental health issues and substance use are linked, and teens need opportunities to gain skills to handle challenging emotions and discuss issues related to substances. Screenagers Under The Influence provides exactly that. This film, along with the two other Screenagers films, offers a way for youth and adults to discuss issues and solutions. Moreover, we believe that establishing a routine of weekly short talks to discuss the positives and risks of our tech revolution, including substance -related topics, is vital. That's why we are in our 7th year of Tech Talk Tuesdays, the free Screenagers Blog that has helped thousands of families have productive conversations. We hope you'll join us." — Co -directors Delaney Ruston, MD, and Lisa Tabb VAPING It is good to refer to vapes as e-cigarettes because that is what they are. • 90% of smokers start before 18. • Flavors and high nicotine concentrations are banned in most countries, but not the US. • One vape pen has as much nicotine as a whole pack of cigarettes. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways in which industries like e-cigarettes, alcohol, cannabis, and others target youth. If you discover that your child is vaping or using other substances, limit how much you talk about your concerns. The goal is to maintain connection, and over -discussing our worries strains the relationship. ALCOHOL A common belief is that there are ways to teach young people to drink responsibly. People also believe that teens want to drink because it is forbidden. However, research argues against these beliefs. For example: • In France, where the drinking age is lower, 15-year-olds report binge drinking 3 times more than in the US. • Studies show that allowing teens to drink socially at home predicts increased drinking in college. Parenting Tips: Data shows that when parents have conversations with their kids about why they do not want them to drink, youth are more likely to make healthier choices. Also, when teens feel safe talking with parents about issues related to use (i.e., they believe they won't be shamed or harshly punished), this correlates with better overall outcomes for teens. Walking the line between not being overly permissive while remaining approachable takes ongoing work, and often seeking advice from others, such as counselors or other parents, is essential. CANNABIS • Higher THC concentrations are linked to an increased risk of frequent use and brain changes. • Dr. Yasmin Hurd found visible changes in the neurons of rats that were exposed three times a week to cannabis during their adolescence compared to rats that were not exposed. • MRls of human teen brains show concerning changes in cortical thickness in weed users vs. non -users. Parenting Tips: The goal is not to try and control our kids but to help kids understand the risks of illicit substances. Weed is illegal for anyone under 21. Talk about emerging science. FENTANYL A deadly epidemic involving this highly -dangerous synthetic drug is happening right now. Given the risk that any non -prescribed pill or powder can be laced with fentanyl, these must never be taken. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways Fentanyl is reaching youth, why one pill can kill, and the importance of Narcan. VISIT SCREENAGERSMOVIE.COM for more tips and resources and to sign up for the Screenagers Blog! *For references on the data cited above, please email info@screenagersmovie.com MORE RESOURCES FROM SCREENAGERS TECH TALK TUESDAYS �� ' NEER Access a library of over 4S0 blogs from Screenagers' TECH TALK TUESDAY9to filmmaker Dr. Delaney Ruston, containing a wealth of information and advice for families. Sign up to a receive this every Tuesday via email. www.screenagersmovie.com/blog THE SCREENAGERS PODCAST Join Dr. Ruston and guests every 2 weeks for the Screenagers Podcast, where they explore in more • • •AN detail the topics of our movies - Screen Time, Mental Health, Substances and much more. www.screenagersmovie.com/podcast BOOK - PARENTING IN THE SCREEN AGE 7 Written to help parent have calmer and more productive conversations with youth about tech kv and its impact upon their health, happiness and I' development. Read a free preview of the book at: ' �AGulde fnr www.screenagersmovie.com/book SCREENAGERS ON YOUTUBE We publish new videos every week, featuring the experts from our movies, giving new and valuable parenting advice that wasn't in our movies, along with other resources. youtube.com/@Screenagers_Movie () SCREENAGERSMOVIE q SCREENAGERSMOVIES www.screenagersmovie.com AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY MAY 2, 2016 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE-2015-16 REGULAR SESSION House Resolution No. 28 Introduced by Assembly Members Dababneh and Calderon (Coauthors: Assembly Members Achadjian, Alejo, Travis Allen, Arambula, Atkins, Baker, Bigelow, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brough, Brown, Burke, Campos, Chang, Chau, Chavez, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dahle, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Gray, Hadley, Harper, Holden, Irwin, Jones, Jones -Sawyer, Kim, Lackey, Levine, Linder, Lopez, Low, Maienschein, Mathis, Mayes, McCarty, Medina, Melendez, Mullin, Nazarian, Obernolte, O'Donnell, Olsen, Quirk, Rendon, Rodriguez, Salas, Santiago, Steinorth, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Wagner, Waldron, Weber, Wilk, and Wood) July 15, 2015 House Resolution No. 28—Relative to humane education. 1 WHEREAS, Sections 233.5 (part of the Hate Violence 2 Prevention Act) and 60042 of the Education Code require 3 instruction in kindergarten and grades 1 to 12, inclusive, to promote 4 and encourage kindness to pets and humane treatment of animals; 5 and 6 WHEREAS, The States of Florida, Illinois, Maine, New Jersey, 7 Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wisconsin have adopted 8 humane education laws similar to California's; and 9 WHEREAS, Numerous academic studies have established a 10 correlation between animal cruelty during childhood and 11 interpersonal violence in adulthood; and 98 HR28 —2- 1 WHEREAS, Law enforcement agencies in major cities such as 2 Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles have acknowledged this 3 correlation and formed special enforcement units to combat animal 4 cruelty; and 5 WHEREAS, Humane education, such as that involving wildlife, 6 the animals' place in the overall environment, and the negative 7 impacts humans can have on them, including death and extinction, 8 can disrupt the cycle of animal and human abuse by decreasing a 9 child's potential to be abusive or neglectful toward animals and, 10 consequently, to promote prosocial behavior toward humans; and 11 WHEREAS, Humane education programs seek to prevent 12 violence by teaching empathy, compassion, and respect for all 13 living beings and help children develop into caring, responsible 14 citizens; and 15 WHEREAS, Reputable nonprofit organizations are working to 16 implement humane education programs through in -classroom 17 presentations, teacher training, and the provision of relevant 18 resources, and these organizations could assist California schools 19 in complying with the Education Code's humane education 20 provisions without burdening school budgets; and 21 WHEREAS, The experiences of these nonprofit organizations, 22 as well as other teachers or organizations that have conducted pilot 23 humane education efforts, provide evidence that student knowledge 24 and positive perceptions of animals is not as commonplace as it 25 should be; and 26 WHEREAS, Deficiencies in children's understanding of the 27 role animals have in the economy of nature and in people's lives 28 contribute to a proliferation in the number of wild and domestic 29 animals that are suffering from cruelty, abandonment, high animal 30 shelter euthanasia rates, and, in extreme circumstances, extinction; 31 and 32 WHEREAS, Schools and school districts are undertaking steps 33 to rectify these deficiencies by promoting humane education and 34 implementing it in classrooms; now, therefore, be it 35 Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, That 36 compliance with Education Code provisions should include 37 educating students on the principles of kindness and respect for 38 animals and observance of laws, regulations, and policies pertaining 39 to the humane treatment of animals, including wildlife and its 40 environment; and be it further 98 -3— HR28 1 Resolved, That actions such as implementing statewide or 2 districtwide "humane education days" and involving nonprofit 3 organizations in humane education activities with local faculty 4 and school administrators be considered for inclusion in compliance 5 efforts; and be it further 6 Resolved, That the Superintendent of Public Instruction be 7 encouraged to ensure the incorporation of humane education in 8 the core curriculum; and be it further 9 Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies 10 of this resolution to the State Senate, the Superintendent of Public 11 Instruction, the State Board of Education, the State Department of 12 Education, and the author for appropriate distribution. U 98 V I U Q LL w H Q 0 0 cn w U.j 0 U D V) 2 A w Q 0 w 0 w Z 0 V) Q V) NJ 010 cx w m 0 z i a z i a Cie LU Oe U :E N m ,U N V N � Z QO r) oQ �o LLz 0 LU WO 0 V aW uCie aW z� a uz �w WW Q N w Z 0 c) V w LL w OFA O V) F- U w LL LL w z 0 a N w Q 0 Z 0 W< H �I Ti Q U O N lip Q V) F- LL w Z w m J Q Z W H 0 CL w J Q V O N 0 LL N J Q Z W 0 d a v O N Z O N 0 N W Cie N 0 NJ V z Nd V Nf LU J 0 0 a z z 0 4A LU w CL ui 0 0 z a LU G H z NJ ui w V N LL 0 z 0 H a V 0 N N a Z C0 G N a C%• CL V! Z 0 H a J W ce U.j Z LU F— Z Y V) Oe J J D m De W m c 01 N Z (D �Aklq 9 T V w H a z w ry a z w ry "�r"r1)t Z W J 0 2 N Q 2 3 cv 2 H 3 J W W d N Q N w 0 Q 2 9 eA U-i Ce cy- Ce 0 Ce Cl- TV AILAI V) U- LU z U-i ca 0 Ce Cl- LU Ce V) LU -7— a I ui w CL U) Z i Rawl o Mill ,mill 1- t m w 0 a a z V) W J V) LL V) LU 0 Z Z J Q LU V) > w LU Z F-Q Z� J �- Q U.j LU _ _ I J Lu a Z LU Q < 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. Ili LEGISLATIVE INFORMATION Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. (2019-2020) SHARE THIS: Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 73 CHAPTER 158 Relative to Blue Light Awareness Day. [ Filed with Secretary of State September 19, 2019. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SCR 73, Pan. Blue Light Awareness Day. This measure would designate October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California. Fiscal Committee: no WHEREAS, There are over 80 million electronic devices with digital screens in the State of California; and WHEREAS, Screen time viewing with electronic devices exceeds over nine hours per day; and WHEREAS, The increased usage of, and access to, digital devices by young children and adolescents is an acute area of concern, as ophthalmologists, optometrists, and medical researchers continue to learn more about the short-term effects of increasing and cumulative exposure to artificial blue light on the developing human eye and mental health at a young age, along with long-term potential cumulative effects on adult eye health and mental development; and WHEREAS, The scientific community and recent studies have identified growing concerns over potential long- term eye and health impacts for all age groups from digital screen usage and cumulative blue light exposure emitted from digital devices; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been reported to cause visual discomfort in 65 percent of Americans; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been associated with possible harmful effects on retinal cell physiology linked to the high-energy, short wavelength in the narrow range of 415-455 nanometers; and WHEREAS, Cumulative blue light exposure from digital devices has been shown to disrupt sleep cycles by suppressing the natural release of melatonin and has also been linked to premature aging of the retina, which could accelerate potential long-term vision problems such as age -related macular degeneration, decreased alertness, and memory and emotional regulation impacts; and WHEREAS, Screen time can take a toll on vision health and comfort, leading to symptoms of digital eye strain and dry, irritated eyes; and https:Hlegi nfo.legislatu re.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 1 /2 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. WHEREAS, Given the growing body of research around the breadth and scope of potential eye and systemic health impacts related to blue light exposure, the State of California encourages citizens, particularly children, to consider taking protective safety measures in reducing eye exposure to high-energy visible blue light; now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California; and be it further Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution. https:Hleginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 2/2 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ This copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. Distribution and use of this material are governed by our Subscriber Agreement and by copyright law. For non -personal use or to order multiple copies, please contact Dow Jones Reprints at 1-800-843-0008 or visit www.djreprints.com. https://www.wsi.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5 Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. Educators question whether the rapid shift toward more technology has benefited learning By Sara Randazzo Follow , Matt Barnum Follow and Julie Jargon Follow Jan. 22, 2025 9 00 pm ET Class time has become screen time in American schools. Kindergartners now watch math lessons on YouTube, counting aloud with the videos. Middle- schoolers complete writing drills on Chromebooks while sneaking in play of an online game. High- schoolers mark up Google Docs to finish group projects. The rapid tech transformation amounts to a grand experiment playing out in American schools. Accelerated by pandemic -era online learning, the move has happened with little debate, conflicting research and high stakes for the nation's children. Educators wonder whether the digitization of the classroom has really benefited learning —or if it's done kids a disservice. Some teachers say online tools help create more engaging lessons and provide personalized instruction. Others say the screen -heavy approach has distracted students and burned out teachers. "Covid really shifted things toward, `Oh, we can do this,"' said Stephanie Galvani, a middle -school English teacher in suburban Boston. "But we didn't ask: `Should we do this?"' https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 1 /10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students used their school -issued laptops in San Antonio. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The shift runs counter to the prevailing advice from doctors and psychologists to limit tech use. Some frustrated parents are trying to opt their kids out of school technology, with varying degrees of success. Even some students pine for more analog methods. "I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while," said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz, in San Antonio. "It gives you a headache and I really lose my focus." Students in grades one through 12 now spend an average of 98 minutes on school -issued devices during the school day —more than 20% of the average instructional time —according to data that educational software company Lightspeed Systems analyzed at the request of The Wall Street Journal. The time spent on devices peaks at two hours and 24 minutes daily in sixth grade, or nearly 35% of instructional time, Lightspeed's analysis of more than 2.8 million students in 344 school districts nationwide shows. Use of school devices declined among high-school students, down to 70 minutes a day for 12th-graders, with possible factors including a shift to personal devices and more flexible school schedules, according to Lightspeed. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 2/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Average amount of time per day students spend on school -provided devices During school Outside of school GRADE 1 hour Ira 3 0 6 27 7� 2. 8 &j&, 23 Note: Data from January -June 2024; includes 344 districts and 2.8 million students. Source: Lightspeed Systems Fifty percent of teachers said their students completed at least half of their classwork on a device, up from about 20% of teachers before the pandemic, according to a 2023 survey of nearly 1,000 educators conducted by Brian Jacob, an education researcher at the University of Michigan. Use of technology for homework, group work and assessments also dramatically increased. Research on the effectiveness of tech use in education is mixed and full of company -backed analyses. "I don't think there's one easy answer," Jacob said. "I just don't think we know yet." `Paper is better' On an August day in Abby Ramos Stanutz's San Antonio classroom, 25 eighth -graders filed into first -period English and began class as they often do, with several minutes of free writing. The students each grabbed a school -issued Chromebook and began to type. "I know your fingers are getting tired, but keep going," Ramos Stanutz urged, dimming the lights and playing pop music softly to help students focus. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 3/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students in San Antonio used laptops for a free -writing exercise. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Later in the class, the students turned back to Chromebooks to record influencer -style videos explaining why they liked a book they were reading. Some of Ramos Stanutz's students later explained that while they like the ease of turning in assignments online and using computers for technical skills like coding, the devices create distractions in class and can slow down lessons when the internet goes out or a video a teacher wants to play gets blocked by district software. "I feel like paper is better, anything other than technology," said 14-year-old Carlos Miranda. "I'm hands-on. You can't learn to dissect a frog with a computer." (Education technology companies have, actually, created virtual dissection apps.) Ramos Stanutz said there's no getting rid of technology at this point but she's learned to strike the right balance. She's had to find new strategies to keep students from playing online games or watching videos. "It's like the ocean: You can never turn your back on it," she said. Computer and internet use in schools grew rapidly in the 1990s, alongside technology's rise in everyday life. Schools saw an opportunity to close a digital divide between low-income and wealthier students. The adoption of school technology sped up when the pandemic forced students to learn online. Federal Covid aid helped schools buy students across the country their own laptops or tablets. A multibillion -dollar education -technology industry promised its products could revolutionize teaching and catch students up after the pandemic. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 4/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Abby Ramos Stanutz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Highline Public Schools in Washington state found itself unintentionally thrust into a pre-internet era this school year when a cyberattack shut down its system for more than a month. Sixth -grade math teacher Rachel Nielsen said she initially panicked at not being able to access the digital curriculum —the only way she'd taught since becoming a teacher in 2019. She soon came to embrace methods like using physical tiles and cubes to teach geometry. Students worked together on presentations using large poster boards. Nielsen found students explained their work better when they had to physically write rather than simply plugging answers into online programs. "We got really bogged down by all the possible things we could use that are digital," Nielsen said. "Now I'm realizing it isn't about more technology or another app." 'I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while,' said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ `Too good to be true' Research on the use of technology in education remains unsettled. For instance, a review of 24 studies published last year found that college students retain more information when they take notes by hand rather than on a computer. Some research has found students have better comprehension when reading on paper rather than on a screen. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 5/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Other research on specific technology products —including digital tutoring programs —has shown improvements in student learning. Richard Culatta, the head of an association that supports teachers' use of technology, said lessons using technology have to elevate what the teacher could otherwise do to be effective. "Does it spark curiosity? Or is it just presenting information?" Culatta said. "That distinction right there makes it clear pretty quickly whether the tech use is valuable." Some teachers say they find technology essential for assisting students with specific needs, like using instant -translation apps for recently arrived immigrants or software to make fonts more readable for students with dyslexia. Technology companies often tout internal analyses claiming their products have led to breakthrough gains in student learning. But such results are often overstated, and companies may choose not to release unfavorable findings. "It's really hard to move the needle on student achievement, so if you see something that's too good to be true, it probably is," said Betsy Wolf, a researcher who found in a 2020 paper that company - backed studies produced more positive findings than independent evaluations. IXL Learning, the company behind popular digital education platform IXL, touts that schools using the product score as much as 15 to 17 percentile points higher on state exams. Students in Ramos Stanutz's English class. PHOTO: KAY LEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The most rigorous published evaluation of the product —which is used by 15 million U.S. students was less impressive. A Johns Hopkins University research center report, commissioned by the company, found that IXL had no clear effect on state math scores during the spring of 2023 in a https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 6/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Michigan school district. On a different test, IXL boosted math scores by about five percentile points, the researchers found. In a separate, unpublished Johns Hopkins study —a summary of which was reviewed by the Journal —the effects of IXL were described as "directionally positive" but "not statistically significant." The company chose not to release the study, a spokesman said, because it had a relatively small sample size. Bo Bashkov, senior manager of research at IXL Learning, said the company's figures of 15 to 17 percentile points are "better -case scenario" benchmarks from its own state -by -state research. Removing barriers In lower -income districts, school leaders say giving students and their families access to personal devices has been a huge benefit. Computer access is now nearly universal in U.S. public schools, with 95% of schools reporting that they provided devices to students last school year, according to a federal survey. "It has removed barriers," said Pamela Maddox, the principal of Compton Early College High School, a high -performing school in a district serving majority Latino and Black students. Parents tell her they like that students can easily access their homework from anywhere. The school has doubled down on technology, moving its library into a smaller room to make way for a high-tech lab funded by Verizon, equipped with a podcasting room, robotics equipment, 3-D printer and esports stations. On a walk through campus in September, Maddox entered an Advanced Placement English class taught by Porsja Dyer. There, students sitting with Chromebooks typed out reflections on factors that have shaped their identity. Their responses were instantly shared with the entire class. "And yes, I turned the hearts on so you can like each other's work today," Dyer said. At one table, students looked up from their screens to say they liked using technology in class because they can find information and write responses more quickly and it makes life easier. Reducing technology Many parents are content with the growth of educational technology. In one survey from 2023, commissioned by the nonprofit EdChoice, about three in four parents said that computer use was having a positive effect on their child's learning. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 7/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Still, about 40% of parents said their children spent too much time on screens. In a separate EdChoice poll, 35% of teenagers said their school used too much technology. I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education; said Andrea Davis, a mother of five. PHOTO: KRISTINA BARKER FOR WSJ "For parents who want to reduce screen time, schools are undercutting them," said Jonathan Haid a social psychologist at New York University's Stern School of Business whose recent book, "The Anxious Generation," helped fuel smartphone bans in schools across the country. Mileva Repasky, a mother of three in Phoenixville, Pa., who co-founded the nonprofit Phone -Free Schools Movement, had her children track their school and home screen use for two weeks at the Journal's request. One Wednesday in October, her 17-year-old son, David, spent nearly 2 /z hours on his school -issued Chromebook doing work at school and an additional 70 minutes doing homework on his Chromebook. That was on top of the 42 minutes at lunch watching TikTok and Netflix on his phone that day and 80 minutes at home gaming or looking at Instagram. Total screen time: more than 5 /2 hours. He said he learns better when taking notes on paper and that he'd like it if classmates would talk to each other more during lunch. His mom said she had no idea David was spending so much time on his laptop for school. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 8/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Amount of time at school Mileva Repasky's children spent on school -provided devices Madelyn • 11 YEARS OLD • 5TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 5 min. SCHOOL DAY TUESDAY 1 hour 5 min. i9�ft�st�ts ,�� 00, Katie • 13 YEARS OLD • 7TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 30 min. TUESDAY 1 hour David • 17 YEARS OLD • 11TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 27 min. ut�11i'� TUESDAY Note: Data for Oct. 28-Nov.1, 2024 Source: Mileva Repasky 1 hour I' WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 40 min. 1 hour 5 min. 55 min. WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 1 hour 18 min. 1 hour 15 min. 1 hour 31 min. �Ql�9ii 1��1ti�ulr , h�1Pum� 9iJ1 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 2 hours 22 min. 2 hours 2 hours 30 min. SS IIl)l� l 444i}� Ity� ;(4sss� "The entire day is filled with technology," said David, a junior at a private high school. "We use our computers from first period to eighth period, and even at lunch there's no socializing because everyone is on their phones playing games." Repasky's nonprofit and other advocacy groups have helped usher in a wave of cellphone bans at the school -district and state level in recent years, though enforcement is often a challenge and phones are still pervasive on many campuses. Mom of five Andrea Davis wasn't happy with the prevalence of technology in her local public school district in Hood River, Ore. "I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education," she said. Davis, who runs a business that helps families reduce screen time, worked with the district to organize student and community meetings and presented a formal plan on how to reduce https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 9/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ technology use. This school year, the middle-schoolers aren't bringing school -issued iPads home with them, and the district is making sure every tech application is educationally sound. School leaders didn't take up other recommendations, like banning YouTube and eliminating iPads in early -grade classrooms. "There's this misconception that we've let the cat out of the bag," Davis said. "But no, this is an opportunity we have now." Write to Sara Randazzo at sara.randazzo@wsj.com, Matt Barnum at matt.barnum@wsj.com and Julie Jargon at Julie.Jargon@wsj.com Appeared in the January 24, 2025, print edition as 'Screens Are Taking Over In American Classrooms https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 10/10 �. ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH RESOLUTION ADDRESSING SOCIAL MEDIA USE, SCREEN TIME, AND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH WHEREAS, according to a recent survey one-third of all teens report being online and using social media platforms "almost constantly";' and WHEREAS, a 2023 U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory warned that while social media may offer benefits, there is growing evidence of risks to youth mental health including anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of sleep;2 and WHEREAS, studies have found correlations between time spent on social media and mental health including one study that found risk of anxiety and depression doubled in youth that spent more than three hours daily on social media;3 and WHEREAS, adolescence represents a critical time in the brain development and studies have reported social media may result in addictive behavior, decreased attention span, and lower test scores-4.5.6 and WHEREAS, growing reports suggest social media can expose youth to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and heavily edited comparisons that can lead to eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, and suicidal ideation,-6 and WHEREAS, evidence -based strategies to reduce the risks of social media include implementing device -free school policies, setting screen -time limits at home, avoiding screens before bedtime, and educating families about the psychological effects of social media,67,8 and WHEREAS, time spent on social media and screens decreases time for exercise, sleep, in -person time with friends, and other activities that are thought to improve mental health and healthy social development (for youth and adults).2,3,4,5,6 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED on this 26th day of March 2025, that we the Orange County Board of Health: 1. Recognize social media use among youth as a significant public health concern and mental health risk. 2. Recommend parents and caregivers establish screen -time limits for their children/teens, particularly restricting device use on school nights and before bedtime, to promote healthy sleep habits. 3. Urge parents to consider delaying getting their children smartphones and exploring pledges with other parents like the "Wait Until 8th" initiative.9 4. Encourage parents and young people to explore the resources listed below to further understand the impact of digital technology on youth development. 5. Support "Away for the Day" policies in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools that restrict personal device use during school hours to support focus and well-being. 6. Suggest Orange County school districts or the county explore joining ongoing class action lawsuits against social media companies, with the goals of funding additional mental health services for youth and/or requiring social media companies to improve their age verification and parental controls.10 7. Support the countywide adoption of "Screen -Free Week" during May 5-11, 2025, as observed by Chapel Hill- Carrboro City Schools and encourage parents and children of the county to participate.', 8. Support statewide legislation, such as Senate Bill 55, that would join NC with other states in requiring school districts to have policies around use of cellphones during the day and nationwide legislation that would require social media companies to have more effective age/parental consent verification. 12.13 9. Support educational efforts that inform families, schools, and policymakers about the risks of social media use and the importance of digital wellness. Alison Stuebe, MD, MSc 4QintaLna Stewart, MPA Chair, Orange County Board of Health Orange County Health Director 919 245 2405 > 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, NC 27278 > orangecountync.gov Page 1 of 2 ORANGE COUNT`' HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 1. Sidoti, Michelle Faverio and Olivia. "Teens, Social Media and Technology 2024." Pew Research Center (blog), December 12, 2024. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/12/12/teens-social-media-and- technology-2024/. 2. U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health (2023). https://www. hhs.gov/su rgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth-mental-health/social-media/index. html 3. Riehm KE, Feder KA, Tormohlen KN, Crum RM, Young AS, Green KM, Pacek LR, La Flair LN, Mojtabai R. "Associations Between Time Spent Using Social Media and Internalizing and Externalizing Problems Among US Youth." JAMA Psychiatry. 2019 Dec 1;76(12):1266-1273. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.2325. https:// pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6739732/ 4. Lissak, Gadi. "Adverse Physiological and Psychological Effects of Screen Time on Children and Adolescents: Literature Review and Case Study." Environmental Research 164 (July 2018): 149-57. https://doi.org/10.1016/m.envres.2018.01.015. 5. Twenge, Jean. iGen: Why Today's Super -Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy --and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood --and What That Means for the Rest of Us. (2017). 6. Haidt, Jonathan. The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness. (2024). 7. Muppalla, Sudheer Kumar, Sravya Vuppalapati, Apeksha Reddy Pulliahgaru, and Himabindu Sreenivasulu. "Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development: An Updated Review and Strategies for Management." Cureus 15, no. 6 (June 2023): e40608. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40608. 8. American Psychological Association, "Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence" (2023). https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use 9. Wait Until 8th. "Wait Until 8th." Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.waituntil8th.org."Wait Until 8th" Campaign, www.waituntil8th.org. 10. Scofield, Sydnee. "Wake County school board joins lawsuit against social media giants." ABC 11 News, February 20, 2024. Accessed March 20, 2025. https://abcl l .com/social-media-lawsuit-wake-county-schools- board-of-education/14450653/ 11. Screen -Free Week. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://screenfree.org/about/ 12. "NC Senate Bill 55, Student Use of Wireless Communication Devices." NC General Assembly. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncleg.gov/BilILookUp/2025/S55 13. "Social Media and Children 2024 Legislation." National Conference of State Legislatures.Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncsl.org/technology-and-communication/social-media-and-children-2024-legislation. Scan this QR code with your phone or go to https://drive.googIe.com/file/d/16BIFTyyRehshQKjldeMP19k5JZIzL05G/view?usp=sharing to access live resource links 919 245 2405 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, INC 27278 orangecountync.gov Page 2 of 2 GRANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Libbie Hough Communications Manager and Public Information Officer Office: 919-245-2562; Cell: 919-619-7116 (hough@orangecountync.gov Orange County Board of Health Champions Youth Mental Health with Resolution on Screen Time HILLSBOROUGH, NC (April 29, 2025) — In recognition of growing concerns over the effects of excessive screen time and social media use on youth mental health, the Orange County Board of Health unanimously approved a resolution aimed at promoting healthier screen habits among children and adolescents. Timed to coincide with Screen -Free Week (May 5-11, 2025), a national celebration that encourages children, families, schools, and communities to enjoy life beyond screens, the resolution highlights the urgent need for local action. Research cited in the resolution, including findings from the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association, underscores the association between excessive screen use and rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among youth. The Orange County Board of Health calls on families, schools, and community organizations to promote balanced technology use and encourages participation in Screen -Free Week activities. The resolution also urges policymakers to support education, advocacy, and community initiatives that help children develop healthier relationships with digital technology. To read the full resolution, visit the Board of Health's webpage. Dr. Amy Fowler, pediatrician, member of the Orange County Board of Health, and Board of County Commissioners emphasized the importance of the resolution: "Many kids I see are spending too much time on screens and it is taking time away from more productive activities like sleep, outdoor play, and engagement with friends and family. As we see screen time increase, we are also seeing its impacts on mental health." Orange County residents are invited to take part in Screen -Free Week events and activities. For more information about Screen -Free Week, visit screenfree.org. The Orange County Health Department exists to enhance quality of life, promote the health, and preserve the environment for everyone in Orange County. For information about the Health Department visit OrangeCountyNC.Gov/Health 300 West Tryon Street I Hillsborough, NC 1 919-245-2400 1 Ora ngeCountyNC.Gov/Health 0401 Gmail It's A Wrap - September 11 Board of Education Meeting 2 messages Laguna Beach Unified <info-Ibusd.org@shared1.ccsend.com> Reply -To: info@lbusd.org To: Craig A Durfey Fri, Sep 12, 2025 at 4:33 PM It's A Wrap News from Laguna Beach Unified School District, its teachers, students, staff and Board of Education. September 12, 2025 2025-26 OPENING OF SCHOOLS RE Jason Glass, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools September 11, 2025 LAGUNAGEACH Laguna Beach Unified School District reports on enrollment, student outcomes, and campus upgrades Laguna Beach Unified School District opened the 2025-26 school year with 2,333 students enrolled across its preschool, two elementary schools, middle school, and high school. Superintendent Jason Glass, Ed.D., and leadership staff presented the Opening of Schools Report, highlighting college and career outcomes for the Class of 2025, summer learning opportunities, and early learning readiness programs. The report also spotlighted new student -driven nutrition services, staff professional development, and the addition of 29 new hires, including support for transitional kindergarten expansion. Facility upgrades included stadium improvements at Laguna Beach High School, a new kindergarten restroom at El Morro Elementary, and modernized restrooms at Thurston Middle School. Safety enhancements such as a new visitor management system, upgraded video surveillance, and wildlife fencing were also completed before the start of the school year. View the report Board advances Laguna Beach High School pool modernization project At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education approved advertising for bids to modernize the Laguna Beach High School pool facilities. The $25.1 million project includes demolition, structural upgrades, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, landscaping, and a complete rebuild of the pool deck and support areas. Construction is scheduled from June 2026 to May 2027 to limit disruption, with athletic programs displaced for one school year. Funding for the project will be drawn from the district's cash accounts and capital improvement funds, which currently total over $56M. The district may also be eligible for up to $6.7 million in state Proposition 2 funding once project plans are approved and contracts awarded. Learn more Join the conversation: LBUSD Town Halls with the Board updates policy on student mobile device use The Board of Education conducted a second reading of BP 5131.8, Mobile Communication Devices, which updates district policy to align with state law and best practices. The revisions clarify grade -level expectations for device use and emphasize the role of families in supporting healthy technology habits at home. LBUSD supports balanced technology use with new resolution The Board of Education adopted a resolution (no. 25-20) to support efforts to optimize student screen time and reduce excessive use of digital devices. The resolution calls for districtwide guidelines, professional development, family partnerships, and annual progress reports to ensure technology use is purposeful, age -appropriate, and balanced with offline learning. Read the full re, Superintendent LBUSD is hosting a series of Town Halls, both in person at each school site and virtually, to provide families and community members an opportunity to share feedback directly with the superintendent. The conversations will focus on what the district should continue, what may need to change, and new opportunities to consider. All Town Halls are open to anyone, regardless of school affiliation. Families and community members are encouraged to attend the session most convenient for them. O Time: 6-7:30 p.m. Dates & Locations: • September 16, El Morro Elementary MPR • September 28, REGISTER for the Virtual Town Hall (Sunday) • September 30, Thurston Middle School Library Two LBHS seniors named semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit® Scholarship Program Board reviews proposed update to Bylaw 9223 on filling vacancies At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education conducted a first reading of Board Bylaw 9223, which outlines conditions under which a trustee's seat may be declared vacant. The proposed change would remove a locally added exception for absences due to illness of an immediate family member, to align the bylaw with state law (Government Code 1770(g); Education Code 5090). The Board directed the superintendent to refer the policy for legal review, including consideration of a local exception for board absences that would align with the statute on vacancies. Board adopts revisions to Bylaw 9310 on board policies At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education approved revisions to Board Bylaw 9310, which governs how district policies and bylaws are developed, reviewed, and adopted. The action followed an Aug. 14 first reading, when trustees reviewed drafts and voted unanimously to refer the proposed changes to legal counsel for review. Since then, the superintendent incorporated counsel's edits, invited trustee feedback, and considered community input before presenting a single annotated draft for adoption. The updates Two Laguna Beach High School seniors, Estella Newton and Zoe Tran, have been named semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®). They now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for 6,930 National Merit Scholarships, collectively worth nearly $26 million, which will be awarded in the spring of 2026. Read more Board forms ad hoc committee to expand arts engagement At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education approved the formation of a new Ad Hoc Board Committee for the Arts to support community engagement in arts education. The 15-member committee will be co-chaired by Board President Dee Perry and Board Member Sheri Morgan, and will include additional board appointees, community members selected through an application process, and individuals recruited to ensure broad representation and equity. Learn more �Oo)-DTu- Tin Tins clarify that policies must advance equity and ensure nondiscriminatory access, and streamline procedures for policy suspension to maintain alignment with state law and governance best practices. Finally, the revisions require a second reading of all bylaw changes before adoption to allow time for deliberation and public input. Watch the Board Meeting Laguna Beach Unified School District The next regularly scheduled board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. Visit Ibusd.org/board for more information. vvaten Mere Laguna Beach Unified 1 550 Blumont St I Laguna Beach, CA 92651 US Unsubscribe I Update Profile I Constant Contact Data Notice Constant �' Contact Try email marketing for free today! Craig A DurfeyE To: Craig A Durfey [Quoted text hidden] Sat, Sep 13, 2025 at 9:12 AM Agenda Item Details Meeting Sep 11, 2025 - REGULAR MEETING - BUSINESS MEETING - REVISED SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 9:55 A.M. AND 3:00 P.M. Category 11. ACTION ITEMS - TECHNOLOGY Subject A. Approval of Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time Type Action Fiscal Impact No Recommended Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Action Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Public Comment via electronic submission may be submitted no later than Thursday, September 11, 2025, by 12:00 p.m. via the following link: Public Comment Form September 11, 2025 Background Staff will present the Board with Resolution No. 25-20, which supports efforts to optimize computer screen time and reduce excessive computer screen time. Laguna Beach Unified School District has been studying student technology use closely and has identified trends showing increases in daily screen exposure. While digital tools play an important role in instruction and help meet state standards, staff have also raised concerns about the potential effects of excessive screen use on student health, attention, and engagement. This resolution reinforces the district's commitment to ensuring technology use is both purposeful and developmentally appropriate. The resolution outlines the district's intent to review instructional practices, create districtwide guidelines for age - appropriate use, and provide professional development for staff to balance technology integration with hands-on and face-to-face learning. It also emphasizes partnering with families to support healthy use of devices at home and monitoring data to guide decisions. By adopting this resolution, the Board affirms its commitment to supporting student well-being, fostering responsible digital citizenship, and maintaining a balance between the benefits of technology and the importance of offline learning experiences Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time - Google Docs.pdf (73 KB) Motion & Voting Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Motion by Joan Malczewski, second by Sheri Morgan. Final Resolution: Motion Carried Yes: Jim Kelly, Joan Malczewski, Dee Perry, Sheri Morgan, Howard Hills 3/7/202611:20:36 AM Date: From: To Subject: Attachment: Social Media Use Screen Time and Mental Health Approved 2025.03.26 For Sharing (1).pdf;BOH Resolution Press Release —Screen Timem April 2025 (2).docx;Lagwra Beach Unified School District, screen time.pdf;LGUBSD SCREEN TIME Approval of Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time.