Alhambra · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Alhambra public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
City Manager Performance Evaluation
The City Council is reviewing the performance of the City Manager in a closed session. This evaluation affects city leadership, administrative direction, and municipal operations.
Environmental Sustainability
The city won a platinum-level Energy Champion award from the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments for 2024-2025, crediting its 100% renewable electricity default and sustainability plan. An implementation plan is expected soon.
Historic preservation program fees deter applications
A year after the preservation ordinance passed, only one application has been filed and it's incomplete. Residents say fees of $5,000-$10,000 for designation and Mills Act applications are far higher than neighboring cities and are killing participation. The council directed staff to bring back fixes early next year.
Municipal Appropriation Limit
The city is reviewing its financial reserve policies to ensure strong emergency funds and tackle long-term pension and benefit liabilities. These updates aim to safeguard Alhambra's economic stability against unexpected expenses and economic downturns.
Financial Reserve Policy and Pension Liability Strategy
The city is reviewing its financial reserve policies to ensure strong emergency funds and tackle long-term pension and benefit liabilities. These updates aim to safeguard Alhambra's economic stability against unexpected expenses and economic downturns.
Midwick/Alhambra Hills Parking
Student spillover parking from CSULA — and now LA Football Club games — has frustrated this neighborhood for years. The council shrunk the district's southern boundary and added weekend enforcement after surveying 376 households.
Citywide Transportation and Public Works Project Updates
Several street items moved forward: an added alley segment for the Area B rehab, formal completion of a $2.5 million resurfacing job, and the start of next year's SB1-funded street rehab.
Traffic Safety Enhancements on Hellman Avenue
Residents along Hellman Avenue requested studies on traffic conditions and potential safety controls between Cambell Avenue and Atlantic Boulevard.
Noise Ordinance Review
Councilmember Lee wants the city to consider lowering the allowable noise level for mixed-use buildings from 60 decibels, responding to residents who live above businesses. Staff will bring a broader report on the noise ordinance to a future meeting.
State Funding for Community Center & EOC
The city's $4 million federal loan application for the Community Center needs an environmental assessment, so the council added $6,000 to its HUD consulting contract.
El Niño Emergency Preparation
With a historic El Niño forecast, the city declared a local emergency so staff can quickly buy supplies, make repairs, and get reimbursed by the state if storms hit.
Existing Litigation Review
The city council met privately to discuss ongoing legal cases and potential lawsuits involving the city. These closed sessions help city leaders navigate legal risks without tipping their hand to opponents.
Strategic Planning and Goal Setting
Alhambra transitioned its mayoral leadership, celebrating past sustainability and infrastructure wins while charting a course for affordable housing, small businesses, and community inclusion.
Fire and police equipment purchases
The council bought up to $340,000 in protective gear, rescue tools, and breathing apparatus for firefighters and police by piggybacking on cooperative contracts.
Measure A homeless services funding
The county's half-cent homelessness sales tax sends Alhambra about $197,000 this year, keeping the HOME Team outreach and LA CADA support services going.
City Council Election
Eric Sunada is officially running for Alhambra City Council, adding a new name to the ballot. It’s time to start paying attention to his platform to see if his vision for the city aligns with your priorities.
Almansor Park Security
The city is applying for a federal grant to help pay for safety gear for our police officers. This ensures they have the equipment they need to stay safe on the job.
2026-2027 Annual Action Plan Preparation
The city is working on its Annual Action Plan to determine how federal HUD funds like CDBG and HOME will be spent next year. Residents and advisors are helping shape funding priorities for local services and housing programs.
Labor Negotiations
The city is currently negotiating contracts with police and fire management associations. These discussions impact city staffing, public safety budgets, and employee compensation.
2025 Sidewalk Improvement Project Action Plan Amendment
The committee is scheduled to consider adding the 2025 Sidewalk Improvement Project as an eligible activity under the 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan, which would send the proposal to the City Council.
Mayoral Appointment
Alhambra just swore in its youngest mayor ever, who is also the city's first openly bisexual leader. This historic shift in leadership could mean a major shake-up for how City Hall handles local priorities moving forward.