Alternative Pledge of Allegiance
Judith Kaluzny: I am here to propose an alternative pledge.
I pledge allegiance to the Constitution of the United States of America and to the Republic, which it describes: One nation of laws, indivisible. Aspiring to liberty and justice for all.
I propose this alternative pledge because the current Pledge of Allegiance seems to imply that God approves of our actions, such as the bombings in the Caribbean Sea. We have a Coast Guard that could handle these situations legally. Moreover, these bombings are not truly focused on drugs, as evidenced by the president pardoning a major drug dealer, Orlando Hernandez, who brought 40 tons of cocaine into our country and openly stated his intent to distribute it.
This situation raises serious concerns, especially with the unjust targeting and deportation of individuals without due process. Now, it has been mandated that the Attorney General target dissenters within the U.S. These actions, done in our name, are a far cry from the ideals of liberty and justice for all.
As Albert Camus commented on France’s treatment of Algerians, “I wish I could love justice and still love my country.” I propose this alternative pledge to remind ourselves of the need to restore liberty and justice for everyone.
Help Fullertonians Impacted by ICE raids
Mike Rowe: Since 1992, my family has resided in District 5 in Fullerton. I would like to publicly thank every one of our City Council members for the vital public service you provide and for being good stewards of our tax dollars. I appreciate your participation in the often challenging conversations and decisions that you face.
I was disappointed when the agenda item regarding the funds to assist families impacted legally and financially by ICE raids was tabled. However, I understand the financial constraints that many of you expressed.
I have an alternative proposal. I recommend that the city approve two smaller sets of seed funds sponsored by the City of Fullerton. These funds would allow private citizens and civic-minded businesses in the city to make donations while receiving tax benefits for their contributions. The city could administer these funds for the benefit of families directly affected by ICE actions.
If there are remaining funds after meeting the needs of these families, I propose that they be allocated to ongoing projects within the city that address homelessness and other urgent issues we all face. This approach would foster a more cooperative, civic-minded community of neighbors.
It distresses me to see how profoundly many of my neighbors have been affected, and I would like to see all of us take action. This proposal would give people the option to participate in a way that feels right for them. Thank you for considering my proposal.
Harry Langenbacher: I live in Fullerton, and I want to repeat my request that you, the City Council, address the impact of ICE raids in our community. This is in line with an item you previously voted to table. I’ve been trying to understand and define the role of the City Council. I know it goes back over 100 years, but I believe it is to look out for the welfare of all residents in our community. Just as we care for the homeless, senior citizens, and people with disabilities, we must also consider those affected by ICE raids.
While I know these raids have lessened recently—I’ve not heard of any occurring at our Home Depot or car washes—they are still happening throughout Orange County, and this issue is far from over. Some of you have expressed sympathy for the victims of ICE as individuals, but I request that you take action as a City Council for the benefit of all our residents. Please do something—anything—to address this ongoing problem.
I appreciate the earlier comments about the city using seed money to establish a way for community members to help. However, in all my reading about the city’s responsibilities, I have not found anything stating that it is the duty of churches to take care of individuals that the city does not want to support. Again, I assert that it is the city’s responsibility to care for all of its residents.
CalPERS fiasco
Zoom Caller: Fullerton should be ashamed of our HR department for allowing this CalPERS fiasco to occur. This situation was entirely preventable and foreseeable. Let’s start with Mr. Manfro, who had to resign in disgrace from Westminster due to his attempts to cover up discrimination and other scandals. After leaving Westminster, he was forced to exit the public sector because of his misconduct. Why was he ever hired by Fullerton in the first place? He is now on his fourth job in Fullerton: HR consultant, Interim HR Director, HR Director, and now what? City Manager of Durham? The city manager position still hasn’t been posted, even though other city executive positions were posted faster. Is he going to receive yet another questionable appointment?
Given this CalPERS case and Mr. Manfro’s past misconduct, there must be an independent audit of the city’s hiring practices and any claims of discrimination that he may have concealed. Mr. Manfro was not the only one in HR with a questionable record. The HR department was involved in approving these hires, including Mr. Manfro.
