OFFICIAL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL, CULVER CITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD,
CULVER CITY PARKING AUTHORITY BOARD,
CULVER CITY PUBLIC FINANCE AUTHORITY,
REDEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY BOARD,
AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
July 13, 2026
7:00 p.m.
The regular meeting of the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority Board, Culver City Public Finance Authority, Redevelopment Financing
Authority Board, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board was called to order at 6:39 p.m. in Mike Balkman Council Chambers at Culver City Hall.
Present: Freddy Puza, Mayor
Bubba Fish, Vice Mayor
Yasmine-Imani McMorrin, Council Member
Dan O'Brien, Council Member
Albert Vera, Council Member
oOo
Closed Session
Mayor Puza invited public comment.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, indicated that the Closed Session had been cancelled.
CS-1 CC - Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 3835 Watseka Avenue
City Negotiator: Lea Eriksen, Senior Assistant City Manager; Adam Troy, Assistant City Manager
Other Parties Negotiators: ReThink Culver City LLC, Greg Reitz Under Negotiation: Both Terns and Price
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
1 July 13, 2026
oOo
Recess
Mayor Puza called a recess from 6:40 p.m. to 6:59 p.m.
oOo
Recognition Presentations 6:45 p.m.
At 6:59 p.m. the City Council reconvened for Recognition Presentations.
Item R-1
A Proclamation in Honor of July as "Parks Make Life Better!" Month
Council Member O'Brien presented the proclamation in honor of "Parks Make Life Better!" Month.
Tomas Herrera-Mishler, Parks, Recreation and Community Services (PRCS) Director, expressed appreciation for being part of the team to protect the great community asset; discussed eagerness to work with the community, staff, and elected leaders to ensure Culver City has a world class park system; and he expressed appreciation for the proclamation.
oOo
Regular Session - 7:00 p.m.
The regular meeting of the City Council, Culver City Housing Authority Board, Culver City Parking Authority Board, Culver City Public Finance Authority Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority Board, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board was called to order at 7:04 p.m. in Mike Balkman Council Chambers at Culver City Hall.
Present: Freddy Puza, Mayor
Bubba Fish, Vice Mayor
Yasmine-Imani McMorrin, Council Member
Dan O'Brien, Council Member
Albert Vera, Council Member
2 oOo
Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Puza led the Pledge of Allegiance.
oOo
Land Acknowledgement
July 13, 2026
Mayor Puza read the oral statement of Land Acknowledgement. oOo
Closed Session Report
Mayor Puza reported that the Closed Session had been cancelled. oOo
Community Announcements by Members/Updates from Commissions, Boards and/or Committees/Information Items from Staff
Mayor Puza reported that Council Member remarks were being limited to two minutes each in an effort to maximize meeting management and increase meeting efficiency.
Council Member Vera reported becoming a proud grandfather to Morgan on June 29.
Council Member O'Brien reported attending the Independent Cities Association Summer Seminar on July 11-12; expressed excitement for the World Cup celebration on July 19 at The Steps; and he thanked staff for all of their efforts in support of activities provided for everyone.
Council Member McMorrin discussed Disability Pride Month; Minority Mental Health Awareness Month; the Culver City Community Calendar; Movies in the Park; the Summer Concert Series at The Steps; and she received unanimous agreement that when the meeting is adjourned, that it be adjourned in memory of Johan Sebastien Guererro who was shot by an ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agent in Maine noting the impacts all over the country.
Vice Mayor Fish discussed attending the Local Progress Convening in Baltimore; the Shake and Bake Family Fun Center; the Culver 3 July 13, 2026
City planning process for a recreation center; and he expressed appreciation to everyone who participated in Culver City Pride.
Mayor Puza echoed comments on the Local Progress Convening and Culver City Pride; expressed appreciation to those who worked to organize the Independence Day Celebration including the Downtown Business Association (DBA) ; discussed the
groundbreaking for Bill Botts Fields, one of many Capital Improvement Projects (CPis) for the fiscal year; and he announced upcoming dates for the Summer Concert Series and for Movies in the Park.
o0o
Presentations to City Council
Item P-1
Presentation of the Current Equal Employment Opportunity Plan (EEOP)
Jeannine Houchen, Senior Management Analyst, provided a summary of the material of record on the Current Equal Employment Opportunity Plan (EEOP) noting that data reported was from 2024- 2025.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the presentation and work done; staff agreement to create an event page to enhance accessibility for the women and girls survey that is currently open for input; and a request that the presentation be provided in advance with the agenda and made accessible to the public.
o0o
Joint Public Comment - Items NOT on the Agenda
Mayor Puza invited public comment noting that for the past several months, the City Council had been adhering to the 20 minute speaking limit noting that there would be an additional opportunity to provide Public Comment for Items Not on the Agenda later in the meeting.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, read the statement on hate speech and decorum.
Mayor Puza indicated that every effort is made to accommodate 4 July 13, 2026
everyone who wants to speak during the allotted public comment period, especially for items on the agenda; noted that under the Brown Act, Council Members are not allowed to discuss items that are not on the agenda; pointed out the public comment is not meant to be a dialogue; and reported that email and other forms of communication are available for matters not on the agenda.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported that email could be sent to Council Members at [email protected] or
city.council@culvercity. gov ; added that public comment for agenda items could be submitted to
[email protected]; she noted that e-comments could be submitted right next to where the agenda is posted; and she indicated that assistance was available from the City Clerk's Office by calling (310) 253-5851.
Mayor Puza added that another opportunity to provide comment would be available later in the meeting for any members of the public who were not able to speak during the public comment period at the beginning of the meeting.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Patrick Godinez acknowledged great things being done by Culver City; asked that CUlver City consider present and future healthcare facilities in the City's development; discussed the City's healthcare system; Southern California Hospital (SCH); and he proposed looking into the UCLA Healthcare System for future consideration to relieve stress from SCH and to help with mental health placements.
Monica Richardson discussed Conditions of Approval for Sony to build in 1993 and the inability for the City to change required improvements at Washington and Overland.
Paul Hewitt was called to speak but was not present in person or online.
