Paramount

City Council Meeting

Agenda Items (12)

VideoNEW DEVELOPMENT GROUNDBREAKINGSOral Report

Summary

An oral report will be presented to the City Council featuring a video on two recent development groundbreakings:

  • Entrada housing development on Paramount Boulevard.
  • Hay Tree Public Market at the former Paramount Saw building site.

Citizen Impact

Residents can view a video highlighting the progress of new housing and a public market development in the city.

Confidence

high

Certificate of RecognitionSTUDENT MAYORS FOR THE DAYOral Report

Summary

The City Council will issue a Certificate of Recognition to Ramiro Lupercio Aquino from Jefferson Elementary School and Alina Belloso from Hollydale Elementary School. These students were selected by their respective schools to serve as Student Mayors for the Day for the month of February.

Citizen Impact

This is a ceremonial recognition of local students and has no direct impact on residents' daily lives or city services.

Confidence

high

ApprovalPROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH RDC-S111 (DBA STUDIO ONE ELEVEN) FOR THE DESIGN OF ADDITIONAL BUS SHELTERS AT VARIOUS CITY LOCATIONS (CITY PROJECT NO. 9672)Recommended Action:Approve an agreement with RDC-S111 DBA Studio One Eleven in the amount of $78,500 for architectural design services related to bus shelter renovations (City Project No. 9672) and authorize the Mayor or her designee to execute the agreement.Agenda ReportAgreement_Studio One Eleven (Bus Shelters_9672)

Summary

The City Council is considering an agreement with RDC-S111 (DBA Studio One Eleven) for $78,500 to provide architectural design services for additional bus shelters. This project, City Project No. 9672, aims to upgrade six existing bus stop locations that currently only have benches and trash receptacles. The design will be standardized to ensure aesthetic consistency with previously renovated shelters and will focus on rider comfort, safety, and durability, including integrated canopy coverage, lighting, and seating. The agreement has a term extending to April 30, 2027, to cover design through construction administration.

Citizen Impact

Residents can expect improved comfort and protection from the elements at six high-ridership bus stops as new shelters will be designed and installed, promoting public transit use.

Confidence

high

AuthorizationFIRE FLOW INSTALLATION FOR THE HAY TREE PUBLIC MARKET LOCATED AT 16493 PARAMOUNT BOULEVARDRecommended Action:Authorize the installation of a 4-inch fire flow service by Doreck Construction for the Hay Tree Public Market, located at 16493 Paramount Boulevard.Agenda ReportDorek Proposal (16493 Paramount Blvd - 4_Inch Fire Service 251216)

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize the installation of a 4-inch fire flow service for the Hay Tree Public Market at 16493 Paramount Boulevard. This installation is a requirement for the building's development and permitting process, ensuring adequate water supply for fire suppression as mandated by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Doreck Construction submitted the lowest bid of $50,160 for the work. The developer will pay the full cost of the installation, plus a $1,030 administrative fee to the City, totaling $51,190. This project aligns with the City's strategic outcomes for a safe community and attractive infrastructure.

Citizen Impact

This action ensures the Hay Tree Public Market meets fire safety standards, contributing to public safety. The developer covers all costs, so there is no direct financial impact on residents.

Confidence

high

Ordinance1212AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PARAMOUNT AMENDING SUBSECTIONS 13.04.470(D) AND (E), DELETING SECTION 16.24.060 OF THE PARAMOUNT MUNICIPAL CODE, AND ADDING CHAPTER 3.40, ESTABLISHING THE DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES PROGRAM THAT INCLUDES A COMMERCIAL LINKAGE FEE APPLICABLE TO CERTAIN NEW ACTIVITIES AND DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN THE CITY AND MAKING A FINDING OF EXEMPTION UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)”Recommended Action:Adopt Ordinance No. 1212.Agenda ReportOrdinance No. 1212 REVISED (redline)Ordinance No. 1212 Agenda Report_2026_02_10

Summary

The City Council of Paramount adopted Ordinance No. 1212 on February 24, 2026, establishing a comprehensive Development Impact Fees (DIF) Program, effective April 25, 2026. This ordinance amends existing municipal code sections and adds Chapter 3.40 to implement fees on new development and certain changes of use.

Key Provisions:

  • Seven Fee Categories: The program includes fees for Public Safety Facilities, Parks Facilities, General Government Facilities, Storm Drain Facilities, Transportation, Water Capacity, and a Commercial Linkage Fee for affordable housing.
  • Funding Infrastructure: The fees are designed to fund a portion of the City's Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which totals $52,461,923. The DIF program is projected to generate approximately $5.7 million through 2035, covering about 11% of these costs, with the remainder from other City funds and grants.
  • Fee Structure: Most fees are calculated on a per square foot basis for residential and nonresidential development. Water Capacity fees are based on Meter Equivalent Units (MEUs).
  • Exemptions: Reconstruction or residential additions to single-family dwellings that do not result in a net increase in gross floor area are exempt. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) less than 750 square feet are also exempt.
  • Annual Adjustments: Fees will be automatically adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) for Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.