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 Craig A Durfey Date: Sat, Mar 7, 2026 at 10:58 AM Subject: Fwd: 1. Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time To: Craig A Durfey ---------- Forwarded messa--------- From Craig A Durfey Date: Sat, Mar 7, 2026 at 10:35 AM Subject: Fwd: 1. Washin on Post Children Ha To: Craig A Durfey < ---------- Forwarded nessage--------- From Craig A Durfey Date: Thu, Mar 5, 2026 at 8:24 PM Subject: Fwd: 1. Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time To: Craig A Durfey Haldor Lamm ---------- Forwarded rnessa e--------- From Date: Thu, Mar 5, 2026 at 8:19 PM 03-05-2026 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsdiwww.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org Haldor Larum I Sergeant Irvine Police Department I Mental Health Unit I DRE Coordinator 949-724-7400 11 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606 hlarum0cityofirvine.org I cityofirvine.org To whom it may concern Requesting support for a summit at Valley High School 1801 South Greenville St. Santa Ana, CA 92704-4005, awareness education K-12 suicide prevention such as CA State introduce a bill Al- 2003 Pupil health: suicide prevention.(2025-2026) Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great opportunity for Home - Valley High School Existing law requires the State Department of Education to identify an evidence -based online training program that a county office of education, school district, state special school, or charter school that serves pupils in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, can use to train school staff and pupils as part of their policy on pupil suicide prevention. Existing law requires the department, subject to an appropriation for these purposes, to provide a grant to a county office of education to acquire a training program identified by the department and disseminate that training program at no cost to specified educational entities, as specified. This bill would revise and recast these provisions by (1) deleting the requirement to provide the above -described grant, (2) deleting the requirement of the department to identify the above - described evidence -based online training program, (3) instead requiring the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission to develop an online training program to train school staff, parents, and pupils of county offices of education, school districts, state special schools, and charter schools that serve pupils in kindergarten or in any of grades 1 to 12, inclusive, on pupil suicide prevention, as specified. The bill would require those educational entities that elect to conduct suicide risk screenings to report data on these screenings to the department, as provided, and would require the department to compile and post statewide aggregate data on these screenings on its internet website, as provided. https://Ieginfo.legislature.ca.govMacesibiliNavClient.xhtml?bill id=202520260AB2003 The opportunity to collectively work as County effort than having multiple groups attempt to research to gather information the work has been done, below are movies, presentation with Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad as a speaker about hope squad. Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Seeking support of Santa Ana School District to utilize the Valley high school new medial academy creating opportunities to develop material to promote awareness campaign with social media etc. https://valley.sausd.us/ Seek Orange County Behavior Health funding and CA State prop 63 funding under CA State 638 year was 2021-2022 Hope Squad etc. Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time The Washington Post's report on the relationship between screen time and happiness among children and adolescents highlights that less screen time is associated with higher happiness levels. The study, conducted by the University of Michigan, found that adolescents who spent less than 20 hours a week on screens were happier than those who used screens for 20 or more hours a week. The findings suggest that the more hours day teens spend in front of screens, the less satisfied they are, and that the correlation between happiness and screen activities is uniformly negative. The report also indicates that the happiest teens are those who get a small amount of exposure to screen time, between one and five hours a week. Washington post children happiest less screen time - Search Children are generally happier and have better mental well-being with less than one hour of daily screen time, as excessive use (over 4-7 hours) is strongly linked to anxiety and depression. Prioritizing active, after -school, or face-to-face social activities instead of digital media significantly increases emotional well-being hftps://www.google.com/search? q=childem+happist+less+screen+time&riz=1 CI ONGR enUS1178US1178&oq=childem+happist+les s+screen+time&gs Icrp=EgZiaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRifBTIHCA1QIRifBTIHCAMQIRifBTIHCA QQIRifBTI HCAUQIRifBTI HCAYQI RifBT1 HCAcQI RifBTI HCAgQIRifBTIHCAkQI RifBd I BCDU3MzBgMGoxgA1 AsAIA&sou rceid=chrome &ie= UT F-8 Depression Screen Time and Mental Health in Kids High levels of screen time can be problematic for kids' mental health. https://www.psychologytoday.com/usiblogrinner-source/202411 /screen -time -and -mental -health -in - kids Teens who spend less time in front of screens are happier — up to AB 2003, as introduced, Berman. Pupil health: suicide prevention. Existing law requires the State Department of Education to identify an evidence -based online training program that a county office of education, school district, state special school, or charter school that serves pupils in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, can use to train school staff and pupils as part of their policy on pupil suicide prevention. Existing law requires the department, subject to an appropriation for these purposes, to provide a grant to a county office of education to acquire a training program identified by the department and disseminate that training program at no cost to specified educational entities, as specified. Bill Text - AB-2003 Pupil health: suicide prevention. Show the Screenagers movies in your school or community The impact of this digital age has led to rapid increases in levels of mental health challenges among youth. Through our movies, resources and initiatives, we aim to play our part in restoring the balance. Screenagers Movie I Screen In Your Community The Screenagers Podcast Screenagers Movie I Host a Screening Screenagers Movie I Resources Parents Handout SUI draft Aril 19 Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary A new Bloomberg documentary, "Can't Look Away;' investigates the dark side of social media for teens and the growing fight to hold tech companies accountable. Bloomberg investigative reporter Olivia Carville, who is an executive producer of the film, talks about her reporting in the documentary. Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain Why Book Screen Strong? We do not compromise the truth or bend to culture. We provide the gold standard for parents & schools. When you choose Screen Strong, you're embarking on a journey to bring back harmony to your family in today's digital world. We offer practical solutions and evidence -backed insights that empower listeners to tackle screen time challenges with confidence. On our podcast and in media interviews, Screen Strong isn't just about talk; we're about making a genuine impact. Our goal is clear. to help families break free from screen addiction and build stronger, healthier connections. Book Workshop) Screen Strong I Screen Strong Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Hoag Speaker Series Event: Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Bing Videos Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Screen time 160 Minutes Archive Screen time 160 Minutes Archive The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 Free The Anxious Generation Free The Anxious Generation Can't Look Away: The Case Against Social Media Can't Look Away: The Case Against Social Media Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families Parenting Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families Parenting IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation I IUSD.org HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Explore the impact technology has on adolescent behavior and brain development during this educational discussion hosted by Hoag Hospital and Capistrano Unified. Read the FULL STORY on CUSD Insider. http://cusdinsider.org/cusd-and-hoag-... SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/CUSDYouTube HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great opportunity for Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great opportunity for Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Australia. Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Austr Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts I KCUR - Kansas City news and NPR Home - Valley High School I'm available to assist for free by phone if you have any question just call me at Thank You Craig Durfey Date: 3/20/202611:06:00 AM To: Subject: Attachment: Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ.pdf;SCR-73 Blue LightAwareness Day. (1).pdf;Hope Squad One-Pager.pdf;Grant Support Document 2025 (1).pdf;Grant Support Document 2025.pdf;Hope Squad Pricing - 2025-2026 School Year.pdf; hoag_and_irvine_unified_speaker_series_1_gaming_social_media_and_mental_wellness_presentation (5).pdf;House Resolution No. 28-Relative to humane education.pdf;66d0782166347d6ddce660f8_SUI Screening Handout.pdf; (P. R. D. D. C. ) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS.COM FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING i nAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialernotionalpaws.org Haldor Larum I Sergeant Irvine Police Department I Mental Health Unit I DIRE Coordinator 949-724-7400 1 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606 hlarum@cityofirvine.org I cityofirvine.org Washington Post Children Happiest Less Screen Time The Washington Post's report on the relationship between screen time and happiness among children and adolescents highlights that less screen time is associated with higher happiness levels. The study, conducted by the University of Michigan, found that adolescents who spent less than 20 hours a week on screens were happier than those who used screens for 20 or more hours a week. The findings suggest that the more hours a day teens spend in front of screens, the less satisfied they are, and that the correlation between happiness and screen activities is uniformly negative. The report also indicates that the happiest teens are those who get a small amount of exposure to screen time, between one and five hours a week. washingtion post childern happist less screen time - Search Children are generally happier and have better mental well-being with less than one hour of daily screen time , as excessive use (over 4 07 hours) is strongly linked to anxiety and depression. Prioritizing active, after -school, or face-to-face social activities instead of digital media significantly increases emotional well-being hit ps:iiwww.googie.comisearclh"?q=childern+happist+less+screen +time&riz=1 C1 ONGR_enUS1178US11788.oq=childern+happist+less+screen +time&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTI HCAEQIRifBTIHCA1QIRifBTIHCAMQI RifBT IHCAQQIRifBTIHCAUQIRifBTIHCAYQIRifBTIHCAcQIRifBTIHCAgQIRifBTIHCAkQIRifBdIBCDU 3MzBgMGoxgAlAsAlABsourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8 Depression Screen Time and Mental Health in Kids High levels of screen time can be problematic for kids' mental health. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inner-source/202411 /screen -time -and - mental -health -in -kids Teens who spend less time in front of screens are happier A up to AB 2003, as introduced, Berman. Pupil health: suicide prevention. Existing law requires the State Department of Education to identify an evidence -based online training program that a county office of education, school district, state special school, or charter school that serves pupils in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, can use to train school staff and pupils as part of their policy on pupil suicide prevention. Existing law requires the department, subject to an appropriation for these purposes, to provide a grant to a county office of education to acquire a training program identified by the department and disseminate that training program at no cost to specified educational entities, as specified. Bill Text - AB-2003 Pu health: suicide prevention. Show the Screenagers movies in your school or community The impact of this digital age has led to rapid increases in levels of mental health challenges among youth. Through our movies, resources and initiatives, we aim to play our part in restoring the balance. Screenagers Movie I Screen In Your Community The Screenagers Podcast Screenagers Movie Host a Screening Screenagers Movie Resources Parents Handout SUI draft april 19 Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary A new Bloomberg documentary, "Can't Look Away," investigates the dark side of social media for teens and the growing fight to hold tech companies accountable. Bloomberg investigative reporter Olivia Carville, who is an executive producer of the film, talks about her reporting in the documentary. Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain The drug -like effect of screen time on the teenage brain Why Book ScreenStrong ? We do not compromise the truth or bend to culture. We provide the gold standard for parents & schools. When you choose ScreenStrong , you Are embarking on a journey to bring back harmony to your family in today Os digital world. We offer practical solutions and evidence -backed insights that empower listeners to tackle screen time challenges with confidence. On our podcast and in media interviews, ScreenStrong isn Ot just about talk; we Ore about making a genuine impact. Our goal is clear: to help families break free from screen addiction and build stronger, healthier connections. Book Workshop I ScreenStrong I ScreenStrong Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Capistrano Valley High School hosts panel for parents concerned a Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Gamina. Social Media and Mental Wellness Hoag Speaker Series Event: Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Bing Videos Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Anxious Nation is a feature documentary focusing on the epidemic Screen time 160 Minutes Archive Screen time 1 60 Minutes Archive The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 The devastating effects of video game addiction on children 160 Free The Anxious Generation Free The Anxious Generation Can't Look Away: The Case Against Social Media Can't Look Awav: The Case Aqainst Social Media Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families Parenting Collin Kartchner TIPS Talk at the 2019 Uplift Families IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation IUSD and Hoag to Host Gaming, Social Media and Mental Wellness Presentation IUSO.org HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Explore the impact technology has on adolescent behavior and brain development during this educational discussion hosted by Hoag Hospital and Capistrano Unified. Read the FULL STORY on CUSD Insider: http://cusdinsider.org/cusd-and-hoag-... SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/CUSDYouTube HOAG HOSPITAL MENTAL ILLNESS SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS Dangers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Danqers of social media for teens examined in new documentary Rose, a senior at Northwood High mental health with Hope Squad Rose. a senior at Northwood Hiah mental health with Hone Sauad Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great oportunity for Valley High celebrates renovated arts center/great oportunity for Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Australia. Internet addiction disorder affecting toddlers 160 Minutes Austr Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts Kansas bill would limit students' screen time in class and create extra costs for school districts I KCUR - Kansas City news and NPR Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time WHEREAS, the Board of Education of Laguna Beach Unified School District is committed to supporting the health, well-being, and academic success of all students; and WHEREAS, research indicates that excessive computer screen time may negatively impact student health, including sleep, vision, attention, and social -emotional well-being, while balanced and purposeful technology use can enhance learning and engagement; and WHEREAS, the district recognizes that technology is an essential tool for 21st-century learning, but that such use must be developmentally appropriate, intentional, and aligned with instructional best practices; and WHEREAS, teachers, staff, parents, and students have expressed interest in strategies that provide a healthy balance between digital learning and non -screen activities such as reading, writing, discussion, collaboration, hands-on projects, physical movement, and creative expression; and WHEREAS, the district is committed to fostering an environment that develops responsible digital citizens and models healthy technology habits; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education of Laguna Beach Unified School District supports district efforts to: 1. Review and monitor classroom practices and curricular expectations to ensure that student screen time is optimized for learning and minimized where unnecessary. 2. Develop districtwide guidelines for age -appropriate, instructional use of technology that balance screen-based and non -screen-based learning activities. 3. Provide professional development for teachers and staff on effective strategies to balance technology integration with non -digital instructional practices. 4. Collect and analyze data on student screen time across grade levels and subjects to guide decision -making. 5. Collaborate with families to promote healthy screen use at home and at school. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board directs the Superintendent to report annually on district progress toward optimizing student screen time, including successes, challenges, and next steps. PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Governing Board on September 11, 2025, by the following vote: AYES: Members: NOES: Members: ABSENT: Members: STATE OF CALIFORNIA ss COUNTY OF ORANGE Dee Perry LBUSD Board President Agenda Item Details Meeting Sep 11, 2025 - REGULAR MEETING - BUSINESS MEETING - REVISED SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 9:55 A.M. AND 3:00 P.M. Category 11. ACTION ITEMS - TECHNOLOGY Subject A. Approval of Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time Type Action Fiscal Impact No Recommended Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Action Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Public Comment via electronic submission may be submitted no later than Thursday, September 11, 2025, by 12:00 p.m. via the following link: Public Comment Form September 11, 2025 Background Staff will present the Board with Resolution No. 25-20, which supports efforts to optimize computer screen time and reduce excessive computer screen time. Laguna Beach Unified School District has been studying student technology use closely and has identified trends showing increases in daily screen exposure. While digital tools play an important role in instruction and help meet state standards, staff have also raised concerns about the potential effects of excessive screen use on student health, attention, and engagement. This resolution reinforces the district's commitment to ensuring technology use is both purposeful and developmentally appropriate. The resolution outlines the district's intent to review instructional practices, create districtwide guidelines for age - appropriate use, and provide professional development for staff to balance technology integration with hands-on and face-to-face learning. It also emphasizes partnering with families to support healthy use of devices at home and monitoring data to guide decisions. By adopting this resolution, the Board affirms its commitment to supporting student well-being, fostering responsible digital citizenship, and maintaining a balance between the benefits of technology and the importance of offline learning experiences Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time - Google Docs.pdf (73 KB) Motion & Voting Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Motion by Joan Malczewski, second by Sheri Morgan. Final Resolution: Motion Carried Yes: Jim Kelly, Joan Malczewski, Dee Perry, Sheri Morgan, Howard Hills �. ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH RESOLUTION ADDRESSING SOCIAL MEDIA USE, SCREEN TIME, AND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH WHEREAS, according to a recent survey one-third of all teens report being online and using social media platforms "almost constantly";' and WHEREAS, a 2023 U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory warned that while social media may offer benefits, there is growing evidence of risks to youth mental health including anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of sleep;2 and WHEREAS, studies have found correlations between time spent on social media and mental health including one study that found risk of anxiety and depression doubled in youth that spent more than three hours daily on social media;3 and WHEREAS, adolescence represents a critical time in the brain development and studies have reported social media may result in addictive behavior, decreased attention span, and lower test scores-4.5.6 and WHEREAS, growing reports suggest social media can expose youth to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and heavily edited comparisons that can lead to eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, and suicidal ideation,-6 and WHEREAS, evidence -based strategies to reduce the risks of social media include implementing device -free school policies, setting screen -time limits at home, avoiding screens before bedtime, and educating families about the psychological effects of social media,67,8 and WHEREAS, time spent on social media and screens decreases time for exercise, sleep, in -person time with friends, and other activities that are thought to improve mental health and healthy social development (for youth and adults).2,3,4,5,6 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED on this 26th day of March 2025, that we the Orange County Board of Health: 1. Recognize social media use among youth as a significant public health concern and mental health risk. 2. Recommend parents and caregivers establish screen -time limits for their children/teens, particularly restricting device use on school nights and before bedtime, to promote healthy sleep habits. 3. Urge parents to consider delaying getting their children smartphones and exploring pledges with other parents like the "Wait Until 8th" initiative.9 4. Encourage parents and young people to explore the resources listed below to further understand the impact of digital technology on youth development. 5. Support "Away for the Day" policies in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools that restrict personal device use during school hours to support focus and well-being. 6. Suggest Orange County school districts or the county explore joining ongoing class action lawsuits against social media companies, with the goals of funding additional mental health services for youth and/or requiring social media companies to improve their age verification and parental controls.10 7. Support the countywide adoption of "Screen -Free Week" during May 5-11, 2025, as observed by Chapel Hill- Carrboro City Schools and encourage parents and children of the county to participate.', 8. Support statewide legislation, such as Senate Bill 55, that would join NC with other states in requiring school districts to have policies around use of cellphones during the day and nationwide legislation that would require social media companies to have more effective age/parental consent verification. 12.13 9. Support educational efforts that inform families, schools, and policymakers about the risks of social media use and the importance of digital wellness. Alison Stuebe, MD, MSc 4QintaLna Stewart, MPA Chair, Orange County Board of Health Orange County Health Director 919 245 2405 > 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, NC 27278 > orangecountync.gov Page 1 of 2 ORANGE COUNT`' HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 1. Sidoti, Michelle Faverio and Olivia. "Teens, Social Media and Technology 2024." Pew Research Center (blog), December 12, 2024. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/12/12/teens-social-media-and- technology-2024/. 2. U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health (2023). https://www. hhs.gov/su rgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth-mental-health/social-media/index. html 3. Riehm KE, Feder KA, Tormohlen KN, Crum RM, Young AS, Green KM, Pacek LR, La Flair LN, Mojtabai R. "Associations Between Time Spent Using Social Media and Internalizing and Externalizing Problems Among US Youth." JAMA Psychiatry. 2019 Dec 1;76(12):1266-1273. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.2325. https:// pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6739732/ 4. Lissak, Gadi. "Adverse Physiological and Psychological Effects of Screen Time on Children and Adolescents: Literature Review and Case Study." Environmental Research 164 (July 2018): 149-57. https://doi.org/10.1016/m.envres.2018.01.015. 5. Twenge, Jean. iGen: Why Today's Super -Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy --and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood --and What That Means for the Rest of Us. (2017). 6. Haidt, Jonathan. The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness. (2024). 7. Muppalla, Sudheer Kumar, Sravya Vuppalapati, Apeksha Reddy Pulliahgaru, and Himabindu Sreenivasulu. "Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development: An Updated Review and Strategies for Management." Cureus 15, no. 6 (June 2023): e40608. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40608. 8. American Psychological Association, "Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence" (2023). https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use 9. Wait Until 8th. "Wait Until 8th." Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.waituntil8th.org."Wait Until 8th" Campaign, www.waituntil8th.org. 10. Scofield, Sydnee. "Wake County school board joins lawsuit against social media giants." ABC 11 News, February 20, 2024. Accessed March 20, 2025. https://abcl l .com/social-media-lawsuit-wake-county-schools- board-of-education/14450653/ 11. Screen -Free Week. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://screenfree.org/about/ 12. "NC Senate Bill 55, Student Use of Wireless Communication Devices." NC General Assembly. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncleg.gov/BilILookUp/2025/S55 13. "Social Media and Children 2024 Legislation." National Conference of State Legislatures.Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncsl.org/technology-and-communication/social-media-and-children-2024-legislation. Scan this QR code with your phone or go to https://drive.googIe.com/file/d/16BIFTyyRehshQKjldeMP19k5JZIzL05G/view?usp=sharing to access live resource links 919 245 2405 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, INC 27278 orangecountync.gov Page 2 of 2 GRANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Libbie Hough Communications Manager and Public Information Officer Office: 919-245-2562; Cell: (hough@orangecountync.gov Orange County Board of Health Champions Youth Mental Health with Resolution on Screen Time HILLSBOROUGH, NC (April 29, 2025) — In recognition of growing concerns over the effects of excessive screen time and social media use on youth mental health, the Orange County Board of Health unanimously approved a resolution aimed at promoting healthier screen habits among children and adolescents. Timed to coincide with Screen -Free Week (May 5-11, 2025), a national celebration that encourages children, families, schools, and communities to enjoy life beyond screens, the resolution highlights the urgent need for local action. Research cited in the resolution, including findings from the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association, underscores the association between excessive screen use and rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among youth. The Orange County Board of Health calls on families, schools, and community organizations to promote balanced technology use and encourages participation in Screen -Free Week activities. The resolution also urges policymakers to support education, advocacy, and community initiatives that help children develop healthier relationships with digital technology. To read the full resolution, visit the Board of Health's webpage. Dr. Amy Fowler, pediatrician, member of the Orange County Board of Health, and Board of County Commissioners emphasized the importance of the resolution: "Many kids I see are spending too much time on screens and it is taking time away from more productive activities like sleep, outdoor play, and engagement with friends and family. As we see screen time increase, we are also seeing its impacts on mental health." Orange County residents are invited to take part in Screen -Free Week events and activities. For more information about Screen -Free Week, visit screenfree.org. The Orange County Health Department exists to enhance quality of life, promote the health, and preserve the environment for everyone in Orange County. For information about the Health Department visit OrangeCountyNC.Gov/Health 300 West Tryon Street I Hillsborough, NC 1 919-245-2400 1 Ora ngeCountyNC.Gov/Health W H Up c 0 F- ,C 0 N W z J W O c 0 E f #+ C O t Q of in n M L C 0 0 4w rrrw 0 CL rah LECISLATT� E INFORM.,MON Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites AB-638 Mental Health Services Act: early intervention and prevention programs. (2021- 2022) SHARE THIS: in X Assembly Bill No. 638 CHAPTER 584 Date Published: 10/07/2021 02:00 PM An act to amend Section 5840 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to mental health, and making an appropriation therefor. Approved by Governor October 06, 2021. Filed with Secretary of State October 06, 2021. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST AB 638, Quirk -Silva. Mental Health Services Act: early intervention and prevention programs. Existing law, the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA), an initiative measure enacted by the voters as Proposition 63 at the November 2, 2004, statewide general election, establishes the continuously appropriated Mental Health Services Fund to fund various county mental health programs and requires counties to spend those funds on mental health services, as specified. The MHSA requires counties to establish a program designed to prevent mental illnesses from becoming severe and disabling and authorizes counties to use funds designated for prevention and early intervention to broaden the provision of those community -based mental health services by adding prevention and early intervention services or activities. Existing law authorizes the MHSA to be amended by a 2/3 vote of the Legislature if the amendments are consistent with, and further the purposes of, the MHSA. This bill would amend the MHSA by including in the prevention and early intervention services authorized to be provided, prevention and early intervention strategies that address mental health needs, substance misuse or substance use disorders, or needs relating to cooccurring mental health and substance use services. By authorizing a new use for continuously appropriated funds, this bill would make an appropriation. The bill would state the finding and declaration of the Legislature that this change is consistent with, and furthers the intent of, the MHSA. Vote: 2/3 Appropriation: yes Fiscal Committee: yes Local Program: no THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Section 5840 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: 5840. (a) The State Department of Health Care Services, in coordination with counties, shall establish a program designed to prevent mental illnesses from becoming severe and disabling. The program shall emphasize improving timely access to services for underserved populations. (b) The program shall include the following components: (1) Outreach to families, employers, primary care health care providers, and others to recognize the early signs of potentially severe and disabling mental illnesses. (2) Access and linkage to medically necessary care provided by county mental health programs for children with severe mental illness, as defined in Section 5600.3, and for adults and seniors with severe mental illness, as defined in Section 5600.3, as early in the onset of these conditions as practicable. (3) Reduction in stigma associated with either being diagnosed with a mental illness or seeking mental health services. (4) Reduction in discrimination against people with mental illness. (c) The program shall include mental health services similar to those provided under other programs that are effective in preventing mental illnesses from becoming severe, and shall also include components similar to programs that have been successful in reducing the duration of untreated severe mental illnesses and assisting people in quickly regaining productive lives. (d) The program shall emphasize strategies to reduce the following negative outcomes that may result from untreated mental illness: (1) Suicide. (2) Incarcerations. (3) School failure or dropout. (4) Unemployment. (5) Prolonged suffering. (6) Homelessness. (7) Removal of children from their homes. (e) Prevention and early intervention funds may be used to broaden the provision of community -based mental health services by adding prevention and early intervention services or activities to these services, including prevention and early intervention strategies that address mental health needs, substance misuse or substance use disorders, or needs relating to cooccurring mental health and substance use services. (f) In consultation with mental health stakeholders, and consistent with regulations from the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, pursuant to Section 5846, the department shall revise the program elements in Section 5840 applicable to all county mental health programs in future years to reflect what is learned about the most effective prevention and intervention programs for children, adults, and seniors. SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that this act is consistent with, and furthers the intent of, the Mental Health Services Act within the meaning of Section 18 of that act. 7/7/25, 11:50 AM Bill Text - SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. Ili i LEGISLATIVF INFORN.I.,%TION Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. (2021-2022) SHARE THIS: in X Date Published: 10/11/2021 02:00 PM Senate Bill No. 224 CHAPTER 675 An act to add Article 6 (commencing with Section 51925) to Chapter 5.5 of Part 28 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code, relating to pupil instruction. Approved by Governor October 08, 2021. Filed with Secretary of State October 08, 2021. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SB 224, Portantino. Pupil instruction: mental health education. Existing law requires, during the next revision of the publication "Health Framework for California Public Schools," the Instructional Quality Commission to consider developing, and recommending for adoption by the State Board of Education, a distinct category on mental health instruction to educate pupils about all aspects of mental health. Existing law requires mental health instruction for these purposes to include, but not be limited to, specified elements, including reasonably designed and age -appropriate instruction on the overarching themes and core principles of mental health. This bill would require each school district, county office of education, state special school, and charter school that offers one or more courses in health education to pupils in middle school or high school to include in those courses instruction in mental health that meets the requirements of the bill, as specified. The bill would require that instruction to include, among other things, reasonably designed instruction on the overarching themes and core principles of mental health. The bill would require that instruction and related materials to, among other things, be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, genders, sexual orientations, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners. The bill would require the State Department of Education to develop a plan to expand mental health instruction in California public schools on or before January 1, 2024. Vote: majority Appropriation: no Fiscal Committee: yes Local Program: no THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following: (1) Mental health is critical to overall health, well-being, and academic success. (2) Mental health challenges affect all age groups, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic classes. https://Ieginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/biIINavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB224 1/3 7/7/25, 11:50 AM Bill Text - SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. (3) Millions of Californians, including at least one in five youths, live with mental health challenges. Millions more are affected by the mental health challenges of someone else, such as a close friend or family member. (4) Mental health education is one of the best ways to increase awareness and the seeking of help, while reducing the stigma associated with mental health challenges. The public education system is the most efficient and effective setting for providing this education to all youth. (b) For the foregoing reasons, it is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this measure to ensure that all California pupils in grades 1 to 12, inclusive, have the opportunity to benefit from a comprehensive mental health education. SEC. 2. Article 6 (commencing with Section 51925) is added to Chapter 5.5 of Part 28 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code, to read: Article 6. Mandatory Mental Health Education 51925. Each school district, county office of education, state special school, and charter school that offers one or more courses in health education to pupils in middle school or high school shall include in those courses instruction in mental health that meets the requirements of this article. This section shall not be construed to limit a school district, county office of education, state special school, or charter school in offering or requiring instruction in mental health as specified in this article. This instruction shall include all of the following: (a) Reasonably designed instruction on the overarching themes and core principles of mental health. (b) Defining signs and symptoms of common mental health challenges. Depending on pupil age and developmental level, this may include defining conditions such as depression, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and anxiety, including post -traumatic stress disorder. (c) Elucidating the evidence -based services and supports that effectively help individuals manage mental health challenges. (d) Promoting mental health wellness and protective factors, which includes positive development, social and cultural connectedness and supportive relationships, resiliency, problem solving skills, coping skills, self-esteem, and a positive school and home environment in which pupils feel comfortable. (e) The ability to identify warning signs of common mental health problems in order to promote awareness and early intervention so that pupils know to take action before a situation turns into a crisis. This shall include instruction on both of the following: (1) How to seek and find assistance from professionals and services within the school district that includes, but is not limited to, school counselors with a pupil personnel services credential, school psychologists, and school social workers, and in the community for themselves or others. (2) Evidence -based and culturally responsive practices that are proven to help overcome mental health challenges. (f) The connection and importance of mental health to overall health and academic success and to co-occurring conditions, such as chronic physical conditions, chemical dependence, and substance abuse. (g) Awareness and appreciation about the prevalence of mental health challenges across all populations, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses, including the impact of race, ethnicity, and culture on the experience and treatment of mental health challenges. (h) Stigma surrounding mental health challenges and what can be done to overcome stigma, increase awareness, and promote acceptance. This shall include, to the extent possible, classroom presentations of narratives by trained peers and other individuals who have experienced mental health challenges and how they coped with their situations, including how they sought help and acceptance. 51926. Instruction and materials required pursuant to this article shall satisfy all of the following: (a) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, genders, sexual orientations, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners. (b) Be accessible to pupils with disabilities, including, but not limited to, providing a modified curriculum, materials and instruction in alternative formats, and auxiliary aids. https:Hleginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/biliNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB224 2/3 7/7/25, 11:50 AM Bill Text - SB-224 Pupil instruction: mental health education. (c) Not reflect or promote bias against any person on the basis of any category protected by Section 220. (d) Be coordinated with any existing on -campus mental health providers including, but not limited to, providers with a pupil personnel services credential, who may be immediately called upon by pupils for assistance. 51927. (a) This article does not limit a pupil's health and mental health privacy or confidentiality rights. (b) A pupil receiving instruction pursuant to this article shall not be required to disclose their confidential health or mental health information at any time in the course of receiving that instruction, including, but not limited to, for the purpose of the peer component described in subdivision (h) of Section 51925. 51928. