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 December 9, 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 6:35 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall.
Present: Yasmine-Imani McMorrin, Mayor
Dan 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, reported no requests to speak.
December 9, 2024
2 MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA , SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN
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 6:37 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 – Existing Litigation Re: WCAB Case No. ADJ14258830
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
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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Regular Session
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 for recognition presentations at 7:10 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall with all Council Members present.
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Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor McMorrin led the Pledge of Allegiance.
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Land Acknowledgement
Mayor McMorrin read the Land Acknowledgement and stated that a more comprehensive version had been posted in Council Chambers.
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December 9, 2024
3 Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor McMorrin indicated nothing to report out from Closed Session.
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Community Announcements by Members/Updates from Commissions, Boards and/or Committees/Information Items from Staff
Council Member Eriksson thanked the Downtown Business
Association and staff for a well-executed Tree Lighting.
Council Member Puza discussed the Asian World Film Festival from November 14 -20; the second swearing in of Supervisor Holly Mitchell; and he wished everyone Happy Holidays and Happy New Year.
Vice Mayor O’Brien wished everyone Happy Holidays and Happy New Year; discussed the Tree Lighting; and he thanked Amazon for their sponsorship of the Tree Lighting and for their donation to the Exchange Club for much needed items for Wellness Village.
Mayor McMorrin expressed appreciation to staff, the Wende Museum, and women-owned businesses that supported the State of the City last month; echoed previous comments about the Tree Lighting; reported attending a conference in San Antonio sponsored by Accelerator for America and the US Conference of Mayors in San Diego; discussed work with the Clean Power Alliance; and thanked Lei’d Cookies for donating cookies for colleagues and staff.
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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:
Dr. Luther Henderson thanked the current City Council for their service; expressed appreciation to Council Member Eriksson for his service; and congratulated newly elected City Council Members.
December 9, 2024
4 Al the Zionist asserted that the Jewish people had the right to live freely in their homeland; discussed demands for a ceasefire resolution; claims of a genocide in Gaza; the need to agendize a resolution to send more aid to Israel; and he wanted to help Israel free Palestine from Hamas.
Michael Koppy with one minute ceded b y Noriko Wada , provided copies to staff and Council Members of an outline of how the Planning Department eviscerated community outreach; discussed his background as a union organizer; fixing issues; hel ping developers; and being more effective.
Jony King, Culver City Unified School District (CCUSD) Green New Deal Team, provided background on the Team ; discussed the climate crisis; the difficulty of getting environmental policy passed; and urged that a climate emergency be declared.
Nava Waisman, CCUSD Green New Deal Team, discussed benefits to declaring a climate emergency; the C40 Consortium; incitin g change; the importance of the declaration; estimated costs of climate change; being at the forefront of the movement; and improving quality of life for all residents.
Rosi Gabl congratulated new City Council Member Fish; discussed turning the City Coun cil into an activist Council; civil destruction under the pretense of empathy; promises made by Mayor McMorrin and Council Members Fish and Puza; and support for the safety and community experienced during the past two years in Culver City.
Mariah Fontij n with one minu te ceded by Stephanie Sharp , provided background on herself; discussed the importance of speaking the truth; the definition of the word martyr; the current situation in Isreal/Palestine; the report published on December 4, 2024 by Amnesty In ternational; genocide being committed by Israel against Palestinians in the occupied Gaza Strip; prohibited acts being done by Israel; treatment of Palestinians in Gaza as a subhuman group; and she asked that the City Council stand up for peace by declarin g a mutual and permanent ceasefire on all sides on behalf of Culver City residents.
Emily Fisher reported sending an email to Council Members with highlighted excerpts from the original General Plan; discussed problems with roadway air pollution; pollution created by idling cars; negative affects to her health; and issues with building giant projects.
December 9, 2024
5 Maria Beg, Culver City Residents for Peace, invited everyone to look at the display that was part of the candlelight vigil held prior to the meeting; discussed honoring the children killed in Gaza; the toy drive, shoe drive, and a winter clothing drive; donations collected so far; impacts of the conflict to the Culver City community; and advocacy for love and peace in the community.
Huong Nghiem-Eilbeck provided background on herself; discussed the memorial to pay homage to the lives lost; and she offered to send a copy of the video made for the event.
Joshua M. Edra discussed Safe Streets for All; a push to phase out private car ownership in Culver City; the number of residents who own cars; the percentage of people who work in Culver City and drive; demographics; benefits of cars; things that cars do t hat mass transit cannot; safety issues with transit; causes of death that have a higher percentage than cars; climate change; science experimentation gone awry; dirty emissions; and clean alternatives.
