City Council - Regular Meeting

Yeah. You can talk among yourselves. The meeting please come to order thank you for your patience this is the city council regular adjourned meeting of 01/13/2026 The time is 05:25. At this time I would like to invite our clerk Mr. Carl Peterson to please call the roll.

Councilmember Carroll. Here. Councilmember Go. Here. Councilmember Liu. Here. Councilmember Martinez Franco. Here. Councilmember Trusieder. Here. Vice Mayor Mai.

Here.

And Mayor Agram.

Here. Mr. Peterson, would you, at this time, tell people at home and those present here as well how they can participate, particularly how they can participate in tonight's meeting remotely.

Thank you, mayor. Members of our audience who wish to speak may submit their name into one of the speaker kiosks next to the city clerk or in the main lobby. We also offer the ability to provide live comments via Zoom and submit written comments through our e comment system. For those who wish to participate virtually, visit zoom.us using any web browser 100

or the Zoom app on smartphones or tablets and enter meeting ID 100060444.

The passcode is 272906. You may also dial in by calling (669) 254-5252 or (669) 216-1590 and entering the same meeting ID and passcode. Those who wish to provide comments via Zoom are asked to enter the speaker queue by raising their hand electronically. The city clerk will call your name and allow you to unmute your microphone at the appropriate time. Those dialing in by telephone will be identified by the last three digits of their telephone number.

We ask that you please state your name for the record. The time limits per speaker are noted in the posted agenda and are established based on the number of requests submitted. All requests submitted after the first speaker is called shall receive ninety seconds. Those who wish to provide written comments may do so by clicking e comment on the city council meeting agenda webpage at cityofirvine.org/ictv. All comments will be provided to the city council as part of the meeting record and will be uploaded to the city's website.

For technical assistance with Zoom before or during the meeting, please call (949) 724-6078. For any other questions or assistance, please contact the city clerk's office at (949) 724-6205 or via e mail at clerkcityburvine dot org. You mayor.

Thank you Mr. Peterson thank you to my colleagues and for those who are participating tonight. At this time I' like to in a moment ask people to rise for the pledge of allegiance which tonight will be presented by vice mayor my he will be leading us in the pledge of please those who are able remain standing will have an invocation at that time which I'l introduce once we' finished with the pledge. With that I'll turn to Vice Mayor Mai who will lead us in the pledge tonight. Those who are able please rise.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of The United States Of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. At this time about half of you got it right. At this time, it's my pleasure to welcome the Reverend Thomas Chesley from a touch of love works. Thank you reverend for joining us tonight and leading us in the invocation and welcome.

Thank you mayor aegren and city council bervine for inviting me to do the invocation of gotten permission from the mayor to add a little something something on the top called the declaration of independence If you will bear with me ill try to get through it without any unnecessary pauses. We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights that among these are life liberty and the pursuit of happiness that to secure these rights governments are instituted among men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed and whenever any form of the government becomes destructive of these ends it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it and to institute new government laying its foundations on such principles and organizing its powers in such form that to them shall see most likely to affect their safety and happiness. Prudence indeed will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transit causes and accordingly all experience has shown that mankind is more disposed to suffer while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the form for which they have been accustomed but when a long chain of abuses and use of patience pursuing invariably the same object events are designed to reduce them under absolute deputism it is their right it is their duty to throw off such government and to provide new guys for their future security this is the declaration of independence it' a living document it was alive in 1776 when our founders wrote it it was alive in 1968 when Martin Luther King quoted it and it' be alive in 2027 when we go to vote and I thank you for everybody who is in this room and I pray now father in the name of Jesus that you would come and unify us Lord God make us a people who are who are routed and rooted in love help us lord god to be mindful that we are our brother's keeper we are our sister's keeper and everything we do lord god should have you in mind and have the welfare of the people that we live with and the people we work with and the people who are beside us and behind us and in front of us.

I pray that you would bind us together like a three pronged cord that's not easily broken and help us to walk in love for the rest of this year in your name I pray amen.

Please be seated. Thank you, reverend. We need to invite you back for the July 4 festivities here in in Irvine and elsewhere. Thank you. At this time, we have a number of presentations this evening listed as items one point one and one point two.

The clerk please identify these presentations by title.

Thank you, mayor. Presentation item 1.1 is to proclaim 01/13/2026 as Korean American Day. Item 1.2 is to proclaim 01/19/2026 as Doctor. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. And an item 1.3 is a presentation by the Irvine Barclay theater.

Thank you. We do the presentation on the Irvine Barclay theater, we will be back at the dais here, right?

That's correct.

And now, it's my pleasure to step down to the podium for the first two items, beginning with item 1.1.

Mr. Mayor, if I may ask before you do that, if I could ask for a formal motion to approve the two proclamations that you'll be presenting.

Thank you. So moved, I'll move approval of items one point one and one point two. Is there a second?

I'll second.

Seconded by councilmember lu. Would the clerk we have to await public comment.

Correct and we do have one public comment. Apologize for not mentioning that senator.

All right Public comment would be at this time? Correct. All right. Do we have requests for public comment under items one point one and one point two?

We have one request in person.

One request. Why don't you call that person forward at this time?

Thank you, mayor. If I could call forward Jason Garfield. And Mr. Garfield is speaking to presentation item 1.2, which is the Doctor. Martin Luther King Jr. Day proclamation.

Thank you. So, I'd like to express my most fervent support for this proclamation. Doctor. King's legacy is that he appealed, he criticized this country, but appealed to its highest values. And he was able to strike a balance which a lot of people today, even the most well intentioned among us, struggle with, which is criticizing America while also loving it.

And I would like to also thank the pastor who spoke for echoing the words the Declaration of Independence. Whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it and to institute new government laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form as to them shall seek most shall seem most likely to affect their safety and happiness. So, I

would

be remiss. It is important, it is relevant and legitimate to apply Doctor. King's legacy to the current era. And we've seen political assassinations, unfortunately, over the past year in our country. But the people who are the most thoroughly upholding Doctor.

King's legacy at this moment in the world right now are the people of Iran. And just as Doctor. King was murdered for standing for freedom and standing for those inalienable rights, Hundreds, thousands, we don't know the full death toll and probably will not for a while, are being gunned down in the streets for fighting for those same essential rights. If we wish to fully honor the legacy of Doctor. King, then I believe that to honor that legacy involves acknowledging, paying attention, and carefully watching what's going on all over the world. Thank you.

Mr. Mayor we do have one request item 1.3 which is the barley presentation. I'll leave it up to you if you want to take that public comment now or wait until that item comes forward.

Why don' we wait on that one since we' acted on one point one and one point two let' defer for a moment about 1.3.

Thank you mayor that' all the public comments for eleven and twelve.

I' going to step down to the podium next to the city clerk at which time we' proceed with the presentation of the proclamations. The first proclamation is one that's near and dear to my heart proclaiming 01/13/2026 as Korean American day. This is a proclamation that was born here in the city of Irvine through the leadership and initiative of our former council member and he went on to become mayor and is here with us tonight councilmember suki kang. Suki would you like to come forward at this time. Is Joanne here as well?

Is Joanne here? Oh, she couldn't make. Okay. She was going to. Okay. My daughter called, so she had to go take it. Got it. And the grandkids. I know the routine. Suki Kang introduced himself to me in 2003, actually at the end of 2002, I believe.

Introduced himself to me as a resident of Irvine, Korean American who had immigrated to The United States and wound up in the Los Angeles area and then here in Irvine, where he's been pretty much ever since. And he took the initiative to familiarize me with the fact that 2003 was the one hundred year anniversary, the centennial of the first Koreans migrating to The United States. At that time, to Hawaii, and then later, of course, to the Mainland. And the story ever since has been one of just remarkable struggle and success. And of course, everyone here knows the Korean American community is one of the wonderful, diverse communities that comprise Irvine now.

And I wanted to turn to you, Suki, to say a few words if you like. I also will be calling up, well, why don't I call up others right now as well, representatives from the following organizations to come on up to the podium in this area here. The representatives from the Korean American Federation of Orange County, come on down. Korean American Chamber of Commerce of Orange County, the Korean American Center, California Taekwondo Committee, UCI Korean Alumni Association, IKPA, the Irvine Korean Parent Association representative as well, and the Orange County Korean Cultural Center. If I've left anybody out who regards themselves as important, come on down right now.

With that, I'm going to turn to our former mayor to say a few words. And I think we' going to have a nice picture and I think I may invite my colleagues down to join us for that as well. Suki.

Thank you mayor mayor grin and honorable city council member thank you so much for inviting all of us and for recognizing this momentous occasion truly appreciate the city of Irvine commemorating the korean american day as mayor said twenty three years Standing here today is especially meaningful to me. As mayor mentioned I still remember my very first day meeting with the mayor. I didn't know how to contact but somehow we got connected. And, asked the city council to proclaim the centennial celebration of the Korean American immigration. At that time, I just had one request to be made.

The 103 Korean immigrants to Hawaii landed in Hawaii on 01/13/1903. Who are actually the first group of people who immigrated looking for opportunity, freedom, and a better future. And, Irvine was the first city ever to recognize the Korean American day throughout the country. So, this proclamation meant a great deal to the Korean American community and it symbolized something larger. That Irvine is a city they embrace, values, and celebrates its people and diversity.

Today, one hundred and twenty three years later, Korean Americans play an integral role of the fabric of this nation. We are contributing to America's economy, culture, and democracy while remain deeply grateful for the opportunities this country has provided. On a personal note, who would have imagined that a first generation Korean immigrant would one day have the honor of serving as mayor of Irvine, the first Korean American mayor in a major US city, And, later, could serve our nation as a presidential appointee, regional administrator at USGSA. So, my journey reflects the broader Korean American story, one of perseverance, civic engagement, and giving back to the community. Korean American Day is not only about remembering our past, but also about reaffirming our commitment to the future, Strengthening our communities supporting the next generation and continuing to serve this great city and the great nation.

So with all my heart once again thank you mayor and council members and everyone joining us at this chamber and from home, thank you for honoring the Korean American day today. Thank you.

Thank you so much, Suki. And it's my honor of course to be able to present this proclamation. There are notable whereas' here. The key one being that whereas the centennial committees of Korean immigration and Korean Americans have designated this date January 13 of each year as Korean American day to commemorate the first step of the long and prosperous journey of Korean Americans in The United States. Now therefore the city council of the City of Irvine does hereby proclaim 01/13/2026 as Korean American Day and encourages all residents to recognize and celebrate this special day.

Thank you all stay where you are I' going to invite my council colleagues to come down we' take a picture and we' be famous all right? Thank you. We now move on to our proclamation declaring proclaiming 01/19/2026 as doctor martin Luther king jr day. We are also honored to have representatives from several organizations in attendance this evening to celebrate this special day that honors the extraordinary legacy of Doctor. Martin Luther King Jr.

I would like to now invite forward the representatives from the various organizations to join me at the podium. Please come forward if you' here. Black chamber of commerce of orange county. Hi Bobby come on forward. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Orange County Branch, NAACP, is there a representative here?

Wonderful. The Thurgood Marshall Bar Association, Fellow lawyer. Thank you. Welcome. The Cross Cultural Center at UCI.

The Christ our Redeemer AME Church. And members who are here in attendance from the city of Irvine diversity equity and inclusion advisory committee Any of you are present please come forward. Welcome. Leon good to see you again. So, it's now my pleasure to present the proclamation. So, who's first among equals? Is this to you, Bobby?

