20250218 Regular City Council Meeting - PacketRegular City Council Meeting Agenda February 18, 2025
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Agenda
City of Vernon
Regular City Council Meeting
Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 9:00 AM
City Hall, Council Chamber
4305 Santa Fe Avenue, Vernon, California
Judith Merlo, Mayor
Melissa Ybarra, Mayor Pro Tem
Leticia Lopez, Council Member
Jesus Rivera, Council Member
Crystal Larios, Council Member
The public is encouraged to view the agenda and meeting at CityofVernon.org/publicmeetings. You
may address the Council in the Council Chamber, via mail or email to
PublicComment@cityofvernonca.gov, include the meeting date and item number in the subject line
(mail and/or email must be received at least two hours prior to the start of the meeting).
CALL TO ORDER
FLAG SALUTE
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENT
At this time the public is encouraged to address the City Council on any matter that is within the
subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council. The public will also be given a chance to comment
on matters which are on the posted agenda during City Council deliberation on those specific
matters.
PRESENTATIONS
1. City Administrator Report
Recommendation:
Receive presentation on various topics including Business Activity, City of Vernon 120th
Anniversary, Reconnecting Communities Grant Award, Vernon’s Tree Canopy Project,
Business Engagement, and Community Events.
2. Employee Service Pin Awards
Recommendation:
Regular City Council Meeting Agenda February 18, 2025
Page 2 of 5
Recognize January 2025 Employee Service Pin Award recipients.
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed on the Consent Calendar may be approved with one motion. Items may be
removed from the Consent Calendar for individual consideration. Removed items will be
considered immediately following the Consent Calendar.
3. Meeting Minutes
Recommendation:
Approve the February 4, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes.
4. Claims Against the City
Recommendation:
Receive and file the claims submitted by Manuel Cortez and Melvin Humphries.
5. Operating Account Warrant Register
Recommendation:
Approve Operating Account Warrant Register No. 144, for the period of January 5, 2025
through January 18, 2025, totaling $7,884,924.77 and consisting of ratification of electronic
payments totaling $7,455,315.50 and ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling
$429,609.27.
6. Fire Department Activity Report
Recommendation:
Receive and file the December 2024 Fire Department Activity Report.
7. Police Department Activity Report
Recommendation:
Receive and file the December 2024 Police Department Activity Report.
8. New and Revised Personnel Policies and Revised Administrative Manual Policy
Recommendation:
A. Adopt revised Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual Policy I - 8 Employee Separation
Policy (revised);
B. Adopt a revised Administrative Policy Manual Policy Section 1.1 Miscellaneous Taxation on
City Vehicles Used by City Employees (revised); and
C. Authorize the City Administrator and Director of Human Resources to execute and distribute
the Policies.
9. Change Order No. 15 to the Consulting Services Agreement (CS-0099) with CNS
Engineers, Inc. (CNS) for the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge Rehabilitation and Widening
Project
Recommendation:
A. Find that approval of the proposed change order is within the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative
Declaration prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15063 of the CEQA Guidelines;
and
B. Approve and authorize the City Administrator to execute Agreement Change Order No. 15,
in substantially the same form as submitted, for the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge Rehabilitation
and Widening Project, Federal Project No. DBPL02-5139(010), Contract No. CS-0099 with
Regular City Council Meeting Agenda February 18, 2025
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CNS, extending the agreement for an additional year to December 31, 2025 and authorizing
CNS to provide additional support and coordination services required to complete the design
phase of the project for the additional cost of $140,579.50, with a Change Order effective date
of December 31, 2024.
10. Notice of Completion for Citywide Striping and Pavement Markings, Contract No.
20250017
Recommendation:
A. Find that the proposed action is categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) review, in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities),
part (a) (existing highways and streets), because the project consists of the maintenance,
repair or minor alteration of existing streets and involves negligible or no expansion of an
existing use;
B. Accept the work of WGJ Enterprises Inc., dba PCI as related to City Contract No. 20250017;
and
C. Authorize the Director of Public Works to execute and submit the Notice of Completion for
the project to the Los Angeles County Recorder’s Office.
11. Purchase of Electric Vehicle for Police Department
Recommendation:
A. Approve and authorize issuance of a Purchase Order to Tesla, Inc. for the purchase of a
new Model Y vehicle for a total amount not-to-exceed $56,378; and
B. Authorize a contingency amount of ten (10%) percent or $5,638, for pricing fluctuations and
grant authority to the City Administrator to issue a Change Order for an amount up to the
contingency amount, if necessary.
