City Council Meeting - October 21, 2025
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The Regular Meeting of the City Council was called to order at 4:02 p.m. on October 21, 2025, in the City Council Chamber at City Hall with Mayor Duncan presiding.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Duncan led the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. PRESENTATIONS
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Steward provided comments regarding Item 4.i., noting current berm impacts and anticipating greater future expenditures.
Motion made by:
Mayor Duncan
Seconded by:
Councilmember Downey
Consent Calendar approved with the addition of Item 8.f. and removal of Item 4.g.
Yes (5):
Mayor Duncan, Councilmember Downey, Councilmember Fleming, Councilmember Purvis, and Councilmember Steward Motion Carried
4.a
Approval of Reading by Title and Waiver of Reading in Full of Ordinances on This Agenda Approve the reading by title and waive the reading in full of all Ordinances on the agenda.
4.b
Approve Warrants Certified by Treasurer as Correct and Budget-Compliant for FY 2025-26
1. Warrant List 10.21.25.pdf
Approve the Warrants as certified by the City/Agency Treasurer.
4.c
Approval of the Minutes of the October 7, 2025 Regular and Closed Session Meetings
1. Closed Meeting Minutes - October 7, 2025.pdf
2. Regular Meeting Minutes - October 7, 2025.pdf
Approve the Minutes of the October 7, 2025 Regular and Closed Session Meetings.
4.d
Resolution Extending a Local Emergency Due to the Discovery of Caulerpa prolifera in the Coronado Cays
1. Staff Report - Caulerpa Emergency Declaration 10212025.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Resolution 2025-53.pdf
Adopt Resolution 2025-53 to extend the declaration of local emergency due to the discovery of Caulerpa
prolifera
.
4.e
Quarterly Projects Progress Report
1. Staff Report - Quarterly Projects Report 10212025.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Q3 Status Report.pdf
Receive report and provide direction, as appropriate.
4.f
2025 Orange Avenue Holiday Banners
1. Staff Report - 2025 Holiday Banner Series.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Holiday Banner Designs.pdf
Review and approve the recommendation of the Cultural Arts Commission to use the 2024 holiday banners (3 designs) and “Stay Local” themed banners (3 designs) for the 2025 holiday banner series.
4.h
Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Purchase Agreement with Savant Solutions in the Amount not to Exceed $600,000 over Five Years to Renew Arctic Wolf Networks Cybersecurity Services and Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Terms and Conditions Agreement with Arctic Wolf Networks
1. Arctic Wolf Cybersecurity Services Renewal.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Savant Solutions Quote.pdf
3. Attachment 2 - AWN General Terms and Conditions.pdf
Authorize the City Manager to execute a purchase agreement with Savant Solutions in an amount not to exceed $600,000 for renewal of the City’s Arctic Wolf Networks cybersecurity services for an initial term of three (3) years, with options to renew for two (2) additional one (1) year terms; and authorize the City Manager to exercise renewal options for years four and five and execute a terms and conditions agreement with Arctic Wolf networks.
4.i
Authorize the City Manager to Execute Task Order Modification No. 2 to Kleinfelder, Inc. in the Amount of $127,695 for Acquisition of Required Regulatory Permits for the Seawall Stabilization and Repair Public Right of Way Project
1. Staff Report - Cays Seawall Kleinfelder Task Order Modification 2.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Kleinfelder Task Order Modification No. 2.pdf Authorize the City Manager to execute Task Order Modification No. 2 to Kleinfelder, Inc. in the amount of $127,695 for acquisition of required regulatory permits for the Seawall Stabilization and Repair Public Right of Way Project and provide authority to the City Manager to execute future contract modifications and change orders related to the project within the Council approved project budget.
4.j
Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Task Order in an Amount Not to Exceed $700,000 with West Coast Arborist, Inc. for As-Needed Tree Trimming Services
1. Staff Report- WCA Amendment and Task Order.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - WCA Contract Amendment and Task Order.pdf Authorize the City Manager to execute a task order in an amount not to exceed $700,000 with West Coast Arborist, Inc. for as-needed tree trimming services.
