Community Voices

Items of note on the CONSENT CALENDAR for January 20, 2026

Item 4: City Council Reviews Annual Donations Report for Fiscal Year 2024-25

As part of the council’s agenda, staff has requested that council members formally receive and file this annual donations report for the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Donations Received and Uses Report, revealing a total of $551,505.67 in donations collected from a variety of sources. Despite this influx, expenditures exceeded the donations, totaling $599,275.65. This discrepancy is attributed to the utilization of prior year’s donation reserves to cover eligible purchases.

City staff diligently track donations through separate accounts to ensure the proper allocation of funds and to prevent overspending. The oversight stems from Resolution No. 2020-066, adopted on July 21, 2020, which empowers the City Manager to accept and expend donations up to the designated limits each fiscal year. The resolution mandates an annual report to be prepared, detailing the donations received, their intended purposes, and the amounts expended.

The report, compiled by the Fiscal Services Division, provides a comprehensive overview of the donations, including beginning balances, sources of funds, descriptions of expenditures, and ending balances. Although the City operated at a deficit in donation spending this fiscal year, it plans to carry forward any remaining balances into the new fiscal year for continued use.

Item 5: Fullerton Successor Agency Proposes Final Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for 2026-27

The Fullerton Successor Agency is set to request approval for its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) and accompanying Administrative Budget Allowance, following the guidelines laid out in Assembly Bills X1 26 and 1484 and Senate Bill 107. The proposal outlines a total of $11,603,925 aimed primarily at settling the Successor Agency’s final debt service obligations and covering minimal administrative costs.

Under the provisions of the State-mandated dissolution process, the City will utilize property tax increment revenue, allocated by the Orange County Auditor-Controller, along with available cash balances from the Successor Agency Fund (Fund 89), to fulfill these financial responsibilities.

In addition, the agency is seeking a one-time adjustment of $2,039,825 from the Redevelopment Property Tax Trust Fund (RPTTF) to support final debt service payments and conclude the ROPS process. This request has been validated by the City’s external auditors, confirming that sufficient funds are on hand for these completions.

The ROPS is designed to outline the funds necessary for dissolving the former Fullerton Redevelopment Agency and includes payment amounts and due dates for existing financial obligations. The agency prepares this schedule annually until all debt is repaid. The Fullerton Successor Agency will submit the proposed ROPS to the Orange County Oversight Board and subsequently to the State Department of Finance (DOF) for review by the February 1, 2026 deadline.

The current FY 2026-27 ROPS encompasses all enforceable obligations requiring payment in the upcoming fiscal year, such as bond debt service payments and an administrative cost allowance earmarked for staffing needs associated with the agency’s oversight.

Specifically, the ROPS will have three primary components:

  1. A request for $9,551,600 to fulfill the remaining bond debt service payments for the 2020 Series A Tax Allocation Refunding Bonds, marking these as the last enforceable obligations linked to the Successor Agency.
  2. A $3,000 administrative cost allowance to support personnel involved in oversight and compliance.
  3. An allocation of $9,500 for bond processing fees associated with the agency’s debt service.

Failure to meet the February 1 deadline may result in significant penalties, including a daily civil penalty of $10,000 and a 25% reduction in the maximum administrative cost allowance.

The City Council, acting in its capacity as the Fullerton Successor Agency, is expected to adopt Resolution No. SA-2026-XX, which will approve and affirm the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Following this resolution, the agency will present the approved ROPS to the County Oversight Board for consideration.

Item 6: City Council to Consider 2026 Parks and Recreation Special Event Calendar

The Parks and Recreation Department is seeking approval from the City Council for its proposed Special Event Calendar for 2026, which was endorsed by the Parks and Recreation Commission during their January 12 meeting. Among the planned events is a highly anticipated Fourth of July festival.

