Development News for West Covina, California

West Covina Approves 2026 CDBG Action Plan with $850,000 Budget

The City Council approved the Program Year 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan. The plan guides the use of $850,000 in anticipated CDBG funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Funds will be allocated to various activities including administration, public services, and a residential street rehabilitation project. Staff recommended prioritizing city-administered projects and the Housing Rights Center to maintain current service levels and meet HUD requirements. The plan was developed following public hearings and a 30-day review period, with no public comments received.

West Covina Mandates Spay/Neuter and Microchipping for Dogs and Cats

The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2539, requiring mandatory spaying and neutering and microchipping for dogs and cats. This ordinance amends Chapter 6 of the West Covina Municipal Code to adopt relevant provisions of the Los Angeles County Code. The decision followed extensive public comment, with speakers sharing emotional stories about animal overpopulation and shelter overcrowding, while others raised concerns about the affordability of mandatory procedures and the lack of support programs for low-income residents. The council voted 4-1 to adopt the ordinance, with one council member abstaining. The ordinance is set to become effective July 1, 2026, aligning with the city's contract with the LA County Department of Animal Care and Control. A motion was also approved to establish a line item for donations to support low-income residents with these costs and to ensure sufficient resources and education are provided before enforcement begins.

West Covina Amends Municipal Code for Housing, Conversions, and Application Processing

The City Council introduced Ordinance No. 2540, which amends Chapter 26 of the West Covina Municipal Code to establish development standards for supportive and transitional housing, update land use regulations for hotel and motel conversions, and create procedures for withdrawing inactive or incomplete planning applications. The ordinance requires a conditional use permit for hotel and motel conversions in the regional mixed-use zone. It also establishes a 180-day timeline for resubmitting incomplete applications, with a possible 90-day extension. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the ordinance.

West Covina Adopts Policy for Remote Meeting Participation and Disruptions

The City Council adopted a policy regarding disruptions during telephonic or internet service for public participation in meetings, as required by Senate Bill 707. The policy allows for a warning to disruptive participants, with a second disruption leading to termination of audio/visual access. It also outlines procedures for technical disruptions, including a one-hour recess and subsequent council vote on whether to continue the meeting. The policy permits remote participation via audio or video, and council members can appear remotely for ADA accommodations without disclosing their location. The policy aims to balance remote access with maintaining orderly meetings.