12. Amendment No. 2 to the License and Software Services Agreement with Power
Settlements Consulting and Software, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of YES Energy
LLC
Recommendation:
A. Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code Sections 3.32.220 (B) and 3.32.110 (B)(3), find that it
is commercially unreasonable to rebid the contract for settlement software due to the
substantial financial and operational commitment required from the City, as well as the
considerable learning curve associated with frequent changes in selecting licensing and
software services from a new vendor;
B. Approve and Authorize the City Administrator to execute Amendment No. 2 to the License
and Software Service Agreement with Power Settlements Consulting and Software, LLC, a
wholly owned subsidiary of YES Energy LLC, in substantially the same form as submitted, for
license and software services, for a total amount not-to-exceed $303,440, for a three-year
term; and
C. Authorize a contingency amount of ten percent (10%) or $30,344 for unforeseen fluctuations
in the Consumer Price Index, and grant authority to the City Administrator to take such actions,
as necessary.
13. Renewable Portfolio Standard Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program
Recommendation:
A. Approve and adopt the updated Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) Procurement Plan
and Enforcement Program; and
B. Repeal Resolution No. 2012-02.
Regular City Council Meeting Agenda February 18, 2025
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14. City of Vernon 2025-2026 Legislative and Regulatory Platform
Recommendation:
Approve and adopt the City of Vernon 2025-2026 Legislative and Regulatory Platform.
ORAL REPORTS
15. City Administrator Reports on Activities and Other Announcements
16. Council Reports on Activities (including AB 1234), Announcements, or Directives to
Staff
ADJOURNMENT
On February 13, 2025, the foregoing agenda was posted in accordance with the applicable legal
requirements. Regular and Adjourned Regular meeting agendas may be amended up to 72 hours
and Special meeting agendas may be amended up to 24 hours in advance of the meeting.
Regular City Council Meeting Agenda February 18, 2025
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Guide to City Council Proceedings
Meetings of the City Council are held the first and third Tuesday of each month at 9:00 a.m. and are
conducted in accordance with Rosenberg's Rules of Order (Vernon Municipal Code Section 2.04.020).
Copies of all agenda items and back-up materials are available for review in the City Clerk
Department, Vernon City Hall, 4305 Santa Fe Avenue, Vernon, California, and are available for public
inspection during regular business hours, Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Agenda
reports may be reviewed on the City's website at www.cityofvernon.org or copies may be purchased
for $0.10 per page.
Disability-related services are available to enable persons with a disability to participate in this
meeting, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In compliance with ADA, if you
need special assistance, please contact the City Clerk department at CityClerk@cityofvernon.org or
(323) 583-8811 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to assure arrangements can be made.
The Public Comment portion of the agenda is for members of the public to present items, which are
not listed on the agenda but are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council. The City
Council cannot take action on any item that is not on the agenda but matters raised under Public
Comment may be referred to staff or scheduled on a future agenda. Comments are limited to three
minutes per speaker unless a different time limit is announced. Speaker slips are available at the
entrance to the Council Chamber.
Public Hearings are legally noticed hearings. For hearings involving zoning matters, the applicant
and appellant will be given 15 minutes to present their position to the City Council. Time may be set
aside for rebuttal. All other testimony shall follow the rules as set for under Public Comment. If you
challenge any City action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone
else raised during the public hearing, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at or
prior to the public hearing.
Consent Calendar items may be approved by a single motion. If a Council Member or the public
wishes to discuss an item, it may be removed from the calendar for individual consideration. Council
Members may indicate a negative or abstaining vote on any individual item by so declaring prior to
the vote on the motion to adopt the Consent Calendar. Items excluded from the Consent Calendar will
be taken up following action on the Consent Calendar. Public speakers shall follow the guidelines as
set forth under Public Comment.
New Business items are matters appearing before the Council for the first time for formal action.
Those wishing to address the Council on New Business items shall follow the guidelines for Public
Comment.
Closed Session allows the Council to discuss specific matters pursuant to the Brown Act,
Government Code Section 54956.9. Based on the advice of the City Attorney, discussion of these
matters in open session would prejudice the position of the City. Following Closed Session, the City
Attorney will provide an oral report on any reportable matters discussed and actions taken. At the
conclusion of Closed Session, the Council may continue any item listed on the Closed Session agenda
to the Open Session agenda for discussion or to take formal action as it deems appropriate.
