1 THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,
CULVER CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD,
CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY,
AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD
REGULAR MEETING OF THE June 12, 2023
CITY COUNCIL, CULVER CITY 7:00 p.m.
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD,
CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Vera called the regular meeting of the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority, Redevelopment Financing Authority, and Successo r Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board to order at 5:34 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall.
Present: Albert Vera, Mayor
Yasmine-Imani McMorrin, Vice Mayor
Göran Eriksson, Council Member
Freddy Puza, Council Member
Dan O’Brien, Council Member
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Closed Session
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported no requests to speak on Closed Session items.
June 12, 2023
2 MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL, CULVER
CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION.
At 5:35 p.m. the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority , Redevelopment Financing Authority, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned to Closed Session to consider the following Closed Session Items:
CS-1 CC - Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation (2 Items)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
CS-2 Public Employee Performance Evaluation
Title: City Manager
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957
CS-3 CC - Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9505 W. Jefferson Boulevard (Public Works Yard), 4117 Overland Avenue (Veterans Park) and 9910 Jefferson Boulevard (Bill Botts Field)
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager; Jesse Mays, Assistant City Manager; Yanni Demitri , Public Works Director Other Parties Negotiators: Verizon and AT&T
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
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Reconvene
Mayor Vera reconvened the meeting of the City Council at 6:56 p.m. with five Council Members present.
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June 12, 2023
3 Recognition Presentations
Item R-1
Presentation of a Proclamation Designating June 2023 as Men’s Health Month, and June 12-18 as Men’s Health Week
Mayor Vera tabled Item R-1 as there was no one to receive the proclamation.
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Item R-2
Presentation of a Proclamation Designating June 2023 as Pride Month
Council Member Puza presented the Proclamation designating June 2023 as Pride Month.
Michelle Dennis, Equity and Human Relations Advisory Committee (EHRAC) Member, indicated being transgender and thanked the City Council for their action affirming the desire to live freely and enjoy life with dignity, peace, and joy.
Bubba Fish expressed appreciation for the proclamation and thanked all who attended the Pride event.
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Item R-3
Presentation of a Proclamation in Celebration of Juneteenth 2023
Vice Mayor McMorrin presented a proclamation in celebration of Juneteenth 2023.
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Item R-4
Presentation of a Proclamation Designating June 2023 as Gun Violence Awareness Month
Mayor Vera presented a proclamation designating June 2023 as Gun Violence Awareness Month.
June 12, 2023
4 Megan Oddsen thanked the City for the Proclamation; discussed the number of people shot every day in America; mass shootings; work to be done to stop the bloodshed; and she expressed appreciation to the Mayor and Council Members for their advocacy and support of common sense gun safety.
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Item R-6
(Out of Sequence)
Presentation of a Certificate of Recognition to Family Self Sufficiency Program Graduate, Kathy Hodges
Mayor Vera presented the Certificate of Recognition to Family Self Sufficiency Program graduate, Kathy Hodges.
Kathy Hodges expressed appreciation for all of the support indicating that she just wanted to work.
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Item R-5
Presentation of the 2023 Second Annual Innovation and
Performance Awards, Created by the Finance Advisory Committee, to Recognize Nine Culver City Staff Members for their Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Projects that Make Life Better in Culver City
Andrew Lachman, Finance Advisory Committee (FAC) Chair, provided background of the Innovation and Performance Awards; discussed the need to recognize employee efforts; the increased number of applications this year; and he expressed appreciation to businesses who made donations through the Cultural Affairs Foundation for the awardees.
Johnnie Griffing, FAC Member, presented Innovation and
Performance Awards to City employees, Jeannine Houchin, Anissa Di Vincente, Armando Abrego, Michele Williams, Dia Turner, Ryan Hund, Diana Chang on behalf of Kate Saunders Britton, Dana Anderson on behalf of Ofelia Garcia, and Valerie Perez.
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June 12, 2023
5 Regular Session
Mayor Vera reconvened the regular meeting of the City Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Housing
Authority Board, and Culver City Parking Authority at 7:30 p.m. with five Council Members present.
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Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Vera led the Pledge of Allegiance.
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Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Vera indicated nothing to report out of Closed Session.
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Community Announcements by Members/Information Items from Staff
Council Member Puza discussed the third annual Culver City Pride Ride and Rally on June 3 ; concern with LGBTQ+ rights; states that are not safe for LGBTQ+ individuals; homophobic comments he received during his campaign; queer business owners targeted in the San Fernando Valley; state legislators; anti -LGBTQ legislation introduced across the country; the constant threat of erasure and violence; he thanked the Mayor for honoring Gun Violence Awareness Month; discussed mass shootings over the weekend; honoring survivors and family members; the call to do more to create a peaceful society; the Fire Department Pancake Breakfast and Open House over the weekend; CERT (Community Emergency Response Training); and given that Fathers’ Day is coming soon, he encouraged everyone to think about the
contributions of fathers, grandparents and father figures.
