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 July 8, 2024
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 McMorrin called the regular meeting of 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 to order at 6:04 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall.
Mayor McMorrin announced that at least a portion of the consolidated meeting would be conducted pursuant to California Government Code Section 54953 in that Council Member Eriksson would be participating by speaker phone, in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and his teleconference location ha d been identified in the notice and agenda for the meeting.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, received clarification from Council Member Eriksson that he could hear the meeting clearly; he had a copy of the agenda for the meeting; a copy of the agenda was posted at his location; there were no members of the public present at Council Member Eriksso n’s location; she asked any member of the City Council to speak up if they were not able to hear Council Member Eriksson; no Council Member indicated that they could not hear Council Member Eriksson, nor did they indicate that there was any reason to doubt that was Council Member Eriksson taking part in the teleconference; and she indicated that all votes would be taken by roll call during the meeting.
July 8, 2024
2 Present: Yasmine-Imani McMorrin, Mayor
Daniel O’Brien, Vice Mayor
Göran Eriksson, Council Member
Freddy Puza, Council Member
Albert Vera, Council Member
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Closed Session
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, indicated that no public comment had been received for Closed Session items.
Heather Baker, City Attorney, indicated that Item CS-2 would be postponed to the August 12, 2024 meeting.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRI EN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL, CULVER CITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, CULVER CITY PARKING AUT HORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION.
At 6:09 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 Item:
CS-1 CC - Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation Re: Linda Soper v. City of Culver City
Case No. 23SMCV05426
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Item CS-2 was postponed to August 12, 2024.
CS-2 CC - Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation (1 Item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
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July 8, 2024
3 Reconvene
Mayor McMorrin reconvened the meeting of the City Council for recognition presentations at 6:58 p.m. with five Council Members participating.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported that Council Member Eriksson was participating by teleconference and he had indicated that he could hear the proceedings.
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Recognition Presentation
Item R-1
CC – A Proclamation in Honor of July as “Parks Make Life Better!” Month
Mayor McMorrin presented a Proclamation in honor of “Parks Make Life Better!” Month.
Ted Stevens, Parks, Recreation and Community Services Director, expressed appreciation for the recognition; thanked staff and Commissioners for their support; noted that the department touched all nine City Council priorities; and he felt that they were one of the most important departments in Culver City.
Jane Leonard , Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission Chair, thanked the City Council and community on behalf of the Commission noting the amazing programs being offered.
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Regular Session
Mayor McMorrin convened the regular meeting of the City Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board, Culver City Financing Authority, Culver City Parking Authority and Culver City Housing Authority Board at 7:04 p.m. with five Council Members p resent (Council Member Eriksson participated in the meeting remotely).
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July 8, 2024
4 Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor McMorrin led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, received clarification that Council Member Eriksson could still hear everything.
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Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Heather Baker, City Attorney, indicated nothing to report out of Closed Session except that Item CS-2 had been postponed to the August 12, 2024 meeting.
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Community Announcements by Members/Information Items from Staff
Council Member Vera thanked the Downtown Business Association (DBA) and the sponsors for their work on the successful drone fireworks show on July 5; reported attending the opening of K&L Wines; thanked the participants of Pride Ride; discussed attending the State of the City Address for Inglewood; synergy and collaboration; community participation in the Olympics; and he indicated that he would forward information to the Olympics Subcommittee.
Council Member Puza discussed the Pride Ride; Disability Pride Day on July 23; the recently released Hate Crimes Report; work to be done to build a safe and inclusive Culver City for all; the Anti-Hate series; and he thanked the DBA for the successful drone fireworks event.
Vice Mayor O’Brien discussed the Pride Ride; the drone fireworks show; the virtual Culver City Age-Friendly Action Plan meeting on July 10; the Summer Concert Series on Thursdays until July 29; the free compost giveaway on July 13 at Culver City Park; and he encouraged everyone to attend the free Culver City Public Theater performance on July 13 at Carlson Park.
Mayor McMorrin thanked everyone for their efforts on Pride Ride, the drone fireworks show, Bystander Intervention Training, and Juneteenth; encouraged people to attend the Age-Friendly Action Plan meeting and the Summer Concert Series; discussed Supervisor Holly Mitchell’s Book Club at the Village Well on July 29; Minority Mental Health Month in July; being the source f or July 8, 2024
5 better mental health; county resources; the Mobile Crisis Team; Disability Pride Month; and she invited comment about
Juneteenth.
