1 MINUTES
Regular Meeting of the
Gardena City Council
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
The Regular Meeting Notice and Agenda of the Gardena City Council of the City of Gardena, California, was called to order at 7:50 PM on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, in the Council Chamber at City Hall 1700 West 162nd Street, Gardena, California; Mayor Cerda presiding.
1. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Tasha Cerda; Mayor Pro Tem Paulette C. Francis; Council Member Mark E. Henderson; Council Member Rodney G. Tanaka; and Council Member Wanda Love; Other City Officials and Employees present: City Manager Clint Osorio; City Attorney Carmen Vasquez; City Clerk Mina Semenza; and Deputy City Clerk Becky Romero.
2. CLOSED SESSION - None
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION - None
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION - None
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Leilani Jordan and Jonathan Jordan led the Pledge of Allegiance. Both attend Denker Avenue Elementary School. Leilani and Jonathan are brother and sister who regularly attend Gardena City events, in addition, they are active participants in the City’s Base ball and Basketball leagues, Youth Day Camps, and After School Programs.
4. INVOCATION
Deacon Joe Henry, New Direction Community Church, gave the Invocation.
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.A Boards and Commissions Update - Rent Mediation Board – Chairman, Jack Nemeth provided the update.
5.B Certificates of Commendation in Special Recognition of Retirements and Long - Time Service to the City of Gardena:
(a) Hugo Gualotuna, Police Officer- 21 years - (Gardena Police Department) - Chief of Police, Mike Saffell gave recognition to Police Officer Hugo Gualotuna, who was unable to be present tonight.
Mayor Cerda thanked him for his service.
5.C Certificate of Commendation presented to Martel London for his heroic efforts - Mayor Cerda asked Council Member Love if she would like to say a few words as to why this stood out and thought it was befitting to recognize.
Council Member Love expressed her appreciation and thanked him for his heroism.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 2 Chief of Police, Mike Saffel l introduced and presented the Certificate of Commendation to Martel London for his bravery and heroic efforts and read the report that explained what transpired on the day of the traffic collision.
5.D Gardena Events Video Presentation - the video presented highlighted the Recreation and Human Services Department past and future events.
6. PROCLAMATIONS
6.A "Challenge the Norm and Influence of Marijuana Use on Youth Day" April 20, 2023 - accepted by Tracy Saruwatari
6.B "National Library Week," April 23 through April 29, 2023 - accepted by Friends of the Library, President Eleanor Bersano and Sarah Harper, Library Manager of Mayme Dear Library.
6.C "Cinco de Mayo Celebration Day" - May 5, 2023 - accepted by the Cinco de Mayo Festival Committee Chair Susana Medina and other members of the committee.
6.D "Older Americans Month" - May 2023 – was proclaimed by Mayor Cerda.
6.E "Municipal Clerk’s Week" - April 30, 2023 - May 6, 2023 – accepted by City Clerk Mina Semenza.
7. APPOINTMENTS
7.A Planning and Environmental Quality Commission - Ronald Wright-Scherr - was Appointed by Council Member Love
Council Member Love introduced Mr. Wright -Scherr and stated she looks forward to having him represent her on the Council.
Mr. Wright-Scherr expressed his appreciation to the Mayor and all Members of the Council.
It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Appoint Ronald Wright-Scherr to the Planning and Environmental Quality Commission:
Ayes: Council Member Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
Mayor Cerda made a motion to take Item 13.B out of order.
13.B PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of a Resolution to Approve a Mitigated Negative Declaration, Conditional Use Permit and Site Plan Review for a 190,860 Square Foot Warehouse Building in the Industrial Zone
LOCATION: 1600 and 1606 W. 135th Street (APNs: 6102-013-026, 027) APPLICANT: Gardena Owner LP
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 3 RESOLUTION NO. 6626
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
AND SITE PLAN FOR A 190,860 SQUARE FOOT WAREHOUSE
BUILDING LOCATED AT 1600 W. 135TH STREET
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report and noted for the record a correction: The Agenda Report reads that the item was Called for Review by Council Member Love and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis. The correct motion is: Mayor Pro Tem Francis Called the item for Review and Council Member Love seconded it; just wanted to clarify this for the record.
