1 MINUTES
Regular Meeting Notice of the
Gardena City Council
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
In order to minimize the spread of the COVID 19 virus, Governor Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 361. Please be advised that the Council Chambers are closed to the public and that some, or all, of the Gardena City Council Members, may attend this meeting telephonically.
The Regular Meeting Notice and Agenda of the Gardena City Council of the City of Gardena, California, was called to order at 7: 33 PM on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, via Zoom, Mayor Tasha Cerda presiding.
1. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Tasha Cerda; Mayor Pro Tem Rodney G. Tanaka; Council Member Mark E. Henderson; Council Member Art Kaskanian; and Council Member Paulette C. Francis; Other City Officials and Employees present: City Manager Clint Osorio; City Attorney Carmen Vasquez; and City Clerk Mina Semenza.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION - None
2. CLOSED SESSION - None
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Bianca Novoa and Ariana Duncan led the Pledge of Allegiance. Both Bianca and Ariana attend Amestoy STEAM Academy. Bianca was chosen because she is responsible, respectful, and always stives to be her best. Ariana was chosen because she is a very happy, kind, and enthusiastic leaner who strives for excellence in her performance.
4. INVOCATION
Presented by Mayor Pro Tem Rodney G. Tanaka
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.A Boards & Commissions Update - Senior Citizens Commission - Chair, Peggy Evans provided update and presented a video to update everyone on the events and programs that have taken place since March 2020, along with upcoming events and classes.
Mayor Cerda thanked Ms. Evans for the informative video presentation.
Council Members Henderson, Francis and Kaskanian thanked and expressed their appreciation and commended Ms. Evans and the Senior Citizen Committee for all the events and for being so active and staying young.
2 Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka added that our City has always and always will take care of our seniors and we have more programs in the South Bay than anyone else.
He shared that when his mother was alive, she took part in the seniors’ programs and the Senior Citizen Committee should be very proud for all that they do.
Ms. Evans confirmed that they are not going away and, she is trying to find another Senior Commissioner for the board, and she knows someone in her area who has shown interest.
5.B Recognition of Hong Lee (City Employee) and her efforts to curb violence against Asian Pacific Americans – Mayor Cerda read Hong Lee’s bio.
Program Coordinator of Public Works, Hong Lee came into the meeting and thanked the Gardena City Council, City Manager and all the Directors, and her colleagues for the recognition.
Mayor Cerda stated that she is sorry that she had to experience the initial hate crime, but to see that she turned it into something positive and how she is helping so many people is remarkable and is thankful that she is part of the City of Gardena.
Due to technical issues Mayor Cerda was logged off the Zoom meeting.
5.C Youth Engagement for Optimal Youth Development - Partnerships in Action - Presentation was made by Director of Recreation and Human Services, Stephany Santin.
Mayor Cerda asked if there is a charge for the Teen Summer Camp. Director Santin confirm that the event will be free-of-charge, thanks to the sponsorship of the Gardena Police Foundation, Charitable Funds, and GTrans and everyone involved that contributed to the event.
Council Member Francis added that this is a great program and w ants the program to be incorporated into the budget and wants the City to sustain the program because it is very important, especially for the young people.
Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka and Council Member Kaskanian commended, thanked and applauded Director Santin a nd staff for providing services to the youth during COVID and for all their hard work; Council Member Kaskanian thanked all the sponsors.
Council Member Henderson added now that this year is behind us after this first go around and as we get data and work it into our budget, we can have a discussion about institutionalizing these programs. He also thanked Director Santin for being proactive in leadership and mentioned he has also seen some resources available that we can institutionalize this for a 24-month period.
Public Speaker: Wanda Love was glad to hear about the youth programs and asked what programs existed for the teens prior to COVID. She also expressed her concerns about the need for Teens/Youth Programs and to create a budget line item to keep and maintain the programs year around.