I have reviewed the city’s public payments and know that the city has contracts with outside attorneys. The Dick Jones team has connections back to Westminster with Mr. Manfro, and they cannot be trusted either. This CalPERS situation needs to be resolved, but it is clear that it cannot be fixed without serious reforms and changes in HR.
We need to investigate the hirings, scrutinize who knew what and when, and look into any discrimination or other issues that HR may be hiding. We must also make sure that Mr. Manfro does not receive a fifth position as the full-time city manager.
Disappointed Constituant
Karen Lloreda: Councilwoman Valencia, like the mayor, sometimes I find it hard to contain myself. However, the key difference is that I am not making unilateral decisions about taxpayer dollars. Instead, I focus on highlighting the flaws of those who are elected to be responsible stewards of that money.
Am I wrong to assume that Fred advised you on whom to appoint to the Sustainability Committee? Is your goal to cultivate more independent thinking in the coming year?
Mayor Jung, do you ever review the quarterly attendance reports? Some committees show strong attendance and a commitment to doing their jobs well, while others do not. For example, take the Investment Advisory Committee. The quarterly report in your consent calendar indicates that there were either three or four meetings scheduled for the quarter, though it’s unclear which it was. Nonetheless, three members of that committee—David Golumbic, Ted T. Kim, and Yoon Jae Park—attended none of those meetings.
Whoever made those appointments should seriously consider replacing them. This is not a position meant for offering favors or flattering friends or donors. Once again, Mayor, you are unfit for service.
Road Safety for Orangethorpe Elementary Students in District 4
ZJ Hahn: Dedicated Fullerton staff, I come tonight with love and support for each of you. May that love spread among all of you. Nick, I want to personally thank you for stepping up and addressing the patio issue. However, I sent you an email, and I did not receive a response. I’m not sure if you received my emails or where they go when I hit send. This time, I copied four other people on the email, and at least one of them was able to respond, so I know it reached someone.
Jamie Valencia, I continue to volunteer to work with you to ensure safer sidewalks and curbs on the 1800 and 1900 blocks of West Page Avenue. We have children who walk to and from Orangethorpe Elementary School five days a week, ranging in age from 5 to about 12 years old. At the end of our meeting two weeks ago on December 2, I saw the proposal for safer bicycle transportation. I believe we can address both issues simultaneously.
As a start, we could use a 12-inch white line along the side of the curb before sidewalks are put in. This line would delineate a path for students and their parents, separating their walking route from that of automobiles.
I want to thank the Chief of Police, Jonathan Radus. I don’t know whose idea it was, but there was a trailer up for over three weeks warning people about their speed. I believe this contributes to the safety of our children. I’ve previously mentioned that I hope this is followed up by an officer at the corner of Courtney and Roberta, who could use a radar gun to ticket speeders. As you know, from Roberta Street towards the 91 Freeway, many apartment dwellers tend to be younger and drive at higher speeds.
Union Pacific Trail Grand Opening
Local Speaker: Tonight, I will address several topics during my public comments. On Saturday, I attended a wonderful and significant event for South Fullerton and our entire city: the celebration of the opening of Phase Two of the Union Pacific Trail. It took years for the community to persuade the Fullerton City Council to approve this trail. It represents both a social justice issue and an environmental justice issue, as it is located in a densely populated industrial area with little to no access to parks or trails. The trail’s completion was only possible because the community persevered in their efforts. This accomplishment deserves significant recognition and gratitude for everyone who stood firm in their commitment.
People from all over the city gathered with their families to ride bikes, walk their dogs, and enjoy this beautiful trail for the first time. The turnout was tremendous, and the event was a joyful celebration.
Next, studies have shown that school attendance has declined across the U.S., including in Los Angeles and Orange counties, largely due to the effects of the illegal Ice Age. It is particularly disturbing to learn that students are being bullied by their peers because of their immigration status. In light of this, I urge you once again to reconsider your decision and approve a needs fund and a legal fund to assist those affected. This remains an urgent situation for many in our community.
Although he is not here, I want to express my gratitude to Council Member Zahra for his thoughtful questions and efforts aimed at improving conditions for individuals experiencing homelessness. I ask that you agendize an opportunity to address gaps, such as the lack of assistance available at night or on weekends.