Debbie Gambino discussed the focus on safety on the streets and in neighborhoods; Culver City as being part of the United States; asserted that City Council behavior had strong Socialist Marxist leanings; and she asked that Culver, Sepulveda, and Elenda be put on the ballot for a vote and that the City Council push back against Sacramento regarding density.
Marta Valdez presented a petition in opposition to the Better 5 July 13, 2026
Overland project; discussed constituents who feel like their concerns have not been adequately addressed; support for bicycle safety; accessibility concerns with the proposed removal of curbside parking and installation of permanent concrete barriers; increased cut-through traffic; impacts to businesses that rely on customer parking; lack of broad support from the community; and she requested that those Council Members in support of the project reconsider their vote or place the project on the ballot to allow residents to decide.
Gloria Cowan was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Therese Attias was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Leah Pressman expressed support for a letter written by Dr.
Jeanne Black that appeared in the Culver City Crossroads debunking claims made by opponents of the Better Overland Project; discussed the number of parking spaces to be removed; maintenance of turn lanes; compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements; outreach; retention of the same number of lanes; a letter published in disagreement with Ms.
Black's support of Better Overland that does not challenge any of her factual claims; and organizing by Culver City United who have received cash support from a local billionaire.
Rosalind La Briola asked that Council Members give her their full attention and that the Culver Connects and Better Overland Projects be stopped; discussed signatures presented to the City Council from people who do not want the project to move forward; and asked that the issue be placed on the November ballot for consideration noting that they had done so for Vote 16.
Ron Ostrin asserted that the Plans for Better Overland and Elenda would hurt the people they claim to protect; discussed parking; curb access for people with disabilities; parents with children; removal of critical turn lanes; pushing drivers to take risks; observance of many parked cars but no bicycles on Overland during his recent travels; negative effects of MOVE Culver City; asserted that the proposed projects were elitist, wasted Culver City money to serve an ideology rather than residents, and hurt working people, residents and businesses; and he discussed outside activists.
Gloria Cowan expressed support for the small historical cottages on Lafayette; asserted that there was no need for a six-story 6 July 13, 2026
building on the corner of Lafayette and Braddock; discussed the number of open apartments for rent in Culver City; lack of justification for the development; communication; isolation; families; community involvement; the 100 year celebration in the community; and she did not want to see Culver City lose community.
Jeanne Black reported being a Planning Commissioner speaking on behalf of herself; thanked Council Members and staff for their dedication; discussed normalization of insults and
misinformation; tone that has become part of city meetings; opportunities for public input before decisions are made; use of public comment to spread misinformation and insult Council Members and staff once decisions have been made; returning every week with the same accusations; drowning out residents who thoughtfully participate in the process; taking time away from those with other concerns; and she hoped that disagreement while still being respectful could be brought back to City Council meetings.
Eric Sims, Center Theater Group and Kirk Douglas Theater, requested off-cycle sponsorship for Dog Man: The Musical in order to utilize street pole banners in Culver City; discussed the successful 2023 production of Dog Man; providing visibility for the show; and he reported that performances begin September
12. Council Members unanimously
an off-cycle sponsorship
consideration or creating a
agreed to agendize consideration of
for Dog Man: The Musical and
form for off-cycle requests.
Council Member Vera expressed appreciation to Eric Sims for his work with Culver City over many years.
Mary Daval, Bike Culver City (BCC), discussed a pilot program called Tour de Culver City spearheaded by Art Nomura, beginning on July 18 to encourage seniors to get out and move; the collaboration between BCC and the Senior Center; appreciation for the opportunity to serve the community; and information available by calling the Senior Center or on their website.
Ed Conway echoed previous comments requesting that the vanity project be put on a ballot to let the voters decide.
Bob Mohme was called to speak but was not present in person or online.
Frida Dilonell discussed the 2025 Better Overland grant 7 July 13, 2026
application which indicated that the City had support from the community at large; failure to disclose strong community opposition; omission of data regarding the number of daily vehicles vs. bicyclists; the Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan recommending Class 2 bike lanes rather than Class 4 for the corridor; the "if you build it they will comeu sentiment that did not work in downtown Culver City; and lack of justification for losing curb access, loss of parking and turn lanes, or placement of a pedestrian signal outside of a Windsor Fountains condominiums bedroom window.
David Metzler reported emailing Council Members an article regarding the decision of LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department) to stop using Flock cameras over privacy concerns and misuse of data; other, cities who are ending or considering ending Flock contracts; concern with abuse and mass surveillance by the federal government and ICE; and he asked that the City Council agendize consideration of the Flock contract and how it can be improved, changed, or cancelled.
Marci Baun indicated being a PRCS Commissioner speaking on her own behalf and she asserted that the Vice Mayor had a conflict of interest according to AB (Assembly Bill) 1234, Government Code 87103.
Amy Ellzey discussed the $4 million proposal for protected bike lanes on Overland; points made about why that is not the best situation for cyclists; the responsibility of the City Council to look at fiscal health as well as public safety and the welfare of Culver City; safety concerns for cyclists; increased traffic congestion; delay to emergency vehicles; high speed vehicles going on to residential streets; and she asked that the program be stopped.
Jennifer Carter reported being a Planning Commissioner speaking on her own behalf; asked the City Council to agendize a discussion of how the Flock mass surveillance contract can be terminated and cameras removed with coverage of cameras until real protections can be put in place; noted that more that 80 cities nationwide had cancelled their contracts; and discussed suspension of the Flock partnership by LAPD resulting from a lack of enforceable rules on data ownership and privacy.
Alicia Ide, Management Analyst, reported that the 20 minute time period had ended.
Mayor Puza indicated another opportunity to make joint public 8 July 13, 2026
comment later in the meeting.
Council Member Vera stated that his voting record had been called into question; acknowledged that everyone had voted for the project noting that was before true community engagement had taken place; indicated that he prided himself on listening to the community; discussed circumventing the system and placing Vote 16 on the ballot; and he requested but failed to receive consensus to agendize consideration of placing the item on the November ballot.