Council Member O’Brien echoed comments made by Council Member Puza; reported attending the Pride event; indicated that he had been meant to read the proclamation for Men’s Health Month; he discussed Men’s Health Week; hikes he led as a Scout Leader; and he encouraged people to start a health routine.
Council Member Eriksson indicated that he and the Mayor would be attending the Mayor’s Roundtable with the Metro Board Chair June 12, 2023
6 and CEO (Chief Executive Officer); discussed coordinating public transportation; and strengthening partnerships.
Vice Mayor McMorrin indicated that she had to step away for a moment earlier and missed being in the employee recognition photographs as she was not feeling well, but was pushing through; discussed the Pulse Nightclub shooting; noted that the fight against homophobia continue d; expressed gratitude to be able to be a part of Pride; related a memory of a Girl Scout who questioned what the City was doing for LGBTQ youth several years ago noting that she was pleased to see the expansion and community involvement in Pride three years later; discussed hate escalating to gun violence; the importance of continued resources and awareness for prevention of gun violence; support for educating and ensuring that p eople do not build rhetoric; noted that June 10 marked 60 years since the Equal Pay Act was signed into law though women still suffer many pay disparities; reported that Black women earn 63 cents for every dollar earned by a white man; acknowledged work to be done for gender equity; and she invited everyone to join in at Ivy Station for the Juneteenth Celebration.
Mayor Vera reported attending the 91st Annual Mayor’s Conference in Columbus, Ohio noting that he would be bringing back a report in the near future.
Jason Sims, Acting Police Chief, introduced new Culver City Police Officers.
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Information Items
Item I-1
CC – Update on Homelessness Emergency (Including Project Homekey, Safe Camping, and Other Housing Programs)
Tevis Barnes, Housing and Human Services Director, provided an update on Project Homekey; discussed landscaping; emergency access; interviews for staff positions on the Mobile Crisis Team; platforms and tent installation for t he Safe Sleep Program; the contract with Urban Alchemy; insurance; and she introduced Dr. Daniel Richardson, Human Services and Crisis Intervention Manager.
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June 12, 2023
7 Joint Public Comment – Items NOT on the Agenda
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Stephen Jones discussed the need to address the distinction of Culver City in the statewide analysis of racial bias in Culver City Police Department (CCPD) stops; asked that the City immediately implement the state recommendation for a complete ban on pretextual stops and consent searches; expressed concern with the hiring of someone to lead the Mobile Crisis Team who has shown up in the past as part of the armed CCPD response team; discussed the premise of the new team; mental health response that causes harm by being carceral rather than care - based; the need to answer threshold questions; failure of the previous CCPD team and ensuring that the new team does not cause the same harms; and ensuring that Culver City residents feel safe reaching out to the team.
Marci Baun thanked the Sanitation Department for the kitchen pail for usage with the green bin and encouraged people to use them; questioned the status of changes to the lanes downtown; and she asked about movement as far as what goes on with the pool.
JT Parr discussed issues with housing, the environment, and the PGA Tour; wanted to see changes; and he proposed selling the state of Hawaii to eliminate student debt, create money for affordable housing, and provide a financial cushion to make all industries eco-friendly.
Dr. Jonathan Kramer, Culver City Amateur Radio Emergency Service (CCARES); discussed the organization; the 24-hour drill planned for June 24 on top of the Scenic overlook; the international event to hone skills and test equipment; he invited people to come by; and he thanked Culver City Fire Department (CCFD) personnel for their support.
Carolyn Libuser expressed appreciation that there were no more tents at the Senior Center; discussed property taxes; the Culver City Unified School District (CCUSD); the upcoming deficit; she felt that a lot of Measure K money was being wasted; and she asked people to go to School Board meetings to hold them accountable.
June 12, 2023
8 Earl Trusty, Ferrufino Interiors, Budget Blinds, and the Back Amigo, read a letter submitted by Dr. Eftekhari of United Dental Care requesting assistance with addressing the back alley; discussed numerous challenges posed by the dirt alley; the rainy season; noted the difficult y for City vehicles who use the alley; and he clarified that the alley was on the west side of Sepulveda by the entrance to the freeway and Washington Place.
Melissa Sanders discussed the socio -emotional police dog available to visit offices; Mental Hea lth Awareness month in May; the Pancake Breakfast; the need to look at vacant
commercial spaces to reimagine housing in the City; the important missing-middle housing issue; major issues in CCUSD; a recent gun incident on campus; unlicensed vendors being l eft alone with children on campus; and she encouraged people to attend School Board meetings.
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Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
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Order of the Agenda
Item R-6 was heard before Item R -5; A-4 was heard before the Consent Calendar; and Item C-14 was removed from the agenda.
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The following Item was considered out of sequence:
Action Items
Item A-4
CC - Creation of an Ad Hoc Bill Botts Fields and Veterans Memorial Park Feasibility Study City Council Subcommittee and Appointment of Two Councilmembers Thereto
Jesse Mays, Assistant City Manager, provided a summary of the staff report.
June 12, 2023
9 Council Members indicated interest in serving.
Council Member Eriksson moved that the City Council create the Ad Hoc Bill Botts Fields and Veterans Memorial Park Feasibility Study City Council Subcommittee and Council Member O’Brien seconded the motion.