3 5. PROCLAMATIONS - None
7. APPOINTMENTS – No Appointments were made
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
8.A Waiver of Reading in Full of All Ordinances Listed on This Agenda and that they Be Read by Title Only
CONTACT: CITY CLERK
8.B Approve Minutes:
Regular Meeting of the City Council, May 10, 2022
Special Closed Session Meeting, May 19, 2022
CONTACT: CITY CLERK
8.C Receive and File of Minutes:
Planning & Environmental Quality Commission, March 15, 2022 CONTACT: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
8.D Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, May 24, 2022 CONTACT: CITY TREASURER
May 24, 2022: Wire Transfer: 12166 -12167; Prepay: 167396 -167398; Check Nos:
167399 -167561 – for a total Warrants issued in the amount of $1,131,692.17 Total Payroll Issued for May 20, 2022: $2,024,763.04.
8.E Monthly Portfolio, March 2022
CONTACT: CITY TREASURER
8.F Personnel Report P-10 5-24-22
CONTACT: HUMAN RESOURCES
8.G RESOLUTION NO. 6579 , Making the legally required findings to Re -Authorize the use of Teleconferencing in accordance with Assembly Bill 361 for meetings of the Gardena City Council and other Commissions, Committees and Boards subject to State open meeting laws.
CONTACT: CITY MANAGER
RESOLUTION NO. 6579
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, MAKING THE LEGALLY REQUIRED
FINDINGS TO RE -AUTHORIZE THE USE OF
TELECONFERENCING IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASSEMBLY BILL
361 FOR MEETINGS OF THE GARDENA CITY COUNCIL AND
OTHER COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES AND BOARDS SUBJECT
TO STATE OPEN MEETING LAWS
4 8.H Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No.1840 : Adopting Chapter 18.74 to Title 18, Zoning, of the Gardena Municipal Code Relating to Reasonable Accommodations Policy and Procedures and Directing Staff to File a Notice of Exemption from California Environmental Quality Act Pursuant to the Common Sense Exemption
CONTACT: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
ORDINANCE NO. 1840
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 18.74 TO TITLE 18,
ZONING, OF THE GARDENA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS POLICY AND PROCEDURES
8.I Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 1841, Adopting a Military Equipment Use Policy of the City of Gardena, California Governing the Use of Military Equipment pursuant to Assembly Bill 481
CONTACT: POLICE DEPARTMENT
ORDINANCE NO. 1841
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A MILITARY EQUIPMENT
USE POLICY OF THE CITY OF GARDENA, CALIFORNIA
GOVERNING THE USE O F MILITARY EQUIPMENT PURSUANT
TO ASSEMBLY BILL 481
8.J Approve the GTrans Zero-Emission Fleet Transition Plan CONTACT: TRANSPORTATION
It was moved by Council Member Francis, seconded by Mayor Cerda , and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve all Items on the Consent Calendar with the exception of Items 8.D and 8.I:
Ayes: Council Member Francis, Mayor Cerda, Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, and Council Members Henderson and Kaskanian
Noes: None
Absent: None
9. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR
8.D CITY TREASURER - Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, May 24, 2022 - This Item was pulled by Council Member Francis
Council Member Francis asked for clarification about a payment that was made to the Lucky Lady Casino for over $30,000. City Manager Osorio explained the Economic Assistance agreement terms and gave examples for the current month. He also confirmed that it is not COVID 19 Economic Assistance. City Attorney Vasquez made Council Member Francis aware that she will be forwarding the agreement to her.
8.I POLICE DEPARTMENT - Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 1841 Adopting a Military Equipment Use Policy of the City of Gardena, California Governing the Use of Military Equipment pursuant to Assembly Bill 481 - This Item was pulled by Council Member Francis
5 Council Member Francis asked about the timeline for the annual report that is stated on the policy. City Attorney Vasquez explained the process and requirements of the item, once adopted including any new purchases. She also explained the meaning of uncodified ordinance. Police Chief Saffell added that all their policies are posted on their website and will stay there for transparency.