Examples of Adopted Fees (per square foot, unless noted):

  • Residential: Public Safety $0.11, Parks $1.10, General Facilities $0.07, Transportation $0.54, Stormwater $0.48.
  • Commercial Linkage Fee: Retail/Office $4.00, Industrial/Warehouse $3.00.
  • Water Capacity: $2,096 for 5/8" or 3/4" meter.

Citizen Impact

This new fee program ensures that new development contributes its fair share to the cost of public services and infrastructure, reducing the financial burden on existing taxpayers. Residents will benefit from improved public safety facilities, parks, transportation networks, storm drains, and water infrastructure. The Commercial Linkage Fee will also help fund affordable housing initiatives for workers in new commercial developments.

Confidence

high

Ordinance1214AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PARAMOUNT AMENDING CHAPTERS 8.04.010 AND 8.04.040 OF THE PARAMOUNT MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING INCORPORATION OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY HEALTH AND SAFETY CODERecommended Action:Introduce Ordinance No. 1214 and set a public hearing date of March 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. for consideration of adoption of Ordinance No. 1214.Agenda ReportOrdinance No. 1214

Summary

Ordinance No. 1214 amends Chapters 8.04.010 and 8.04.040 of the Paramount Municipal Code. This ordinance formally adopts by reference the current Los Angeles County Health and Safety Code as the City's Health Code. This is an annual process to ensure the City is utilizing the most up-to-date county regulations for public health and sanitation. The ordinance also specifies penalties for violations, which are punishable as a misdemeanor with fines up to $500.00 or imprisonment up to six months, or both. The City Council is recommended to introduce this ordinance and set a public hearing for its adoption on March 10, 2026.

Citizen Impact

This ordinance ensures that the City of Paramount continues to enforce the latest public health and safety standards by adopting the Los Angeles County Health and Safety Code. Residents will be subject to these updated regulations, which are enforced through potential misdemeanor penalties for violations.

Confidence

high

Ordinance1215AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PARAMOUNT AMENDING CHAPTERS 10.04.010 AND 10.04.020 OF THE PARAMOUNT MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING INCORPORATION OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY TRAFFIC CODERecommended Action:Introduce Ordinance No. 1215 and set a public hearing date of March 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. for consideration of adoption of Ordinance No. 1215.Agenda ReportOrdinance No. 1215

Summary

Ordinance No. 1215 amends Chapters 10.04.010 and 10.04.020 of the Paramount Municipal Code. This ordinance annually readopts by reference the Los Angeles County Traffic Code as the official Traffic Code for the City of Paramount. This ensures the city is utilizing the most current version of the county's traffic regulations. The ordinance also reiterates penalties for violations, stating that the first and second violations may be cited as infractions or misdemeanors, while the third violation will be punished as a misdemeanor with a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment up to six months, or both. Each day a violation continues is considered a separate offense. The ordinance is scheduled for a public hearing on March 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. for consideration of adoption.

Citizen Impact

This ordinance ensures that Paramount residents will adhere to the most current traffic laws as defined by Los Angeles County. Penalties for traffic violations remain consistent with previous enforcement, with escalating consequences for repeat offenses.

Confidence

high

Oral ReportYOUTH ACTIVITIES LEAGUE PROGRAM OVERVIEWRecommended Action:N/AOral Report

Summary

This is an oral report from the Public Safety Director providing an overview of the Youth Activities League (YAL) Program in Paramount. The YAL Program, operated by the Sheriff's Youth Foundation, offers after-school activities for at-risk youth aged 7-17, focusing on academics, recreation, and physical fitness. The City of Paramount hosts a YAL Program at Spane Park, which is staffed by a Deputy Sheriff, three civilian contractors, and a monthly Life Skills Coach. Deputy Aguilar, the YAL Program Manager, will present a recap of the program's activities in 2025.

Citizen Impact

The YAL Program at Spane Park provides valuable after-school support for at-risk youth in the community, focusing on academics and recreation.

