City Council Notes

Meetings are on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm. Upcoming agenda information and streaming video of meetings are available at http://www.cityoffullerton.com; click on meetings and agenda. City Hall is located at 303 W. Commonwealth, Fullerton. Contact Council at (714) 738-6311 or council@cityoffullerton.com

Mayor Nicholas Dunlap, Lieutenant Tony Bogart, Councilmember Bruce Whitaker, Laura Lasorda (Tommy Lasorda’s daughter), and Councilmember Dr. Shana Charles

Tommy Lasorda Hero Award

Tommy Lasorda, the legendary coach of the Dodgers, called Fullerton home for 58 years. After his passing a few years ago, the city now celebrates Tommy Lasorda Day on his birthday. This day is an opportunity to reflect on Tommy’s legacy and is now used to recognize outstanding leadership within the city. His daughter Laura presented the Tommy Lasorda Leadership Award in his honor.

“I’m here because this is very near and dear to my heart and family. I grew up here, and my parents lived here. They had a wonderful life here together for 58 years. To remember my father and what he did in his lifetime,” said Laura, “He came from humble beginnings. He was true to himself, his country, his community, his family, and his faith; those characteristics are something I want to continue with his legacy. So I’m here today to present this award to Lieutenant Tony Bogart.”

“Talk about special people in the community, and Lt. Bogart comes to mind. A Fullerton resident and a Fullerton volunteer, he is soon retiring from the Fullerton Police Department. He has served as an umpire with Golden Hill and East Fullerton Little League here in Fullerton and recently participated as an umpire during the Junior League World Series. Still, it almost didn’t happen because he was in a tragic accident. It’s a testament to his strength and courage as he responded on the bike one morning to a traffic accident; he had an accident of his own. But a few broken ribs couldn’t stop him. We’re very proud of Lt. Bogart,” said Mayor Dunlap.

Lt. Bogart said, “I’m honored and humbled by receiving this award. And Laura and I were talking before, and we never thought that the Lasorda family would honor an umpire.”

Proclamation October 9th Hangul Day

Hangul, the official written system of the Korean language, refers to the Korean alphabet. It was created on October 9th, in A.D. 1443, by King Sejong of Joseon. This day, known as Hangul Day, is commemorated to celebrate the cultural significance and preservation of the Korean language. Fullerton also acknowledges Hangul Day, emphasizing the importance of language as a unifying force and its ability to facilitate cross-cultural collaboration and understanding.

Not in order: Players: Mylan Jones, David Rivera, Mario Tostado, Alex Moreno, Tyler Tilton, Owen Dunn, Nathan Estrada, Wilson Dunn, Derek Sims, Mathew Dorado, Andrew Pinedo, Luis Sato, Amari Bartee, Boom Ward, Ryan Maciel, Troy Flowers, Ryan Lamastra, Raul Herrada, Alec Arnone, JJ Cruz, Noah Stevens, Brandon Reyes, Joey Legg, Jimmy Lane, Trey Seeley, Justin Drury, Chandler DeJong, Giovanni Besio, Joshua Landry, Lucas Wallin, Branden Chun-Ming, Tommy Armendariz, Steven Ordorica, and Dylan Douglas.                                                                                  Coaches: Larry Mahoney, Steven Phillips, Kevin Snapp, Thomas Zieglowsky, Payton Lobdell, Vincent Payne, Omar Veloz with Mayor Nicholas Dunlap, Laura Lasorda, and Councilmember Dr. Shana Charles.

Hope International University NAIA Baseball National Champions

WAYFINDING SIGNAGE LOCATIONS UPDATE

Director Thomas provided an update on the new signage plans for downtown. The city received a grant of $799,000 for improvements in and around the transportation center through the CleanCA Transit Enhancement Program. The funds will be used to replace the current signage system with a more comprehensive plan to help residents and visitors navigate the town more easily.

During the August 20 meeting, the council decided on a blue and white theme for the signage. The new signage will initially be placed in and around the transportation center, including Amtrak & Metrolink, OCTA stations, and Truslow Ave. However, additional funding will be necessary to add signage downtown.

The signs will be installed on existing light poles, and there will be an 8-11 foot monument sign near the Old Spaghetti Factory, which will feature the “Fullerton Transportation Center” along with the three transportation logos and the words “The Old Spaghetti Factory.” Other signage will direct visitors to various attractions around town and provide bike route information. The project is expected to be completed by December 31, 2024.