City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Daniel Calleros, Interim City Administrator
Department:City Administration
Submitted by:Diana Figueroa, Senior Management Analyst
Subject
City Administrator Report
Recommendation
Receive presentation on various topics including Business Activity, City of Vernon 120th
Anniversary, Reconnecting Communities Grant Award, Vernon’s Tree Canopy Project, Business
Engagement, and Community Events.
Background
The City Administrator Report is a presentation highlighting City projects, responses to Council
inquiries, and events and activities of interest to the community. The report will be available at
the time of the meeting.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
None.
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Lisette Grizzelle, Interim Director of Human Resources
Department:Human Resources
Submitted by:Veronica Avendano, Human Resources Specialist
Subject
Employee Service Pin Awards
Recommendation
Recognize January 2025 Employee Service Pin Award recipients.
Background
The following employees are eligible to receive their service pin based on the number of service
years with the City of Vernon:
TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE
Belinda Arellano, Police Dispatcher, Hired January 2000
FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE
Teresa Flores, Police Officer, Hired January 2020
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
None.
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Deborah Harrington, Interim City Clerk
Department:City Clerk
Submitted by:Sandra Dolson, City Clerk Specialist
Subject
Meeting Minutes
Recommendation
Approve the February 4, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes.
Background
Staff has prepared and submits the minutes for approval.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
1. February 4, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Deborah Harrington, Interim City Clerk
Department:City Clerk
Submitted by:Yonnie Parker, Deputy City Clerk
Subject
Claims Against the City
Recommendation
Receive and file the claims submitted by Manuel Cortez and Melvin Humphries.
Background
The City received the following claims and pursuant to Municipal Code Section 2.32.040, the
claim is being presented to the City Council as soon after filing of the claim with the City as
practical.
Name of Claimant Amount Demanded Date Received
Manuel Cortez $2,457.24 January 22, 2025
Melvin Humphries $250 January 27, 2025
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
1. Manuel Cortez Claim
2. Melvin Humphries Claim
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Gigi Decavalles-Hughes, Interim Director of Finance
Department:Finance
Submitted by:Kathryne Magana, Accountant
Subject
Operating Account Warrant Register
Recommendation
Approve Operating Account Warrant Register No. 144, for the period of January 5, 2025 through
January 18, 2025, totaling $7,884,924.77 and consisting of ratification of electronic payments
totaling $7,455,315.50 and ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling $429,609.27.
Background
Vernon Municipal Code Section 2.32.060 indicates the City Treasurer, or an authorized
designee, shall prepare warrants covering claims or demands against the City which are to be
presented to City Council for its audit and approval. Pursuant to the aforementioned code section,
the Interim City Treasurer has prepared Operating Account Warrant Register No. 144 covering
claims and demands presented during the period of January 5 through January 18, 2025, drawn,
or to be drawn, from East West Bank for City Council approval.
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact of approving Operating Account Warrant Register No. 144, totals
$7,884,924.77. The Finance Department has determined that sufficient funds to pay such
claims/demands, are available in the respective accounts referenced on Operating Account
Warrant Register No. 144.
Attachments
1. Operating Account Warrant Register No. 144
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Daniel Calleros, Interim City Administrator
Department:City Administration
Submitted by:Diana Figueroa, Senior Management Analyst
Subject
Fire Department Activity Report
Recommendation
Receive and file the December 2024 Fire Department Activity Report.
Background
Attached is a copy of a Fire Department Activity Report which covers the period of December 1
through December 31, 2024. The report is provided by Los Angeles County Fire and consists of
incident details and a summary for the month.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
1. Fire Department Activity Report – December 2024
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Robert Sousa, Chief of Police
Department:Police
Submitted by:Donna Aggers, Records Manager
Subject
Police Department Activity Report
Recommendation
Receive and file the December 2024 Police Department Activity Report.
Background
The Vernon Police Department’s activity report consists of activity during the specified reporting
period, including a summary of calls for service, and statistical information regarding arrests,
traffic collisions, stored and impounded vehicles, recovered stolen vehicles, the number of
citations issued, and the number of reports filed.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
1. December 2024 Police Department Activity Report
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Lisette Grizzelle, Interim Director of Human Resources
Department:Human Resources
Submitted by:Lisette Grizzelle, Interim Director of Human Resources
Subject
New and Revised Personnel Policies and Revised Administrative Manual Policy
Recommendation
A. Adopt revised Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual Policy I - 8 Employee Separation
Policy (revised);
B. Adopt a revised Administrative Policy Manual Policy Section 1.1 Miscellaneous Taxation on
City Vehicles Used by City Employees (revised); and
C. Authorize the City Administrator and Director of Human Resources to execute and distribute
the Policies.