It was moved by Council Member Francis, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Item 8.D and
8.I:
Ayes: Council Members Francis and Henderson , Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Member Kaskanian, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
10. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMISSION ACTION SHEET
10.A MAY 17, 2022 MEETING
Site Plan Review #10-21 and Vesting Tentative Map No. 82437 (VMT #3-21) The Planning Commission considered a request for approval of a site plan review, a vesting tentative map, and a density bonus request, concession and development waivers in ac cordance with State Density Bonus Law, to develop 22 attached condominium townhomes, including two low -income affordable units, on a 0.72 - acrea lot in the General Commercial and Mixed-Use Overlay zones that qualified for a categorical exemption to the Cali fornia Environmental Quality Act as an Infill Development project.
Commission Action: The Planning Commission approved Resolution No. PC 8-22, by vote of 4-1-0, approving the project and directing staff to file a Notice of Exemption.
City Council Action: Receive and file or Call for Review (By way of two votes from the City Council)
Council Member Francis called for review – no second.
Council Member Henderson recused himself from the item.
Received and Filed
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
1. City Clerk Mina Semenza, noted for the record the emails received by the members of the public and that they have been forwarded to the City Council.
2. Wanda Love expressed her concerns regarding the required votes to pull an item from the Consent Calendar and questioned if the process is legal and is it a violation of the Brown Act.
6 Mayor Cerda asked City Attorney Vasquez to clarify and explain the following: the need for a second; the Brown Act, and how can the public obtain more in formation on the Planning Commission Item in question.
City Attorney Vasquez informed everyone that approximately a year ago , the Council voted to adopt in a publicized meeting that two votes are required for an item to be called for review, she also provided information on what other cit ies are doing in this matter. She was unable to determine what the question specifically was regarding the Brown Act; no comment was made. Also, informed everyone that a Public Hearing was held for the entire item, and it was publicized and came before the Planning Commission, and several members of the public participated on this item. Lastly, she stated that the Planning Commission Meeting is published in accordance, same procedure as if it was a Council Meeting.
Mayor Cerda clarified that only on a Planning Commission Action – two Council Members are required for an Item to be call ed for review. As it relates to the Consent Calendar just one person can call for review.
11. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
11.A RESOLUTION NO. 6580, Amending the Amended Budget for Fiscal Year 2021- 2022
RESOLUTION NO. 6580
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE AMENDED BUDGET
FOR SAID CITY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022
City Manager Osorio shared his presentation.
Council Member Henderson commented on the UUT and asked if there would be a reduction in receipts if our residents changed to solar; City Manager Osorio replied as you can see we have already adjusted the UUT and there is no change in the budget or actual; if something were to change we may have to amend mid-year; Council Member Henderson asked if we did have a mid -year amendment, would we just amend the line item or everything; City Manager Osorio replied we would change everything that would need to be approved.
Council Member Francis asked if the money we received from the American Rescue Plan goes into our General Fund; what about the COVID Relief Fund for businesses, is that separate? City Manager Osorio replied yes it went into our General Fund; the COVID Relief Fund is a little different, it’s the CARES funding , but to date, we still have a balance of $300,000 available to businesses that qualify under HUD guidelines. Council Member Francis then asked that we need this amendment because our revenues increased with American Rescue Plan? City Manager Osorio replied we are bringing this item to Council for approval because we had a significant change in revenue, if we did not do this now, it would have been a finding made by our auditors.
7 It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Adopt Resolution No. 6580
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Members Henderson, Kaskanian and Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
11.B Presentation of the City of Gardena's Proposed Two-Year Budget for Fiscal Years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024
City Manager Osorio shared his presentation.
Council Member Francis commented about receiving one-half of the $15M from the American Rescue Plan, and we claim a $11M loss, and that leaves a $4M balance, but I couldn’t find it where does it go ; City Manager Osorio replied that it’s built into the budget; the remainder goes back into the General Fund, it ’s to augment city services; Council Member Francis then commented on the $1.4M from Congresswoman Maxine Waters; City Manager Osorio replied that the $1.4M is for the CIP Program; Director of Administrative Services Ray Beeman came into the meeting and commented that the $1.4M is kept in a separate fund so that account can be maintained and keep track of; City Manager Osorio then explained that we don’t benefit from the West Basin money, we will benefit from the project cause it’s in Gardena; Council Member Francis then asked about the Rosecrans Community Center is the new name for the Chase building. City Manager Osorio explained that we do not want to keep calling it the Chase building. She then asked about the amendment; City Manager Osorio replied that the amendment was for last year’s expenditures; he stated this is an entirely new budget; we are doing a line-item budget. The balance sheet carries over which is your assets and liabilities.