The proposed calendar outlines a total budget of $858,000 for the year, drawn from the General Fund, the Brea Dam Fund, and various grants. The breakdown of estimated expenditures includes:

  • – Community Yard Sale: $3,000
  • – Fullerton Coffee Fest: $5,000
  • – Eggstravaganza: $10,000
  • – Thursday Night Market: $105,000
  • – Fullerton Fit 5k & Health Fair: $35,000
  • – 4th of July Festival: $325,000
  • – Friday Night Live Concerts: $26,250
  • – Pup-Toberfest: $10,000
  • – Spooky Street: $10,000
  • – Veterans Day Parade: $20,000
  • – Tree Lighting: $25,000
  • – First Night 2027: $275,000

These planned events aim to provide free or low-cost activities that foster community engagement and inclusivity for residents of all ages. In addition to large citywide celebrations like the Fourth of July and First Night, the Parks and Recreation staff will organize smaller neighborhood events, ensuring a variety of options for the community.

The current fiscal year budget will support events scheduled through June 30, 2026, while additional funding will be requested for events occurring after that date in the 2026-27 budget process.

With a focus on creating lasting memories, the Parks and Recreation Department continues to strengthen community bonds through engaging and accessible events.

Here’s a closer look at what’s in store:

Community Yard Sale Series

Scheduled for March 7, May 2, August 1, and October 3, the Community Yard Sale Series will take place at Independence Park’s parking lot from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Residents can rent a space for $25, while non-residents will pay $35. With a budget of $3,000 drawn from the General Fund, this quarterly event intends to encourage reuse and waste reduction, allowing residents to sell their personal goods in a safe and structured environment.

Fullerton Coffee Fest

Come Spring 2026, the Hunt Library will transform into a hub for coffee and tea lovers at the inaugural Fullerton Coffee Fest. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., attendees can indulge in curated tastings, demonstrations, and educational sessions led by local vendors, all at no cost. With a budget of $5,000 from the Hunt Programming Grant, the event promises to promote economic activity while enhancing cultural engagement through a variety of craft beverages.

Eggstravaganza

On Saturday, March 28, the Hunt Library will host Eggstravaganza, a family-oriented spring event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free to attend, the festivities will feature children’s egg hunts, interactive play zones, food vendors, and even a pet-friendly area. With a budget of $10,000 secured from the Hunt Programming Grant, the event aims to create a multi-generational environment that fosters community interaction.

Thursday Night Farmers Markets

Running from April 2 to September 3, the Thursday Night Farmers Markets at Fullerton Plaza will provide a vibrant outdoor market experience every Thursday evening from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. With vendor costs varying, the $105,000 budget from the General Fund will support small business development and access to local produce, alongside activities for children and live entertainment. The markets may also include FIFA World Cup viewing elements to draw in larger crowds.

Fullerton Fit 5K and Health Fair

Rescheduled for June 6, 2026, the Fullerton Fit 5K and Health Fair will take place at the Fullerton Sports Complex, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. With a registration fee of $40 and a budget of $35,000 from the Brea Dam Fund, this fitness-focused event will promote health awareness through a 5K run, exercise warm-ups, and a health fair showcasing wellness organizations and local vendors.

4th of July – 3 Day Festival

Mark your calendars for a spectacular three-day 4th of July festival from July 3 to July 5, 2026, at Fullerton Plaza. This free event will feature live entertainment, food vendors, rides, community contests, and thrilling special attractions, including a fireworks display on the Fourth and a drone show on the Fifth. With a $325,000 budget from the General Fund, the event is an enhancement to traditional celebrations, coinciding with the United States’s semi-quincentennial.

Friday Night Live Concerts

Throughout August 2026, Fridays will come alive at the Fullerton Sports Complex with free live concerts from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. With a combined budget of $35,000 from the General Fund and Brea Dam Fund, these concerts aim to provide residents with an enjoyable outdoor experience while highlighting local talent.

As these events unfold, the City of Fullerton seeks to strengthen community ties, support local businesses, and create memorable experiences for all. Stay tuned for more details on each event as they approach!

