Council adopts plan for $59,253 in CDBG funds; majority set aside for ADA curb ramps

The San Marino City Council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution R-26-01, approving the city's proposed use of an estimated $59,253 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for fiscal year 2026-27.

In a staff presentation, Director Shaw said staff recommends allocating $8,887 (within the 15% federal public-service cap) to the community services department's senior outreach program and setting aside $50,366 in the city's CDBG revolving fund to accumulate toward an ADA-compliant sidewalk curb ramp replacement project. "For fiscal year 26-27, the city's estimated allocation is $59,253," Director Shaw said, explaining the recommended split and noting that new federal requirements could require staff to return to council to reappropriate funds if needed for compliance.

Councilmembers asked about expiration dates and monitoring of older funds; Director Shaw said staff coordinates with the county and monitors expirations, and that some rollover funds from recently completed projects will be combined with the new allocation to support larger accessibility work.

A public commenter, Brian Gelt (940 Derby), asked whether the city could issue an RFP for ongoing street maintenance; staff declined to engage in on-the-spot dialogue but offered to follow up after the meeting.

The council adopted Resolution R-26-01 by roll call (yes votes: Council Chang, Council Chow, Councilmember Sheper Rommy, Vice Mayor Low and Mayor Cho). The resolution directs use of the allocation as presented; staff flagged that federal program changes may require further adjustments later.