Latrice Gwin, Founder of United Empowerment Foundation, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate on the Juneteenth event; discussed the family activity area; the community Juneteenth mural illustrated by Marti Mannings; and she expressed eagerness for continued collaboration and opportunities to serve.
Marti Mannings expressed appreciation for being able t o lead the mural project.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported that Item A -2 would be postponed to August 12, 2024.
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Presentations
Item P-1
Presentation by the TransLatin@ Coalition, Regarding Support of LGBTQA Residents and Neighbors
Byron Jose, TransLatin@ Coalition, discussed the mission of the organization and ways to support LGBTQA residents and neighbors.
Bee Curiel, TransLatin@ Coalition, provided background on th e organization; discussed their mission, values, and vision; services, resources, and programs; and training.
Byron Jose, TransLatin@ Coalition, discussed policy and advocacy; referrals; different populations served; community engagement; county initiatives; reports and briefings; the Unmet Needs Letter; coordination of care and services; AB2218; the California TGI (Transgender, Gender No nconforming, and Intersex) Wellness and E quity Fund; recommendations from the survey to improve quality of life for trans and nonbinary people in Los Angeles County; and investment in services for TGI populations and the rest of LGBT communities.
Discussion ensued between TransLatin@ Coalition
representatives, staff, and Council Members regarding
appreciation for the presentation; support for offering services with cultural competency; working with cities to create more July 8, 2024
6 inclusive spaces; use of Peer Navigators; report backs; training for city em ployees; problem solving; people coming to West Hollywood seeking a safe haven; quarterly reports; the three year contract; staffing; costs; funding; pilot programs; demographics; education; the importance of the needed service; connecting through parks; t he over 50 population; providing a toolbox for cities; using a referral process through the parks and the Mobile Crisis Team; gaging community need; leveraging services with county services; providing a trans-specific lens; appreciation for the work being done; the importance of providing a safe space; the 2024 Anti -Trans Bills Tracker; increased need in the current climate; harm and risk of violence; impacts to workload; trends; compounding issues; housing; hate crimes; violence; visible targets; intention al investment; discrimination; providing services to prevent homelessness; HIV prevention; tying housing vouchers to disease; the need to continue to support the work; the Racial Equity Action Plan (REAP); marginalization; the intersection between race, se xuality, ability, and religion; ARDI (Anti-Racism Diversity Initiative); acting as Trusted Messengers; listening sessions; surveys; specific trainings; whether work is being done without the involvement of TransLatin@ Coalition; county hiring of LGBTQA individuals; backlash with increased pride celebrations; openness of the libraries to LGBTQ individuals; the need for support all year around rather than just for a week and a day; being actively anti-racist, actively inclusive, and actively diverse; intentional investment; and addressing the legacy of exclusion.
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Joint Public Comment – Items NOT on the Agenda
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, read the City Council statement regarding hate speech.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Robin Ruth Prince was called to speak but was not present online or in Council Chambers.
Louise Reichlin, Los Angeles Choreographers and Dancers, provided background on the organization and discussed their mission; expressed appreciation for the Culver City Arts Grant; discussed their upcoming performance at Ivy Substation; past July 8, 2024
7 performances; and she noted that information was available on the Culver City website.
Darrel Menthe, Downtown Business Association (DBA), expressed gratitude to everyone for their efforts and attendance of the Independence Day drone show; reported the largest -ever crowd; and he thanked everyone for being willing to embrace change.
Loretta Loraine provided background on herself; discussed the Culver City transgender community; the conserv ative nature of Culver City; the need for services; people who struggle; and transgender people living in the shadows.
Melissa Sanders expressed appreciation and support for the Independence Day drone fireworks show; discussed the Circulator; the need to think outside of the box for housing; repurposing properties; empty spaces; and providing affordable housing alternatives to bring people into Culver City.
Eric Sims , Center Theater Group and Kirk Douglas Theater, thanked the DBA for the drone fireworks show; discussed previous productions; the next planned production; use of street pole banners; and he requested that the City Council agendize consideration of a marketing sponsorship for Cat Kid Comic Club:
the Musical.
Marci Baun expressed appreciation for being appointed to serve Culver City as a Commissioner on the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission; thanked the business community for the drone fir eworks show; discussed walking and riding around Culver City; patchwork street conditions; and she noted the need to concentrate on what to fix rather than what to add.