Background
The Human Resources (HR) Department is responsible for maintaining and administering the
City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and Administrative Manual which contain a
variety of policies affecting City employees.
The Employee Separation Policy I – 8 (Attachment 1) has proposed revisions to ensure
consistency with existing policies, addition of a definitions section, clarification language, and
revisions to a related form. The Taxation on City Vehicles Used by City Employees Administrative
Policy 1.1 (Attachment 2) contains IRS updates, revisions and clarification language. Redlines
of the policy changes have been provided for reference (Attachment 3).
HR staff sought input and collaborated with employee bargaining units, Finance staff, and City
Attorney’s Office and is recommending the proposed policy revisions for adoption and
implementation.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
1. Personnel and Procedures Manual Policy I - 8 Employee Separation Policy
2. Administrative Policy Manual Policy Section 1.1 Miscellaneous Taxation on City Vehicles Used
by City Employees.
3. Revised Policies Redlines for Reference
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Daniel S. Wall, P.E., Director of Public Works
Department:Public Works
Submitted by:Lissette Melendez, Project Engineer
Subject
Change Order No. 15 to the Consulting Services Agreement (CS-0099) with CNS Engineers,
Inc. (CNS) for the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge Rehabilitation and Widening Project
Recommendation
A. Find that approval of the proposed change order is within the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative
Declaration prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15063 of the CEQA Guidelines;
and
B. Approve and authorize the City Administrator to execute Agreement Change Order No. 15, in
substantially the same form as submitted, for the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge Rehabilitation and
Widening Project, Federal Project No. DBPL02-5139(010), Contract No. CS-0099 with CNS,
extending the agreement for an additional year to December 31, 2025 and authorizing CNS to
provide additional support and coordination services required to complete the design phase of
the project for the additional cost of $140,579.50, with a Change Order effective date of
December 31, 2024.
Background
The Atlantic Boulevard Bridge over the Los Angeles River was constructed in 1931 and consists
of concrete barrel arches with an earth-filled roadway and asphalt concrete pavement. The
average daily vehicle count traversing the bridge is over 50,000 per day. Atlantic Boulevard is a
vital artery serving not only the City of Vernon, but also the larger southeast community, as it is
a gateway for travel within the region. Due to the narrow pedestrian walkway and traffic lanes,
the bridge will be inadequate for the projected traffic volume of vehicles and trucks.
The Atlantic Boulevard Bridge over the Los Angeles River Agreement (Agreement) was awarded
in November 2009 to CNS via Resolution No. 10,112 for the design of the bridge rehabilitation
and right-of-way acquisition support. The Agreement was purposed to develop the plans for the
proposed widening and rehabilitation of the bridge, which will include widening of the roadway
bridge approaches, modifications of traffic signals, installation of California Public Utilities
Commission-approved railroad grade crossings devices, and flood control channel modifications.
Right-of-way activities along Atlantic Boulevard consist of either Temporary Construction
Easements (TCE) or permanent Street Easements (SE) to accommodate the widening of the
bridge and roadway and construction activities. The project also requires the relocation of
conflicting utilities, including power poles from the City’s Public Utilities Department, which is
concurrently developing relocation plans. Pursuant to the Agreement, the City is reimbursed
88.53% of the project cost through State and Federal funding.
The Agreement has been extended multiple times due to design delays caused by railroad
issues, proposed utility relocations, and right-of-way acquisition requirements which, in each
instance, have involved various agencies and subcontractors. Projects of this magnitude are
complex, and there are often unanticipated challenges that impact initial plans.
Each Agreement Change Order has addressed such issues and has modified the project
schedule timeline and adjusted the project budget as necessary.
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Item 9 Page 1 of 2
The proposed Agreement Change Order No. 15 is required to finalize the intricate and lengthy
Construction and Management Agreements with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF);
the acquisition of easements; to finalize permits from BNSF, Los Angeles Department of Water
and Power (LADWP), Los Angeles County Flood Control District (LACFCD), and private
properties; complete utility relocation coordination; and complete the Caltrans Right of Way
Certification for the Project. Due to the number of parties involved with this project, each with
their own requirements and schedules, the timeline for this phase of the project has exceeded
expectations.
