Fullerton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fullerton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Gun Buyback Program Recognition
Fullerton Police got a big shoutout from the county for helping pull nearly 1,300 unwanted guns off our streets through a regional buyback program. It's a huge win for local safety, making sure those firearms never fall into the wrong hands.
Hunt Library Branch Usage and Arts Programming
The board has been working on a new exhibit for the Hunt Library set to go on display in February 2027, and Parks & Recreation has been giving updates on the Hunt Branch. These items were on the September agenda and may have carried over to October, but no October record is available yet.
Mills Act Historic Preservation Contracts
Five historic properties were approved for Mills Act contracts, giving property tax savings in exchange for historic upkeep.
Coyote Management and Wildlife Resources
Residents raised concerns about injured coyotes and requested better visibility of the city's coyote management plan and educational resources.
Environmental Justice Element Adoption
The city adopted its first environmental justice element to address pollution and health issues in nine designated neighborhoods.
Council Meeting Public Comment Placement
Residents and council members debated whether public comment periods should default to the beginning of council meetings.
Safe Streets and Traffic Safety Action Plan
The council approved several engineering and construction contracts, including storm drain repairs on Luanne Avenue, storm drain lining, and traffic signal upgrades at Orangethorpe and Harbor.
City Hall Water Conservation & Fountain Restoration
The city updated its municipal code to ban potable water use on non-functional turf to meet state conservation laws.
Administrative Services Department Renaming and Finance Director Positions
The administrative services department was officially renamed to the finance department with upgraded executive pay ranges.
Solid Waste Management Services RFP Selection
The city approved a long-term exclusive solid waste handling agreement with Republic Services to manage garbage, recycling, and organic waste collection for residents and businesses.
Street Sweeping Contract and Service Quality
The city is reviewing its street sweeping program as it prepares a new contract RFP for 2027. Committee members discussed whether bringing street sweeping back in-house could improve service quality and reduce road damage compared to the current contractor.
Traffic Signal Timing and Synchronization
Committee members raised concerns about traffic signals turning red unnecessarily early in the morning and lack of proper synchronization across major corridors, causing idling and driver frustration.
Municipal Budgetary Challenges
Staff and committee members reviewed how city infrastructure projects are funded, noting that restricted revenue sources like gas taxes and enterprise funds limit financial flexibility for street repairs.
Street Rehabilitation and SB 1 Funds Allocation
The committee reviewed street conditions across Fullerton, noting that while local road ratings have ticked up, arterial roads face challenges and limited funding restricts comprehensive neighborhood repaving.
Historic Landmark Designation for "Flight" Sculpture
Five local properties are being officially added to the city's historical register to protect their cultural significance.
Automated License Plate Reader (FLOCK) Camera Program
Multiple residents raised privacy and transparency concerns regarding the city's automated license plate recognition cameras during public comment. The police chief addressed the concerns, stating data is locally owned and strictly audited.
Lower Golden Hill Neighborhood Zone Change
The city advanced a zoning amendment to protect the Lower Golden Hill neighborhood by establishing a preservation zone to guard its historic character while allowing accessory dwelling units and compatible additions.
Woods Avenue parking changes and temporary permits for Fullerton Ford construction
Time-restrictive parking comes off Woods and Williamson Avenues, and a temporary permit program will let dealership customers and employees park on the street during construction.
Crossing guard request at Chapman and Acacia
Commissioners asked the city to assign an adult crossing guard at the signalized intersection of Chapman and Acacia Avenues.
School loading zone on Hughes Drive
Arborland Montessori wanted curb space for drop-off and pick-up loading. The commission approved removing 20 feet of red curb, slightly less than the school asked for.