Meeting Summary
Present: Jr., Hernandez, Julian · Absent: Villegas
This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details, so verify against the official recording and the transcript.
At a glance
Human Trafficking Awareness Month Proclamation
- Council Member Hernandez read a proclamation recognizing January 2026 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month.
- Anne McCarty of the North County Rape Crisis and Child Protection Center described the Task Force's coalition structure and services.
- Council Member Fernandez announced a human trafficking awareness forum hosted by the Rotary Club on January 22.
Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) Administrative Draft
- Kevin Cullinan presented the draft UFMP, noting the city currently has 4.2% canopy cover and lacks a dedicated forestry budget.
- The plan sets a goal to achieve 10% citywide canopy cover by 2066 and pursue "Tree City USA" certification.
- A 30-day public comment period will follow, with the final plan expected to return to Council for adoption in late February.
Interim City Administrator Information Only Report
- Public Works reported on speed bump installation, crosswalk installation, and ongoing SCADA repairs at the Water Plant.
- Staff noted that Caltrans determined the Highway 1 and 166 crosswalk did not meet moving standards and must be removed.
- A financial brief for the Capital Campaign was delayed for accuracy and is scheduled for the 10th of the month.
Public Works Update
- Demolition is proceeding at the Royal Theater, while work on the 303 Project courtyard is expected to start within the week.
- Staff outlined upcoming grants, including $375,000 for street repaving and over $230,000 for the senior center.
- The city must remove flashing lights at a specific intersection because codes prohibit combining them with stop signs.
Public Safety Report
- The Chief reported on recent community events, the acquisition of four new patrol vehicles, and a hit-and-run accident at Nelson and Main Street.
- Staff is in the final stages of closing out 2023 flooding cost factors with FEMA.
- Council requested a briefing on modernizing the city’s database systems, which staff indicated requires prioritization.
Public Hearing – Appeal 2825-048 AP
- Staff explained that the Junior ADU application was denied because state code prohibits them in detached structures.
- The Workshop application was denied due to a setback discrepancy on a legal nonconforming structure.
- Council adopted Resolution 2026-02 to uphold the Planning Department’s decision to deny both zoning clearance applications.
Regular Business – Pre-Application 2025-49-PA
- Staff described a proposal for a workshop, outdoor storage, and horse stable on a 9.4-acre Open Space zoned property.
- Staff noted that allowing horse stables would require specific findings to override the Municipal Code's livestock prohibition.
- The item was presented for review without a final vote, as the applicant was advised there is no guarantee of approval.
Conveyance of Former Redevelopment Agency Parcel
- Staff reported that the City acquired a six-seventh share of the property, with a one-seventh share owned by private heirs.
- The transfer is subject to a compensation agreement that may limit the range of possible uses for the site.
- Council adopted Resolution 2026-03 to approve the conveyance of the parcel.
Establishing the Royal Theater Oversight Committee
- Staff presented options for the committee structure, noting concerns about the fiscal impact of a Brown Act body.
- Residents requested that Council wait to make a decision until the full financial report is available.
- Council voted to table the item until the February 24th meeting to allow time for the financial report review.
Future Agenda Items
- The Vacant Building Registration Fee ordinance was pulled from the calendar to determine the cost of services provided.
- The SLOCAL Route 1 Community Benefit Fee ordinance is moving forward with a target to be ready by April.
Other Business
- The Food Bank reported serving 246 families the previous Thursday, including 65 first-time clients.
- Council members noted an upcoming SPCAG meeting and received calls regarding ICE detentions in the region.
Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) and Related Resolutions
- Special Counsel presented a "Last and Final ROPS" filing to eliminate annual submissions through 2037.
- A backup ROPS filing for fiscal year 2026-2027 was presented to ensure uninterrupted bond payments.
- Council approved Resolution 2026-01 and Successor Agency Resolution 2026-02.
Full summary
Roll Call and Pledge of Allegiance
- The meeting was called to order. Roll call indicated Council Members Acosta Jr., Fernandez, and Hernandez, and Mayor Julian were present; Council Member Villegas was absent. A quorum was established, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Moment of Thanks, Appreciation, and Condolences
- Condolences were offered for Georgia Moreno, Luis Moreno, Annette Stewart, and Renee and Nicole Good. General acknowledgments were made for families grieving and residents experiencing losses.
