In a recent City Council meeting held on June 2, 2025, the City of La Habra officials discussed significant developments in the planning and public works departments, highlighting ongoing projects and future goals that aim to enhance community infrastructure and services.

The meeting opened with a positive update from the planning division, which has recently undergone a complete overhaul. The division is now fully staffed with two full-time planners, one part-time contract planner, and a planning manager. This staffing boost has allowed the department to manage an unexpected increase in workload, resulting in higher-than-anticipated revenue from plan check and building inspection fees. This financial uptick is crucial as it helps offset rising operational costs, particularly in light of inflation.

Albert Mendoza, Deputy Director of Public Works and City Engineer, presented the department's budget for the upcoming fiscal year. He outlined several key accomplishments, including the completion of the Monte Vista street rehabilitation program and safety improvements at critical intersections. Mendoza emphasized the importance of the capital improvement program (CIP), which currently includes 28 ongoing projects with a total budget of approximately $40 million. Additionally, the department is proposing 37 new projects with an estimated budget of $11 million, bringing the total to around $51 million for the upcoming year.

The council members expressed appreciation for the progress made in improving local infrastructure, particularly in paving and enhancing alleyways. Mendoza noted that the city is nearing completion of a decade-long alley construction program, which has transformed previously degraded areas into well-maintained streets. This initiative not only improves aesthetics but also enhances property values, contributing to increased property tax revenue for the city.

The meeting also addressed the challenges of managing multiple projects simultaneously with a limited number of engineers. The Public Works department currently has five full-time engineers overseeing a substantial workload, which includes various paving projects and improvements to water and sewer systems. The council discussed the prioritization process for these projects, which involves assessing road quality to determine which areas require immediate attention.

In conclusion, the City Council's discussions underscored a commitment to enhancing La Habra's infrastructure and public services. With a proposed budget of approximately $73 million across all divisions, funded through a mix of general fund revenues and grants, the city is poised to continue its efforts in improving community facilities and addressing residents' needs. The council's proactive approach and the dedication of city staff were highlighted as key factors in the successful execution of these initiatives, setting a positive tone for the upcoming fiscal year.