City Council formalizes long-awaited Bailey Canyon use agreement with funding provisions

During the Sierra Madre City Council meeting on July 8, 2025, a significant discussion centered around a long-awaited agreement with Los Angeles County regarding Bailey Canyon. This agreement formalizes the city’s responsibilities for improvements and maintenance at the site, which had previously operated without a formal contract.

Council members expressed concerns about the financial implications of the agreement, particularly regarding the timeline for completing necessary improvements. The city is required to complete various enhancements, including resurfacing the parking lot and upgrading bathroom facilities, within five years. The estimated cost for resurfacing the parking lot is between $50,000 and $60,000, which will be funded through the city’s regular street project budget, amounting to about $1 million annually over the next five years.

City staff reassured council members that while the bathroom is currently in acceptable condition, it may not require immediate repairs. However, the open-ended nature of the improvements raised questions about the city’s ability to meet its obligations without incurring additional costs. Council members sought clarity on the scope of landscape maintenance responsibilities that would fall under the city’s purview as part of the agreement.

The contract itself spans 25 years, allowing for flexibility in addressing future community needs as they arise. City officials noted that this agreement could facilitate access to external funding for additional projects, such as new fencing or irrigation, which would enhance the area further.

As the council moves forward with this agreement, the focus remains on ensuring that the city can fulfill its commitments while addressing the community's needs effectively. The discussions highlight the importance of careful planning and financial management in maintaining public spaces that serve the residents of Sierra Madre.