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Marci Baun was hoping that more information would be available to the public; she agreed that the two parks needed to be redone; she was encouraged by the progress; and she expressed
appreciation to Council Members and the City for their efforts.
Jeannine Wisnosky Stehlin felt that the City needed modern parks and the feasibility study was necessary; noted the need to support other City activities besides sports; and she agreed that Veterans Park was heavily used and needed to meet the requirements of a modern City.
Discussion ensued regarding support for addition al investment in parks; the importance of taking an equitable approach and looking at all parks to assess needs and make decisions based on information gathering; the recommendation of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services (PRCS) Commission; concern with taking an inequitable approach by singling out two parks without any data; the diversity of parks cited by speakers during previous consideration; the importance of providing modern and accessible greenspace; the need for data and community involveme nt; the Master Parks Plan; regional vs. neighborhood parks; playing fields; community participation; the goal to fast-track the two parks that serve the widest net of the community; the uniqueness of services provided; the need to start the process now to get them online by 2028; use of Fox Hills Park; the way people experience the community; the opportunity to have data and community engagement; the choice being made; and the lack of data to support statements regarding usage.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON AND SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA THAT
THE CITY COUNCIL CREATE AN AD HOC BILL BOTTS FIELD AND VETERANS
MEMORIAL PARK FEASIBILITY STUDY AND CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE AND APPOINT MAYOR VERA AND COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN THERETO.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
June 12, 2023
10 AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: MCMORRIN
ABSTAIN: PUZA
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Consent Calendar
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported a request to remove Item C-14 from the agenda.
Item C-1
CC:HA:SA - Approval of Cash Disbursements for May 13, 2023 to June 2, 2023
Lisa Soghor, Chief Financial Officer, reported a typographical error on the cover memo that went with the approval of cash disbursements and clarified that the grand total should read $8,397,432.13 in the small written sentence below the chart.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, indicated that the correction had been made to the hard copy.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR MAY 13, 2023 TO JUNE 2, 2023.
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Item C-2
CC:HA:SA - Approval of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meetings on May 15, 2023, May 16, 2023, and May 22, 2023
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE MINUTE S FOR THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS ON MAY 16, 2023, MAY 17, 2023, AND MAY 22, 2023.
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June 12, 2023
11 Item C-3
CC - Approval of Amendments to Existing On-Call Agreements with AZ Construction, DBA Ace Fence, Fleming Environmental, Ron’s Maintenance, Pumpman Inc., AM PM Door, Inc., Schindler Elevator Corporation, Siemens Industry, Inc., Duthie Power Service s, Duke’s Root Control, Inc., Commercial Door of LA County, Inc., and Grundfos CBS, Inc., for Various Maintenance Services to Extend the Term of Each Agreement through June 30, 2024 and Increase the Aggregate Not -to-Exceed Amount by an Additional $504,000 for all Agreements Combined
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE AMENDMENTS TO EXISTING ON -CALL AGREEMENTS WITH AZ CONSTRUCTION, DBA ACE FENCE, FLEMING ENVIRONMENTAL, RON’S MAINTENANCE, PUMPMAN INC., SAFETY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS INC., AM PM DOOR, INC., SCHINDLER ELEVATOR CORPORATION, SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC., DUTHIE POWER SERVICES, DUKE’S ROOT CONTROL, INC., COMMERCIAL DOOR OF LA COUNTY, INC., AND GRUNDFOS CBS, INC. FOR
VARIOUS MAINTENANCE SERVICES, TO EXTEND THE TERM OF EACH AGREEMENT THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024 AND INCREASE THE AGGREGATE NOT- TO-EXCEED AMOUNT BY A N ADDITIONAL $504,000 FOR ALL AGREEMENTS COMBINED; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-4
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Establishing an Initial Permit Application Fee and an Annual Permit Renewal Fee for Retail Establishments Engaged in the Business of Selling, Leasing or Otherwise Transferring Firearms and Ammunition in the City of Culver City, Pur suant to Culver City Municipal Code Chapter
11.19 Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
June 12, 2023
12 Megan Oddsen expressed for support of the permitting and security ordinance application and renewal fee; she thanked City staff and the City Council for the time and energy dedicated to moving ahead with the ordinance; she asked that the City continue making progress on the issue; and hoped for continued support of common sense gun safety regulations.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding determination of the fees; the actions of other cities; the need to justify all costs; and clarification that fees are to cover the costs of providing services.
Mayor Vera exited the dais.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AN
INITIAL PERMIT APPLICATION FEE AND AN ANNUAL PERMIT RENEWAL FEE
FOR ESTABLISHMENTS ENGAGED IN THE BUSINESS OF SELLING, LEASING
OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRING FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION IN THE CITY, TO RECOVER COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CITY’S ADMINISTRATION OF CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 11.19.
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Item C-5
CC - Approval of an Application for $32,346.02 in Grant Funds through the Fiscal Year 2023 Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership
Vice Mayor McMorrin invited public comment:
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Janeé Lennox expressed opposition to adding any more money to the CCPD budget; noted that me mbers of the community did not have police vests when they were shot and killed by the police; she pointed out that CCPD already had that equipment; and she proposed that the time and effort spent on the item be directed somewhere else.