At 8:44 p.m ., Mayor Cerda announced that the Public Hearing was open. She asked if anyone had asked to speak on this item and if Council had any comments or questions.
Senior Planner, Amanda Acuna gave the PowerPoint presentation.
Jason Hines, Applicant was present and gave a PowerPoint presentation.
Public Comments: Jose Rodelio, member of Liuna and Rene A lvarez spoke in support of the proposed project.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis thanked Staff and the Applicant for the presentations; she then asked the following questions: who owns the property now; what was being manufactured by the previous tenant; how did clean-up process go; was there any residue left over; whose going to occupy the building; is there going to be a Phase I & II; is it going to be some type of warehouse with 22 docks; what types of businesses and what type of quality jobs would be put in there that are making $80,000 a year; she then stated usually warehouses don’t require a high number of staff; and mentioned this c ensus track is a disadvantaged community; 220 spaces for cars is a lot so those are extra vehicles in our community.
Mr. Hines explained the proposed project in detail and answered all questions.
Sarah Drobis and Lauren Mullarkey-Williams of Gibson Transportation Consultants explained the traffic assessment in detail. Also present was Yliana Ortega of Harrison Associates who assisted with the CEQA for the project.
Council Member Henderson spoke and stated he was in support of the project ; he continued to say that modernizing some of our old buildings and making them new facilities will attract new projects.
Council Member Tanaka stated he appreciates that the project is a forward-thinking company; and how it is going to be beneficial for our city and ergonomically correct for the future, and he supports the project.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 4 Council Member Love stated that with her being pro -business and with all the housing, she likes the balance and is excited and supports the project; she then asked about the t ruck vehicles and if the parking is for personal electric vehicles; she also mentioned that she was happy about how the cu rrent materials are being recycled;
Mayor Pro Tem Francis then spoke and said that e lectric trucks are bogging down the road, maybe not quite yet but it is coming one day ; she spoke about one day she counted 12 gray vans passed by as she waited at a light; and then stated this still is a disadvantaged community and she has some concerns whether trucks are electric or gas powered , all the new development going up; traffic congestion , the additional cars, and how this is not quite in agreement with the Housing Element.
Mayor Cerda thanked the Applicant and Amanda for a great project and stated how it is going to be very beneficial for Gardena; She appreciates all the people who came out tonight to show their support; she th en spoke about Genex us and feels confident that the previous two tenants on your other properties are good for Gardena and this one will be as well; in my opinion I haven’t seen th e abundance of more cars as of yet; Overall, it’s going to beneficial we have a lot of older buildings and it’s re-vitalizing Gardena.
At 9:29 p.m., Mayor Cerda then announced that the Public Hearing was closed.
It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Council Member Tanaka, and carried by the following roll call vote to Conduct a Public Hearing, please allow three (3) minutes for each speaker, and Adopt Resolution No. 6626, Upholding the Decision of the Planning Commission:
Ayes: Council Members Love, Tanaka and Henderson, and Mayor Cerda Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis
Absent: None
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:
Amended Regular Meeting of the City Council, March 14, 2023 Regular Meeting of the City Council, March 28, 2023
CONTACT: CITY CLERK
8.C Receive and File of Minutes:
Planning & Environmental Quality Commission, March 21, 2023 CONTACT: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
8.D Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, April 11, 2023 CONTACT: CITY TREASURER
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 5 April 11, 2023: Wire Transfer: 12352 -12365; Prepay: 171202 -171204; Check Numbers: 171205 -171356 for a total Warrants issued in the amount of $3,852,182.43; Total Payroll Issued for April 7, 2023: $1,819,949.60.
8.E Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, April 25, 2023 CONTACT: CITY TREASURER
April 25, 2023: Wire Transfer: 12366 -12380; Check Numbers: 171357 -171563 for a total Warrants issued in the amount of $3,65 6,653.51; Total Payroll Issued for April 21, 2023: $2,176,341.35.