The $129,000 pylon sign north of Chapman and Harbor announcing Downtown Fullerton is not included in this grant, and the sign would require expensive trenching. The Selbert Perkins Design consultant was paid $51,000.
The update was Received & Filed.

SENATE BILL 1383 RECYCLING UPDATE

The Public Works Department representative gave a presentation on the implementation of recycling efforts across the City. The overview covered efforts over the past 35 years, including commercial, organic, and inorganic waste recycling. SB 1383 is now the most comprehensive landfill waste reduction mandate in the country, aiming to reduce organic waste disposal by 75% and increase food recovery by 2025.

The City’s Public Works Department has completed 60 out of the 70 required tasks to reduce methane emissions and climate pollution. Two new positions, Solid Waste Recycling Specialist and Environmental Services Coordinator, were created, and grants to assist with implementation were pursued. The remaining tasks include negotiations with the City’s franchise hauler and an extension due date approval for the Corrective Action Plan from CalRecycle.

Phase 1 of the plan, which included placing new waste bins at City Hall, Fullerton Public Library, and the Public Works Yard, is complete. Phase 2 is in the planning stage and includes new bins for other city-owned facilities. The next step will be to expand the collection to residents and businesses, pending negotiations with the City’s trash hauler.

The Edible Food Recovery Program redirects excess food inventories from going to landfills. A tiered list of edible food recovery generators within the City has been completed, along with data and communication with those generators about the requirements. Food Recovery Organizations have been identified. The next steps include connecting with organizations that will be receiving excess edible food regarding their capacity to redirect it to the community.

Part of the program includes education and outreach to the community, which has been done through information tables at events such as City Hall on the Go, CSUF Earth Day, Fullerton Market, Love Fullerton, and Ecohero rap performances at Elementary Schools.
The next step includes the October 19th (10:30 am-1:30 pm) Environmental Fair at Fullerton Public Library and the OctoBOOfest on October 24th (4:30-8:30 pm) at Fullerton Museum Plaza.

The City is compliant with the 2023-2025 Recycled Organic Waste Products through compost giveaways supported by grant funding. New funding sources will be required to meet annual compliance in the future. Changes were made to the City’s Environmental Purchasing Policy, requiring paper products to be at least 30% recycled unless cost-prohibitive or unavailable. The next step is to finalize an agreement with Zero Footprint to procure compost credit and expand the seasonal compost program.

There are fines for non-compliance from $50-$200, but the City focuses on educating people first.

The update was Received & Filed.

Public Comments 

Rent Control

A young man, who did not identify himself, spoke about the need for rent control in Fullerton. He mentioned that his rent went up by $160 this year and that his neighbors experienced a $180 increase. He expressed concerns that landlords might be pushing rent to the maximum legal limit, contributing to the homelessness crisis. He proposed that implementing a policy for rent control could help alleviate the issue. He acknowledged the limitations imposed by the Costa Hawkins Rental Housing Act but urged the city to take action to prevent the situation from worsening. Mayor Dunlap requested the speaker to share his contact information with the city manager to investigate the recent rent increase further.

Walk on Wilshire Support

Vanessa Estrella, a candidate for the FSD School Board and owner of a business near downtown, expressed her support for Walk on Wilshire as a gathering space that bolsters local businesses and enhances the vibrancy and uniqueness of Fullerton. She emphasized that the space fosters a sense of belonging for residents and benefits small businesses in the downtown area by attracting people and generating essential revenue. Vanessa highlighted that Walk on Wilshire also promotes a car-free environment, providing a place for families to gather and allowing visitors to experience the charm and character that define Fullerton as a thriving, diverse, and vibrant community. She urged the community to preserve Walk on Wilshire as a source of pride and joy and encouraged everyone to listen to the community’s voice.

Gavin, who identified himself as Gen Z, mentioned that he and his roommate recently moved to Fullerton after completing their service in the Air Force. They chose Fullerton because of its sense of community and believe that the Walk on Wilshire (WoW) contributes to that sense of community. Living on the same street, they find it cool and powerful to have such a place in a disconnected world. Gavin expressed that it feels good to interact with people face to face and that because of WoW, they have been exploring all of downtown and businesses that they wouldn’t have noticed if they were just driving by. He mentioned that having WoW only be seasonal could send a message to businesses that they shouldn’t invest, as they wouldn’t be able to recover their investment. Gavin also cited successful special spaces in San Diego and other cities and hoped that Fullerton could consider similar initiatives.