Vice Mayor Fish indicated that he had never heard of a street redesign that had been placed on a ballot in the region or in the state; discussed jurisdiction of City staff and the City Council on streets; appreciation for the input; engagement with the community in good faith; crashes between cars and
pedestrians and cars and bicycles on the corridor; and the vital safety project for the street on the High Injury Network.
Council Member Vera reiterated his request for consensus to place an item on the ballot.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding lack of consensus to bring back consideration of placing an item on the ballot; lack of experience with a street redesign being placed on a ballot in the region or the state; jurisdiction of staff and the City Council over streets; appreciation for input; engaging in the community in good faith on the vital safety project; crashes between cars and pedestrians and cars and cyclists on the corridor; the importance of the safety project for the corridor on the High Injury Network; and concern with getting off topic.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER MCMORRIN, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
O'BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED BY 3:00 P.M. ON JULY 13, 2026. o0o
Order of the Agenda
Item C-10 was removed from the agenda and Items C-3 and C-9 were considered separately.
9 July 13, 2026
oOo
Consent Calendar
Mayor Puza announced that Item C-10 had been removed from the agenda but would return at the following meeting.
Mayor Puza and Council Members McMorrin and Vera reported the need to recuse themselves from Item C-3.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, proposed that Item C-3 be left to the end of the Consent Calendar when they would engage in a process to allow for three Council Members to participate.
Mayor Puza invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Davd Metzler spoke regarding Item C-3 expressing support for the Fox Hills project to improve sidewalks and pedestrian access; noted a neighbor killed while crossing the street in Fox Hills; and hoped the improvements could be made as soon as possible.
Travis Morgan indicated that he had been advocating for the project for 8 years; discussed his service on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC); acknowledged the efforts of Senior traffic Engineer Thomas Check noting that he had walked every single street; and pointed out unanimous support of the project from the City Council.
Richard Ochoa, Classics at Heritage Park Homeowners Association, discussed Item C-9; proximity of the community to the 11111 Jefferson project; opposition to the TUP (Temporary Use Permit) for extended hours; asked that the item be pulled from the Consent Calendar in order to facilitate discussion; discussed Board Members and other affected community members;
consideration of whether the only option to accomplish applicant savings is through extended hours for 109 days of clear impact on the community; families and retirees; and he felt there were less intrusive alternatives to be examined in a discussion with the applicant.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding consensus to consider a compromise; a letter received asking about the earlier hours and idling trucks; important components July 13, 2026
to address concerns; resubmission of the Construction Management Plan to address how extended hours are handled; provisions to address concerns; ensuring the trucking activity is handled with minimal impact; the ability of the Planning and Development Director to revoke extended hours or introduce additional requirements if issues arise; ensuring there is always a contact person for the contractor; past experience with addressing complaints; ongoing dialog to address issues; not allowing vehicles to idle; having strict controls and appropriate response to minimize neighborhood disruption; aligning hours with Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) operating hours to minimize confusion; identifying the overall climate in the region; benchmarking; looking at policy; delays to the project; the process; utilizing the space in a way that is not disruptive to the community and facilitates completion; standardization; and justification for deviation .
The applicant team discussed consultation with the contractor who has much experience working in Culver City, and the goal to shorten the overall construction period and disruption to the neighborhood.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding ensuring compliance; length of time the project would be extended if Sundays are taken off; clarification that not every Saturday or Sunday is planned to have work done; allowing relief from daily impacts to neighbors; and a request that staff return with information about aligning with LADES construction times.
Tamar Fuhrer discussed Items C-3 and C-9; commended Thomas Check and Public Works on Safer Fox Hills; expressed appreciation for the staff report that clearly laid out proposed changes to streets; discussed efforts to address accessibility concerns; proximity to the 11111 Jeff er son project; and she requested allowing earlier delivery to avoid traffic concerns.
Alicia Ide, Management Analyst reported that the speaker for c- 13 withdrew their comments.
Item C-1
CC:HA:SA - Approval of Cash Disbursements for June 13, 2026 to July 3, 2026
11 July 13, 2026
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL, HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR JUNE 13, 2026 TO JULY 3, 2026.
o0o
Item C-2
CC:HA:SA:PA - Approval of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting Held on June 22, 2026
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL, HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD, PARKING
AUTHORITY BOARD, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD: APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON JUNE 22, 2026.
o0o
Item C-3
CC - Approval of the Final Plans and Specifications and Authorization to Publish a Notice Inviting Bids for Phase 1 of the Safer Fox Hills Project, CIP No. PZ923
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE THE FINAL PLANS AND
SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZE THE PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF PHASE 1 OF THE SAFER FOX HILLS PROJECT, CIP NO. PZ923.
oOo
Item C-4
CC Approval of Final Plans and Specifications and
Authorization to Publish a Notice Inviting Bids for the Construction of Transfer Station Stormwater Diversion Upgrades Project, PW-009
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE THE FINAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS
AND AUTHORIZE THE PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF THE TRANSFER STATION STORMWATER DIVERSION UPGRADES PROJECT, PW-009.
o0o
Item C-5
12 July 13, 2026
CC - Approval of a Five-Year Agreement with Commercial
Industrial Roofing Inc. to Maintain and Repair the Roofs of 29 City-Owned Facilities in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $250,000 THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE A FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL ROOFING INC. TO MAINTAIN AND REPAIR THE ROOFS OF 29 CITY-OWNED FACILITIES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $250,000 .
o0o
Item C-6
CC - Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Culver City Municipal Code Section 15.02.1160 By Adding a Reference to the California Green Building Code Section 5.106.4.1.2.4
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 15.02.1160 BY ADDING A REFERENCE TO THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING CODE SECTION 5.106.4.1.2.4.
o0o
Item C-7
CC - Adoption of an Ordinance Approving City-Initiated Annual Zoning Code Amendment (P2026-0115-ZCA) Amending Various Sections of Title 17: Zoning Code of the Culver City Municipal Code {CCMC) for Clarifications, Corrections, and Updates, and Exemption from CEQA
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE APPROVING CITY - INITIATED ANNUAL ZONING CODE AMENDMENT (P2026-0115-ZCA) AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF TITLE 17: ZONING CODE OF THE CULVER
CITY MUNICIPAL CODE (CCMC) FOR CLARIFICATIONS, CORRECTIONS, AND UPDATES, AND EXEMPTION FROM CEQA.