Councilman Dunlap, you mentioned that discussing these issues is a waste of time and that we need to move on to city business. I would argue that addressing the needs of unhoused individuals is important and necessary city business.
Additionally, I request that the City Council immediately agendize the opening of a cold weather shelter. This is long overdue and urgently needed for those unhoused individuals who are facing the cold on our streets.
Lastly, I would like to note that the active transportation meeting was canceled once again this month, despite the numerous issues that need to be addressed. I would like to know the reason for its cancellation.
Eglith Nuncci: I come here with a lot of gratitude to thank so many people who made the Union Pacific Trail possible. I also want to advocate for Union Pacific Trail Phase Three, which will extend from Independence Park to the Hunt Library. Later, we will advocate for the trail to continue to Buena Park and then to La Habra. This will be an important connection within our city.
When you have a vision and the support of the community, we can make this happen. Thank you so much to everyone who played a role in this project. I wish I had the time to mention all of our wonderful resident leaders, including Veronica Moran from the Center for Healthy Neighborhoods, Armando Chavez, Martha Diaz, Veronica Segura, and Miss Loretta.
Thank you to Diane Vena, Anjali Tapadia, Helen Higgins, Saskia and Sharon Kennedy, as well as The Fullerton Observer, Voice of OC, Telemundo, and Chapman University. Special thanks to the Environmental Justice groups from UC Irvine and Fullerton, and so many others who came to help us.
I want to acknowledge Mr. Curtis Gamble, ZJ, Maureen Milton, and our wonderful Todd and Yolanda Harrison. I apologize if I forgot anyone, but I also want to thank Ruthie Hanchett, Vanessa Estrella, Aruni Tahkur and our dedicated city staff, including Edgar Rosales and Ricardo Milos, as well as our wonderful Daisy Perez and the Parks and Recreation team, who made this possible.
Thank you to everyone who contributed—there are many of you, and you all made this happen. This trail is for the people. I also want to thank our Police Department for supporting this event, our Mayor Protem Charles, who was there on Saturday, our Councilmembers, Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, Cristina Garcia, as well as the representatives from Senator Tom Umberg and Congressman Lou Correa’s office.
There were so many people who came together for this project, and I apologize for any names I’ve missed. This is the result of many years of advocacy, proving that nothing is impossible when you dedicate yourself to the right cause. I remember someone once told me that this is a trail for Latinos, but I believe it is for our entire community. Thank you so much for everything.
Why do Road Safety Meetings Keep Getting Canceled?
Local Speaker: This weekend, I had the opportunity to ride the Union Pacific Trail, and it was truly a wonderful experience. I don’t want to diminish the remarkable success of this trail, nor the accomplishments of the staff who brought it to life in such a short time. However, I would like to remind the public of the history of this council’s opposition to the trail for years. Council members Jung and Dunlap only supported the project after staff proposed a 10-foot reservation for future commercial development on either side of the trail. In my opinion, the trail should have been dedicated entirely to public use, indefinitely.
That being said, the trail itself is beautiful and clearly represents a victory of the community overcoming obstacles. I would like to reiterate my previous request to name the trail in honor of Eglith Nuncci, who, along with many others, fought tirelessly to make this trail a reality.
Additionally, I want to address the active transportation committee meetings. Unfortunately, our meeting scheduled for December was canceled once again, even as we continue to experience pedestrian and cyclist collisions. These incidents lead to injuries and even loss of life, and I do not understand why these meetings are being canceled. I have tried reaching out to staff, but sometimes I receive a response, and sometimes I do not. When I do get a reply, it often states that there are no agenda items, which surprises me.
I feel I have no other option but to come here to the council to request assistance. We need to improve our efforts to protect people on our streets and prevent injuries and fatalities. We can take action, and I urge you to help make that happen.
Steven Sherry, a commissioner on the Transportation and Circulation Commission, expressed the following concerns: “I, similar to some of the other comments made tonight, would like to inquire about the frequent cancellations of our meetings over the past year. At least a third of our meetings have been canceled, which is concerning for a city of this size. Transportation is a critical issue, and I believe the staff is doing a tremendous job collaborating with the Transportation Commission. However, there is much more work to be done, and we can only accomplish this if we meet regularly.