Mayor Vera returned to the dais.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the need for the equipment; the grant application; new vests for new officers; and replacement vests when they wear out.
June 12, 2023
13 THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $32,346.02 THROUGH THE FY 2023 DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE PATRICK LEAHY BULLETPROOF VEST PARTNERSHIP; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-6
CC - Approval of Professional Services Agreement with MGE Engineering in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $199,320 for Preliminary Engineering Design Services for Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program (BPMP) for Overland Avenue/Ballona Creek, Duquesne Avenue/Ballona Creek, and Washington Boulevard/Ballona Creek, Federal Aid Project No. BPMPL 5240(037); and (2) Authorization to the P ublic Works Director/City Engineer to Approve
Amendment(s) to the Agreement in an Additional Amount Not -to- Exceed $29,898 (15%)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MGE
ENGINEERING FOR PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE
BRIDGE PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM (BPMP) OVERLAND, DUQUESNE, WASHINGTON BRIDGES OVER BALLONA CREEK, BPMPL 5240(037) IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $199,320; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE
AMENDMENT(S) TO THE AGREEMENT IN AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT NOT -TO- EXCEED $29,898 (15%); AND
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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June 12, 2023
14 Item C-7
CC - Ratification of Acceptance of $70,910.35 in Grant Funds Received from the State of California -State & Community Corrections Wellness and Mental Health Grant Program
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following member of the public was called to speak:
Marci Baun was called to speak and declined.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding making information on the curriculum and instructors available to the public prior to approval; the unsolicited grant awarded to all cities in t he state; research to be done regarding utilization of the funding; identification of programming; abiding by purchasing and reporting requirements; public review; the opportunity for City Council review before implementation; internal programming; appropr iateness of making the program available for public review; the primary service provider; use of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist; and adhering to grant requirements.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: RATIFY THE ACCEPTANCE OF $70,910.35 IN
GRANT FUNDS RECEIVED FROM THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA -STATE & COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS WELLNESS AND MENTAL HEALTH GRANT PROGRAM.
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Item C-8
CC - (1) Approval of a One-Year Professional Services Agreement with S Groner Associates for Educational Outreach for
Environmental Programs and Operations Initiatives in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $60,000; and (2) Authorization to the City Manager to Approve Amendments to the Agreement for Two Additional One- Year Terms at $60,000 Annually
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A ONE-YEAR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH SGA IN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $60,000 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO APPROVE TWO ADDITIONAL ONE - YEAR TERMS AT $60,000 ANNUALLY; AND,
June 12, 2023
15 3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-9
CC - Approval of the Continuance of the City's Sustainable Business Certification Program in Fiscal Year 2023/2024 in the Amount of $110,000
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE THE CONTINUANCE OF THE SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS CERTIFICATION PROGRAM IN FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024 IN THE AMOUNT OF $110,000.
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Item C-10
CC - Approval of Five -Year Agreement with A3 Visual (DBA AAA Flag & Banner) for Banner Installation and Removal Services in an Amount Not -to-Exceed $50,000 Annually from July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2028
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH A3 VISUAL (DBA AAA FLAG &
BANNER) FOR BANNER INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL IN AN AMOUNT NOT - TO-EXCEED $50,000 ANNUALLY, FROM JULY 1, 2023 - JUNE 30, 2028; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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June 12, 2023
16 Item C-11
CC - (1) Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Three (3) Year Memorandum of Understanding with the Culver City Management Group (CCMG) for the Period of July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2026; (2) Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Three (3) Year Memorandum of Understan ding with the Culver City Employees’ Association (CCEA) for the Period of July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2026; and (3) Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Amended Executive Compensation Plan for the Period of July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2026
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A THREE -YEAR MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING WITH THE CITY OF CULVER CITY AND THE CULVER CITY MANAGEMENT GROUP FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2023 - JUNE 30, 2026; AND,
2. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A THREE-YEAR MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING WITH THE CITY OF CULVER CITY AND THE CULVER CITY EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2023 - JUNE 30, 2026; AND,
3. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A THREE -YEAR EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2023 - JUNE 30, 2026.
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Item C-12
CC - (1) Approval of the Recommendations for Vendor Criteria for Fiesta La Ballona; and (2) Clarification of the Role of the Fiesta La Ballona Committee in Relationship to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services for the Planning and Production of the Fiesta La Ballona Event
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following member of the public was called to speak:
Lila Swenson, Fiesta La Ballona Committee Member speaking on behalf of herself, discussed years of public comment and the request of the Committee to curate vendor content; accepting vendors on a first come, first served basis; Constitutional requirements; she proposed doing research into what is actually June 12, 2023
17 allowed; she objected to the process; discussed the subcommittee created to advise the City Council; vendor vetting procedures created by staff that were disregarded; disrespect to the staff and the bodies involved; and she asked the City Council to reconsider their recommendation.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the process for vendor selection; the mix of 75% non -profit organizations and 25% commercial organizations; opening up applications to all 501c organizations; the Subcommittee recommendation; usage of the IRS definition of non-profit; tax exempt organizations under the Internal Revenue Code;
objectively defining non -profits for the 75% portion of the vendors; and clarification on types of organizations included in the 75% category.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE RECOMMENDATION FOR VENDOR CRITERIA FOR FIESTA LA BALLONA AS DETAILED IN THE STAFF REPORT; AND,
2. CLARIFY THAT THE ROLE OF THE FIESTA LA BALLONA COMMITTEE IS
TO BE ADVISORY AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES FOR THE DEPARTMENT’S PLANNING AND PRODUCTION OF THE EVENT.