I guess so.

Alright. Well, let me let me have the proclamation here, which I will I will take the liberty of reading in full it's not long but it is very impactful. This is proclaiming doctor Martin Luther King jr day 01/19/2026 whereas 01/19/2026 commemorates the fortieth anniversary of the observance of doctor. Martin Luther King jr. Day a federal holiday which was signed into legislation in 1983 and first observed in 1986 and whereas on 08/23/1994 congress passed the king holiday and service act of 1994 which for the first time combined a national holiday with a national day of service I might add that we observe heartily here in the City of Irvine and whereas doctor king's faith courage and leadership helped the nation move closer to the ideals of what America was founded upon and continues to inspire americans and whereas doctor king's legacy is recognized on this day and americans are encouraged to volunteer in civic and community programs to honor the pioneering civil rights leader now therefore the city council the City of irvine does hereby proclaim 01/19/2026 as doctor Martin Luther King junior day and encourages all residents not just here in Irvine but all residents wherever they might reside to participate in civic community and service projects to commemorate the spirit of this national day of service.

Thank you all.

Thank you, Mary Agrian. Thank you, City Council members. Today is to receive this proclamation, as we've always done, from the City of Irvine. It's truly wonderful, but today is a little bit more significant. This is going to be the fifteenth anniversary this year of the Doctor.

Martin Luther King Memorial being built on the mall in Washington, D. C. It was the first mall built, of course, through my fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, but the good news about that all that money the 127,000,000 came from Americans it did not come from the federal government when you leave the Auditorium Semen and you see that telephone pole outside 30 foot tall It's like 30 feet well, 10 feet below, 30 foot tall. That's how tall the monument is. 27 feet deep, 27 feet wide.

So, now you get an appearance and a feeling for it. I just want to say that one of the quotes one of the 14 quotes that are around the monument, kind of my famous one, but it's apropos for tonight. Doctor. King says or mentioned that I wished my four kids would grow up to be judged by the, not by the color of their skin, but the content of their character. Tonight, mayor, city council members, Irvine staff, Irvine Police Department, all of you are characters of great content. Thank you.

Before inviting my colleagues down for a photograph, anybody else have something to say? Alright, it's covered? Alright, why don't my colleagues join us for yet one more photograph. And thank you so much for coming down tonight. Thank you again to all the wonderful participants tonight.

I' going to turn to our city clerk for technicality to make everything official that we' done. Please call the roll on the motion that was offered earlier with respect to the proclamations.

Thank you, Mayor. On the motion to approve the proclamations, you made the motion. Council Member Lee seconded. Council Member Carroll.

Yes.

Councilmember Goh is absent from the dais Councilmember Lu. Yes. Councilmember Martinez Franco. Yes. Councilmember Trusieder.

Yes.

Vice Mayor Mai. Yes. Mayor Agram. Yes. Carries unanimously of the members present.

Thank you that takes us to item 1.3 with the clerk please identify that item by title and subject.

Thank you mayor item 1.3 is a presentation by the irvine barkley theater.

Thank you I understand tonight we have an important leader from the irvine parkley theater joining us great would you like to come forward at this time please. We welcome your presentation this is an annual event most people in town don' know this but the barkley theater that wonderful barkley theater the theater itself is owned by the city of irvine. We annually contribute about $1,500,000 to its operations. The university of california at irvine owns the land on which the theater sits. And, of course, there's a wonderful supportive nonprofit group that raises the money and helps the theater to do all the wonderful things you do for the city of irvine and for so many others.

I think I've given your report haven't I?

Pretty much. It's been lovely thank you did a much better job than probably I will do.

Welcome. Go right ahead.

Good evening Mr. Mayor and members of the city council I' pleased to come before you this evening to offer my annual review of the barkley and its activities during this its thirty fifth anniversary year. My presentation is a bit over seven minutes long and then I will be pleased to take questions following my remarks. As you know the barkley is the result of a unique public private partnership between the city u c irvine and the nonprofit operating company this highly successful partnership has endured for forty years because it has consistently delivered real value to the community the city's public art committee recently recognized this value when they included the barkley as a key element of the city's public arts master plan advocating that the city sustain its support for and maintain its involvement with what it called Irvine's flagship performing arts facility. The barkley has a three part mission to operate and maintain the venue for the community's use provide production marketing and sales support to community organizations who use the theater and put on programs.

Since its opening in 1990, more than 5,000 performances and 1,800 rehearsals have taken place at the Berkeley. This last season, close to 300 activities took place in the Berkeley. And a little known fact is that each season, more than 50% of the activity taking place at the barkley are events created and presented by community schools cultural groups performing arts organizations and local businesses this past season 150 activities 53% of the total were created by local community organizations To support this work the barkley has an annual budget of approximately $8,000,000 71% of which is the operating company's responsibility we raise that through rents ticket sales and our own fundraising original partnership agreement included a ratio of operating support from the city and university which is shown here and two years ago the barkley was encouraged by the city to apply for program funding we did so and we're grateful to receive that support which now equals 5% of our budget You see the city support comes in two forms operating support and programmatic support and I''ll talk about each of those separately starting with community programs and events. The city''s operating support underwrites community uses of the barkley it allows us to offer 50% discounts on all rental to Irvine based nonprofits and 25% discount on all rental rates to all other nonprofit organizations.

Earlier I showed you a chart that showed 50% of the programming and this is the left hand side of the slide and how the funding matches up against that. We charge those organizations what' effectively 35% of our budget and the city' operating support makes up the remaining 15%. I' now like to take a moment to talk about the many community educational, cultural, performing arts events that take place each year at the Berkeley. Educational programs from the community run the gamut from preschool students to high school students to the adults who provide outstanding education to all students of Irvine. Here are some of the many educational organizations that use the barkley each season.

I've mentioned frequently tonight that many local culture organizations use the barkley to present programs of specific interest to their communities. I'm pleased to say that over the course of each season the Berkeley is home to a wide range of programs that fully represent the broad diversity of cultures that call Irvine home. Here are some of the many cultural organizations that use the Berkeley each season. As a performing arts center the Berkeley does of course provide a stage for a wide range of performing arts organizations in music, theater, comedy, and other genres. And then here are some of the many performing arts organizations that use the Berkeley each season.

More specifically in the performing arts, the Berkeley has, because of its large stage generous wings and sprung dance floor established itself as the spiritual home of dance in Orange County being a home for classical dance ethnic dance programs and of course the nutcracker which has been on the Berkeley stage each season for thirty five years Here are some of the many dance companies, competitions, and schools that use the Berkeley each season for their programs. I would like to turn my remarks to the city's programmatic support. As I said before the city's programming support makes possible these four programs and I will now speak about each of them in turn. Community use days twelve days each year are reserved by the city and they are provided rent free to community organizations designated by the city through an application process overseen by the community and library services department. The community access ticket program each year makes up to 2,000 complimentary tickets available to audiences with limited discretionary means these are typically distributed through partner organizations with constituencies who match the program's goals.

Our most mature program is the partnership with the Vetix Foundation because of the city's generous support we've been able to offer 6,300 complimentary tickets to veterans active service members first responders and their families. One of the best parts of this program is that these tickets get used at a 98 rate this is unusual because industry use rates for complimentary tickets are generally under 5%. We know these folks truly appreciate the opportunity they are given because they attend in such large numbers. We and they are truly grateful for the city's support in making this valuable program possible. The final program supported by the city is the barkley's family series coming out of Covet the barkley dropped family programming from its content because the cost of the program simply couldn't be covered by family friendly ticket prices Audience surveys continually told us the community wanted us to bring back family programming so we included this as part of our program funding proposal to the city.

The agreement was for us to put up two titles a year. Last year we were able to put up three with no additional cost to city and sold the series out because of that success this year we expanded to four titles again at no additional cost to the city and here are the three programs in the series remaining for this year and tickets can be purchased at www.thebarkeley.org. I've so far talked a great deal about funding and programs but not much about audiences and so I'd like to take a moment to talk about that subject. Since returning to live in person performances following COVID, 430,000 tickets have been sold to programs at the barley which is a remarkable number when you consider we're a seven fifty seat venue more than 53,000 households have purchased those tickets from forty nine fifty states the biggest portion of our audience is obviously Orange County and 'm going to skip here because I'm getting ahead of myself so looking the future of Barclays work to be responsive to community input the number one item we hear about is insufficient restrooms we hear about a need for breakout rooms a second performance space on-site catering and finally we know there simply aren't enough rehearsal spaces in the community one emerging idea is to retain the current auditorium and backstage areas and provide all the new support and amenities in the structure that would wrap around the current auditorium working with Irvine based architectural firm l p a the board and staff at the barkeley along with other community stakeholders have developed a concept of one way the new structure might look these are some of the current project renderings and want you to know that the barkley board of directors and staff are very excited about the many possibilities for expanded service of the community represented by this project.

With that I''ll conclude my remarks thank you again for the opportunity to address you this evening and I'' pleased to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you by the way since you didn' introduce yourself fully this is for those who have not met Craig before Craig Springer president of the Irvine Barclay theater, and a delight to work with. Let me ask my colleagues if they have any questions or comments. This would be the appropriate time. I don't see any requests so let me just jump in with one or two things. First of all, these future plans are very, very exciting.

I think I want to just take a moment to note that obviously the theater was, as so many other facilities and programs, was under tremendous pressure during the covet pandemic did just an amazing job in adapting. I followed it very closely.

Thank you.

And you come out of all of that healthy financially. I love your dynamic pricing system. The fact that the city added I think it was half $1,000,000 a year with the express hope belief that those dollars would help generate new generations of audiences, particularly among those for whom the pricing of theater tickets was just beyond their means. And that the Barclay has followed through on that is, for me, a source of real satisfaction. And I think it helps ensure just remarkable success going forward.

I just wanted to weigh in with those remarks. Anybody else have anything? No? Yes, Council Member Liu. Oh, there we are. Go ahead.

So I wanted to say that when I first moved to Irvine, well, almost twenty one years ago now, people were saying oh my gosh you are moving to a cultural desert but we' not. We have barclay here and thank you for providing the opportunity to show my kids nutcracker and classical music, ballet, and other culture activities so I really appreciate your presence here thank you.

My pleasure we' always grateful for the support of the city and we love the partnership and look forward to continue for many years.

Thank you councilmember martinez franco.

Thank you I wanted to thank you personally as a board member of the barkley theater it has been a couple of times that I've been there. It's just amazing. I never imagined all the behind the scenes that goes towards the production of a play and all the efforts that you've been doing in order to keep this play successful. I just wanted to congratulate you for also opening for diverse type of events. I know that I enjoy the Dia de los Muertos.

It's one of my favorite ones. It's open to the public and free for everybody. So I think doing those kind of things for the community, it's great. Also thank you so much for taking the input from the city on the new design for renovations.

I see no further request. Let me just say one more thing. I love your advertising your TV advertising. This

is our vice president of marketing chris adrians he is a critical part of our success and I know we' been successful because almost everywhere I go now someone will say to me I cannot get the jingle out of my head.

United debarker. United debarker. Thank you so much for all you do. Thanks for the presentation tonight. Think we do have any requests from citizens to be heard on this item?

Thank you mayor we do have one from Doug Elliot.

I see Mr. Elliot approaching the podium now welcome.