If a holiday or another conflict arises, I suggest that we reschedule those meetings rather than simply cancel them. I understand that the decision to cancel was not made by the chair, as we just elected a new chair at our last meeting. My main inquiry today is to ensure that we can hold our meetings with greater regularity so we can address the issues that the residents of Fullerton care deeply about.”
Local speaker: I want to echo some points made by other public commenters regarding the committee attendance and cancellation report included in tonight’s consent calendar. This report highlights repeated cancellations, prolonged vacancies, and committees with members who haven’t attended a single meeting, especially those related to transportation.
The Active Transportation Committee has canceled most of its scheduled meetings this year, and the Transportation and Circulation Commission has only met a few times, despite transportation safety and road conditions being among the city’s most pressing issues. Advisory committees are meant to provide oversight, public input, and policy development. When they are unable to meet regularly or operate with a full membership, transparency suffers, and decision-making gets deferred to the administration.
As the Council looks ahead to upcoming committee appointments and reorganization decisions, I hope these issues of attendance and scheduling are treated as serious governance concerns. Effective leadership requires participation and follow-through.
Local speaker: I want to talk about the roads. Recently, while driving on Raymond, I hit a pothole so large that it damaged my car. I try to keep my car looking nicer than others; I have custom rims, but two of them are now damaged—one is barely hanging on, and I can’t even use the other one. I’ve filed a claim with the city and am currently waiting for a response.
My car is in rough shape, and I want to keep it looking good to fit in with the community. It’s important to me not to feel out of place, as I don’t want to give the impression that I’m homeless. I just want to emphasize how bad the roads are here. I have pictures of the damage and would appreciate any assistance with this situation.
I want to keep my car in good condition, but now I have a rim that’s cracked and barely secure. It’s very dangerous to drive like this. I’ve been working on getting better and have currently been sober for 158 days. I’m committed to reintegrating into the community, and any help would be greatly appreciated. The city is reviewing my claim, and they haven’t denied it yet. I have documentation, including pictures, to support my case. Thank you for allowing me to speak.
Fullerton Needs a Cold Weather Shelter Now
Curtis Gamble, an activist for the homeless, veterans, Cal State Fullerton students, OCTA bus drivers, seniors, and the low-income community, has the following recommendations:
The City of Fullerton needs to open a 24-hour cold weather shelter immediately—preferably tonight. The rental apartments at the Ranch La Paz Mobile Home Park could serve as a suitable cold-weather shelter, as it is located in the SB-2 Industrial Zone designated for emergency shelters and recuperative care housing. Many of the rental homes currently cost around $3,000 a month. Rancho La Paz Mobile Home Park is an all-ages community located at 501 E Orangethorpe Ave., straddling Anaheim and Fullerton, and has 380 mobile homes—approximately 240 in Anaheim and 140 in Fullerton. According to the 2025 Point-in-Time Count, there are around 300 homeless individuals in Fullerton.
I’d also like to highlight the Point of Commons Apartments, which offer affordable housing at 1600 W Commonwealth Ave. in Fullerton. They have one, two, and three-bedroom units and are accepting various housing vouchers. These will be available starting in March 2026.
As a former OCTA bus driver, I want to emphasize that OCTA can play a crucial role in assisting our homeless community. In the past month, since I left the Fullerton Navigation Center shelter, I have been riding the bus every night, and I’ve observed many homeless individuals on these routes, traveling all the way from Fullerton to cities like Santa Ana and Anaheim. We urgently need to take action. Many people are lying in storefronts, freezing, and some are in critical danger.
We urgently need a cold-weather shelter. It is cold tonight, and we must act quickly. We need to utilize navigation centers to take people in immediately. Moreover, OCTA bus drivers should be able to assist by picking up individuals and dropping them off at shelters. We cannot rely solely on the availability of smaller vans; the bus drivers can provide a critical service in this situation.
Hot Meals for the Homeless
Robin Wolsey: The clock started before I even got up to the podium. I am one of the cooks at Orangethorpe Christian Church, where we provide hot meals for the homeless. Each Monday night for the past 32 years, I have cooked meals for those in need. Thank you for this opportunity to speak. However, we are losing funding and urgently need your support. We are struggling to keep this program running.