4.g
Consideration of Amendment No. 1 to Encroachment Permit E2507-004 and Associated Encroachment Maintenance and Removal Agreement for Private Improvements at 417 B Avenue
1. Staff Report - Encroachment Permit Amendment for 417 B Avenue.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Portion of Approved Building Permit Plan.pdf
3. Attachment 2 - Current Raised Planter.pdf
4. Attachment 3 - E2507-004 EMRA recorded 9.23.25.pdf
5. Attachment 4 - Previous Planter Bed.pdf
Jim Newton, Assistant Director of Public Services and Engineering, presented the staff report.
Councilmember Downey asked how setback and property line standards apply in areas without sidewalks, such as Country Club, and how those distances compare to the example on B Avenue. Mr. Newton explained that property line locations vary by street design in Country Club, but setback rules still apply, and noted that the curb-to-improvement distance on B Avenue is roughly 14 feet.
Mayor Duncan asked whether this meant Country Club homeowners could build features directly up to the curb. Mr. Newton responded that, although the distance between the curb and private property varies by street, setback requirements continue to apply and prevent construction directly at the curb line.
Dani Allen, applicant, provided comments regarding replacing a deteriorated fence, raising existing planters along the property line, and selecting materials intended to align with the home and surrounding neighborhood.
Bob Allen, applicant, provided comments regarding the project’s background, the original planter configuration, their contractor’s permitting oversight, prior City inspections, neighborhood support, and their request to retain the existing planter boxes.
Discussion ensued regarding the variation of right-of-way conditions across different blocks, the prevalence of similar planter configurations on the street, concerns about pet damage to landscaping, and whether the applicants’ planter boxes could be supported with conditions such as indemnification. Additional comments addressed potential safety issues related to sharp edges near the sidewalk, consistency with existing setback requirements, and the broader policy implications of approving unpermitted encroachments.
Motion made by:
Councilmember Fleming
Seconded by:
Councilmember Purvis
Deny Amendment No. 1 to Encroachment Permit E2507-004 and associated Encroachment Maintenance and Removal Agreement for private improvements at 417 B Avenue.
Yes (4):
Mayor Duncan, Councilmember Fleming, Councilmember Purvis, and Councilmember Steward No (1):
Councilmember Downey
Motion Carried
5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Linda Charles
provided comments regarding the request to amend the liquor license at Nicky Rottens (100 Orange Avenue).
Rena Clancy
, Chamber of Commerce president, provided comments regarding the Chamber’s recent displacement, current business corridor challenges, and a request for the City to consider partnering on a physical space for continued Chamber operations.
6. CITY MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Tina Friend, City Manager, provided updates regarding upcoming Avenue of Heroes events, progress on capital and policy projects, staffing and permitting factors affecting project timelines, current sequencing of major public works efforts, upcoming work on the library facility and other key initiatives, and additional direction-driven projects such as the enclosed dog area at Cays Park.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. GENERAL BUSINESS
8.a
Council Reports on Interagency Assignments
1. 8a. Councilmember Purvis 10212025.pdf
2. 8a. Councilmember Steward 10212025.pdf
Councilmember Purvis provided updates regarding upcoming actions of the wastewater JPA, continued coordination with member agencies, succession planning efforts, and scheduled site visits related to regional water projects.
Councilmember Fleming provided updates regarding a recent Eagle Scout recognition event and participation in the Tijuana River Working Group meeting, including information on new trash boom installations.
Councilmember Downey provided updates regarding regional utility coordination efforts, long-term transit funding discussions at the MTS Board, and participation in a recent Assembly Select Committee meeting on sea-level rise held at the Winn Room.
Councilmember Steward provided updates regarding the City’s recent Beacon Spotlight Award for sustainability, collaboration with local and regional environmental partners, and ongoing work related to shoreline preservation and coastal resiliency.
Mayor Duncan provided updates regarding participation in a recent San Diego Chamber delegation trip to Mexico City, including discussions on transboundary sewage issues and regional agency coordination.
8.b
Rotary Club of Coronado 100th Anniversary Community Monument Project in Tidelands Park
1. Staff Report - Rotary 100th Coronado Sign.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Monument Sign Design Drawings.pdf
3. Attachment 2 - Renderings and Location.pdf
Discuss, provide feedback and direct staff as appropriate regarding the “CORONADO” monument sign proposed for placement in Tidelands Park, as recommended and funded by the Rotary Club of Coronado to commemorate the club’s 100 th
Anniversary.
