A Sierra Madre Council meeting (File Photo – W.K.)
The Sierra Madre City Council met Monday, June 8, in the Council Chambers with an agenda that ranged from multifamily housing design standards to replica city flags.
By Shashank Tongaonkar
The evening’s major public hearing was the introduction of Ordinance No. 1495, which would adopt design standards for multifamily and mixed-use projects. The goal is to create housing that complies with state law while giving residents a voice in the design of new developments. The Planning Commission recommended adoption of the ordinance.
On the consent calendar, the council considered three resolutions calling a General Election on Nov. 3, 2026, when three council seats will be up for four-year terms. The election would be consolidated with Los Angeles County and is expected to cost approximately $65,000.
Also on the consent calendar was a $10,039 appropriation of Transportation Development Act funds for downtown bicycle infrastructure. Plans include new bike racks, two of which would feature built-in e-bike charging stations, as well as a public bicycle repair station at Kersting Court. The total purchase cost is $10,871.45, with the remaining $832.45 to be absorbed by the Public Works operating budget. The bike rack resolution was sent back for revision.
One notable discussion item involved a request from the Sierra Madre Events Committee for permission to reproduce and sell replica city flags. Proceeds from the sales would support community events such as Fourth of July celebrations, Movies in the Park, and Signs of the Seasons. The committee said flag designer Hugh Van Delden has approved the proposal. All discussion items were approved.
The council also considered Resolution No. 26-42, the first step toward levying next year’s Downtown Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance Assessment. A public hearing on the matter is expected June 23.
In addition, the council reviewed Resolution No. 26-50, which would end the city’s 2021 suspension of Public Facilities Fees on accessory dwelling units (ADUs). State law limits such fees to ADUs larger than 750 square feet. The proposed fee structure would add a local incentive by providing a 75% discount on the first ADU built on a lot and a 25% discount on the second, with no discount for additional units. The fees would apply only to applications filed on or after July 1, 2026.
The council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for June 23.
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