Jim Clarke, Culver City Sister City Committee, reported that discussions regarding ent ering into Sister City relationships with Swakopmund, Namibia and Uddevalla Sweden were ongoing; discussed a letter exchange between Culver City students and Uddevalla students; communication between Sister City
leadership and the Mayor of Uddevalla; and he indicated that in the near future they would be requesting that the City Council agendize consideration of approving Ud devalla as the newest Sister City.
Matt Inouye, TransLatin@ Coalition, expressed appreciation for the meaningful engagement; discussed engagement between cities and non-profits; the state of the emergency being experienced by the TGI community; increased anti -transgender crimes; July 8, 2024
8 violence; the critical moment; care coordination; training; stepping up for LGBTQA communities; appreciation for the visit by Mayor McMorrin and Council Member Puza to their center; and follow up to see how a relationship could be fostered.
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Receipt of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED BY 3:00 P.M. ON JULY 8, 2024.
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Order of the Agenda
Item CS-2 and Item A-2 were postponed to a future agenda, and Items C-3, C-4, C-5, C-6 and C-11 were considered separately.
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Consent Calendar
Item C-1
CC:HA:SA - Approval of Cash Disbursements for June 15, 2024 to June 28, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL, HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR JUNE 15, 2024 TO JUNE 28, 2024.
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Item C-2
CC:HA:PA:SA – Approval of Minutes for the Regular City Council Meeting Held on June 24, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, PARKING
AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE MINUTE S FOR THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON JUNE 24, 2024.
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July 8, 2024
9 Item C-3
CC - (1) Award of a Construction Contract to Newbuild
Construction and Restoration, Inc. as the Lowest Responsive and Responsible Bidder, in the Amount of $394,300 for the Police Station Windows Replacement Project; and (2) Authorizatio n to the Public Works Director/City Engineer to Approve Change Orders to the Contract in an Amount Not -to-Exceed $45,882 to Cover Contingency Costs
Yanni Demitri, Public Works Director, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Melissa Sanders stated that she supported anything to make Culver City more efficient and more effective.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT T O NEWBUILD CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION INC. AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, IN THE AMOUNT OF $394,300 TO IMPLEMENT THE POLICE STATION WINDOWS REPLACEMENT PROJECT; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE
CHANGE ORDERS TO THE NEWBUILD CONTRACT IN AN AMOUNT NOT -TO- EXCEED $45,882, IF NECESSARY; 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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Item C-4
CC – (1) Receipt of Progress Report on the Status of
Implementation of the Rent Control and Tenant Protections Ordinances (“Program”); (2) Waiver of Competiti ve Bidding Requirements, Pursuant to Culver City Municipal Code Section
3.07.075.F.3; (3) Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Professional Services Agreement with BAE Urban Economics July 8, 2024
10 Extending the Term of the Agreement through June 30, 2029 in an Additional Amount Not-to-Exceed $70,807 for Fiscal Year 2024 - 2025 with an Increase of CPI or No More than 5% in Subsequent Contract Years for Implementation and Support Services Related to the Program; (4) Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Professional Services Agreement with Tripepi Smith and
Associates Extending the Term of the Agreement through June 30, 2029 in an Additional Amount Not -to-Exceed $33,500 for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 with an Increase of CPI or No More than 5% in Subsequent Contract years for Public Communications Support for the Program; (5) Approval of a Five-Year Professional Services Agreement with HdL through June 30, 2029 in an Amount Not -to- Exceed $110,000 for Fiscal Year 2024 -2025 with an increase of CPI or No More than 5% in Subsequ ent Contract Years for Maintenance of the Rental Unit Registration System; and (6) Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Professional Services Agreement with Bet Tzedek Extending the Term of the Agreement through June 30, 2029 in an Additional Amount No t-to-Exceed $153,198 for Fiscal Year 2024 -2025 with an increase of CPI or No More than 5% in Subsequent Contract Years for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 for Legal Services Related to Landlord -Tenant and Other Housing Issues to Culver City Residents
Shannon Lewis, Rent Stabilization Coordinator, provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding clarification on the amount of fees and penalties.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Melissa Sanders asked about additional information regarding exclusions for increases to utilities costs.