Per Caltrans Local Assistance requirements, Change Orders extending a consultant’s contract
should be approved before the contract expires. City staff requested the necessary change order
estimate and related documents from the consultant prior to the contract expiration date and is
processing the change order at the earliest opportunity. In order to comply with Caltrans Local
Assistance requirements, Public Works is requesting that the proposed Change Order No. 15
have an effective date of December 31, 2024.
Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code (VMC) Section 3.32.030(A), all contracts shall be approved
only by the City Council with a total value over the lifetime of the contract above $100,000.
Approval of the proposed Change Order No. 15 would increase the total contract cost to
$2,597,327.71.
The proposed Agreement Change Order No. 15 has been reviewed and approved as to form by
the City Attorney’s Office.
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact is estimated at $140,579.50. Sufficient funds are available in General Fund,
Federal Grants, Street Operations Division, Capital Outlay Account No. 011-595-430-660000 for
the current fiscal year.
Attachments
1. Change Order No. 15
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Daniel S. Wall, P.E., Director of Public Works
Department:Public Works
Submitted by:Gerard Garcia, Assistant Engineer
Subject
Notice of Completion for Citywide Striping and Pavement Markings, Contract No. 20250017
Recommendation
A. Find that the proposed action is categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) review, in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities), part
(a) (existing highways and streets), because the project consists of the maintenance, repair or
minor alteration of existing streets and involves negligible or no expansion of an existing use;
B. Accept the work of WGJ Enterprises Inc., dba PCI as related to City Contract No. 20250017;
and
C. Authorize the Director of Public Works to execute and submit the Notice of Completion for the
project to the Los Angeles County Recorder’s Office.
Background
On August 6, 2024, the City Council awarded City Contract No. 20250017 Citywide Striping and
Pavement Markings in the amount of $265,900, including a 10% contingency. The final
construction cost was $198,442.88. This project involved re-striping the City street lane lines and
pavement markings in accordance with the latest Caltrans Standards.
City Contract No. 20250017 was completed and accepted on December 26, 2024, in accordance
with the project specifications and City Staff expectations.
The Notice of Completion was approved as to form by the City Attorney’s office.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
1. Notice of Completion - Contract No. 20250017
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Robert Sousa, Chief of Police
Department:Police
Submitted by:Gustavo Herrera, Lieutenant - Services Division
Subject
Purchase of Electric Vehicle for Police Department
Recommendation
A. Approve and authorize issuance of a Purchase Order to Tesla, Inc. for the purchase of a new
Model Y vehicle for a total amount not-to-exceed $56,378; and
B. Authorize a contingency amount of ten (10%) percent or $5,638, for pricing fluctuations and
grant authority to the City Administrator to issue a Change Order for an amount up to the
contingency amount, if necessary.
Background
The Vernon Police Department (VPD) budgeted the purchase of a new patrol vehicle within
Fiscal year 2024-25 to address a need in the Department as national supply issues and an
aging patrol fleet have caused a vehicle shortage within the VPD.
Due to the shortage of standard internal combustion engine police vehicles over the last few
years, in 2024, the VPD elected to explore available electric police vehicle options. After
reviewing research conducted by police agencies throughout the nation, including the Anaheim
and South Pasadena Police Departments, the VPD determined the Tesla Model Y was the best
option to meet the Department’s needs. On May 7, 2024 the City Council approved the
purchase of two new Tesla Model Y vehicles enabling the VPD to pilot the use of these
vehicles. Thus far, the VPD is satisfied with the performance of its current Model Y vehicles
and is opting to add to its pilot program of Model Y vehicles through the proposed purchase of
a new Model Y vehicle to be utilized as a patrol vehicle.
The Tesla Model Y proposed for patrol operations outperforms existing vehicle options, both
electric and gas-powered, in all relevant metrics. In addition, the Tesla Model Y is the only
pursuit-rated electric vehicle and is the safest vehicle ever crash-tested by the Insurance
Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It received a 5-star rating in all categories and sub-
categories by the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Several factors were considered by the VPD when evaluating EV options in 2024 including
safety, reliability, performance and technology. As part of this process VPD and City staff
inspected Tesla vehicles enroute to the South Pasadena Police Department. The Tesla Model
Y vehicles have advanced features, including rapid acceleration, ample storage capacity,
affordability, and low maintenance requirements, all of which are integral to police operations.
With state-of-the-art technology and safety features, in addition to the supercharging network
plans throughout the City, the Tesla EV’s are the best option to meet the Department’s needs.