Community Participation
- John Rohner, Public Affairs Manager for SoCalGas, introduced himself and stated the company’s commitment to supporting local governments. He provided his contact information to the City Clerk. No other members of the public spoke.
Ceremonial Calendar: Human Trafficking Awareness Month Proclamation
- Council Member Hernandez read a proclamation recognizing January 2026 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month, noting California’s high reporting rates and the work of the Santa Barbara County Human Trafficking Task Force. Anne McCarty, Executive Director of the North County Rape Crisis and Child Protection Center, spoke on behalf of the Task Force, describing its coalition structure and services, and offered to provide presentations to local businesses and schools. Council Member Fernandez announced that the Rotary Club is hosting a human trafficking awareness forum on January 22 at the Santa Maria Country Club.
Presentation: Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) Administrative Draft
- Kevin Cullinan, Urban Forest Planner for Dudek, presented the draft UFMP, the first of its kind for the City of Guadalupe. Key points included:
- Purpose: A guiding document for managing tree canopy on public and private lands.
- Findings: The city lacks a dedicated urban forestry budget and staff. Citywide canopy cover is 4.2% (approx. 31 acres), with significant losses on private property between 2018 and 2022. An inventory identified nearly 800 tree sites. A survey indicated 88% support for street trees.
- Goals: Implement consistent practices, establish a dedicated budget, achieve 10% citywide canopy cover by 2066 (requiring approx. 1,300 new trees), and increase private property planting. A stretch goal is "Tree City USA" certification within 5–10 years.
- Next Steps: A public comment period of approximately 30 days will follow, with the final plan expected to return to the City Council for adoption in late February.
Q&A Session
- Species and Zoning: Cullinan confirmed the recommended species list includes native and non-native trees selected for climate adaptation. Enhancing zoning codes for tree requirements in new developments is a recommended action.
- Maintenance: Mayor Julian discussed past issues with tree survival in parks. Cullinan noted that over 90% of tree losses occurred on private property and emphasized the need for establishment care.
- Specific Trees: Tall willows in the Goulart tract area count toward canopy cover. Palms are generally discouraged due to maintenance needs and lower shade/oxygen benefits.
- Private Property Support: Cullinan suggested community workshops and leveraging the city’s new in-house arborist to assist private owners.
- Flower Avenue: The city owns a strip of land on the east side of Flower Avenue, identified as a potential future planting site.
- Fire Risk: Cullinan stated Guadalupe is not considered a high-risk area, but the plan addresses fire safety in coordination with Cal Fire.
- Public Access: UFMP information will be available on the city’s website and social media, with a dedicated email for comments.
Consent Calendar
- A motion was made to approve the consent calendar. The motion was seconded. There was no discussion. The vote was taken, and the motion passed unanimously.
Interim City Administrator Information Only Report
- The Interim City Administrator provided a report on Public Works and administrative matters:
- Public Works: Installation of speed bumps in the Pasadena neighborhood is in progress. A pedestrian crosswalk was installed at Highway 1 and 166. The city’s engineering technician obtained ISA certification as an arborist. Repairs were made to water leaks in City Hall. Storm drain cleaning was performed following recent storms. Removal of the caboose at the Amtrak station is pending scheduling. SCADA repairs at the Water Plant are ongoing. The Wastewater Plant is operating normally.
- Administrative: A financial brief for the Capital Campaign was delayed for accuracy and is scheduled for the 10th of the month. Caltrans and the State Engineer determined the crosswalk at Highway 1 and 166 did not meet moving standards for vehicle traffic; the city is required to remove it by the following day.
Public Works Update
- Staff provided an overview of ongoing projects and grant funding:
- Royal Theater: Demolition is proceeding with selective demolition to keep pace with asbestos abatement. Foundation issues are being investigated.
- 303 Project: The notice to proceed was received, and work on the courtyard is expected to start within the week.
- Las Mujeres: The goal is for the contractor to start work on February 2, with a groundbreaking ceremony planned for the end of the month.