Item 7: The Fullerton City Council will consider a resolution to affirm its control over emergency medical services (EMS)

This decision will underscore the city’s commitment to retaining administrative authority under California Health and Safety Code Section 1797.201, which allows cities that have provided EMS since June 1, 1980, to maintain that control unless transferred to the county.

City staff will present historical records indicating that Fullerton has continuously delivered prehospital EMS without relinquishing its authority to the County of Orange. The proposed resolution is intended to reinforce the city’s position as it transitions from a contracted ambulance service to one staffed with city employees, while maintaining a minimum level of EMS service that aligns with standards established in 1980.

City officials will clarify that the resolution will affirm administrative authority without altering existing medical control obligations set by state law and county policies. These regulations will focus on emergency response services and will not apply to non-emergency operations conducted by private ambulance providers.

The resolution aims to address an existing gap in the municipal code regarding EMS authority, following the repeal of past ordinances regulating private ambulance services. City staff will recommend the adoption of Resolution No. 2026-XXX, which has been approved by the City Attorney’s Office for its form, and further amendments to the municipal code may follow.

As discussions advance, Fullerton’s focus will remain on ensuring high-quality emergency medical services and community safety during this transition.

Item 8: $801,505 AWARD FROM FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 TOBACCO GRANT PROGRAM

The Fullerton City Council will consider the acceptance and appropriation of $801,505 from the California Department of Justice for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Tobacco Grant Program. This funding will be used to reimburse police officerovertime and operational supplies related to tobacco inspection and enforcement activities.

The City plans to allocate these costs within the Grants Fund (Fund 32). Additionally, school resource officers and explorers will provide in-kind services supported by general funds from the adopted department budget.

The California Department of Justice has issued a Request for Proposals aimed at local law enforcement agencies, funded under Proposition 56, which was approved by voters in 2016. The Fullerton Police Department’s grant application for the Tobacco Grant has been approved, with funding effective upon the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding and set to expire on June 30, 2029.

From 2022 to 2026, the Fullerton Police Department utilized Tobacco Grant funding to conduct inspections and enforce compliance with state and local tobacco laws. This new Tobacco Law Enforcement Grant will enable ongoing education for local businesses selling tobacco products, as well as undercover enforcement operations across the City.

Enforcement efforts will focus on violations of Health Safety Code Section 118948, which prohibits smoking in vehicles with minors, and Fullerton Municipal Code Section 9.12.325, banning smoking in designated public areas. The Department Directed Enforcement Team will oversee the program using existing police personnel.

Item 9: WELL 10 PFAS WATER TREATMENT PROJECT GRANT FUNDING AND CEQA EXEMPTION

The City of Fullerton is set to approve a $4.3 million grant application to the State Water Resources Control Board for the Water Well 10 PFAS Water Treatment Project. The grant aims to cover a portion of the project’s construction costs, which total approximately $5.6 million, as part of a broader $8.6 million initiative.

Orange County Water District (OCWD) will finance the design and construction of the treatment plant under an existing 2020 agreement. Fullerton’s involvement will be limited to submitting the grant application and facilitating the funding process, with no financial burden placed on the city itself.

Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the SWRCB is expected to administer funds aimed at reducing PFAS contamination, and Fullerton’s project aligns with eligible criteria for funding. If awarded, the grant will allow OCWD to offset construction expenses, potentially reducing future groundwater replenishment assessments passed on to city water customers.

City officials plan to adopt two resolutions: one authorizing a representative to sign and execute the grant agreement, and another confirming the project’s exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The project, which involves constructing pipelines within public rights-of-way, qualifies for CEQA exemption criteria due to its minimal environmental impact.

In addition, the city will accept and appropriate the grant funds into the PFAS Management in the Water Fund and authorize the City Manager to execute necessary grant documents, ensuring the efficient management of awarded funds. The project is scheduled for completion in 2028.

Item 10: $129,817.28 PURCHASE ORDER WITH NATIONAL FLEET GROUP FOR POLICE CRIME SCENE VAN

The City Council is set to approve a purchase order of $129,817.28 for National Fleet Group to design and build a new Crime Scene Van for the Police Department as part of the Vehicle Replacement Program.