8.F Monthly Investment Report, March 2023
CONTACT: CITY TREASURER
8.G Personnel Report P-2023-6 4-25-23
CONTACT: HUMAN RESOURCES
8.H RESOLUTION NO.6625 , Authorizing Execution of Agreement Number 22 -14841 with the California Department of Technology
CONTACT: ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
RESOLUTION NO. 6625
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING
EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT NUMBER 22-14841 WITH THE
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY
8.I Approve Amendment No. 4 to Funding Agreement between the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the City of Gardena for the On - Street Bus Signal Priority System Project
CONTACT: TRANSPORTATION
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis , seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve all Items on the Consent Calendar with the exception of Item 8.E:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson, Tanaka and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
9. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR
8.E CITY TREASURER - Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, April 25, 2023 - Item pulled by Mayor Pro Tem Francis
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked about the Economic Assistance Agreement for the Lucky Lady Casino. She noticed the amount was less and asked about the time period; she stated she also remembers it being tied to a hotel ; she mentioned the reason she brings this up is that the 2028 Olympics are coming and it would be nice if we had a new establishment.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 6 City Manager Osorio and City Attorney Vasquez replied to her question.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Item 8.E:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Member s Love, Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
10. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMISSION ACTION SHEET
10.A APRIL 4, 2023 MEETING - Meeting Cancelled
10.B APRIL 18, 2023 MEETING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #1-23
The Planning Commission reviewed the applicant's request to continue the project to Planning and Environmental Quality Commission meeting on May 16, 2023.
LOCATION: 1425 West Artesia Boulevard Unit #21-22 APPLICANT: Tim Mao
Commission Action: The Planning Commission opened the public hearing and continued the item to the May 16, 2023, meeting.
City Council Action: No City Council action is needed.
This Item Required No Action by City Council.
10.C APRIL 18, 2023 MEETING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #2-23
The Planning Commission considered a request for a conditional use permit, per section 18.030.030.A of the Gardena Municipal Code, to allow the on -site sale and consumption of beer and wine in an existing restaurant located in the Commercial (C-2) zone and direct staff to file a Notice of Exemption as an existing facilities project.
LOCATION: 1420 West Redondo Beach Boulevard Suite A
APPLICANT: Stanley Szeto
Commission Action: The Planning Commission approved Resolution No. PC 7 - 23, approving Conditional Use Permit #2 -23 and directed staff to file a Notice of Exemption, by a vote of 4-0-0.
City Council Action: Receive and file or Call for Review (By way of two votes from the City Council)
This Item was Received and Filed.
10.D APRIL 18, 2023 MEETING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #3-23
The Planning Commission considered a request for a conditional use permit, per section 18.32.03.B of the Gardena Municipal Code, to allow the on -site sale and DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 7 consumption of beer and wine in an existing restaurant located in th e General Commercial (C-3) and Mixed -Use Overlay (MUO) zones and direct staff to file a Notice of Exemption as an existing facilities project. LOCATION: 15410 South Western Avenue #B
APPLICANT: Sean Kim (Kyodong Noodle)
Commission Action: The Planning Commission approved Resolution No. PC 8 - 23, approving Conditional Use Permit #3 -23 and directed staff to file a Notice of Exemption, by a vote of 4-0-0.
City Council Action: Receive and file or Call for Review (By way of two votes from the City Council)
This Item was Received and Filed.
11. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
1) City Clerk Mina Semenza, noted for the record that three (3) emails were received from the pub lic, Council was provided copies and copies were put in the Public Review binder that is at the back of the Council Chamber.
2) Andre Moore came out to raise awareness for our community regarding tax fraud. 3) Herman Bailey, resident: came out to speak and congratulate our graffiti committee in Gardena for doing a great job. He wishes we could maintain the red curbs and paint them red. He also sees a lot of abandoned furniture.
4) Sarah Harper , representative of Mayme Dear Library; came to announce library upcoming events happening at the Mayme Dear and Masao W. Satow Libraries.