- Grants: Upcoming grants include a $375,000 CalRecycle grant for street repaving, a $21,000 grant for charger replacement at Veterans Memorial Plaza, an earmark of upwards of $230,000 for the senior center, and a $5,000 CalRecycle grant for recycling bins and a water fountain at City Hall.
- Chargers: Discussion occurred regarding the transition of the Veterans Memorial Plaza charger to a paid model. Staff noted that notice will be provided via social media and the website.
- Traffic Signals: Staff confirmed that flashing lights at a specific corner must be removed because codes prohibit having a flashing yellow light and a stop sign at the same intersection.
- City Hall Repairs: Staff clarified that a separate $1.1 million state allocation for City Hall repairs includes funds for public safety emergency services and general repairs. A presentation on roof repairs is scheduled for the end of the month.
- Park Signage: Staff stated they had not received information regarding educational signage at the parks, only regarding advertising signage.
Public Safety Report
- The Chief of Public Safety provided a report on recent activities and incidents:
- Community Events: A "Cares for Paws" event was held on Ninth Street. A follow-up event with veterinary services is scheduled for the 16th.
- Vehicles: Four new patrol vehicles were acquired using state funding.
- Traffic Incidents: Data for 2023–2025 at specific intersections showed an increase in traffic-related incidents. The Pasadena development area remains a traffic concern.
- FEMA: The city is in the final stages of closing out 2023 flooding cost factors with FEMA.
- Community Engagement: The Christmas candy giveaway was completed. Staff is exploring a partnership with the Santa Barbara Police Department to establish a Police Athletic League.
- Vandalism: Recent vandalism was documented, and staff are reviewing camera footage.
- Accident Report: A hit-and-run accident occurred at Nelson and Main Street the previous night. No injuries were reported.
- Data Systems: A council member requested a briefing on modernizing the city’s database systems. Staff indicated this would require a staff discussion and prioritization.
- Vehicle Marking: The Chief confirmed that all patrol vehicles will remain marked.
Item 11: Public Hearing – Appeal 2825-048 AP
- Motion: To consider an appeal of the Planning Director’s decision to deny zoning clearance applications 2025-22-ZC (Junior ADU) and 2025-26-ZC (Workshop) for the property at 239 Campo Donaco Avenue.
- Discussion: Staff explained that the Junior ADU application was denied because state code prohibits Junior ADUs in detached accessory structures. The Workshop application was denied because the existing detached garage is a legal nonconforming structure with a 2.5-foot side yard setback, while home additions require a 5-foot setback. Staff noted that allowing the 1.5-foot discrepancy would set a precedent. The applicant requested a waiver of the 4-foot setback requirement, arguing that the discrepancy is minor and demolition/reconstruction would be financially prohibitive. Council members discussed the precedent-setting nature of the decision.
- Motion: Council Member Acosta moved to adopt Resolution 2026-02 to uphold the Planning Department’s decision to deny zoning clearance applications 2025-22-ZC and 2025-26-ZC.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The resolution passed.
Item 12: Regular Business – Pre-Application 2025-49-PA
- Motion: To review a pre-application request to establish a workshop, outdoor storage facility, and horse stable on a portion of a 9.4-acre property on the east side of Peralta Street.
- Discussion: Staff described the property as zoned OS (Open Space) and currently undeveloped. The applicant proposes a private workshop for farm equipment repair and horse stables. Staff noted that workshop and storage uses are typically directed to industrial zones but are allowed as conditional uses in the OS zone via a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). A biological assessment is required before any grading or construction. Title VI of the Municipal Code prohibits keeping livestock within the city; allowing horse stables would require specific findings that such use is consistent with the intent of the prohibition and compatible with neighboring properties.
- Public Comment: One speaker, representing a farm labor contractor, requested permission to build a simple shop for equipment repair and parking. Another speaker, a long-time harvester, requested space to park lowboy trailers and other equipment. A written comment from a resident was read into the record opposing the proposal of a horse stable near the city, citing health and safety concerns.
- Staff Update: Staff provided an update on the feasibility of the requested shop, noting that a CUP is discretionary and requires further review, including a biological report. Staff indicated that while a small shop on the westerly end of the parcel might be possible, there are significant uncertainties regarding the biological assessment and the lack of a detailed project description. The applicant was advised that there is no guarantee of approval.