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Receipt and Filing 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 DECEMBER 9, 2024.
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Order of the Agenda
Consent Calendar Item C-3 and C-7 were considered separately.
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Consent Calendar
Item C-1
CC:HA:SA - Approval of Cash Disbursements for November 2, 2024 to November 29, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR NOVEMBER 2, 2024 TO NOVEMBER 29, 2024.
December 9, 2024
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Item C-2
CC:HA:SA:DC:PA – Approval of Minutes for the Special City Council Meetings Held on June 3, 2024 and November 11, 2024
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL , HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, DISASTER
COUNCIL, PARKING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS HELD ON JUNE 3, 2024 AND NOVEMBER 11, 2024.
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Item C-3
CC - 1) Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Salary Schedule for City Attorney, Effective Retroactive to December 2, 2024; (2) Adoption of a Resolution Approving Salary Schedules for the Culver City Fire Management Group (FMG) and the Culver City Firefighter's Association (FFA), Effective Retroactive to July 1, 2024; (3) Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Salary Schedule for Non-Benefited Employees (NBNE) in Accordance with the State of California Minimum Wage Increase Effective December 30, 2024; and (4) Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Salary Schedule for City Council Members, Effective December 16, 2024
Stephanie Condran, Human Resources Analyst, provided a summary of the material of record; discussed salary adjustments; cost of living increases; public adoption of pay schedules; and compliance with CalPERS regulations.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SALARY SCHEDULE FOR CITY
ATTORNEY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CITY ATTORNEY EXECUTIVE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT, EFFECTIVE RETROACTIVE TO DECEMBER 2, 2024; AND,
2. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING SALARY SCHEDULES FOR THE CULVER
CITY FIRE MANAGEMENT GROUP (FMG) AND THE CULVER CITY
FIREFIGHTER’S ASSOCIATION (FFA), EFFECTIVE RETROACTIVE TO JULY 1, 2024; AND,
3. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SALARY SCHEDULE FOR NON -
BENEFITED EMPLOYEES (NBNE) IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE STATE OF December 9, 2024
7 CALIFORNIA MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 30, 2024; AND,
4. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SALARY SCHEDULE FOR CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS, EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 16, 2024.
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Item C-4
CC – Approval of a Direct Service Provider Agreement with Los Angeles County Sanitation District No. 2 for Recovered Organic Waste Product (ROWP) in an Amount Not -to-Exceed of $55,000 Annually
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A DIRECT SERVICE PROVIDER AGREEMENT WITH LOS ANGELES COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT NO. 2 FOR RECOVERED ORGANIC WASTE PRODUCT (ROWP) IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $55,000.00 ANNUALLY; 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-5
CC – Adoption of an Ordinance Confirming the Downtown Culver City Business Improvement District 2025 Annual Work Plan and Levy of Assessments
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE CONFIRMING THE DOWNTOWN CULVER CITY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT 2025 ANNUAL WORK PLAN AND LEVY OF ASSESSMENTS.
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Item C-6
CC – Approval of (1) an Agreement with Arakelian Enterprises, Inc., Doing Business as Athens Services, to Allow the Delivery of Municipal Waste to the Culver City Transfer Station; and (2) December 9, 2024
8 Authorization to the City Manager to Approve Similar Disposal Agreements
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH ARAKELIAN ENTERPRISES, INC., DOING
BUSINESS AS ATHENS SERVICES, TO ALLOW THE DELIVERY OF MUNICIPAL WASTE TO THE CULVER CITY TRANSFER STATION; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW AND PREPAR E THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-7
CC – Adoption of an Ordinance Amending the Culver City General Plan Land Use and Zoning Maps, Approving a Density and Other Bonus Incentives, and Approving a Comprehensive Plan that Establishes Planned Development Zone No.18, thereby Allowing Construction of the Project at 5700 Hannum Avenue (P2023-0218-
CP,-DOBI,-GPMA,-ZCMA)
Mayor McMorrin reported that she would not be voting on the item due to the proximity of her residence to the project creating a conflict of interest and that she had been advised that she did not have to exit the dais.
Heather Baker, City Attorney, explained that it was not necessary to exit the dais as the item is on the Consent Calendar.
Council Member Puza reported that he would not be voting on the item due a conflict of interest with the proximity of his residence to the project.