Shannon Lewis, Rent Stabilization Coordinator, agreed to follow up with Ms. Sanders.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. RECEIVE A PROGRESS REPORT ON THE STATUS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RENT CONTROL AND TENANT PROTECTION ORDINANCES; AND,
2. WAIVE COMPETITIVE BIDDING REQUIREMENTS, PURSUANT TO CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE (CCMC) SECTION 3.07.075.F.3; AND,
3. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH BAE URBAN ECONOMICS RELATED TO THE PROGRAM, July 8, 2024
11 EXTENDING THE TERM OF THE AGREEMENT THROUGH JUNE 30, 2029 IN AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $70,807 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 - 2025 WITH AN INCREASE OF CPI OR NO MORE THAN 5% IN SUBSEQUENT CONTRACT YEARS; AND,
3. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH TRIPEPI SMITH AND ASSOCIATES (TSA) TO CONTINUE A
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM FOR THE RENT CONTROL AND TENANT
PROTECTIONS ORDINANCES, EXTENDING THE TERM AGREEMENT THROUGH JUNE 30, 2029 IN AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $33,500 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 WITH AN INCREASE OF CPI OR NO MORE THAN 5% IN SUBSEQUENT CONTRACT YEARS; AND,
4. APPROVE A FIVE-YEAR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH HDL
TO CONTINUE MAINTENANCE OF THE ONLINE RESIDENTIAL RENTAL
REGISTRATION SYSTEM AND EDUCATION AND COMPLIANCE SERVICES, EXTENDING THE TERM OF THE AGREEMENT THROUGH JUNE 30, 2029 IN AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $110,000 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024- 2025 WITH AN INCREASE OF CPI OR NO MORE THAN 5% IN SUBSEQUENT CONTRACT YEARS; AND,
5. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH BET TZEDEK TO CONTINUE PROVIDING LEGAL SERVICES
TO CULVER CITY RESIDENTS, EXTENDING THE TERM OF THE AGREEMENT THROUGH JUNE 30, 2029 IN AN ADDITIONAL AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $153,198 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 -2025 WITH AN INCREASE OF CPI OR NO MORE THAN 5% IN SUBSEQUENT CONTRACT YEARS; AND,
6. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
7. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-5
CC – Adoption of a Resolution Adopting City Council Policy Statement No 3005 (Prohibition on Campaign Activity During Public Meetings of City Council, Commissions, Boards and Committees)
Heather Baker, City Attorney, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
July 8, 2024
12 The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Melissa Sanders felt it important that City representatives attending events not advocate for any specific candidate or issue and that politics should be kept out of Council Chambers.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION ADOPTING CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT NO. 3005 (PROHIBITION ON CAMPAIGN ACTIVITY
DURING PUBLIC MEETINGS OF CITY COUNCIL, COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES).
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Item C-6
CC – Adoption of a Resolution Granting an Alcohol Use Permit to the Exchange Club to Conduct a Beer and Wine Garden in Veterans Memorial Park During the 2024 Fiesta La Ballona
Ted Stevens, Parks, Recreation and Community Services Director, provided a summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding allowing opportunity for other non -profits to participate; resistance to having a process to make a change; fairness; concern with providing the opportunity for one non -profit to participate ann ually that is not granted to any other non- profit; criteria; continued usage of previously successful systems; engagement of a competitive process; consistency with following the rules; legal requirements with operating a beer and wine garden; donation of money raised; allowing for a process that would permit other groups to participat e; dissolution of the Fiesta La Ballona Committee; vetting; allowing others to learn the process; concern with inequitable processes; a suggestion for two bars at Fiesta La Ballona; the fact that no groups in Culver City have reached out to express interest in running the Beer and Wine Garden; lack of awareness that groups in Culver City would have a chance to bid to run the Beer and Wine Garden; people who are not comfortable reaching out; a suggestion to advertise or make an announcement that the opportunity is available for anyone; creating avenues for people to participate; clarification that those interested could contact the City Manager or Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services; clarification that the Exchange Club has been running the Beer and Wine Garden since 2005; expansion of the event over the years ; the difficulty of meeting the July 8, 2024
13 stringent requirements; concern with making a change that might not work o ut long -term; organizations that receive their donations from the proceeds; procedures and protocol for succession planning; transparency of cost and opportunities across events; and institutional knowledge.
Responding to inquiry, Ted Stevens, Parks, Recr eation and Community Services Director , agreed to include language in outreach to vendors regarding the ability to reach out for inquiries for next year’s event.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION GRANTING AN ALCOHOL
USE PERMIT TO THE CULVER CITY EXCHANGE CLUB TO CONDUCT A BEER AND WINE GARDEN IN VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK DURING THE 2024 FIESTA LA BALLONA.