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Item C-13
CC - Approval of the City Council Ad Hoc 2028 Summer Olympics Preparation Subcommittee Workplan
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the impacts of the Olympics; the need for improvements to the bus system and public transit overall; updates to short -term housing policies; purview; the Short-Term Rental Subcommittee; the Mobi lity and Transportation Subcommittee of the City Council; global policy initiatives; and Brown Act implications.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE THE CITY COUNCIL AD HOC 2028 SUMMER OLYMPICS PREPARATION SUBCOMMITTEE WORKPLAN.
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June 12, 2023
18 Item C-14
CC - Consideration of the Equity and Human Relations Advisory Committee’s Request and Recommendation to City Council to Approve and Adopt the Pamphlet Entitled “Recognizing and Preventing Harassment and Discrimination,” for Distribution to the Public, to City Council and to All City Commissions, Boards and Committees
This item was pulled from the agenda.
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Item C-15
CC - Approval of a Modification to the Previously Approved Professional Service Agreement with Urban Alchemy as Lead Supportive Service Provider and Operator for the 20 Suites/Tents Service-Enriched Safe Sleep Program Located at the City -Owned Virginia Avenue Parking Lot to Modify the Time of Performance to the 12-Month Period of July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 and Re duce the Not -to-Exceed Amount of the Contra ct to $3,099,077
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following member of the public was called to speak:
Kelli Estes noted that $3 million is a significant amount of money for an organization that pays minimum wages and does not have a great track record; expressed concern with a lack of defined accountability; felt that the program was not
sustainable long-term; discussed many infrastructure p rograms that have been deferred; raising taxes; and hoped that the Safe Camping program would help people , would not be needed long - term, and that the county would provide the services that they are supposed to.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE MODIFICATIONS TO THE PREVIOUSLY APPROVED PROFESSIONAL
SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH URBAN ALCHEMY AS LEAD SUPPORTIVE SERVICE PROVIDER AND OPERATOR FOR THE 20 SUITES/TENTS SERVICE -ENRICHED
SAFE SLEEP PROGRAM LOCATED AT THE CITY -OWNED VIRGINIA AVENUE PARKING LOT TO MODIFY THE TIME OF PERFORMANCE FROM 15-MONTHS TO 12-MONTHS FOR THE PERIOD JULY 1, 2023 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024 AND June 12, 2023
19 REDUCE THE NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF THE CONTRACT TO $3,3,099,077; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
MOVED BY MAYOR VERA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE ITEMS C -1 THROUGH C-4, C-6, C-8 THROUGH C-13, AND C-15 WITH A NOTE THAT C-12 HAD A CHANGE FROM THE STAFF REPORT TO ALIGN THE DEFINITION OF NON-PROFIT WITH THE IRS DEFINITION.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE ITEM C-5.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, PUZA, VERA
NOES: MCMORRIN
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMEBR O’BRIEN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE ITEM C-7.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: MCMORRIN, PUZA
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Public Hearings
Item PH-1
CC:SA:HA:PA - PUBLIC HEARING: (1) Adoption of a City Council Resolution Approving and Adopting the Annual Appropriations Limit for Fiscal Year 2023 -2024; (2) Adoption of Respective Resolutions Adopting the Fiscal Year 2023 -2024 Budget for the City of Culver City, the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency, the Culver City Housing Authority, and the Culver City Parking Authority; (3) Adoption of a Resolution Approving Salary Schedules for Miscellaneous Employees, Police Safety Employees and Fire Safety Employees Effective July 1, 2023; (4) Adoption of a Resolution Amending City Council Policy June 12, 2023
20 Statement 5002 (Financial Policies); and (5) Authorization of the Fiscal Year 2022 -2023 Capital Improvement Program Project Completion and Close Out Summary
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER E RIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
PUZA AND UNANIMOUSLY C ARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Lisa Soghor, Chief Financial Officer, provided a summary of the material of record; noted a correction to a minor typographical error; discussed software issues with the budget program; and General Fund corrections.
Mayor Vera indicated that after consultation with the City Attorney, it was determined that a conflict of interest did not exist for him with regard to the police salary schedule and the Police Chief contract.