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Emily Fisher encouraged current and future Council Members to read excerpts from the original General Plan included in the packet she provided; she read the goal of the Land Use Element; discussed estimated population; oversized developments that December 9, 2024
9 provide less than 10% of low income apartments being traded for parking spaces; loss of trees; things that are not being taken into consideration when projects are being approved; air quality that is only protected by greenspace; concern with the removal of greenspace and open space; concern with affects to resident health; plans for Culver City by the City’s founders; and she indicated she would provide additional information.
Judi Sherman thanked the City for their work; acknowledged good points made by the pre vious speaker; discussed lack of fair play, advocacy, and critical thinking skills on behalf of Fox Hills on display at the November 11, 2024 City Council meeting with the approval of the 5700 Hannum project; City Council awareness of the high density desi gnation issues on the south side of Slauson; absence of the issue on a City Council agenda; neglecting responsibility to the Fox Hills community by not looking at the big picture and multiple projects proposed ; approval of the project despite statements by staff that the environmental impact was unknown; those who indicated being in support of equitable distribution of housing ; conflict s of interest for City Council Members; political capital that should be spent on Fox Hills; harm caused to the Fox Hills c ommunity; kudos to Mr. Koppy; she asserted that all Council Members were complicit and acting unfairly in ignoring the central issue of the 100 units per acre designation that led to the proposals; and she reported sending email regarding the problematic Planning Commission.
Joshua M. Edra discussed climate change; lack of a need to remove single -family housing; sanitation systems; better health; wealth creation; and he noted that single family zoning was good for social cohesion.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT THE ORDINANCE APPROVING P2023-0218- CP, -DOBI, -GPMA, -ZCMA WITH EXHIBIT A: CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL; EXHIBIT B: CODE REQUIREMENTS; EXHIBIT C: GENERAL PLAN MAP AMENDMENT; AND EXHIBIT D: ZONE CODE MAP AMENDMENT.
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Item C-8
CC - Approval of a Professional Services Agreement with CWE for the Transfer Station Stormwater Diversion Upgrades in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $129,500
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
December 9, 2024
10 1. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH CWE FOR THE
TRANSFER STATION S TORMWATER DIVERSION SYSTEM UPGRADES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED OF $129,500; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS IN THE AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $239,200, 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 an Ordinance Confirming the Culver City Arts District Business Improvement District Annual Work Plan and the Levy of Assessments for Calendar Year 2025
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE CONFIRMING THE CULVER
CITY ARTS DISTRICT BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ANNUAL WORK PLAN AND LEVY OF ASSESSMENTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2025.
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-6, C-8, AND C-9.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
ERIKSSON THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM C- 7 TO ADOPT THE ORDINANCE APPROVING P2023-0218-CP, -DOBI, -GPMA, -ZCMA WITH EXHIBIT A: CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL; EXHIBIT B: CODE REQUIREMENTS; EXHIBIT C: GENERAL PLAN MAP AMENDMENT; AND EXHIBIT D: ZONE CODE MAP AMENDMENT.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: ERIKSSON, O’BRIEN, VERA
NOES: NONE
RECUSED: MCMORRIN, PUZA
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December 9, 2024
11 Action Items
Item A-1
CC - Adoption of a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Culver City, California, Certifying and Reciting the Facts of the General Municipal Election Held on November 5, 2024 and Stating the Results of Such Election in Accordance with the City Charter
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, provided a summary of the material of record noting that 80% of the votes cast by 80% of registered voters were made by mail; she shared the Certificate of the Election; and indicated that election results were available on the Culver City website.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER ERIKSSON, SECODNED BY VICE MAYOR O’BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED , THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION CERTIFYING AND RECITING THE FACT OF THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024 AND STATING THE RESULTS OF SUCH ELECTION.
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Item A-2
Departure of Council Member(s) Whose Terms Have Ended
Council Member Vera indicated that Council Member Eriksson would be sorely missed; discussed unique things about Council Member Eriksson; leadership during difficult times; support for local businesses; and appreciation for Council Member Eriksson’s dedication.
Council Member Puza thanked Council Member Eriksson for his time and service to the community; noted that he had learned a lot about Council Member Eriksson’s leadership; acknowledged disagreement; and wished Council Member Eriksson the best noting that he could now use his time and focus to make the gondola happen.
Vice Mayor O’Brien discussed meeting Council Member Eriksson during the pandemic; Feed Culver; quantifiable benefit provided to people; diligence by Council Member Eriksson in keeping an eye on the budget; and he expressed appreciation to Council Member Eriksson for his leadership.