Confidence

high

ReportSIX MONTH REVIEW OF DRONE SERVICES WITH FLYING LION, INC. FOR MOTOR VEHICLE SPEED CONTESTS OR EXHIBITIONS OF SPEEDRecommended Action:Provide feedback to staff on the future use of drone services for motor vehicle speed contests and exhibitions of speed and receive and file this report.Agenda Report

Summary

This report details a six-month pilot program (August 21, 2025 – January 31, 2026) evaluating the use of drone services provided by Flying Lion, Inc. (FLI) to deter motor vehicle speed contests and exhibitions of speed. The program involved FLI pilots deploying drones citywide four days a week, five hours per day, during high-probability street racing times. The drones operated in an observe-and-report capacity, generating calls for service to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD).

Key Findings:

  • Operational Limitations: 17 contracted days were lost due to weather, technical issues, or pilot emergencies. Inclement weather (rain, fog, heavy clouds) accounted for 76% of lost deployment time, significantly restricting drone use.
  • Effectiveness: FLI reported 12 street takeovers, with an average LASD response time of 4.5 minutes (excluding two major emergency delays). However, LASD recorded 19 total incidents during the same periods, with FLI missing seven due to limited flight paths, charging needs, weather, and other operational issues.
  • Optimal Conditions: Drone surveillance is most effective in non-active communities with high law enforcement response times, consistent violation areas, ideal weather, and sufficient drones for overlapping coverage. Paramount's active community and relatively quick response times limited the drone's impact.
  • Fiscal Impact: The program expended approximately $82,000 of the $109,000 allocated in the FY 2025-26 budget. No additional fiscal impact is anticipated.

Citizen Impact

The pilot program provided feedback on the effectiveness of drone technology in deterring street racing. While the drones captured some incidents, their effectiveness was limited by weather and operational constraints, and their observations were sometimes redundant or missed incidents. Residents are asked to provide feedback on the future use of this technology.

Confidence

high

ApprovalFIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FOR FISCAL YEARS 2026-30Recommended Action:Approve the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program Plan for Fiscal Years 2026-30.Agenda Report5-Year CIP_FINAL

Summary

The City Council is asked to approve the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Plan for Fiscal Years 2026-30, serving as a strategic roadmap for infrastructure and facility investments. This comprehensive plan outlines projected spending of approximately $179.7 million across various categories, though a significant portion, $53.9 million, is currently unfunded.

Key Investment Areas:

  • Street & Signal Projects: Totaling $81.8 million, these include annual arterial and neighborhood street resurfacing (approx. $1.4M and $1.85M annually, respectively), alley improvements, the West Santa Ana Branch Bikeway (over $20M across phases), Alondra Blvd Widening ($11.2M), and storm drain improvements ($7.7M).
  • Park Projects: Totaling $47.2 million, notable projects include the Paramount Park Community Center Renovation & Expansion ($16.1M), Century Greenway Park ($4.1M), and various playground replacements and ballfield renovations.
  • Miscellaneous Projects: Totaling $29.1 million, this category covers City Hall and City Yard renovations, an Affordable Housing project ($2M), and the installation of 6 new bus shelters ($580,000).
  • Sustainability Projects: Totaling $21.1 million, with a major focus on the Spane Park Stormwater Capture and Infiltration Facility ($18.3M).
  • Water Projects: Totaling $10.4 million, including Water Main Improvements ($3.5M) and Advanced Metering Infrastructure ($4.4M).

This document is a multi-year planning framework, with actual appropriations authorized annually through the budget process.

Citizen Impact

This plan directly impacts residents by outlining major investments in local roads, parks, and water infrastructure over the next five years. It promises improved street conditions, enhanced recreational facilities, more reliable water services, and new bikeway access. The $53.9 million in unfunded projects indicates potential future funding needs or adjustments to project timelines.

Confidence

high

ApprovalFIFTH AMENDMENT TO THE CITY MANAGER’S EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTRecommended Action:1) Approve a budget adjustment for FY 2025-26 in the amount of $8,000 to cover this expense; and 2) Approve the Fifth Amendment to the Amended and Restated City Manager Employment Agreement between the City of Paramount and John Moreno.Agenda ReportFifth Amendment to City Manager Employment Agreement

Summary

The City Council is considering approving the Fifth Amendment to the City Manager's Employment Agreement with John Moreno. This amendment will provide a one-time health and wellness benefit of $8,000 for a comprehensive executive health examination in 2026. The City Council has also awarded Mr. Moreno an additional week of vacation time, which is provided under the existing agreement's performance benefit terms. A budget adjustment of $8,000 is required for FY 2025-26 to cover the health and wellness benefit.

Citizen Impact

This item involves a $8,000 one-time benefit for the City Manager's health and wellness, funded through an approved budget adjustment. There is no direct tax increase for residents.

Confidence

high

To a meeting onMarch 10, 2026 at6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 16400 Colorado Ave., Paramount, CA