City Manager Friend presented the staff report utilizing a PowerPoint.
Natalie Bailey
, President of the Rotary Club of Coronado, provided information regarding the organization’s 100th anniversary and its proposed commemorative project for the community.
Suzanne Popp
provided additional information regarding the organization’s planned 100th-anniversary events.
Steve Duermeyer
provided historical context regarding the club’s founding, early civic engagement, and preparations for its upcoming 100th-anniversary exhibit at the Coronado Historical Association.
Bill Sandke
provided a presentation regarding the proposed commemorative monument project, including its design, location, permitting with the Port of San Diego, maintenance commitments, and timeline for installation.
Councilmember Downey asked for clarification on the project’s compliance with Port requirements, and Mr. Sandke responded that all issues have been addressed and agreements reached, though the final document has not yet been signed.
Councilmember Fleming asked for clarification regarding the use of Coronado’s designated green color and related design elements, and Mr. Sandke confirmed that the project incorporates Coronado green, matches existing community fonts, and follows Port policy guidance for object approval.
Discussion ensued regarding the proposed Rotary monument project, including considerations related to location, aesthetics, maintenance, visibility from the pathway, and the temporary nature of the installation, with final consensus not to issue a letter of support from the City.
8.c
2026 Major and Moderate Special Events
1. Staff Report - 2026 Major and Moderate Special Event Requests.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - 2026 Letters of Intent and Event Summaries.pdf
3. Attachment 2 - Draft Special Events Calendar.pdf
4. Attachment 3 - Fee Waiver Decision Tree.pdf
Senior Management Analyst Kelli Maples presented the staff report utilizing a PowerPoint.
Mayor Duncan asked for clarification regarding the fee waiver amounts associated with the listed events, and Ms. Maples responded that the waived amounts reflect application fees.
Councilmember Downey asked about the criteria distinguishing moderate and major events and about limits on scheduling major events on the same day, and Ms. Maples responded that event categorization depends on participant numbers, required staffing levels, and operational impacts, and clarified that the City generally avoids scheduling two major events on the same day except for limited summer exceptions.
Councilmember Downey provided comments regarding event attribution, stating that the circumnavigation activity is independent of the Fourth of July Committee and should not be treated as part of its permitted events.
Mayor Duncan asked for clarification regarding the composition of direct personnel costs for events, how those costs would be applied under different subsidy levels, and where a beer garden associated with the Liberty Celebration Swim would be located, and Ms. Maples responded that the direct costs consist of staffing such as lifeguards and police, that both the application fee and personnel costs would be subject to the chosen reimbursement tier, and that any beer garden for the event would be situated within a designated area at Glorietta Bay Park.
Councilmember Downey asked for clarification on how fundraisers are defined within the fee structure, and Ms. Maples responded that a fundraiser is considered an event designed to generate revenue beyond covering its operational expenses.
Councilmember Purvis asked whether the Liberty Celebration Swim had previously used its approved alcohol waiver and whether other race organizers had expressed interest in beer gardens, and Ms. Maples responded that the event has not utilized the waiver, that only certain other races have inquired, and that alcohol use in Tidelands Park is restricted by municipal code to specific hours.
Discussion ensued regarding the 2026 Special Events Calendar, including the organization and presentation of requested events, the need for additional time to consider future fee-waiver policy changes, and concerns about alcohol waivers for early-morning events. Councilmembers discussed the cumulative impacts of Fourth of July activities on staffing, logistics, traffic, parking, and public safety, and considered whether the Crown City Classic should be moved off the parade date for 2026. Additional discussion included the operational safety of Bike the Bay, the value and community benefit of individual events relative to City resource demands, the accuracy of cost estimates, and the importance of communicating expectations to event organizers.
Jamie Monroe
, Race Director for the Crown City Classic, provided comments regarding the proposed date change, noting the event’s history, participant preferences, community fundraising benefits, and asking that the race remain on July 4 for 2026.
Further discussion ensued regarding the proposed date of the Crown City Classic, including acknowledgment of the community’s longstanding support for the race and recognition of the significant operational and public safety demands associated with Fourth of July activities. Comments noted the importance of balancing event traditions with staffing limitations, the potential benefits of rescheduling to reduce strain on resources, and the challenges created by past overlaps between holiday events. Consideration was given to allowing the race to remain on July 4 for 2026 while beginning planning for possible date adjustments in future years.