Not only do we serve hot meals, but we also provide survival bags that include water, snacks, and dry socks—anything we can collect through donations. Every Monday, a small team of dedicated volunteers comes together to prepare these meals and packages.
I have visited this board a couple of times before and invite you again to join us this Monday for our Hot Meals program at 2200 W Orange Thorpe at Orangethorpe Christian Church. We serve hot meals to anyone in need, but without additional funding, we face the threat of closing down.
Please show me how I can receive help; I am looking to you, Valencia, as you are my district representative. Zahra, although not here, also expressed his willingness to help. Thank you.
Environmental Concerns
Jensen Hallstrom: I would like to start by mentioning that on July 15th, the Council approved a contract for the construction of the Euclid Sidewalk Gap Closure Project, which cost the city approximately one-third of one million dollars. The intention of this project was to improve pedestrian accessibility from the Sal Eduardo along Euclid for 500 feet south toward Bass and Cherry Creek, as well as to enhance drainage by installing two catch basins in place of the existing gutter drains.
I believe this project was an opportunity to highlight and celebrate a unique and rare remaining piece of natural creek, which serves as a tributary to both Bass and Cherry Creeks. Many creeks in Fullerton have been paved over into concrete channels, resulting in blighted areas dominated by invasive weeds and graffiti, as well as the loss of habitat and scenic aesthetics. The section of Euclid we’re discussing is a scenic corridor within Fullerton, as are Bass and Cherry Creeks.
However, for the cost of one-third of one million dollars, the city approved a 500-foot long concrete sidewalk when there were alternative, less expensive options that were equally ADA accessible. I believe there was a lapse in judgment regarding this project. I sincerely hope that future projects adjacent to seasonal creeks in Fullerton will take a watershed approach and consider more sensible options.
Some of the drawbacks of this project included damage to the tree canopy that contributes to the green scenic appeal of that area of Euclid. During construction, the installation of the 500-foot fence resulted in mechanical damage to some of the mature trees along the creek. Additionally, improperly piled soil around the bases of these trees may lead to future root rot.
I also want to mention the World War II memorial in Hillcrest, which has been deteriorating for years. This memorial was erected in 1946 and honors over 50 servicemen. (microphone was shut off)
Thank you
Dominic Moonhart, District 3: I haven’t even made it to the podium, and you have already started the timer. I want to use this opportunity to thank many people for their support and encouragement. Special thanks to Mayor Pro Tem Charles: Thank you for being the most transparent and outstanding City Council member this city has witnessed.
To Council Members Jung and Valencia, thank you for your empty promises.
Condolences
Yolanda Harrison: I hope to address you as Madam Mayor later [indicating the Mayor Pro Team Dr. Shana Charles.] First, I would like to start with some good news. I received a piece of mail yesterday indicating that the INS is extending my two-year green card for another four years. This also highlights how backed up they are.
Fred Jung, could you please look up? And Valencia, I appreciate your attempt to offer condolences, but it’s hard to hear with so many people talking. Mr. Mayor, I want to bring attention to my husband. [indicating a vial of ashes] Are you going to extend your condolences to him? He was an active member of this community and an engaged voter. He attended meetings to support seniors and seek help, yet you can’t even look me in the face. Where are the condolences? He deserved a posthumous award for his work and service to the city, seniors, and everyone else. He served as the chairman of your senior advisory committee, and yet you can’t even acknowledge my presence. I am truly disgusted with you.
Chamber Awards Jung
Andrew Gregson: Mayor, I’m not sure if this is the right moment, but we always try to visit all the cities we serve in our area. Today, we wanted to present you with this plaque and the certificate of recognition. If I may read it out loud:
Certificate of Recognition presented to Mayor Fred Young by the North Orange County Chamber of Commerce.
I also included the Fullerton Chamber on the back for you. We want to express our gratitude to Mayor Fred Young for his dedicated service over the past year. His leadership, steady guidance, and commitment to the residents and businesses have made a meaningful and lasting impact. We appreciate your partnership and support of the business community, as well as the grace with which you have carried out this role. Thank you very much for your service. This was presented to you today, Sir. I’ll leave it outside.
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Categories: Community Voices, Local Government, Local News