11.A PUBLIC COMMENT – Two (2) public comments were included as part of the agenda packet.
12. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES - No Items
13. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
13.A New Entertainment Permit to Allow Karaoke for Sushibei #1 located at 2021 West Redondo Beach Boulevard Suites F and G
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked why this item was not included with the planning items.
City Attorney Vasquez replied to her question.
It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve a New Entertainment Permit for Sushibei #1 at 2021 West Redondo Beach Blvd, Suites F and G:
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 8 Ayes: Council Members Tanaka and Henderson, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Member Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
13.C INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 1851 , an Ordinance of the City of Gardena, California, Adopting by Reference the 2022 Edition of the California Building Standards Code (California Code Of Regulations, Title 24), Except for the Fire Code, and Making Amendments thereto; Adoption of the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code; Repealing Chapter 15.08 of the Gardena Municipal Code; and Finding the Action Exempt from the California Environm ental Quality Act Pursuant to the Common Sense Exemption of CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(B)(3)
ORDINANCE NO. 1851
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF GARDENA, CALIFORNIA,
ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2022 EDITION OF THE
CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE (CALIFORN IA
CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24), EXCEPT FOR THE FIRE
CODE, AND MAKING AMENDMENTS THERETO; ADOPTION
OF THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
CODE; REPEALING CHAPTER 15.08 OF THE GARDENA
MUNICIPAL CODE; AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT FROM
THE CALIFORN IA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
PURSUANT TO THE COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION OF CEQA
GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(b)(3)
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public speakers.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked for confirmation if we are bringing our City Ordinances in align with the State; and then asked what happens if we are not in compliance with the code?
City Manager Osorio and City Attorney Vasquez replied to her question.
Ordinance No. 1851 was introduced by Council Member Tanaka.
It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Introduce Ordinance No. 1851 and set a Public Hearing on the adoption for the meeting of May 23, 2023:
Ayes: Council Member Tanaka, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 9 13.D Report on Measures Taken to Alleviate New Significant Tobacco Retailers From Establishing in the City
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked about the extension.
City Attorney Vasquez replied to her question.
Mayor Cerda made a Motion to Receive and File Report.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Accept and Approve and Issue the attached report which describes the measures taken thus far to alleviate new significant tobacco retailers from establishing in the City.
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Love, Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
14. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ELECTED & CITY MANAGER'S OFFICES
14.A Approval of One-Year Agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. for Legislative Advocacy and Grant Funding Services in the amount of $84,000
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
A PowerPoint Presentation was done by Niccolo DeLuca , Vice President of Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public speakers.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked about the term of the agreement; what was it was like before you r company came on board; she asked about comparisons ; she then asked are we doing better with your efforts, and is that why we received the $7M; Council Member Love – asked for clarification out of the $7M that the City has received, and asked to be corrected if she was wrong , that Mayor Pro Tem Francis had initiated the $2M for Gardena Boulevard; Mayor Cerda initiated the money for the Senior Center and Council Member Henderson was behind the money for the equity grant; she then asked if she was correct?
Mayor Cerda stated that was not correct.
Council Member Love stated that she heard that the elected officials asked the local elected officials about these grants. She asked Mr. DeLuca if his company did the paperwork; and asked if his company goes behind the elected officials DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 10 Mr. DeLuca replied and explained their process.
Council Member Love – asked our City Manager if our staff is qualified to do these applications? She then asked Mr. DeLuca out of the additional funding request; how much do you realistically think we are going to get? She stated that she has a great relationship with all elected officials . She then asked City Manager Osorio what is Townsend doing as far as the legislative updates that the League is not providing us?
City Manager Osorio replied to her questions.
Mayor Cerda – clarified that the majority of leg work that Townsend did and making sure at the f ederal as well as the state level; get this information and that are grants are getting done in a timely manner. Townsend was the train pushing behind it.