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply: (a) "Age appropriate" has the same meaning as defined in Section 51931. (b) "English learner" has the same meaning as defined in Section 51931. (c) "Evidence -based" means verified or supported by research conducted in compliance with scientific methods and published in peer -reviewed journals, where appropriate, and recognized as accurate and objective by professional organizations and agencies with expertise in the mental health field. (d) "Instructors trained in the appropriate courses" means instructors with knowledge of the most recent evidence -based research on mental health. 51929. On or before January 1, 2024, the department shall develop a plan to expand mental health instruction in California public schools. https://leg info. legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=202120220SB224 3/3 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ This copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. Distribution and use of this material are governed by our Subscriber Agreement and by copyright law. For non -personal use or to order multiple copies, please contact Dow Jones Reprints at 1-800-843-0008 or visit www.djreprints.com. https://www.wsi.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5 Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. Educators question whether the rapid shift toward more technology has benefited learning By Sara Randazzo Follow , Matt Barnum Follow and Julie Jargon Follow Jan. 22, 2025 9 00 pm ET Class time has become screen time in American schools. Kindergartners now watch math lessons on YouTube, counting aloud with the videos. Middle- schoolers complete writing drills on Chromebooks while sneaking in play of an online game. High- schoolers mark up Google Docs to finish group projects. The rapid tech transformation amounts to a grand experiment playing out in American schools. Accelerated by pandemic -era online learning, the move has happened with little debate, conflicting research and high stakes for the nation's children. Educators wonder whether the digitization of the classroom has really benefited learning —or if it's done kids a disservice. Some teachers say online tools help create more engaging lessons and provide personalized instruction. Others say the screen -heavy approach has distracted students and burned out teachers. "Covid really shifted things toward, `Oh, we can do this,"' said Stephanie Galvani, a middle -school English teacher in suburban Boston. "But we didn't ask: `Should we do this?"' https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 1 /10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students used their school -issued laptops in San Antonio. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The shift runs counter to the prevailing advice from doctors and psychologists to limit tech use. Some frustrated parents are trying to opt their kids out of school technology, with varying degrees of success. Even some students pine for more analog methods. "I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while," said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz, in San Antonio. "It gives you a headache and I really lose my focus." Students in grades one through 12 now spend an average of 98 minutes on school -issued devices during the school day —more than 20% of the average instructional time —according to data that educational software company Lightspeed Systems analyzed at the request of The Wall Street Journal. The time spent on devices peaks at two hours and 24 minutes daily in sixth grade, or nearly 35% of instructional time, Lightspeed's analysis of more than 2.8 million students in 344 school districts nationwide shows. Use of school devices declined among high-school students, down to 70 minutes a day for 12th-graders, with possible factors including a shift to personal devices and more flexible school schedules, according to Lightspeed. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 2/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Average amount of time per day students spend on school -provided devices During school Outside of school GRADE 1 hour Ira 3 0 6 27 7� 2. 8 &j&, 23 Note: Data from January -June 2024; includes 344 districts and 2.8 million students. Source: Lightspeed Systems Fifty percent of teachers said their students completed at least half of their classwork on a device, up from about 20% of teachers before the pandemic, according to a 2023 survey of nearly 1,000 educators conducted by Brian Jacob, an education researcher at the University of Michigan. Use of technology for homework, group work and assessments also dramatically increased. Research on the effectiveness of tech use in education is mixed and full of company -backed analyses. "I don't think there's one easy answer," Jacob said. "I just don't think we know yet." `Paper is better' On an August day in Abby Ramos Stanutz's San Antonio classroom, 25 eighth -graders filed into first -period English and began class as they often do, with several minutes of free writing. The students each grabbed a school -issued Chromebook and began to type. "I know your fingers are getting tired, but keep going," Ramos Stanutz urged, dimming the lights and playing pop music softly to help students focus. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 3/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students in San Antonio used laptops for a free -writing exercise. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Later in the class, the students turned back to Chromebooks to record influencer -style videos explaining why they liked a book they were reading. Some of Ramos Stanutz's students later explained that while they like the ease of turning in assignments online and using computers for technical skills like coding, the devices create distractions in class and can slow down lessons when the internet goes out or a video a teacher wants to play gets blocked by district software. "I feel like paper is better, anything other than technology," said 14-year-old Carlos Miranda. "I'm hands-on. You can't learn to dissect a frog with a computer." (Education technology companies have, actually, created virtual dissection apps.) Ramos Stanutz said there's no getting rid of technology at this point but she's learned to strike the right balance. She's had to find new strategies to keep students from playing online games or watching videos. "It's like the ocean: You can never turn your back on it," she said. Computer and internet use in schools grew rapidly in the 1990s, alongside technology's rise in everyday life. Schools saw an opportunity to close a digital divide between low-income and wealthier students. The adoption of school technology sped up when the pandemic forced students to learn online. Federal Covid aid helped schools buy students across the country their own laptops or tablets. A multibillion -dollar education -technology industry promised its products could revolutionize teaching and catch students up after the pandemic. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 4/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Abby Ramos Stanutz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Highline Public Schools in Washington state found itself unintentionally thrust into a pre-internet era this school year when a cyberattack shut down its system for more than a month. Sixth -grade math teacher Rachel Nielsen said she initially panicked at not being able to access the digital curriculum —the only way she'd taught since becoming a teacher in 2019. She soon came to embrace methods like using physical tiles and cubes to teach geometry. Students worked together on presentations using large poster boards. Nielsen found students explained their work better when they had to physically write rather than simply plugging answers into online programs. "We got really bogged down by all the possible things we could use that are digital," Nielsen said. "Now I'm realizing it isn't about more technology or another app." 'I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while,' said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ `Too good to be true' Research on the use of technology in education remains unsettled. For instance, a review of 24 studies published last year found that college students retain more information when they take notes by hand rather than on a computer. Some research has found students have better comprehension when reading on paper rather than on a screen. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 5/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Other research on specific technology products —including digital tutoring programs —has shown improvements in student learning. Richard Culatta, the head of an association that supports teachers' use of technology, said lessons using technology have to elevate what the teacher could otherwise do to be effective. "Does it spark curiosity? Or is it just presenting information?" Culatta said. "That distinction right there makes it clear pretty quickly whether the tech use is valuable." Some teachers say they find technology essential for assisting students with specific needs, like using instant -translation apps for recently arrived immigrants or software to make fonts more readable for students with dyslexia. Technology companies often tout internal analyses claiming their products have led to breakthrough gains in student learning. But such results are often overstated, and companies may choose not to release unfavorable findings. "It's really hard to move the needle on student achievement, so if you see something that's too good to be true, it probably is," said Betsy Wolf, a researcher who found in a 2020 paper that company - backed studies produced more positive findings than independent evaluations. IXL Learning, the company behind popular digital education platform IXL, touts that schools using the product score as much as 15 to 17 percentile points higher on state exams. Students in Ramos Stanutz's English class. PHOTO: KAY LEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The most rigorous published evaluation of the product —which is used by 15 million U.S. students was less impressive. A Johns Hopkins University research center report, commissioned by the company, found that IXL had no clear effect on state math scores during the spring of 2023 in a https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 6/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Michigan school district. On a different test, IXL boosted math scores by about five percentile points, the researchers found. In a separate, unpublished Johns Hopkins study —a summary of which was reviewed by the Journal —the effects of IXL were described as "directionally positive" but "not statistically significant." The company chose not to release the study, a spokesman said, because it had a relatively small sample size. Bo Bashkov, senior manager of research at IXL Learning, said the company's figures of 15 to 17 percentile points are "better -case scenario" benchmarks from its own state -by -state research. Removing barriers In lower -income districts, school leaders say giving students and their families access to personal devices has been a huge benefit. Computer access is now nearly universal in U.S. public schools, with 95% of schools reporting that they provided devices to students last school year, according to a federal survey. "It has removed barriers," said Pamela Maddox, the principal of Compton Early College High School, a high -performing school in a district serving majority Latino and Black students. Parents tell her they like that students can easily access their homework from anywhere. The school has doubled down on technology, moving its library into a smaller room to make way for a high-tech lab funded by Verizon, equipped with a podcasting room, robotics equipment, 3-D printer and esports stations. On a walk through campus in September, Maddox entered an Advanced Placement English class taught by Porsja Dyer. There, students sitting with Chromebooks typed out reflections on factors that have shaped their identity. Their responses were instantly shared with the entire class. "And yes, I turned the hearts on so you can like each other's work today," Dyer said. At one table, students looked up from their screens to say they liked using technology in class because they can find information and write responses more quickly and it makes life easier. Reducing technology Many parents are content with the growth of educational technology. In one survey from 2023, commissioned by the nonprofit EdChoice, about three in four parents said that computer use was having a positive effect on their child's learning. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 7/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Still, about 40% of parents said their children spent too much time on screens. In a separate EdChoice poll, 35% of teenagers said their school used too much technology. I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education; said Andrea Davis, a mother of five. PHOTO: KRISTINA BARKER FOR WSJ "For parents who want to reduce screen time, schools are undercutting them," said Jonathan Haid a social psychologist at New York University's Stern School of Business whose recent book, "The Anxious Generation," helped fuel smartphone bans in schools across the country. Mileva Repasky, a mother of three in Phoenixville, Pa., who co-founded the nonprofit Phone -Free Schools Movement, had her children track their school and home screen use for two weeks at the Journal's request. One Wednesday in October, her 17-year-old son, David, spent nearly 2 /z hours on his school -issued Chromebook doing work at school and an additional 70 minutes doing homework on his Chromebook. That was on top of the 42 minutes at lunch watching TikTok and Netflix on his phone that day and 80 minutes at home gaming or looking at Instagram. Total screen time: more than 5 /2 hours. He said he learns better when taking notes on paper and that he'd like it if classmates would talk to each other more during lunch. His mom said she had no idea David was spending so much time on his laptop for school. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 8/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Amount of time at school Mileva Repasky's children spent on school -provided devices Madelyn • 11 YEARS OLD • 5TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 5 min. SCHOOL DAY TUESDAY 1 hour 5 min. i9�ft�st�ts ,�� 00, Katie • 13 YEARS OLD • 7TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 30 min. TUESDAY 1 hour David • 17 YEARS OLD • 11TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 27 min. ut�11i'� TUESDAY Note: Data for Oct. 28-Nov.1, 2024 Source: Mileva Repasky 1 hour I' WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 40 min. 1 hour 5 min. 55 min. WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 1 hour 18 min. 1 hour 15 min. 1 hour 31 min. �Ql�9ii 1��1ti�ulr , h�1Pum� 9iJ1 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 2 hours 22 min. 2 hours 2 hours 30 min. SS IIl)l� l 444i}� Ity� ;(4sss� "The entire day is filled with technology," said David, a junior at a private high school. "We use our computers from first period to eighth period, and even at lunch there's no socializing because everyone is on their phones playing games." Repasky's nonprofit and other advocacy groups have helped usher in a wave of cellphone bans at the school -district and state level in recent years, though enforcement is often a challenge and phones are still pervasive on many campuses. Mom of five Andrea Davis wasn't happy with the prevalence of technology in her local public school district in Hood River, Ore. "I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education," she said. Davis, who runs a business that helps families reduce screen time, worked with the district to organize student and community meetings and presented a formal plan on how to reduce https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 9/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ technology use. This school year, the middle-schoolers aren't bringing school -issued iPads home with them, and the district is making sure every tech application is educationally sound. School leaders didn't take up other recommendations, like banning YouTube and eliminating iPads in early -grade classrooms. "There's this misconception that we've let the cat out of the bag," Davis said. "But no, this is an opportunity we have now." Write to Sara Randazzo at sara.randazzo@wsj.com, Matt Barnum at matt.barnum@wsj.com and Julie Jargon at Julie.Jargon@wsj.com Appeared in the January 24, 2025, print edition as 'Screens Are Taking Over In American Classrooms https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 10/10 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. Ili LEGISLATIVE INFORMATION Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. (2019-2020) SHARE THIS: Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 73 CHAPTER 158 Relative to Blue Light Awareness Day. [ Filed with Secretary of State September 19, 2019. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SCR 73, Pan. Blue Light Awareness Day. This measure would designate October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California. Fiscal Committee: no WHEREAS, There are over 80 million electronic devices with digital screens in the State of California; and WHEREAS, Screen time viewing with electronic devices exceeds over nine hours per day; and WHEREAS, The increased usage of, and access to, digital devices by young children and adolescents is an acute area of concern, as ophthalmologists, optometrists, and medical researchers continue to learn more about the short-term effects of increasing and cumulative exposure to artificial blue light on the developing human eye and mental health at a young age, along with long-term potential cumulative effects on adult eye health and mental development; and WHEREAS, The scientific community and recent studies have identified growing concerns over potential long- term eye and health impacts for all age groups from digital screen usage and cumulative blue light exposure emitted from digital devices; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been reported to cause visual discomfort in 65 percent of Americans; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been associated with possible harmful effects on retinal cell physiology linked to the high-energy, short wavelength in the narrow range of 415-455 nanometers; and WHEREAS, Cumulative blue light exposure from digital devices has been shown to disrupt sleep cycles by suppressing the natural release of melatonin and has also been linked to premature aging of the retina, which could accelerate potential long-term vision problems such as age -related macular degeneration, decreased alertness, and memory and emotional regulation impacts; and WHEREAS, Screen time can take a toll on vision health and comfort, leading to symptoms of digital eye strain and dry, irritated eyes; and https:Hlegi nfo.legislatu re.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 1 /2 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. WHEREAS, Given the growing body of research around the breadth and scope of potential eye and systemic health impacts related to blue light exposure, the State of California encourages citizens, particularly children, to consider taking protective safety measures in reducing eye exposure to high-energy visible blue light; now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California; and be it further Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution. https:Hleginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 2/2 Did you know struggling students are more likely to confide in a peer than an adult? With Hope Squad, 95% of student members reported knowing how and where to get help. Why Choose Hope Squad? Hope Squad's peer -to -peer suicide prevention programming enables all students to thrive. Student -Centered Programming 100% of parents agreed Hope Squad helps their child make a positive difference. Transformational Impact 98% of school administrators agreed Hope Squad promotes a positive school climate. Collaborative Partnership 95% of school leaders agreed Hope Squad provides the support needed to be effective. "I have never seen a program change the culture of our schools the way Hope Squad has. The power of peer -to -peer and education about mental illness has opened doors and saved lives." Dr. Holly Ferguson, Superintendent of Prosper Independent School District, Prosper, TX PROGRAM INNOVATION Grant Resource This document is designed to help anyone understand, write, and submit grant applications. Whether you're seeking funding for one Squad or a whole district, this guide provides step-by- step instructions, best practices, and examples to support your application process. By following the guidance in this document, you will be well-equipped to create compelling grant proposals that stand out and secure the funding you need. A quick note about metrics and deliverables: It is important to outline clear and measurable metrics that will demonstrate the success and impact of your Hope Squad. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and deliverables will not only guide your project's implementation but also provide tangible evidence to funders that their investment is yielding positive results. As a reminder, Hope Squad is able to provide some specific data in relation to your school or district, if your Advisors have the students, parents, and admins fill it out. All data will be de - identified before it is sent, ensuring confidentiality and privacy. However, Hope Squad does not claim responsibility for the completion of any grant objectives as you lay them out in your grant document. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. Revised Jan 2025 LearningAbout Grants..................................................................................................................3 Common Inclusions in Grant Applications.................................................................................3 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications......................................................4 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad.........................................5 SampleGrant Timeline.............................................................................................................6 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad.......................................................................7 CoverLetter.............................................................................................................................7 ExecutiveSummary..................................................................................................................7 Statementof Need...................................................................................................................8 ProjectDescription...................................................................................................................9 Summary of Hope Squad Program Components....................................................................9 ProjectGoals.........................................................................................................................11 Objectives..........................................................................................................................11 PhasedImplementation Plan..................................................................................................12 ExpectedOutcomes...............................................................................................................13 Evaluation and Metrics for Success.....................................................................................14 Target Population and Demographics......................................................................................17 SustainabilityPlan..................................................................................................................18 Organizational Background and Capacity................................................................................18 Budget and Justification..........................................................................................................19 GrantAppendices...............................................................................................................20 Additional Supportive Information: ............................................................................................. 22 Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: ................................................................ 22 CoverLetter...........................................................................................................................25 Letterof Support Template......................................................................................................26 2 Revised Jan 2025 Learning About Grants Common Inclusions in Grant Applications 1. Cover Letter: A brief, formal letter introducing the applicant, summarizing the project, and explaining why the funding request aligns with the grantor's mission. 2. Executive Summary: A concise summary of the project, outlining its objectives, expected outcomes, target audience, and the funding request amount. 3. Statement of Need: A section describing the problem or need the project addresses, supported by data, research, and specific evidence of why the issue is important. 4. Project Description: Details about the project, often including: • Goals and Objectives: Clear goals and measurable objectives. • Activities and Timeline: Specific actions planned, and a timeline for implementation. • Methodology: The approach or strategies used to achieve the objectives. 5. Target Population and Demographics: Information about the people or community served, including demographics, location, and unique needs. 6. Evaluation Plan: A plan to assess the project's impact and effectiveness, often outlining metrics, data collection methods, and reporting practices. 7. Sustainability Plan: A description of how the project will continue after the grant period ends, either through other funding sources or ongoing community support. 8. Budget and Justification: A detailed budget with explanations for each expense, demonstrating responsible use of funds and alignment with project goals. 9. Organizational Background and Capacity: Information about the applicant organization's history, mission, past accomplishments, and its capacity to implement the proposed project. 10. Appendices: Additional materials, such as letters of support, resumes of key personnel, charts, data, or other relevant documents to reinforce the proposal. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 3 Revised Jan 2025 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications ASPECT Application Process Review Process Funding Requirements and Priorities Compliance and Reporting Budget and Allowable Expenses Match Requirements Timing and Availability FEDERAL/GOV'T GRANTS PRIVATE FOUNDATION GRANTS Highly structured with standardized forms and strict guidelines, usually submitted through government portals like grants.gov. Reviews are rigorous and standardized, with multiple reviewers and specific scoring metrics. The process can be lengthy, with results taking months to release. Often prioritize programs with broad public impact, aligning with policy goals. Require evidence -based programs with specific success metrics. Compliance requirements include detailed financial documentation, regular progress reports, and adherence to federal regulations. Failure to comply can result in loss of funding. Follow strict federal guidelines, exclude indirect costs and prohibited items like lobbying. Be cautious with reimbursement grants, as they often require you to spend money prior to receiving money and may not be suitable for your needs. Often require matching funds from the applicant, either cash or in -kind, to show investment. Issued annually with predictable schedules and published notices, helping organizations plan their applications. More flexible with unique guidelines, submitted via email, online forms, or foundation - specific portals, often starting with Letters of Inquiry (LOls). Reviews vary from informal to structured, often involving board members or advisors. Timelines are typically shorter than for government grants. Focus on the founders' or board's interests, often funding innovative or niche projects not fitting federal criteria. Reporting often focuses on project outcomes with more flexibility and less intensive financial scrutiny. Typically offer more flexibility in allowable expenses, including areas like capacity building or indirect costs. Rarely require matching funds but may prefer evidence of other funding for project sustainability. Lack regular deadlines, often operating on a rolling basis or offering funds periodically. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 4 Revised Jan 2025 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad To maximize success, schools or districts should approach grant applications strategically. Here's a step-by-step guide to choosing the right grant and applying successfully: 1. Identifying Needs and Objectives • Assess Program Needs: Determine the specific needs that a grant would address (e.g., mental health programming, curriculum updates, technology upgrades). • Define Objectives: Outline clear, measurable objectives to address those needs. 2. Research Potential Grants • Compare Federal vs. Private Grants: Choose which type suits your project best. • Matching Criteria: Ensure the grant's goals align with your objectives. • Funding and Restrictions: Consider the needed funding and allowed expenses. 3. Assess Readiness and Resources • Capacity to Manage the Grant: Determine if the school has the personnel and systems to manage the grant effectively. • Gather Supporting Data: Collect relevant data to support the application. • Confirm Stakeholder Support: Get buy -in from key stakeholders. 4. Draft a Timeline and Team for the Grant Application Process • Identify Key Personnel: Assign a grant team with relevant expertise. • Set a Timeline: Create a realistic timeline for preparing, writing, and submitting the application. • Budget Planning: Start drafting a budget that matches grant requirements. 5. Writing the Grant Application • Review the grant's guidelines in detail and complete each section thoroughly. • Clearly explain why the program is necessary, detail goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. • Provide a clear, itemized budget with justifications and describe how you'll assess the program success. • Ensure the application is clear, well -organized, and free of errors. 6. Submit the Application and Follow Up • Double -Check Requirements: Confirm that all required documents are included. • Submit Early and Follow Up: Confirm receipt and inquire about the decision timeline. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 5 Revised Jan 2025 Sample Grant Timeline This timeline assumes a 12-week period leading up to the grant submission deadline, though you can adjust it based on specific grant requirements and internal timelines. Week 1-2: Identify project needs: collaborate with stakeholders, set goals. Research preparation grants, check eligibility. Hold stakeholder meeting: confirm alignment, assign and roles. Set timeline: form team, assign roles, and set deadlines. planning Week 3-4: Gather Supporting Data: Collect statistics, research findings, program Data successes, community needs, and student demographics Collection Draft Program Description: Begin drafting the project narrative by focusing on and the goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. Identify and outline potential Drafting measurable outcomes. Budget Planning: Collaborate with the finance team to create an initial budget that outlines all projected costs, including training, materials, staffing, and evaluation expenses. Week 5-6: Statement of Need: Use collected data to explain why the project is vital for Writing the your school or district. Application Refine Project Description and Objectives: Detail each objective and activity, aligning them with the grant's goals. Specify timelines, roles, and required resources. Budget Justification: Finalize the budget and justify each expense, ensuring they align with grant guidelines. Evaluation Plan: Outline how to assess the project's success, including metrics, data collection methods, and reporting requirements. Week 7-8: Internal Review: Share the application draft with team members and Review and stakeholders for review and feedback. Ensure alignment with the school. Focus Revise on clarity, conciseness, and alignment with the grantor's objectives. Proofread: Check grammar, formatting, and consistency. Ensure compliance with the application's guidelines. Week 9-10: Prepare Required Attachments: Compile required supporting documents, Finalization such as letters of support, resumes, organizational charts, and tax status and documentation. Approval Administrative Approval: Present the final draft to school administrators or district leadership for approval. Gather necessary signatures from authorized personnel (e.g., superintendent, principal, finance officer). Week 11: Double -Check Requirements: Review the application checklist to ensure all Submission components are included and complete. Preparation Submission Platform Review: Confirm familiarity with the grant's submission process (e.g., online portal, email, or mail). Prepare digital copies in the required formats. Submit Application Early: Aim to submit the application a few days before the deadline to allow for technical issues or last-minute changes. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 0 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad Cover Letter Purpose: Introduce the school or district, outline the need for suicide prevention, and explain why Hope Squad is the ideal solution. • Sample Content: At [school or district name], we aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for all our students. Currently, we are identifying several mental health and school safety issues that need to be addressed. These include [increased levels of stress and anxiety among students, as well as concerns about bullying and emergency preparedness.] To tackle these issues, we have [implemented several measures. Our initiatives include enhancing our school's counseling services, organizing workshops on mental health awareness, and establishing clear protocols for handling emergencies and bullying incidents.] We are committed to continuously improving our approach to ensure the well-being and safety of our school community. • On behalf of [School or District Name], we are seeking funding to implement Hope Squad, an evidence -based, peer -led suicide prevention program. This program helps students identify and support peers in crisis, fostering a safe, stigma -free school environment. It encourages students to recognize warning signs and provides them with resources for support. Feedback from administrators shows that Hope Squad contributes to a positive school culture, and we would like to join the thousands of schools and 43 states that currently have this program in place. • Hope Squad equips students with essential skills to manage daily stress, promotes emotional literacy, leadership, safety, and actively discourages drug use. Additionally, it addresses the dangers of social media, educating students on recognizing risks like cyberbullying and the impact on mental health. Executive Summary Overview: Summarize the project's main goals, the intended impact, and the funding amount requested. • Sample Content: "[School or District Name] requests [amount] to launch Hope Squad in [number of schools]. This initiative will support student -led mental health advocacy, reduce suicide stigma, and foster a supportive school climate. Funds will enable advisor training, student resources, and engagement activities, impacting [estimated number] students and their families." HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 7 Revised Jan 2025 • Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [specify grade levels, e.g., 6-12], offering a structured curriculum and ongoing peer support. This funding will allow us to train advisors, engage students, and run awareness events, including the school -wide Hope Week. Through Hope Squad, our goal is to create a culture of connection, resilience, and hope within our school. Statement of Need Problem Description: Highlight the need for youth mental health support and suicide prevention in your school or district, referencing local or national statistics if possible. • Sample Content: Youth suicide rates are rising nationwide, with many students facing mental health challenges without adequate support. In our community, [insert relevant local statistics or insights, e.g., recent mental health statistics for the area or challenges specific to the student population]. Schools play a crucial role in addressing these needs by creating environments where students feel safe and supported. • Despite these needs, our school currently lacks a structured, peer -led mental health program that directly addresses suicide prevention. Research and feedback from schools with Hope Squad programs indicate its effectiveness in reducing stigma, increasing student connectedness, and providing students with the resources they need to help each other. Implementing Hope Squad in [School or District Name] will address this critical gap and create a foundation for sustainable mental health support. • Supporting Points: o Youth mental health needs are rising nationwide, with suicide prevention a top priority in school settings. o Many school staff and administrators report needing more resources, training, and consistent opportunities for student engagement to fully realize Hope Squad's potential. o Include any crisis referral data or mental health screener data you may already have for your school, district or county. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 8 Revised Jan 2025 Project Description This project aims to implement the Hope Squad program at [School Name] to create a peer -led suicide prevention initiative. The program empowers students to identify signs of distress in their peers and connect them with trusted adults. By training students —Hope Squad Members —and certified advisors, it fosters a supportive environment for mental wellness. Squad Members act as additional eyes and ears, observing signs of distress and reporting them, rather than serving as counselors. Hope Squad offers a comprehensive gatekeeper model reinforced through various lessons. It includes experiential learning, confidence building, mental health literacy, and self -care knowledge for students. Squad Members are selected by their classmates as peers they trust and would approach to talk to. These selected members are then screened by adults, approved for participation by their parents, and introduced to Hope Squad through a series of meetings and events. Trained Advisors (school personnel managing the Squad) have streamlined access to program resources through a virtual portal, complete with direct links to lesson materials, monthly activity toolkits, and a Hope Week Toolkit. Advisors can quickly access content, reducing preparation time and helping them focus on meaningful interactions with students. The lessons imparted during Hope Squad meetings are actively implemented within the broader school community through the efforts of individual members, monthly themes, and school -wide events and activities. The initiatives of Hope Squad are integrated into the daily school environment in a manner that avoids adding extra burden or distracting from educational objectives. This approach ensures that support is nurtured not only within the school but also extends into students' homes and the wider community. Summary of Hope Squad Program Components A more detailed description of the following information is available in the "Additional Supportive Information" section of this document, however the highlights listed here may be beneficial to additional questions in the Project section of a grant application. • HOPE Approach: A foundational lesson that teaches suicide prevention, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. • Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: The elementary curriculum introduces key skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness, laying the groundwork for students' mental wellness and future learning. Many lessons use books to promote reading literacy and social -emotional development while HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life 9 Revised Jan 2025 emphasizing the importance of identifying and informing trusted adults about peers in need. o Secondary: Junior high/high school students annually learn to identify warning signs and follow referral protocols. The program covers relationships, self -care, leadership, empathy, resilience, and coping skills, with flexible lesson formats. It emphasizes experiential learning and includes activities for the school community and families. Lesson Strands (Structured topics spanning age levels with years of material) • Core Hope Squad Content • Suicide Prevention • Building Relationships (Elementary)/Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary) • Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/Cultivating Empathy (Secondary) • Constructive Choices • Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/Developing Resilience (Secondary) Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. • Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. Parent and Community Involvement • Ongoing Parent Education: Regular information for parents to educate them on mental health topics and how to support their children. • Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local mental health organizations, community leaders, and businesses to provide additional resources and support for students and families. • Regular Feedback and Improvement: Collecting feedback from students, parents, and educators to continually improve the program and ensure it meets the community's needs. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 10 Revised Jan 2025 Project Goals Goals are broad, overarching outcomes that the program aims to achieve over time. They define the ultimate impact of implementing the Hope Squad program. Enhance Suicide Prevention Literacy and Stigma Reduction: Foster a culture of mental health awareness where students feel empowered to openly discuss mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. 2. Strengthen School Safety and Support Networks: Create a supportive environment where students, through their training as Hope Squad members, act as the "eyes and ears" of the school, recognizing peers in crisis and connecting them with trusted adults. 3. Promote School -Wide Engagement and Community Building: Encourage positive relationships and a sense of belonging through school -wide events such as Hope Week and monthly awareness campaigns. Objectives Objectives are specific, measurable actions that support the achievement of the program's goals. They outline what will be accomplished within the grant period. 1. Train Advisors and Students in Suicide Prevention: Conduct [X number] of HOPE Approach training sessions for advisors and student members, equipping them with gatekeeping skills to identify and refer peers in distress. 2. Increase Peer -Led Engagement in Suicide Prevention Efforts: Implement [X number] of peer -led mental health awareness activities and workshops, increasing participation and reinforcing suicide prevention literacy among the student body. 3. Facilitate Regular Mental Health Awareness Events: Organize and execute monthly themes and events, including Hope Week, to promote consistent engagement and education around mental wellness. 4. Enhance Crisis Identification and Referral: Establish a clear protocol for Hope Squad members to report concerns to trained advisors, aiming for [specific metric, e.g.,100% of reported cases receiving appropriate follow-up]. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 11 Revised Jan 2025 Phased Implementation Plan Phase 1: Program Setup and Advisor Training (Months 1-2) • Advisor Selection: Select school staff to serve as Hope Squad advisors, ensuring they have a strong interest in student mental health and well-being. Advisors will be responsible for guiding students, facilitating discussions, and organizing events. • Advisor Training: Advisors will undergo an estimated 6 hours of comprehensive training in the HOPE Approach, program implementation guidance, skills -based practice on how to lead discussions on mental health, manage student questions, and support squad members. Advisors also learn how to utilize Hope Squad's online portal for resources and program guidance through a series of microlessons available on demand. • Baseline Data Collection: Collect initial data to assess the current mental health climate, student connectedness, and awareness levels related to mental health and suicide. This may include surveys, attendance records, and input from counselors and administration. Phase 2: Student Selection and Training (Months 2-3) • Student Nominations and Selection: Identify and nominate students based on their trustworthiness, empathy, and leadership qualities. Teachers, counselors, and peers may contribute nominations to ensure diverse representation within the Hope Squad. • HOPE Approach Training for Students: Once selected, Hope Squad members will participate in training sessions to learn the HOPE Approach. Training topics will include recognizing mental health warning signs, handling sensitive conversations, and understanding when to refer peers to adults. • Program Introduction to School Community: Host an informational event to introduce Hope Squad to the broader school community, explaining the program's purpose, how students can engage with squad members, and the availability of support resources. Phase 3: Program Activation and Initial Engagement (Months 3-6) • Monthly Hope Squad Meetings: Begin regular meetings with Hope Squad members to discuss mental health topics, practice skills learned during training, and plan school -wide activities. Meetings will also provide a safe space for members to share their experiences and receive support. • Hope Week Planning and Execution: Organize Hope Week as a major event to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention across the school. Activities may include guest speakers, workshops, and peer -led activities that promote inclusion and empathy. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 12 Revised Jan 2025 • Monthly Awareness Themes: Implement monthly themes focused on mental health awareness, resilience, and support strategies. Themes may include "Kindness and Inclusion," "Self -Care and Wellness," and "Building Connections," with activities aligned to each theme. Phase 4: Evaluation and Continuous Improvement (Ongoing, with Quarterly Checkpoints) • Ongoing Feedback Collection: Gather ongoing feedback from Hope Squad members, advisors, and the school community. Feedback will inform adjustments to the program and help address any emerging needs or challenges. • Data Tracking and Progress Reporting: Track key metrics such as referrals made, advisor and student satisfaction, participation in Hope Week, and attendance at monthly meetings. Quarterly reports will be prepared for internal review and grant reporting. End -of -Year Assessment and Review: Conduct a comprehensive assessment at the end of the school year, reviewing data to evaluate the program's effectiveness in improving mental health awareness, student connectedness, and help -seeking behaviors. Use this data to make program improvements for the following year. Expected Outcomes Upon successful implementation, [School Name] will develop a proactive and sustainable peer - to -peer suicide prevention program that emphasizes collaboration among student leaders and is underpinned by strong school faculty and staff support. Hope Squad aims to cultivate an inclusive and empathetic environment that empowers students to address mental health challenges effectively while providing resilient support to their peers and the broader school community. The program incorporates structured components to achieve these goals, including training sessions and interactive activities tailored to enhance students' and staff's efforts in suicide prevention. These adaptable lesson formats will allow for continuous mental health education and gatekeeper skill development, particularly equipping students with the tools to identify and address mental health concerns within themselves and among their classmates. Moreover, the Hope Squad program will actively engage the selected Squad members and the entire school population, promoting a culture of openness and understanding surrounding mental health. By fostering strong connections and proactive support systems, this initiative will encourage students to seek help and support each other in overcoming personal challenges. Ultimately, [School Name] aspires to create a healthier school environment where every student feels valued, understood, and equipped to contribute positively to their mental well-being and that of others, and believes Hope Squad will help [School Name] achieve this aim. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 13 Revised Jan 2025 Evaluation and Metrics for Success Approach: Measure success through both quantitative (e.g., referral rates, engagement levels) and qualitative (e.g., advisor and member feedback) metrics at multiple time points. Note for Your Grant Writing Team: While Hope Squad supports school data collection by providing access to de -identified results from students, advisors, and parents, Hope Squad is not responsible for achieving your grant outcomes as specified in your grant application. The pre - and post -survey data collection is solely dependent on whether Advisors administer the surveys or [school/district] opts -out of collection. Data is only shared with those having a school domain address and doesn't capture identifying information. If you have questions, or need assistance, email our research team at research@hopesquad.com Sample: "We will evaluate the program's impact through both quantitative and qualitative measures collected at multiple time points. Pre-, mid-, and post -program surveys will assess changes in mental health literacy, stigma reduction, and help -seeking behaviors among students. Additionally, we will collect data on referral rates, engagement levels in peer -led activities, and participation in events like Hope Week. Qualitative feedback from advisors, Hope Squad members, and other stakeholders will be gathered regularly through interviews, focus groups, and written reflections. This will help us understand program challenges, successes, and opportunities for improvement. By evaluating progress throughout the program and not just at the end, we aim to ensure continuous growth, timely adjustments, and sustained impact." Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Increased Mental Health Awareness: Measure changes in student understanding of mental health concepts (e.g., suicide prevention skills and gatekeeper knowledge), as reflected in pre- and post -program surveys. Student Help -Seeking Behavior: Track the number of students referred to counselors by Hope Squad members and the frequency of peer -to -peer support interactions. Program Engagement and Visibility: Monitor participation in Hope Week and monthly awareness events, as well as feedback from school -wide surveys on program visibility and impact. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 14 Revised Jan 2025 Data Collection Methods: Member Pre- and Post -Surveys: Administer surveys at the beginning and end of the school year to measure changes in the following outcomes. Suggested Target: 75% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Elementary Measured Outcomes: - Bullying Resistance - Enjoyment - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy - Self -care Awareness - Stress Secondary Measured Outcomes: - Compassion Fatigue - Compassion Satisfaction - Gatekeeper Knowledge - Suicide Prevention Knowledge & Skills - Peer Support Engagement - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy Stakeholder Pre- and Post -Surveys: Hope Squad school administrators, advisors, and parents are encouraged to complete provided surveys at the beginning and end of each academic year. Results from these surveys can speak to whether and how stakeholders believe Hope Squad has impacted the school environment and overall satisfaction with the program. Suggested Target: 50% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Mental Health Referral Forms (MHRF): These forms are designed to capture instances of mental concerns among any student within a school - not just Hope Squad members. The data collected is indicative of how members' learnings (e.g., addressing mental health stigma, willingness to engage in help -seeking behaviors, etc.) and schoolwide activities permeate throughout the student body. Moreover, the MHRF can capture how a student was referred to a trusted adult, the nature of the student's mental health concern, relevant adverse events, and what resources were provided to the student. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 15 Revised Jan 2025 Suggested Target: Report the total number of MHRF collected as well as the number or ratio) of referrals provided by Hope Squad members versus students in the general population. Additional metrics of potential interest are student demographics, the nature of each concern (e.g., suicidal ideation with intent to harm oneself versus suicidal ideation without intent to harm oneself), and the frequency of each type of follow-up resource provided to students in need. Additional Metrics for Schools to Consider Collecting Independently: Advisor and Member Reports: Collect feedback from advisors and Hope Squad members after each major event to assess engagement, program challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Collect the number of members trained. Quarterly Reports: Generate quarterly reports to continuously assess the program's impact on student connectedness, awareness, and safety. Stigma Reduction: If wanting to report specifically on stigma reduction, we recommend using a validated survey instrument, such as the Stigma of Suicide Scale (SOSS-SF). Hope Squad's previous research (2022) has used this scale. School Wide Changes: Schoolwide Student Survey Pre -Hope Squad formation and Post implementation would greatly enhance the evidence of impact. If you do choose this measure, Hope Squad would love to know about your findings! HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 16 Revised Jan 2025 Target Population and Demographics • Description: Describe the student population the program will serve, including demographic details and any specific community needs. • Demographics: Hope Squad programming is designed to serve students in grades 4 through 12, with the opportunity to impact students from kindergarten through their senior year of high school. The program specifically targets students who might otherwise lack access to mental health resources, equipping them with tools to support one another. Hope Squad prioritizes literacy, accessibility, and cultural relevance. Research suggests that larger teams of peer supporters AND those that are representative of the student body can result in a better diffusion of suicide prevention program's messaging in schools (Pickering et al., 2018; 2022). • Sample: Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [6-12, etc.] across [specify school or district area, e.g., rural/suburban/urban settings]. Many students face barriers to mental health care, and peer -led support can be a powerful first step in addressing these challenges. The program will prioritize inclusivity and support students from diverse backgrounds, including those in underserved communities who may lack access to mental health resources. Member Demographics collected via Hope Squad: • Age (Birth Month/Year) • Grade Level • Gender Identity • Racial/Ethnic Identity • State • School Name HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 17 Revised Jan 2025 Sustainability Plan • Strategy: Funding will address critical needs for training and program materials, empowering advisors to maintain the program effectively. By establishing a sustainable model that includes a student council, trained advisors, and maintaining continuity with members who serve on the squad year after year, the team operates efficiently. • Long -Term Plan: Secure sustainable funding through school budgets and community partnerships, with continued collaboration with mental health organizations • Sample: This funding will provide the resources needed to establish Hope Squad and support its initial implementation. Our goal is to sustain the program through continued collaboration with school counselors, community mental health organizations, district -level funding, partnerships with mental health or healthcare organizations or national funding through Title IV or Title I. We will integrate Hope Squad activities into our school's yearly calendar to ensure its longevity. At an estimated expense of $6.00 per student*, this program remains affordable year over year. By building relationships and a culture of support, we anticipate that the program will grow and remain a vital part of our school's mental health resources. Organizational Background and Capacity • School or District Background: Describe the school's commitment to student well- being and previous mental health initiatives. • Capacity to Implement Program: Highlight existing mental health resources (e.g., counselors, school psychologists) that will support Hope Squad. Sample: [School or District Name] has a long-standing commitment to student well-being, previously implementing [mention any relevant programs or initiatives, e.g., anti -bullying campaigns, mental health awareness events]. Our counseling and administrative teams have the experience needed to support Hope Squad's implementation, and we have strong relationships with local mental health organizations that will reinforce the program's goals. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 18 Revised Jan 2025 Budget and Justification • Itemized Budget: o Training and Resources: Fund Certified Advisor training for a minimum of 2 advisors per school, 2 seats to Advisor Gatekeeper training (QPR, LivingWorks Start) as well as any resources or stipends needed. o Community Engagement and Awareness: Provide for Hope Week and monthly mental health awareness activities to promote school -wide support and reduce stigma. o Implementation Support: Allocate funds for materials, scheduling support, and resources that facilitate regular, impactful Hope Squad meetings. • Justification: Each item in the budget directly addresses areas identified by advisors and administrators, fostering program sustainability and a positive impact on school climate. Sample: Item Description Amount Training for Advisors Certified Advisor and Gatekeeper training $[X] Advisor Stipend Supporting additional time Advisors provide $[X] Program Materials Awareness materials and activity guides $[X] Hope Week Activities Resources and promotional materials for events $[X] Monthly Awareness Materials for ongoing student engagement $[X] Events Evaluation Tools Survey tools, data collection, and analysis $[X] support i16 Justification: These expenses will directly support program implementation, including comprehensive training, materials for student and community engagement, and evaluation to ensure the program's impact is measured and understood. This budget has been designed based on identified needs from existing Hope Squad programs and feedback from advisors and administrators. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 19 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Appendices • Letters of Support: From school administrators, community leaders, and mental health professionals who advocate for the Hope Squad program. (See template) • Program Evaluation Data: In reviewing MHRF data from the 2023-24 academic year to present, 95% of referrals were made by non -Hope Squad members. This demonstrates that Hope Squad's programming extends its impact beyond its members, fostering school -wide awareness of resources and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. The data highlights how the program creates a culture of care, equipping the entire school community with the knowledge and confidence to take action when someone may be struggling. • Advisor and Administrator Feedback Excerpts: Quotes from Hope Squad stakeholders in the 2024-2024 academic year that emphasizes the program's positive impact. For instance: o Administrator: "Hope Squad has been a positive connection and reinforcement of our school -wide message of 'All Are Welcome Here'. It has been a great peer to peer program and allows for positive school culture that promotes a sense of belonging." o Advisor: "The most important benefit Hope Squad brings to our school is encouraging and promoting a school climate of kindness and friendship. Hope Squad members connect with students from every level on campus and encourages positive relationships where kiddos have more connectedness and feeling of belonging across the grade levels." o Parent: "Learning about how to help his peers identify when they might need some help has strengthened my son's ability to identify that same thing in himself. His self-awareness has grown as he's helped others grow. He's always been a very compassionate and empathetic kid, and this has only increased with his participation. He loves the community Hope Squad provides and was excited to participate in every meeting and feels like he's making a difference." • Testimonials: From students and advisors who've experienced the benefits of Hope Squad, demonstrating the program's life-saving potential and its role in building a positive school culture. For instance: o "Hope Squad has taught me the importance of inclusivity and compassion as many students can feel isolated and unseen. I now know that every day interactions can help make a connection that positively impacts others" - (Hope Squad Member Abigail W.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 20 Revised Jan 2025 o "Hope Squad helps me connect to my community because [it] has encouraged me to make more friends and attend events and build connections with people that otherwise, I'm not sure I would have made. I feel as though because of Hope Squad, I'm close to a big portion of my school/peers." (Hope Squad Member: Lily L.) o 1 have loved being a part of Hope Squad. I have always been aware of mental health issues and the signs but actually being trained to deal with them has helped me learn a lot more. I feel more secure and comfortable knowing that I will be able to notice the warning signs and know how to deal with the situation accordingly. I also enjoy going to our meetings for our lessons. I have truly learned a lot and feel that I have become a better person because of Hope Squad." (Hope Squad Member, Asma M.) o "Being a part of Hope Squad has been an incredibly profound and meaningful experience for me. It has allowed me to gain invaluable insights and learnings, which have helped me develop my emotional intelligence and hone my problem - solving abilities. These skills have not only enabled me to support my fellow high school students, but they have also fundamentally changed the way I approach helping others." (Hope Squad Member: Saahithi P.) o "The most meaningful thing about Hope Squad tome is being able to educate the student body at my school. Many people do not know what mental health is or even how to take care of their own wellbeing. Hope Squad presents an opportunity to create a positive atmosphere in your school." (Hope Squad Member, Reagan G.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 21 Revised Jan 2025 Additional Supportive Information, Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: Program Components 1. Integrated Gatekeeper Model - HOPE Approach • At the core of Hope Squad is the HOPE Approach, a foundational lesson that builds essential suicide prevention competencies, including understanding protective factors, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. HOPE Approach content is spiraled throughout lessons to continue building knowledge and practicing critical skills in identification and referral. 2. Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: Designed for younger students, the elementary curriculum introduces essential skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness. This foundational framework supports mental wellness and prepares students for more advanced concepts as they progress. Many of these lessons are based on popular books, promoting both reading literacy and social -emotional development. Identifying students who are experiencing difficulties is not only important, but it is also the centerpiece of the program. Informing a trusted adult is the recommended course of action for students. o Secondary: Each year, junior high and high school students learn to identify warning signs, address distress or suicide, and follow referral protocols for timely intervention. This 3-lesson framework is repeated annually to ensure competency. Hope Squad then offers lessons on relationships, self -care, leadership, compassion, mindfulness, empathy, resilience, and coping skills. Advisors can choose from a set number of lessons each year, with new material available for 3 to 4 years. Squads can use both full-length (]-hour) and mini -lesson (under 30 minutes) formats, adapting to different schedules while covering critical concepts. The program emphasizes experiential learning and includes optional activities for the school community and families in each lesson. 3. Program Lesson Strands (Topics) The lessons have been organized into clearly defined strands that provide structure across age levels, with 3 years of material for elementary, junior high and 4 years for High School. HOPE SQUAD' Share the Hope. Save a Life. 22 Revised Jan 2025 o Core Hope Squad Content: Foundational concepts, including team building, the suicide prevention gatekeeper model, and essentials of both peer support and Squad membership. o Suicide Prevention: Comprehensive lessons emphasize mental health literacy and strengthen skills in warning signs identification, the power of protective factors, and connecting peers with appropriate help. o Building Relationships (Elementary)/ Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary): This strand covers peer interactions, communication techniques, empathy, emotional understanding, and fostering positive relationships. In high school, it also includes leadership skills for post -graduation readiness. o Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/ Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): Understanding Ourselves (Elementary) / Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): This strand emphasizes self-awareness and empathy, while also incorporating essential self -care concepts like mindfulness and addressing toxic positivity. o Constructive Choices: Constructive Choices: Guiding students in making positive, responsible decisions, including self -regulation and conflict resolution. This strand also identifies key components of school safety and how to cultivate a safe school community. It teaches students to recognize and support peers who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. o Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/ Developing Resilience (Secondary): Bullying Prevention (Elementary) / Developing Resilience (Secondary): Focusing on kindness and anti -bullying for younger students, advancing to resilience and coping skills for older students. This includes learning how to manage stress, adapt to change, and bounce back from setbacks, as well as techniques for maintaining a positive outlook and fostering perseverance in the face of challenges. 3. Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. These themes largely center around the program, aligning with lessons, national awareness months, community and parent engagement and more. o Schoolwide activities for all students can include: HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 23 Revised Jan 2025 ■ Posters and Social Media Campaigns: Share information about the monthly theme to encourage participation and reinforce mental health messages. • Lunchtime Engagements and Workshops: Provide informal spaces where students can engage with Hope Squad members, participate in stress -relief activities, or learn more about mental health topics. o Faculty and Staff activities can include: ■ Reflection and celebration in staff meetings: Highlighting the theme of the month starts with staff and faculty as well as focal points on allowing space in meetings to reflect and grow around that month's theme. ■ Peer Observation/Mentorship Programs/Staff Highlights: Give space for staff and faculty to practice the theme of the month directly in order to ensure the theme is interwoven throughout the entire school community. o Parent Engagement includes an email or letter that can be sent to parents that highlights the monthly theme and various activities that parents/guardians can practice with their students to continue the theme at home. Activities can include: ■ Family Communication: Taking the form of reflection/celebration practice around the monthly theme these activities center around bringing the family together through conversation. ■ Family Bonding: Activities are also provided that encourage families working together to embody the theme of the month, be it family game night, kindness boards, family gardens, etc. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 24 Revised Jan 2025 Cover Letter [Dear [Grant Funder's Name], On behalf of [School or District Name], we are requesting funding to implement Hope Squad, a peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a safe and supportive school environment, where mental health literacy is prioritized, and students are empowered to seek help for themselves and their peers. Statement of Need: Our school community, like many others, faces a growing need for mental health support, with limited resources to address these challenges comprehensively. Youth suicide rates are rising, and mental health professionals within schools are often stretched thin. Hope Squad offers a solution by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of the school, identifying peers in crisis and connecting them to trusted adults. Project Description: The Hope Squad program will focus on: • Training Advisors and Students: Using the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, we will equip advisors and student leaders with essential suicide prevention skills. • Reducing Stigma and Increasing Awareness: Through peer -led activities, monthly themes, and events like Hope Week, we aim to create a culture of openness and support around mental health. • Building Positive Relationships: These initiatives will strengthen the fabric of our school community, fostering connections and resilience among students. Goals and Objectives: Our program goals include enhancing suicide prevention literacy, building supportive networks within the school, and promoting school -wide engagement. To achieve these goals, we will: 1. Train advisors and student members in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. 2. Conduct ongoing mental health awareness events, including monthly themes and Hope Week. 3. Establish protocols for crisis identification and referral, ensuring timely support for students in need. Expected Impact: We anticipate that Hope Squad will lead to measurable improvements in student well- being, including increased help -seeking behaviors, reduced stigma around mental health, and stronger school community ties. By embedding these principles into our school culture, we aim to create a sustainable, proactive approach to student mental health. We are excited about the opportunity to bring this life -changing program to [School or District Name]. Thank you for considering our application and for your support in fostering a safer, more connected school community. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 25 Revised Jan 2025 Letter of Support Template Dear [Name or Title], On behalf of [School or District Name], I am writing to express our strong support for the implementation of the Hope Squad program at our school. This peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program is designed to empower students to support their peers, reduce mental health stigma, and promote a positive and inclusive school climate. The Hope Squad program addresses critical mental health needs by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of our school. Through this program, they will learn to identify peers in distress and refer them to trusted adults, providing an essential layer of support in our community. With the growing demand for mental health resources and limited school -based mental health staff, Hope Squad offers a sustainable, impactful solution. Key program elements include: • Advisor and Student Training: Utilizing the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, Hope Squad equips participants with essential skills in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. • School -Wide Engagement: Through monthly themes and events like Hope Week, the program fosters a culture of awareness, openness, and support. • Community Involvement: Hope Squad actively involves parents, community organizations, and local mental health resources to build a comprehensive support network for students. We have seen the positive impact of similar initiatives in other schools and are confident that Hope Squad will significantly enhance our efforts to create a safe and supportive environment for all students. The program's focus on proactive peer engagement and connection aligns perfectly with our school's commitment to student well-being and academic success. We are grateful for your consideration of this funding request, which will enable us to bring this vital program to [School or District Name]. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and their families. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 26 PROGRAM INNOVATION Grant Resource This document is designed to help anyone understand, write, and submit grant applications. Whether you're seeking funding for one Squad or a whole district, this guide provides step-by- step instructions, best practices, and examples to support your application process. By following the guidance in this document, you will be well-equipped to create compelling grant proposals that stand out and secure the funding you need. A quick note about metrics and deliverables: It is important to outline clear and measurable metrics that will demonstrate the success and impact of your Hope Squad. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and deliverables will not only guide your project's implementation but also provide tangible evidence to funders that their investment is yielding positive results. As a reminder, Hope Squad is able to provide some specific data in relation to your school or district, if your Advisors have the students, parents, and admins fill it out. All data will be de - identified before it is sent, ensuring confidentiality and privacy. However, Hope Squad does not claim responsibility for the completion of any grant objectives as you lay them out in your grant document. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. Revised Jan 2025 LearningAbout Grants..................................................................................................................3 Common Inclusions in Grant Applications.................................................................................3 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications......................................................4 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad.........................................5 SampleGrant Timeline.............................................................................................................6 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad.......................................................................7 CoverLetter.............................................................................................................................7 ExecutiveSummary..................................................................................................................7 Statementof Need...................................................................................................................8 ProjectDescription...................................................................................................................9 Summary of Hope Squad Program Components....................................................................9 ProjectGoals.........................................................................................................................11 Objectives..........................................................................................................................11 PhasedImplementation Plan..................................................................................................12 ExpectedOutcomes...............................................................................................................13 Evaluation and Metrics for Success.....................................................................................14 Target Population and Demographics......................................................................................17 SustainabilityPlan..................................................................................................................18 Organizational Background and Capacity................................................................................18 Budget and Justification..........................................................................................................19 GrantAppendices...............................................................................................................20 Additional Supportive Information: ............................................................................................. 22 Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: ................................................................ 22 CoverLetter...........................................................................................................................25 Letterof Support Template......................................................................................................26 2 Revised Jan 2025 Learning About Grants Common Inclusions in Grant Applications 1. Cover Letter: A brief, formal letter introducing the applicant, summarizing the project, and explaining why the funding request aligns with the grantor's mission. 2. Executive Summary: A concise summary of the project, outlining its objectives, expected outcomes, target audience, and the funding request amount. 3. Statement of Need: A section describing the problem or need the project addresses, supported by data, research, and specific evidence of why the issue is important. 4. Project Description: Details about the project, often including: • Goals and Objectives: Clear goals and measurable objectives. • Activities and Timeline: Specific actions planned, and a timeline for implementation. • Methodology: The approach or strategies used to achieve the objectives. 5. Target Population and Demographics: Information about the people or community served, including demographics, location, and unique needs. 6. Evaluation Plan: A plan to assess the project's impact and effectiveness, often outlining metrics, data collection methods, and reporting practices. 7. Sustainability Plan: A description of how the project will continue after the grant period ends, either through other funding sources or ongoing community support. 8. Budget and Justification: A detailed budget with explanations for each expense, demonstrating responsible use of funds and alignment with project goals. 9. Organizational Background and Capacity: Information about the applicant organization's history, mission, past accomplishments, and its capacity to implement the proposed project. 10. Appendices: Additional materials, such as letters of support, resumes of key personnel, charts, data, or other relevant documents to reinforce the proposal. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 3 Revised Jan 2025 Differences Between Federal/Gov't and Private Applications ASPECT Application Process Review Process Funding Requirements and Priorities Compliance and Reporting Budget and Allowable Expenses Match Requirements Timing and Availability FEDERAL/GOV'T GRANTS PRIVATE FOUNDATION GRANTS Highly structured with standardized forms and strict guidelines, usually submitted through government portals like grants.gov. Reviews are rigorous and standardized, with multiple reviewers and specific scoring metrics. The process can be lengthy, with results taking months to release. Often prioritize programs with broad public impact, aligning with policy goals. Require evidence -based programs with specific success metrics. Compliance requirements include detailed financial documentation, regular progress reports, and adherence to federal regulations. Failure to comply can result in loss of funding. Follow strict federal guidelines, exclude indirect costs and prohibited items like lobbying. Be cautious with reimbursement grants, as they often require you to spend money prior to receiving money and may not be suitable for your needs. Often require matching funds from the applicant, either cash or in -kind, to show investment. Issued annually with predictable schedules and published notices, helping organizations plan their applications. More flexible with unique guidelines, submitted via email, online forms, or foundation - specific portals, often starting with Letters of Inquiry (LOls). Reviews vary from informal to structured, often involving board members or advisors. Timelines are typically shorter than for government grants. Focus on the founders' or board's interests, often funding innovative or niche projects not fitting federal criteria. Reporting often focuses on project outcomes with more flexibility and less intensive financial scrutiny. Typically offer more flexibility in allowable expenses, including areas like capacity building or indirect costs. Rarely require matching funds but may prefer evidence of other funding for project sustainability. Lack regular deadlines, often operating on a rolling basis or offering funds periodically. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 4 Revised Jan 2025 Steps to Take When Considering Grants to Support Your Hope Squad To maximize success, schools or districts should approach grant applications strategically. Here's a step-by-step guide to choosing the right grant and applying successfully: 1. Identifying Needs and Objectives • Assess Program Needs: Determine the specific needs that a grant would address (e.g., mental health programming, curriculum updates, technology upgrades). • Define Objectives: Outline clear, measurable objectives to address those needs. 2. Research Potential Grants • Compare Federal vs. Private Grants: Choose which type suits your project best. • Matching Criteria: Ensure the grant's goals align with your objectives. • Funding and Restrictions: Consider the needed funding and allowed expenses. 3. Assess Readiness and Resources • Capacity to Manage the Grant: Determine if the school has the personnel and systems to manage the grant effectively. • Gather Supporting Data: Collect relevant data to support the application. • Confirm Stakeholder Support: Get buy -in from key stakeholders. 4. Draft a Timeline and Team for the Grant Application Process • Identify Key Personnel: Assign a grant team with relevant expertise. • Set a Timeline: Create a realistic timeline for preparing, writing, and submitting the application. • Budget Planning: Start drafting a budget that matches grant requirements. 5. Writing the Grant Application • Review the grant's guidelines in detail and complete each section thoroughly. • Clearly explain why the program is necessary, detail goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. • Provide a clear, itemized budget with justifications and describe how you'll assess the program success. • Ensure the application is clear, well -organized, and free of errors. 6. Submit the Application and Follow Up • Double -Check Requirements: Confirm that all required documents are included. • Submit Early and Follow Up: Confirm receipt and inquire about the decision timeline. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 5 Revised Jan 2025 Sample Grant Timeline This timeline assumes a 12-week period leading up to the grant submission deadline, though you can adjust it based on specific grant requirements and internal timelines. Week 1-2: Identify project needs: collaborate with stakeholders, set goals. Research preparation grants, check eligibility. Hold stakeholder meeting: confirm alignment, assign and roles. Set timeline: form team, assign roles, and set deadlines. planning Week 3-4: Gather Supporting Data: Collect statistics, research findings, program Data successes, community needs, and student demographics Collection Draft Program Description: Begin drafting the project narrative by focusing on and the goals, objectives, activities, and timelines. Identify and outline potential Drafting measurable outcomes. Budget Planning: Collaborate with the finance team to create an initial budget that outlines all projected costs, including training, materials, staffing, and evaluation expenses. Week 5-6: Statement of Need: Use collected data to explain why the project is vital for Writing the your school or district. Application Refine Project Description and Objectives: Detail each objective and activity, aligning them with the grant's goals. Specify timelines, roles, and required resources. Budget Justification: Finalize the budget and justify each expense, ensuring they align with grant guidelines. Evaluation Plan: Outline how to assess the project's success, including metrics, data collection methods, and reporting requirements. Week 7-8: Internal Review: Share the application draft with team members and Review and stakeholders for review and feedback. Ensure alignment with the school. Focus Revise on clarity, conciseness, and alignment with the grantor's objectives. Proofread: Check grammar, formatting, and consistency. Ensure compliance with the application's guidelines. Week 9-10: Prepare Required Attachments: Compile required supporting documents, Finalization such as letters of support, resumes, organizational charts, and tax status and documentation. Approval Administrative Approval: Present the final draft to school administrators or district leadership for approval. Gather necessary signatures from authorized personnel (e.g., superintendent, principal, finance officer). Week 11: Double -Check Requirements: Review the application checklist to ensure all Submission components are included and complete. Preparation Submission Platform Review: Confirm familiarity with the grant's submission process (e.g., online portal, email, or mail). Prepare digital copies in the required formats. Submit Application Early: Aim to submit the application a few days before the deadline to allow for technical issues or last-minute changes. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 0 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Application Sample Content for Hope Squad Cover Letter Purpose: Introduce the school or district, outline the need for suicide prevention, and explain why Hope Squad is the ideal solution. • Sample Content: At [school or district name], we aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for all our students. Currently, we are identifying several mental health and school safety issues that need to be addressed. These include [increased levels of stress and anxiety among students, as well as concerns about bullying and emergency preparedness.] To tackle these issues, we have [implemented several measures. Our initiatives include enhancing our school's counseling services, organizing workshops on mental health awareness, and establishing clear protocols for handling emergencies and bullying incidents.] We are committed to continuously improving our approach to ensure the well-being and safety of our school community. • On behalf of [School or District Name], we are seeking funding to implement Hope Squad, an evidence -based, peer -led suicide prevention program. This program helps students identify and support peers in crisis, fostering a safe, stigma -free school environment. It encourages students to recognize warning signs and provides them with resources for support. Feedback from administrators shows that Hope Squad contributes to a positive school culture, and we would like to join the thousands of schools and 43 states that currently have this program in place. • Hope Squad equips students with essential skills to manage daily stress, promotes emotional literacy, leadership, safety, and actively discourages drug use. Additionally, it addresses the dangers of social media, educating students on recognizing risks like cyberbullying and the impact on mental health. Executive Summary Overview: Summarize the project's main goals, the intended impact, and the funding amount requested. • Sample Content: "[School or District Name] requests [amount] to launch Hope Squad in [number of schools]. This initiative will support student -led mental health advocacy, reduce suicide stigma, and foster a supportive school climate. Funds will enable advisor training, student resources, and engagement activities, impacting [estimated number] students and their families." HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 7 Revised Jan 2025 • Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [specify grade levels, e.g., 6-12], offering a structured curriculum and ongoing peer support. This funding will allow us to train advisors, engage students, and run awareness events, including the school -wide Hope Week. Through Hope Squad, our goal is to create a culture of connection, resilience, and hope within our school. Statement of Need Problem Description: Highlight the need for youth mental health support and suicide prevention in your school or district, referencing local or national statistics if possible. • Sample Content: Youth suicide rates are rising nationwide, with many students facing mental health challenges without adequate support. In our community, [insert relevant local statistics or insights, e.g., recent mental health statistics for the area or challenges specific to the student population]. Schools play a crucial role in addressing these needs by creating environments where students feel safe and supported. • Despite these needs, our school currently lacks a structured, peer -led mental health program that directly addresses suicide prevention. Research and feedback from schools with Hope Squad programs indicate its effectiveness in reducing stigma, increasing student connectedness, and providing students with the resources they need to help each other. Implementing Hope Squad in [School or District Name] will address this critical gap and create a foundation for sustainable mental health support. • Supporting Points: o Youth mental health needs are rising nationwide, with suicide prevention a top priority in school settings. o Many school staff and administrators report needing more resources, training, and consistent opportunities for student engagement to fully realize Hope Squad's potential. o Include any crisis referral data or mental health screener data you may already have for your school, district or county. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 8 Revised Jan 2025 Project Description This project aims to implement the Hope Squad program at [School Name] to create a peer -led suicide prevention initiative. The program empowers students to identify signs of distress in their peers and connect them with trusted adults. By training students —Hope Squad Members —and certified advisors, it fosters a supportive environment for mental wellness. Squad Members act as additional eyes and ears, observing signs of distress and reporting them, rather than serving as counselors. Hope Squad offers a comprehensive gatekeeper model reinforced through various lessons. It includes experiential learning, confidence building, mental health literacy, and self -care knowledge for students. Squad Members are selected by their classmates as peers they trust and would approach to talk to. These selected members are then screened by adults, approved for participation by their parents, and introduced to Hope Squad through a series of meetings and events. Trained Advisors (school personnel managing the Squad) have streamlined access to program resources through a virtual portal, complete with direct links to lesson materials, monthly activity toolkits, and a Hope Week Toolkit. Advisors can quickly access content, reducing preparation time and helping them focus on meaningful interactions with students. The lessons imparted during Hope Squad meetings are actively implemented within the broader school community through the efforts of individual members, monthly themes, and school -wide events and activities. The initiatives of Hope Squad are integrated into the daily school environment in a manner that avoids adding extra burden or distracting from educational objectives. This approach ensures that support is nurtured not only within the school but also extends into students' homes and the wider community. Summary of Hope Squad Program Components A more detailed description of the following information is available in the "Additional Supportive Information" section of this document, however the highlights listed here may be beneficial to additional questions in the Project section of a grant application. • HOPE Approach: A foundational lesson that teaches suicide prevention, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. • Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: The elementary curriculum introduces key skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness, laying the groundwork for students' mental wellness and future learning. Many lessons use books to promote reading literacy and social -emotional development while HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life 9 Revised Jan 2025 emphasizing the importance of identifying and informing trusted adults about peers in need. o Secondary: Junior high/high school students annually learn to identify warning signs and follow referral protocols. The program covers relationships, self -care, leadership, empathy, resilience, and coping skills, with flexible lesson formats. It emphasizes experiential learning and includes activities for the school community and families. Lesson Strands (Structured topics spanning age levels with years of material) • Core Hope Squad Content • Suicide Prevention • Building Relationships (Elementary)/Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary) • Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/Cultivating Empathy (Secondary) • Constructive Choices • Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/Developing Resilience (Secondary) Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. • Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. Parent and Community Involvement • Ongoing Parent Education: Regular information for parents to educate them on mental health topics and how to support their children. • Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local mental health organizations, community leaders, and businesses to provide additional resources and support for students and families. • Regular Feedback and Improvement: Collecting feedback from students, parents, and educators to continually improve the program and ensure it meets the community's needs. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 10 Revised Jan 2025 Project Goals Goals are broad, overarching outcomes that the program aims to achieve over time. They define the ultimate impact of implementing the Hope Squad program. Enhance Suicide Prevention Literacy and Stigma Reduction: Foster a culture of mental health awareness where students feel empowered to openly discuss mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. 2. Strengthen School Safety and Support Networks: Create a supportive environment where students, through their training as Hope Squad members, act as the "eyes and ears" of the school, recognizing peers in crisis and connecting them with trusted adults. 3. Promote School -Wide Engagement and Community Building: Encourage positive relationships and a sense of belonging through school -wide events such as Hope Week and monthly awareness campaigns. Objectives Objectives are specific, measurable actions that support the achievement of the program's goals. They outline what will be accomplished within the grant period. 1. Train Advisors and Students in Suicide Prevention: Conduct [X number] of HOPE Approach training sessions for advisors and student members, equipping them with gatekeeping skills to identify and refer peers in distress. 2. Increase Peer -Led Engagement in Suicide Prevention Efforts: Implement [X number] of peer -led mental health awareness activities and workshops, increasing participation and reinforcing suicide prevention literacy among the student body. 3. Facilitate Regular Mental Health Awareness Events: Organize and execute monthly themes and events, including Hope Week, to promote consistent engagement and education around mental wellness. 4. Enhance Crisis Identification and Referral: Establish a clear protocol for Hope Squad members to report concerns to trained advisors, aiming for [specific metric, e.g.,100% of reported cases receiving appropriate follow-up]. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 11 Revised Jan 2025 Phased Implementation Plan Phase 1: Program Setup and Advisor Training (Months 1-2) • Advisor Selection: Select school staff to serve as Hope Squad advisors, ensuring they have a strong interest in student mental health and well-being. Advisors will be responsible for guiding students, facilitating discussions, and organizing events. • Advisor Training: Advisors will undergo an estimated 6 hours of comprehensive training in the HOPE Approach, program implementation guidance, skills -based practice on how to lead discussions on mental health, manage student questions, and support squad members. Advisors also learn how to utilize Hope Squad's online portal for resources and program guidance through a series of microlessons available on demand. • Baseline Data Collection: Collect initial data to assess the current mental health climate, student connectedness, and awareness levels related to mental health and suicide. This may include surveys, attendance records, and input from counselors and administration. Phase 2: Student Selection and Training (Months 2-3) • Student Nominations and Selection: Identify and nominate students based on their trustworthiness, empathy, and leadership qualities. Teachers, counselors, and peers may contribute nominations to ensure diverse representation within the Hope Squad. • HOPE Approach Training for Students: Once selected, Hope Squad members will participate in training sessions to learn the HOPE Approach. Training topics will include recognizing mental health warning signs, handling sensitive conversations, and understanding when to refer peers to adults. • Program Introduction to School Community: Host an informational event to introduce Hope Squad to the broader school community, explaining the program's purpose, how students can engage with squad members, and the availability of support resources. Phase 3: Program Activation and Initial Engagement (Months 3-6) • Monthly Hope Squad Meetings: Begin regular meetings with Hope Squad members to discuss mental health topics, practice skills learned during training, and plan school -wide activities. Meetings will also provide a safe space for members to share their experiences and receive support. • Hope Week Planning and Execution: Organize Hope Week as a major event to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention across the school. Activities may include guest speakers, workshops, and peer -led activities that promote inclusion and empathy. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 12 Revised Jan 2025 • Monthly Awareness Themes: Implement monthly themes focused on mental health awareness, resilience, and support strategies. Themes may include "Kindness and Inclusion," "Self -Care and Wellness," and "Building Connections," with activities aligned to each theme. Phase 4: Evaluation and Continuous Improvement (Ongoing, with Quarterly Checkpoints) • Ongoing Feedback Collection: Gather ongoing feedback from Hope Squad members, advisors, and the school community. Feedback will inform adjustments to the program and help address any emerging needs or challenges. • Data Tracking and Progress Reporting: Track key metrics such as referrals made, advisor and student satisfaction, participation in Hope Week, and attendance at monthly meetings. Quarterly reports will be prepared for internal review and grant reporting. End -of -Year Assessment and Review: Conduct a comprehensive assessment at the end of the school year, reviewing data to evaluate the program's effectiveness in improving mental health awareness, student connectedness, and help -seeking behaviors. Use this data to make program improvements for the following year. Expected Outcomes Upon successful implementation, [School Name] will develop a proactive and sustainable peer - to -peer suicide prevention program that emphasizes collaboration among student leaders and is underpinned by strong school faculty and staff support. Hope Squad aims to cultivate an inclusive and empathetic environment that empowers students to address mental health challenges effectively while providing resilient support to their peers and the broader school community. The program incorporates structured components to achieve these goals, including training sessions and interactive activities tailored to enhance students' and staff's efforts in suicide prevention. These adaptable lesson formats will allow for continuous mental health education and gatekeeper skill development, particularly equipping students with the tools to identify and address mental health concerns within themselves and among their classmates. Moreover, the Hope Squad program will actively engage the selected Squad members and the entire school population, promoting a culture of openness and understanding surrounding mental health. By fostering strong connections and proactive support systems, this initiative will encourage students to seek help and support each other in overcoming personal challenges. Ultimately, [School Name] aspires to create a healthier school environment where every student feels valued, understood, and equipped to contribute positively to their mental well-being and that of others, and believes Hope Squad will help [School Name] achieve this aim. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 13 Revised Jan 2025 Evaluation and Metrics for Success Approach: Measure success through both quantitative (e.g., referral rates, engagement levels) and qualitative (e.g., advisor and member feedback) metrics at multiple time points. Note for Your Grant Writing Team: While Hope Squad supports school data collection by providing access to de -identified results from students, advisors, and parents, Hope Squad is not responsible for achieving your grant outcomes as specified in your grant application. The pre - and post -survey data collection is solely dependent on whether Advisors administer the surveys or [school/district] opts -out of collection. Data is only shared with those having a school domain address and doesn't capture identifying information. If you have questions, or need assistance, email our research team at research@hopesquad.com Sample: "We will evaluate the program's impact through both quantitative and qualitative measures collected at multiple time points. Pre-, mid-, and post -program surveys will assess changes in mental health literacy, stigma reduction, and help -seeking behaviors among students. Additionally, we will collect data on referral rates, engagement levels in peer -led activities, and participation in events like Hope Week. Qualitative feedback from advisors, Hope Squad members, and other stakeholders will be gathered regularly through interviews, focus groups, and written reflections. This will help us understand program challenges, successes, and opportunities for improvement. By evaluating progress throughout the program and not just at the end, we aim to ensure continuous growth, timely adjustments, and sustained impact." Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Increased Mental Health Awareness: Measure changes in student understanding of mental health concepts (e.g., suicide prevention skills and gatekeeper knowledge), as reflected in pre- and post -program surveys. Student Help -Seeking Behavior: Track the number of students referred to counselors by Hope Squad members and the frequency of peer -to -peer support interactions. Program Engagement and Visibility: Monitor participation in Hope Week and monthly awareness events, as well as feedback from school -wide surveys on program visibility and impact. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 14 Revised Jan 2025 Data Collection Methods: Member Pre- and Post -Surveys: Administer surveys at the beginning and end of the school year to measure changes in the following outcomes. Suggested Target: 75% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Elementary Measured Outcomes: - Bullying Resistance - Enjoyment - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy - Self -care Awareness - Stress Secondary Measured Outcomes: - Compassion Fatigue - Compassion Satisfaction - Gatekeeper Knowledge - Suicide Prevention Knowledge & Skills - Peer Support Engagement - Peer Support Willingness - Referral Efficacy Stakeholder Pre- and Post -Surveys: Hope Squad school administrators, advisors, and parents are encouraged to complete provided surveys at the beginning and end of each academic year. Results from these surveys can speak to whether and how stakeholders believe Hope Squad has impacted the school environment and overall satisfaction with the program. Suggested Target: 50% of active members complete the pre/post-survey Mental Health Referral Forms (MHRF): These forms are designed to capture instances of mental concerns among any student within a school - not just Hope Squad members. The data collected is indicative of how members' learnings (e.g., addressing mental health stigma, willingness to engage in help -seeking behaviors, etc.) and schoolwide activities permeate throughout the student body. Moreover, the MHRF can capture how a student was referred to a trusted adult, the nature of the student's mental health concern, relevant adverse events, and what resources were provided to the student. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 15 Revised Jan 2025 Suggested Target: Report the total number of MHRF collected as well as the number or ratio) of referrals provided by Hope Squad members versus students in the general population. Additional metrics of potential interest are student demographics, the nature of each concern (e.g., suicidal ideation with intent to harm oneself versus suicidal ideation without intent to harm oneself), and the frequency of each type of follow-up resource provided to students in need. Additional Metrics for Schools to Consider Collecting Independently: Advisor and Member Reports: Collect feedback from advisors and Hope Squad members after each major event to assess engagement, program challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Collect the number of members trained. Quarterly Reports: Generate quarterly reports to continuously assess the program's impact on student connectedness, awareness, and safety. Stigma Reduction: If wanting to report specifically on stigma reduction, we recommend using a validated survey instrument, such as the Stigma of Suicide Scale (SOSS-SF). Hope Squad's previous research (2022) has used this scale. School Wide Changes: Schoolwide Student Survey Pre -Hope Squad formation and Post implementation would greatly enhance the evidence of impact. If you do choose this measure, Hope Squad would love to know about your findings! HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 16 Revised Jan 2025 Target Population and Demographics • Description: Describe the student population the program will serve, including demographic details and any specific community needs. • Demographics: Hope Squad programming is designed to serve students in grades 4 through 12, with the opportunity to impact students from kindergarten through their senior year of high school. The program specifically targets students who might otherwise lack access to mental health resources, equipping them with tools to support one another. Hope Squad prioritizes literacy, accessibility, and cultural relevance. Research suggests that larger teams of peer supporters AND those that are representative of the student body can result in a better diffusion of suicide prevention program's messaging in schools (Pickering et al., 2018; 2022). • Sample: Hope Squad will serve approximately [number of students] in grades [6-12, etc.] across [specify school or district area, e.g., rural/suburban/urban settings]. Many students face barriers to mental health care, and peer -led support can be a powerful first step in addressing these challenges. The program will prioritize inclusivity and support students from diverse backgrounds, including those in underserved communities who may lack access to mental health resources. Member Demographics collected via Hope Squad: • Age (Birth Month/Year) • Grade Level • Gender Identity • Racial/Ethnic Identity • State • School Name HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 17 Revised Jan 2025 Sustainability Plan • Strategy: Funding will address critical needs for training and program materials, empowering advisors to maintain the program effectively. By establishing a sustainable model that includes a student council, trained advisors, and maintaining continuity with members who serve on the squad year after year, the team operates efficiently. • Long -Term Plan: Secure sustainable funding through school budgets and community partnerships, with continued collaboration with mental health organizations • Sample: This funding will provide the resources needed to establish Hope Squad and support its initial implementation. Our goal is to sustain the program through continued collaboration with school counselors, community mental health organizations, district -level funding, partnerships with mental health or healthcare organizations or national funding through Title IV or Title I. We will integrate Hope Squad activities into our school's yearly calendar to ensure its longevity. At an estimated expense of $6.00 per student*, this program remains affordable year over year. By building relationships and a culture of support, we anticipate that the program will grow and remain a vital part of our school's mental health resources. Organizational Background and Capacity • School or District Background: Describe the school's commitment to student well- being and previous mental health initiatives. • Capacity to Implement Program: Highlight existing mental health resources (e.g., counselors, school psychologists) that will support Hope Squad. Sample: [School or District Name] has a long-standing commitment to student well-being, previously implementing [mention any relevant programs or initiatives, e.g., anti -bullying campaigns, mental health awareness events]. Our counseling and administrative teams have the experience needed to support Hope Squad's implementation, and we have strong relationships with local mental health organizations that will reinforce the program's goals. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 18 Revised Jan 2025 Budget and Justification • Itemized Budget: o Training and Resources: Fund Certified Advisor training for a minimum of 2 advisors per school, 2 seats to Advisor Gatekeeper training (QPR, LivingWorks Start) as well as any resources or stipends needed. o Community Engagement and Awareness: Provide for Hope Week and monthly mental health awareness activities to promote school -wide support and reduce stigma. o Implementation Support: Allocate funds for materials, scheduling support, and resources that facilitate regular, impactful Hope Squad meetings. • Justification: Each item in the budget directly addresses areas identified by advisors and administrators, fostering program sustainability and a positive impact on school climate. Sample: Item Description Amount Training for Advisors Certified Advisor and Gatekeeper training $[X] Advisor Stipend Supporting additional time Advisors provide $[X] Program Materials Awareness materials and activity guides $[X] Hope Week Activities Resources and promotional materials for events $[X] Monthly Awareness Materials for ongoing student engagement $[X] Events Evaluation Tools Survey tools, data collection, and analysis $[X] support i16 Justification: These expenses will directly support program implementation, including comprehensive training, materials for student and community engagement, and evaluation to ensure the program's impact is measured and understood. This budget has been designed based on identified needs from existing Hope Squad programs and feedback from advisors and administrators. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 19 Revised Jan 2025 Grant Appendices • Letters of Support: From school administrators, community leaders, and mental health professionals who advocate for the Hope Squad program. (See template) • Program Evaluation Data: In reviewing MHRF data from the 2023-24 academic year to present, 95% of referrals were made by non -Hope Squad members. This demonstrates that Hope Squad's programming extends its impact beyond its members, fostering school -wide awareness of resources and encouraging help -seeking behaviors. The data highlights how the program creates a culture of care, equipping the entire school community with the knowledge and confidence to take action when someone may be struggling. • Advisor and Administrator Feedback Excerpts: Quotes from Hope Squad stakeholders in the 2024-2024 academic year that emphasizes the program's positive impact. For instance: o Administrator: "Hope Squad has been a positive connection and reinforcement of our school -wide message of 'All Are Welcome Here'. It has been a great peer to peer program and allows for positive school culture that promotes a sense of belonging." o Advisor: "The most important benefit Hope Squad brings to our school is encouraging and promoting a school climate of kindness and friendship. Hope Squad members connect with students from every level on campus and encourages positive relationships where kiddos have more connectedness and feeling of belonging across the grade levels." o Parent: "Learning about how to help his peers identify when they might need some help has strengthened my son's ability to identify that same thing in himself. His self-awareness has grown as he's helped others grow. He's always been a very compassionate and empathetic kid, and this has only increased with his participation. He loves the community Hope Squad provides and was excited to participate in every meeting and feels like he's making a difference." • Testimonials: From students and advisors who've experienced the benefits of Hope Squad, demonstrating the program's life-saving potential and its role in building a positive school culture. For instance: o "Hope Squad has taught me the importance of inclusivity and compassion as many students can feel isolated and unseen. I now know that every day interactions can help make a connection that positively impacts others" - (Hope Squad Member Abigail W.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 20 Revised Jan 2025 o "Hope Squad helps me connect to my community because [it] has encouraged me to make more friends and attend events and build connections with people that otherwise, I'm not sure I would have made. I feel as though because of Hope Squad, I'm close to a big portion of my school/peers." (Hope Squad Member: Lily L.) o 1 have loved being a part of Hope Squad. I have always been aware of mental health issues and the signs but actually being trained to deal with them has helped me learn a lot more. I feel more secure and comfortable knowing that I will be able to notice the warning signs and know how to deal with the situation accordingly. I also enjoy going to our meetings for our lessons. I have truly learned a lot and feel that I have become a better person because of Hope Squad." (Hope Squad Member, Asma M.) o "Being a part of Hope Squad has been an incredibly profound and meaningful experience for me. It has allowed me to gain invaluable insights and learnings, which have helped me develop my emotional intelligence and hone my problem - solving abilities. These skills have not only enabled me to support my fellow high school students, but they have also fundamentally changed the way I approach helping others." (Hope Squad Member: Saahithi P.) o "The most meaningful thing about Hope Squad tome is being able to educate the student body at my school. Many people do not know what mental health is or even how to take care of their own wellbeing. Hope Squad presents an opportunity to create a positive atmosphere in your school." (Hope Squad Member, Reagan G.) HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 21 Revised Jan 2025 Additional Supportive Information, Additional Information about Hope Squad Program: Program Components 1. Integrated Gatekeeper Model - HOPE Approach • At the core of Hope Squad is the HOPE Approach, a foundational lesson that builds essential suicide prevention competencies, including understanding protective factors, recognizing warning signs, and connecting peers with trusted adults. HOPE Approach content is spiraled throughout lessons to continue building knowledge and practicing critical skills in identification and referral. 2. Age -Specific Elements: o Elementary: Designed for younger students, the elementary curriculum introduces essential skills in resilience, relationship -building, bullying prevention, and self-awareness. This foundational framework supports mental wellness and prepares students for more advanced concepts as they progress. Many of these lessons are based on popular books, promoting both reading literacy and social -emotional development. Identifying students who are experiencing difficulties is not only important, but it is also the centerpiece of the program. Informing a trusted adult is the recommended course of action for students. o Secondary: Each year, junior high and high school students learn to identify warning signs, address distress or suicide, and follow referral protocols for timely intervention. This 3-lesson framework is repeated annually to ensure competency. Hope Squad then offers lessons on relationships, self -care, leadership, compassion, mindfulness, empathy, resilience, and coping skills. Advisors can choose from a set number of lessons each year, with new material available for 3 to 4 years. Squads can use both full-length (]-hour) and mini -lesson (under 30 minutes) formats, adapting to different schedules while covering critical concepts. The program emphasizes experiential learning and includes optional activities for the school community and families in each lesson. 3. Program Lesson Strands (Topics) The lessons have been organized into clearly defined strands that provide structure across age levels, with 3 years of material for elementary, junior high and 4 years for High School. HOPE SQUAD' Share the Hope. Save a Life. 22 Revised Jan 2025 o Core Hope Squad Content: Foundational concepts, including team building, the suicide prevention gatekeeper model, and essentials of both peer support and Squad membership. o Suicide Prevention: Comprehensive lessons emphasize mental health literacy and strengthen skills in warning signs identification, the power of protective factors, and connecting peers with appropriate help. o Building Relationships (Elementary)/ Developing Emotional Intelligence (Secondary): This strand covers peer interactions, communication techniques, empathy, emotional understanding, and fostering positive relationships. In high school, it also includes leadership skills for post -graduation readiness. o Understanding Ourselves (Elementary)/ Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): Understanding Ourselves (Elementary) / Cultivating Empathy (Secondary): This strand emphasizes self-awareness and empathy, while also incorporating essential self -care concepts like mindfulness and addressing toxic positivity. o Constructive Choices: Constructive Choices: Guiding students in making positive, responsible decisions, including self -regulation and conflict resolution. This strand also identifies key components of school safety and how to cultivate a safe school community. It teaches students to recognize and support peers who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. o Bullying Prevention (Elementary)/ Developing Resilience (Secondary): Bullying Prevention (Elementary) / Developing Resilience (Secondary): Focusing on kindness and anti -bullying for younger students, advancing to resilience and coping skills for older students. This includes learning how to manage stress, adapt to change, and bounce back from setbacks, as well as techniques for maintaining a positive outlook and fostering perseverance in the face of challenges. 3. Program Activities and Community Engagement • Hope Week: A central program event that raises school -wide awareness and reduces stigma. Hope Week activities include workshops, mental health speakers, schoolwide kindness activities, and awareness campaigns, fostering a unified approach to mental health. Monthly Mental Health Themes: Each month, Hope Squad will focus on a theme to engage the squad, students, faculty, families and community. These themes largely center around the program, aligning with lessons, national awareness months, community and parent engagement and more. o Schoolwide activities for all students can include: HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 23 Revised Jan 2025 ■ Posters and Social Media Campaigns: Share information about the monthly theme to encourage participation and reinforce mental health messages. • Lunchtime Engagements and Workshops: Provide informal spaces where students can engage with Hope Squad members, participate in stress -relief activities, or learn more about mental health topics. o Faculty and Staff activities can include: ■ Reflection and celebration in staff meetings: Highlighting the theme of the month starts with staff and faculty as well as focal points on allowing space in meetings to reflect and grow around that month's theme. ■ Peer Observation/Mentorship Programs/Staff Highlights: Give space for staff and faculty to practice the theme of the month directly in order to ensure the theme is interwoven throughout the entire school community. o Parent Engagement includes an email or letter that can be sent to parents that highlights the monthly theme and various activities that parents/guardians can practice with their students to continue the theme at home. Activities can include: ■ Family Communication: Taking the form of reflection/celebration practice around the monthly theme these activities center around bringing the family together through conversation. ■ Family Bonding: Activities are also provided that encourage families working together to embody the theme of the month, be it family game night, kindness boards, family gardens, etc. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 24 Revised Jan 2025 Cover Letter [Dear [Grant Funder's Name], On behalf of [School or District Name], we are requesting funding to implement Hope Squad, a peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a safe and supportive school environment, where mental health literacy is prioritized, and students are empowered to seek help for themselves and their peers. Statement of Need: Our school community, like many others, faces a growing need for mental health support, with limited resources to address these challenges comprehensively. Youth suicide rates are rising, and mental health professionals within schools are often stretched thin. Hope Squad offers a solution by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of the school, identifying peers in crisis and connecting them to trusted adults. Project Description: The Hope Squad program will focus on: • Training Advisors and Students: Using the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, we will equip advisors and student leaders with essential suicide prevention skills. • Reducing Stigma and Increasing Awareness: Through peer -led activities, monthly themes, and events like Hope Week, we aim to create a culture of openness and support around mental health. • Building Positive Relationships: These initiatives will strengthen the fabric of our school community, fostering connections and resilience among students. Goals and Objectives: Our program goals include enhancing suicide prevention literacy, building supportive networks within the school, and promoting school -wide engagement. To achieve these goals, we will: 1. Train advisors and student members in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. 2. Conduct ongoing mental health awareness events, including monthly themes and Hope Week. 3. Establish protocols for crisis identification and referral, ensuring timely support for students in need. Expected Impact: We anticipate that Hope Squad will lead to measurable improvements in student well- being, including increased help -seeking behaviors, reduced stigma around mental health, and stronger school community ties. By embedding these principles into our school culture, we aim to create a sustainable, proactive approach to student mental health. We are excited about the opportunity to bring this life -changing program to [School or District Name]. Thank you for considering our application and for your support in fostering a safer, more connected school community. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 25 Revised Jan 2025 Letter of Support Template Dear [Name or Title], On behalf of [School or District Name], I am writing to express our strong support for the implementation of the Hope Squad program at our school. This peer -led, evidence -based suicide prevention program is designed to empower students to support their peers, reduce mental health stigma, and promote a positive and inclusive school climate. The Hope Squad program addresses critical mental health needs by training students to serve as the "eyes and ears" of our school. Through this program, they will learn to identify peers in distress and refer them to trusted adults, providing an essential layer of support in our community. With the growing demand for mental health resources and limited school -based mental health staff, Hope Squad offers a sustainable, impactful solution. Key program elements include: • Advisor and Student Training: Utilizing the HOPE Approach gatekeeping model, Hope Squad equips participants with essential skills in suicide prevention and mental health literacy. • School -Wide Engagement: Through monthly themes and events like Hope Week, the program fosters a culture of awareness, openness, and support. • Community Involvement: Hope Squad actively involves parents, community organizations, and local mental health resources to build a comprehensive support network for students. We have seen the positive impact of similar initiatives in other schools and are confident that Hope Squad will significantly enhance our efforts to create a safe and supportive environment for all students. The program's focus on proactive peer engagement and connection aligns perfectly with our school's commitment to student well-being and academic success. We are grateful for your consideration of this funding request, which will enable us to bring this vital program to [School or District Name]. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and their families. HOPE SQUAD" Share the Hope. Save a Life. 26 0 s V kA N O N LLP3 Lf1 a` N 2H N m cr a) CL O y V � a, Q.� Ln O a) 0- V ly a V O L CL T IA L c � O v + N v i 0o Q ai o v c A Ln '' Ln `~ O c o `" o O a U LA OU o �� U- M M a { Ln O N N > L Q O O +' i � V _ LnLn .v > s O Ln + Ln N L N O LA LA Q N U [6 Ln 4-1 IA u Ln 0 Ln o U c OLn O >; V p u Ln kn c U- U 4J M N a N N C = O (U O Q O c 4 Ln O " o a vn c vi E O 'M v� Q +� p Ln - j M Q N G� -M OJ N i O O �_ O • u v � O U moo Ln v B O N u O M N _� V v 0 0 C — C3) p D IA4J .� C •— E o R N O i p Q) /H y/ Q j U L Q N 0- .O Q O .0 - a + o vNi Q) N ULn m U •� i O c (U W O a1 p v) ca O a o �N0Q� M ON M N Ln N Q Oft i a _ u 41 'j R LJ i Q Ln ii- U M N a - Q O N ® 0 � _ Ra�caa 4J Ol U O s a L• L 0 O LM O 4- 41 tA ma Mhd tA O 40 m O r^a CL �O V_ . i 4*0 tA O O V •- o i } o :3 LA p >1-0 o Q = v� O o o %A u E W ._ a E .� vi L CL O co iA vi cB N o u a� Ln Q v � cv u cB � CT O N L O 14— i o -0 N _ V L ru Q � Q L V1 o G � ? 4- Ln Q = C� C O = � � O LA i Ln ec'04-Q _ O E ECO-) :E Ln a, oC o-, — a� v L 44 NNNZI E x W 40 C: N C V E o _0 � N 40 Q a) �O N N > 40 0 C7 V � LMvi O i .0 L O ° Ion .� o 0 � L oL. a, O C O O > v Q O Q ��_11 n O aJ E M o O v) LL o � o O pC _ L�-� v o o IA D o p o Q p Q in i a) Lff i f ` ca 40p O aJ m' 1/1 � rn ca O> m Q% Z� �, L rn l/) a) 40 vi .� yf W N O c6 M t a� a) o O OfA 0 N F7 O V �' Vn cn o +L o _ a) Q a, Q>O� a o N o o Cj ow VI V I U Q LL w H Q 0 0 cn w U.j 0 U D V) 2 A w Q 0 w 0 w Z 0 V) Q V) NJ 010 cx w m 0 z i a z i a Cie LU Oe U :E N m ,U N V N � Z QO r) oQ �o LLz 0 LU WO 0 V aW uCie aW z� a uz �w WW Q N w Z 0 c) V w LL w OFA O V) F- U w LL LL w z 0 a N w Q 0 Z 0 W< H �I Ti Q U O N lip Q V) F- LL w Z w m J Q Z W H 0 CL w J Q V O N 0 LL N J Q Z W 0 d a v O N Z O N 0 N W Cie N 0 NJ V z Nd V Nf LU J 0 0 a z z 0 4A LU w CL ui 0 0 z a LU G H z NJ ui w V N LL 0 z 0 H a V 0 N N a Z C0 G N a C%• CL V! Z 0 H a J W ce U.j Z LU F— Z Y V) Oe J J D m De W m c 01 N Z (D �Aklq 9 T V w H a z w ry a z w ry "�r"r1)t Z W J 0 2 N Q 2 3 cv 2 H 3 J W W d N Q N w 0 Q 2 9 eA U-i Ce cy- Ce 0 Ce Cl- TV AILAI V) U- LU z U-i ca 0 Ce Cl- LU Ce V) LU -7— a I ui w CL U) Z i Rawl o Mill ,mill 1- t m w 0 a a z V) W J V) LL V) LU 0 Z Z J Q LU V) > w LU Z F-Q Z� J �- Q U.j LU _ _ I J Lu a Z LU Q < AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY MAY 2, 2016 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE-2015-16 REGULAR SESSION House Resolution No. 28 Introduced by Assembly Members Dababneh and Calderon (Coauthors: Assembly Members Achadjian, Alejo, Travis Allen, Arambula, Atkins, Baker, Bigelow, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brough, Brown, Burke, Campos, Chang, Chau, Chavez, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dahle, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Gray, Hadley, Harper, Holden, Irwin, Jones, Jones -Sawyer, Kim, Lackey, Levine, Linder, Lopez, Low, Maienschein, Mathis, Mayes, McCarty, Medina, Melendez, Mullin, Nazarian, Obernolte, O'Donnell, Olsen, Quirk, Rendon, Rodriguez, Salas, Santiago, Steinorth, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Wagner, Waldron, Weber, Wilk, and Wood) July 15, 2015 House Resolution No. 28—Relative to humane education. 1 WHEREAS, Sections 233.5 (part of the Hate Violence 2 Prevention Act) and 60042 of the Education Code require 3 instruction in kindergarten and grades 1 to 12, inclusive, to promote 4 and encourage kindness to pets and humane treatment of animals; 5 and 6 WHEREAS, The States of Florida, Illinois, Maine, New Jersey, 7 Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wisconsin have adopted 8 humane education laws similar to California's; and 9 WHEREAS, Numerous academic studies have established a 10 correlation between animal cruelty during childhood and 11 interpersonal violence in adulthood; and 98 HR28 —2- 1 WHEREAS, Law enforcement agencies in major cities such as 2 Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles have acknowledged this 3 correlation and formed special enforcement units to combat animal 4 cruelty; and 5 WHEREAS, Humane education, such as that involving wildlife, 6 the animals' place in the overall environment, and the negative 7 impacts humans can have on them, including death and extinction, 8 can disrupt the cycle of animal and human abuse by decreasing a 9 child's potential to be abusive or neglectful toward animals and, 10 consequently, to promote prosocial behavior toward humans; and 11 WHEREAS, Humane education programs seek to prevent 12 violence by teaching empathy, compassion, and respect for all 13 living beings and help children develop into caring, responsible 14 citizens; and 15 WHEREAS, Reputable nonprofit organizations are working to 16 implement humane education programs through in -classroom 17 presentations, teacher training, and the provision of relevant 18 resources, and these organizations could assist California schools 19 in complying with the Education Code's humane education 20 provisions without burdening school budgets; and 21 WHEREAS, The experiences of these nonprofit organizations, 22 as well as other teachers or organizations that have conducted pilot 23 humane education efforts, provide evidence that student knowledge 24 and positive perceptions of animals is not as commonplace as it 25 should be; and 26 WHEREAS, Deficiencies in children's understanding of the 27 role animals have in the economy of nature and in people's lives 28 contribute to a proliferation in the number of wild and domestic 29 animals that are suffering from cruelty, abandonment, high animal 30 shelter euthanasia rates, and, in extreme circumstances, extinction; 31 and 32 WHEREAS, Schools and school districts are undertaking steps 33 to rectify these deficiencies by promoting humane education and 34 implementing it in classrooms; now, therefore, be it 35 Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, That 36 compliance with Education Code provisions should include 37 educating students on the principles of kindness and respect for 38 animals and observance of laws, regulations, and policies pertaining 39 to the humane treatment of animals, including wildlife and its 40 environment; and be it further 98 -3— HR28 1 Resolved, That actions such as implementing statewide or 2 districtwide "humane education days" and involving nonprofit 3 organizations in humane education activities with local faculty 4 and school administrators be considered for inclusion in compliance 5 efforts; and be it further 6 Resolved, That the Superintendent of Public Instruction be 7 encouraged to ensure the incorporation of humane education in 8 the core curriculum; and be it further 9 Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies 10 of this resolution to the State Senate, the Superintendent of Public 11 Instruction, the State Board of Education, the State Department of 12 Education, and the author for appropriate distribution. U 98 SCREENAGERS UNDER THE Parent handout to continue the conversation `In our technology revolution, the amount of exposure teens have to substances via shows, ads, social media, and so forth is unprecedented. Mental health issues and substance use are linked, and teens need opportunities to gain skills to handle challenging emotions and discuss issues related to substances. Screenagers Under The Influence provides exactly that. This film, along with the two other Screenagers films, offers a way for youth and adults to discuss issues and solutions. Moreover, we believe that establishing a routine of weekly short talks to discuss the positives and risks of our tech revolution, including substance -related topics, is vital. That's why we are in our 7th year of Tech Talk Tuesdays, the free Screenagers Blog that has helped thousands of families have productive conversations. We hope you'll join us." — Co -directors Delaney Ruston, MD, and Lisa Tabb VAPING It is good to refer to vapes as e-cigarettes because that is what they are. • 90% of smokers start before 18. • Flavors and high nicotine concentrations are banned in most countries, but not the US. • One vape pen has as much nicotine as a whole pack of cigarettes. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways in which industries like e-cigarettes, alcohol, cannabis, and others target youth. If you discover that your child is vaping or using other substances, limit how much you talk about your concerns. The goal is to maintain connection, and over -discussing our worries strains the relationship. ALCOHOL A common belief is that there are ways to teach young people to drink responsibly. People also believe that teens want to drink because it is forbidden. However, research argues against these beliefs. For example: • In France, where the drinking age is lower, 15-year-olds report binge drinking 3 times more than in the US. • Studies show that allowing teens to drink socially at home predicts increased drinking in college. Parenting Tips: Data shows that when parents have conversations with their kids about why they do not want them to drink, youth are more likely to make healthier choices. Also, when teens feel safe talking with parents about issues related to use (i.e., they believe they won't be shamed or harshly punished), this correlates with better overall outcomes for teens. Walking the line between not being overly permissive while remaining approachable takes ongoing work, and often seeking advice from others, such as counselors or other parents, is essential. CANNABIS • Higher THC concentrations are linked to an increased risk of frequent use and brain changes. • Dr. Yasmin Hurd found visible changes in the neurons of rats that were exposed three times a week to cannabis during their adolescence compared to rats that were not exposed. • MRls of human teen brains show concerning changes in cortical thickness in weed users vs. non -users. Parenting Tips: The goal is not to try and control our kids but to help kids understand the risks of illicit substances. Weed is illegal for anyone under 21. Talk about emerging science. FENTANYL A deadly epidemic involving this highly -dangerous synthetic drug is happening right now. Given the risk that any non -prescribed pill or powder can be laced with fentanyl, these must never be taken. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways Fentanyl is reaching youth, why one pill can kill, and the importance of Narcan. VISIT SCREENAGERSMOVIE.COM for more tips and resources and to sign up for the Screenagers Blog! *For references on the data cited above, please email info@screenagersmovie.com MORE RESOURCES FROM SCREENAGERS TECH TALK TUESDAYS �� ' NEER Access a library of over 4S0 blogs from Screenagers' TECH TALK TUESDAY9to filmmaker Dr. Delaney Ruston, containing a wealth of information and advice for families. Sign up to a receive this every Tuesday via email. www.screenagersmovie.com/blog THE SCREENAGERS PODCAST Join Dr. Ruston and guests every 2 weeks for the Screenagers Podcast, where they explore in more • • •AN detail the topics of our movies - Screen Time, Mental Health, Substances and much more. www.screenagersmovie.com/podcast BOOK - PARENTING IN THE SCREEN AGE 7 Written to help parent have calmer and more productive conversations with youth about tech kv and its impact upon their health, happiness and I' development. Read a free preview of the book at: ' �AGulde fnr www.screenagersmovie.com/book SCREENAGERS ON YOUTUBE We publish new videos every week, featuring the experts from our movies, giving new and valuable parenting advice that wasn't in our movies, along with other resources. youtube.com/@Screenagers_Movie () SCREENAGERSMOVIE q SCREENAGERSMOVIES www.screenagersmovie.com SCREENAGERS UNDER THE Parent handout to continue the conversation `In our technology revolution, the amount of exposure teens have to substances via shows, ads, social media, and so forth is unprecedented. Mental health issues and substance use are linked, and teens need opportunities to gain skills to handle challenging emotions and discuss issues related to substances. Screenagers Under The Influence provides exactly that. This film, along with the two other Screenagers films, offers a way for youth and adults to discuss issues and solutions. Moreover, we believe that establishing a routine of weekly short talks to discuss the positives and risks of our tech revolution, including substance -related topics, is vital. That's why we are in our 7th year of Tech Talk Tuesdays, the free Screenagers Blog that has helped thousands of families have productive conversations. We hope you'll join us." — Co -directors Delaney Ruston, MD, and Lisa Tabb VAPING It is good to refer to vapes as e-cigarettes because that is what they are. • 90% of smokers start before 18. • Flavors and high nicotine concentrations are banned in most countries, but not the US. • One vape pen has as much nicotine as a whole pack of cigarettes. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways in which industries like e-cigarettes, alcohol, cannabis, and others target youth. If you discover that your child is vaping or using other substances, limit how much you talk about your concerns. The goal is to maintain connection, and over -discussing our worries strains the relationship. ALCOHOL A common belief is that there are ways to teach young people to drink responsibly. People also believe that teens want to drink because it is forbidden. However, research argues against these beliefs. For example: • In France, where the drinking age is lower, 15-year-olds report binge drinking 3 times more than in the US. • Studies show that allowing teens to drink socially at home predicts increased drinking in college. Parenting Tips: Data shows that when parents have conversations with their kids about why they do not want them to drink, youth are more likely to make healthier choices. Also, when teens feel safe talking with parents about issues related to use (i.e., they believe they won't be shamed or harshly punished), this correlates with better overall outcomes for teens. Walking the line between not being overly permissive while remaining approachable takes ongoing work, and often seeking advice from others, such as counselors or other parents, is essential. CANNABIS • Higher THC concentrations are linked to an increased risk of frequent use and brain changes. • Dr. Yasmin Hurd found visible changes in the neurons of rats that were exposed three times a week to cannabis during their adolescence compared to rats that were not exposed. • MRls of human teen brains show concerning changes in cortical thickness in weed users vs. non -users. Parenting Tips: The goal is not to try and control our kids but to help kids understand the risks of illicit substances. Weed is illegal for anyone under 21. Talk about emerging science. FENTANYL A deadly epidemic involving this highly -dangerous synthetic drug is happening right now. Given the risk that any non -prescribed pill or powder can be laced with fentanyl, these must never be taken. Parenting Tips: Discuss ways Fentanyl is reaching youth, why one pill can kill, and the importance of Narcan. VISIT SCREENAGERSMOVIE.COM for more tips and resources and to sign up for the Screenagers Blog! *For references on the data cited above, please email info@screenagersmovie.com MORE RESOURCES FROM SCREENAGERS TECH TALK TUESDAYS �� ' NEER Access a library of over 4S0 blogs from Screenagers' TECH TALK TUESDAY9to filmmaker Dr. Delaney Ruston, containing a wealth of information and advice for families. Sign up to a receive this every Tuesday via email. www.screenagersmovie.com/blog THE SCREENAGERS PODCAST Join Dr. Ruston and guests every 2 weeks for the Screenagers Podcast, where they explore in more • • •AN detail the topics of our movies - Screen Time, Mental Health, Substances and much more. www.screenagersmovie.com/podcast BOOK - PARENTING IN THE SCREEN AGE 7 Written to help parent have calmer and more productive conversations with youth about tech kv and its impact upon their health, happiness and I' development. Read a free preview of the book at: ' �AGulde fnr www.screenagersmovie.com/book SCREENAGERS ON YOUTUBE We publish new videos every week, featuring the experts from our movies, giving new and valuable parenting advice that wasn't in our movies, along with other resources. youtube.com/@Screenagers_Movie () SCREENAGERSMOVIE q SCREENAGERSMOVIES www.screenagersmovie.com AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY MAY 2, 2016 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE-2015-16 REGULAR SESSION House Resolution No. 28 Introduced by Assembly Members Dababneh and Calderon (Coauthors: Assembly Members Achadjian, Alejo, Travis Allen, Arambula, Atkins, Baker, Bigelow, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brough, Brown, Burke, Campos, Chang, Chau, Chavez, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dahle, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Gray, Hadley, Harper, Holden, Irwin, Jones, Jones -Sawyer, Kim, Lackey, Levine, Linder, Lopez, Low, Maienschein, Mathis, Mayes, McCarty, Medina, Melendez, Mullin, Nazarian, Obernolte, O'Donnell, Olsen, Quirk, Rendon, Rodriguez, Salas, Santiago, Steinorth, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Wagner, Waldron, Weber, Wilk, and Wood) July 15, 2015 House Resolution No. 28—Relative to humane education. 1 WHEREAS, Sections 233.5 (part of the Hate Violence 2 Prevention Act) and 60042 of the Education Code require 3 instruction in kindergarten and grades 1 to 12, inclusive, to promote 4 and encourage kindness to pets and humane treatment of animals; 5 and 6 WHEREAS, The States of Florida, Illinois, Maine, New Jersey, 7 Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wisconsin have adopted 8 humane education laws similar to California's; and 9 WHEREAS, Numerous academic studies have established a 10 correlation between animal cruelty during childhood and 11 interpersonal violence in adulthood; and 98 HR28 —2- 1 WHEREAS, Law enforcement agencies in major cities such as 2 Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles have acknowledged this 3 correlation and formed special enforcement units to combat animal 4 cruelty; and 5 WHEREAS, Humane education, such as that involving wildlife, 6 the animals' place in the overall environment, and the negative 7 impacts humans can have on them, including death and extinction, 8 can disrupt the cycle of animal and human abuse by decreasing a 9 child's potential to be abusive or neglectful toward animals and, 10 consequently, to promote prosocial behavior toward humans; and 11 WHEREAS, Humane education programs seek to prevent 12 violence by teaching empathy, compassion, and respect for all 13 living beings and help children develop into caring, responsible 14 citizens; and 15 WHEREAS, Reputable nonprofit organizations are working to 16 implement humane education programs through in -classroom 17 presentations, teacher training, and the provision of relevant 18 resources, and these organizations could assist California schools 19 in complying with the Education Code's humane education 20 provisions without burdening school budgets; and 21 WHEREAS, The experiences of these nonprofit organizations, 22 as well as other teachers or organizations that have conducted pilot 23 humane education efforts, provide evidence that student knowledge 24 and positive perceptions of animals is not as commonplace as it 25 should be; and 26 WHEREAS, Deficiencies in children's understanding of the 27 role animals have in the economy of nature and in people's lives 28 contribute to a proliferation in the number of wild and domestic 29 animals that are suffering from cruelty, abandonment, high animal 30 shelter euthanasia rates, and, in extreme circumstances, extinction; 31 and 32 WHEREAS, Schools and school districts are undertaking steps 33 to rectify these deficiencies by promoting humane education and 34 implementing it in classrooms; now, therefore, be it 35 Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, That 36 compliance with Education Code provisions should include 37 educating students on the principles of kindness and respect for 38 animals and observance of laws, regulations, and policies pertaining 39 to the humane treatment of animals, including wildlife and its 40 environment; and be it further 98 -3— HR28 1 Resolved, That actions such as implementing statewide or 2 districtwide "humane education days" and involving nonprofit 3 organizations in humane education activities with local faculty 4 and school administrators be considered for inclusion in compliance 5 efforts; and be it further 6 Resolved, That the Superintendent of Public Instruction be 7 encouraged to ensure the incorporation of humane education in 8 the core curriculum; and be it further 9 Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies 10 of this resolution to the State Senate, the Superintendent of Public 11 Instruction, the State Board of Education, the State Department of 12 Education, and the author for appropriate distribution. U 98 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. Ili LEGISLATIVE INFORMATION Home Bill Information California Law Publications Other Resources My Subscriptions My Favorites SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. (2019-2020) SHARE THIS: Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 73 CHAPTER 158 Relative to Blue Light Awareness Day. [ Filed with Secretary of State September 19, 2019. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SCR 73, Pan. Blue Light Awareness Day. This measure would designate October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California. Fiscal Committee: no WHEREAS, There are over 80 million electronic devices with digital screens in the State of California; and WHEREAS, Screen time viewing with electronic devices exceeds over nine hours per day; and WHEREAS, The increased usage of, and access to, digital devices by young children and adolescents is an acute area of concern, as ophthalmologists, optometrists, and medical researchers continue to learn more about the short-term effects of increasing and cumulative exposure to artificial blue light on the developing human eye and mental health at a young age, along with long-term potential cumulative effects on adult eye health and mental development; and WHEREAS, The scientific community and recent studies have identified growing concerns over potential long- term eye and health impacts for all age groups from digital screen usage and cumulative blue light exposure emitted from digital devices; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been reported to cause visual discomfort in 65 percent of Americans; and WHEREAS, Blue light has been associated with possible harmful effects on retinal cell physiology linked to the high-energy, short wavelength in the narrow range of 415-455 nanometers; and WHEREAS, Cumulative blue light exposure from digital devices has been shown to disrupt sleep cycles by suppressing the natural release of melatonin and has also been linked to premature aging of the retina, which could accelerate potential long-term vision problems such as age -related macular degeneration, decreased alertness, and memory and emotional regulation impacts; and WHEREAS, Screen time can take a toll on vision health and comfort, leading to symptoms of digital eye strain and dry, irritated eyes; and https:Hlegi nfo.legislatu re.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 1 /2 7/6/25, 5:12 PM Bill Text - SCR-73 Blue Light Awareness Day. WHEREAS, Given the growing body of research around the breadth and scope of potential eye and systemic health impacts related to blue light exposure, the State of California encourages citizens, particularly children, to consider taking protective safety measures in reducing eye exposure to high-energy visible blue light; now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates October 10 of each year as Blue Light Awareness Day in California; and be it further Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution. https:Hleginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtmI?bill_id=201920200SCR73 2/2 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ This copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. Distribution and use of this material are governed by our Subscriber Agreement and by copyright law. For non -personal use or to order multiple copies, please contact Dow Jones Reprints at 1-800-843-0008 or visit www.djreprints.com. https://www.wsi.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5 Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. Educators question whether the rapid shift toward more technology has benefited learning By Sara Randazzo Follow , Matt Barnum Follow and Julie Jargon Follow Jan. 22, 2025 9 00 pm ET Class time has become screen time in American schools. Kindergartners now watch math lessons on YouTube, counting aloud with the videos. Middle- schoolers complete writing drills on Chromebooks while sneaking in play of an online game. High- schoolers mark up Google Docs to finish group projects. The rapid tech transformation amounts to a grand experiment playing out in American schools. Accelerated by pandemic -era online learning, the move has happened with little debate, conflicting research and high stakes for the nation's children. Educators wonder whether the digitization of the classroom has really benefited learning —or if it's done kids a disservice. Some teachers say online tools help create more engaging lessons and provide personalized instruction. Others say the screen -heavy approach has distracted students and burned out teachers. "Covid really shifted things toward, `Oh, we can do this,"' said Stephanie Galvani, a middle -school English teacher in suburban Boston. "But we didn't ask: `Should we do this?"' https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 1 /10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students used their school -issued laptops in San Antonio. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The shift runs counter to the prevailing advice from doctors and psychologists to limit tech use. Some frustrated parents are trying to opt their kids out of school technology, with varying degrees of success. Even some students pine for more analog methods. "I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while," said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz, in San Antonio. "It gives you a headache and I really lose my focus." Students in grades one through 12 now spend an average of 98 minutes on school -issued devices during the school day —more than 20% of the average instructional time —according to data that educational software company Lightspeed Systems analyzed at the request of The Wall Street Journal. The time spent on devices peaks at two hours and 24 minutes daily in sixth grade, or nearly 35% of instructional time, Lightspeed's analysis of more than 2.8 million students in 344 school districts nationwide shows. Use of school devices declined among high-school students, down to 70 minutes a day for 12th-graders, with possible factors including a shift to personal devices and more flexible school schedules, according to Lightspeed. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 2/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Average amount of time per day students spend on school -provided devices During school Outside of school GRADE 1 hour Ira 3 0 6 27 7� 2. 8 &j&, 23 Note: Data from January -June 2024; includes 344 districts and 2.8 million students. Source: Lightspeed Systems Fifty percent of teachers said their students completed at least half of their classwork on a device, up from about 20% of teachers before the pandemic, according to a 2023 survey of nearly 1,000 educators conducted by Brian Jacob, an education researcher at the University of Michigan. Use of technology for homework, group work and assessments also dramatically increased. Research on the effectiveness of tech use in education is mixed and full of company -backed analyses. "I don't think there's one easy answer," Jacob said. "I just don't think we know yet." `Paper is better' On an August day in Abby Ramos Stanutz's San Antonio classroom, 25 eighth -graders filed into first -period English and began class as they often do, with several minutes of free writing. The students each grabbed a school -issued Chromebook and began to type. "I know your fingers are getting tired, but keep going," Ramos Stanutz urged, dimming the lights and playing pop music softly to help students focus. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 3/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Students in San Antonio used laptops for a free -writing exercise. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Later in the class, the students turned back to Chromebooks to record influencer -style videos explaining why they liked a book they were reading. Some of Ramos Stanutz's students later explained that while they like the ease of turning in assignments online and using computers for technical skills like coding, the devices create distractions in class and can slow down lessons when the internet goes out or a video a teacher wants to play gets blocked by district software. "I feel like paper is better, anything other than technology," said 14-year-old Carlos Miranda. "I'm hands-on. You can't learn to dissect a frog with a computer." (Education technology companies have, actually, created virtual dissection apps.) Ramos Stanutz said there's no getting rid of technology at this point but she's learned to strike the right balance. She's had to find new strategies to keep students from playing online games or watching videos. "It's like the ocean: You can never turn your back on it," she said. Computer and internet use in schools grew rapidly in the 1990s, alongside technology's rise in everyday life. Schools saw an opportunity to close a digital divide between low-income and wealthier students. The adoption of school technology sped up when the pandemic forced students to learn online. Federal Covid aid helped schools buy students across the country their own laptops or tablets. A multibillion -dollar education -technology industry promised its products could revolutionize teaching and catch students up after the pandemic. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 4/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Abby Ramos Stanutz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ Highline Public Schools in Washington state found itself unintentionally thrust into a pre-internet era this school year when a cyberattack shut down its system for more than a month. Sixth -grade math teacher Rachel Nielsen said she initially panicked at not being able to access the digital curriculum —the only way she'd taught since becoming a teacher in 2019. She soon came to embrace methods like using physical tiles and cubes to teach geometry. Students worked together on presentations using large poster boards. Nielsen found students explained their work better when they had to physically write rather than simply plugging answers into online programs. "We got really bogged down by all the possible things we could use that are digital," Nielsen said. "Now I'm realizing it isn't about more technology or another app." 'I don't like having my eyes glued on a screen for a while,' said eighth -grader Aubrey Ortiz. PHOTO: KAYLEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ `Too good to be true' Research on the use of technology in education remains unsettled. For instance, a review of 24 studies published last year found that college students retain more information when they take notes by hand rather than on a computer. Some research has found students have better comprehension when reading on paper rather than on a screen. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 5/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Other research on specific technology products —including digital tutoring programs —has shown improvements in student learning. Richard Culatta, the head of an association that supports teachers' use of technology, said lessons using technology have to elevate what the teacher could otherwise do to be effective. "Does it spark curiosity? Or is it just presenting information?" Culatta said. "That distinction right there makes it clear pretty quickly whether the tech use is valuable." Some teachers say they find technology essential for assisting students with specific needs, like using instant -translation apps for recently arrived immigrants or software to make fonts more readable for students with dyslexia. Technology companies often tout internal analyses claiming their products have led to breakthrough gains in student learning. But such results are often overstated, and companies may choose not to release unfavorable findings. "It's really hard to move the needle on student achievement, so if you see something that's too good to be true, it probably is," said Betsy Wolf, a researcher who found in a 2020 paper that company - backed studies produced more positive findings than independent evaluations. IXL Learning, the company behind popular digital education platform IXL, touts that schools using the product score as much as 15 to 17 percentile points higher on state exams. Students in Ramos Stanutz's English class. PHOTO: KAY LEE GREENLEE FOR WSJ The most rigorous published evaluation of the product —which is used by 15 million U.S. students was less impressive. A Johns Hopkins University research center report, commissioned by the company, found that IXL had no clear effect on state math scores during the spring of 2023 in a https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 6/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Michigan school district. On a different test, IXL boosted math scores by about five percentile points, the researchers found. In a separate, unpublished Johns Hopkins study —a summary of which was reviewed by the Journal —the effects of IXL were described as "directionally positive" but "not statistically significant." The company chose not to release the study, a spokesman said, because it had a relatively small sample size. Bo Bashkov, senior manager of research at IXL Learning, said the company's figures of 15 to 17 percentile points are "better -case scenario" benchmarks from its own state -by -state research. Removing barriers In lower -income districts, school leaders say giving students and their families access to personal devices has been a huge benefit. Computer access is now nearly universal in U.S. public schools, with 95% of schools reporting that they provided devices to students last school year, according to a federal survey. "It has removed barriers," said Pamela Maddox, the principal of Compton Early College High School, a high -performing school in a district serving majority Latino and Black students. Parents tell her they like that students can easily access their homework from anywhere. The school has doubled down on technology, moving its library into a smaller room to make way for a high-tech lab funded by Verizon, equipped with a podcasting room, robotics equipment, 3-D printer and esports stations. On a walk through campus in September, Maddox entered an Advanced Placement English class taught by Porsja Dyer. There, students sitting with Chromebooks typed out reflections on factors that have shaped their identity. Their responses were instantly shared with the entire class. "And yes, I turned the hearts on so you can like each other's work today," Dyer said. At one table, students looked up from their screens to say they liked using technology in class because they can find information and write responses more quickly and it makes life easier. Reducing technology Many parents are content with the growth of educational technology. In one survey from 2023, commissioned by the nonprofit EdChoice, about three in four parents said that computer use was having a positive effect on their child's learning. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 7/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Still, about 40% of parents said their children spent too much time on screens. In a separate EdChoice poll, 35% of teenagers said their school used too much technology. I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education; said Andrea Davis, a mother of five. PHOTO: KRISTINA BARKER FOR WSJ "For parents who want to reduce screen time, schools are undercutting them," said Jonathan Haid a social psychologist at New York University's Stern School of Business whose recent book, "The Anxious Generation," helped fuel smartphone bans in schools across the country. Mileva Repasky, a mother of three in Phoenixville, Pa., who co-founded the nonprofit Phone -Free Schools Movement, had her children track their school and home screen use for two weeks at the Journal's request. One Wednesday in October, her 17-year-old son, David, spent nearly 2 /z hours on his school -issued Chromebook doing work at school and an additional 70 minutes doing homework on his Chromebook. That was on top of the 42 minutes at lunch watching TikTok and Netflix on his phone that day and 80 minutes at home gaming or looking at Instagram. Total screen time: more than 5 /2 hours. He said he learns better when taking notes on paper and that he'd like it if classmates would talk to each other more during lunch. His mom said she had no idea David was spending so much time on his laptop for school. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 8/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ Amount of time at school Mileva Repasky's children spent on school -provided devices Madelyn • 11 YEARS OLD • 5TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 5 min. SCHOOL DAY TUESDAY 1 hour 5 min. i9�ft�st�ts ,�� 00, Katie • 13 YEARS OLD • 7TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 30 min. TUESDAY 1 hour David • 17 YEARS OLD • 11TH GRADE MONDAY 1 hour 27 min. ut�11i'� TUESDAY Note: Data for Oct. 28-Nov.1, 2024 Source: Mileva Repasky 1 hour I' WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 40 min. 1 hour 5 min. 55 min. WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 1 hour 18 min. 1 hour 15 min. 1 hour 31 min. �Ql�9ii 1��1ti�ulr , h�1Pum� 9iJ1 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 2 hours 22 min. 2 hours 2 hours 30 min. SS IIl)l� l 444i}� Ity� ;(4sss� "The entire day is filled with technology," said David, a junior at a private high school. "We use our computers from first period to eighth period, and even at lunch there's no socializing because everyone is on their phones playing games." Repasky's nonprofit and other advocacy groups have helped usher in a wave of cellphone bans at the school -district and state level in recent years, though enforcement is often a challenge and phones are still pervasive on many campuses. Mom of five Andrea Davis wasn't happy with the prevalence of technology in her local public school district in Hood River, Ore. "I think we were all sold a lie that this was going to completely revolutionize education," she said. Davis, who runs a business that helps families reduce screen time, worked with the district to organize student and community meetings and presented a formal plan on how to reduce https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 9/10 9/15/25, 6:14 PM Screens Have Taken Over Classrooms. Even Students Have Had Enough. - WSJ technology use. This school year, the middle-schoolers aren't bringing school -issued iPads home with them, and the district is making sure every tech application is educationally sound. School leaders didn't take up other recommendations, like banning YouTube and eliminating iPads in early -grade classrooms. "There's this misconception that we've let the cat out of the bag," Davis said. "But no, this is an opportunity we have now." Write to Sara Randazzo at sara.randazzo@wsj.com, Matt Barnum at matt.barnum@wsj.com and Julie Jargon at Julie.Jargon@wsj.com Appeared in the January 24, 2025, print edition as 'Screens Are Taking Over In American Classrooms https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/schools-phone-screens-technology-research-c268bda5?st=GSgPbi&reflink=article_email_share 10/10 �. ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH RESOLUTION ADDRESSING SOCIAL MEDIA USE, SCREEN TIME, AND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH WHEREAS, according to a recent survey one-third of all teens report being online and using social media platforms "almost constantly";' and WHEREAS, a 2023 U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory warned that while social media may offer benefits, there is growing evidence of risks to youth mental health including anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of sleep;2 and WHEREAS, studies have found correlations between time spent on social media and mental health including one study that found risk of anxiety and depression doubled in youth that spent more than three hours daily on social media;3 and WHEREAS, adolescence represents a critical time in the brain development and studies have reported social media may result in addictive behavior, decreased attention span, and lower test scores-4.5.6 and WHEREAS, growing reports suggest social media can expose youth to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and heavily edited comparisons that can lead to eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, and suicidal ideation,-6 and WHEREAS, evidence -based strategies to reduce the risks of social media include implementing device -free school policies, setting screen -time limits at home, avoiding screens before bedtime, and educating families about the psychological effects of social media,67,8 and WHEREAS, time spent on social media and screens decreases time for exercise, sleep, in -person time with friends, and other activities that are thought to improve mental health and healthy social development (for youth and adults).2,3,4,5,6 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED on this 26th day of March 2025, that we the Orange County Board of Health: 1. Recognize social media use among youth as a significant public health concern and mental health risk. 2. Recommend parents and caregivers establish screen -time limits for their children/teens, particularly restricting device use on school nights and before bedtime, to promote healthy sleep habits. 3. Urge parents to consider delaying getting their children smartphones and exploring pledges with other parents like the "Wait Until 8th" initiative.9 4. Encourage parents and young people to explore the resources listed below to further understand the impact of digital technology on youth development. 5. Support "Away for the Day" policies in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools that restrict personal device use during school hours to support focus and well-being. 6. Suggest Orange County school districts or the county explore joining ongoing class action lawsuits against social media companies, with the goals of funding additional mental health services for youth and/or requiring social media companies to improve their age verification and parental controls.10 7. Support the countywide adoption of "Screen -Free Week" during May 5-11, 2025, as observed by Chapel Hill- Carrboro City Schools and encourage parents and children of the county to participate.', 8. Support statewide legislation, such as Senate Bill 55, that would join NC with other states in requiring school districts to have policies around use of cellphones during the day and nationwide legislation that would require social media companies to have more effective age/parental consent verification. 12.13 9. Support educational efforts that inform families, schools, and policymakers about the risks of social media use and the importance of digital wellness. Alison Stuebe, MD, MSc 4QintaLna Stewart, MPA Chair, Orange County Board of Health Orange County Health Director 919 245 2405 > 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, NC 27278 > orangecountync.gov Page 1 of 2 ORANGE COUNT`' HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: 1. Sidoti, Michelle Faverio and Olivia. "Teens, Social Media and Technology 2024." Pew Research Center (blog), December 12, 2024. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/12/12/teens-social-media-and- technology-2024/. 2. U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health (2023). https://www. hhs.gov/su rgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth-mental-health/social-media/index. html 3. Riehm KE, Feder KA, Tormohlen KN, Crum RM, Young AS, Green KM, Pacek LR, La Flair LN, Mojtabai R. "Associations Between Time Spent Using Social Media and Internalizing and Externalizing Problems Among US Youth." JAMA Psychiatry. 2019 Dec 1;76(12):1266-1273. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.2325. https:// pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6739732/ 4. Lissak, Gadi. "Adverse Physiological and Psychological Effects of Screen Time on Children and Adolescents: Literature Review and Case Study." Environmental Research 164 (July 2018): 149-57. https://doi.org/10.1016/m.envres.2018.01.015. 5. Twenge, Jean. iGen: Why Today's Super -Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy --and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood --and What That Means for the Rest of Us. (2017). 6. Haidt, Jonathan. The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness. (2024). 7. Muppalla, Sudheer Kumar, Sravya Vuppalapati, Apeksha Reddy Pulliahgaru, and Himabindu Sreenivasulu. "Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development: An Updated Review and Strategies for Management." Cureus 15, no. 6 (June 2023): e40608. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40608. 8. American Psychological Association, "Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence" (2023). https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use 9. Wait Until 8th. "Wait Until 8th." Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.waituntil8th.org."Wait Until 8th" Campaign, www.waituntil8th.org. 10. Scofield, Sydnee. "Wake County school board joins lawsuit against social media giants." ABC 11 News, February 20, 2024. Accessed March 20, 2025. https://abcl l .com/social-media-lawsuit-wake-county-schools- board-of-education/14450653/ 11. Screen -Free Week. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://screenfree.org/about/ 12. "NC Senate Bill 55, Student Use of Wireless Communication Devices." NC General Assembly. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncleg.gov/BilILookUp/2025/S55 13. "Social Media and Children 2024 Legislation." National Conference of State Legislatures.Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.ncsl.org/technology-and-communication/social-media-and-children-2024-legislation. Scan this QR code with your phone or go to https://drive.googIe.com/file/d/16BIFTyyRehshQKjldeMP19k5JZIzL05G/view?usp=sharing to access live resource links 919 245 2405 300 West Tryon Street Hillsborough, INC 27278 orangecountync.gov Page 2 of 2 GRANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Improving health. Inspiring change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Libbie Hough Communications Manager and Public Information Officer Office: 919-245-2562; Cell: (hough@orangecountync.gov Orange County Board of Health Champions Youth Mental Health with Resolution on Screen Time HILLSBOROUGH, NC (April 29, 2025) — In recognition of growing concerns over the effects of excessive screen time and social media use on youth mental health, the Orange County Board of Health unanimously approved a resolution aimed at promoting healthier screen habits among children and adolescents. Timed to coincide with Screen -Free Week (May 5-11, 2025), a national celebration that encourages children, families, schools, and communities to enjoy life beyond screens, the resolution highlights the urgent need for local action. Research cited in the resolution, including findings from the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association, underscores the association between excessive screen use and rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among youth. The Orange County Board of Health calls on families, schools, and community organizations to promote balanced technology use and encourages participation in Screen -Free Week activities. The resolution also urges policymakers to support education, advocacy, and community initiatives that help children develop healthier relationships with digital technology. To read the full resolution, visit the Board of Health's webpage. Dr. Amy Fowler, pediatrician, member of the Orange County Board of Health, and Board of County Commissioners emphasized the importance of the resolution: "Many kids I see are spending too much time on screens and it is taking time away from more productive activities like sleep, outdoor play, and engagement with friends and family. As we see screen time increase, we are also seeing its impacts on mental health." Orange County residents are invited to take part in Screen -Free Week events and activities. For more information about Screen -Free Week, visit screenfree.org. The Orange County Health Department exists to enhance quality of life, promote the health, and preserve the environment for everyone in Orange County. For information about the Health Department visit OrangeCountyNC.Gov/Health 300 West Tryon Street I Hillsborough, NC 1 919-245-2400 1 Ora ngeCountyNC.Gov/Health 0401 Gmail It's A Wrap - September 11 Board of Education Meeting 2 messages Laguna Beach Unified <info-Ibusd.org@shared1.ccsend.com> Reply -To: info@lbusd.org To: Craig A Durfey Fri, Sep 12, 2025 at 4:33 PM It's A Wrap News from Laguna Beach Unified School District, its teachers, students, staff and Board of Education. September 12, 2025 2025-26 OPENING OF SCHOOLS RE Jason Glass, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools September 11, 2025 LAGUNAGEACH Laguna Beach Unified School District reports on enrollment, student outcomes, and campus upgrades Laguna Beach Unified School District opened the 2025-26 school year with 2,333 students enrolled across its preschool, two elementary schools, middle school, and high school. Superintendent Jason Glass, Ed.D., and leadership staff presented the Opening of Schools Report, highlighting college and career outcomes for the Class of 2025, summer learning opportunities, and early learning readiness programs. The report also spotlighted new student -driven nutrition services, staff professional development, and the addition of 29 new hires, including support for transitional kindergarten expansion. Facility upgrades included stadium improvements at Laguna Beach High School, a new kindergarten restroom at El Morro Elementary, and modernized restrooms at Thurston Middle School. Safety enhancements such as a new visitor management system, upgraded video surveillance, and wildlife fencing were also completed before the start of the school year. View the report Board advances Laguna Beach High School pool modernization project At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education approved advertising for bids to modernize the Laguna Beach High School pool facilities. The $25.1 million project includes demolition, structural upgrades, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, landscaping, and a complete rebuild of the pool deck and support areas. Construction is scheduled from June 2026 to May 2027 to limit disruption, with athletic programs displaced for one school year. Funding for the project will be drawn from the district's cash accounts and capital improvement funds, which currently total over $56M. The district may also be eligible for up to $6.7 million in state Proposition 2 funding once project plans are approved and contracts awarded. Learn more Join the conversation: LBUSD Town Halls with the Board updates policy on student mobile device use The Board of Education conducted a second reading of BP 5131.8, Mobile Communication Devices, which updates district policy to align with state law and best practices. The revisions clarify grade -level expectations for device use and emphasize the role of families in supporting healthy technology habits at home. LBUSD supports balanced technology use with new resolution The Board of Education adopted a resolution (no. 25-20) to support efforts to optimize student screen time and reduce excessive use of digital devices. The resolution calls for districtwide guidelines, professional development, family partnerships, and annual progress reports to ensure technology use is purposeful, age -appropriate, and balanced with offline learning. Read the full re, Superintendent LBUSD is hosting a series of Town Halls, both in person at each school site and virtually, to provide families and community members an opportunity to share feedback directly with the superintendent. The conversations will focus on what the district should continue, what may need to change, and new opportunities to consider. All Town Halls are open to anyone, regardless of school affiliation. Families and community members are encouraged to attend the session most convenient for them. O Time: 6-7:30 p.m. Dates & Locations: • September 16, El Morro Elementary MPR • September 28, REGISTER for the Virtual Town Hall (Sunday) • September 30, Thurston Middle School Library Two LBHS seniors named semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit® Scholarship Program Board reviews proposed update to Bylaw 9223 on filling vacancies At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education conducted a first reading of Board Bylaw 9223, which outlines conditions under which a trustee's seat may be declared vacant. The proposed change would remove a locally added exception for absences due to illness of an immediate family member, to align the bylaw with state law (Government Code 1770(g); Education Code 5090). The Board directed the superintendent to refer the policy for legal review, including consideration of a local exception for board absences that would align with the statute on vacancies. Board adopts revisions to Bylaw 9310 on board policies At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education approved revisions to Board Bylaw 9310, which governs how district policies and bylaws are developed, reviewed, and adopted. The action followed an Aug. 14 first reading, when trustees reviewed drafts and voted unanimously to refer the proposed changes to legal counsel for review. Since then, the superintendent incorporated counsel's edits, invited trustee feedback, and considered community input before presenting a single annotated draft for adoption. The updates Two Laguna Beach High School seniors, Estella Newton and Zoe Tran, have been named semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®). They now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for 6,930 National Merit Scholarships, collectively worth nearly $26 million, which will be awarded in the spring of 2026. Read more Board forms ad hoc committee to expand arts engagement At its Sept. 11 meeting, the Board of Education approved the formation of a new Ad Hoc Board Committee for the Arts to support community engagement in arts education. The 15-member committee will be co-chaired by Board President Dee Perry and Board Member Sheri Morgan, and will include additional board appointees, community members selected through an application process, and individuals recruited to ensure broad representation and equity. Learn more �Oo)-DTu- Tin Tins clarify that policies must advance equity and ensure nondiscriminatory access, and streamline procedures for policy suspension to maintain alignment with state law and governance best practices. Finally, the revisions require a second reading of all bylaw changes before adoption to allow time for deliberation and public input. Watch the Board Meeting Laguna Beach Unified School District The next regularly scheduled board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. Visit Ibusd.org/board for more information. vvaten Mere Laguna Beach Unified 1 550 Blumont St I Laguna Beach, CA 92651 US Unsubscribe I Update Profile I Constant Contact Data Notice Constant �' Contact Try email marketing for free today! Craig A Durfey To: Craig A Durfey Nick Dibs [Quoted text hidden] Sat, Sep 13, 2025 at 9:12 AM Agenda Item Details Meeting Sep 11, 2025 - REGULAR MEETING - BUSINESS MEETING - REVISED SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 9:55 A.M. AND 3:00 P.M. Category 11. ACTION ITEMS - TECHNOLOGY Subject A. Approval of Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time Type Action Fiscal Impact No Recommended Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Action Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Public Comment via electronic submission may be submitted no later than Thursday, September 11, 2025, by 12:00 p.m. via the following link: Public Comment Form September 11, 2025 Background Staff will present the Board with Resolution No. 25-20, which supports efforts to optimize computer screen time and reduce excessive computer screen time. Laguna Beach Unified School District has been studying student technology use closely and has identified trends showing increases in daily screen exposure. While digital tools play an important role in instruction and help meet state standards, staff have also raised concerns about the potential effects of excessive screen use on student health, attention, and engagement. This resolution reinforces the district's commitment to ensuring technology use is both purposeful and developmentally appropriate. The resolution outlines the district's intent to review instructional practices, create districtwide guidelines for age - appropriate use, and provide professional development for staff to balance technology integration with hands-on and face-to-face learning. It also emphasizes partnering with families to support healthy use of devices at home and monitoring data to guide decisions. By adopting this resolution, the Board affirms its commitment to supporting student well-being, fostering responsible digital citizenship, and maintaining a balance between the benefits of technology and the importance of offline learning experiences Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time - Google Docs.pdf (73 KB) Motion & Voting Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-20 Supporting Efforts to Optimize Computer Screen Time and Reduce Excessive Computer Screen Time. Motion by Joan Malczewski, second by Sheri Morgan. Final Resolution: Motion Carried Yes: Jim Kelly, Joan Malczewski, Dee Perry, Sheri Morgan, Howard Hills Date: 3/7/2026 5:35:19 PM From: To Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fw: What's more important than saving children? 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: Sent: Saturday, March 7, 20265:29 PM To: 'Craig A Durfey' 'Maureen Blackmun' I Subject: What's more importantthan savingchildren? (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SOCIALEMOTIO NAL PAWS.CO M FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. https:/Iwww.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org To whom it may concern. What's more important than saving children? From chat rooms. https://www.facebook.com/reel/l 259853759431328/ Date: 3/7/2026 7:22:26 PM Front To Subject: [EXTERNAL] These Might Be the Most Dangerous Apps For Kids 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. 03-07-2026 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 M���SO FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsdlwwwaovinfo.gov/content/pka/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org To whom it may concern These Might Be the Most Dangerous Apps For Kids https://wwv.facebook.com/reel/l 652980689171872/ Date: 3/8/2026 7:48:00 PM Front To Subject: [EXTERNAL] Is social media fueling youth mental health crisis? 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. Craig Durfey Click the link: 1Apsl/ps.soceco.uciedu/news/social media -fueling -youth nental-health-crisis Date: 3/10/2026 7:45:46 AM From To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Bvd: Song for Charlie March Newsletter 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 Song for Charlie <realtalkna= songforcharlie.org> Date: Tue, Mar 10, 2026 at 6:08 AM Subject: So for Charlie March Newsletter To: Song for Charlie Monthly Newsletter March 2026 Dear Friends, Parents told us theywanted our information in a format they could fit into their busy lives. So we made our first audio series and it's live now. We also made a middle school version of our Real Talk About Fake Pills program, got La Estrella into eight film festivals —and National Fentanyl Awareness Day is less than two months away. A lot happened this month. La Estrella Hits the Festival Circuit Phoenix is one of eight film festivals screening La Estrella soon. La Estrella, our Spanish -language short film by and for Latino communities, has been selected for screening at eight film festivals — from Cleveland to Phoenix to Portugal, including the Mexican - American Film & Television Festival in Los Angeles. Each screening puts our message in front of families and young people who might never encounter a school assembly or prevention pamphlet. That's exactly the point. New: The New Drug Talk Audio Series Free on all major podcast platforms. In about 50 minutes, you'll get the facts about fake pills, hear from Ed alongside physicians and harm reduction educators, and learn how to talk to your kids in ways that actually protect them. Episode five is designed for parents and teens to listen to together. New: Real Talk About Fake Pills for Middle School Nowvkh dedicated materials for middle school classrooms. A middle school teacher reached out and asked if we could adapt our Real Talk About Fake Pills curriculum for her classroom. She wasn't the only one. So we did it. The new middle school deck —developed in direct collaboration with educators —is now part of our Educator Package. Same facts, same approach, tuned for a younger audience. The New Drug Talk Is Now on Social Media Newchannels forparents—followfor advice and tips. We've launched new social channels dedicated to The New Drug Talk —giving parents another way to stay informed about fake prescription pills made with fentanyl, plus what parents need to know about today's drugs. Follow us to get the facts in your feed. Save the Date: National Fentanyl Awareness Day (NFAD) Is April 29 SAVETHEDATE L29 Our fifth annual. Mark your calendar: The fifth annual National Fentanyl Awareness Day, Organized by Song for Charlie, is Wednesday, April 29th. Help Us Reach the Next Family Our work is donor funded, which means we count on you! 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QUICK LINKS RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES The New Drug Talk La Nueva Drug Talk Start the Conversation Watch the The New Drug Talk Film LEARNITEACH Facts about Fentanvl School and Youth Group Program Access the Real Talk About Fake Pills Film GETINVOLVED How to get Involved Outreach Toolkit Unsubscnbe From All Corru mications I Unsubscnbe From This List I Manage ErnaA Preferences Date: 3/10/20261:10:29 PM Front To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] [Shared Post] IPads in kindergarten, YouTube videos at snack time: Parents are pushing back on screens in the early grades 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. https//hechi Wrreport org/ipads- ii-kindergarten-youtube-videos-at-snack-tines-parents-are-pushing back -on -screen ti w- in -the -early- grades/ Date: 3/17/2026 2:42:41 PM Front To Cc: "senator.umberg@senate.ca.gov" senator.umberg@senate.ca.gov [EXTERNAL] Can We Save Kids from Social Media?The social psychologist Jonathan Haidt discusses social media's Subject: "subversion of the ability to pay attention on a species -wide level," howpolicymakers are intervening, andwhat more we should be doing to pr... 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. (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SOCIALEMOTIO NAL PAWS.CO M FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsJlwww.govinfo.govlcontent/pkg/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org Can We Save Kids from Social Media? The social psychologist Jonathan Haidt discusses social media's "subversion of the ability to pay attention on a species -wide level," how policymakers are intervening, and what more we should be doing to protect children. The poet and critic Randall Jarrell once said that a poet is someone who "manages, in a lifetime of standing out in thunderstorms, to be struck by lightning five or six times" Jonathan Haidt, in his career as a wide-ranging social psychologist, has been flagrantly right about at least one big thing. His book "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness" was a best-seller when it was published two years ago and its influence has hardly waned. As both a researcher and as a popularizer, Haidt argues that social -media companies have unleashed what is essentially a "mind -altering" danger in our lives —particularly in the lives of kids. At first, Haidt's work met with some critical eye -rolling, partly because a few in the field believed that he had not quite nailed one assertion or another, but more commonly because he seemed to some an alarmist, a techno-Luddite whinging about "kids these days and their devices." But as the evidence of the harms accumulated —of social disconnection, of a sharp decline in mental health among young people—Haidt's book became, for so many, essential. 1 last met with Haidt for The New Yorker Radio Hour when his book was published. I wanted to catch up with him to review the political and social ramifications of his work from here to Australia and his own turn from scholar to activist. Our conversation has been edited for clarity and length. Jonathan, 1 really wanted to have you back. We had a wonderful conversation a couple years ago, and you've done a lot of work since then. I've done a lot of thinking about it, too, 1 must admit, and I'm not alone. Your book has been cited as part of the inspiration for some new laws that are trying to shield children from social media. As we all know, there's a major law passed in Australia, which we'll get to. And a trial has just started, in the state of California, against social -media companies, and that seems really significant. Talk me through what's going on in California. That's right. These companies were given near -blanket immunity [from liability] for their actions back in the nineties. Section 230, the Communications Decency Act, said that we can't sue Meta or TikTok because of what someone else posted on Meta or TikTok. Advertisement As a First Amendment idea? It was actually done to incentivize the companies to moderate. The companies were afraid that if they take anything down, they become responsible for every single [piece of content]. So Congress said, "Go ahead and take down porn, and don't worry —no one can sue you if you leave something up." They wanted to give them more freedom of action. It was a good idea originally, but the courts have interpreted it so widely. So you have all these parents with dead kids, and, in many cases, it's just crystal clear. 1 mean, the kid got sextorted on Snapchat and was dead that night. That wasn't a correlation. That was causation. You have a happy eleven -year -old girl, she gets on Instagram, and a few weeks later she's developing an eating disorder. So you have all these parents whose kids have been killed or damaged, and not one has ever gotten justice. Not one has ever even been able to face Meta in court. Meta has never faced a jury. None of these companies have ever faced a jury, because they keep saying, "Section 230, you can't touch us" Now, how insane is it that the makers of one of the largest consumer products in the world —that is the one that most children use, that seems to be harming and killing a lot of them —can never be held responsible for their actions? Do you have any numbers for this? We know from Snap that they were getting ten thousand reports of sextortion from their users in 2022. And that wasn't ten thousand a year, that was ten thousand a month. And, as they said themselves, this is probably the tip of the iceberg, because most people don't report. And the kids —the boys who kill themselves —they don't report, either. And with A.I. automating sextortion it's going to go way up. When we look at harms to mental health, we tend to find twenty to thirty per cent of the girls are saying, "it harmed my mental health." The direct harms and the indirect harms are at such a scale that this could plausibly have caused the big increases, in 2012, of mental illness. So what's happening in California? The thousands of cases of parents who are suing can't be combined into a class-action suit, because class-action suit requires that all the plaintiffs have been harmed in the same way. And in this case the stories are all a little different. So they've created what's called multi -district litigation, in which several thousand cases will be heard by a single judge, a single court, in California. Now, of course, that's impossible. So the idea is the two sides argue about which cases to consider. They pick bellwether cases. Those cases go to trial in front of a jury. And then based on what those jury trials are it'll kind of be clear which way everything has to go. So that's where we are. What's the desirable outcome? The desirable outcome is that a jury, which decides questions of fact, decides that social media is addictive and it was designed to maximize engagement. They use various tricks to, basically, addict kids. When you say "tricks," what do you mean? Oh, you ever notice that on an Whone, when you pull down, like, you want to check your e-mail, it kind of bounces up and you get new ones? Yeah. That was literally copied from slot machines. Literally. 1 work with a lot of people in their twenties and thirties, and when I brought up your book a couple of years ago it seemed to some of them that it was rather censorious —yet another version of 00kids these days with their loud rock-and-roll music," or i°it was all better before." The same thing that you might've heard about television by people who had grown up on radio. Yeah, the main argument that 1 get is, Oh, this is just another moral panic about whatever technology the kids are using. And as you and 1 talked about last time that's a perfectly legitimate argument. 1 have to show why this time is different. The big difference I've come to see is this. Screens have been around for a long time. Screens are good ways of presenting stories. Screens have a role in education. If you watch a movie with your kid, that's great. A long story on a screen, across the room, that's wonderful. That's not this. That's not this. The difference here is behaviorist conditioning. So, with the television, there's no stimulus -response reinforcement loop. You watch, you're entertained, you might get into the story. It's a very pleasant state, to be into a great fictional story. That's what art does —it takes us out of ourselves into an imaginary world. That's great. But, when you give your child a touchscreen device, what the child quickly figures out is that if they touch something, they get something, and then they learn to touch to optimize the getting. And the getting is dopamine —quick dopamine. So it's not just the glow of the screen; it's the reactivity of it. That's right. So if you just played thirty -minute videos on a video player, it would be pretty much like television was. But instead what you have is a Skinner box. B. F. Skinner was an important psychologist from about the nineteen -twenties or thirties through about the sixties. He would create these boxes —he would put a pigeon or a rat in it. By giving them reinforcement on a variable ratio reward schedule he could very quickly take control over their behavior and make them dance, make them learn to play Ping-Pong. 1 mean, he could do amazing things. And when you give your kid a smartphone it is a behaviorist -conditioning machine. So anyone who says, "Oh, this is just like [the moral panic over] comic books" —no, this is really, really different from comic books. 1 just read you a bunch of surveys where the kids themselves say, "This is harming us." They say, "We wish it never existed." Half of them wish TikTok had never been invented. Nobody was saying that about comic books. So 1 understand people assuming that this is just another old man shaking his fist at the clouds, but this time's really, really different. 1 met with some leaders of Apple, and 1 raised a couple of your main points. What'd they say? "Turn it off." You know, ration your time, be more logical about how you use it. It's a great machine, you just have to, you know... They were, 1 have to say, pretty blase about it. Advertisement That's right. As a social psychologist, my rule is that, if one person is doing something bad or stupid, that person might be bad or stupid. But if all of us are doing something that seems bad or stupid it's probably a bad situation that's making us all behave this way. We have a lot of experience with addictive products. We know a lot about gambling and how it ruins people's lives. Not everyone is susceptible, but a lot are. Same with alcohol. Same with cigarettes. And rule No. 7 of addictive substances is: We don't let companies give them to kids. We say, "Adults, we're going to trust you to self -regulate, and ten percent of you will be severely damaged, but that's your choice." My God, we don't say that about kids. Do you think your subject —your obsession of late —is related to something that concerns me very much, which is the decline of reading? We see all this information, these statistics, about the number of people who have or have not read one book in the past year. Yes. This, actually, 1 now believe, is the biggest damage. When 1 was writing "The Anxious Generation," 1 focussed on the mental -health damage, because that's where the evidence was best. And I mention attention fragmentation, I mention addiction, but 1 don't have a lot on it. The book comes out and everyone begins talking about how they can't pay attention anymore. And it's not just kids. Adults are beginning to say that they can't pay attention. And then we start hearing — I'm telling you, it's hard for me! I'm a professional reader. It's everyone 1 talk to. And, as I told you before we went on the air, I have to take my phone and put it in the kitchen so that 1 can, in the other room, read manuscripts, read a book. And it strikes me that the rise of the phone and all it implies is the greatest experiment in human consciousness, in a sense, that hasn't been thought through. Absolutely. It's just speeding sixty miles an hour into our lives and carrying us along. With effects far beyond what we can imagine. The key neurotransmitter here is dopamine. Dopamine is wonderful, and we want our kids to experience a lot of slow dopamine. Slow dopamine is: your kid is trying to build a tree house, and at first he fails, and then he makes some progress, which feels really good. And so he's motivated to work harder, and then he fails again. And over time he eventually finishes, and boy, what satisfaction that is. So that's how you raise an adult: you give them a lot of experiences of slow dopamine. They learn to set goals and pursue them. Here's how you undermine that: Make available to every child, from the age of two, an iPad. And what the child will quickly learn unconsciously is they're looking at something, and within eight seconds, they will know, this is kind of interesting, but it's not —swipe. Oh, wow, this is so funny. Oh, this is great. Quick dopamine, quick dopamine. They go someplace else. This is the experience that young people have had since birth, now. Kids are given iPads routinely when they're in their strollers. So this is not just crabby college professors whining about their students not reading "Middlemarch" in a week. No, this is the subversion of the ability to pay attention on a species -wide level. And as one of my students said, because 1 showed her that Atlantic article about how students aren't reading books anymore —she said, "Yeah, I pick up a book, I read a sentence, I get bored, 1 go to TikTok:' Because, again, you've been on this book for eight seconds and it's not that interesting, but the thing in my pocket is a lot more interesting —quick dopamine, quick dopamine. So this is what we've done. And this is even worse for the boys, because for the boys, it's video games, it's porn, it's vaping, it's gambling, it's sports betting. So for boys, it's open season on their dopamine systems. And this is going to make it very hard for them to develop executive function, follow goals, be useful as employees or spouses. You came in today and put in front of me a paper that you've said is the most important research you've done. It's called "Social Media Is Harming Young People at a Scale Large Enough to Cause Changes at the Population Level." At The New Yorker, we wouldn't call that a good print title —it would be a good S.E.O. title. But tell me what this report is all about, that you and your co-author, Zachary Rausch, have published this year. Here's a quote from Mark Zuckerberg, when he was questioned under oath in the U.S. Senate, January 31, 2024. He says: "Mental health is a complex issue and the existing body of scientific work has not shown a causal link between using social media and young people having worse mental health outcomes." His claim, in multiple places, is that it's just a correlation and you can't prove that there's causation. Zach and I have laid out seven different lines of evidence. We're trying to reframe the argument as one that can actually be solved. We do have ways of knowing if A caused B in the law and in social science. So we have lots of studies, surveys of young people. What do they say? Do young people think that social media is great for their mental health? Absolutely not. So this is line one: what the victims say. And in Exhibit A we present a bunch of surveys of young people. Advertisement And these are surveys done by whom? Pew, Gallup, Common Sense Media, many international outlets as well. We cover international research as well. Pew, which is probably the main source of evidence here, in 2024, found that one - quarter of girls say that social media harms their mental health. One-third say it makes them feel worse about their lives. Fifty per cent say it harms their sleep. It all comes back to this question of correlation versus causation. So line one is what the victims say. Line two is what the witnesses say, and that's the parents, the teachers, the psychologists, the psychiatrists. They have very negative views of this. They see it up close. They say, "This is causing anxiety disorders. This is harming my patients." And then the third line is what the perpetrators say. If a prosecutor is laying the case out in court and he says to the jury, "I have here texts from Frank, the alleged perpetrator, in which he says to a buddy, '1'm going to mug Carol at three o'clock: " And then he has a text saying, "1 mugged Carol at three o'clock. Look at all the loot 1 got" —would that be evidence of causation, or is that just a correlation? We have quote after quote [showing knowledge of harm] from inside the companies. I'll just read a couple very briefly. From TikTok, an internal research report: "Compulsive usage correlates with a slew of negative mental health effects like loss of analytical skill, memory formation, contextual thinking, conversational depth, empathy," and it correlates with increased anxiety, and it goes on and on. So they know that they are hurting kids. They say the product in itself has compulsive use baked into it. They designed it to be addictive, and it's addictive. Snap, 1 already gave you the ten thousand reports of sextortion a month. Meta: "There are reasons to worry about self-control and use of our products, and" — Wait, who's speaking here? So this is a member of Meta's core data -science team and a senior data scientist at Meta having a conversation: "Without providing much more value, how to keep someone returning over and over to the same behavior each day? Intermittent rewards are most effective. Think slot machines." They talk about it. They maximize for engagement. Let's talk about another country where something has been done about this. Late last year, Australia enacted a new law requiring age verification for social -media users. 1 think that's the first national law of its kind. Yes, it was. What does this verification look like, and how is it working? The Australia bill was very carefully drafted. They commissioned a former chief justice of the Supreme Court, Robert French, to figure out how it would be done. And it specifically says that it's up to the companies to do it. It's their responsibility. And it specifically says the companies cannot only ask for a government I.D. They have to offer an alternate way [to authenticate]. And there already were dozens of companies that offer alternate ways. Wait, how does it work? So the idea is: you want to open an account on Instagram. You put in your birthday and it then kicks you over to a page that says, "Here are four ways that you can validate that you're old enough." So it's not an honor system. Yes, I'm eighteen, on we go. That's right. Until December 10th, which is when it went into effect, the world was on the honor system. Porn, "Are you eighteen?" "Yes." "You're in." So that began to end on December 10th. Why did this happen first in Australia? It just so happens that the wife of the Premier of South Australia read "The Anxious Generation" soon after it came out. And she said to her husband, Peter —Peter Malinauskas—"You got to read this book, and then you've got to effing do something about it." And he did. And he called up Robert French and said, "How could we do this?" And they did it. It wasn't an ideologically divided issue? It's always bipartisan. Always. In every country, the left and the right are working together. How is it coming along in Australia? Here's what we know. Julie Inman Grant, their e-safety commissioner, put out a press release about three or four weeks ago. She said all ten of the covered platforms have complied. They took down 4.7 million accounts from the 2.5 million Australian kids in that age range. And, of course, some are getting around it with V.P.N.s. Although 1 heard from someone who's studying it—V.P.N. usage went way up at first, but it came way back down, because the kids want to check their social media thirty times a day, and if you have to load up a V.P.N. it's a bit of friction. So of course kids are still getting around it, but as Julie pointed out: We're trying to change the norms of a nation, the norms of childhood. We won't really know the full effect for ten or twenty years. How does it affect schools and phones? So, two things. One is locking up the phones in the morning, a phone -free school policy, and that has magical effects—transformative effects. Some schools don't implement it well, they don't enforce it well, and then there's cheating. But in schools that enforce it reasonably well the results are always spectacular. The thing that you always hear is: We hear laughter in the hallways again. The lunchroom is so loud. Kids are laughing. Advertisement That sounds too good to be true. Do we know this to be the case? First of all, it's very hard to find an account anywhere of this backfiring. And that would be newsworthy. There are a lot of efforts to measure what's going on. Angela Duckworth, at Penn, is doing a major assessment, and she showed me some preliminary data in which the schools that used special phone lockers —that really took the phones away for the day —got the best results, in terms of teacher reports, academic outcomes. And the ones that used Yondr pouches got good results —not as good. And the ones that use a backpack policy, which a lot of schools do, unfortunately-f°Keep it in your backpack, don't take it out." Look, if you're a cocaine addict, and you're told, "You can keep your cocaine with you all day long."... So, yeah, it does seem to be working incredibly well. The biggest argument against the Australian policy, or bringing the Australian policy to the United States, is a First Amendment argument. Explain the First Amendment argument and why you disagree with it. So of course the First Amendment is that Congress shall make no law restricting the freedom of speech. And the companies argue that any kind of regulation is going to stop somebody from speaking and therefore violates the First Amendment. But the law already says that you have to be thirteen to sign a contract. This isn't about who can say what. It's about contract law. And right now, the law says that you have to be thirteen before a company can take your data without your parents' knowledge or consent. And the Australian law says, first of all, thirteen was too low. For a child to sign a contract, they have to be sixteen. Oh, and guess who has to enforce the age limit? It's not the child. It's the company. So 1 don't see any First Amendment — The way a liquor store needs to see a driver's license. That's right. It can't be up to the parents to keep their kids out of liquor stores and strip clubs. It has to be the person at the door. Now, the people being harmed by these things are not just thirteen, fourteen, and fifteen year olds. It's even geezers like us, Jonathan, arguably. Are we left to our own devices? We pretty much are, at least as far as I'm concerned. What 1 mean by that is: I'm an American, I have some generally libertarian tendencies. 1 don't want to tell adults what to do. Adults can make their own choices. How do we maintain some of the real connection and community that young people do find online? Thanks for asking that, because this is one of the main arguments I get. It's: thank God for social media. How could they ever connect if they didn't have social media? How could they find information? To which 1 say, Yeah, kids need to connect. And the best way to connect is in person. And the second best way is by telephone or Zoom or FaceTime. And the worst way to connect is by posting something and having it be public and having people comment on it. That seems to be counterproductive. That seems to cause anxiety. That does not make people feel connected. What I have found from talking to my students and to young people is that they're afraid that they will be seen as a freak if they don't have Instagram—because everyone has Instagram and Snapchat—but in fact the ones who go without it, other kids, when they talk to them, almost always say, "Wow, 1 wish I could do that. Wow, what's it like?" We've discussed what's happening in Australia. What's it going to take for anything like that to come to the United States? What's the position of the Administration? Two things. First, as soon as my book came out, mothers jumped into action, pressed for political action. We got huge amounts of reform in the states. Many states have taken action on phone -free schools, on regulating social media. Here in New York, our governor, Kathy Hochul, has been great on all these issues. So there's been a huge amount of action at the state level, a huge amount of action around the world. There's only one place that 1 know of where nothing is happening, and that's Congress. Now, what's the role of the Administration? Because the tech moguls have been buddying up with President Trump, many people assume —and 1 saw this all over Europe. People are afraid to regulate social media because they think that Trump will come after them or put tariffs on them. But here's the thing that I want everyone to notice about this. Yes, Donald Trump and Elon Musk will be very upset if you try to do content moderation and say what counts as hate speech. But if you're protecting kids they actually have shown a lot of signs of support. The only thing America has ever done to protect kids [from social media] is the Take It Down Act, which was pushed by Melania. And the Kids Online Safety Act, the only act that ever almost made it to law a year or two ago, Donald Trump, Jr., tweeted support of it. Linda Yaccarino, the C.E.O. of X, tweeted support of it, and Elon Musk amplified her tweet. So 1 think the people in the Trump order — Advertisement Those seem like baby steps, though. Well, passing KOSA would be huge, because we've never done much to protect kids ever. And so if we could do something in the U.S. Congress — So you see the potential of a coherent, Trump Administration -led piece of legislation, analogous to what's going on in Australia? Raising the age would be a bigger step. And so that might take a while longer. Have you ever talked to anybody in the Administration? I've talked not directly with Trump, but with people in the office of the Vice -President, and ... We have some contacts with people in or near the Administration. And what are those conversations like? Well, they're interested in it, because again, everyone has kids. Everyone sees the threat. Parents everywhere see this as the biggest threat. You have the same kind of conversations on the Democratic side? Largely, yes. The Democrats are — You're saying "largely." Yeah. So what happens is that Meta puts out a set of talking points to inflame the right, and that is censorship, censorship, censorship. And they have a set of talking points to inflame the left. And that is that social media is a lifeline for L.G.B.T.Q. kids. And that is not true. The internet was a lifeline for them. Kids who were isolated, often in rural areas, when the intemet came in —now they could find information, they could find others. There are all kinds of ways they were not isolated. The internet's amazing. Social media is just a small part of the intemet, and it's an incredibly toxic part. So Zach Rausch and I have an article in The Atlantic with Lennon Torres, who's a trans activist, and Lennon talks about what happened to her when she was transitioning. And we have data showing that L.G.B.T.Q. kids do use social media more than any other group, but they're also much more likely to report having been harmed by it. Social media is not a lifeline for L.G.B.T.Q. kids. The intemet is. Who's your best political ally? 1 would say the first one who stepped forward was Sarah Huckabee Sanders. She contacted me right away after the book came out. And then also Kathy Hochul, around the same time. So it's female governors, or the First Lady of Virginia. Mothers are quicker off the mark. They were desperate to do something, and a lot of them have. Interesting. I would say female politicians, female governors —but lots of male governors, heads of state, as well. Do you have any allies in the tech world? In other words, is there anybody unexpected who leads YouTube or TikTok and they say, "You know what? You're right. I want to work with you to make this better and not just try to combat you." There's one so far —Bill Ready, the C.E.O. of Pinterest. He reached out to me weeks after the book came out. He himself had, when he took over at Pinterest, just cut off the social features for everyone under sixteen [because of safety concerns]. And he just said, "No more of that." So Bill Ready has been great. You've not heard from Tim Cook, at Apple, or Elon Musk, or ... ? No, none of them. 1 had two meetings with Mark Zuckerberg in 2019 and 2020. We debated the issue of causality versus correlation, but they have not reached out to me. How will A.I. affect not only your work but all of us, in terms of what we've been discussing? Yeah. So leaving aside all the existential risks, all the ways that it could lead to human extinction. Let's just talk about human development. Social media hacked our attention and took most of it. Young people, nearly half of them say that they're online almost constantly. So social media made off with most human attention, not just for kids but for older people as well, but not as much. And that should be the crime of the century, and that is debilitating. But A.I. is going to be much worse, because A.I. is going to hack our attachments. We have an attachment system in the parents and the child, and the infant must, with repeated turn -taking, serve and return interactions. You do something, the kid does something back, you do something back. That is what develops the brain. That is what develops the internal working models of attachment. If you have secure attachment, you're well set up to have adult romantic relationships in which you are stable, not incredibly difficult to be with. Now that we have A.I. in Teddy bears and in every social -media product — What is A.I. in Teddy bears? Oh, it's a Teddy bear that you can talk with. It's a chatbot in a Teddy bear. It'll become your best friend. It'll be supportive. Great. That's fantastic. Right. So chatbots already have a death toll. We already know about kids who were talked into suicide, or at least encouraged to kill themselves and hide it. And we're now going to raise our children with it. It's going to be really good at entertaining them. We're all busy because we have so much to do on our phones. 1 sense another book coming from you, Jon. 1 think things are moving too fast for another book. 1 may not write another book. I've got to just write articles. Interestingly, you've gone from subject to subject over your adult and academic life, but this seems like now the work of a lifetime. Advertisement Yeah. This is what I'm going to do for the rest of my life, because this is the biggest — What does that mean? I have a contract to write a book on democracy, called Life After Babble: Adapting to a World We May Never Again Share," about what social media is doing to liberal democracy, how it may be incompatible with it. 1'd love to write that book, and I might still write it. But by the time 1 write it everything could be so radically different in our country. How would you summarize it? 1 would summarize it by saying that democracy is a conversation, and when that conversation was in the Agora, in Greece, they had one kind of democracy. And when that conversation was during the Gutenberg era, which took place in print and in places like The New Yorker, and CBS News, it was a different kind of conversation. And now we're out of the Gutenberg era —we're into the network era. We will never again know what's true. It'll never be possible to have a shared reality. So that's not the fault of Donald Trump. He's a symptom of it, you're saying. He is the first person who knew how to navigate the new world and to create some reality. And exploit it. That's right. If not for Twitter, he could not have become President. But just as it is said that both John Kennedy and Ronald Reagan were extremely adept at the age of television. And Neil Postman writes about this, the great twentieth-century media theorist. "Amusing Ourselves to Death." Exactly. And so in the same way, when that conversation moves on to Twitter, what happens to it? Read Federalist No. 10, where the Founding Fathers worried about people's ability to get pulled off into nonsense and craziness, and the ability of a demagogue to inflame the passions. They tried to design safeguards for it, but, in the social -media age, those safeguards are gone. So that genie can't go back in the bottle, either. Can't go back in the bottle. And that's why the subtitle of the book is "adapting to a world we may never again share." The New Yorker Radio Hour is a co -production of WNYC Studios and The New Yorker. Can We Save Kids from Social Media? I The New Yorker Date: 3/19/2026 2:29:05 PM From To: 140 Subiect: 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. 