Council Member Henderson asked if we could clarify or improve the language when it comes to Pension Obligation Bonds so the public has a clear understanding that these are bonds that went to the market, versus sending out to our voters; City Manager Osorio replied that our Pension Obligation Bond is not a General Obligation Bond, we are not incurring any debt, we refinanced it into a lower interest rate to save money.
Public Speaker: Wanda Love came into the meeting and voiced her concerns about the budget; she asked if some money could be put toward a youth program.
Council Member Henderson commented on getting the income statement and cash flow statement easily available for our residents to view. City Manager Osorio then replied that we have a Financial Dashboard on our website that is updated monthly and we are also having a Community Budget Forum on June 1, 2022 where the public can come and ask questions.
Council Member Francis then asked if our seniors get a discount on the UUT Tax and is it shown in the proposed revenue? Director Beeman said that is built-in and this is what we think we will get as far as rebates. She asked if our market takes a downturn are we going to be okay? Is our budget recession-proof? City Manager Osorio replied we sold our bonds in the open market, good news is that we sold everything; no budget is recession-proof, that’s why we have a 45% reserve; you saw that we were 8 at 30% before COVID and we went all the way down to 15%; that’s why we have rainy day fund. Council Member Francis asked if 45% is a little high ?: Director Beeman added that we work with HdL who projects our sales tax, it’s pretty conservative for the potential changes in the market conditions; we count on them to do statistic studies.
Council Member Francis commented and asked if we could add some additional funding for our you th program or an extra program for our seniors? She then asked about the vacant budgeted positions. City Manager Osorio replied we have some vacant budget positions that were eliminated. She then asked if the proposed budget is set in stone? City Manager Osorio replied we would pull from the General Fund Reserve; you as a body set the policy, you will have to approve it as a whole, it still can be amended; it is not set in stone. Council Member Francis asked if anything came up from the Budget Forum if it could be included,
Mayor Cerda commented about the general fund being used for programs like we mentioned instead of the reserve fund. Council Member Kaskanian commented on the youth program and asked how we would go about budgeting it every year. City Manager Osorio explained that it would come out of our revenue stream.
Council Member Henderson asked if we could use the funding that’s being used right now and see what our numbers look like in a few months and amend our budget mid- year and make any adjustments so we can see what it looks like so we can institutionalize the program. Mayor Pro Tem commented and agreed with Council Member Henderson; we can always amend the budget later.
Council Member Francis stated she was not thinking of putting ourselves into a deficit, I was just seeing where there was extra money; she then commented going back to the Capital Improvement Project are there specific amounts that are being allocated to each project ? City Manager Osorio replied these are the projects that we have listed so far based on the funding we have. Rowley Park would have to be looked at and funded at a different time. Director Beeman commented on what was available for Rowley, Thornburg, Bell, and Mas Fukai parks. It is budgeted for the future. City Manager Osorio stated that if the roof is leaking, we would cover it over the deferred maintenance fund, under catastrophic repairs . C ouncil Member Francis then commented with all the developments going up , we want to make our parks nice for families. Director Beeman then stated that the various park improvement line item could be used for Rowley Park. He then stated that we have a Master Park Plan and we have Measure A to see where we need it most.
Council Member Francis asked if the $353,000 can only be used for commercial rental assistance, is that correct? City Manager Osorio replied yes, it’s under the HUD guidelines. She also asked for confirmation that $166,000 was the payout so far with the Residential Emergency Rental Assistance Program . City Manager Osorio confirmed that was correct.
Received and Filed
9 11.C Single Audit Report Required for Federally Funded Programs for Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2021
City Manager Osorio shared his presentation.
Council Member Henderson, asked why do we elect not to take the 10%, since it is an administrative cost? Director Beeman answered the question by stating that our grants cannot afford it and some are senior grants, other types of grants, so if we charge that 10%, they would not be able to provide the services ; so we elect not to take that 10% and give it back to the program so that services can be provided.