Thank you mayor and happy new year to all of you. I' Doug Elliot the community and library services commissioner speaking only for myself. We' heard three very worthy presentations tonight but I just wanted to add some comments on this one because I' such a fan of the barley. When I joined the commission a couple of years ago I was asked some questions for a brief bio that I think was councilmember trecedar's newsletter and one of the questions was what are your favorite places to go in Irvine and I said the barley without hesitation and two years later I'll stand by that answer I have just had so many great experiences seeing world class performances in this wonderful intimate jewel box of a facility. Every seat is a good one here right on top of the action and it' just wonderful.

I wanted to comment in particular on some of the things that I' enjoyed about the barkley one is the emphasis on jazz it' become really a dynamic leader in the Orange County jazz scene and especially with the creation of the barkley jazz and beyond orchestra which I think I' heard all of their performances and want to keep going to those are terrific they' all local musicians they do an outstanding job. The other thing that I just discovered for the first time I say discovered I knew about it but I hadn' been to one of these they do live screenings of performances of stage shows from London. Sunday was a showing of doctor strange love production from the noll coward theater. It was terrific it got rave reviews in London and it was just so great to pay for basically the price of a movie or a little bit more maybe and see this stage presentation technologically perfect beamed from London and be able to join it also. I just can' say enough about the barkley I'm excited by these plans for the future and anxious to see them come about thank you.

Thank you Mr. Elliott for your service on the community services commission. With that I think let' make this completely official with a motion to receive and file the annual report.

Happy to do that mayor. Also move.

Is there a second? Second.

Seconded by Vice Mayor Mai. Will the clerk please call the roll.

Councilmember go. Yes. Councilmember Liu. Yes. Councilmember Martinez Franco. Yes. Councilmember Trecedor.

Yes.

Vice Mayor Mai. Yes. Mayor Agram. Yes. Carries six to zero of the members present. Thank you again, Greg.

All right. That allows us to move on now to the next item on the agenda which is public comments on non agendized items. This is the opportunity for residents and others to briefly comment on items that are not on the official agenda for this evening, but are one way or another within our subject matter jurisdiction. This is part of our state and local commitment to free speech and opportunities to participate civically as to matters on the agenda and in this case not on the agenda. With that do we have any requests to be heard?

Mr. Peterson.

Thank you mayor. We have 15 requests to speak. 12 are in person, three on zoom.

Wow, 15. All right. So let's limit those to no more than two minutes and let's close the queue at this point, all right? With that, please call on the first public commenter. Thank you, mayor. If I

could call forward Susan Sayer, Ali Benava, Alan Meyerson, Caitlin Everett, and Rima N. And we'll start with Susan Sayer.

Welcome, Ms. Sayer. You have two minutes.

Good afternoon my name is Susan Sayer and I' a longtime Irvine resident and I' a senior who will someday rely on public transportation. Irvine is undergoing a huge residential tourism hospital and business related growth are already clogged streets will surely undergo a substantial increase in residential tourism and employee traffic To be successful irvine connect needs to meet the growing demand for public transportation by all these groups and the needs of the ridership we not only need increased number of public transportation routes which take us where we want to go we also need service hours that accommodate all employee work shifts and access to entertainment and medical treatment venues and hospitality venues and hotels. We also need improved public transportation infrastructure such as bus routes located on major streets such as Jamboree Culver Alton Campus Jeffrey Sand Canyon where commercial businesses schools and universities hospitals and medical offices and senior community facilities are located We need dedicated public transportation lanes without which buses will suffer traffic related delays and be unable to meet a published and relied upon transportation schedules. Bus stop curb pull outs are needed which do not block traffic or bicycle lanes pedestrian bridges that cross major thoroughfare intersections near commercial and business venues are needed bus stops and park and ride lots should be located at the Irvine Train Station and at freeway on ramps and exits.

You.

Thank

you miss chair and welcome sir.

Mr. Mayor and members of council good evening my name is a resident of Irvine for twenty one years I want to begin by acknowledging that this dais does not take political positions and focuses on our city's matters, and I respect that role. So I'm speaking today not on behalf of the council, but in my capacity as president of IPA, one of the city of Irvine's unions. And as a proud Irvine resident and a proud Iranian American, on behalf of our Iranian members, many of whom have family, friends, and loved ones living under constant fear. As a union and a community grounded in shared values, we strongly condemn the Iranian regime's brutal and savage attacks against its own people.

Peaceful protesters, students, women, workers, and children have been met with gunshots, violence, mass arrests, torture, and even execute execution for simple acts of demanding basic human rights and dignity. This is not about partisan politics or foreign policy. This is about human rights. It's about standing against the killing and repression of civilians who whose only demand is freedom. For Iranian Americans, this pain is deeply personal.

Silence can feel like abandonment. Speaking out, especially from democratic institutions matters. It tells victims they are seen, and it tells oppressors that the world is watching. On behalf of our Iranian members, we stand in solidarity with people of Iran and condemn the violence inflicted upon them by their own government. Thank you for allowing me to speak,

Thank you for

all that you do for our city. Far end about Iran.

Thank you very much for your

comments. Alan Meyerson.

Welcome.

Good evening councilmembers. Meyerson. Tonight, the Doctor. King presentation touched me. People should be judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. Truthfulness, honesty, integrity. When I think about those things and I think about politicians, I don't see a whole lot of that. I'm not necessarily speaking about any of you up there, but just in general, truthfulness, honesty, integrity. What does that mean to me? To me that means when somebody runs a campaign and they promise to vote certain ways on certain subjects and then they follow through and do not vote the way they said they were going to vote, that's dishonest.

I have seen that happen on the dais for probably the last ten or twelve years. People running campaigns saying they were going to vote a certain way on a certain subject and then when they got elected turned around and voted just the opposite that they said they were going to vote. That's dishonest. That's not integrity. And, it's kind of a disappointment to me.

It's kind of shameful. I would hope I'm watching the football playoffs and I was thinking about football teams and the coaches on football teams and how they get the teams to work altogether. Because the only way they're going to win is if they work altogether. They don't win if they split four to three or five to two or three to four, they don't win anything. You guys have to work together to get things accomplished in the city.

Don't turn into an events center where you're just doing fourth of July celebrations and spending a lot of money on that stuff. Work together to get real things accomplished. There' a lot of things that need to be done and there' a lot of money that needs to be spent. I don' really know where it' going to come from, but the only way it' going to happen and that' going to get accomplished is if you all work together. So think about it. Do it. Do the right thing for the city.

Thank you. Kaitlyn Everett. Welcome.

Good evening. My name is Caitlin Everett and I'm 17 years old. As vice president of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation's Take Steps Youth Leadership Committee, I advocate for those affected by inflammatory bowel disease. Today I'm presenting the importance of IBD awareness and how we can reduce the stigma surrounding this invisible illness. Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, is a chronic autoimmune condition causing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

It causes pain, fatigue, and malnutrition, yet there is still no cure. This condition affects students, working professionals, parents, and seniors right here in our community. Today, I'm respectfully requesting a proclamation for the city of Irvine to recognize World IBD Day on May 19, aiming to raise awareness and decrease the stigma surrounding this disease. I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2019 at only 10 years old. After my diagnosis, I learned that living with IBD was more than finding effective treatments to manage my I encountered barriers at school when my five zero four accommodations were often dismissed by my teachers.

At the same time, the stigma surrounding digestive issues made it difficult to speak openly with my family and friends, and I began to feel isolated from my peers. Last year, I had the opportunity of being a member of the Take Steps Youth Leadership Committee, And now, as Vice President in my second year, I am proud to give back to the community that supported me through chronic illness. I empower others to find strength in their IBD, rather than feel limited or defined by it. My story is just one of millions of Americans living with this invisible illness, including many here in Irvine. By recognizing World IBD Day on May 19, the City of Irvine can take an important and impactful step towards increasing awareness reducing stigma and affirming that people with IBD in this community are seen supported and never alone.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Thank you for your statement. Let me my wife' a pediatric gastroenterologist so this hits home and your request that there be a proclamation or the case of our city we can certainly issue an appropriate certificate. Would you be in touch with the city clerk' office in that regard we have a lot of time between now and May and maybe we can organize a little something for this particular year.

Thank you.

Thank you right here.

Rema and if I could also call forward Jason Garfield Christina Young, Joanne Slobodian, Eileen McCarthy, Vicki Johnson, Mike Rao, and Steve Berger. Welcome.

Good evening. Mayor Agron, Vice Mayor Mike, council members Mike Carroll, Martinez Franco, Lou Goh, and Rosita. My name is Rima Nasashibi. I'm founder and president of Global Hope three sixty five, a five zero one c three nonprofit to end harmful practices towards women and girls such as child marriage, human trafficking, and other forms of gender based violence. Yesterday during human trafficking awareness month, global hope three sixty five was honored by the city of Irvine at a recognition ceremony held right here in the council chambers.

It's very important that it was held during this month because as you know the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force, their latest report indicated that the percentage of minor to the total number of victims of human trafficking has risen from thirty six percent to fifty percent due to sextortion. And so, we were surrounded yesterday by board members, interns, donors, and community supporters, Peggy Wong, mayor Pro Tem from the city of Yorba Linda, a longtime advisor and supporter of Global Hope three sixty five. We were deeply honored to have our work in human trafficking prevention recognized in a ceremony yesterday led by James May, the vice mayor of Irvine. We are grateful for their leadership and presence of Michael Kent, chief of police, William Goh, Melinda Lou, and Betty Martinez Franco council members. This recognition reflects more than an award.

It's a powerful example of local leadership. I'll also like to extend our thanks to all the City of Irvine staff, including Nicole Rogers, whose professionalism, coordination, and behind the scenes work led and made this event possible. Thank you so much for the award.

And thank you for all that you do. Thank you very much. Jason? Welcome.

Thank you.

So, I would like to propose that Irvine look into creating a paramedic subscription program. And, I know that sounds a little off the wall, but it's actually something that's been very successfully implemented by a number of other big cities. Santa Ana, for instance, I didn't know about this until a friend told me, but if you live in Santa Ana, you have the option of paying $73 a year to the city, totally optional, no one's forced into it. And if you pay that, then if you call an ambulance, it's free. Medical bills ruin people.

Most Americans don't have $1,000 saved up for an emergency expense, and ambulances can run well in excess of that. I had a serious medical emergency last year, and even in very dire straits, I was afraid to call 911 because I knew what it would cost me. And I'm one of the lucky ones. I have insurance. There's people who don't or who have insufficient insurance.

And they get screwed far worse. So I don't understand why have why we get billed for ambulances at all. There's no other emergency service that does that. The police don't bill you for a rescue. So, if we implement this program in Irvine, I think it could help a lot of residents, including many of our least fortunate and if Santa Ana could do it and Fullerton could do it then I' pretty sure irvine can figure it out too.

Thank you. If you would make some information available if you have it regarding the subscription program elsewhere please I' like to take a look at it and sure my colleagues would as well.

Thank you.

Thank you. Christina.

Welcome. Thank you.

Good evening honorable mayor, council members, and city staff. My name is Christina Young, and I'm speaking today on behalf of many parents from Brightwood elementary school in Northwood. Brightwood families that are present, would you please stand? And Irvine Girl Scouts, please stand. These families represent hundreds of children whose emotional safety matters deeply to all of us.

Thank you you may be seated. Thank you for your leadership in making Irvine a city that does not look away from bullying. Your recent anti bullying legislation and the anti bullying expo by vice mayor James my last October sent a clear message Irvine takes emotional safety of children seriously. More than 150 bribe parents have signed a petition asking for one thing a proven structured school wide bully prevention program. We're not reacting to a single incident.