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Item C-7
CC – Approval of Culver City Amateur Radio Emergency Service (CCARES) to Proceed with the Incorporation of “Friends of CCARES” as a 501(c)(3) Public Benefits Corporation as Being Consistent with the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between the City and CCARES
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE THE INCORPORATION BY CC ARES OF “FRIENDS OF CCARES” AS A PUBLIC BENEFITS 501(C)(3) CORPORATION AS BEING CONSISTENT WITH THE 1995 MOU BETWEEN THE CITY AND CCARES.
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Item C-8
CC - (1) Approval of a Three -Year Professional Services Agreement with Lance, Soll & Lunghard, LLP for Financial Audit Services for a Total Amount Not -to-Exceed $339,480; and (2) Authorization for the City Manager to Exercise Two One -Year Options to Extend the Agreement for a Total Amount Not-to-Exceed $228,980
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A THREE -YEAR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
LANCE, SOLL & LUNGHARD, LLP FOR FINANCIAL AUDIT SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $339,480; AND,
July 8, 2024
14 2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXERCISE TWO ONE-YEAR OPTIONS FOR RENEWAL FOR A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $228,980; 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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Item C-9
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing Other Non-Residential Land Uses, including a Religious Place of Worship and Community Center, in Lieu of Commercial Uses, on the Ground Floor of Jubilo Village, a 100% Affordable Mixed-Use Development at 4464 Sepulveda Boulevard
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING OTHER NON-
RESIDENTIAL USES, INCLUDING RELIGIOUS FACILITY AND RELATED
ACTIVITIES, ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF A MIXED -USE DEVELOPMENT AT 4464 SEPULVEDA BOULEVARD.
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Item C-10
CC – (1) Award of Construction Contract to Elencor Belco Electrical Inc., as the Lowest Responsive and Responsible Bidder, in the Amount of $463,407 for the Unsignalized
Intersection Safety Improvements Project, PS -028; and (2) Authorization to the Public Works Director to Approve Change Orders to the Contract in an Amount Not -to-Exceed $69,511 to Cover Contingency Costs (15%)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AWARD THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO ELENCOR BELCO ELECTRICAL INC., AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, IN THE AMOUNT OF $463,407 FOR THE UNSIGNALIZED INTERSECTION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, PS028; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS TO THE CONTRACT IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $69,511 TO COVER CONTINGENCY (15%); AND,
July 8, 2024
15 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-11
CC – Approval of an Application for $200,000 in Grant Funds through the Bureau of Justice Assistance FY 2024 Body -Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program to Support Law Enforcement Agencies
Andrew Bellante, Culver City Police Department (CCPD) Captain, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Melissa Sanders did not want to see pushback from any Council Members as the program was paid for with a grant and was meant to increase transparency.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the presentation; support for providing accountability; ensuring that officers conduct themselves properly; data indicating a reduction in use of force; improved policies; the sharp focus on training; the Arrest and Control Team; the Crisi s Negotiation Team; the robust Use of Force review process; a statement by the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) indicating the potential for body-worn cameras as a much -needed police oversight tool ; policy behind all equipment being used; guidelines f or video release; different views of Public Safety; the recent opportunity to have a City - wide conversation about Public Safety; the General Plan Element; marginalized communities; underlying tension; the need to directly address issues; National Institute of Justice studies indicating lack of effectiveness in achieving outcomes for body- worn cameras; lack of statistically significant effects; staff agreement to look into finding additional data; the overall reduction in use of force; different factors related to use of force; accountability and transparency as a pillar in President Obama’s Task Force on 21 st Century Policing Report; protecting July 8, 2024
16 officers and citizens from false claims; body-worn cameras as a training tool to enhance overall performance; video evidence for criminal prosecution; determining whether search and detention were justified; providing an unbiased account of encounters; CCPD as one of the first adopters; AB953; and RIPA.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the full ACLU statement indicating the importance of good policy to ensure goals of providing police oversight, reducing abuses, and increasing community trust are met rather than simply becoming another police surveillance device and invading privacy; access to footage; when cameras are turned on; research by the National Institute of Justice indicating that the use of body -worn cameras has not effectively reduced incidents, improved officer safety, increased evidence quality, reduced citizen comp laints, or reduced agency liability; appreciation for the responsiveness of Chief Sims to inquiries; data that does not match statements about reduced use of force; appreciation for the commitment to RIPA data; ensuring reduced use of force, especially on People of Color in Culver City; clarification that the training being provided is not new ; clarification that the Transparency Report on the CCPD website is the quarterly report; number of calls; overall program costs; the year-long pilot program; the upco ming report; the annual grant application to mitigate costs; research into grants to mitigate costs; the robust body-worn camera policy; supervisory review; layers of transparency; clarification that all law enforcement agencies in the area with the except ion of Inglewood, use body-worm cameras; and a request that CCPD make the body-worn camera policy easily available on the website for the public.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $200,000 THROUGH THE BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE FY 2024 BODY-