Received and Filed
12. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
12.A RESOLUTION NO. 6578 , Authorizing the Community Development Department to Enforce the Requirements of AB 1276 - Single-Use Foodware Accessories and Standard Condiments
RESOLUTION NO. 6578
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT TO ENFORCE THE
REQUIREMENTS OF AB 1276 - SINGLE USE FOODWARE
ACCESSORIES AND STANDARD CONDIMENTS
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked what type of food accessories will no longer be allowed. City Attorney Vasquez confirmed that they are individualized packets like salt and pepper will no longer be given unless the consumer requests them ahead of time, the restaurant cannot automatically give them out.
Council Member Francis commented if this applies to sit-down and fast food, restaurants, and asked if there is a deadline for us to approve this? She also asked if this fall under Code Enforcement? Attorney Vasquez replied that is correct. We must have a designee by June 1, 2022 of who is going to enforce this, it will no longer be the Public Health Department. Yes, it will be under Code Enforcement.
Public Speaker: Wanda Love came on and voiced her opinion.
It was moved by Council Member Francis, seconded by Council Member Kaskanian, and carried by the following roll call vote to Adopt Resolution No. 6578:
Ayes: Council Members Francis and Kaskanian, Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Member Henderson, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
10 12.B Approve additional $350,000 in funding to pay BPR Consulting Group, Inc to Continue Providing Contracted Plan Check, Permitting, and Inspection Services.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Council Member Kaskanian commented on the following: 1) it seems like this cost has doubled ; 2) does this mean we are doing good, 3) if we are going to hire employees and 4) how much money have we collected? City Manager Osorio replied we don’t have the expertise that BPR currently has; if you hire someone permanent, we would have the added benefits, such as healthcare, pension, etc. This time we are just trying to clear out the backlog; for the $350,000 you’re paying, we are collecting $466,000; so we are in the positive.
Council Member Francis commented that she recalls receiving complaints from our constituents that they are still taking too long; she then said she thought part of the money was going to be for training our sta ff; she also asked how the long contract was for? She then asked if we are going to continue to pay $600,000 a year? How do you know the consultants are doing a good job? Is there a plan to evaluate?
Director of Community Development Greg Tsujiuchi came into the meeting and explained that when I started here the Building Official was contracted for several years so nothing has changed there; we could go out to recruit employees, but as of now there is a lot of development and it would be a hard time to recruit with that level of experience; he continued to say that he doesn’t think it’s feasible right now; as far as inspection services the city is down 1 inspector, we have to resort to contracted services; he indicated that he did request an additional ins pection in the proposed budget. At the moment, Gardena is booming, we have a lot of projects going on and we will need two full time and 1 part time inspectors; the other position that we budgeted for is a permit technician so we could replace the contract ed permit technician. Director Tsujiuchi stated that our plan for the next fiscal year is to bring in those positions that were discussed; he also indicated that we did have a customer service survey that our consultant is bringing back that we are about to implement.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Additional Amount Requested:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Members Henderson, Kaskanian and Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
13. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ELECTED & CITY MANAGER'S OFFICES
13.A COVID-19 Update
City Manager Osorio presented the update.
14. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS – POLICE – No Items
11 15. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - PUBLIC WORKS
15.A Award Professional Services Contract for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program Management Services for Fiscal Year 2022 - 2023, 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 in the amount of $689,193 to CWE Corporation.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Council Member Francis commented and asked if we already contract with CWE? Is this an extended contract? Is this for storm water? How do we know they are doing a good job?
City Manager Osorio replied yes, this contract is for the next two years. They are able to provide the services, our staff evaluates them; Public Works does the evaluation, they are doing a good job.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Tan aka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Professional Services Contract:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Members Henderson, Kaskanian and Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
15.B PUBLIC HEARING : RESOLUTION NO. 6556 , Confirming the Diagram and Assessment contained in the Engineer's Report dated April 26, 2022 for the Gardena Artesia Boulevard Landscape Assessment District and ordering the levy of assessments on the same for Fiscal Year 2022-2023.