We're responding to patterns family quietly carry home, anxiety, fear, and feeling unsafe at school. That is why our community is requesting the bullying prevention program or o b p p. O b p p is the gold standard of bullying prevention backed by forty years of research with schools reporting up to 50% reduction in bullying incidents. It has been adopted by 1,000 schools nationwide including California districts such as Santa Monica, Malibu, and Palos Verdes. Prince of hernandez of brightwell elementary has reviewed this program and asked us to explore whether the city of Irvine could help sponsor a pilot program at brightwell elementary a pilot will allow the city to track outcomes collect data and create a scalable model for other interested Irvine schools

Thank you. Your time is up. Why don't you just take ten seconds to finish up, if you would.

Sure. So tonight, we respectfully ask the city of irvine to help sponsor proven bully prevention program backed by statistics and behalf of bribe families thank you for your leadership and your commitment to make Irvine a place where every child feels safe and supported.

And thank you for your comments. Appreciate it. Thank you. Joanne Slobodian. Welcome.

Thank you so much.

Hi, everyone. I'm going to begin with my ask first. If the council' intent is to protect Oak Creek the path forward is simple amend the offer so it provides permanent open space protection and formally accept it. If those amendments do not go through then at the very least accept the offer so an easement exists. An easement protects the city if the irvine company ever seeks to build because undoing an easement and the commitments tied to it is not something any council should want to do.

I came here tonight expecting to thank you all but after reading the offer I realize this is another bait and switch is presented as protection but legally it changes absolutely nothing what was recorded is not an easement is an irrevocable offer of an easement and recording it without acceptance creates no enforceable protection most residents don't realize that that that that and wonder whether I wonder whether all council members were made aware of this deception because this was not agendized for acceptance the way real easements routinely are the offer also delays acceptance by referencing a vague 75 threshold in planning area 12 this language does not clearly say whether it applies for past or future development leaving perfect protection in limbo this offer is also not the easement required under 80 eight-one that resolution required a permanent open space easement that runs with the land what has been offered instead is use based protection tied only to operation of a golf course if that use ends as the irvine company has already initiated the protection ends permanent protection should never depend on temporary use a recorded but unaccepted offer protects nothing Oak Creek is no more protected today than it was before the offer existed thank you so much

Thank you for your comments. Eileen? Welcome.

Yeah. Good evening mayor and city council members. I'm here also to speak about the need to preserve the land at the Oak Creek Golf Course. An offer of an easement was made by the irvine company to the city of Irvine the offer does not satisfy the requirements of 80 eight-one the offer is based on land use rather than the land itself which means once the golf course goes away the land will not be protected and the irvine company can build on it. I' asking the mayor and the city council to direct city attorney Jeff Melching to amend the offer so it protects the land at Oak Creek Golf Course forever.

Then I ask the city to accept the offer so it becomes a proper easement. Thank you all.

Thank you for your comments. Thank you, Johnson. Welcome.

Good evening. I have a handout that's being distributed. Oh, happy New Year. Thank you for serving on the council. Thank you for proclaiming January 9 as doctor Martin Luther King junior day.

And let us bear in mind that the arc of justice is bent through collective effort, moral courage, and sustained activism. Protect our democracy. I'm here to tell you today, as of January 1, OCPA's basic choice is now more expensive than Southern California Edison. Yesterday at the board meeting, the OCPA board abandoned the basic choice 3% discount. So Irvine businesses and residents are now paying more for basic choice than they would through OCPA than they would through SCE.

This foundational affordable option is no longer OCPA's policy. And some of this is detailed in the handout. In October 2025, as one of the city council members pointed out, OCPA spiked its rates 13%. It was unprecedented. It was unnecessary.

Now OCPA will use this spiked 13% rate hike for all of 2026. In contrast, SCE just lowered their rates on January 1 3%. So I really wonder, you know, the board from Irvine that serves on the OCPA board, should they serve Irvine or should they serve OCPA in doing this kind of sort of a tax? Nowhere wants this paid more than SCE now for the lowest basic choice rate. So on this handout I have SCE's announcement and the OCPA board item just approved unanimously yesterday to abandon its former rate policies of having an affordable option.

Please look into it and thank you very much

thank you for your comments mike welcome sir

thank you thank you council members My name is Mike. I'm a resident of Laguna Woods, targeted by OCPA. Fended away once before, but again targeted. Yesterday's OCPA board meeting eliminated the guaranteed 3% savings at Basic Choice, and they agreed to peg the price at a fixed rate for all customers for 2026. Right now, all of Irvine is paying OCPA more than they would to SCE Edison.

Here's a question for you. Do the OCPA board members on your city council have a fiduciary duty to protect the interests of OCPA that is superior to their fiduciary duty to protect the business and residential rate payers of Irvine. Thank you.

Thank you for your comments. Steve Berger. Welcome sir.

Good evening council members my name is steve berger I've been a resident and voter in the city of Irvine since 1978. I' proud to be a resident and voter in Irvine. Irvine is a great city. Raised my two children here and I think it' a marvelous city. I apologize if my information is incorrect but I was under the impression that a proposal was recently circulated about the looming problem of spent nuclear fuel at San Onofre.

And, if there is a problem with that spent fuel that is not resolved, that could mean the end of life as we know it here in Irvine and in all of Orange County. And, my understanding is correct, I hope it's correct, but if it's not, I apologize to the council. My understanding is that proposal to initiate a study and find out the extent of any problem was rejected by this council. Irvine should be a leader not a follower. And, if we have a problem with the spent nuclear fuel at San Onofre, we ought to find out about it sooner rather than later.

And, we should initiate an inquiry and we should find out whether we have a problem if so what the extent of the problem is and if so whether there are any solutions. All of Irvine and all of Orange County really depends on that if we have a problem and this council should lead not follow. Thank you very much.

Thank you for your comments.

Our next speaker is Eric Nashanian. Mr. Nashanian you may unmute your mic.

Thank you, council members, Mayor Mayor Agron. Good evening. Happy New Year. On more than one occasion, I inquired upon the city about oversight compliance of the Irvine Recovery Plan grant program. I have some information for everybody.

At a minimum, almost $500,000 or 10% of the money allocated to the Irvine Recovery Plan grant program was distributed to CORCDC, the Church of Redeemer Community Development Corporation and the NAACP OC Branch. When neither the COR CDC or the NAACP were qualified to solicit charitable assets or accept grants because of their suspended status with the Secretary of State or their suspended or delinquent status with the Attorney General's Charitable Organizations Division or both. The NAACP was suspended with the Secretary of State from 2021 to late twenty twenty five and delinquent with the AG Charities Office over the same period, but Irvine awarded their OC branch $172,000 in IRP grant money on 11/22/2022. The CRRCDC, one of Vericon's current employers, was suspended with the AG Charities Department from 2018 to January 2025 and then revoked until late twenty twenty five. But Irvine awarded then $255,000 the second largest grant and IRP grant money on 11/22/2022.

There's more. Two of the commissioners on the subcommittee for the Irvine Recovery Plant Advisory Committee were Rebecca Thomas, the President of the Thurgood Marshall Bar Association and Amilcar Aaron, who's an NAAC operative. These two members were also on the inaugural DEI Committee as Chair and Vice Chair. But there's even more. The NAACP and the CDC were required to get business licenses here in the city of Irvine as a term of the money. They never did.

Thank you. Your time is up. Our next speaker is Michelle Johnson. Ms. Johnson, you may unmute your mic.

Good evening, mayor and council members. I would like to provide an important update on the Orange County Power Authority. Yesterday, the Board of Directors unanimously approved their 2026 rate design, which locked in their rate increase of 13 from last October, abandoning their 3% discount to Southern California Edison. Their CFO revealed that OCPA rates will be 12% to 16% higher than Edison. What does this mean for the average Irvine resident?

It means that 98,000 Irvine households will be paying an average of $240 more a year to stay in OCPA versus Edison. In 2026, Irvine residents will be collectively paying OCPA $23,500,000 more in electricity costs when many families here are struggling with affordability. The city of Irvine's municipal rate comparison was not provided, so it's unknown how much more the city will be paying for electricity from our taxpayer dollars, not to mention the effect on all our small businesses in the city. The city manager should immediately request this information from OCPA. Financially, OCPA losses are accelerating.

The first three months of the current fiscal year, OCPA incurred an operating loss of $15,000,000 Reserves are now at $42,000,000 and declining. They will not meet their forecast of $76,000,000 The City Council should immediately seek to inform all of our residents of this rate increase and provide the information to opt back to SCE. We should also ask for a current rate comparison from Edison so we know the full budget impact on the city of the OCPA rate increase. Thank you.

Our next speaker is Harvey Liss. Harvey, you may unmute your mic. Hello, Harvey. Can you hear us? Our next speaker is IR. You may unmute your mic. Hi, Ari. Can you hear us?

Hello?

Yes. We can hear you. Hi.

Hi. Please press the media or play the media. Thank you.

My existence as a Korean and understanding of past, present, and what's to come, it is impossible not to align with the fight for a free and liberated Palestine. Now we have so many parallels originating from colonialism's consequences. A corrupt Southern Korean administration that has fallen in sync with Western colonial powers against the well-being and peace of its own people. False narratives are spread to feed capitalism, imperialism, and colonialism. There are sanctions against Northern Korea that prevent food, aid, medical supplies, and life sustaining access.

Meanwhile, Koreans lived through decades of Japanese colonial occupation, displacement, and ethnic cleansing. Then our land was carved up mainly by the US empire, a colonial country that made decisions about our land and our people for its own benefit. Still divided, by the way. We were forced to lose our homelands forever, meaning for a lot of us, we would never be able to reunite with family and home again. We continue to be occupied today and are surrounded by one of the largest forces of Western militarism that deeply profits from keeping the peninsula divided. So as a Korean who wants a free Korea and wants a Korea free from colonial manipulation, from life evaporating sanctions, from militarism, see how our struggles Koreans are aligned with the struggles of Palestinians. So, of course, of course, I fight also for a free and liberated Palestine. When we say liberation, it means liberation from imperialism and colonialism around the world. May all of us fight for liberation until everyone is free.

In 1910, US officials legitimized Japan's colonization of Korea with the Tasman Surah Agreement just as the British sentenced the Palestinians to occupation and the Balfour Declaration in 1917. Today, in US backed South Korea, monopoly capitalists are profiting directly from Zionism. Hyundai sells excavators to the Zionist entity, which are then used to destroy Palestinians' homes and evict them from their land.

That you care about is might not realize it, but an issue that you care about is probably a lot closer connected to Palestine than you might think. Like, if you care about ICE agents who are abducting people all around the country, you should know that many of those agents are likely trained by Israel in exchange programs along with cops and FBI agents. Or if you're concerned about our earth burning out from climate change. You should know that in the first few months of the genocide, Israel's bombs released more carbon than 26

Mister mayor, if I may try Harvey Liss once more. It looks like he was having technical difficulties. Thank you. Harvey, you may unmute your mic.

Hi. Thank you. I was called away by the need of a sudden urgency. In any case, I'm Harvey Liss, a resident of Irvine since 1976 and a registered professional civil engineer. I'm speaking of the refusal of the council majority at the council meeting on December 9 to approve mayor Egren's proposal to establish a multidisciplinary team to develop a local storage plant for the radioactive spent nuclear fuel currently being stored on the beach at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station.