December 9, 2024
12 Mayor McMorrin thanked Council Member Eriksson for his dedicated service; acknowledged his consistent passion; and she w ished him joy and renewed purpose.
Council Member Eriksson provided background on himself; indicated that it was his honor and pleasure to serve Culver City; thanked those who supported his campaigns and hoped that those who did not, felt that he had worked in the common interest for a better Culver City; discussed achievements during his tenure; he expressed appreciation to staff, residents, and his wife for their support; he wished the best to the elected Council Members; and he congratulated Vice Mayor O’Brien and Council Member Puza on their expected elevation to Mayor and Vice Mayor.
Mayor McMorrin invited public input.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Dr. Luther Henderson thanked Council Member Eriksson for his service and dedication to Culver City.
Lisa Skelley, Grace Diner, expressed appreciation to Council Member Eriksson for his service to the community; discussed his work to connect Grace Diner to Feed Culver in March 2020; and she thanked Council Member Eriksson for helping Grace Diner stay open and for providing much needed services to people in need.
Daniel Park was called to speak but was not present.
Ian Michael May , Los Angeles Assessor’s Office , discussed honoring past, present, and future Council Members in Culver City; acknowledged the service of Council Member Eriksson; and he presented a commendation to Council Member Eriksson.
Scott Houston, West Basi n Municipal Water District,
congratulated newly elected and reelected Council Members; discussed some of Council Member Eriksson’s accomplishments while serving; presented a proclamation to Council Member Eriksson; and he thanked Council Member Eriksson for his friendship and for his service to Culver City.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, read a proclamation to Council Member Eriksson from Sydney Kamlager Dove who could not be present.
The City Council presented a plaque to Council Member Eriksson for his years of service.
December 9, 2024
13 Council Member Eriksson stepped down as Council Member and exited the dais.
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Item A-3
CC:FA:HA:PA:SA - ACTION ITEM: (1) Administration of the Oath of Office to the Council Members-Elect; (2) Election of Mayor and Vice Mayor; and (3) Confirmation by the Financing Authority, Housing Authority, Parking Authority, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency that the Mayor and Vice Mayor of the City Council Shall Serve as Chair and Vice Chair of these Bodies, Respectively
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, presented the Certificate of Election to re -elected Members and administered the Oath of Office to newly elected Council Member Brian “Bubba” Fish, Council Member Freddy Puza, and to Mayor Yasmine-Imani McMorrin.
Kimberly Griffin pinned Council Member Vera.
Delores McMorrin and Madison Yvonne McMorrin pinned Yasmine- Imani McMorrin.
Madison Yvonne McMorrin expressed pride in her mother’s accomplishments.
Tom Fish, Shari Fish, Aaron Lieberman, and Olga Lexel pinned Brian “Bubba” Fish.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, took a voice roll call to reflect the newly seated City Council:
Present: Yasmine-Imani McMorrin, Mayor
Dan O’Brien, Vice Mayor
Brian “Bubba” Fish, Council Member
Freddy Puza, Council Member
Albert Vera, Council Member
Mayor McMorrin invited public comment:
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Dr. Luther Henderson congratulated Council Members on their election; reminded Council Members to consider the seriousness December 9, 2024
14 of the Oath of Office; discussed accountability; the victory of Donald Trump and the repudiation of liberal and progressive policies; asked that the Sanctuary City status be reconsidered; discussed federal immigration law; state sanctuary law and policy; decisions by state and local governments not to help the federal government vs. obstruction and interference; efforts to “Trump-proof” Culver City; he encouraged review of Section 13241a3 of Immigration Laws Title 8 of the United States Code; he reiterated and he wished everyone well.
Ron Bassilian congratulated Council Member Fish on his election; discussed constituents who were not aware of Council Member Fish’s platform; statements from those who rebuked his
association with them; support of the lawsuit against Culver City for taking down the second phase of MOVE Culver City; whether the new City Council would instruct the lane to be taken out again; concern with potential direction to the City Attorney regarding the appeal; whether fences would be removed from the underpasses to let transient camps return; Housing First Policy; concern with defunding the Culver City Police Department (CCPD); Israel; cautious optimism that the City Council will be able to peacefully co-exist; and he wished them well.