RESOLUTION NO. 6556
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, CONFIRMING THE DIAGRAM AND
ASSESSMENT CONTAINED IN THE ENGINEER'S REPORT
DATED APRIL 26, 2022, FOR THE GARDENA ARTESIA
BOULEVARD LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND
ORDERING THE LEVY OF ASSESSMENTS ON THE SAME FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda opened the Public Hearing at 10:39 p.m. and asked if there were any comments from the public.
No Public Speakers.
Being there was no further comment, Mayor Cerda closed the Public Hearing at 10:40 p.m.
12 It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Council Member Kaskanian, and carried by the following roll call vote to Conduct Public Hearing and Adopt Resolution No. 6556:
Ayes: Council Members Henderson and Kaskanian, Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Member Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
15.C PUBLIC HEARING: RESOLUTION NO. 6557, Confirming the Diagram and Assessment contained in the Engineer's Report dated April 26, 2022, for the Gardena Consolidated Street Lighting Assessment District and ordering the levy of assessments on the same for Fiscal Year 2022-2023.
RESOLUTION NO. 6557
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, CONFIRMING THE DIAGRAM AND
ASSESSMENT CONTAINED IN THE ENGINEER'S REPORT
DATED ARPIL 26, 2022, FOR THE GARDENA CONSOLIDATED
STREET LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND ORDERING
THE LEVY OF ASSESSMENTS ON THE SAME FOR FISCAL YEAR
2022-2023
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda opened the Public Hearing at 10:42 p.m. and asked if there were any comments from the public.
Council Member Francis asked how much the increase was and will it be put on property taxes. City Manager Osorio made her aware that he did not have the details of the calculation, but typically is about 3% per parcel.
No Public Speaker.
Being there was no further comment, Mayor Cerda closed the Public Hearing at 10:43 p.m.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Conduct Public Hearing and Adopt Resolution No. 6557:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Members Henderson, Kaskanian and Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
13 15.D RESOLUTION NO. 6577, Adopting a list of projects for Fiscal Year 2022 -2023 funded by SB1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.
RESOLUTION NO. 6577
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 FUNDED BY SB 1: THE ROAD REPAIR
AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT of 2017
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Council Member Francis wanted to confirm if the list would include 135th Street; Crenshaw down to Vermont; 139 th down to El Segundo and Rosecrans. Also wanted to know if it’s possible to add to the list or is it a final list. Director of Public Works Allan Rigg came into the meeting and explained the details and funding of the projec t. He also confirmed that the streets mentioned by Council Member Francis will not be funded.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Adopt Resolution No. 6577:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Members Henderson, Kaskanian and Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
15.E Award Construction Contract for the Gardena Community Aquatic and Senior Center Project - Demolition Phase, JN 978 to Interior Demolition, Inc. in the amount of $160,930 and approve the Project Plans & Specifications.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked what happens if the contract or determines that he requires additional money because he estimated the interior demolition incorrectly; are we going to come back and say we need more money or do we move on to the next bidder, or do they forfeit? Director of Public Works Allan Rigg stated that they had the same thoughts and confirm that they have done their due diligence and have a very tight package and that it would be very difficult for the contractor to have any type of claims that there were unforeseen conditions or that we did not describe the scope of work adequately.
Secondly, based on the concerns that the bid number was low, Principal Engineer, Kevin Kwak reached out to the contractor and asked if any mistakes were made, contractor confirm that they are ready, willing, and able to do the work.
It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Council Member Kaskanian, and carried by the following roll call vote to Award Construction Contract and Approve the Project Plans and Specifications:
Ayes: Council Members Henderson and Kaskanian, Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Member Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
14 16. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - RECREATION & HUMAN SERVICES – No Items
17. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS – TRANSPORTATION – No Items
18. COUNCIL ITEMS - None
19. COUNCIL DIRECTIVES
Council Member Francis
1. Gardena Beautification Committee – Can we find out if the city can engage with West Basin water consultant to see how we could improve our park and city scape and become drought tolerant; Council Member Henderson asked if we could have conversation about capturing the stormwater. Council Member Henderson seconded it.
