A modern example of an old concept on Mountain View Ave in Monrovia (Photo – mohpg.org)
At its July 1 meeting, the Monrovia City Council made significant decisions on various important issues, including updating hillside fire hazard zones, revising city park rules, and establishing a framework for affordable housing development.
By Shashank Tongaonkar
The Council also approved key technology and infrastructure upgrades for services across the city.
Council Updates Fire Hazard Zones in Response to Statewide Standards
In a pivotal public hearing, the Council adopted an ordinance updating Monrovia’s Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map to align with California’s March 2025 recommendations. The update addresses increased wildfire risks due to drought and changing climate conditions, particularly in hillside neighborhoods. This change will support future fire mitigation efforts and help with insurance planning citywide.
Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fee Adopted
Building on the inclusionary housing ordinance passed last month, the Council approved a resolution to establish Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fees for developers. This fee structure allows residential developers to contribute to a housing fund when they choose not to build affordable units onsite, thus helping to fund future city-led affordable housing initiatives.
Major Technology and Public Safety Upgrades
- GIS & Dispatch System Modernization
The Council approved a $90,900 contract with Motorola Solutions to upgrade software for the city’s Flex Dispatch and Records Management systems, including integration with ArcGIS Pro. - OnBase Document Management Overhaul
The Council ratified a $50,750 agreement with Konica Minolta to support the digitization of documents and records retention. - Janitorial Services Extended
A $475,557 contract with CCS Facility Services was extended through 2026 to continue cleaning services at all city facilities. - $221K in Emergency Repairs Ratified
The Council formally approved emergency work to address storm damage and infrastructure repairs.
Monrovia ACTV (Active Community Travel Vinculum) Project Moves Forward
The Council authorized $298,165 for Willdan Engineering, with a $59,600 contingency, for engineering and design services related to the ACTV Phase 1 Project. This initiative is part of the city’s long-term plan to improve walkability, bike paths, and safe mobility routes throughout Monrovia.
Monrovia Today Publication Extended
The Council renewed its agreement with Jovenville, LLC (We The Creative) for the continued production of the city’s flagship newsletter, Monrovia Today. The new contract provides up to $180,000 through 2028, covering design, printing, and publication of four issues annually, with additional design services available on a per-project basis.
Other Items of Note
- Monrovia Historic Preservation Group (MOHPG) made a brief presentation endorsing Bungalow Courts as a viable land use.
- The August 5 and August 19 meetings were canceled, with one to be rescheduled as a special meeting.
- Several finance-related contracts were approved, including updates to assessment district administration, parcel tax management, and special tax resolutions for FY 2025–2026.
- The Council recognized outgoing Library Boardmember Mark Harvis and Planning Commissioner Bill Shieff for their years of service.
- July was officially proclaimed “Parks Make Life Better Month.”
- KGEM-TV won at this year’s Hometown Media Awards, with its submission recognizing Gloria Crudgington being chosen from nearly a thousand videos.
KGEM’s ‘Gloria Crudgington’s Recognition’ video won at this year’s Hometown Media Awards (Photo – KGEM-TV)
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