Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in La Verne public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
Waste Management Billing Dispute Raised in Public Comment
Starting September 1, Waste Management bills residents directly instead of the city — same rates, new bill format, 120-day late-fee grace period, plus August workshops and a weekly help desk at City Hall. Check your first bill carefully.
Middle Management 2% COLA
Sergeants and the captain get a new three-year contract aligned with the officers' union deal — pay raises, a master's degree incentive, and higher CalPERS contributions — costing $19,412 this year.
Purchasing Policy and Competitive Bidding
The city raised its no-bid purchase threshold to $7,500 and replaced mandatory five-year rebidding with a documented review. Critics warn it invites favoritism toward long-time contractors, pointing to unbid contracts like RKA's million-dollar-a-year deal.
Employee Compensation and Benefits Update
The council updated benefit resolutions and the full-time salary chart, including roughly $43,000 in added medical contributions and $147,595 in negotiated raises — all general fund costs offset by Measure LV money. Negotiations with remaining employee groups continue.
Police Middle Management Labor Agreement
Sergeants and the captain get a new three-year contract aligned with the officers' union deal — pay raises, a master's degree incentive, and higher CalPERS contributions — costing $19,412 this year.
Staffing Vacancies and Turnover
The city reported a 6.67% vacancy rate (13 openings out of 195 positions), but one resident flagged a roughly 12-13% turnover rate and questioned management. Council asked for better data next year distinguishing retirements, promotions, and separations.
Community Project Partnerships and Public Resource Use
After the Walk of Honor plaque controversy, new rules now require council approval for any community group project using city staff or resources beyond three hours or $1,500. Critics called the original plaque project a backdoor deal; council members framed the regulation as transparency going forward.
Utilities Manager Salary Increase vs. Budget Pressure
Staff proposed raising the vacant Utilities Manager pay range 9.3% while the city manager's own email warns of a $1.8 million budget deficit. Staff said the position sits in the water fund and the raise is needed to compete with Upland and other agencies.