2. Wanted to follow-up regarding The Wall that Heals; did we send out a letter to invite them back; City Manager Osorio replied that he does not yet have a response to her directive.
20. CITY MANAGER REMARKS RE: DIRECTIVES / COUNCIL ITEMS
City Manager Osorio gave a verbal report of information to follow -up on matters that had been directed or requested by the Mayor and Members of Council. Those items were, as follows:
1. Pending Memo – The Wall that Heals is forthcoming.
2. Pending Memo – The cost for the one-page survey for all the addresses in the city.
Rough estimate cost in the amount of $25,000.
3. Memo regarding the Community Development Department monthly report update.
4. Video presentation highlighting the Recreation and Human Services Department current and future events:
• Fun In The Sun Senior Day, Thursday, May 12, 2022 at the City Hall Complex Lawn from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Gourmet Chef Fest & Show and Shine Car Exhibit at Rowley Park on Saturday, May 14, 2022.
• Save the Date! Healthy Pet Clinic, Sunday, May 15, 2022, 10:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. at the Nakaoka Community Center.
• Free Youth Baseball & Softball Skills Clinics. Clinic registration begins Friday, May 6, 2022, at 8:00 a.m., www.cityofgardena.org/events. • "Gardena On The Go" Trip to the LA County Fair, Thursday, May 19, 2022. • Kids to Park Day – Join Us Saturday, May 21, 2022; 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Arthur Lee Johnson Park.
Upcoming Events
• Gardena Youth in Government Day, Thursday, May 26, 2022; 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Gardena City Hall Complex.
• Candlelight Dinner & A Show, Friday, May 27, 2022; 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at City Hall Complex Lawn. Pre -Register required, call the Senior Bureau Office at (310)217-9552 or register online at www.cityofgardena.org/events. • Youth Baseball & Softball – Registration period Satur day, May 21, 2022 – Saturday, June 4, 2022; www.cityofgardena.org/events.
• 2022 Budget Forum - Come and Join us at City Hall on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
15 • City of Gardena is hosting a Summer UCLA Blood Drive on Thursday, June 2, 2022; 9:00 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Ruch Gym.
• Bring It On The BLVD Downtown Street Fair, Saturday, June 4, 2022, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Join Us between Berendo Avenue to Vermont Avenue - Gardena Blvd.
• Gardena Sandlot! – Come out for a “World Series” Day full of fun. Enjoy a Ball Park Lunch, Music, and Stary to Play! Saturday, June 11, 2022; 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at Freeman Park 2100 W. 154th Pl., Gardena.
• Teen Summer Camp 2022 – For Teens 12-17 on June 13 to August 12; Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Nakaoka Community Center. Registration begins Wednesday, June 1, 2022, www.cityofgardena.org/events. • The Annual Flag Day Celebration – City Hall Lawn on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at 11:00 a.m.
• Juneteenth – Acknowledge/Educate/Celebrate, Saturday, June 18, 2022, 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., City Hall Complex.
• City of Gardena’s Dodger Day, Friday, July 8, 2022. Game start time 7:10 p.m.
Come enjoy a night of baseball followed by a firework show.
21. COUNCIL REMARKS
1) COUNCIL MEMBER HENDERSON - Since the last meeting Council Member Henderson attended the Gardena car show, supply chain forum at the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach, he was a panelist at a forum regarding inflation, and attended an event at Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters. Lastly, asked to pray for the families in Buffalo, New York, Laguna Woods California, and Uvalde, Texas.
2) COUNCIL MEMBER FRANCIS - Since the last meeting Council Member Francis attended the Candidate’s Forum and shared another Candidate For um will be taken place on Thursday, May 26 at Rowley Park at 6pm. Also attended Gourmet Festival and Car show at Rowley Park. Council Member Francis mentioned the end of May concludes Asian American Pacific Island month. Shared it’s important that everyone speaks out about hate crimes and the importance on teaching children that hate is wrong. To report a hate crime, visit www.lavshate.org and fill out the online registration. Council Member Francis mentioned at the end of May is Memorial Day and it’s a day to honor the Unites Military. She encouraged everyone to participate in a Memorial Day event. Lastly, encouraged everyone to stay safe and better days are coming.