oOo
Item C-8
CC - Authorization for the City to Apply for a Grant Opportunity through the California Department of Forestry and Fire
13 July 13, 2026
Protection (CAL FIRE) for Up to $950,000 for Wildfire Prevention Efforts at Culver City Park
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AUTHORIZE THE CITY TO APPLY FOR A GRANT OPPORTUNITY THROUGH
THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION (CAL FIRE) FOR UP TO $950, 000 FOR WILDFIRE PREVENTION EFFORTS AT CULVER CITY PARK; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASING OFFICER TO ISSUE SUCH PURCHASE ORDER ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-9
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Approving Temporary Use Permit P2026-0109-TUP to Allow Extended Construction Hours for 109 Days for a Mixed-Use Development at 11111 Jefferson Boulevard THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING TEMPORARY USE PERMIT P2026-0109- TUP FOR EXTENDED CONSTRUCTION HOURS FOR 109 DAYS FOR A MIXED USE PROJECT AT 11111 JEFFERSON BOULEVARD, TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION FROM 7:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M. ON MONDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS, AND FROM 7 : 0 0 A. M. TO 7 : 0 0 P. M. ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR TO ISSUE A TEMPORARY USE PERMIT ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-10
CC - Approval of a Residential Parking License Agreement, for use of the City-owned Watseka Parking Structure located at 3535 Watseka Avenue, with Rethink LLC, to support the mixed-use project at 9814 Washington Boulevard
This item was pulled from the agenda.
14 July 13, 2026
o0o
Item C-11
CC - Ratification of the CQ 2026 Grant Application Submitted to the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) for the Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program in the Amount of $50,834.00
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. RATIFY THE CQ 2026 GRANT APPLICATION SUBMITTED TO THE
CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES (CAL OES)
FOR THE PAUL COVERDELL FORENSIC SCIENCE IMPROVEMENT GRANTS PROGRAM IN THE AMOUNT OF $50,834.00; 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.
o0o
Item C-12
CC - Receive and File a Report Regarding the Emergency
Replacement of the Water Heater at the Police Station in the Amount of $22,437.76, Pursuant to CCMC Section 3.07.060.A THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: RECEIVE AND FILE A REPORT REGARDING THE
EMERGENCY REPLACEMENT OF THE WATER HEATER AT THE POLICE STATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $22,437.76, PURSUANT TO CCMC SECTION
3.07.060.A.
o0o
Item C-13
CC - Ratification of Approval of Consent Calendar Items to Include Consent Items C-13, C-14, C-15 and C-16 on the June 22, 2026 City Council Meeting Agenda
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: RATIFY THE APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 22, 2026
CITY COUNCIL MEETING CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS TO INCLUDE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-13, C-14, C-15, AND C-16.
15 July 13, 2026
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O'BRIEN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR FISH AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1, C-2, C-4 THROUGH C-9 AND C-11 THROUGH C-13.
Heather Baker, City Attorney, discussed conflicts for Mayor Puza and Council Member McMorrin requiring them to recuse themselves from Item C-3; noted that Council Member Vera would also recuse himself out of an abundance of caution; discussed the need for three Council Members to vote so one of the recused Council Members was legally required to participate and could
participate despite a disqualifying conflict of interest pursuant to Section 18705 of the FPPC (Fair Political Practices Commission) regulations; she indicated that the Council Member must be chosen by random selection; and she described the selection process set forth in FPPC regulations.
Vice Mayor Fish, Council Members McMorrin and Vera rolled a die with Council Member McMorrin rolling a higher number, allowing her to participate in the process.
Heather Baker, City Attorney, indicated that if there was no discussion of the item, Council Members could remain on the dais but not vote.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR FISH AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O'BRIEN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM C-3 . . THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
RECUSED:
FISH, MCMORRIN, O'BRIEN
NONE
PUZA, VERA
o0o
Public Hearing Items
Item PH-1
CC - Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Assessment and Ordering the Levy for the Sewer User's Service Charge for Fiscal Year 2026/2027
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
MCMORRIN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF NOTICES
AND CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED IN RESPONSE TO THE PUBLIC HEARING 16 July 13, 2026
NOTICES.
Yanni Dmitri, Public Works Director, introduced the item.
Mate Gaspar, Civil Engineering Manager, provided a summary of the material of record.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O'BRIEN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Puza invited public comment .
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, reported that one person had rescinded their request to speak.
Marta Valdez was called to speak but was not present in Council Chambers or online.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O'BRIEN
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Puza reported that a majority protest had not been received.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER O'BRIEN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ABSENT A
MAJORITY PROTEST, ADOPT A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT
AND ORDERING THE LEVY OF THE SEWER USER'S SERVICE CHARGE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027.
o0o
Item PH-2
CC - (FOUR FIFTHS VOTE REQUIRED) Adoption of an Interim Urgency Ordinance Extending a Moratorium on the Issuance of any New Building Permits or Entitlements for New Drive Through Uses for an Additional 10 Months and 15 Days
Council Member O'Brien chose to recuse himself out of an abundance of caution due to the number of businesses on Sepulveda that are part of the Chamber of Commerce.
Council Member O'Brien exited the dais.
17 July 13, 2026
Heather Baker, City Attorney, reported that Council Member Vera had chosen to recuse himself out of an abundance of caution on June 8, 2026 but due to the need for a 4/5 majority vote was chosen to participate through the roll of the dice and would carry through to any other items related to the moratorium.
Peer Chacko, Acting Planning Manager, provided a summary of the material of record noting that a newspaper notice was posted for the public hearing in compliance with code requirements with two in opposition to the proposed moratorium and one in opposition to the proposed In-N-Out Burger.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
MCMORRIN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF NOTICES AND CORRESPONDENCE.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
RECUSED:
FISH, MCMORRIN, PUZA, VERA
NONE
O'BRIEN
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER MCMORRIN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
RECUSED:
FISH, MCMORRIN, PUZA, VERA
NONE
O'BRIEN
Mayor Puza invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Mayor Puza exited the dais.