Furthermore, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Fleet Rule 1191
mandates public fleet operators to procure low-emitting gasoline or alternative-fuel vehicles
when adding or replacing vehicles to their vehicle fleet. Vehicles must be replaced with newer
lower or zero-emission vehicles such as electric, compressed natural gas (CNG), hybrid, or
gasoline vehicles rated LEV or better. In addition to SCAQMD’s Rule 1191, the California Air .
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Resources Board (CARB) is developing an Advanced Clean Fleet regulation which mandates
public fleet operators to procure electric vehicles when adding or replacing vehicles in their
vehicle fleet beginning in 2024. Fleet electrification is also in alignment with the City’s goal to
reduce greenhouse gases and demonstrates the feasibility of newer technology in work
settings to the public.
As such, VPD is proposing to replace a patrol vehicle that is an internal combustion engine to
an electric vehicle. If approved, this vehicle will be added to the VPD‘s electric vehicle pilot
program which will test the Tesla Model Y’s effectiveness as a patrol vehicle. Throughout the
pilot program, VPD officers will closely monitor the performance, reliability, and cost-
effectiveness of the Model Y in various operational settings. Data collected during this period
will help guide future decisions regarding the integration of electric vehicles into the
Department’s fleet.
To ensure the City obtains competitive pricing, typically, purchases of City fleet vehicles are
facilitated through cooperative buying contracts, pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code (VMC)
Section 3.32.110(A)(5). Accordingly, staff sought a quote for the desired vehicle through
Tesla’s purchasing contract with the North Carolina Sheriff Association (NCSA) (Attachment 1)
and from Tesla directly (Attachment 2). Based on the quotes received, it is most cost-effective
to purchase the vehicle directly from Tesla as there is a 0.75% NCSA usage fee to purchase
via the NCSA contract.
Pursuant to VMC Section 3.32.110(A)(2), the proposed vehicle purchase is exempt from
competitive bidding as Tesla, Inc. is the manufacturer and sells cars directly to end-consumers.
The vehicle would be purchased directly from Tesla, Inc. as Tesla has a “No Reseller Policy”.
Upon approval, VPD will engage with Tesla to proceed with the purchase of available vehicles.
If approved, VPD will return to Council with a vendor recommendation to outfit the vehicle with
necessary equipment.
Per VMC 3.32.030(B), City Council approval is required if, in the twelve (12) months preceding
the effective date of a proposed new, renewed, or otherwise amended contract, the City has
paid or awarded the vendor more than $100,000. Within the past twelve (12) months, the City
has paid or awarded Tesla, Inc. a total of approximately $222,236 in contracts.
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact is not-to-exceed $62,016 including a 10% contingency if needed. Sufficient
funds are available in General Fund, Police Department, Capital Equipment - Auto Account No.
011-030-300-660010.
Attachments
1. Tesla Quote Vernon PD – NCSA
2. Tesla Quote Vernon PD
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Todd Dusenberry, General Manager of Public Utilities
Department:Public Utilities
Submitted by:Adriana Ramos, Senior Management Analyst
Subject
Amendment No. 2 to the License and Software Services Agreement with Power Settlements
Consulting and Software, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of YES Energy LLC
Recommendation
A. Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code Sections 3.32.220 (B) and 3.32.110 (B)(3), find that it is
commercially unreasonable to rebid the contract for settlement software due to the substantial
financial and operational commitment required from the City, as well as the considerable learning
curve associated with frequent changes in selecting licensing and software services from a new
vendor;
B. Approve and Authorize the City Administrator to execute Amendment No. 2 to the License and
Software Service Agreement with Power Settlements Consulting and Software, LLC, a wholly
owned subsidiary of YES Energy LLC, in substantially the same form as submitted, for license
and software services, for a total amount not-to-exceed $303,440, for a three-year term; and
C. Authorize a contingency amount of ten percent (10%) or $30,344 for unforeseen fluctuations
in the Consumer Price Index, and grant authority to the City Administrator to take such actions,
as necessary.
Background
The Vernon Public Utilities (VPU) Finance Division is responsible for the settlement process
between Vernon and the California Independent System Operator (CAISO). Settlements are the
calculation, validation, and invoicing of charges and payments for market and transmission
related activities between market participants and the CAISO. The settlement cycle follows a
specific timeline with deadlines and processes for the publication of statements, payments for
invoices, and dispute submittals.