Amy Ellzey joined everyone in congratulating new and returning Council Members; expressed appreciation for how much the candidates spoke to people; discussed the need to represent the majority of residents; the importance of safety and the free flow of traffic through Culver City; those who moved to Culver City due to the reputation of CCPD; a recent survey that indicated 60% of respondents did not like MOVE Culver City ; those who started a lawsuit trying to overturn what the majority of residents wanted; increased crime rates since 2018-2019; the voting record of Mayor McMorrin against every police initiative since 2020; absence of references to MOVE Culver City and defunding CCPD in the campaigns of Council Member Puza and Mayor McMorrin; and she felt enco uraged that the City Council would work together to support what the majority of residents want.
John Erickson, City of West Hollywood Mayor, introduced his colleague Danny Hang ; noted that it was a day of celebration for everyone; discussed the successful campaigns; staying true to who you are as a person; standing up for a cause as standing up for the future; the connection between the two westside cities; community -first; leaders who answer the call; he indicated that he was proud to serve with all of them; and he reported that they had brought proclamations for the newly elected Council Members.
December 9, 2024
15 Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, distributed proclamations to the newly elected Council Members.
Ted Olguin, Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office, congratulated the new City Council on behalf of Jeff Prang noting that they stood ready to support Culver City.
Richard Burns, Western States Regional Council of Carpenters, congratulated newly elected Council Members and expressed appreciation to them for their hard work.
Triston Ezidore thanked West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson for reminding them of the celebratory moment; thanked outgoing Mayor McMorrin for her work; congratulated the new Mayor and Vice Mayor; discussed collaboration with the School District; and he was looking forward to working with the City Council in a leadership capacity.
Denise Neal congratulated newly elected Council Members; hoped that the City Council would guide with wisdom and compassion to make the best decisions possible to serve the people; she reminded everyone to stay humble, stay focused, and to pray to their higher authority; she asked that Council Members listen to people to work issues out; noted that Council Members were valued; discussed the importance of being he ard; open forums; the new Mayor and Vice Mayor; a suggestion for a community forum on Inauguration Day; and she thanked Council Members for their service.
Council Member Vera nominated Dan O’Brien to serve as Mayor and Freddy Puza to serve as Vice Mayor.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PUZA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPOINT DAN O’BRIEN TO SERVE AS MAYOR OF CULVER CITY.
Mayor O’Brien nominated Council Member Puza as to serve as Vice Mayor.
MOVED BY MAYOR O’BRIEN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPOINT FREDDY PUZA TO SERVE AS VICE MAYOR OF CULVER CITY.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR PUZA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER MCMORRIN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE FINANCING AUTHORITY BOARD,
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, PARKING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR December 9, 2024
16 AGENCY BOARD: ADOPT RESPECTIVE MOTIONS CONFIRMING THAT THE MAYOR
AND VICE MAYOR SHALL SERVE AS CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR OF THESE BODIES, RESPECTIVELY.
Ryan Koehl pinned Vice Mayor Freddy Puza.
Beverly and Brandon O’Brien pinned Mayor Dan O’Brien.
Mayor O’Brien congratu lated newly elected Council Members; expressed appreciation to everyone; was excited to work with Vice Mayor Puza; expressed gratitude to staff for their efforts; discussed the largely ceremonial role; pressure from the public; thanked his wife noting the balance she provided; he indicated being honored to be the Mayor; noted the importance of
representing the community with humility and compassion; indicated that he would be available to hear concerns, celebrate successes, and be accountable for decisions made; acknowledged the fractured and divisive community; he wanted to see a re - set; noted the importance of criticizing policies, not people, disagreeing without being disagreeable, and not awfulizing; he noted that disagreements with the right mindset can lead to refined policy that is improved with open debate; discussed benefits to finding the sil ver lining; goals voiced during Council Member campaigns; taking opportunities to make a difference as a c itizen; and he noted parties going on to celebrate the new City Council.