Brandon agreed with Gavin and mentioned that safety and community were important to him as a combat veteran, and he found both in Fullerton. He expressed that the Walk on Wilshire contributes to the feeling of safety and community. He also enjoyed visiting the various downtown businesses and spending time with his dog and friends there. He said, “It’s a great space.”

Todd Harrison, who has been speaking for years about the tragedy of retirees losing their homes due to excessive rent hikes by predatory landlord John Saunders, the owner of Rancho La Paz Mobile Home Park, said his efforts to get the city council to act have not been successful. He has come to believe that politicians just don’t care. He gave each council member a recent 42-page Harvard report that supports his idea that politicians’ decisions are only responsive to people at the top income levels. 

Tobin, a new resident of Fullerton, mentioned that he has been fortunate to live overseas for many years, residing in cities with pedestrian districts such as Amsterdam, Edinburgh, and Toronto. He expressed his support for Walk on Wilshire and stated that it was one of the main reasons he chose Fullerton as his new hometown. Becktal emphasized the importance of the initiative in enhancing community connectivity and described it as something special about Fullerton. He expressed his desire to see it preserved.

Andreas, who said he has been volunteering for Walk on Wilshire, said the group has over 1500 signatures from people who want to save space. ‘It’s an opportunity to make a new friendly city.”

Brian, a health inspector for the County of Orange, mentioned that he and his fiancée recently moved to Fullerton. They love downtown Fullerton, particularly the live music at the NightOwl, the theater at the Maverick, Downtown Thursday Market, and the Walk on Wilshire. He addressed some concerns about making the downtown area permanent, stating that the lack of parking was not an issue. There are two parking garages and one available lot within steps, with more options within a mile-and-a-half radius. He also mentioned studies, such as the 2019 MIT study on Urban Planning, which found that pedestrian areas in 14 cities saw higher business volume. As a public health official, he emphasized the health benefits of the Walk on Wilshire, including providing a safe space for outdoor enjoyment and exercise. He also highlighted the safety aspect, citing an 83% increase in pedestrian mortality from pedestrian vs. vehicle collisions between 2009 and 2022.   

Anjali Tapadila is advocating for the permanent construction of the 200-foot Walk on Wilshire. She highlights that the area is popular for walking, biking, dining, and filming, and parents use it to teach their kids to ride bikes. Anjali emphasizes that the Walk on Wilshire brings people downtown, increases revenue, and creates a safe space for people to gather, dine, play, and spend money. She urges the city council to keep the space fully pedestrianized and make it permanent year-round, as it brings significant benefits to the local community.

Matt Truxaw, a candidate for District 1 council, expressed his agreement with the supporters of Walk on Wilshire. He mentioned that he was also aware of a similar area being planned at the former Angelos & Vinci’s property next to the Fox Theater, and he thinks this is a great idea. He emphasized the need to not just focus on one area but to look for more opportunities to create little pocket plazas and walking spaces throughout the business district. Truxaw suggested using the allocated funds to fix more roads instead of dismantling Walk on Wilshire.

Rachel, a resident of Wilshire Ave, wanted to emphasize that the public strongly supports keeping the area open. She mentioned that they have been discussing with businesses and planning events with their participation. Rachel emphasized that having a safe area that stands out is important for families. She also highlighted that the space could be used for art walks, flea markets, and various events. She urged everyone to consider the neighbors’ support for keeping the area open.

James Kim, a member of Save Walk on Wilshire, mentioned that over the past two months, the group has met thousands of Fullerton residents of all ages and backgrounds. When they inform people about the potential loss of the space, the overwhelming majority, about 95%, express a desire to keep it. Many are shocked and horrified at the possibility of the council taking it away, and this issue may influence voters in the upcoming election. He also shared an excerpt from the OC Register Best of OC Awards, highlighting the appeal of the historic Villa del Sol courtyard and the Walk on Wilshire outdoor pedestrian zone. James emphasized that Walk on Wilshire received regional recognition and won the 2020 SoCal Best Project of the Year award from the American Public Works Assoc. Despite this, the council’s reluctance to make it permanent has negatively impacted local businesses. Multiple businesses are interested in investing in permanent parklets, which would generate additional revenue for the city through permits and rent.