On January 30, 2019, following a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, City Council
approved a License and Software Services Agreement (Agreement) with Power Settlements
Consulting and Software, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of YES Energy, LLC (Power
Settlements) for the use of the SettleCore System Software to manage CAISO data in the amount
of $326,818 for a three-year term. As part of the Agreement, the City purchased a perpetual
license for the SettleCore Software system in the amount of $95,000 and established annual
support and maintenance services for a three-year term.
On February 15, 2022, Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement with Power Settlements was
approved to remove automatic renewal language and extend the Agreement for three years
through January 31, 2025 at a cost of $262,542.
Power Settlements initiated discussions regarding the continuation of license and software
services for the City, leading to their request for a new amendment. In response, VPU staff is
requesting approval for Amendment No. 2 to the License and Software Services Agreement (LP-
0463) to extend the contract for an additional three years, through January 31, 2028, with a total
amount not-to-exceed $303,440. Additionally, staff recommends a contingency amount of ten
percent (10%) or $30,344, for unforeseen fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index. Pursuant to .
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Section 5.3 of the Agreement, during the renewal term of Amendment No. 2, the annual fee of
$91,670 for 2024 will increase on the anniversary of the term by the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Based on a CPI forecast of 5% annually, the estimated cost for the next three-year period is
summarized below:
Year Amount
2025 $ 96,253.50
2026 $101,066.18
2027 $106,119.48
Total: $303,439.16
Pursuant to Sections 3.32.220(B) and 3.32.110(B)(3) of the VMC, staff recommends the City
Council find that it is commercially unreasonable to rebid a contract for settlement software
every three years due to the substantial financial and operational commitment required from the
City, as well as the considerable learning curve associated with frequent changes in selecting
licensing and software services from a new vendor. The resources allocated to automating,
processing, validating, and creating custom reports for VPU’s compliance with CAISO and
SCPPA requirements, along with the necessary updates to adapt to evolving rules and policies,
represent a significant investment in time, personnel, equipment, and vendor commitment to
provide these essential services to Vernon. Given this considerable financial and workload
investment, VPU anticipates continuing to utilize the SettleCore System Software for managing
CAISO data, State, SCPPA, and internal reporting requirements for the foreseeable future.
Furthermore, the proposed amendment for continued service and maintenance is exempt from
competitive bidding and competitive selection pursuant to VMC 3.32.110(A)(2) and
3.32.110(B)(1), respectively, as the SettleCore system software, including its software license,
and support and maintenance services for the settlement software is only available through
Power Settlements. Power Settlements is the original software manufacturer and, as such, the
unique proprietary software design and licensing agent. Extending the annual support and
maintenance services will ensure that the software’s functionality remains aligned with the
CAISO’s and VPU’s settlement process, future CAISO system updates, and custom reports that
were developed exclusively for VPU. Furthermore, this extension will maintain the continuity of
service, ensure that the settlement process, including invoicing, will be completed timely to avoid
CAISO penalties, meet SCPPA invoicing deadlines, and guarantee that the maintenance and
software support continues without interruption. Pursuant to VMC Section 3.32.030(A), City
Council approval is required as the total value of the proposed amendment requested exceeds
$100,000.
The proposed Amendment No. 2 has been reviewed and approved as to form by the City
Attorney’s Office.
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact of Amendment No. 2 is not-to-exceed $333,784. Sufficient funds are available
in the Electric Fund, Resource Management, Professional Services-Other Account No. 055-050-
590-529215 for the current fiscal year and sufficient funds will be budgeted in the subsequent
years.
Attachments
1. Amendment No. 2 with Power Settlements Consulting and Software, LLC, a wholly owned
subsidiary of YES Energy, LLC.
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Todd Dusenberry, General Manager of Public Utilities
Department:Public Utilities
Submitted by:Adriana Ramos, Senior Management Analyst
Subject
Renewable Portfolio Standard Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program
Recommendation
A. Approve and adopt the updated Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) Procurement Plan and
Enforcement Program; and
B. Repeal Resolution No. 2012-02.
Background
Vernon Public Utilities (VPU) is tasked with implementing and enforcing the Renewable Portfolio
Standard (RPS), a regulatory mandate aimed at increasing energy production from renewable
sources. This initiative aligns with the Legislature's intention to promote the use of renewable
resources while considering the impacts on rates, reliability, financial resources, and
environmental improvement.
On April 12, 2011, Governor Brown signed the California Renewable Energy Resources Act
(Senate Bill 2 of the First Extraordinary Session, also known as SBX1 2) into law. This legislation
required all load-serving entities in California to achieve a 33% Renewable Portfolio Standard by
2020, with interim targets of 20% on average for 2011-2013, 25% by 2016, and 33% by 2020.