- Status: The item was presented for review. The applicant was present to explain the proposal. No vote or final decision on this item was recorded in the provided text.
Item 13: Conveyance of Former Redevelopment Agency Parcel
- Staff presented a report on the conveyance of a former Redevelopment Agency parcel to the City of Guadalupe. The original plan was to sell the property after remediation, but the successor agency attorney found a way to transfer it to the City for "future development" rather than an open-market sale. This transfer is subject to a compensation agreement for any future development. Two issues were highlighted: 1. Title Issue: The City only acquired a six-seventh share of the property; a one-seventh share is owned by the heirs of Francis E. Cappadonico. The City intends to hold the quitclaim deed without recording it until this title issue is resolved. 2. Use Restrictions: The range of possible uses for the property may be limited compared to an open-market sale. Using the site for a city facility would require an amendment to the compensation agreement, which needs sign-off from approximately 15 parties.
- Motion: A motion was made to adopt Resolution 2026-03.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The resolution passed.
Item 14: Establishing the Royal Theater Oversight Committee
- Staff presented options for the structure of the Royal Theater Oversight Committee: a five-member Brown Act body or a two-person Council member committee (exempt from the Brown Act). Staff noted that the committee would be advisory only and expressed concerns about the fiscal impact and administrative burden of a Brown Act body. Council members discussed the previous decision to establish a five-member committee and expressed frustration with the lack of transparency and financial clarity regarding the Royal Theater project. Public comments were received from residents who requested that the Council wait to make a decision on the committee structure until the full financial report is available.
- Motion: A motion was made to table Item 14 until the February 24th Council meeting, allowing time for the financial report to be reviewed.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The motion to table the item passed.
Future Agenda Items
- Vacant Building Registration Fee: Staff reported that the ordinance was pulled from the calendar because the City cannot charge a fee without justifying the cost of services provided. Staff is working with planning and fire departments to determine the cost per square foot. The goal is to have a robust ordinance by March.
- SLOCAL Route 1 Community Benefit Fee: Staff confirmed that the ordinance is moving forward. HDL completed the required market analysis and specific studies in late December. The City is now preparing to bring the ordinance to the Council, with a target to have it ready by April.
Other Business
- SPCAG Meeting: The Council noted an upcoming SPCAG meeting at the Centeno Center.
- Food Bank Update: The Food Bank reported serving 246 families the previous Thursday, including 181 returning clients and 65 first-timers.
- Council Announcements: One Council member announced attending the swearing-in of Senator Monique Limon as Pro Tempore of the California Senate. Another Council member noted receiving calls from families regarding ICE detentions in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
Adjournment (First Session)
- A motion was made to adjourn to the Successor Agency Board meeting. The motion was seconded. The Council voted on the motion to adjourn. The motion passed.
Agenda Item: Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) and Related Resolutions
- Special Counsel Joy Atsuki presented two items concerning the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS), a form submitted to the Countywide Oversight Board and the Department of Finance to authorize the receipt of Redevelopment Property Tax Trust Fund (RPTTF) money for funding obligations. 1. Last and Final ROPS (through June 30, 2037): Atsuki explained that this filing would eliminate the need for annual ROPS submissions and annual Prior Period Adjustment (PPA) filings. Upon approval, the Successor Agency would receive RPTTF funds for bond payments and administrative costs through 2037 without further board action. Two opportunities exist to amend the ROPS during this period, which would require approval by the Successor Agency Board, the Oversight Board, and the Department of Finance. 2. ROPS 26-27 (Backup Filing): Atsuki described a second filing covering only the next fiscal year (2026-2027). This serves as a backup to ensure uninterrupted bond payments in the event the "Last and Final ROPS" is not approved in a timely manner. If the long-term ROPS is approved, it will supersede the 26-27 filing.
- Motion: A motion was made to approve Resolution 2026-01.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The resolution passed.
- Motion: A motion was made to approve the Successor Agency Resolution 2026-02.
- Second: The motion was seconded.
- Vote: The resolution passed.
Adjournment (Final)
- A motion to adjourn was made and seconded. Before voting, a reminder was given regarding the upcoming firefighter appreciation dinner and the grand opening of the ELC Learning Center. A voice vote was taken. The motion to adjourn passed.