WORN CAMERA POLICY AND IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM TO SUPPORT LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUC H DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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July 8, 2024
17 Item C-12
CC – (1) Award of Construction Contract in the Amount of $168,893 to Palp Inc, DBA Excel Paving Company as the Lowest Responsive and Responsible Bidder, for the Construction of Sidewalk Uplift Repair and Replacement, PS -011 (Federal Community Development Block Grant Project Number 602626-23); and (2) Authorization to the Public Works Director/City Engineer to Approve Change Orders in an Amount Not -to-Exceed $33,778 (20%) to Cover Contingency Costs
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AWARD A CONTRACT TO PALP, INC DBA EXCEL PAVING COMPANY, THE
LOWEST RESPONSIBLE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, FOR THE SIDEWALK UPLIFT REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT PROJECT, PS -011 (CDBG PROJECT NUMBER 602626-23) IN THE AMOUNT OF $168,893; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $33,778 (20%) TO COVER CONTINGENCY COSTS; 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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Item C-13
CC – (1) Waiver of Formal Bid Requirements, Pursuant to Culver City Municipal Code Section 3.07.075.F.3; and (2) Approval of a Five-Year Contract with Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (SPCALA) for Primary Animal Sheltering Services in an Amount Not -To-Exceed $294,000.00 for a Term Ending June 30, 2029
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. WAIVE FORMAL BID REQUIREMENTS, PURSUANT TO CCMC SECTION
3.07.075.F.3; AND,
July 8, 2024
18 2. APPROVE A FIVE-YEAR CONTRACT WITH SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION
OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS LOS ANGELES (SPCALA) FOR PRIMARY ANIMAL SHELTERING SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $294,000.00 FOR A TERM ENDING JUNE 30, 2029; 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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Item C-14
CC – Authorization of an Additional Expenditure under the Existing Lease and Maintenance Agreement with Konica Minolta for Citywide Multifunction Device Managed Print Maintenance Services in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $75,000 in Fiscal Year 2023- 2024 and an Amount Not-to-Exceed $86,250 in Fiscal Year 2024 - 2025
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: AUTHORIZE AN ADDITIONAL EXPENDITURE UNDER
THE EXISTING LEASE AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT WITH KONICA MINOLTA
FOR CITYWIDE MULTIFUNCTION DEVICE MANAGED PRINT MAINTENANCE SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $75,000 IN FISCAL YEAR 2023- 2024 AND FOR AN AMOUNT NOT -TO-EXCEED $86,250 IN FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025.
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Item C-15
CC – Adoption of Resolution Designating the City's Authorized Agents for the Purpose of Obtaining Certain State and Federal Financial Assistance under the California Disaster Assistance Act and Public Law 93-288 as Amended by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act of 1988,
Respectively
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL : ADOPT THE RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE CITY’S AUTHORIZED AGENTS FOR THE PURPOSE OF OBTAINING CERTAIN
STATE AND FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE UNDER THE CALIFORNIA DISASTER ASSISTANCE ACT AND PUBLIC LAW 93-288 AS AMENDED BY THE ROBERT T. STAFFORD DISASTER RELIEF AND EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1988, RESPECTIVELY.
July 8, 2024
19 MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN , SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1 THROUGH C-10, AND C-12 THROUGH C-15.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-11.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: MCMORRIN, PUZA
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Public Hearings
None.
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Action Items
Item A-1
CC - (1) Adoption of a n Ordinance Approving City -Initiated Zoning Code Amendment P2024 -0083-ZCA Amending Title 17 Zoning Sections: 17.330.015 - Definitions, 17.330.040 - Signs in the Public Right of Way, and 17.700.010 - Definitions of Specialized Terms and Phrases Related to Digital Wayfinding Kiosks on Public Property; and a Categorical Exemption Pursuant to CEQA
Guidelines Sections 15303 (Class 3 Exemption) and 15304 (Class 4 Exemption); (2) If Desired, Authorization to Release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Interactive Digital Kiosks and Related Advertising Revenue-Sharing Program on Public Right-of-Way; and (3) Direction to the City Manager as Deemed Appropriate
Elaine Gerety Warner, Economic Development Director,
provided a summary of the material of record.