3) MAYOR PRO TEM TANAKA - Since the last meeting Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka attended the car show and complimented Director Santin and staff for doing a great job. Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka also attended the COG’s Committee Meeting, he had lunch with Assemblyman Muratsuchi regarding a bill on homeless, attended Closed Session meeting, met with Senator Ben Allen regarding his support of a SB housing trust. Mayor Pro Tem stated Ben Allen is pushing very hard for it and is trying to find funding. Also attended Parks & Rec National Kids Day at Joh nson Park, attended memorial for Ms.
Kim of Gardena Cinema, and Coffee with a Cop. Congratulated Ms. Lee as an Asian American he applauds her for what she’s doing. Lastly, Memorial Day is coming up and asked everyone to remember all those that sacrificed their life.
16 4) MAYOR CERDA - Since the last meeting Mayor Cerda attended the Public Works week event and complimented the department on its customer service. Mayor Cerda also attended the Finance Committee meeting, League of Women Voters Candidate Forum, drive by birthday for Mr. Dixon who turned 80 years old, and thanked Gardena PD and Fire for coming out. Attended the monthly CCGA meeting, sanitation meeting, the Medal of Valor luncheon; thanked all the first responders for all that they do. Also, shared she attended City view groundbreaking project at El Segundo and Crenshaw, Kids Day at Arthur Johnson, thanked the Parks and Rec staff for all their hard work. Lastly, attended the Funeral services for Nancy Kim of the Gardena Cinema.
5) COUNCIL MEMBER KASKANIAN - Since the last meeting Council Member Kaskanian attended Fun under the Sun with the Seniors, Public Works week event and was able to drive a forklift. Council Member Kaskanian also attended the car show, there was a lot of cars, and he was one of the judges. On Saturday he also attended Ms. Kim’s funeral with his colleagues, afterwards he attended the Nat ional Kid’s Day. Complimented Stephany, Nikki and staff for doing a great job. Attended the Medal of Valor and congratulated all the recipients. Lastly, attended the Finance Committee meeting and thanked City Manager Osorio and Director Beeman.
22. ANNOUNCEMENT(S)
Mayor Cerda announced:
1. Save the Date - Gardena 12th Annual Food, Wine & Brew; Saturday, September 24, 2022, 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Gardena City Hall Complex.
2. Summer Day Camp at Freeman and Johnson Park, June 13 to August 12 . For more information you can contact Parks and Recreation at (310)217 -9537, please visit our social media pages and City of Gardena website.
3. Candidate Forum – Sponsored by the Gardena Holly Park Homeowners Association for Gardena Mayor and City Council Members, and Gardena City Treasurer Candidates, on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at Rowley Park Auditorium 13220 Van Ness Ave, Gardena.
23. REMEMBRANCES
Mrs. Esther Barbick, 102 years of age an d a long-time Gardena Resident. Mrs. Barbick passed away on May 9, 2022. She was recently honored on her 102nd birthday by the Mayor, Police and Fire Departments with a drive -by celebration. Mrs. Barbick is survived by her two daughters, Annie Roddy, member of COPCAP, and Elinor Barbick; Kathy Marie Adams, 71 years of age and beloved mother of Kim Nolan, Administrative Analyst II, who works in our Public Works Department; In Memory of the 18 students and 1 teacher, that passed away, including the shooter; The 10 people, that were killed in the mass shooting in Buffalo, New York on May 14th; Dr. John Cheng, was the lone person killed in the mass shooting that occurred on May 15th in Laguna Woods.
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24. ADJOURNM ENT
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At 11 :28 p.m., Mayor Cerda adjourned the Gardena City Council Meeting to the Clo,sed Session portion of the City Council Meeting at 7:00 p.m., and the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.
MINA SEMENZA
City Clerk of the City of Gardena and
Ex-officio Clerk of the Council
Tasha Cerda, Mayor
By: !1Jet,,!?f: /2(rWtiM
Becky Romero, Deputy City Clerk
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