The Fiscal Year 2025-26 Adopted Budget will have adequate funding in the Vehicle Replacement Fund (Fund 64) to cover the cost of the van. This purchase aligns with the Vehicle Replacement schedule and does not require additional appropriations.

The new van will play a crucial role in the Police Department’s daily operations, facilitating the transport of personnel, evidence, and specialized equipment, supporting forensic investigations, and enabling both scheduled and emergency responses. The current crime scene truck, Unit No. 863B, has become unreliable, facing frequent repairs and presenting operational risks.

With the new van, the Police Department anticipates enhanced reliability, improved fuel efficiency, and compliance with emissions and safety standards. The procurement of this vehicle is expected to reduce maintenance costs and mitigate service interruptions, thereby boosting the department’s investigative capabilities and response times.

The staff plans to acquire the replacement van through National Fleet Group using the Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Contract No. 091521-NAF. The Fullerton Municipal Code and City Procurement Policy allow for cooperative purchasing agreements, which streamline the process and are recognized as a best practice among public agencies.

Sourcewell’s bidding procedures will meet purchasing requirements, and National Fleet Group has already been awardedContract No. 091521-NAF. The purchase is anticipated to adhere to City procurement rules while achieving operational efficiency. The acquisition will support the City Equipment Replacement Program, ensuring that the Police Department continues to provide reliable and effective service to the community.

The Administrative Services Director will be authorized, or have a designee, to issue the purchase order to National Fleet Group for the Crime Scene Van.

Item 11: $286,741.24 PURCHASE ORDER WITH COASTLINE EQUIPMENT FOR WHEEL LOADER PURCHASE

The Administrative Services Director will authorize a purchase order of $286,741.24 to Coastline Equipment for one wheel loader, utilizing the Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Contract No. 011723-JDC.

The Fiscal Year 2025–26 Adopted Budget will have adequate funding available within the Vehicle Replacement Fund (Fund 64) for this acquisition. This purchase aligns with the approved Vehicle Replacement Schedule and does not require additional appropriation.

The Public Works Department will depend on the new wheel loader for daily operations such as material handling, excavation, debris removal, and emergency response. The existing unit, No. 611B, will have reached the end of its service life, necessitating frequent repairs that lead to extended downtime and increased risk during critical operations.

The replacement will enhance operational reliability, fuel efficiency, and compliance with emissions safety standards while minimizing maintenance costs and service disruptions. Wheel loaders will be crucial for infrastructure maintenance and rapid response during storms and emergencies.

Staff will recommend proceeding with the purchase through Coastline Equipment as permitted by Fullerton Municipal Code Section 2.64 and City Procurement Policy 4.1.2, which allow cooperative purchasing agreements to bypass formal bidding when contracts have been competitively solicited by other public agencies.

The Sourcewell bidding procedures will meet cooperative purchasing requirements, and Coastline Equipment will be awarded Sourcewell Contract No. 011723-JDC for this vehicle. This purchase will comply with City procurement policy, support the Vehicle Replacement Program, and enable the Public Works Department to maintain reliable service for residents.

Item 12: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH CHANDLER ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC. FOR INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES

The City will solicit Requests for Proposals (RFP) from qualified firms to provide Investment Management professional services. Staff will recommend awarding a Management Agreement to Chandler Asset Management, Inc., a firm with extensive experience in California public agency investment management services.

The investment services management fees under the professional services agreement with Chandler Asset Management, Inc. will be structured as follows:

  • – Up to $50 million: 9 basis points (0.09%)
  • – Next $50 million: 6 basis points (0.06%)
  • – Over $100 million: 4 basis points (0.04%)

The agreement will include a 20% discount in Year 1, resulting in a total cost of $80,800 for the first year and $101,000 for each subsequent year. The FY 2025-26 Adopted Budget will allocate funds for Investment Management Services within the Administrative Services Department in the General Fund (Fund 10).