Council Member Henderson – before we engaged with Townsend, our City had not received any type of grant funding; we took an opportunity to see what we would get for one year; I saw that Townsend pushed it through with our leadership, we all do have our relationships with our elected officials , when they received the package, it was clearly understood; the league’s analysis looks at the broader regional aspects, because we are underserved community, we weren’t getting our lines shared, but we haven’t been asking for things ; now that we have this level of success, it starts to bring more success , where be fore we were a deficit city, now we are starting to get into some prosperity.
Council Member Love – to your statement about the league, the City has a league rep that I have dealt with for years that will give us specific information ; we didn’t receive any state funding cause we never asked; now we have relationships, she then stated I am not discounting your work, unless we don’t have anyone on staff to do our applications.
Mayor Cerda – stated it’s a no brainer; we are spending $84,000 to get $7M.
Rodney Tanaka – just because we have relationships and ask, doesn’t mean were going to get it, there’s a lot of cities that are asking for the same thing; a lot of times it goes to staff, what happens when our legislators are not there . Back in the day we had s taff do grants for us and we didn’t get any money ; and now we’re getting money.
Council Member Love - I don’t think it’s a no brainer, I think it’s important for the public to understand how we are spending their money and we are asking the questions for our residents because they don’t understand.
It was moved by Council Member Henderson, and seconded by Council Member Tanaka, and carried by the following roll call vote to Call for Question:
Ayes: Council Members Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis and Council Member Love
Absent: None
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 11 It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Agreement:
Ayes: Council Members Tanaka and Henderson, and Mayor Cerda Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis and Council Member Love
Absent: None
15. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - POLICE
15.A PUBLIC HEARING: INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1849: 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 of Military Equipment Pursuant to Assembly Bill 481
ORDINANCE NO. 1849
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA CALIFORNIA ADOPTING A MILITARY EQUIPMENT
USE POLICY
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Chief of Police Saffell introduced Captain Vince Osorio who gave a PowerPoint Presentation.
At 10:41 p.m. , Mayor Cerda announced that the Public Hearing was open . She asked if anyone had asked to speak on this item and if Council had any comments or questions.
No public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis stated at a previous Council Meeting we approved an item for additional ammunition for $60,000, is this additional . Then confirmed that t he military policy is for acquisition and complaint process, is that correct? She also talked about disposal of rifles when they are too old, and asked if this would be included in the military use equipment; she asked if there was a policy on the usage of the drones; then asked about a drone and a robot and how much do they cost? Chief Saffell and Captain Osorio replied to her questions.
Mayor Cerda – she asked about the situation we went through in December 2022, if we would have had this equipment would it have been helpful; so we have to borrow from our neighboring cities if we have a situation like we did in December what’s the lag time?
Captain Osorio replied to her questions.
Council Member Love stated that she is in total support of these projects; she spoke about a situation she had went through recently when she had to call Gardena Police department to come out; if a drone was available in this situation it would of made a big difference.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 12 CM Henderson – commend the Gardena Police Department and Chief Saffell for the community policing tying the piece in at the youth level.
Lt. Cuff came up and spoke about the drone and robot programs it fits righ t in the steam program whole variety of programs that we could develop over time and how they will develop with various level of kids, he spoke about the Serra HS robotics team with technology with or Police Department.
Council Member Tanaka – commended yo u on the public presentation; all our citizens were impressed and glad that we are thinking of 1) keeping our officers safe and 2) making sure every incident we attack is done so somebody doesn’t get hurt.
Mayor Pro Tem asked about SB 481 what happens if we don’t approve it? City Attorney Vasquez replied to her question.
At 10:55 p.m., Mayor Cerda then announced that the Public Hearing was closed.
Ordinance No. 1849 was introduced by Council Member Love.
It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Council Member Tanaka, and carried by the following roll call vote to Introduce Ordinance No. 1849 and Conduct a Public Hearing. Please allow three (3) minutes for each speaker:
Ayes: Council Member s Love, Tanaka and Henderson, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
16. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - PUBLIC WORKS
16.A Approve the Agreement for Streetlighting Maintenance between the City of Gardena and the City of Los Angeles related to the Traffic Signal Reconstruction Project on Vermont Avenue at Redondo Beach Boulevard and Rosecrans Avenue Project, JN 930.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public speakers.