It's exposed to any sort of disaster, environmental, or attack by a grenade or a bomb dropped from a drone, flown from a passing boat, even from a passing vehicle on the I 5. Each of the 153 canisters, many partly buried there, contains as much radioactive nuclear fuel as the entire Chernobyl release. A catastrophic release of the contents of even one canister, would render much of Southern California uninhabitable, risking the lives and livelihoods of millions. With all of the organizations attempting to address this problem, there has really been no progress to date. Mayor Egren's plan, which has actually taken from the successful repackaging and fortified storage of spent nuclear fuel being done in Switzerland, this is not unknown territory.

It seems incredible that council member Mai would refuse to help potentially save the lives and the livelihoods of millions of Southern Californians because he doesn't want to get involved in any project outside Irvine, and I'm paraphrasing. Remember that it was the city of Irvine under mayor Egren that Irvine in 1989 was the first city to ban the production use of CFCs, a ban that went worldwide and is indeed saving the world as the hole in the ozone layer has been shrinking since the ban. As far as council member Tresedo proposing the plan, I don't have to say anything more. We know. Thank you. Bye.

And that is all Mr. Mayor.

Thank you. That concludes our public comments for non agendized items allowing us to turn to the city manager's report.

Thank you mayor city council just three quick items tonight first I'd like to provide you with a brief update regarding Lunar New Year efforts in the city. Excuse me. Following direction provided by the council in December, staff have continued to work with Asian American History Museum and South Coast Chinese Cultural Center to plan our Lunar New Year celebration at the Great Park. I'm happy to report that the event is scheduled for Saturday, February 7, featuring a parade along the Great Park timeline at 11AM, followed by a festival at the Great Park Live at Noon. The city is supporting the event through waived rental fees and staff coordination.

Second item, happy to update or report out that we've won award from something that's close to me, which is the American Public Works Association. Periodically, we win awards, and we've won one this year. And Luis Estevez is gonna provide just a real brief update on what that award is.

Thank you, mister Crumby. Good evening, mister mayor and members of the city council. Luis Estevez, director of public works and sustainability. As Mr. Kremlin, we recently received an award from the American Public Works Association in the Southern California region.

I don't see it coming up here, unfortunately. This was for the Sweet Shade project, Universal Playground project. Here we go. And this project was recognized by the APWA SoCal division on December 9. And it was selected from over 200 nominations that were submitted for their annual best in category project of the year.

And so the team was really excited about this award and the recognition, Particularly very proud about this project to begin with, but to also be recognized by their peers for delivering such a fantastic project to the community. The project was completed back in November 2024, and it does include a lot of great features for children for all abilities to be able to play together, a lot of new ADA compliant parking as well, a new restroom facility, and a new bank shop sports court that gets a lot of use and is really popular with the community. So the team was very proud of this project and very proud to be recognized by their peers for this effort, and they were really excited to share this award with you and the community.

Thank you very much.

Well, thank you. And, come back to you but Mr. City manager in a moment but sweet shade park that project is the playground the entire park there. It is a jam and everybody involved should be very, very, very proud. Thank you. Forgive me for interrupting your report.

I was just going to say thank you to your leadership for that project. Thank you to all the staff from Public Works and the Community Services Department that worked to deliver this great project. And then last thing in my report tonight is just a reoccurring update on immigration. Tonight, our police chief Kent is going to provide a brief update.

Thank you, City Manager Crombie. Good evening, Mayor and City Council. There have been no ICE or Border Patrol activities in the City Of Irvine since our last council meeting on December 9. I do want to note that we are very closely monitoring what is happening in the state of Minnesota and other parts of the country as well to see if there would be any potential impacts to the city of Irvine. But as of today, there have been no impacts. That concludes my presentation.

Thank you. Think we will be at a subsequent council meeting coming back with some policies that proactively address this subject either at the meeting of the twenty sixth or twenty seventh or in February. Thank you chief for keeping us all advised.

Thank you mayor.

That takes care of the city manager's report. We move now onto announcements, committee reports, council reports. This is a chance for those of us here at the dais to report on activities that we' been engaged in. It is an opportunity to make brief reports allowing basically three minutes each. And with that, I'll turn first to Councilmember Liu.

Thank you mayor. Happy new year. I'm excited to share with you all of the recent work my office and I have been doing in the community. On January 8, I delivered my first annual state of the district, which showcased the actions and accomplishments my office has taken this year in District 1 in Irvine. Thank you to everyone who attended. Next, please. Yesterday, our office hosted our second blood drive with the American Red Cross at the Harvard Community Center. We received over 20 donations, saving over 60 lives. Thank you to everyone who donated and participated. We'll have our next one in April.

Next one. On Saturday, December 20, during an older adults event at the Lakeview Senior Center, a power outage occurred, and unfortunately, there was no generators available, leaving the facility without lighting. We are now working with the city staff to ensure backup generators are available at our community centers should this happen again, and I want to thank our city manager and staff and public works department and also community services department for responding quickly and assessing so the program could continue to keep our seniors safe. Our 2025 annual report is now live to learn more about the work we' been doing across Irvine this year please scan the qr code provided on the screen or visit melyndalouirvine.com it' been a pleasure serving the community in 2025 and I look forward to an incredible 2026 for our city. I also want to reiterate the fact that here in Irvine we don' tolerate any hatred and I hope to provide make sure that our commitment to ensure everyone feels safe in the city and my office is always here to assist you so please do not hesitate to reach out regarding any questions concerns or ideas you have thank you.

Thank you, Councilmember Liu, Councilmember Martinez Franco.

Thank you. Before I start my announcements, I want to address what happened in Portland and Minneapolis. It was a scary situation and heartbreaking. And I know it has caused real fear and tension for many people. When it's the incidents involving federal immigration enforcement turn turn violent, it deeply affect our communities and shakes trust.

That is not acceptable. I want our urban community to know that we are aware, we care, and we are paying attention of what has happened nationally. And note, our police department continues to protect our community. My prayers are with everyone affected and with those who are feeling anxious or vulnerable during this time. Thank you.

And now with my announcements. Can you go to the next slide? Our office joined Vice Mayor Mai and community leaders in late December to deliver hundreds of jackets and sweaters to urban farm workers who harvest strawberries for our communities. Also, Mayor Agram encouraged his community to donate jackets for the farmers. It was an honor to support the people who helped feed our community.

And I'm grateful to the partners who made this possible. Next slide. Recently, Spectrum News interviewed me about dating their article is about teen dating violence. And I was honored to share my story as a survivor survivor in the recent coverage. I look forward to continue this work as Irvine hosts its first ever women's convention this March, And this event will provide resources, conversation, and support with the goal to help women feel informed, safe, and empowered.

Next slide. I recently meet met acting fire chief t j j mcovern of of the Orange County Fire Authority. Chief mcovern has dedicated decades to public safety and took on this new role earlier this month. I am proud to work with leaders who share our commitment to keeping Irvine and Orange County safe and resilient. Next slide.

As an OCFA board member, I also had the honor of attending the Canine Timber Press Conference this morning. The event recognized OCFA's new Accelerant Detection Canine, which is one of only four of its kind in the state. Next slide. And please stay connected if you want to learn about the latest in District 5 and the city of Irvine. Thank you so much.

Thank you councilmember martinis franco councilmember go.

Thank you mayor good evening and happy new year to everyone. Over the holiday break we have a few of our councilmember offices participate in the run for clause five ks at the Great Park District two proceeds from the race benefited many charities including south county outreach the american cancer society and more it was a great way to end the year and celebrate the holidays. There are a couple more other races coming up in the Great Park I would like to challenge everyone to sign up for first is the fourth annual anohyne ducks five ks on February 8 all proceeds will benefit anohyne ducks foundation mission of producing positive change for children and families throughout Southern California by providing educational opportunities broadening access to the sport of hockey and addressing the health and wellness needs of the community. Registration ends January 9 you can register for the five ks by scanning the qr code displayed on your screen. Next slide please.

The next race I challenge you all to sign up for is the upcoming irvine dream run on May 9 proceeds from the race go directly to the charitable sunstone community fund to support startups and entrepreneurship in Irvine. Registration prices will increase on January 28 so don' wait you can register for the five ks or three ks by scanning the qr code displayed on the screen. You all.

Thank you councilmember goe vice mayor James why.

Thank you mayor can we bring up the slide.

Apologies vice mayor we' working on it.

If we have a technical delay I could go ahead with announcements and we could come back to the vice mayor would that be acceptable?

Absolutely.

There are a few announcements of citywide import that I' been asked to read into the record here. We have January arts events we' starting this new year with a compelling lineup of free art exhibitions and activities and opening reception for the new art at city hall exhibition which is entitled hope center for the arts be seen will be held this Thursday January 15 from two to 4PM and will feature a performance by the High Hopes Band, an ensemble of musicians from the Hope community. This is a community empowering adults with disabilities through the power of the arts. The Great Park Gallery will debut a new layout designed to highlight three distinct solo shows for the first time. This dynamic installation of exhibits showcases a range of painting practices that span embroidery, abstraction, and comic strip storytelling.

The opening reception for the Great Park Gallery exhibitions is Sunday, January 25, from one to 3PM. During this time, guests can also enjoy a free art activity at the Great Park Studio and live music during the Jazz in the Palm Court performance. Admission and parking for all of these events at the Great Park are free. Learn more about these exciting art exhibitions and activities at artsinirvine.org. It' tax season again.

Free tax preparation services are made available in partnership between the city of irvine with the county of orange united way we' offering free tax preparation services from February 3 through April 7 at harvard community center. Taxpayers who live, work, or attend school in Irvine and earned less than $69,000 in 2025 are eligible to receive help filing their taxes from IRS trained and certified volunteers. Additional assistance is available in applying for tax credits including the state and federal earned income tax credits. Schedule an appointment by calling 211 online appointment scheduling will be available take us down at ocfreetaxprep.com. That's ocfreetaxprep.com.

Will This be starting making these appointments in late January. So I presume we will be making this announcement yet again. Also, don't hesitate to visit cityofirvine.org/freetaxfiling or ocfreetaxprep.com for more information. How are we doing on the other announcements?

It's ready to go. All right.

Welcome.

Thank you.

Vice Mayor Mai, go right ahead.

Thank you, Mayor. I just wanted to talk about the Youth Leadership Conference and Policy Brief Competition that we have on January 24. It will be happening here in the chambers. It's to encourage critical thinking and independent thought with the youth. Oftentimes our youth are told what to do, not how to think, and one of the goals of this is to prepare them for the real world leadership and not social media sound bites.

So The students will be working together in groups to create a policy brief and present it to myself and a panel of judges. Winners will be officially recognized and have the opportunity to help shape legislation in Irvine as well. Currently, have 102 high school students registered. We have a number of seats available still, so encourage any high school students to attend. It'll be here on the twenty fourth. I look forward to seeing all of you here and hearing what your thoughts are. I think it's very important and looking forward to hear from the students as well. Thank you very much.

Thank you Vice Mayor Mai. I think that concludes the announcements I want to thank my colleagues for bringing us up to the minute on activities in your respective districts. This is I think helpful to everyone in our community. With that, we move now to additions and deletions to the agenda. City manager crumby, do we have any additions or deletions tonight?

Thank you, mayor. There's been a few requests from the council, and we're prepared to accommodate any direction from you and the council.

And, what are those requests?