Christina Burrows, Assistant City Attorney, discussed
specifics of the proposed zoning code amendment; adding size restrictions; and corrections to a scrivener’s error.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
July 8, 2024
20 The following members of the public addressed the Cit y Council:
Barbara Broide, Coalition for a Beautiful Los Angeles,
provided background on the non -profit organization;
expressed concern that Culver City would be renting out public space for commercial advertising; discussed
financial benefit; the absence of a public benefit th at justifies taking over sidewalks for commercial messaging that no one can turn off; the advertising program; the
valuable City right of way; densification of Culver City; rotating ads; tourist use of cellphones for wayfindin g; transit shelters that provide information; ad structures; digital changing messages and driver distraction;
vulnerable roadway users; privacy protection; digital
billboards collecting data from everyone who passes by
without the opportunity to opt out ; and contradicting the California Constitution that ensures the right to privacy.
Darrel Menthe, DBA, discussed the value of small format, poster advertising for local events; posting a calendar of events for Town Plaza; sandwich boards for the Summer
Concert Series; kiosks as useful tools; concern with having too many kiosks; proper siting; and he asked that the DBA and the Arts District be included in the process to ensure true community benefit.
Melissa Sanders discussed deficit spending; regulation of signage; initiation of an art contest to wrap the kiosks; requirements; angling signage away from drivers to
alleviate concerns; banners; placement of kiosks at parks and other locations to increase awareness of local events; examination of taking on a new format; and ensuring
positive benefits to Culver City.
Marci Braun discussed potential benefit; promotion of what Culver City has to offer; touch screens; creation of a
Parks and Recreation app to access from th e kiosk;
showcasing unique Culver City programs; and faith in Culver City officials and employees to create and implement strict rules.
Nancy Bar ba discussed proponents who assert that the
advertising revenue would help the deficit and increase July 8, 2024
21 community awareness of events; the amount of time that community messaging would be used; advertising revenue; the Berkeley agreement to deploy kiosks; pilot programs; the difficulty of exiting a contract once it is entered into; she asserted that the community at l arge did not want
advertising in the public right of way; she discussed
limited space for pedestrians and wheelchairs; inviting advertising in a City th at prides itself on not having billboards; going against community tradition; concern
about tracking from kiosks; criminalization of reproductive health care; things going on in other states; data on kiosks that is not openly shared; limited transparency;
wayfinding, advertising, and community announcements; and she expressed concern with electronic billboards placed in the public right of way using limited public space.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members
regarding the robust RFP (Request for Proposals) detailing concerns and issues; placement; driver distraction; looking at what companies can do or are willing to do; determining whether companies are up to City standards; the value of wayfinding and community announcements; maximum screen
size; support for moving forward to allow for additional community conversation; appreciation to staff for their work; the need to change zoning in order to go out for RFP; the process; making an educated decision; clarification that the zoning code would allow advertising which would not be restricted to local businesses; clarification that the zoning code would need to change because the current signage section does not allow for kiosks or any type of related item in public property; the ability to have a
conversation without the zoning code being change d;
majority City Council direction to proceed with a program, which cannot be done without amending the zoning code
first; concern that the process is being done out of order; community feedback; concern with advertising and the way the conversation is being framed; the goal for kiosks to be informational, wayfinding, or advertising; feedback from the Chamber of Commerce; lack of data to indicate that kiosks provide a community service or help with wayfinding, driving traffic to businesses, or public engagement;
affects to tourist behavior; the adve rtising component; financial information; having a conversation about City - wide advertising; support for pausing the conversation to July 8, 2024
22 let people know that a conversation about changing the zoning code is being had, and then deciding whether kiosks are supported and move forward; concern that the process is not being followed; and the feeling that things are
being done in the shadows.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council
Members regarding length of the process; outreach; public consideration of the item; data from Berkeley; a digital kiosk under a bus shelter in West Hollywood; the number of bus stops in Culver City; ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements; screen size; placement in limited areas in Culver City that can accommodat e them; distracted
drivers; tiers for the potential revenue stream; use for local and national advertising; targeted, neighborhood
specific advertising; issuance of the RFP through Planet Bids; clarification that the RFP is not the end of the
process and does not need to anticipate every detail ; the amount of sidewalk space in Culver City; impact of the
kiosks on public space; the opportunity to get information to the community; kiosks in other area cities; the feeling that the kiosks look more like large iPhones than