Paul Hewitt asked City Council to uphold the spirit of Culver City General Plan 2045 by adopting a 10 month moratorium on any new drive-thru permits; discussed the focus of General Plan 2045; community engagement starting in 2018 and approval of the General Plan in 2024; and lack of a place for future drive-thrus in the goals set.
Mayor Puza returned to the dais.
18 July 13, 2026
Teresa Klemic provided background on herself; expressed appreciation for the moratorium; and asked that the moratorium be extended to allow the proper paperwork to be done so that there are no more drive-thrus in Culver City.
Vanessa Martin expressed support for a ban; thanked the City Council for passing the 45 day moratorium; wanted to see the moratorium extended with an eventual ban; discussed weaponized terminology; indicated being an advocate for people with disabilities; noted that drive-thrus are terrible for people with disabilities and a detriment to their well-being and safety; preferred to see a business that generates significant tax revenue for Culver City and enhances quality of life; noted that downtown CUlver City had no drive-thrus and was a
beautiful, thriving, and profitable destination; and she asked the City Council to do better.
Therese Attias wanted to see the ban be permanent; asserted that the location was too close to an elementary school; discussed safety concerns with parents having to cross a wide driveway; and she expressed concern with probable difficulty making a left turn onto Hannum.
Leah Pressman expressed support for extending the temporary ban to allow staff time to draft a permanent ordinance to ban new drive-thrus; reported that Culver City had been ranked the most ozone polluted metro area nationally for the 26 th time in 27 years; and asserted that drive-thrus were obsolete noting that Culver City had not had an application for a drive-thru since the 1990s.
Cynthia Miller expressed support for a ban on drive-thrus; highlighted threats to public health; discussed costs to the public health system; and she noted the high number of drive thrus in the area.
Morgan Schwartz expressed support for development and In-N - Out, but not in Culver City; noted that there had not been any applications in a generation; expressed concern with the proposed location; discussed effects to the school community; distractions; pollution; ventilation to protect the workers that would be directed to the school; and he asked the City Council to prevent the proposed project.
Evan Pearson was called to speak but was not present in person or online.
19 July 13, 2026
Kathrin Rising was called to speak but was not present in person or online.
Thomas Soestini was called to speak but was not present in person or online.
Marci Baun, PRCS Vice Chair speaking on her own behalf, did not support a moratorium on all drive-thrus; stated that area residents should be listened to and the proposed development should not move forward; and she felt that projects should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Knox Gagnon reported living right next to the proposed In-N Out; urged the City Council to vote against a moratorium on new drive-thrus; discussed the ability of the proposed project to accommodate 50 cars without impacting traffic; comparisons with the In-N-Out in downtown Culver City that has a ten car capacity drive-thru; concerns raised about idling cars that fail to recognize modern technology that turns off engines; increased prominence of electric vehicles in California; proximity to bus routes; bike lanes; the walkable location; and he felt the project was crucial to much-needed third spaces in Culver City.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER MCMORRIN AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
RECUSED:
FISH, MCMORRIN, PUZA, VERA
NONE
O'BRIEN
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding the process; direction to prepare the permanent ordinance; appreciation to the community for their advocacy and engagement, to staff for their efforts, and to the Council Members for their consideration; congratulations to Emily Stadnicki in her new position; the response of In-N-Out; the importance of listening to the community and being open to changing one's mind; support for the extension; future land use in Culver City; ensuring that the zoning code reflects the vision adopted in General Plan 2045; establishing a clear vision for the future; reducing greenhouse gas emissions; ( ghg) improving air quality; encouraging walking biking and transit; creating safer streets; building more accessible and connected community; other cities that have adopted similar policies; creating a community less centered on automobile convenience; preserving neighborhood 20 July 13, 2026
character; and the approach of Long Beach to impose restrictions rather than a total ban.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding providing direction to the Planning Commission to examine feasibility of locations for drive-thrus; multi-use projects; the current i tern on whether to extend the urgency ordinance; direction already provided for a permanent ban; a suggestion to explore other flexible formats such as walk-up windows, curb-side delivery, and handicapped parking rather than feasible locations; compromise; providing options for future Councils; imposing a ban without knowing what the future holds; including an option; the ability of the Commission to provide feedback and a recommendation for a ban or to adopt different regulations; direction from the Mobility Subcommittee; and the motion made at the previous meeting to direct the Planning Commission to discuss a City-wide ban.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR FISH AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER MCMORRIN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE
EXTENDING A MORATORIUM ON THE ISSUANCE OF ANY NEW BUILDING
PERMITS OR ENTITLEMENTS FOR NEW DRIVE THROUGH USES FOR AN ADDITIONAL 10 MONTHS AND 15 DAYS WITH THE ITEM TO GO TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION TO MAKE A RECOMMENDATION BACK TO THE CITY
COUNCIL FOR A POTENTIAL BAN OR TO ADD OTHER OPTIONS THEY COME UP WITH.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
RECUSED:
FISH, MCMORRIN, PUZA, VERA
NONE
O'BRIEN
Council Member O'Brien returned to the dais.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
CC - (1) (FOUR FIFTHS VOTE REQUIRED) Adopt a Resolution to Accept the Certification of the Registrar of Voters As To The
Sufficiency of a Petition To Place A Parcel Tax Ballot Measure Before the Voters, Entitled "Culver City Public Schools 21 July 13, 2026
Excellence In Education Act Of 2026" and Place the Measure On The Ballot For The November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election; and (2) Instruction to the City Attorney to Prepare the Impartial Analysis for the Ballot Measure; and (3) Instruction to City Attorney to Prepare an Implementation Agreement Should the Measure Pass
Council Member McMorrin exited the dais.
Jeremy Bocchino, City Clerk, provided a summary of the material of record.
Vice Mayor Fish exited the dais.
Mayor Puza invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Darrel Menthe was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Ji Young Denick provided background on herself; was pleased to have the measure on the ballot; discussed the signature collection process; sending the message that education matters; and she hoped for City support until the election in November.
Vice Mayor Fish returned to the dais .