There's been a few requests from Councilmember Mai related to the agenda. Maybe Vice Mayor Mai can talk to that.

Sure, absolutely. I believe 3.3 I would like to remove Independence Day celebration update. I'd like to strike that from the agenda, And, also, Melinda Lee would you like councilmember Lee would you like to speak to three point five as well?

Sure. We'll postpone and continue the item 3.5 to the next council meeting on 01/27/2026?

We're happy to continue 3.5 if that's the direction for

Which the was that? That would be the

veterans services item on the agenda.

Forgive me for just asking. What is going on here? Why are items put on the agenda and then taken off when people might be sitting in the audience who, based on the publication of the agenda, have come to this meeting?

Thank you, mayor. In the run up to this council meeting, there were requests from council members to modify the agenda. Without direction from the mayor. Staff is not in the position to do that unilaterally. And so we're asking for direction from the council or the mayor and the council as a whole on what to do about those requests.

Are there other requests? Are these No, mayor. All right. What is 3.3 again?

I'll read the title. It's Independence Day celebration update.

All right. Let me just say that matter has been bumping along from one meeting to another. I don' know how our staff can possibly deal with independence day events whether we' having them or not, what combination of events, and what funding and so forth. Personally unless there' a motion I personally would not wish to see that item deleted it' just lead to continuing uncertainty confusion with our staff. Unless there' a motion I simply don' want to see that that one withdrawn from the agenda.

Absent a motion that will remain on the agenda.

Point of order I' like to speak to that if possible. If we're going to discuss this we'll discuss this but until then I'm not going to make any comments to it I'm just going to make a motion to strike this from the agenda.

Second. A motion by councilmember mye. Seconded by councilmember treseder to remove item 3.3 from the agenda. At this time discussion is in order. I' call on councilmember carol.

Thank you mayor I don' really have much to add except to say I' like to understand the reason I'm prepared to discuss the matter, but I'm not sure how I could vote if I don't really know why like you, I don't know what's happening. If the maker of the motion wants to discuss why it needs to be removed I could support that but absent that I don't know. You.

I will recognize myself. I guess that' my question if I might direct it to the vice mayor councilmember mye. What is to be gained by withdrawing it from

the issue? Like to vote

mayor and then we can discuss it after if we need to discuss it.

No the motion.

The motion is to withdraw and there was a second so.

And we're discussing the motion.

I would just like to I'm going to respond to you by saying that I'm not going to discuss until until the motion is full.

Given we're given no reason. We're given last minute notice. This is not a way to run an agenda. I feel for our staff because we've not had our heads together on this Independence Day event planning. Staff had prepared a report that's in front of us.

And we had more or less pledged last time that we would conclude this matter tonight, that we would conclude it tonight. I think we should stick with that pledge. Accordingly, urge a no vote on the motion to remove item 3.3 from the agenda. Anything further? Will the clerk please call the roll.

Councilmember Carrol. No. Councilmember Goh.

Yes.

Councilmember Lu.

We just voting to remove it.

Voting to remove item 3.3.

Just remove it. Yes.

Councilmember Martinez Franco? Yes. Councilmember Trisheter?

Yes.

Vice Mayor Mai? Yes. Mayor Agram?

No.

Thank you carries five to two with councilmember carol and mayor agron voting no.

Alright so it is removed from the agenda. Alright I'm I'm just going to flat out ask my colleagues what is the direction to staff with respect to the Independence Day events? Maybe I'll ask of the city manager.

So, we're in a position in terms of planning for the Independence Day celebrations that have been talked about where staff is not able to secure vendors to provide service, namely for the traffic control, for the stages, and for some of the support services. And delaying any further only makes it less of the ability to do that. So without the ability to have the item on the agenda, there really isn't going to be a city fourth of July event in the Great Park.

That will be the natural evolution here as a practical matter we want.

As a practical matter. Without a vote, there really is no way to execute.

All right. Well, let me just make the request now. Put this on the next agenda. At that time, presumably, the report will come in that we can't have an event because it's too late.

Will do.

All right. Yes, Councilmember Carroll. Thank you, Mayor. Yeah, I'm actually not interested in destroying four, so I'd like to have a vote. So I move to add it back onto the agenda, if someone would second that, please.

All right. We' actually voted on the matter.

I can add it. I move to add it. You move to add it to be going on. To have a second for that please.

I'll second it.

And then

I'll speak to it. Just because it's acute parliamentary maneuver, congratulations.

Happy to help.

And I think I can see Mr. Melchin kind of shaking his head a little bit here.

The mayor, the agenda before this you should just proceed with the motion. You're right. It's acute parliamentary procedure. If it were framed as a motion to reconsider, it would need to have been made by the winning side. But it's been framed as a motion to add something back on the agenda. I was shaking my head because from a Brown Act standpoint, I'm trying to figure out whether we're now adding something to an agenda, which requires an exigency to add something to the agenda at the meeting that wasn't on the seventy two hour published agenda. But in this instance, it was on the seventy two hour published agenda. It just happened to have been removed by the last motion.

All right. Well, I second the I've seconded the motion. Would you like to pose an argument, Council Member Carroll?

Yeah. I have a simple argument for everybody out there listening in the television audience and the staff and the rest of my colleagues. It sounds to me that the city manager of the city of Irvine said, if we don't take this up in some form out today and discuss it and come up with some type of a celebration for the July 4, the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the United States of America, then we are in dire we're in a dire situation, and we're in severe jeopardy of having anything at all. So I would like a vote on that. A vote yes is to discuss this and come up with something to do on the July 4.

A vote of my colleagues no is that we have decided to put fourth of July you know, we've decided to table fourth of July here in the city of Irvine. I will be attending no problem at all. Like I do every year, I'll be attending with my children, the float with the floats that we build at the Woodbridge HOA, amazing Fourth of July parade. So, I don't need anything else. But for all of our folks living in multifamily apartments throughout our 360,000 person city, I think it's appropriate that we consider some type of Fourth of July event that doesn't require $200 tickets to go see the Pacific Symphony.

That mayor is the reason why I'm I want a yes vote and I want to talk about this. That's the reason why vote no and vote fourth of July away. Thank you.

Thank you. Your motion is before us. Councilmember Liu, followed by Councilmember Mai.

Thank you, Mayor. Well, I wanted to add to this. So if we're going to discuss this, we had precedents before that we had items removed, then we still had discussion. But my point is, to what goal? And that's kind of what I would like to know that I understand.

And it's rather unfortunate that we don't have time and we may not be able to have a citywide event for our two hundred and fiftieth Fourth of July. I know that cities have been working very hard to find that way to make this happen. So I just wanted to know, yes, are we doing this just for the sake of discussion, or we actually do have a solution to this?

Are you directing that question to Councilmember Carroll?

Well, or to anybody who wants to speak in support of continuing or continuing the discussion or adding it back on the

All right. Did you want to respond to that councilmember carol and then councilmember mias requested to be heard?

No, absolutely. That's I understand, Councilmember. I just you know, I know that we have a staff. We have recommended action, and we directed staff to come back to talk about it. So we've noticed it. We probably have a bunch of speakers coming to talk about Fourth of July. So, you know, I think this is a cute way of shoving it under the sweeping it under the rug so that nobody has to hear public comments about it. So I'd like to hear the public comments and be able to deliberate on it. But, that's a good point. I mean, we it was a difficult item to discuss in the last meeting. But, I think to take it off right now is a disservice to the public.

All right. Let me me just interject here for a moment. Additions and deletions to the agenda, are those a matter under state law that require opening that up to public comment?

Only if somebody had submitted a comment on additions and deletions to the agenda. No the answer is no.

No there' no public comment okay Councilmember mi.

Thank you mayor. If we' going to discuss this I thought we had already moved this discussion but I really don' see a reason to discuss this at this point. I've talked countless hours with staff already. It's near impossible to execute at this point in time. I've warned the city.

I've warned my colleagues here in the past over the past couple months we need to get the show on the road or we will not be able to get vendors we will not be able to get sponsorships I' got confirmation that all vendors traffic security are not available it's futile to even continue this discussion because it can' happen. If it happens it's going to be at extraordinarily long lengths from the staff. I don't want to put the staff through that again. It's too late already. They've told me that it's too late already.

I've tried everything to make it happen. Another thing is people this was voted on last time, and it was incorrectly the motion was incorrectly if correct me if I'm wrong, but that motion was incorrect to bring it back at $250,000 That needed to go to the public at first. And, I want that addressed as well. If you could, please.

Are you asking me to Yes. So, the timeline of the motions from the council would be that this item was first brought in November to the City Council for approval, at which time the council voted to increase the budget from $250,000 which was included in the original budget, by an additional $350,000 to a total budget of $600,000 The direction from the City Council was to bring this item back in December to decide between a July 3 and a July 4 date for the event. When the item came back in December, the direction from counsel was to come back in January and present an event staying within the $250,000 budget. And so, what we had placed onto the agenda was complying with that direction.

It was not complying with that?

It was. It is. Okay.

And, I want to state something here is that the things I put on here, I've heard people say this is my baby, this is my thing, this is my thing because I'm placing I'm placing and leading on this. I'm placing these things on here because I'm leading for the community. I had said that we need to get this on the road. If not, it's not going to happen. And, because of certain temperature on this dais here and political gaming, it basically we cannot execute it no matter what.

We cannot simply execute it because of time, because of the constraints from the vendors and the sponsors. I don't know if that was the intention or not, but that's where we're at. So, why are we even having discussion? Why are we continuing this discussion when it is improbable to even execute for the staff? That's that's the reason I wanted to pull it off of the agenda here. There shouldn't be any more discussion of it because it physically is not impossible impossible to do anymore. And, it's unfortunate because we had 40 to 50,000 people show up. I have countless children come up to me and say, when's the next July 4? I have countless families saying we had a great time. We needed to execute, and we lost that opportunity of a window.

Due to whatever reason, bringing it back, changing it, we needed to decide on a day we should have executed when we could in November for the staff to have enough time, but we did not execute on that. And, we brought it back again once again. And, while now we want to bring it up again once again for what what exact reason. There is no reason when there's a confirmation from the staff that we cannot do it simply because the vendors that have been selected. Trying to combine it with sick low people tried to do that. I even brought up the intent to even bring it back to Irvine High and bring back a tradition that Irvine has always had at with IPA, but we can't do it. We've tried every single possibility. The staff has tried every single possibility and there' nothing we can do anymore. Thank you.

We have a motion before us let me just see if I can sort this out. If everybody is in agreement as a practical matter that there cannot be a major new fourth of July event, then why don't we just take action to have staff stop thinking about it and relieve staff of any burden? I mean, we can do it this way and just let things kind of drift. Yes, Councilmember Carroll.

Yeah, thank you, mayor. I think I was headed in that direction. I mean, this is a properly agendized, whether anybody likes it or not, this is a properly agendized item of the City Council of Irvine, California. One of the defects in the process with which we run these meetings is that the general non agendized public and Jeff's going start nodding. The general non agendized public comments appear before additions and deletions.

And with counsel and when Mayor Egren and I can get some of these counsel policies and procedure revisions before this counsel, one of the most important things we can do is to bring additions and deletions ahead of general and non agendized public comments. Because the practical effect, new council members, when you do this and you slide this thing off, is you now have prevented the chance for any of the residents of this city to have public comments on things that have been put on the agenda. Because the time for general, non agendized public comments has expired. So what you have done if you vote not to hear this and not to have discussions that we're talking about, such as bring the item up, Mayor Agron says, sounds like we need a motion, you know. We're hearing from some of our colleagues that there's no possible way this can happen.