billboards; and the opportunity to shrink the deficit.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding sustained community concerns about efforts to introduce billboards or a kiosk program since 2019; public comment indicating clear understanding that the kiosks are billboards and advertisements; the importance of clarity and intentional community engagement; community opposition to billboards that resulted in an ordinance being passed to prevent them; the need for a strong business community and for corporate partners; support for the community and for improving quality of life; the importance of being
clear that the item being considered is to change an
ordinance that was put in place for a reason; concern with focusing on bus stops as a location; study and strategy around the location of kiosks; revenue estimation; the fact that most people have wayfinding through their phones;
being honest about the invitation for advertisements;
community engagement; effectivenes s of kiosks in other neighborhoods; whether the ordinance would be rolled back if it proves to be ineffective in increasing community
engagement; determining best methods for community
July 8, 2024
23 engagement before using kiosks as a tool; engagement of all stakeholders for placement, not just businesses; support for reviewing revenue sources; and the importance of being honest with the community that the door is being opened to advertisers.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT THE ORDINANCE ADOPTING ZONING CODE AMENDMENT
P2024-0083-ZCA MODIFYING SECTIONS: 17.330.015 -
DEFINITIONS, 17.330.040 - SIGNS IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY, AND 17.700.010 - DEFINITIONS OF SPECIALIZED TERMS AND
PHRASES, OF THE CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE (CCMC) AS IT
RELATES TO DIGITAL WAYFINDING KIOSKS ON PUBLIC PROPERTY AND A CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION CEQA GUIDELINES SECTIONS 15303
(CLASS 3 EXEMPTION) AND 15304 (CLASS 4 EXEMPTION); AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL S (RFP)
FOR INTERACTIVE DIGITAL KIOSKS, AND RELATED ADVERTISING REVENUE-SHARING PROGRAM, ON CITY PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: MCMORRIN, PUZA
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Item A-2
CC - Discussion and Direction Regarding a Potential New Bicycle and Pedestrian Ramp and Pathway Connecting Ince Boulevard to Ballona Creek
Mayor McMorrin indicated that Item A-2 would be considered at a future meeting.
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Item A-3
CC – Adoption of a Resolution Appointing a Delegate and Alternate Delegate as Part of the General Membership of the July 8, 2024
24 Independent Cities Association and Rescinding Resolution No. 2024-R003
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, provided a summary of the material of record.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported that no requests to speak had been received.
Council Member Eriksson nominated Council Member Vera to serve as delegate and Vice Mayor O’Brien to serve as alternate.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation to Council Member Eriksson for his 7 years of service; attendance of conferences and seminars; the need to foster relationships to be effective in the organization; and value added by Council Member Eriksson.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIE N, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CULVER CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION APPOINTING COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AS DELEGATE AND VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AS ALTERNATE D ELEGATE AS PART OF THE GENERAL
MEMBERSHIP OF THE INDEPENDENT CITIES ASSOCIATION AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2024-R003.
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Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported that no requests to speak had been received.
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Items from Council Members
Council Member Vera asked that the meeting be adjourned in memory of former CCPD Captain Don Ericson.
Council Member Puza discussed the chances of 2024 being one of the hottest years in history; received consensus from Mayor McMorrin, Vice Mayor O’Brien , and Council Member Vera to agendize consideration of Culver City becoming an Emergency July 8, 2024
25 Climate City; discussed grants; development of a climate plan and budget; and application to be a C40 City or safe City.
Mayor McMorrin received consensus from Vice Mayor O’Brien and Council Members Puza and Vera to remand consideration of including the TransLatin@ Coalition in REAP work or Anti -Hate work to the City Council Equity Subcommittee; discussed potential overlap with the EHRAC; and she received consensus from Vice Mayor O’Brien and Council Members Puza and Vera to agendize off-cycle sponsorship for Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical.
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Council Member Requests to Agendize Future Items
City Council consensus was achieved to agendize future
consideration of the following items:
Consideration of Culver City becoming an Emergency Climate City.
Consideration of an off-cycle sponsorship of Cat Kid Comic Club:
the Musical.
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MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA,
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE MEETING BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF FORMER CCPD CAPTAIN DON ERICSSON.
July 8, 2024
26 Adjournment
There being no further business , at 10:15 p.m., the City Council, Housing Authority Board, Parking Authority Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned in memory of former CCPD Captain Don Ericsson to a meeting to be held on August 12, 2024.
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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 Parking Authority and Culver City Housing Authority Board
Culver City, California
YASMINE-IMANI MCMORRIN
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: _________________________