Motion made by:
Mayor Duncan
Seconded by:
Councilmember Steward
Find that the program is exempt from the provisions of CEQA based on Article 19, Section 15304(e) (minor alterations to land) which allows for temporary uses of land and events such as carnivals, seasonal sales, and parades that will have negligible or no permanent effect on the environment, and Approve the 2026 Special Event Calendar and event parameters as detailed in the 2026 Event Summaries; Approve the 2026 fee waivers, alcohol waivers, and facility use waivers, with the exception that the alcohol waiver for the Liberty Celebration Swim is not approved; Review the Special Events fee waiver analysis and provide direction, as appropriate; State, as part of this action, that it is the Council’s policy direction that future Fourth of July event approvals will not include the Crown City Classic on the same date as the Fourth of July Parade, recognizing that a future Council may revisit or modify this direction.
Councilmember Downey proposed a substitute motion:
Motion made by:
Councilmember Downey
Seconded by:
Councilmember Fleming
Find that the program is exempt from the provisions of CEQA based on Article 19, Section 15304(e) (minor alterations to land) which allows for temporary uses of land and events such as carnivals, seasonal sales, and parades that will have negligible or no permanent effect on the environment, and Approve the events listed in the staff report, with the exception that the Crown City Classic shall be scheduled on a day other than July 4 in 2026, and that in future years the event shall not be held on the same date as the Fourth of July Parade; Approve the 2026 fee waivers, alcohol waivers, and facility use waivers, with the exception that the alcohol waiver for the Liberty Celebration Swim is not approved; Review the Special Events fee waiver analysis and provide direction, as appropriate.
Yes (2):
Councilmember Downey, and Councilmember Fleming
No (3):
Mayor Duncan, Councilmember Purvis, and Councilmember Steward Motion Failed
The original motion was brought back for consideration:
Motion made by:
Mayor Duncan
Seconded by:
Councilmember Steward
Find that the program is exempt from the provisions of CEQA based on Article 19, Section 15304(e) (minor alterations to land) which allows for temporary uses of land and events such as carnivals, seasonal sales, and parades that will have negligible or no permanent effect on the environment, and Approve the 2026 Special Event Calendar and event parameters as detailed in the 2026 Event Summaries; Approve the 2026 fee waivers, alcohol waivers, and facility use waivers, with the exception that the alcohol waiver for the Liberty Celebration Swim is not approved; Review the Special Events fee waiver analysis and provide direction, as appropriate; State, as part of this action, that it is the Council’s policy direction that future Fourth of July event approvals will not include the Crown City Classic on the same date as the Fourth of July Parade, recognizing that a future Council may revisit or modify this direction.
Yes (4):
Mayor Duncan, Councilmember Fleming, Councilmember Purvis, and Councilmember Steward No (1):
Councilmember Downey
Motion Carried
Mayor Duncan called for a recess at 6:30 p.m. Council reconvened at 6:37 p.m.
8.d
Consideration of a Future Mini-Shuttle Program
1. Staff Report - Consideration of Options for a Future Mini-Shuttle Program.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - March 18, 2025 City Council Staff Report.pdf Senior Planner Tricia Olsen presented the staff report utilizing a PowerPoint.
Councilmember Fleming asked for additional information regarding the geofenced micro-transit model used by other agencies, and Ms. Olsen responded with an overview of how discount codes are applied through partnered rideshare apps and how subsidies are calculated for eligible trips.
Councilmember Downey asked whether the micro-transit alternatives under consideration include electric or alternative-fuel vehicles, and Ms. Olsen responded that vehicle types could be specified in an RFP for a dedicated micro-transit provider and that further research would be needed to determine whether rideshare-based options could be limited to electric vehicles.