Mayor Vera invited public comment:
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Stephen Jones discussed the response of the Mayor and City Manager to public comment pointing out budget cuts that painted commenters with a lack of credibility; he expressed appreciation that the cuts were identified and reversed in the adjustment list; noted millions of dollars in corrections; expressed concern with the indignant response to public comment asking legitimate questions; he asserted that the budget was hostile to budget disclosure and to public input; discussed meeting time; credibility; the planned vote on a new policy to funnel money to a special Public Safety fund; ensuring that CCPD gets more and more money; increases to the CCPD budget over the last decade; lack of accountability on police spending; the 20% increase since 2021; he asked that the budget be cut, the financial policy be rejected, and the budget process be fixed; expressed support for participatory budgeting; and he proposed that the 2024 budget should be being considered now.
Kelli Estes expressed opposition to the new Housing Department running the Street Medicine trial; discussed the monthly visit by the county paid for by the City with tax dollars; asserted that the Housing Department was a duplication of County Health June 12, 2023
21 Services which Culver City taxpayers fund; discussed the need for voter approval of monies spent on less than 2% of the population; lack of results; and the need for measurable success.
Margaret Peters expressed concern about the budget; discussed the need to upgrade parks, pave alleyways, work on bike lanes, and address storm water; money spent on CCPD; CCPD staffing; the murder rate across the country vs. in Culver City;
insufficient parks programs; fe armongering in the media; and she encouraged the City to imagine a better world in the budget by funding a livable City.
Michael Prudent provided background on himself; expressed support for the CCPD budget; discussed CCPD response time; successful protection of residents; and wanted to see improved treatment of minorities in the community.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
PUZA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding support for redefining the Cultural Affairs position and adding it to the motion with an increase to $146,645; appreciation for the work done on the budget; acknowledgement of work still to be done on the budget; meeting time; the budget as a reflection of values; community involvement; the CCPD budget; relieving CCPD of responsibilities that they are not trained for; allowing sufficient time to solve crime; dealing with mental health services and the unhoused popu lation; traffic stops;
investigating the root causes of poverty and crime and then investing resources and services to fill in those gaps; disproportionate affects to Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), low-income people, trans, and gender non -conforming; holding the budget accountable to outcomes; impacts to new services for the unhoused population on the CCPD workload; prevention; the need for transparency with the budget;
compromise for a more equitable budget; suggested updates including creatin g a catalytic converter theft prevention program, following state RIPA recommendations for 2023-2024 to align with the internal directive to remove CCPD from low-level traffic infraction enforcement , eliminating all pretextual stops and subsequent searches, ensuring that stops are based on reasonable suspicion and probable cause, and approv ing a participatory budget process; Policy 5002; eligible use of the Facilities Planning Reserve; the Replacement Reserve; planning June 12, 2023
22 ahead for major capital replacements; use of funds for lifesaving equipment rather than for weapons and vehicles; Policy 5003; updating the policy for recreational services; and increasing the amount of revenue going into the reserve.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Me mbers regarding reflecting the values of the City; high approval for CCPD and CCFD; support for the balance over the years; line items that not everyone supports; competing interests; the balance worked out between the City Council and staff; building funds to maintain and replace buildings and equipment within the Recreation Department; reluctance to increase program costs; concern with deficit spending; money put into the Housing and Homeless Department; local return; tracking down county and Proposition H monies; paying for programs already started; Capital Improvements; and support for the budget with the Cultural Affairs staffing amendment.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the diverse community with differing values; choices in spending allocation; status quo that yield s the same outcomes; the fact that not everyone’s needs in the community are being met; appreciation for the leadership of former Council Member Alex Fisch in the creation of the Housing and Human Services Department; community advocacy that led to amendments; the need to do more to ensure that the entire community has needed resources; continued allocation of resources to CCPD more than any other department while the City faces a structural deficit; identification of opportunities to shift away non - essential roles from CCPD; taking a financially prudent path forward; ways for the community to be safe; implementation of the Mobile Crisis Unit that was funded in 2021; deployment of mediation teams; anima l control; innovative ways to find solutions to needs; greenspaces; investment in parks to improve mental health; housing at all income levels; ensuring safe streets; alternative modes of transit; cars as the number one killer of children 14 and under; flaws in the budget; the need for additional community engagement; support for having a participatory budgeting process; educating residents; the need to question the way community resources are utilized; the ability for the City to have a community-centered, data-driven budget process; the obligation to meet the needs of all community members; concerns with the current budget; and the need to listen to the concerns of all community members.
June 12, 2023
23 Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the inability to pay for the Cultural Affairs position out of the Art Fund, and taking resolutions separately
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON , SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AND BOARDS: ADOPT RESPECTIVE RESOLUTIONS APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 BUDGET FOR THE
CITY OF CULVER CITY, SUCCESSOR AGENCY, HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND PARKING AUTHORITY WITH THE ADJUSTMENT OF $146,645 TO FUND A CULTURAL AFFAIRS STAFF POSITION FOR ONE YEAR.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: MCMORRIN, PUZA
Council Member Puza received clarification regarding updates to Policy 5002.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SALARY
SCHEDULE FOR MISCELLANEOUS EMPLOYEES, POLICE SAFETY EMPLOYEES, AND FIRE SAFETY EMPLOYEES EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2023.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, PUZA, VERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: MCMORRIN
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION AMENDING CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT 5002 (FINANCIAL POLICIES).