Mayor Pro Tem Fran cis asked about an item we approved a couple of council meetings ago about the maintenance of street lighting we would just call Edison.
Who do we call now? Have you’ve been working on this for a while now?
Director of Public Works, Allan Rigg replied and explained the project details.
Mayor Cerda stated that Dave Matthews is an awesome individual in getting things done; I commend his efforts.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 13 It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Agreement for Street Lighting Maintenance:
Ayes: Council Member Henderson, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Tanaka and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
16.B Award Construction Contract for the Vermont Avenue from Artesia Boulevard to Gardena Boulevard Street Improvements Project, JN 959, to Onyx Paving Company, Inc. in the amount of $791,000. Additionall y, Award Construction Management and Inspection Services Contract to SA Associates, in the amount of $162,000, Approve the Project Plans & Specifications, Approve a 19% Construction Contingency, and Declare California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Exemption.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked if this was only for Vermont from Artesia to Gardena Boulevard and asked about the railroad tracks; she then asked if this was coming out of Gardena Re-Vitalization Project money?
Director of Public Works, Allan Rigg answered her question.
It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Award Construction Contract; Award Construction Management and Inspection Services ; Approve Project Plans and Specifications ; Approve Expenditures of Remaining Budget as Contingency and Declare CEQA Exemption:
Ayes: Council Member s Henderson and Love , Mayor Pro Tem Francis , Council Member Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
16.C Award contracts for the Traffic Signal Emergency and Maintenance On -Call Services with an initial term of two (2) year and optional three (3) year terms to YUNEX LLC, Bear Electric Solutions, Inc., and St. Francis Electric, LLC.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public speakers.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 14 Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked if we are awarding three companies the contract ? She then asked if any single company can provide all these services?
Director Rigg replied and explained the process.
It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Award Contracts for the Traffic Signal Emergency and Maintenance On-Call Services:
Ayes: Council Members Tanaka, Love and Henderson, and Mayor Cerda Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis
Absent: None
16.D RESOLUTION NO. 6615 , Approving the Engineer's Report for the Gardena Artesia Boulevard Landscaping Assessment District for fiscal year 2023 -2024, declaring its intention to levy and collect assessments under the Gardena Artesia Boulevard Landscaping Assessment District for fiscal year 2023 -2024, and setting a time a nd place for hearing protests in relation thereto (Public Hearing: May 23, 2023)
RESOLUTION NO. 6615
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S
REPORT FOR THE GARDENA ARTESIA BOULEVARD
LANDSCAPING ASSESS MENT DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR
2023-2024, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND
COLLECT ASSESSMENTS UNDER THE GARDENA ARTESIA
BOULEVARD LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR
THE FISCAL YEAR 2023 -2024, AND SETTING A TIME AND
PLACE FOR HEARING PROTESTS IN RELATIO N THERETO
(PUBLIC HEARING: May 23, 2023)
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked if this is a new levy of taxes? Do we have to approve every year?
City Manager Osorio replied.
Council Member Love asked if t here was a landscape district on Rosecrans? Is there a reason why Artesia has a levy tax and Rosecrans do esn’t? I don’t understand why one was getting charged and the other wasn’t . She confirmed that the property owners are already familiar with these taxes.
Director Rigg and City Attorney Vasquez replied to all questions.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 15 It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Adopt Resolution No. 6615:
Ayes: Council Member Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
16.E RESOLUTION NO. 6616 , Approving the Engineer's Report for the Gardena Consolidated Street Lighting Assessment District for fiscal year 2023-2024, declaring its intention to levy and collect assessments under the Gardena Consolidated Street Lighting District for fiscal year 2023 -2024, and setting a time and place for hearing protests in relation thereto (Public Hearing: May 23, 2023)
RESOLUTION NO. 6616
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE ENGINEER’S
REPORT FOR THE GARDENA CONSOLIDATED STREET
LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023 -
2024, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT
ASSESSMENTS UNDER THE GARDENA CONSOLIDATED
STREET LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2023 -2024 AND SETTING A TIME AND PLACE FOR
HEARING PROTESTS IN RELATION THERETO (PUBLIC
HEARING: May 23, 2023)
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public speakers.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked if this is for a continuation levy and if it is for the entire City?