Darrel Menthe spoke as a proponent of the citizen's initiative; expressed pride in the work of the group to get the measure on the ballot; discussed signature collection; financial jeopardy experienced by Culver City Unified School District (CCUSD); volunteer efforts to get the item on the ballot; and he expressed appreciation for placing the measure on the ballot on behalf of all who have worked on it.
Council Member McMorrin returned to the dais.
Council Member Vera exited the dais.
Marta Valdez was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Lindsay Carlson indicated being a CCUSD School Board Member speaking in her own capacity; congratulated the Excellence for CUlver City Schools Team; discussed the hard work of the volunteers; appreciation for community members who signed the 22 July 13, 2026
petition; and she noted that it was the first time an entirely volunteer-based campaign qualified a local initiative for Culver City.
Jeanne Black indicated being a Planning Commissioner and Chair of CCUSD Measure E Citizen's Oversight Committee speaking in her own capacity; thanked community members, Council Members, and staff for their support and assistance; discussed the importance of education in the community; the structural deficit for CCUSD as a legacy of Prop 13; the sliding scale parcel tax; flat taxes; and the ability for seniors to opt out.
Council Member Vera returned to the dais.
Marci Baun was called to speak but did not respond.
Ross Piro indicated being one of the proponents of the measure; expressed appreciation for support received from all levels of the community; discussed volunteers; understanding that a strong community is led by strong schools; and expected passage of the measure in November.
Ray Long acknowledged the work of community volunteers; discussed the people-powered campaign to get the parcel tax on the ballot; appreciation for those who signed the petition; helping teachers, nurses, and school staff; and he noted the importance of strong schools for a better Culver City.
Daniel Sel provided background on himself; thanked everyone who helped make get the measure on the ballot; discussed research indicating that only 7% of people feel a strong connection to community where they live; and expressed pride in his community .
Travis Morgan indicated being a Bicycle and Pedestrian and Advisory Committee (BPAC) Member speaking on his own behalf; expressed support for comments about community made by the previous speaker; thanked all the volunteers who worked on the item; noted that CCUSD needed the money immediately; encouraged CCUSD to work on amending the i tern as soon as it passes; discussed large companies in the comm~nity; the $15,000 cap in the initiative; and profits made by Apple vs. the cap.
Jonathon Dilworth recognized EFFCCF volunteers for their efforts on the measure; discussed the broad coalition of residents united by the belief that strong public schools benefit the entire community; creating opportunities for children; and he and his children thanked community members who signed the 23 July 13, 2026
petition and the City Council for their consideration.
Andrew Lachman thanked the City Council for the opportunity to serve Culver City on the Finance Advisory Committee (FAC) noting that he had termed out; expressed appreciation to leaders and to the community for coming together; noted money taken from the City and CCUSD by the state and federal government; and the importance of investing responsibly in schools.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation to the speakers and to the volunteers for their work; unfunded mandates; unpredictability of state funding; creating certainty; and allowing for diversified options in education.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR FISH, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. (FOUR FIFTHS VOTE REQUIRED) ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO ACCEPT THE
CERTIFICATION OF THE REGISTRAR OF VOTERS AS TO THE SUFFICIENCY
OF A PETITION TO PLACE A PARCEL TAX BALLOT MEASURE BEFORE THE VOTERS, ENTITLED "CULVER CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION ACT OF 2026" AND PLACE THE MEASURE ON THE BALLOT FOR THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION; AND,
2. APPROVE THE CHOICE OF MEASURE LETTER A, OR AA, ORS; AND,
3. INSTRUCT THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE THE IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS FOR THE BALLOT MEASURE; AND,
4 . INSTRUCT THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN IMPLEMENTATION AGREEMENT SHOULD THE MEASURE PASS.
oOo
Item A-2
CC - (1) Review and Discuss the Proposed Increase of the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Rate from 14 percent to 16 percent; (2) If Desired, Direction to the City Manager to Return with a Resolution and Proposed Ordinance for Approval by the Voters and (3) Direction to the City Manager as Deemed
Appropriate
Council Member O'Brien indicated that they had not had time to receive a letter of advice from the FPPC but out of an abundance of caution he felt the need to recuse himself from the item and 24 July 13, 2026
he exited the dais.
Steve Agostini, Chief Finance Officer, introduced the item.
Adam Troy, Assistant City Manager, discussed outreach and response to concerns; time spent with hotel ownership groups; community meetings; balancing ensuring support for hotel groups with centering the community; public policy; putting forward the TOT (Transient Occupancy Tax) in the context of a general tax rather than a special tax; and acknowledging concerns of hotel groups and the community.
Steve Agostini, Chief Finance Officer, provided a summary of the material of record.
Adam Sonnenshine, FM3, provided a presentation on polling; discussed survey methodology; feedback received; comparisons with research conducted last year; and conclusions.
Mayor Puza invited public comment and clarified that time was no longer being ceded.
The following members of the public addressed the City Council:
Leo Grifka, Palihotel, provided background on himself; discussed investing in Culver City; asked the City Council to vote no on increasing the TOT; discussed challenges attracting tourism; competition for the opportunity to collect TOT; choosing Culver City over other area cities; concern with raising the cost of staying in Culver City; work to be done before Culver City becomes a premier destination; guests in Culver City that support jobs throughout the community; generating more revenue by attracting more visitors, not by charging them more; and he asked that Culver City be made easier to choose.
Simonette Grifka was called to speak but did not respond.
Danielle Goller, Culver Hotel, discussed the economic decision affecting every business in Culver City; increasing the TOT as taking away from the shared goal of more revenue to invest back into the community; federal pricing requirements; side by side comparisons; concern with having the highest hotel tax in LA county; concern with being put at a significant competitive disadvantage compared to more well-known locations; total decrease in revenue with lost business; the consistent deficit of leisure business in Culver City; concern with losing momentum toward building a tourism district to showcase Culver City; the 25 July 13, 2026
need to give people more of a reason to choose Culver City; and she asserted that they could not tax their way into becoming a destination but rather they needed to invest in becoming one.