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: PUZA, MCMORRIN
ABSTAIN: NONE
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
June 12, 2023
24 AUTHORIZE THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROJECT COMPLETION AND CLOSE OUT SUMMARY.
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Item PH-2
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Assessment and Ordering the Levy for the Sewer User’s Service Charge for Fiscal Year 2023/2024
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF NOTICES.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, reported no requests to speak had been received.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY OF THE SEWER USER’S SERVICE CHARGE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024.
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Item PH-3
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Annual Assessment Levy for Benefit Assessment District West Washington Boulevard No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2023/2024
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF NOTICES.
June 12, 2023
25 MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, reported no requests to speak.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT
A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICT WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD NO. 1 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024.
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Item PH-4
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Annual Assessment Levy for Benefit Assessment District West Washington Boulevard No. 2 for Fiscal Year 2023/2024
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF NOTICES.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, reported no requests to speak.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICT WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD NO. 2 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024.
June 12, 2023
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Item PH-5
Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Annual Assessment Levy for Benefit Assessment District West Washington Boulevard No. 3 for Fiscal Year 2023/2024
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF NOTICES.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
ERIKSSON AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
T’Ana Allen, Deputy City Clerk, reported no requests to speak.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION
CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICT WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD NO. 3 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024.
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Action Items
Item A-1
CC - (1) Discussion of the Use of Funds Under the County of Los Angeles Permanent Local Housing Allocation Year 3 Grant Program; (2) If Desired, Adoption of a Resolution Approving Participation in the Local Housing Allocation Program and Authorizing the City Manager to Sign an Agreement With the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA); and (3) Direction to the City Manager as Deemed Appropriate
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
June 12, 2023
27 The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Jeannine Wisnosky Stehlin discussed eligible uses for the grant; allocation for eligible programs; the ambitious commitment to support programming to meet the needs of those experiencing homelessness; and she recommended using the grant to fund services and programs that the City is building in terms of rental assistance and supportive case management.
Melissa Sanders wanted to see more programming for residents experiencing a hard time such as for those experiencing domestic violence; she proposed providing subsidies for people to stay in the City and keep their children in school here; and she wanted to see support for true community residents.
Tevis Barnes, Housing and Human Services Director , provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the department recommendation; support for funding rental assistance; keeping people in their homes; allowing housing assistance for one year; case work; balancing the two programs; appreciation to staff for their efforts and to the public for their comments; the Motel Master Leasing Program; moving people forward through a continuum of care; area cities with successful guaranteed income programs; seniors as the most at-risk population; offering agency to people in how to spend their resources; paternalism in programs; percentage of income spent on housing; offering assistance for targeted groups; clarification that money would be paid directly to the property owner; freeing up income for other needs; and support for the judgement of staff in determining where money is most needed.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR MCMORRIN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING PARTICIPATION IN THE LOCAL
HOUSING ALLOCATION PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
SIGN AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (LACDA); AND
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/APPROVE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
June 12, 2023
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Item A-2
CC - (1) Discussion of Options to Pave Unpaved Alleyways Citywide; and (2) Direction to the Public Works Director as Deemed Appropriate
Yanni Demitri, Public Works Director, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Marci Baun was called to speak but did not respond.
Jeannine Wisnosky Stehlin discussed difficulty with dirt alleyways during the rain; the actions of Los Angeles city and county to pave alleys in conjunction with community members; work with non-profits; stormwater capture; she expressed support for paving the alley ways; and proposed prioritizing alleyways that are most used and closest to the schools.
Bryan Sanders expressed appreciation to staff for looking at the issue; discussed efforts to address the alleyway behind his home for many years; usage of Elenda Street near the school; responsibility of the City to cover costs; and property damage caused by the way the City chose to maintain the alleys.
Abbas Eftekhari presented photographs of the alley behind United Dental Care on Sepulveda Boulevard, and he provided a petition signed by tenants and the property owner in favor of having the alleyway paved.
Earl Trusty was called to speak but had provided comments earlier in the meeting.
Melissa Sanders expressed support for having the City take responsibility for paving the alleys; discussed thoughtful consideration in addressing the issue; rainwater capture; pipes; making homes safer; dangerous behavior; and she asked the City to consider offering homeowners a faster way to get an easement to make a great space.