Kim expressed that the proposed seasonal closure compromise is unacceptable to residents, as it would harm businesses and waste the money already invested in infrastructure. Kim read testimonials from businesses, including one that had hired an architect but delayed parklet investment pending the council’s decision, as well as others experiencing increased revenue from foot traffic despite being farther away from Walk on Wilshire.

Meagan mentioned that participating in Walk on Wilshire allowed her to discover numerous downtown businesses she may not have otherwise visited. She expressed a desire to see the town become more pedestrian-friendly and believes that Walk on Wilshire contributes to creating a welcoming atmosphere and enhancing Fullerton’s image.

Zee, infamous at the council for his oft-repeated car sales park idea, said he was “trying to get to Commonwealth Post Office but couldn’t because Wilshire was blocked – the shortest way from one location to another is a straight line,” he said, “and my tax dollars paid for that street.” Advocating for the new development with a plaza at the former Angelo & Vinci’s, he suggested the Save WoW members move over there. And if they insisted on having WoW, they could raise the money, come up with a business plan, and take it to the Planning Commission and get approval. He ended in a disconnected statement, dissing women without children who want bikes and pedestrian walkways. 

Andrew urged the council to support Walk on Wilshire, emphasizing its positive impact on residents, businesses, and visitors. He highlighted the potential for good publicity to attract more visitors to Fullerton and stressed the embarrassment it would cause if the space was removed. Andrew also pointed out the free marketing benefit to surrounding businesses and emphasized that they clearly benefit from Walk on Wilshire. He also mentioned alternative routes to downtown and emphasized the need to make Walk on Wilshire permanent and improve its aesthetics.

The speaker mentioned that fifteen businesses supporting Walk on Wilshire (WoW) are located on the plaza, and there is no direct evidence that WoW is causing negative effects on the six opposing businesses. Some businesses have reported a dramatic increase in foot traffic since WoW started, and there have been testimonies that WoW made the area safer. The Fire Department reviewed the plans and stated that there was adequate space, similar to a grocery store or mall. With the testimonials and studies on walkability, we can be certain that WoW has a positive impact on both the residential community and the businesses in the area. If there are still hesitations, she urged everyone to conduct a proper study of the area. Dismantling a beloved plaza without a proper study would be reckless. Please do the right thing and approve the plaza that both businesses and residents love.

Thank You Police Department/ UP Trail Update/ WoW/Homeless

Helen Higgins enjoyed walks on Walk on Wilshire (WoW) with friends and her husband. She asked the council to preserve WoW and inquired about the progress of the Union Pacific Trail. Additionally, she expressed gratitude to the Fullerton Police Department personnel for their patience while she and others attempted to file a report, even though they explained that more evidence would be needed to take action.

Saskia Kennedy, the Observer Publisher, requested the council to inform the public about the schedule for an update on the Union Pacific Trail plan. She expressed eagerness for the community to walk on it and also voiced agreement with all the speakers advocating for the Walk on Wilshire initiative.

Diane Vena expressed her gratitude to the Police Department, specifically Officers Moreno and Zuniga, for taking the time to answer her questions and for going above and beyond in their assistance. She also witnessed several police officers and HOPE Center staff working together to compassionately help a homeless person as she was leaving the department. Diane expressed her appreciation for having such services in Fullerton. Additionally, she urged the council to preserve the Walk on Wilshire, where she enjoyed a delicious vegan/vegetarian lunch with a friend. She described the place as a treasure without the noise and pollution of cars and requested that it be made permanent for everyone who loves it.

Tanya Apona addressed the persecution of homeless individuals who live in fear of police violence. She emphasized that these individuals deserve compassion, food, and support.

Curtis Gamble highlighted that Fullerton Municipal codes 15.42.050 and 15.04 pertain to the limitations imposed on homeless individuals staying at the Illumination Foundation’s Fullerton Navigation Center Recuperative Care shelter and the Fullerton Emergency Shelter, restricting stays to no more than six months per year. He suggested that the housing element should encompass shelters and advocated for permitting Movable Tiny Homes and RVs on all residential properties, considering them as a potential source of income for Fullerton residents.

War & Voting

Ryan Farsai, the owner of the Chevron business on S. Harbor, mentioned that his business is one of the top 100 tax producers and that he is working with the city staff to improve his site. He also shared his views on nonviolence, conflicts arising due to property and money, and his experience with receiving two ballots from two states. He advised anyone facing a similar issue to contact the OC Registrar of Voters at 714-567-7600 to resolve it and emphasized the importance of the next president’s focus on achieving a balanced budget.