Kevin Lachoff indicated speaking on behalf of the Executive Committee of the Culver City Chamber of Commerce; urged the City Council not to advance the proposed TOT; discussed the need to carefully consider whether the proposed tax would weaken one of the few competitive advantages which is price; competition for visitors; development of an identity as a leisure destination; establishing demand; concern that making stays more expensive would make neighboring cities easier to choose; he strongly urged the City Council to provide the funding and support the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) and Visit Culver City initiative; discussed time and effort in development of a visitor plan; unfunded steps to elevate Culver City's brand; and the need to grow the visitor base.
Travis Morgan indicated being a member of the BPAC speaking in his own capacity; characterized himself as a frugal person and a frequent traveler who never made a decision based upon a 2% price difference; discussed taxes in Seattle; the advantage of the CUlver Hotel and the Palihotel of being great hotels and great destinations, not that they are $4 cheaper per night; and he did not feel that the increase would have a negative effect.
Jeannine Wisnosky Stehlin indicated making many decisions based on price as a mother of a family of 5; discussed the CCUSD tax measure on the ballot; modest deficits in future years
referenced in the staff report; tax rate in other area cities; the vote to reject a temporary increase in Los Angeles; she questioned the data behind an assertion that the market can absorb the increase; discussed lack of evaluation of economic impact; the need for consultation with the hotel/motel
stakeholders; the General Fund tax that does not guarantee that the services emphasized would be funded; and she indicated that she was not opposed to a tax increase, but she did not feel that a case had been made for it.
Angelina Seiger was called to speak but indicated that her comments pertained to Comments for Items NOT On the Agenda.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for comments from the speakers; examination of raising taxes on short-term rentals only; application of the tax as currently in the statutes; the broad definition of hotel and motel in TOT provisions that includes short-term rentals; 26 July 13, 2026
bolstering economic vitality of the community as well as the business community; directing funding to support tourism among other uses; clarification that if the funds for the proposed tax were limited the tax would have to be changed to be a special tax requiring a 2/3 voter threshold; benefits to having a more general tax; the separate process for a TBID proposal; the tax on the individual staying in the hotels vs. on the hotels themselves; and staff outreach to the hotels.
Responding to inquiry, Leo Grifka indicated that no one had reached out to him, and Danielle Goller reported being contacted after the item was placed on the agenda.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding bringing in hotels to discuss potential effects; being open to feedback from the hotels; listening to the community whether feedback agrees with the proposed action or not; ensuring funding for the TBID; investing money in the future and betterment of Culver City vs. putting money in the General Fund; concern with supporting the 14-16% increase until conversations have been had; the tourism expansion program discussed as part of the 2026 budget; and outreach that has already taken place.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the presentation and data included; positive feedback received; acknowledgement that any taxation voters approve has an impact; tax rates for tourism districts in other area cities; potential loss of business if Culver City is out of line with neighboring cities; resolution of most of the long-standing structural deficit; being fiscally
responsible by continuing work to close the gap for future years; bringing in revenue to support important services and projects; meeting the needs of the community; and remaining competitive with cities in the region even with the proposed increase.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding appreciation for the work of staff and the consultants and for community feedback; support for moving forward with the proposed TOT increase; putting Culver City on par with other neighboring areas; investment and change that are drawing people into the community; Culver City as becoming a space where people want to be; polling and investment made in branding Culver City; the last update to the TOT in 2012; discomfort and difficulty with change; ensuring that Culver City continues to move forward; and the importance of continuing to provide services everyone 27 July 13, 2026
relies on.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding concern with lack of a guarantee on how the money would be used; losing the main advantage of pricing; concern with a lack of trust in the feedback from the hotels;
appreciation for feedback received that Culver City is going in the right direction; difficult decisions made to balance the budget and improve efficiencies; keeping Culver City competitive with neighboring cities; investing back into the visitor economy; expected increases in tourism and business travel; fiscal prudence in capturing revenue; using revenue through the budget process to strengthen the TBID; and keeping the tax general.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR FISH AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER MCMORRIN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO RETURN WITH A RESOLUTION AND PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR APPROVAL BY THE VOTERS.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: FISH, MCMORRIN, PUZA
NOES: VERA
RECUSED: O'BRIEN
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding openness to conversation with the business community; listening to public sentiment; the job of staff to implement City Council decisions; Measure RE; the Short Term Rentals Subcommittee; ensuring a policy around short-term rentals is in place in time for the Olympics; hiring a compliance company to help with collection of the TOT and enforcement; and ensuring all revenue is collected.
Council Member O'Brien returned to the dais.
oOo
Public Comment - Items Not on the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Puza invited public comment.
Alicia Ide, Management Analyst, read names of individuals who had signed up to provide Public Comment - Items Not on the Agenda at the start of the meeting.
28 July 13, 2026
Sheila Korsi reiterated her previous remarks regarding Better Overland noting that if it isn't broken, don't fix it; discussed traffic and red camera lights in the neighborhood; seniors who may have to walk farther and pay for parking in the future as a result of elimination of or reductions to street parking; impacts to EMT (Emergency Medical Transport) and deliveries; and she asked the City Council to remember families and to save Overland and Sepulveda.
Dan Witzling, Bioscience Los Angeles County, provided background on the organization; requested support for their annual Bioscience LA Week; discussed efforts to distinguish themselves from LA Tech Week; investment in the community; community engagement; equitable and inclusive partnerships; engaging in the current and future workforce; and he indicated their desire for partnership.
The City Council unanimously agreed to agendize future
consideration of support of Bioscience LA Week.
Raaj Shankla was called to speak but was not present in person or online.
Nancy Barba asked that the City Council agendize consideration of the Flock Safety License Plate Reader contract, examine whether abuses have occurred, determine how the contract could be terminated and the cameras removed, and explore covering cameras until real protections are in place; discussed
suspension of the LAPD Flock partnership after the Inspector General found that the department lacked enforceable rules on data ownership, privacy and sharing including with federal immigration authorities; she noted that they could not assume that their contract was any more secure; and she asked the City Council to act with the urgency the situation demanded.
