Development News for La Habra, California

Water and Sewer Divisions Complete Major Infrastructure Projects, Including Water Main Replacements and Sewer Repairs

The Public Works Department's water and sewer division completed significant work, including the construction of new water mains on Euclid Street and Mount Wood Avenue, replacement of 1376 water meters, and installation of pressure transmitters. They also advanced the design of the Hacienda Pump Station and Constantine Facilitation Project and completed multiple water main grades. Annual sewer lateral repairs and sewer lining programs were also completed, along with ongoing citywide sewer pipeline cleanup and repairs. [cite: 688-697]

First Graduating Class of 'La Habra 101' Civic Engagement Program Recognized

The La Habra 101 program, a civic engagement initiative, celebrated its first graduating class. The program aimed to increase resident engagement and understanding of city operations. Thirty participants were initially registered, with 28 attending the class. City officials, including the Mayor and council members, recognized the graduates for their commitment and encouraged them to serve as ambassadors for the city. The program's success was highlighted as a positive indicator for La Habra's future engagement and the relationship between residents and city government. [cite: 25-89, 1248-1259]

Administration and Support Departments Seek $20 Million Budget, Highlighting Internal Service Functions and Technology Upgrades

The Administration and Support departments, including City Clerk, Finance, HR, Treasury, and IT, presented their proposed budget. These departments function as internal service providers, with much of their funding allocated to support other city departments. The total request for Administration and Support is $20 million, with $5.27 million from the General Fund and $14.77 million from other sources. Key accomplishments include the release of a quarterly newsletter, the successful hosting of the centennial celebration, upgrades to the city website for ADA compliance, and obtaining $1.9 million in earmark funding for a watermelon project. The City Clerk's office processed over 900 public records requests and managed recruitment for commission vacancies. Human Resources implemented a new payroll and HR management system and processed 287 benefit changes. The Finance department performs financial projections and license scenarios for labor negotiations and monitors departmental compliance with purchasing policies. Information Technology upgraded the city's server area network and completed voice over IP network updates. [cite: 752-874]

Planning Division Focuses on General Plan Updates, Special Event Permits, and Cannabis Business Regulation

The Planning Division is responsible for preparing amendments to the general plan, zoning code, and specific plans. This year, they codified procedures for special event permits, presented 15 projects to the Planning Commission, and continued working on updated specific plan goals. They also reported to the state on the city's progress towards implementing its general plan and reviewed projects for consistency with the general plan and zoning code. Three development agreement terminations related to cannabis operations were presented to the council, leaving only one wholesale distribution and one delivery business operational or in plan check within the city. The division has upgraded the city's land management system and prepared amendments to streamline permitting for non-residential uses and regulate tobacco retailers. [cite: 599-609]