City of Calabasas

This document presents the Calabasas Fiscal Outlook, outlining the city's financial challenges, including structural operating deficits, declining reserves, and unfunded capital obligations. It proposes considering a local sales tax measure to generate approximately $5.3 million annually. The primary objective is to maintain local control over sales tax revenue, preventing Los Angeles County from claiming the remaining tax capacity, and to ensure funds are utilized for city services and financial stability.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Troop 1586, followed by the approval of the agenda. The City Attorney reported on discussions held in closed session regarding potential litigation, noting that no reportable action was taken on one item, and subsequent closed sessions were scheduled. Key agenda items included the presentation and confirmation of Stephanie Adams to the Library Commission for a three-year term. Council members provided announcements concerning well-wishes for recent holidays, recognizing the Valley Economic Alliance gala, promoting the Senior Center volunteer appreciation event, acknowledging presentations made to the Southern California Association of Governments regarding home hardening, promoting the upcoming annual Law Day event offering free legal consultations, and recognizing Yom Hashoah and the anniversary of the Armenian genocide. The council approved the consent calendar. A public hearing concerning the business registration program was continued to a date uncertain following outreach efforts with the business community. The council then addressed the designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones, wherein the entire city was confirmed to be in the Very High Fire Severity Zone as designated by the State Fire Marshal, necessitating adherence to the highest fire code standards for new construction and remodeling.

The main purpose of this event was to announce that the City of Calabasas will serve as an official host city for the Special Olympics World Games LA 2015. The Mayor welcomed attendees and acknowledged various partners, including the Chamber of Commerce and the MRCA. Speeches highlighted the history and scale of the Special Olympics, emphasizing the positive impact on athletes and communities through sports, courage, determination, and joy. The Global Messenger, Allen Wells, shared his personal experience and enthusiasm for the upcoming games. The event concluded with the presentation of a proclamation declaring July 21st to July 24th, 2015, as Calabasas Host Town Days, and a Key to the City was presented to the Special Olympics representatives.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Girl Scout Troop 1776. Discussions following the close session report included council member announcements regarding the passing of Council Member Shapiro's mother, the recent Arbor Day event featuring the planting of coastal live oaks, a demonstration of the Ocean Well desalination project, upcoming Earth Day activities, and recognition for Women's History Month. Council Member Winrob announced the debut of the second season of the Explore Calabasas hiking program. The Mayor announced upcoming Men's Pro Tennis Championships. During public comments, residents addressed topics including the need for library hour extensions, concerns regarding the operation of the Calabasas Community Center, and significant issues concerning heavy truck traffic, debris, and safety hazards on Lost Hills Road due to alleged truck route violations. Under the consent calendar, Item 8 involved a discussion regarding the donation of a vacant parcel of land to the city. Item 10 involved questions about funding requirements for rental assistance programs, with the city's CDBG consultant clarifying the need to follow guidelines concerning income limits and documentation. The session concluded with moving into New Business to address the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report.

The key discussion points revolved around updates provided by student commissioners, including the initiation of a composting program at Calabasas High School, involvement in the Future Blue Youth Council, and an article written about recent wildfires. Student representatives also shared updates on winning art awards and being named a finalist for the American Climate Leadership Awards. Another student group detailed their P22 Wildlife Awareness organization, which focuses on educating younger generations about P22 and wildlife conservation, including collaboration with biologists regarding the Annenberg Wildlife Crossing. Furthermore, updates were given on the "Bags for Benches" recycling program, noting they reached the goal for a new bench at the high school and are starting the second phase. A significant portion of the meeting involved public comment expressing grave concern over the Calabasas landfill accepting fire debris from the recent wildfires, citing potential asbestos contamination and inadequate containment measures, with several references made to the health ramifications seen after 9/11. Commission announcements included preparations for an upcoming environmental forum regarding the wildlife crossing and wildfires, the Arbor Day tree planting celebration, and the Earth Day celebration/Green Expo.