Bryan Sanders discussed the 20 minute limit and asked that the City Council not limit public comment noting that it was not a procedural burden, but rather a basic function of local democracy; requested that the City follow data from the Tri School Mobility Study; encouraged moving forward with practical improvements identified by the study; expressed concern with a predetermined political outcome; discussed the need for the City to address documented infrastructure failures; runoff at Braddock and Elenda during major storms; noted that many homes did not have driveways; and he asked that Culver City invest in stormwater capacity, alley drainage, raised crosswalks, and infrastructure that works when residents need it most . 29 July 13, 2026
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding a request for a transparency report regarding Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs); public comment about ALPRs; other cities that have retired their contracts or refused the contract altogether; consensus from Mayor Puza, Vice Mayor Fish and Council Member McMorrin to direct staff to provide a
presentation from the Electronic Frontier Foundation or the ACLU (Americans Civil Liberties Union) or the Center for Police Equity regarding risks of the Flock system and a discussion of changing, ending, or overall review of the relationship with Flock; and staff agreed to work with CCPD to do outreach to those entities to see if a presentation could be accommodated by the next meeting.
Angelina Seiger stated that Council Members were elected officials to serve the public interest; referenced a statement on the cc.gov homepage that Council Members are elected to serve and improve the quality of life in the City; noted a statement on the League of California Cities page indicating that effective council leadership practice requires putting the community first in all matters; expressed concern with a lack of transparency leading people to lose confidence; she noted the ability to vote people in and vote them out as well; and she asked the City Council to listen to community opposition to the Better Overland project.
Natalie Fisher was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Brian Addison asked that the City Council and planners look closely at the planned development at Braddock and Lafayette; discussed concern with proximity of the parking entrance to the entrance of Linn Howe School; safety concerns with increased cars and traffic; families that walk and ride down Braddock daily to get to school; and he expressed concern with the project as working against making goals of Culver City a more walkable and bikeable place.
Council Member O'Brien asked that Mr. Addison reach out to the Planning Department noting that the item would go before the Planning Commission first.
Rene Rivas was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
30 July 13, 2026
Dora Rivas was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Eric Lu was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Cassidie Thomas was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Joy Rodriguez was called to speak but was not present online or in person.
Travis Morgan indicated being a member of the BPAC speaking in his personal capacity; complimented Save Overland speakers as an example of great democracy; reported walking the route with Denise Renteria; discussed outreach; he refuted comments from people indicating that they did not know about the project noting the choice not to participate two years ago; and he urged the Council Members who changed their minds and want the item to go to a vote to name one instance anywhere in the world where that has ever happened.
Khin Khin Gyi was called to speak but was not present online or in person .
oOo
Items from Council Members (Continued)
Council Member Vera asked that when the meeting is adjourned, that it be adjourned in memory of Earl Stanford Eskridge. oOo
Council Member Requests to Agendize Future Items
Vice Mayor Fish discussed planning a new recreation center in the Joint Powers Authority revenue uses and he received City Council consensus to use an upcoming budgeted civic assembly to start the process of getting community input into what the recreation center and community space could look like.
Council Member McMorrin expressed appreciation for the Vice Mayor's efforts to lift up civic assemblies noting that the Council, staff, and the community were able to see the process as an asset.
31 July 13, 2026
Mayor Puza noted that Los Angeles County had launched the pledge for shared prosperity to reduce poverty; discussed key goals; received unanimous City Council consensus to sign on to the pledge; he discussed the Climate Action Plan and received unanimous City Council consensus to direct the Center for Biological Diversity to perform ghg calculations and other environmental metrics on the City's food procurement; received consensus to agendize consideration of a potential new arts program to reimagine under-utilized spaces; discussed taking inventory of empty commercial spaces in Culver City; follow-up by the Cultural Affairs Commission; and the goal to have performances in vacant commercial spaces in Culver City.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding cost for use of the space; resources needed for insurance and to open, run, and administer the space; and agreement to ask Cultural Affairs staff to look into possibilities for art spaces in commercial vacant spaces.
City Council consensus was achieved for the following items:
• consideration of an off-cycle sponsorship for Dog Man: The Musical(O'Brien)
• consideration or creating a form for off-cycle requests (Fish)
• consideration of support for Bioscience LA Week (Unanimous) • receive a presentation from the Electronic Frontier
Foundation or the ACLU (Americans Civil Liberties Union) or the Center for Police Equity regarding risks of the
Flock system and a discussion of changing, ending,
covering, or overall review of the relationship with Flock ( Puza)
• use an upcoming budgeted civic assembly to start the
process of getting community input into what the recreation center and community space could look like (Fish)
• sign on to the Los Angels County Pledge for Shared
Prosperity (Puza)
• direct the Center for Biological Diversity to perform greenhouse gas (ghg) calculations and other environmental metrics on the City's food procurement (Puza)
• consideration of a potential new arts program to
under-utilized spaces with Cultural Affairs
investigate possibilities (Puza)
oOo
re imagine
staff to
32 July 13, 2026
Council Member McMorrin asked that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Johan Sebastian Duran Guerrero and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo who were killed by ICE agents; she expressed condolences to their families; and noted the importance of remembering that things are still happening and people need to be resolute in their values.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR FISH, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER VERA AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE MEETING BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF
JOHAN SEBASTIAN DURAN GUERRERO I LORENZO SALGADO ARAUJO I AND EARL STANFORD ESKRIDGE.
33 July 13, 2026
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:46 p.m., the City Council, Housing Authority Board, Parking Authority Board, Public Finance Authority, Redevelopment Financing Authority Board, and Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board adjourned in memory of Johan Sebastian Duran Guerrero, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, and Earl Stanford Eskridge, to a regular meeting to be held on July 27, 2026.
oOo
J remy Bocchino
CIT CUlver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CL e City Council and SECRETARY of the
Successor Agency to the CUlver City Redevelopment Agency Board, Redevelopment Financing Authority, Culver City Parking Authority, Culver City Public Finance Authority, and Culver City Housing Authority Board
Culver City, California
Culver City, California and CHAIR of the Successor
Agenc~ to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Board,
Redev lopment Financing Authority, Culver City Housing
Auth '~ity Board, Culver City Parking Authority, and Culver City Public Finance Authority
Date: July 27, 2026
34