Development News for La Verne, California

City Council Approves E-bike Regulations Amidst Safety Concerns

The City Council approved an ordinance regulating mobility devices and e-bikes, with one dissenting vote. Councilmember Johnson opposed e-bikes on sidewalks, citing safety concerns for pedestrians. Public comments highlighted incidents involving e-bikes on sidewalks, including a juvenile's broken arm from a crash at an estimated 30 mph. Concerns were raised about the speed and weight of e-bikes, the potential danger to children and pedestrians, and the difficulty in distinguishing between e-bike classes. Police Chief provided clarification: Class 1 and 2 e-bikes (up to 20 mph, pedal-assist) are allowed on sidewalks, while Class 3 e-bikes (up to 28 mph) are prohibited from sidewalks and require riders to be 16+. There are no age limits for Class 1 & 2, but helmets are required under 18. E-motorcycles require licenses and registration. Data shows almost all bicycle-vehicle accidents occur on roads. Enforcement will include administrative citations ($100-$500 fines) and the option for an e-bike operation course.

Council Discusses FY 2026-2027 Budget Deficit, Considers Staff Reductions and Event Modifications

The City Council received an update on the fiscal year 2026-2027 draft budget, following up on a previous study session regarding a $233,628 deficit. Staff presented potential reductions, including the elimination of one part-time administrative support position (currently vacant) and another filled position, which could lead to slower response times, processing delays, and reduced administrative support capacity. The report also detailed costs and city subsidies for Parks and Recreation special events, exploring options like increasing sponsorship opportunities, raising per-person costs, or collaborating with external partners to reduce net costs. Modifications to events like Winter Wonderland were also discussed. Additional proposed adjustments include reducing cleaning services at Veterans Hall by potentially decreasing frequency and seeking contributions from user groups like the VFW and youth sports organizations. Training budget reductions were also discussed, with departments providing details on adjustments to meet minimum requirements. Council was asked for direction on whether to utilize reserves or implement operational reductions, with a balanced budget to be presented on June 15th.

Council Considers Ballot Measure to Address Funding Gap for Paramedic Services

The City Council discussed a potential ballot measure related to Measure GG, which provides dedicated funding for paramedic services. While Measure GG has evolved since its 1980 approval, current funding ($1.06 million from Measure GG + $1.7 million from EMS billing) falls short of the estimated $3.8 million annual cost, leaving a $1.04 million gap, with 27% of EMS costs supported by the general fund. Medical care costs have risen faster than general inflation. The Fire Department has improved cardiac arrest survival rates to 33.3% (from below county/state levels) and survival to hospital discharge has increased. Staff proposed potential assessment increases from the current $6.90/month, suggesting $12.50-$15.00 could generate $1.92-$2.3 million annually. Council was asked for direction on developing a ballot measure, with staff to return with detailed financial analysis and potential escalation mechanisms.

Oldtown Leverne BID Annual Report and Assessment Affirmed, Car Show Funding Realigned

The Oldtown Leverne Business Improvement District (BID) annual report and assessment were affirmed by the City Council. The BID boundaries and assessment formula remain unchanged since 1986. Businesses within the district pay an assessment fee to fund BID activities, including special programming. The advisory board recommended not funding the 2027 Cool Cruise car show, instead allocating funds to physical improvements. Potential grant funding is being explored to support future car shows. The association has been active, holding successful events like the Winewalk and planning for the return of Beer Walks and the Holiday Stroll.