Council Member Fish congratulated the Mayor; thanked everyone present to share in the moment; expressed gratitude for the trust put in him to serve; congratulated Council Members McMorrin and Vera on the reelection, and Vice Mayor Puza and Mayor O’Brien on their appointments; thanked former Council Member Eriksson and his wife for their service to Culver City; expressed appreciation to the other candidates who ran ; gratitude to Nancy Barba for running a great campaign and for her commitment to move Culver City forward; he noted that no one runs alone ; acknowledged the mentorship, friendship, and support of previous Mayors and Council Members; expressed appreciation to Council Member Mc Morrin for her leadership as Mayor; cited Vice Mayor Puza for blazing the trail as the first openly LGBTQ Council Membe r; discussed money spent to stop progress in Culver City; focus placed on the shared vision; the inability to stop shared people power wi th money; thanked everyone who worked to support his campaign , as well as his husband and his parents; discussed hopes and struggles of residents; diversity; the housing crisis; ensuring that more people can share in opportunities and privileges; the importance December 9, 2024
17 of decisions made by the City Council; the responsibility to stand firm on values; creating a Culver City where people from all backgrounds and incomes can thrive; ensuring streets are safe and accessible to all; the need for urgent action to address preventable traffic violence; climate change; the need for forward thinking policies for future generations; adopting a City budget that invests in services and small businesses; hearing from voices rarely heard at City Hall; engaging more of the community to help shape decisions that impact everyone; finding new ways for the community to share in prosperity; and he indicated that he was open to listening to and represent ing everyone in Culver City.
Council Member McMorrin thanked Culver City for their trust in electing her two times; pointed out elected officials in the audience; discussed the historic mayorship; her first in-person swearing in; appreciation for those who ran her campaign as well as friends and volunteers who helped lay the groundwork for a progressive Culver City; she expressed gratitude to her mother and her daughter; noted that community was the way forward; she reiterated her belief that so much more than the status quo is possible and that hope is a discipline; she felt that everyone in Culver City should be treated with dignity and respect noting that innovation and leadership can meet challenging issues; acknowledged uncertainty about what lies ahead for many groups; discussed making impacts at the local level; opening doors for others; pride in serving with two openly LGBTQ Council Members and the first LGBTQ Vice Mayor; she congratulations those serving and everyone who had the courage to run; and she looked forward to working to lead the community together.
Council Member Vera congratulated his colleagues; thanked everyone for placing their trust in him, his campaign team, volunteers, supporters , and family members ; discussed those working together to make Culver City better; his role to listen to concerns and represent all residents, whether they voted for him or not; accomplishments and challenges; being an inspiration to other cities; appreciation to staff; goals for the future; the shared vision for Culver City; similar goals, but different roads to get there; and the importance of compromise and working together.
Vice Mayor Puza congratulated Mayor O’Brien on becoming Mayor and expressed gratitude for becoming Vice Mayor; discussed collective effort in an engaged community; collaboration; his commitment to upholding the tradition of service; he
December 9, 2024
18 congratulated Council Members on their elections and appointments; expressed appreciation to previous Council Members for their service; he thanked everyone who ran for the City Council; discussed trailblazing by Council Member McMorrin; welcomed Council Member Fish; discussed the shared vision and hope for Culver City; critical challenges faced by Culver City; his goals; the importance of building a Culver City where no one is left behind and everyone can thrive; diversity; embracing forward-thinking solutions; thinking beyond the status quo; his appointment as the first openly LGBTQ+ Vice Mayor in Culver City; the political landscape that has used the community as a scapegoat; the message to LGBTQ+ people about their position in society; he noted that there was space in every room, every table, and every leadership position; he pointed out that being true to oneself was a strength, not a limitation; discussed work to be done to dismantle white supremacy culture; the role of local government to listen, to lead, and to serve; plans to hold Town Halls; and tackling challenges ahead to build a Culver City that everyone is proud of.
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Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor O’Brien invited public comment.
The following member of the public addressed the City Council:
Denise Neal reminded the City Council of the immense pool of talent in the community; noted the talent in the room; and she asked that everyone be allowed to participate.
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Items from Council Members
None.
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Council Member Requests to Agendize Future Items
Council Member McMorrin received unanimous City Council consensus to agendize consideration of transparency regarding the process to place items on agendas and best practices of other cities.
December 9, 2024
19 Vice Mayor Puza received unanimous City Council consensus to revisit the Sanctuary City policy to ensure that it is the most up to date that it can be and protects the most vulnerable in the community, and includes consideration of abortion access and protections for LGBTQ+ youth, and he received unanimous City Council consensus to look at considering making Culver City a Climate Emergency City.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, wished everyone Hap py Holidays; reported that after the CCUSD Board meeting on December 10, 2024, the Mike Balkman Council Chambers would be closed for renovations; and she indicated that Culver City City Council meetings scheduled for January 13, January 27, and February 10, 2025 would take place at the Culver City Senior Center.
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December 9, 2024
20 Adjournment
There being no further business, at 9:47 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 to a meeting to be held on January 13, 2025 at the Culver City Senior Center.
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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
DAN O’BRIEN
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: _________________________