Public Trust Advisors, the current investment management services provider, will have managed the City’s investment portfolio since 2014, with the latest amendment to the Agreement set to expire on December 31, 2025. The City will issue an RFP to find a qualified investment management partner to oversee the City investment portfolio in line with the City Investment Policy Statement and cash flow needs.

The City will release the RFP on July 1, 2025, through its e-Procurement platform, OpenGov, with proposals due by August 7, 2025. Six proposals from experienced investment management firms will be received and evaluated by a raterpanel.

A Rating Panel composed of four external panelists and the Interim Administrative Services Director will evaluate the proposals based on the following criteria:

  1. Qualifications of the Firm
  2. Project Management Approach
  3. Detailed Work Plan
  4. Fee / Cost Proposal

Staff will invite the top two firms, Public Trust Advisors, LLC and Chandler Asset Management, Inc., for interviews on November 12, 2025. Staff will ultimately recommend awarding the investment management services contract to Chandler Asset Management, Inc. due to its proven track record in managing public agency portfolios, experienced personnel, a comprehensive work plan, and strong investment program oversight.

Chandler Asset Management, Inc. currently manages $42.4 billion in assets and has specialized in fixed income since 1988. With over 200 local government clients, including 150 public agencies in California, Chandler has consistently outperformed appropriate benchmarks for several clients as of June 30, 2025. Their services will include technical analysis and market research, credit analysis, monthly portfolio reporting, and cash flow analysis.

Item 13: LEASE AGREEMENT WITH CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY FULLERTON AUXILIARY SERVICES CORPORATION FOR RICHMAN CENTER

The City of Fullerton and CSU Fullerton will propose a lease agreement for City-owned property at 320 West Elm Avenue, specifically the Richman Center and the Don Castro Building at Richman Park. The agreement will outline community programming and services with an initial five-year lease term, along with two optional five-year extensions.

The lease will generate $66,774.19 in annual rent, with payments during the initial phase going towards a Tenant Improvement Project aimed at bringing the premises into compliance with ADA standards. Once completed, rent payments will fund the General Fund (Fund 10).

The City will aim to bring all City-owned buildings into ADA compliance based on available funding and project timelines. The tenant-led, City-approved improvements will support infrastructure goals and enhance the asset value of the City, while the City will continue to handle necessary capital repairs.

CSU Fullerton has collaborated with the City of Fullerton since January 2015 to offer civic and social enrichment programming at the Richman Center under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership has become a vital resource for the neighborhood, as CSU Fullerton provides accessible community-based services for youth, families, and adults.

After the City discontinued after-school and summer programming at the Don Castro building in 2022 due to budget constraints, CSU Fullerton will expand its operations at both Richman Park facilities to continue delivering community support and programming. Services will include tutoring, parenting and health classes, case management, resource referrals, and family-oriented events, all aimed at strengthening neighborhood access to educational and social resources.

Both parties will seek to formalize their relationship through a Lease Agreement to ensure long-term operational stability. The proposed terms will align with those established with similar community partners, such as the YMCA at the Maple Neighborhood Center and OC United at the Gilbert Center. The structure will require the lessee to pay monthly rent to cover utilities, custodial services, and routine maintenance, while the City will retain responsibility for capital repairs, allowing CSU Fullerton to focus on providing high-quality, community-focused programming.

Item 14: LEASE AGREEMENT WITH NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS, LLC FOR CELLULAR TOWER OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE AT 3151 NORTH EUCLID STREET

The City of Fullerton is set to approve a lease agreement with New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC for a 1,045 square-foot land lease at 3151 North Euclid Street. This new lease will enable the installation and maintenance of communications systems on City-owned property.

In the first year of the lease, anticipated revenue is projected to reach $60,000 for the General Fund, marking a 16 percent increase compared to the previous agreement. The lease will have a five-year term, retroactively starting on November 21, 2025, and will include three automatic five-year renewals, totaling 20 years. The lease rate will increase by 3 percent annually, aligning with California Department of General Services standard rates for government-owned facilities.