03-19-2025 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS.COM FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsdlwww.govinfo.govlcontent/pka/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org To whom it may concern CTE Month at Firebaugh High School = building the future of transportation Step inside our new Bike Tech Pathway, where students aren't just fixing bikes — they're building real -world skills in sustainable transportation and eco-mobility. Launched in Fall 2025, this hands-on Career Technical Education (CTE) program gives students experience in bicycle and a -bike repair, maintenance and assembly while exploring careers in transportation, engineering and technical fields. a Watch and see the future in motion. W Thinking ahead? Enrollment for the 2026-27 school year is now open. Bike Tech is one of many CTE pathways preparing Lynwood students for college, careers and life. Lynwood Unified High School Students Gear Up for New Bike Tech Pathway LYNWOOD, CA- Marco Antonio Firebaugh High School students are putting the pedal to the metal through the new Bike Tech Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathway and Ride Club, opening a space for the school's vibrant bicycle and eco-green culture to come alive and gather student enthusiasts for bike rides throughout Southern California. The pathway, which debuted at the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, engages students through hands-on learning and prepares them for a growing workforce demand in eco-mobility and sustainable transportation. "The bike tech pathway is a great way for students to learn basic mechanics and gain confidence in their problem -solving skills," Firebaugh bike tech teacher Max Olmos said. "Even something as basic as taking a bike apart and putting it together is a great skill to have, especially when the students are working together and developing camaraderie." Olmos and his wife are longtime cyclists who have biked their way through Europe and participated in scores of recreational races over the years. Along the way, Olmos became familiar with Project Bike Tech, a Colorado -based bicycle education provider, and wanted to bring the engaging program to Firebaugh. Lynwood Unified CTE Coordinator Juan Barroso agreed, and said the program provides an option for students to step away from their devices, learn valuable transferable skills and have fun outdoors. "Firebaugh High School has a tremendous bike culture on campus, and the pathway has resonated quite well with our students," Barroso said. "It's a great approach to hands-on learning that teaches the physics of biking, and provides an alternative to screens and devices." The pathway was proven extremely popular in its first year, with nearly 100 students enrolled in three separate Level One classes, where they learn basic mechanic techniques for bike repair, receive a better understanding on how green transportation and sustainability can create urban mobility solutions, and prepare for careers in transportation, engineering or technical sectors. "Bike tech is a great class because even if you don't have any mechanical skills before joining the class, you will learn them in a fun setting," Firebaugh junior and Ride Club president Jesus Herrera said. "This class is great for the person who loves to wrench on stuff like me, or the person who wants to gain confidence to fix things with their hands." Bike tech students learn proper tool usage and the importance of being organized when they perform maintenance, including "knolling" their equipment - taking every tool and laying it out neatly before the work begins. The class also emphasizes the importance of safety precautions, with students learning and being tested on various chemicals they will encounter during typical bike repair. "What is really impressive is how much initiative the students have shown outside the class," Olmos said. "I have had parents tell me how their child came home and fixed a ceiling fan, or heard about another student who fixed their friend's bike so they can go on more bike rides. We're building a community of riders and helping to facilitate positive experiences for the students." The success of the bike tech pathway led to the creation of the Ride Club, which allows students to expand their horizons by planning long distance rides to various destinations in Southern California, exploring new neighborhoods, making new friends and staying healthy. One of the first Bike Club rides took more than a dozen Firebaugh students down the Los Angeles River bike path to Bell, where the group visited the Southeast Los Angeles Bicycle Center, a popular hangout for bicyclists. Future rides include a trip to Bixby Knolls, Long Beach for a meal at Thunderbolt Pizza. Currently, Firebaugh students can enroll in Intro to Bike Tech, with plans to add a Level Two Bike Tech class next year, focusing on more advanced specialty skills, including ebike maintenance. As the pathway continues to develop, Olmos said the goal is for students to begin the pathway in their freshman year while encouraging them to pursue other technical courses to support their learning and experiences, such as engineering. "Firebaugh's Bike Tech Pathway is a prime example of providing experiential learning opportunities that integrate real -world skills with our students' everyday interests, and we are fortunate to have teachers who are equally as passionate to lead in the classrooms," Superintendent Dr. Patrick Gittisriboongul said. "Lynwood Unified's CTE programs provide a vast array of personalized learning opportunities for every student so that they can discover a pathway they can thrive in school and beyond." Lynwood Unified School Districtl1321 Bulls Road, Lynwood, CA 90262(310) 886- 1600http://www.lynwood.kl2.ca.us/SuperintendentGudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D.Board of TrusteesAlfonso Morales, Esq. - PresidentGary Hardie, Jr. - Vice PresidentAlma Carina Castro, Ed.D. - ClerkMaria G. Lopez - MemberJulian Del Real-Calleros - MemberEnrollment2024-25: 14,171 students PHOTO CAPTIONS: FIREBAUGH_CTEBIKEPATHWAY1: Nearly 100 Marco Antonio Firebaugh High School students are enrolled in the new Bike Tech Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathway, receiving hands-on experiences in bike mechanics and safety while learning about a growing workforce demand in eco-mobility and sustainable transportation. FIREBAUGH_CTEBIKEPATHWAY2: Bike tech students learn proper tool usage and the importance of being organized when they perform maintenance, including "knolling" their equipment - taking every tool and laying it out neatly before the work begins. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 6, 2026CONTACTValerie Martinez, Nancy Yeang 909- 573- 8137AttachmentsPress Release., 03-06-26Photo Gallery (3 images) Lynwood Unified School Districtl1321 Bulls Road, Lynwood, CA 90262(310) 886- 1600http://www.lynwood.kl2.ca.us/SuperintendentGudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D.Board of TrusteesAlfonso Morales, Esq. - PresidentGary Hardie, Jr. - Vice PresidentAlma Carina Castro, Ed.D. - ClerkMaria G. Lopez - MemberJulian Del Real-Calleros - MemberEnrollment2024-25: 14,171 students Firebaugh High School Launches Bike Tech Pathway to Power the Fut Date: 3/7/2026 5:16:13 PM From: "Ruben Soto"= To Subject: 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. Date: 3/8/2026 7:20:59 PM From To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch "#blasphemy to the Lord you're my godson not my son" on YouTube 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. Date: 3/10/2026 7:29:42 AM From: To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch "#evidence for senior citizen" on YouTube 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. Date: 3/10/2026 8:16:45 AM From: To: Cc: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch "#24hour fitness orangewood, in Anaheim, hispanics, white, asian and black men hating me OCCU" on YouTube 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. Date: 3/11/2026 8:53:37 PM From: To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] F-*W: We couldn't approve your Active Cash) card application 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. This is from to what family law and everybody did to rm I can't even get a credit card or a loan or nothing because of bankruptcy that my ex-wife charge over 100 grand on credit cards I didn't even know I need people in this goddamn California it's going to pay for this religious - that gave blown at rue and think I'm going to forgive him and walk away and they're going to bless rrie 1 got news for them I'm going to sue them I'm going to put them in prison like the Land of the Law says it's abuse senior citizen abuse financial abuse traumatizing me over sonic damage they're just Jesus Christ stupid stuff ---------- Forwarded nrssave--------- Front Date: Wed, Mar 11, 2026, 6:17 PM Subject: We couldn't approve your Active Cash) card application To: Thanks for applying RUBEN, after reviewing your Active Cash Visa® Card application, we can't provide you with a credit card at this time. You'll receive a letter from us in the next 30 days with more information about whywe couldn't approve your application. Application reference number: Didn't apply for this card? Call us at 1-844-750-7939. We accept relay service calls, including 711. i se do not repl to this automated email. Date: 3/11/2026 9:01:42 PM From: To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fvvd: We couldn't approve your Active Cash card application 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: Ruben Soto Date: Wed, Mar 11, 2026, 8:53 PM This is from to what bmily law and everybody did to rue I can't even get a credit card or a loan or nothing because of bankruptcy that my ex-wife charge over 100 grand on credit cards I didn't even know I need people in this goddann California it's going to pay for this religious M that gave blown at me and th it k I'm going to forgive him and walk away and they're going to bless me I got news for them I'm going to sue them Pm going to put them in prison like the Land of the Law says it's abuse senior citizen abuse financial abuse traumatizing me over some damage they're just Jesus Christ stupid stuff ---------- Forwarded messa - --------- From Date: Wed, Mar 11, 2026, 6:17 PM Subject: We couldn't approve your Active Cash® card application To: Thanks for applying RUBEN, after reviewing your Active Cash Visa® Card application, we can't provide you with a credit card at this time. You'll receive a letter from us in the next 30 days with more information about whywe couldn't approve your application. Application reference number: Didn't apply for this card? Call us at 1-844-750-7939. We accept relay service calls, including 711. Please do not reply to this automated email. Date: 3/13/202611:04:31 AM From: To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch "$consequences for your actions" on YouTube 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. Date: 3/13/202611:03:54 PM Front To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch'T legally i will destroy Boss Auto ,thats right Robert" on YouTubc 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. Date: 3/14/202612:13:29 AM Front To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch "it this my mental health or guys still being inmuture" on YouTube 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. Date: 3/16/20261:08:12 PM From: To: Subject: 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. Date: 3/17/2026 5:07:11 AM From: To: Subject: 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. Date: 3/18/2026 6:11:44 AM From: To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Boss auto, Robert, Fullerton police department,tokertowngang stealing... 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. Date: 3/18/2026 7:01:31 AM Front To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch "@ Ruben Big dog gets under everybody's skin, u marshmalloms" on YouTube 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. Date: 3/8/2026 7:06:54 P From "Jackie Lamirande To: "Public Comment" publiccominentganaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Short Documentary on OC Animal Care You don't often get email fro Learn why this is i mortant 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. Companion Animal Protection Society Releases Short Documentary Entitled A CAPS Investigation of OC Animal Care httrosl/fiillertonobserver.com2026/03/OS/companion anurral,protectior-society-releases-short-docurreLntaiy-entitled-a-caps-investigation-of-oc- anfiml-care/ Shelter mismanagement and failure by the county to conform to a strategic plan and audits have resulted in animal suffering. You can view the 15-minute video here: A CAPS Investigation of OC Animal Care Former OCAC Volunteer OC Resident Jackie La►rirande "Be the change you want to see in the world" -Gandhi Date: 3/9/2026 6:18:16 PM From "Desiree Hayes" To: "Public Connnent" publicconnnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Chicken ordinance [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This errail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Hello, I am a La Mirada resident that just read about yourupcoming meeting on backyard chickens in Anaheim Last year, La Mirada approved 6 chickens for all single fanfdy dwellings on property lot sizes over 5000 sq ft with a 5 It setback fromproperty lines and 10 ft setback fromany human inhabited dwelling. We were able to get 6 chicks under these new rules and it has been such a positive experience for our family. My husband built us an adorable coop, we use a sand bottomand a coop scoop (like a giant kitty fitter scoop) and clean it daily. There are no smells. They go to bed naturally at sunset and are quiet all night long. Thcy wake up at 7 but because we have no roosters, the noise is minimal. They do make some noise when laying an egg (egg song) but it doesn't last long and is quieter than a barking dog. Inside the house, we can barely hear it. We are able to feed our family fresh eggs on a daily basis and can share a few with the neighbors. I have given our neighbors my phone number in case they ever hear noise and they both told me they wouldn't have known I even have chickens if I hadn't told them 0 They are also a great hobby for mental health, kids, etc. Buena Park also recently allowed 6 hens, I think La Mirada used their same rules. Please consider allowing your single farrily residences 6 hens as well, it will improve the lives of your residents. (8 would be ideal for enough eggs for a family of4 but 6 is better than nothing! r 0) Thank you for your consideration, Desiree Hayes (and the sixhens: Dottie, Penny, Pippi, Olive, and Maeve) Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/9/2026 9:37:13 PM From "Paula Carter" To: "Public Connnent" publiccornnnedrt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Chicken ordinance [You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] 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. Just sending in a message ofsupport for more lenient chicken ordinances in Anaheim due to the econorrric downturn and the continued rising in grocery prices i think back to my grandma during WWII when the govemment encouraged all horses to raise chickens for eggs and to raise a victory garden. Most avid gardeners (who raise their own vegetables) would view chickens as a great addition to the garden. Other communities like La Mirada allow up to 6 hens with only 10 ft between dwellings and a chicken coop. Of course roosters are only allowed for larger lots. Just adding my 2 cents! Thankyou P. Carter Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/10/2026 9:09:27 AM From: "Estimator" To: "Public Comt-nent" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Change the chicken ordinance You don't often get email from Leam vd iy this is important 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. Most cities in OC allow 5-6 backyard chickens, but Anaheim allows one bird per 1,800 square feet, with 50 foot setbacks. That makes it impossible for Anaheim residents to raise chickens for eggs. Buena Park changed its chicken ordinance to 6 hens and 10 foot setbacks in 2024 with a lot of effort and enthusiasm from the mayor and city council. La Mirada made less restrictive changes in 2025. Fullerton and Brea don't limit hens, and cities like Cypress, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Yorba Linda, HB, Garden Grove, etc. have much more reasonable chicken ordinances than Anaheim. Please consider revising the code with a chicken ordinance on behalf of its residents that is much more reasonable and in line with that of other cities in SoCal. Regards, Joseph Rios ***Please note that our newshipping/receiving/viill call hours W11 be M — F from 9:00am to 4:00pm and W11 be closed for lunch from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Will call orders must be ordered at least 2 hours prior to arrival. **** Date: 3/11/202610:37:33 AM From "Eva L" To: "Public Comment" publicconanent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Writing in Support of Changes to Chicken Ordnance You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important 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. Hello, I am an Anaheim resident and I support the changes to the Chicken Ordinance m Anaheim to match what the surrounding cities have (5-6 chickens) instead of the 1 chicken per 1800 sgft. Please change the ordinance to help residents be able to raise more chickens to support their household costs as prices are only increasing for groceries. Sincerely, Eva L. Date: 3/12/202611:45:19 AM From "Michael Mavrovouniotis' To: "Public Coninent" publicconnuent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] public comment for city council - regarding OC animal shelter Waring: 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. See article below. The article refers to an OC Board of Supervisors meeting. You can watch the video here: http://oc2ov.p-ranicus.com/pker/clip/5593?view id=g&redirect--true Click on item 4 in the agenda... or use the slider to get to 38:05 into the meeting. Voice of OC, March 11, 2026 Advocates Demand Reform at California Animal Shelters, Including Orange County hUs ://voic eofoc. orgJ2026/03 /c ahfornia-animal-s helters-reform/ Excerpts: [...j One of the major concerns mentioned in the cease and desist letters is the concept of "reduced/managed intake " that minimizes the overall number of animals coming into the shelter in an attempt to reduce euthanasia. Managed intake often involves shelters turning away animals or encouraging members of the public to keep the animal themselves, put it back where it was found or contact a rescue organization. [...J OC Animal Care, the county -run animal shelter in Orange County, received a cease and desist letter dated Feb. 13. The county shelter which has been the subject of numerous grand jury investigations and resident protests over the past several years —practices managed intake for stray cats. [Read: Grand Jurv: OC Animal Shelter Needs Updated Policies to Stop Killing More Animalsl The shelter does not accept healthy stray cats. Instead, it only accepts sick, injured or underage cats. Virga said this could be a violation of the Hayden Act, a 1998 state law that outlines certain requirements for animal shelters like mandatory veterinary care and holding periods for stray animals. [... I To read the cease and desist letter sent to OC Animal Care, click here. Orange County Supervisors also weighed in on the shelter's conditions during their Feb. 24 meeting. Supervisor Janet Nguyen said the shelter has made improvements over the past year, but it's a work in progress. "Please know that we appreciate you, but there is still some work to be done, " she said at that meeting. Nguyen said animal shelter staff are working on a report regarding the 2018 strategic plan and asked for an update within the next 30 days. Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento thanked residents for pushing for improvements at the shelter and said staff should issue regular updates to make sure OC Animal Care is meeting goals laid out in the strategic plan. "I think we need to do something on a periodic basis, almost as a dashboard, and make sure we're able to see how we're doing on these different concerns that we have that are outlined in the strategic plan, " he said [... j "Shelters should be learning frorn their mistakes and moving forward and udopting the more enlightened approaches that sortie of the other shelters in other areas are adopting, " Dales said. "We're not seeing that in California on the whole. " Date: 3/16/202612:55:58 AM From "ManManlW To: "Public Continent" publiccomrneirt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Regarding Homelessness Help You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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. Hello valued city ball worker, or to any other lovely person currently reading, my name is Cesar, and I've been a resident of Orange County practically my whole life. Since its inception, California has had hornlessness, that part's never going to change, no matter the place. However, in 2025. "California saw a 9% reduction in unsheltered homelessness. a 24% reduction in vouth homelessness since 2019. and over 90.000 californians moved into pernnrmemt housing since 2023' after investing in homelessness service providers. So, I believe that the City of Anaheim should continue its support in financing homelessness programs and possibly increase its help, while it is within reason It is clear that giving financial support to these homelessness progranr;, for California at least, has helped decrease the influence of the problem so let's not stop this support and continue on with helping the public m this way. Date: 3/7/202612:54:24 PM Franz "Julie Shin" To: "Ashleigh Aitken" AAitken@anaheimnet Cc: "Public Comrnent" publiccomwnt@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Changes to Chicken Ordinance to allow for Adequate Backyard Homesteading You don't often get email fro Learn why this is important Waring: 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. Hello Mayor Aitken, I hope this message fir ds you well With the outbreak of another war and rising food costs, I am very concerned about the extremely restrictive chicken ordinance in the city of Anaheim CA. Suburban backyard homesteading is extremely important for farnihes to be able to source their own food in thins of trouble. Economic downturn, cost of food skyrocketing and disruption to supply chain logistics are here, with huge upticks around the comer in the entire USA. I am asking you and the Board of the city of Anaheim to consider the examples of other cities in Orange County that have more reasonable chicken ordinances. 1 bird per 1800 square feet and 50 feet setbacks make it impossible for anyone to raise chickens in this city. Chickens are flock animals and cannot We alone - there need to be at least 2. A &* needs 5 to 6 hens to get an adequate amount of eggs per week. And very few people have a distance of 50 feet between them and their neighbors in the backyard. The city of Buena Park, in 2024, listened to resident requests and created a very reasonable chicken ordinance for its fann7ies. Yorba Lirxla, Fullerton, Brea, Costa Mesa... these cities all have very fair and reasonable chicken ordinances. Please consider changing the chicken ordnance for the city very soon, as we are in an economic cycle that predicts economic depression and shortages now and over the very near fu=e. Thank you very much, Julie Shin Anaheim CA 92801 Date: 3/20/2026 6:01:23 PM From "M la" To: "Public Comment" publicconanent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] NO to Hens or Chickens in Backyards You don't often get ema>7 from Learn t this is !moruu t 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. City Leaders, I saw that individuals are advocating for a Chicken Ordinance to allow individuals to keep 5-6 hens in their backyards. Based on health and safety reasons as well as aesthetics, I believe if this is allowed it will negatively affect the quality of life in the neighborhood. It will cause disagreement among neighbors, which invariably will cause law enforcement to be involved. Anaheim Police is already busy with other important matters. Let's not add more to their plate. Also property values might be impacted if one tries to sell their house with neighbors keeping chickens in the backyard. I respectfully submit this email to voice my opposition to this idea. Thank you for your consideration. Anaheim Resident, M. Li Date: 3/20/2026 8:47:56 PM From "Michael Sherman' To: "Public Connuent" publicconinent(kanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Chicken keeping ordinance [You don't often get email fromth Learn why this is important at httns://aka.ms/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Waming: This errail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. To the Anahiem city Council for consideration, The technology ofchicken keeping has changed over the years and the food supply has been threatened fairly recently with Covid and now wars. It is important to have some semblance of food Security wherever that's possible. During Covid, I had a flock of five birds and I was able to keep them for over five years without my neighbors knowing. Because I kept the coop as a carbonaceous diaper. In other words, I used malch or wood shavings to absorb the nitrogen caused or sourced fromthe chicken manure eliminating the smell. I petitioned to my city with similar arguments and they agreed with me in that we should be allowed to keep a decent number of chickens on the property. If in fact it would not pose a nuisance to other residences, and it does not. Chickens are not very loud and they only make noise when they lay an egg. It is less offensive than a dog barking throughout the day by far. My city changed their animal, keeping codes to allow for chickens without obtaining a permit and up to 10 chickens with a permit even on RD 4.5 residential zoning. It has been nice having 10 chickens to get about eight eggs on average every day. Please consider allowing the residents ofAnahiem, the freedomand liberty to pursue what makes themhappy without affecting the people around them It is absolutely possible, and it is quite easy. Michael Shearon Sent from my iPhone Date: 3/21/2026 8:25:51 AM From: To Subject: [EXTERNAL] lAvd: Illegal Alien from Mexico Charged with Carjacking in Orange County and with Illegally Reentering the U.S. Following Deportation 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 FBI <fb&_subscriptionsjjb gov> Date: Thu, Mar 19, 2026, 12:31 PM Subject: Illegal Alien from Mexico Charged with Caijacking in Orange County and with Illegally Reentering the U.S. Following Deportation To: FBI Los Angeles News Illegal Alien from Mexico Charged with Carjacking in Orange County and with Illegally Reentering the U.S. Following Deportation A twice -deported illegal immigrant from Mexico has been federally charged with carjacking a restaurant employee in Orange County last month. March 9, 2026 i Tube You have received this message because you are subscribed to one or more of the following categories: Los Angeles Manage Subscription I Unsubscribe If you have questions about this service, email us at del iveryasubscriptions.fbi.gov. Help I Privacy Policy I Visit FBI.gov Date: 3/22/20261:42:39 PM From: To: Subject: [EXTERNAL] Watch IT breaking in my storage facility, no permission" on YouTube 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. Date: 3/22/202611:38:55 PM Front "Ruben Soto" "The White House" conrnunicationsCa>mail.wbitehouse.gov, "Public Comment" publicconumot@anaheimnet, To: "webmaster(q' riversideca.gov" nebmaste ariversideca.gov, "Olivia Sehmnson" olivia.selmanson a..ocpubdef com "Media@oedapa.org" Media@ocdapa.org Subject: [EXTERNAL] F-Ad: Whitehouse correspondence Attachment: 20251221 _214054.jpg; 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 Ruben Soto Date: Mon, Dec 29, Subject: Fwd: Whitehouse correspondence To: ---------- Forwarded iiussage--------- From Ruben Soto Date: Sun, Dec 21, 2 25, 9.44 PM Subject: Whitehouse correspondence 9:40 IP 43i� UTE 4 45% n THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON July 31, 2025 The White House has received your thoughtful message and request for assistance. We are sorry to learn of the serious difficulties you and your family are experiencing. After carefully reviewing your correspondence, we feel that your concerns could best be addressed at the State or local level. Please contact your government officials by visiting their websites for further guidance. Additionally, we encourage you to seek assistance from social service agencies and organizations in your area that may be able to provide immediate relief. The President is grateful for your letter and appreciates your kindness and continued support. Thank you, Office of Prudential Correspondence El Date: 3/23/202612:06:23 AM From: To: Subject: [FXTF-RNAI.] Fwd: Branch Transaction Record Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click finks or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. ---------- Lr--------- From: Date: Tue, Mar 3, 2026, 11:22 AM Sub ect: To: Your transaction record 3/23/202612:19:31 AM Date: From: To Subject: Attachment: MMCA_PI_V03082021.pdf-,H[PAA Medical Request Page I doc.pdf;H[PAA Page 2.docx.pdf;Fina1 Inhouse Services Disclosure 7.15.22.docx.pdf;Sumnwry.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 Morgan & Morgan Contracts via DocuSign <dse_na2(&docusign.net> Date: Wed, Jan 11, 2023, 12:08 AM Subject: Completed: Ruben G. Soto Your La er Is Read To Investigate Your Claim- Click To Get Started To: Ruben G. Soto MMMorgan & Morgan Contracts esignmmpa(Morthepeople.com All parties have completed Ruben G. Soto, Your Lawyer Is Ready To Investigate Your Claim - Click To Get Started. Thank you for choosing Morgan & Morgan! Our 800 trial attorneys across the country have decades of experience securing billions of dollars for hundreds of thousands of clients. Click Here to see how we have helped other clients just like you! Your dedicated attorney and case management team will work to ensure you get the support you need during the life of your potential claim. However, before they can proceed, we need you to sign a few documents. Please sign all documents by clicking ""Review Documents"" above. If you have any questions please call (800) 555-6666. FIVE REASONS TO CHOOSE MORGAN & MORGAN: 1. You get a firm that has recovered more than $13 billion for our clients. 2. You don't pay anything unless we win for you. 3. You have a legal team that will fight for you. We have experienced trial attorneys who won't settle for low -ball offers that won't cover your bills. 4. You're retaining a firm with the size and resources to bully the bullies - we'll hire experts and investigators who could help your potential claim. 5. You will be able to reach your legal team at any time if you have questions. We're open 24/7. Thank you for trusting Morgan & Morgan. Powered by DocuSign Do Not Share This Email This email contains a secure link to DocuSign. Please do not share this email, link, or access code with others. Alternate Signing Method Visit DocuSign.com, click 'Access Documents', and enter the security code: About DocuSign Sign documents electronically in just minutes. It's safe, secure, and legally binding. Whether you're in an office, at home, on -the -go — or even across the globe — DocuSign provides a professional trusted solution for Digital Transaction ManagementTM. Questions about the Document? If you need to modify the document or have questions about the details in the document, please reach out to the sender by emailinq them directly. Stop receiving this email Report this email or read more about Declinina to sian and Managing notifications. If you are having trouble signing the document, please visit the Help with Signing page on our Support Center ♦ Download the DocuSign App This message was sent to you by Morgan & Morgan Contractswi,o is udng the DocuSign Electronic Signature Service. If you would rather not receive email from this sender you may contact the sender with your request. MORGAN & MORGAN AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION (PHI) UNDER HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT (HIPAA) ** Records Requested in Electronic Format per 45 CFR 164.524(c)(2)(ii) 1. The undersigned patient, named below, hereby executes this authorization in compliance with the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, HIPAA, 45 CFR 164.104, 45 CFR 164.508 and 45 CFR 164.524. 2. This authorization is directed to the following healthcare service provider (including its agents, employees and associates): 3. The above -named healthcare service provider is requested to release the protected health information (PHI) that is described below, to the patient's attorney: Morgan & Morgan Attn: 4. The records include, but are not limited to, the following items: ** Records Requested in Electronic Format per 45 CFR 164.524(c)(2)(ii) The protected health information released herein is specifically as follows: Note: a Copy of this Authorization Shall Be Treated as an Original All medical information of any nature whatsoever, from any source whatsoever, which is maintained by you in your records regarding the referenced patient and which is requested by my attorneys. If you are a physician or out -patient clinic, you are authorized to send your entire chart upon their request, including not only the records dictated or written up by you, but also insurance records, handwritten notes, telephone memoranda, outside records, correspondence, or any other tangible item maintained in my chart. If you are a hospital, you are authorized to release my complete records including x-rays or similar studies, office notes, face sheets, discharge summaries, history and physical, consultation notes, intra-operative records, anesthesia records, operative reports, recovery room, pathology reports, medication administration records, EKG reports, EKG strips, EEG reports, EEG strips, therapy notes, orders, progress notes, laboratory results, nurses notes, vital sign sheets, intake/output records, reports of all x-rays, mammograms, CT scans, MRIs or PET scans, emergency room records, transfer records, operative reports, anesthesia records, admitting summary, discharge summary, discharge instructions, personal property list, in -patient records, out -patient records, clinic records, correspondence, photographs, videotapes, telephone messages, computer generated information, medical bills, pharmacy and drug records, health insurance forms, insurance claim forms, insurance payment forms, Medicaid or Medicare records, concerning any medical treatment that I have received from you, at your institution, or which you keep in the regular course of business. I hereby authorize release of all records regarding mental health, psychiatric, chemical dependency or HIV. A photo static copy of this authorization shall be as valid as the original. In accordance with the provisions of 45 CFR §164.524(c)(3)(ii), I specifically request that copies of my medical records be transmitted to my attorney identified in paragraph 3 above, as my designee, and mailed to the address shown in that paragraph, and that the RECORDS BE PROVIDED IN ELECTRONIC FORMAT (PDF format on CD media), as required by 45 CFR W4.524(c)(2)(ii). REQUIRED DISCLOSURES - 45 CFR 164.508(c) A. This protected health information is to be used for the following purpose: A civil legal claim or proceeding. B. This authorization may be revoked by a signed and properly dated written revocation, delivered to the healthcare provider named above, provided that this release cannot be revoked as to protected health information that had been previously released in reliance on this document. C. The undersigned acknowledges that a refusal to sign this form will not result in a denial of healthcare by the hospital or any other healthcare provider and that this release has not been coerced by a healthcare entity or any of its business associates. D. The undersigned acknowledges that once the PHI is disclosed, it may be re -disclosed to individuals or organizations that are not subject to the federal privacy regulations such as expert witnesses, litigants, insurance companies, and even may become public record if filed with a court of law. E. This authorization will be effective for the entire duration of the legal matters related to the accident which involved the patient and occurred on (month/day/year), unless earlier revoked in writing. Patient's Signature Signature of Authorized Representative (Parent, Legal Guardian or Personal Representative) Patient's Name Witness Patient's Date of Birth Dated Patient's Social Security Number Note: a Copy of this Authorization Shall Be Treated as an Original MORGAN & MORGAN DISCLOSURE AND CONSENT In the course of representation by MORGAN & MORGAN it may be necessary to retain service providers to perform services that are necessary and/or beneficial to your case. These services include, but are not limited to, investigation services to conduct independent investigations, medical records retrieval, police report retrieval, accident report retrieval, communication services, transcription services, optical character recognition (OCR) services, and trial support services. MORGAN & MORGAN employs trained employees and investigators to perform the above services and to conduct investigations when necessary, at the direction of MORGAN & MORGAN. You have the right to direct your attorneys to retain an outside vendor or investigation service if you desire. Unless you direct otherwise, in writing, your attorneys will utilize MORGAN AND MORGAN investigators and employees to perform such services and to conduct such investigations as your attorneys may deem necessary. The shareholders of MORGAN & MORGAN have established a cost schedule (available to you upon request) which is competitive with the charges of outside vendors in the market of the services listed above. MORGAN & MORGAN believes that it will be in your best interest to utilize in-house staff and investigators for certain services determined by your attorneys. The benefits of doing so include quality of service, control of the service, timeliness of provision of such services, and cost containment. In order to utilize its in-house services in your representation, MORGAN & MORGAN makes this disclosure that you will be charged for investigative services as a cost item and that the amount charged may exceed MORGAN & MORGAN's actual cost of providing the M-1W IPM The undersigned client(s) have read the above disclosure, have been given the opportunity to ask questions and to consult with independent counsel regarding the use of MORGAN & MORGAN staff or third -party vendors as well as to provide investigative and other services in your case, and hereby consents to utilization of in-house staff and investigators from MORGAN & MORGAN for such services as the attorneys may direct. 1/11/2023 DATE DATE CLIENT CLIENT DocuSign In Person Signer Events Signature Timestamp Editor Delivery Events Status Timestamp Agent Delivery Events Status Timestamp Intermediary Delivery Events Status Timestamp Certified Delivery Events Status Timestamp Carbon Copy Events Status Timestamp Witness Events Signature Timestamp Notary Events Signature Timestamp Envelope Summary Events Status Timestamps Envelope Sent Hashed/Encrypted 1/11/2023 3:03:26 AM Certified Delivered Security Checked 1/11/2023 3:05:13 AM Signing Complete Security Checked 1/11/2023 3:08:15 AM Completed Security Checked 1/11/2023 3:08:15 AM Payment Events Status Timestamps Date: 3/22/202611:08:19 AM Front To Subject: [EXTERNAL] Lasting brain rot effects from being chronically online 160 Minutes Australia03-22 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. 03-22-2026 (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SO C IAL EMOTI O N AL PA W S.0 O M FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsJ/www.govinfo.gov/conten Vpkg/CREC-2003-03-27/adf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org To whom it may Concern Lasting brain rot effects from being chronically online 160 Minutes Australia httpsJ/youtu.be/XBedpPCv5c4?si=KZOy7d8WJcTl9T5M Date: 3/22/2026 2:06:32 PM From: "Julie Shin" To: "Public Comment" publiccommentCaanaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Visual Flyer Embedded] Supporting Updates to the Anaheim Chicken Ordinance You don't often get ema>7 fro Learn why this is important 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. Dear Mayor and City Council Members, I'm a resident reaching out ahead of the upcoming council discussion on the chicken ordinance. I've attached a simple comparison showing how nearby cities like Buena Park, La Mirada, and Orange allow 4-6 hens with reasonable setbacks. Buena Park even updated their ordinance in 2024 to allow 6 hens with only a 10 tl setback. 11 r, Update Anaheim's Chicken Ordinai V 4-6 Hens Allowed ,j1 No Roosters ,/10-20 ft Setbacks HOW NEARBY (OMPARE 4-6 Hens 49 No Roosters r/ 10-20 ft Setbacks La Mirada 6 Orange 5--6 Buena Park �4 Fullerton u Lot -based ✓No Recently Expanded ✓No Typical0( VNo __ Moderate 1--- - %/No —30 ft setback e «,'_'■►'IFa'�lrtli1�111�' La Mirada J 6 Hens ( No Roosters .-.R Orange v 5-6 Hens �, Typical 0C) � , Buena Park ~✓ 6 Hens ;10 ft Setback -_ r R. Fullerton v Lot -based ( —30 ft setback .r ry �, Brea ^-20 Hens Lenient P ti( i -- rr— -_ __---- --- ---� .�f 4-6 Hens V No Roosters J 10-20 ft Steacks %f Bringing Anaheim In Line with S©Cal Cities Sources: Buena Park 2024 Ordinance, 'Voice of OC, 0( City Codes AnahenW s current rules are significantly more restrictive than surrounding cities, and I hope the council will consider modernizing the ordinance to better reflect current standards in Orange County and SoCal A small update (such as allowing 5-6 hens with reasonable setbacks) would make a meaningful difference for residents while stM ma itrtaining neighborhood compatibility. Thank you for your tinrnc and consideration. Sincerely, Julie Shin Anaheim Resident Date: 3/24/2026 7:17:55 AM From "Maria CnO To: "Public Comment" publicconvnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] No more silence! Justice for Albert Arzola! [You don't often get email from Learn why this is important at httns://aka.rrs/LeamAboutSenderldentification ] Warning: This ernail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Mayor Aitken and Members ofthe Anaheim City Council, I amwriting to demand justice for the police killing of Albert Arzola. I demand the full, unedited body camera footage from all officers, the inanediate release ofthe autopsy report, the names ofthe officers involved, and the immediate firing ofthe officer who shot Albert to death. Albert was ambushed by two AnaheimPD officers who leapt out of an unmarked vehicle and chased him to his house. One officer shot him in the back, killing him in front ofhis family. They threatened to shoot his family and then detained themat the scene for hours. They delayed medical attention for ten rrrinutes and dragged Albert's lifeless body onto the sidewalk. Albert was doing nothing wrong and was not a threat to anyone. He was only 19-years-old and recently graduated fromKatella High School. He was a hard-working resident ofAnaheim who tookpride in his job and aspired to a career in culinary arts. He was a beloved son, family member and friend with a bright future ahead of him Albert should be alive today! I demand the full body camera footage of all officers fromthe incident. I demand the release ofthe autopsy report. I demand the names ofthe officers involved. And I demand that the officer who shot Albert be fired immediately. Justice for Albert Arzola! Sent frommy iPhone Date: 3/24/202612:41:34 PM From "Erika Armenta" To: "Public Comment" publicconvnent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] No more silence! Justice for Albert Arcola! You don't often get enrail7 from Learn wh_y this is important Wanft: This entail originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Mayor Aitken and Members of the Anaheim City Council, I amwriting to demand justice for the police killing of Albert Arcola. I demand the full, unedited body camera footage from all officers, the innnediate release of the autopsy report, the names of the officers involved, and the inrnediate firing of the officer who shot Albert to death Albert was ambushed by two Anaheim PD officers who leapt out of an ru nwked vehicle and chased him to his house. One officer shot him in the back, killing him in front of his family. They threatened to shoot his hnily and then detained them at the scene for hours. They delayed medical attention for ten minutes and dragged Albert's lifeless body onto the sidewalk. Albert was doing nothing wrong and was not a threat to anyone. He was only 19-years-old and recently graduated from Katella High School He was a hard-working resident of Anaheim who took pride in his job and aspired to a career in culinary arts. He was a beloved son, fannly member and friend with a bright fimure ahead of him Albert should be alive today! I demand the full body camera footage of all officers from the mcideM I demand the release of the autopsy report. I demand the names of the officers involved. And I demand that the officer who shot Albert be fired immediately. Justice for Albert Arzola! The family deserves transparency and justice Jail killer cops Date: 3/24/2026 3:53:01 PM From To: Subject [EXTERNAL] Shipyards desperately need vw1deis, pipetitteis, and other skilled corkers. But this mrk is grueling and dangerous. 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. (P.R.D.D.C.) PARENTS FOR THE RIGHTS OF DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILDREN CRAIG A. DURFEY FOUNDER OF P.R.D.D.C. P.O.BOX 2001 GARDEN GROVE, CA 92842 SOCIALEMOTIONALPAWS.COM FACEBOOK: CRAIG DURFEY U.S. HOUSE OF CONGRESS H2404 - HONORING CRAIG DURFEY FOR HIS FIGHT AGAINST AUTISM ... Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. httpsJ/www.govinfo.gov/conten Vpkg/CREC-2003-03-27/pdf/CREC-2003-03-27.pdf new website socialemotionalpaws.org To whom it may concern Shipyards desperately need welders, pipefitters, and other skilled workers. But this work is grueling and dangerous. https://cbsn.wst4blyPnk https://www.facebook.com/reel/I 817203112298687 New Mexico jury says Meta harms children's mental health and safety, violating state law The jury determined Meta violated parts of the state's Unfair Practices Act on accusations the company hid what it knew about the dangers of child sexual exploitation on its platforms and impacts on child mental health. New McAco jury finds Meta violated consumer protection law at trial about child safety Date: 3/24/2026 4:14:33 PM From "Sheila Pham" To: "Public Comment" publiccomment@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Chicken Ordinance of Anahiem You don't often get email from Learn why this is important 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 support people being able to own about 4-6 hens, no rooster with 51 setback from property lime, or a reasonable number Ike 30ft from house/residential dweUmg. Chickens are wonderful animals that provide eggs and fertilizer for the gardens. They don't make loud noises at night Ike a barking dog. They are entertaining and enriching. As long as people maintain their yard Ike how they pick up after a dog chickens are not dirty and stinky as people believe.