Discussion ensued regarding options for a future micro-transit program, including vehicle type, fare structure, service area, operational schedules, and access for minors. Comments addressed the desire to advance Climate Action Plan goals through an electric fleet; potential funding sources such as grants, Discover Coronado, and advertising; whether a flat rider fare should be implemented; feasibility of serving the Cays; the benefits of on-demand, door-to-door service; scalable fleet sizes and hour-by-hour deployment; elimination of duplicative shuttle bus services; and whether to allow unaccompanied minors or require an age threshold. Councilmembers also discussed the need for financial sustainability, the possibility of differential resident and non-resident fares, alternatives to a call center, and the importance of reducing drunk-driving risk by providing nighttime service. Direction was given for staff to return with options that incorporate the discussed considerations, including cost impacts and operational feasibility.
Motion made by:
Mayor Duncan
Seconded by:
Councilmember Fleming
Receive and accept the staff report and direct staff to prepare options and an RFP for a future microtransit program that reflects the Council’s discussion. Staff should evaluate an electric fleet; a rider fare structure (including possible resident and non-resident rates); use of advertising; door-to-door and on-demand service models; a scalable fleet sized to demand; feasible options for limited Cays service; continued service to hotel areas; replacing the summer shuttle bus; appropriate operating hours; access for minors with any needed safeguards; alternatives to a call center; and overall financial feasibility.
Yes (5):
Mayor Duncan, Councilmember Downey, Councilmember Fleming, Councilmember Purvis, and Councilmember Steward Motion Carried
8.e
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 84.10 of the Coronado Municipal Code to Implement the Historic Context Statement and Historic Resources Inventory, and Adoption of the Historic Context Statement and Historic Resources Inventory
1. Staff Report - Ordinance Introduction Historic Context Statement and Resource Inventory 1.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Ordinance 2025-09.pdf
Councilmembers Downey recused herself from the item, stating that she was in the process of submitting an application for her home to undergo the historic review process with the Historic Resource Commission. Councilmember Purvis recused herself from the item, stating that her home is designated within tier two of the Historic Resources Inventory. Both Councilmembers left the dais at 7:24 p.m.
Senior Planner Tricia Olsen presented the staff report utilizing a PowerPoint.
Mayor Duncan asked whether adoption of the ordinance would change the review requirements for Tier One or Tier Two properties, including whether Tier Two properties would still require Historic Resource Commission review. Ms. Olsen replied that no changes would occur for Tier One or Tier Two properties, and that the only modification would be removing the 75-year review requirement for properties classified as Tier Three.
Alan Kinzel
provided comments regarding support for exempting Tier Three properties from mandatory historic review based on prior evaluations, efficient use of staff resources, and minimizing delays for homeowners.
Mila Albertson
provided comments regarding the possible limitations of drive-by evaluations and the potential loss of historic information or homes without more thorough review.
Debbie Geometti
provided comments regarding support for moving forward with the proposed historic review policy.
Discussion ensued regarding the proposed tiered historic review system, including comments on preserving Coronado’s character, the general accuracy of the tier classifications, and the desire to ensure that historically significant Tier Three properties are not overlooked. Discussion also addressed resource constraints, the importance of maintaining a functional mandatory review program, and the need to provide clarity for homeowners. Councilmember Steward expressed support for adopting the ordinance as presented, while stating an intention to return with a Policy 9 request to revisit specific Tier Three properties identified through additional review.
Motion made by:
Councilmember Fleming
Seconded by:
Councilmember Steward
Adopt the Historic Context Statement and Historic Resources Inventory; and introduce Ordinance No. 2025-09, “An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Coronado, California, amending Chapter 84.10 of the Coronado Municipal Code to implement the Historic Context Statement and Historic Resources Inventory”, and adopt the Historic Context Statement and Historic Resources Inventory.
Yes (3):
Mayor Duncan, Councilmember Fleming, and Councilmember Steward Recusal (2):
Councilmember Downey, and Councilmember Purvis
Motion Carried
8.f
Resolution to Extend a Local Emergency Declaration in the City of Coronado Due to Impacts from Cross-Border Water Pollution
1. Staff Report - Emergency Declaration - Cross-Border Water Quality 10212025.pdf
2. Attachment 1 - Resolution 2025-54.pdf
Adopt Resolution 2025-54 to Extend the Local Emergency Declaration due to cross-border water pollution.
Resolution 2025-54 was adopted under the Consent Calendar.
9. BOARD, COMMISSION, AND ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORTS
10. CITY ATTORNEY
11. COMMUNICATIONS WRITTEN
12. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Duncan adjourned the Regular Meeting at 7:56 p.m.