I guess we have to move to have staff stop dealing with it, rather than putting in this suspended animation where staff's just spinning its wheels right now doing who knows what, talking to vendors, they're already taxed enough as it is as we build out the largest underdevelopment park in The United States Of America, the Great Park. So, the other practical effect of saying no, and again, rushing this agenda item under the rug is you've now squelched the ability I don't care if it's one or 101 people that have the opportunity to speak. And as we've all met as a council policies and procedures committee working with the city attorney, it's unfortunately just kind of the cadence of the way this goes, is that we can't now have anybody speak to this item and, to not have anybody exercise their speech rights on these agendized items is, in my opinion, fraught with trouble. And it also leads to the idea that we're somehow, we don't want to hear what people have to say about it. And even if no one has to say anybody, to open it up to public comment and have Carl say we have six people in person, and we have 12 people on Zoom is an important part of what we do.

And until general non agendized public comments come after the deletion of an item, you will always have this problem. So from a process perspective and also from the perspective of maybe directing staff that it's over with, you know, which is the responsibility to do, Sounds like we both will have a motion if we properly hear it. The motion will be this thing's over. Here are the reasons why we heard some of those arguments. We'll hear from the public. And then a motion will be made, it sounds like, to to, pull up essentially fold the tent and not work on July 4 this year. So that's my belief why we should vote yes to hear this item and have the public have a chance to speak. Thank you.

Just to remind folks there we go. Just to remind folks of a yes vote would be to keep it on the agenda, basically put it on the agenda. I see that councilmember mi will give you the last word and then have the calling of the roll.

Thank you mayor yeah know 3.3 was removed there's no other discussion on this it's basically a dead deal I don't see why we should continue so I'll be voting no to continue this and let's move on with the agenda.

All right. Absent Councilmember Liu.

So my question is, like I asked before, what is the goal of we're trying to achieve here. But if that is something that we have voted on, and I believe councilmember carol was pointing out the fact that we had already put this in motion and maybe we should properly end it if that's our plan as a council.

That's a practical effect of his motion, yes.

I see what then.

Okay, thank you.

So, a yes vote would put the substance of the matter back on the agenda. All right. Will the clerk please call the roll?

Councilmember Carroll.

Yes.

Councilmember Go. No. Councilmember Liu. Yes. Councilmember Martinez Franco.

Sorry, just to clarify, so we are voting to erase this item?

This is a motion to put it back on.

Is this

back on?

Yes. Councilmember Trisheeter? No. Vice Mayor May? No. Mayor Egren. Yes. Carries four to three with Council Member Goh, Council Member Trusieder, and Vice Mayor Mai voting no.

What was that, a forty five minute detour? And we're back where we were.

Can we get a consensus on removal of 3.5 from the agenda?

And again, 3.5 That's

the Veterans Support Services. I feel like there was consensus to remove that item. Yes. Okay. Thank you very much.

Absent a motion to the contrary, that item will be removed. Alright. Now with the agenda set, let's keep going. We move now to the consent calendar all matters listed under the consent calendar and tonight the consent calendar is items 2.1 to 2.6. Those matters are considered by the city manager to be routine and will be enacted by one roll call vote.

There won't be a discussion of these matters unless members of the city council request specific items to be removed from the consent calendar for separate discussion. But first, I think we turn to the city clerk and ask if there are any citizen requests to be heard.

Thank you, mayor. We have one request via Zoom.

One request. Why don't we have that individual come forward now? And then we'll look to the council for motions. All right?

And then apologies, Mayor. There's one that just jumped in last minute.

So there's two. There are two. All right. And if you would please close the queue at this point.

Thank you, Mayor. Our first speaker is telephone number 347. 347, you may unmute your mic.

Yes, this is Dee Fox, and I want to talk about item 2.6. Residents were told the Great Park would be a balanced master planned community, jobs near homes, manageable traffic, adequate schools, and environmental response and environmental responsibility. What are we seeing instead is a steady erosion of that vision. This ordinance adds 1,300 more residential units while cutting back nonresidential job producing land. This is the exact opposite of balance.

Each time housing is added and jobs are removed, traffic gets worse. Communities commutes get longer, and vehicle emissions increase despite the city's stated climate goals. We are promised planning that kept infrastructure ahead of growth. The reality today is peak hour gridlock around the Great Park and schools operating at or near capacity. Now this council is being added to lock in even more density with no enforceable guarantees that roads will be widened, intersections fixed, or schools built before families move in.

We were promised sustainability. The reality is years of diesel construction equipment, increased pollution, and thousands of additional daily car trips, all concentrated in one area. You cannot claim climate leadership while approving land use decisions that knowingly increase vehicle miles traveled. At second reading, this council has a choice, uphold the original commitments made to the community or admit that those promises no longer matter. We need to get on this, you guys.

This is crazy. These new council members, they don't even know what they're voting for. They put things on the agenda, and then they take things off the agenda. I I was gonna speak on Melinda Lou's agenda item, the last one, and now I guess I can't even speak to it. But she's gonna bring it back next week. Whatever. Thank you, Maygrin, mayor Larry for sticking up for the people. You.

Mayor second speaker dropped out of the queue so that's all the speakers.

Are there counsel requests to remove any items from the consent calendar? Let me clarify something item 2.6 which is the second reading on the housing enhancements in and around the Great Park. Approving the consent calendar, in my case, since I voted against that, my vote on that particular item on second reading will be recorded as no.

That's correct for you. Everybody's vote on second reading will be reflected as the same as it was on first reading.

All right. I just want to make sure that's there for the record. All right. Will the clerk please call the roll oh, I'll move adoption of the consent calendar.

Second.

Seconded by Council Member Liu. Would the clerk please call the roll?

Council Member Carroll. Yes. Council Member Go. Yes. Council Member Liu. Yes. Council Member Martinez Franco. Yes. Council Member Trecedar.

Yes.

Vice Mayor May? Yes. Mayor Akron? Yes. Carries seven-zero.

All right, that takes care of the consent calendar, allowing us to move to counsel business item 3.1. I' going to need a lot of help from the city clerk and others, a lot of cooperation to move through this. Please, would you, Mr. Peterson, identify item 3.1 by title and subject.

Thank you, mayor. Item 3.1 is approval of appointments of city council representatives to city advisory committees and governmental agencies and selection of interim mayor.

I wish to advise anybody who is participating electronically via zoom that now would be the time to raise your hand electronically to enter the speaker queue. Let me introduce this item with just a few comments. Each year the city council appoints delegates and alternates to various outside governmental agency boards as well as in house advisory committees on which the city council has representation. This is as required by the Irvine municipal code. The proposed appointments and there are many of them this evening.

This is done at the beginning of every year. The proposed appointments before you this evening include some of what are referred to as my recommendations for the ensuing year. I want to just kind of qualify that. By custom and tradition, the mayor solicits from counsel colleagues interest in their serving on one kind of a committee or a county agency where we have representation or whatever. And typically, then, the many, many opportunities for service in county regional agencies, committees and the like.

That is kind of a volunteer activity on the part of council members express an interest in one thing or another and most of these are filled amicably and with a lot of cooperation between and among council members. Sometimes you get into situations where a number of them have interests expressed by more than one council member, maybe two, maybe three. And we have to have a process for deciding among those who have expressed interest which will actually be our representative for the next year. So let me just go back to this. The proposed appointments before us this evening are for the ensuing year for the balance of 2026 And these include those related to in house advisory committees and outside governmental agency boards where there are either no changes or those with changes where the level of interest in serving does not exceed the number of available positions.

In other words, they' not contested by anybody. How do you want to proceed, Mr. Peterson, in this regard? Should we start with those first?

I'll defer to you and the City Council mayor, but I might suggest that you first take up, if somebody makes a motion to approve the ones where there's no changes, all in one motion since there's no contest. Alright.

Are you putting on there a list? It's not on this screen. Okay. Or you'd have to be Superman to read that. But basically, there are a number of committees and the like where people have been serving and they've not requested a change.

And as far as I'm concerned, that's good because we want some continuity. I don't think we want to go over these individually, but I can say that various agencies and committees and so forth where we have representatives are very, very important. And I think especially important among newer council members to be able to gain experience. And so I'm glad to see there are many where there are no changes, no changes requested. Why don't I simply move adoption of all of those that are on the screen before us?

Is there a second?

I'll second.

Seconded by Councilmember Liu. All right, any discussion on that?

Just one thing, mayor, that I just want to mention for the record. There are no requests to speak on this item.

Oh, excellent. And the queue is closed, right?

I'll defer to you on that.

Let's close it now. Okay. Actually, no, let's keep it open on this whole item. Let's keep it open. I don't want to cut off public comment if, in fact, somebody has some later on. All right. There's a motion properly before us. Would the clerk please call the roll?

Councilmember Carroll. Yes. Councilmember Go. Yes. Councilmember Liu.

Yes.

Councilmember Martinez Franco? Yes. Councilmember Trusieder?

Yes.

Vice Mayor May? Yes. And Mayor Agram? Yes. Carries seven-zero.

Yes. Thank you. And to all those who are continuing in those positions, as they say thank you for your service for your continuing service. In cases where the level of interest exceeds the number of available positions, I'm not making any particular recommendations myself. What I typically do is just encourage people to discuss these matters among themselves and see if we can resolve things.

Mr. Mayor? Yes. Before we move on to that step, there's actually an in between step, if you will. We have two outside agency committee appointments where there are changes, but the level of interest does not exceed the number of positions. So there's two that are highlighted on the screen, which includes the Orange County Power Authority and the Irvine Community Land Trust.

All right. These are not being contested, so let's get practical on it. With respect to which is the first one? The first

one is the irvine community land trust.

The irvine community land trust previously serving were councilmembers go and my I believe right? Councilmember go has agreed to step off is that correct? Correct. And that makes room for councilmember my I'm sorry councilmember who

will

take his position and nobody else has expressed interest. Why don't we just move adoption of that change right now. I'll be happy to move it.

Is there

a second? Seconded by councilmember Cecilia? Any further discussion? There being none, will the court call the roll.

Councilmember Carroll?

Yes.

Councilmember Go. Yes. Councilmember Liu. Yes. Councilmember Martinez Franco. Yes. Councilmember Trusieder.

Yes.

Vice Mayor May.

Yes.

And Mayor Agram. Yes. Carry seven-zero.

That allows us to move on to the second one, which was OCPA. PA. Correct. And as I understand it, just to review the bidding, is it councilmember which is the one who's stepping off? Councilmember Goh. Goh is a step down.

And then councilmember Tristeider would fill the vacancy.

And there being no other requests for anyone else. If we I

do have a comment. CEO of moska did request that we did put an alternate as well.

Let's come to that on a second. Let's vote on filling the active positions first. And then we'll turn to the question of the OCPA's request for alternates. I'm sorry was there a motion did I offer a motion? We need one I believe. I'll offer a motion to appoint councilmember to replace Council Member Go. Second. Second by Council Member Mai. I see no requests to be heard. Will the clerk please oh, I'm sorry.

Council Member Carroll?

Yeah, thank you, Mayor. I just want to clarify. I believe the per meeting, and maybe the board members, is $315 It's not $212.5 is it? What's the actual meeting fee Through the chair? I think it's over 300 at this point.