June 12, 2023
29 Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the Pavement Condition Index (PCI); use for travel to and from City services; City responsibility; the limited budget and unpredictable financial future; areas of the City waiting for services; looking at how items in the City are prioritized; creation of a metric for prioritization; spreading the work out over five years; absorbing costs in the annual Capital
Improvement budget; allowing neighborhoods to form their own assessment districts to ex pedite the process; spreading out costs in assessments in property taxes over 20 -30 years; fine particulate matter with dirt in the air; puddles after the rain; mosquitos; use of Measure W funds to help mitigate costs; the need to address the public right-of-ways; the budget; interest of the property owners in getting the issue addressed;
willingness of property owners to form a district and pay for the work to be done; addressing the issue over 7 -8 years; knowledge of the back alley when property is purchased; the fact that only four alleys on the list have an above failing grade on the pavement index; prioritizing by condition or traffic level; community involvement; collaboration with Public Works; origin of the existing paved alleyways; lack of precedent for paying to pave the alleys; public usage of the alleys; the inability to restrict usage; equity; people who address the City Council; examining how money is spent; someone who died in a crosswalk last summer in Fox Hills; routine bike theft in Rain Tree; ensuring that people get around safely; prevention; protected bike lanes; concerns of different communities; communities elevated by the City Council; building coalitions; how issues are approached that affect all neighborhoods; prioritizing certain issues over others; the need for critical consideration; safety concerns across the City; consideration of the issue by the Mobility Subcommittee; looking at who gets the resources; equity; p ower a nd privilege; buy -in from homeowners; investment in overall property values; the
investment in Veterans Park; allocation of resources; lack of consensus on options provided by staff; creation of a new body vs. referring the issue to the existing subcommittee;
collaboration with the Public Works Department; and a different conversation to be had regarding taking a comprehensive look at how Public Works projects are addressed.
MOVED BY COU NCIL MEMBER O’BRIEN , SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DIRECT CONSIDERATION OF PAVING ALLEYWAYS IN THE CITY TO THE MOBILITY SUBCOMMITTEE.
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June 12, 2023
30 Item A-3
CC – (1) Appointment of Jason Sims as Police Chief; and (2) Approval of an Executive Employment Agreement Confirming such Appointment
Dana Anderson, Human Resources Director, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Marci Baun was called to speak but did not respond.
Kelli Estes congratulated Police Chief Sims on his appointment; she welcomed new officers; and she asserted that any negative comments did not reflect the sentiment of the majority of the City.
Denise Neal congratulated Police Chief Sims; she thanked him for his accessibility to the community and for being willing to listen; expressed hope that he and CCPD officers would remain safe and able to serve the community well; discussed work on a Community Policing Center; and Coffee with a Cop.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding support for the appointment; appreciation to Chief Sims for his history in the community; the weight of managing the department; disagreement with a previous public comment that all community members are align ed with the budget; the disconnect; the way people internalize community comment; appreciation for the police; the budget; attempts to create a bridge with a basic compromise; criteria for analysis; the powerful and difficult position; ensuring a right fit; moving toward using the budget to invest in people and community alternatives to policing; prevention; de-escalation of military -like equipment; concern with doubling down on solutions that do not deliver desired outcomes; creation of a Public Safety system that works for all and incorporates how the City invests in the community; inside vs. outside recruitment; continuing positive development of the department; the young police force that is open to new ways of community policing; support within Culver City for Jason Sims; and the experience of Manhattan Beach.
Council Member Eriksson moved to appoint Jason Sims as Police Chief.
June 12, 2023
31 Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding divesting resources from the pol ice and investing resources into the community; the importance of transparency and accountability; making data -driven choices; a study from Yale’s Institution for Social and Policy Studies in 2021; lack of positive impacts of body-worn cameras on police use of force, civilian complaints, other judicial activities and outcomes; allocation of more resources to body worn cameras; a study indicating a lack of improvement in citizen police trust, citizen cooperation with police, or reduction in crime in cities studied; statistics indicating that most people in jail make less than $20,000 annually; poverty; not meeting the basic needs of the community; the fact that putting people prison has not increased safety; costs to everyone of putting people in jail; a quote from Mariam Kaba on reform; the history of oppression; the need for commitment to creating safety by making
transformational demands that erode the power, reach, and resources of police; making a commitment to finding ways to be safe; finding a partner that does not always advocate for more and more money; the fact that increased investment has not resulted in decreased crime; data and facts; the shared commitment to keep everyone in the community safe; the amount of the budget request; leadership through difficult times as Assistant Chief; qualifications; the importance of keeping the lines of communication open; and being open to feedback and direction.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON AND SECONDED BY MAYOR VERA THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPOINT JASON SIMS AS THE POLICE CHIEF; AND,
2. APPROVE AN EXECUTIVE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT CONFIRMING MR.
SIMS’ APPOINTMENT AS POLICE CHIEF; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: MCMORRIN, PUZA
June 12, 2023
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Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Vera invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Denise Neal asked whether there could be public meetings on the future budget; noted recent discussions by the Westside Council of Governments and the Southern California Association of Governments about different Measures; discussed parks; the Olympics; addressing homelessness; the need for better law enforcement; making things happen with information; and getting everyone on board as a community.
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Items from Council Members
None.
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Council Member Requests to Agendize Future Items
None.
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June 12, 2023
33 Adjournment
There being no further business , at 10:58 p.m., the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority, Redevelopment Financing Authority, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned to a special meeting to be held on June 21, 2023.
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Jeremy Bocchino
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council and SECRETARY of the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Housing Authority Board, and Culver City Parking Authority, Culver City, California
ALBERT VERA
MAYOR of Culver City, California and CHAIR of the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board,
Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Housing
Authority Board, and Culver City Parking Authority
Date: _________________________