Furthermore, SBX1 2 mandates that Publicly Owned Utilities (POUs) develop a procurement
plan and establish an enforcement program.
In 2015, Senate Bill 350 (SB 350) introduced specific greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
reduction targets, aiming for a 40% decrease from 1990 levels by 2030 and an 80% reduction by
2050. SB 350 also raised RPS compliance requirements to 50% by 2030, with interim targets of
40% by 2024 and 45% by 2027. Starting with Compliance Period 4, January 1, 2021 to December
31, 2024, the California Energy Commission (CEC) implemented a new requirement for POUs,
stipulating that at least 65% of renewable procurement must come from contracts lasting ten
years or more.
In 2018, Senate Bill 100 (SB 100) accelerated the RPS targets established by SB 350. It ensures
that at least 60% of California's electricity comes from renewable sources by 2030 and that this
60% renewable generation level must be maintained at or above that threshold from 2030
onward. SB 100 also mandates that renewable energy and zero-carbon resources will provide
100% of the retail electricity sold in California by 2045.
In 2022, Senate Bill 1020 (SB 1020) further revised state energy policy by requiring eligible
renewable and zero-carbon resources supply:
- 90% of all retail electricity sales to California end-use customers by December 31, 2035,
- 95% by December 31, 2040, and
- 100% by December 31, 2045.
The City of Vernon has been actively working to meet legislative requirements regarding
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renewable resources. On January 3, 2012, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2012-02,
which established a Renewable Resources Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program in
compliance with SBX1 2. The 2012 plan addressed Compliance Periods 1, 2, and 3, all of which
Vernon successfully completed.
On October 17, 2023, the City Council adopted the 2023 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The
IRP is a 20-year strategy for delivering reliable and cost-effective electricity. The plan ensures
compliance with regulatory requirements, focuses on clean energy generation, and addresses
distribution system infrastructure and constraints, as updated by SB 350 and SB 100.
VPU has procured eligible renewable resources to achieve the mandated 40% RPS target for
2024, as required by SB 350. The City has secured enough renewable resources to meet its
compliance targets for Period 4. Additionally, the City is pursuing more renewable energy
contracts for the period from 2025 to 2030 to comply with the goals set forth in SB 100. Staff is
confident that they will secure sufficient renewable resources to meet all future targets.
The updated RPS Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program outlines VPU’s renewable
resource activities from the past year and includes planned and potential procurement activities
for the future to ensure compliance with the RPS Program.
Staff recommends adopting the updated RPS Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program to
align with California State law renewable mandates and repealing Resolution No. 2012-02.
The proposed RPS Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program has been reviewed and
approved as to form by the City Attorney’s Office.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact by adopting the RPS Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program.
Sufficient funds to implement the RPS Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program are
budgeted in the FY 2024-2025 Electric Fund, Resource Management Division and will be
budgeted in subsequent years.
Attachments
1. Renewable Portfolio Standard Procurement Plan and Enforcement Program
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:February 18, 2025
From:Daniel Calleros, Interim City Administrator
Department:City Administration
Submitted by:Angela Kimmey, Deputy City Administrator
Subject
City of Vernon 2025-2026 Legislative and Regulatory Platform
Recommendation
Approve and adopt the City of Vernon 2025-2026 Legislative and Regulatory Platform
Background
A Legislative and Regulatory Platform is a summary of policy statements that provide a
framework for a City’s response to state and federal legislation and regulation. The City of Vernon
2025-2026 Legislative and Regulatory Platform (Platform) (Attachment 1) was introduced to the
City Council at the February 4, 2025 Regular Council Meeting. As outlined in the February 4
Agenda Report (Attachment 2), the Platform asserts the City’s position on priority issues and
matters that impact the City’s ability to operate effectively, while allowing the consideration of
additional legislative and budget issues that arise during the legislative session. On February 4,
Council also received a presentation from the City’s legislative advocacy consultant, the
California Public Policy Group, that included highlights of the proposed Platform statements
(Attachment 3). The Council did not indicate any changes were necessary to the Platform as
proposed and directed staff to place the Platform on the February 18, 2025 Regular Council
Meeting agenda for adoption.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments
1. City of Vernon 2025-2026 Legislative and Regulatory Platform
2. February 4, 2025 Legislative Platform Agenda Report
3. February 4, 2025 CPPG Presentation on Legislative Platform
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