I think it's the same as the sanitation district. So what is the sanitation district?

I'm sorry, wrong list. One moment.

It has it on the previous slide, I believe. All right. Line 15 has the sanitation district.

All right. That Yeah, 315 per meeting. So it's the same. I wasn't aware of an increased stipend. If that's the new stipend,

then the allocated amount is provided. Am I correct?

Yeah, would just move that the motion include that it's $315 a meeting.

All right, just to correct that. And with the motion properly before us with the clerk please call the

roll.

CHAIRMAN Councilmember Carroll. CHAIRMAN Yes. CHAIRMAN Franco.

Yes.

Councilmember Trecedor.

Yes.

Vice Mayor Mai. Yes. Mayor Agram. Yes. Carry seven zero.

Thank you. With respect to the request from OCPA that we have two alternates, I would ask at this point are there any volunteers to be alternates to ocpa?

I' be willing to step in as an alternate. I' working on some important aspects in terms of trying to maintain our two seats post the payback of

the loan so I believe we You would like to be an alternate? Correct. I think everybody's very excited about that. We have one alternate. How about another? Is there another? You're unlikely to be called on. Councilmember Martinez Franco volunteers as well, I move that they be designated as alternates. Is there a second? Second. Seconded by Council Member Goh. Would the clerk please call the roll?

Council Member Carroll. Yes. Council Member Go. Yes. Council Member Liu. Yes. Council Member Martinez Franco. Yes. Council Member Trusieder.

Yes.

Vice Mayor May. Yes. And Mayor Agram. Yes. Carries seven-zero.

All right. We're on a roll here. What's next, Mr. Peterson?

The next is what you indicated before. The next is a list of those where there's limited positions available but the interest exceeds the number of positions.

All right why don't we take those one at a time. What is the first one?

The first one is the irvine barkley theater operating company. There are two positions open and there's three council members who have expressed interest.

All right let's get clarification on this. We do have staff continuity and representation that' been michelle grettenberg is that correct?

That' correct.

Does this have anything to do with her position? Not really. No. All right. This is just among council members. So who are those who have expressed interest?

Councilmember Martinez Franco and Vice Mayor Mayor are interested in being reappointed and councilmember trecedar is also interested in participating.

Since we have three for two positions let me suggest that each of those who have expressed interest, instead of self nominating and all that business, just please speak to your desire to continue to serve in the case of those who are serving now as to why you would wish to continue. And those who are not on, speak as to why you'd like to be added to this particular committee. Shall we start with incumbents?

I'll defer to you, mayor. But to your point, the incumbents are

Yes. So it was mentioned that we have a staff member on there so if that staff member was to relieve herself or leave the position there would it would it open up three slots for us or are those designated staff versus council members?

These spots are at the pleasure of the council and could be filled with three council members if that's the desire of the council.

Would this be proposed at a later time outside of this meeting, or how would that happen?

No, it would be our preference to do it now. Please do it now.

Are you making a motion to that effect now?

I would like to make a motion to have help me if I'm structuring this incorrectly here, but I would like to see three board seats represented by three city council members here.

That would be an appropriate motion. Is there a second?

Second.

I'd like to I'm sorry, Councilmember Carroll, did you wish to speak on this?

Oh, yeah, to the motion, yeah.

On this motion?

Yeah,

with your All right, because I want to speak to it as well. Go ahead.

Oh, okay. Yeah, I just

want to get some clarification about it. So it sounds like we've traditionally had two members on the Barclay board and one staff member. Has that been the way it's been as far back as we is that the precedent? Or what can we get a little more perspective on that? Maybe Yes.

Ms. Gretchenberg could come by.

Partially aware of the history Our veteran. Beyond this current term, and maybe Assistant City Manager Gretchenberg Thank

Council Member Carroll, before Michelle speaks, I'll just limp in and say, until you had a seven member council, I'm quite confident you did not have three members sitting on the Barclay board. You

really stole the thunder of

Assistant City Manager Gretchenberg, although I would love to hear from her.

Of

the city manager has been on that board for many years and I' just say it has provided in my judgment the kind of continuity that I' be very hesitant to lose. I know I'm expressing myself on the motion, but I think this would be the appropriate time. Go ahead, Councilmember Carroll. Councilmember Gretchenberg, did you have anything to add? I'm sorry staff member.

Thank you. Good evening mayor and city council michelle Gretchenberg assistant city manager. Yes certainly as city attorney mentioned the two there has never been three council members on the barkley board I want to say as early as maybe four years or so or so that was the first time an actual council member was appointed to the barkley board prior to that there were staff members and or planning commissioners on that board.

Thank you thank you mayor for clarifying appreciate it and you know so I'll be supportive of keeping a member of staff on that board and keeping would you continue to serve Ms. Gretchenberg if that if continued with the way that it's been going? Would you still be our person from the staff?

I've had the great honor of serving the Barkley Board, Barkley Theater Board of Directors, at the pleasure of the City Council. And certainly if the council that's the council's interest in continuing that I am certainly available but certainly if there's a different interest I absolutely understand that as well. You. Thank

you. So yeah for this council member I'll be supporting the two members picking two council members and keeping one staff member and keeping Michelle Gretchenberg on the board thank you mayor.

There is the motion before us from councilmember mye to change it to three council members. Councilmember carol having spoken next is councilmember trecedar.

Yes thank you. I think that when we had a five member city council it made a lot of sense for there to be only two representatives from the council on this board because we didn't want to violate any Brown Act restrictions. But now that we have expanded to seven, then we can be up to three and still adhere to the Brown Act. I really respect Ms. Gretchenberg's knowledge and history with this board.

And of course, she would still be able to offer all the same advice and resources that she would before. The reason that I am interested in serving is simply because the Barclays Theatre is a partnership with UCI. I am obviously closely associated with UCI and so it would make sense we have a direct partnership if I am on the board. I think that it would make things a bit more streamlined. And so that is why I'm hoping to be appointed. Thank you.

I'd like to speak to the motion that is in front of us, which is to have the representation currently provided by our assistant city manager to dispense with that and put three council members on. While we can do that I think it' very unwise. It was my pleasure and honor to serve on the parkway theater board for a number of years. It' a complicated organization with a very very important complicated mission and having the direct availability and representation of our professional staff I found to be very helpful. Council members come and go to have continuity of staff representation representing the interests of the city is I think the proper organization.

Accordingly I'm opposed to the motion and encourage my colleagues to oppose it as well and move on to a vote among the three who have expressed interest. Councilmember trussieder.

I just want to reiterate that I really appreciate the knowledge and experience that Ms. Gretchenberg brings to this. Could she attend even if she were not on the board could she still attend the meeting so that she can provide some advice or information as necessary?

We're happy to provide staff support.

Yeah, Okay. So that's good. So we could still have all those valuable resources that Ms. Gretchenberg represents, and have three council members on the board. Thank you.

All right. Councilmember Carroll. Yeah.

Was just also it's probably just a question for the city attorney. But is there a potentiality of a conflict of interest or appearance of a conflict of interest to have a UCI employee on the board of that entity? Being that it's sort of a UCI city partnership, How does that intersect? Is there anything that we should be thinking about?

Does not create a conflict of interest from the standpoint of the Fair Political Practices Act or the Political Reform Act or any other California law, primarily because it's an uncompensated position, the position with the board. So I can't speak to the question of appearance of conflict, but I can say as a matter of law, not a conflict.

Okay, great. Thank you. And I would just say that, you know, with regard to this, yeah, this isn't this is just continuing to choose two members. So, kicking the staff member off and voting yes to do that is sort of the easy approach. The harder approach is actually making decisions up here and choosing two of the seven to sit on the board and preserving the relationship we have with a, voting member of our board, our assistant city manager, Michelle Gretchenberg, to remain in that position as she's been serving for a number of years. And we can have that harder conversation with three people interested and picking two among the three. So that's why I'll be voting no. Thank you.

No further requests to be heard. What is the motion before us?

The motion as I understand it would be to appoint councilmember martinez franco and vice mayor mye reappoint them and also add councilmember truce eater to the board so at all three requests.

That is the motion. Would the clerk please call the roll?

Councilmember Carroll. No. Councilmember Goh.

Yes.

Councilmember Liu. Yes. Councilmember Martinez Franco.

Yes.

Councilmember Traceter.

Yes.

Vice Mayor May.

Yes.

Mayor Agram. No. Carries five to two with Councilmember Carroll and Mayor Agram voting no.

All right. We've taken care of that item. Now we move on.

Thank you, Mayor. The next one would be the Irvine Child Care Project, which is a nonprofit JPA between the city of Irvine and Irvine Unified School District. And one thing, if I may clarify for the record, this isn't a committee that, technically, there's more interest than there are available positions. What we're simply asking for is there were two council members that expressed interest, Vice Mayor Mai and Councilmember Liu. There is not on this committee there is not two delegate positions but rather there is a delegate and an alternate. So we need clarification as to who would serve as the delegate and who would serve as the alternate on this committee. Thank you.

I' just thinking it' too bad between the two of them they couldn' have decided this matter. All right. The Irvine child care committee. There are two expressions of interest. I would invite councilmember Mai as well as Councilmember Liu to state your reasons for wishing to serve in the position and then I guess we will figure out how to vote on the matter.

Council Member Mai is requested to be heard first, then Council Member Liu.

Sure. Thank you, Mayor. Yeah, I'm interested in serving on this. I've served on the Irvine Child Care Committee for approximately three years also working with first five in the county I also have two children at Irvine unified school district in regards to the positioning here I understand that there are two slots I'm more than happy to provide my services and my serving as an alternate if Councilmember Melinda Lu would like to be the delegate.

Well, thank you. That's a gracious offer. Do you accept, Councilmember Lu?

Yes. Thank you.

All right. I think why don't you make a or I'll make a motion to that effect that the appointees be Councilmember Liu and that the alternate to be Vice Mayor James Mai. Is there a second? Second. Second. Seconded by Councilmember Goh. Would the clerk please call the roll?

Councilmember Carroll? Yes. Councilmember Goh? Yes. Councilmember Liu? Yes. Councilmember Martinez Franco? Yes. Councilmember Trusieder?

Yes.

Vice Mayor May? Yes. And Mayor Agram?

Yes. Carry seven-zero. Thank you. And as they say, three years, thank you for your service, Council Member Mai. With that, we move on. What's next?

Thank you. The next one is the Irvine liaison and coordinating committee with the County Of Orange. There are two available positions. Those that have expressed interest are councilmember Traceter, Vice Mayor Mai, and councilmember Go.

There are two positions, all right. First of all, as I understand it, this committee is yet to meet right?

It's not that they haven't met they just haven't met in a long time it's my understanding that it's been well over two years since they last met.

Probably they should meet so we could better coordinate things with the county. But we appreciate the expressed interest. I think let's use the same procedure. And I would invite those who have a trusted interest councilmember terceder being first here on the monitor to tell us why she would like to serve on this committee and that would be followed by the same offer to Councilmember Mai and Councilmember Go.

Thank you. Yeah, I am so glad that my colleagues, Vice Mayor Mai and Councilmember Go, would like to serve on this committee. And I have a lot of faith in their ability to do that. So I'm happy to withdraw my name.

CHAIRMAN Well, thank you. That's gracious on your part. And I'll move that council members Mai and Go be our two appointees to this yet to meet, or soon to meet, we hope, county coordinating committee. Second. Seconded by councilmember Mai. Would the clerk please call the roll?