This agreement follows discussions with New Cingular Wireless after the expiration of the previous lease. The new terms will leverage existing infrastructure and allow for the installation of equipment necessary for telecommunications operations. Additionally, the tenant has requested a 20-foot-wide right of way for access from the nearest public right of way.

It is important to note that this lease agreement does not confer regulatory approval, and New Cingular Wireless will still need to adhere to the standard permitting process for telecommunications facilities. The City has established lease rates based on CADGS standardized telecom rate guidelines, with the proposed structure falling under the prime urban category for facilities in designated urban areas. The City will continue to seek lease agreements that meet market standards for potential telecom operators.

Item 15: COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH CITY OF ANAHEIM FOR RAYMOND AVENUE REHABILITATION

The City of Fullerton will approve a Cooperative Agreement with the City of Anaheim for the rehabilitation of Raymond Avenue between Burton Street and Orangethorpe Avenue. The project, part of the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Capital Improvement Program Budget, will use approximately $1.2 million in allocated street improvement funds, with Anaheim reimbursing Fullerton for about $481,000 of the design and construction costs.

The City Council has identified this rehabilitation as a priority in the CIP Budget to address the deteriorated conditions onthis segment of roadway. The two cities began discussions in June 2025 about a joint project to enhance efficiency and reduce disruptions for motorists and residents. The improvements will include asphalt pavement rehabilitation, curb, gutter and sidewalk repairs, driveway approach reconstruction, and access curb ramp upgrades. Notably, new sidewalks will be installed on the eastern side of Raymond Avenue, which currently lacks pedestrian access.

The Cooperative Agreement will outline the roles and funding commitments for both agencies, with Fullerton serving as the lead agency for design and construction. Anaheim will manage all reviews, inspections, and associated costs within its jurisdiction.

Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with a projected completion date in August 2026. Both cities will inform affected residents and businesses about upcoming construction and its potential impacts. 


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8 replies »

  1. Since New Years Eve First Night was cancelled due to weather this year – let’s revisit repurposing those $200,000 + funding for helping immigrant residents of Fullerton targeted by ICE.
    Also hope residents will ay attention to the two water quality reports in the agenda.

  2. Looks like Javier is referring to federal immigration law. Let’s ensure people coming here legally who have been waiting patiently in line and following the rules are rewarded.

  3. Consuela – you seem unaware that people who have been going through the legal system, those with green cards, those married to US citizens, those who were brought to the US as children and grew up here, those who have been working and living here for decades – and even US citizens are being attacked by ICE – kidnapped while working, going to school, church, shopping or showing up to mandatory court dates in the legal citizenship process. These are not criminals – the worst of the worst – etc – these are people who contribute to our community and are our neighbors.
    No one would be complaining if actual criminals were being removed – but that is not what is happening.

    • I am actually quite aware of those people respectful of our immigration system and the rules as my cousin is doing right now. It takes time, effort and some money, but it’s worth it. He’ll make it happen the legal way and is not fearful of law enforcement.

      Your words and misinformation (sorry that the news media is lying to you) are not helpful:
      – “…being attacked by ICE – kidnapped while…” These are not attacks, so don’t be dramatic. These are not kidnappings, so don’t spread hyperbolic misinformation.
      – “…if actual criminals were being removed…” You’re advertising your ignorance as this is what the main purpose of federal immigration enforcement is doing now. In cities where local law enforcement complies with federal law enforcement, criminals are being removed smoothly. When local law enforcement doesn’t cooperate and local citizens obstruct, that’s when bad things can happen.

      • Consuela – I am happy the process is working for your cousin – and hope that continues. Yes I have been seeing numerous videos taken by residents and news agencies and get some of my information from those eye-witness reports. I also have information from an immigration attorney who says her clients – all obeying the rules of the process – are being attacked by ICE at the courthouse when they appear for mandatory check-ins. Possibly you are the one who is misinformed.

      • Bad things? The secret to happiness in life is lowered expectations.

        I’m sure you’re a very happy person.

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