City Manager Osorio replied to her question.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis , seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Adopt Resolution No. 6616:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis , Council Member s Henderson, Tanaka and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 16 17. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - RECREATION & HUMAN SERVICES - No Items
18. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - TRANSPORTATION
18.A Approve Contract with Pulsar Advertising, Inc. for Design and Branding of New On-Demand Transit Service in the Amount of $85,138
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public comments.
Council Member Tanaka asked if this is a more personalized version of Dash? Director of Transportation Director Ernie Crespo replied to his question.
Council Member asked if it is location specific?
Director Crespo showed a timeline slide and answered all of the Council’ s questions.
City Manager Osorio gave some information about the project.
Council Member Henderson thanked Director Crespo for the timeline; asked if when we get to the community meetings make sure that we introduce a way for those that use this service t hat they can still call, when we get to June 2023 and start purchasing vehicles, let’s research what AQMD has.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis thanked Director Crespo for the presentation; thanks for answering all of my questions and spoke about the City of Inglewood may have a micro transit service as well.
Director of Transportation, Ernie Crespo answered all of Council’s questions.
It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Contract:
Ayes: Council Member Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
18.B Approve Contract with Anser Advisory for Owners Representative Services in the Amount of $289,960 and a project total of $362,450
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 17 No public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis so we are going to have a mixed fleet of CNG and Electric buses? Is this project 2 years in the making?
Director Crespo answered her questions.
It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Contract:
Ayes: Council Member Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
19. COUNCIL ITEMS
19.A INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1852 : Amending Section 2.48.020(B) of the Gardena Municipal Code Relating to Membership Eligibility of Youth Commission Members
ORDINANCE NO. 1852
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 2.48.020(B) OF
THE GARDENA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY OF YOUTH COMMISSION
MEMBERS
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Counc il had any comments or questions.
No public comments.
Ordinance No. 1852 was introduced by Council Member Henderson.
It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Introduce Ordinance No. 1852:
Ayes: Council Members Henderson and Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Member Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
19.B Consideration of a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the Acquisition of Property Located at 1731 W. 162nd Street, Gardena, CA 90247 and Declare California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Exemption.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 18 Mayor Cerda asked if anyone asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions.
No public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked if this is the little office building in front of Public Works? She then asked by purchasing this we will now own that whole section of the property and we’re not talking about its use?
Council Member Henderson commended the body for making this purchase and taking this pro-active step.
City Manager Osorio and City Attorney Vasquez answered all of Council’s questions.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis , seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve the Purchase and Sale Agreement for the acquisition of 1731 W. 162nd Street, Gardena CA 90247, and direct staff to file the attached Notice of Exemption pursuant to Categorical Exemption Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) - commonsense exemption:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson, Tanaka and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
20. COUNCIL DIRECTIVES
Mayor Pro Tem Francis
1) Ask staff to research outdoor dining on a permanent basis so Council could have a discussion. Director Tsujiuchi recommended that he take this to the Planning Commission for discussion and research options. – Council Member Henderson seconded it.
Council Member Henderson
1) Commented that there are many blighted billboards in the City. Asked if we could replace with digital billboards. His goal is to take Council and residents on a field trip to observe the noise level of these digital billboards. – Mayor Pro Tem Francis seconded it.
Mayor Cerda
1) If staff could provide a memo regarding feasibility of allowing ‘Open House’ real estate signs on City parkways. – Mayor Pro Tem Francis seconded it.
2) Asked our City Attorney if she could prepare a review o f the Brown Act for Council Members. City Attorney will forward information she recently prepared. – Council Member Tanaka seconded it.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 19 21. CITY MANAGER REMARKS RE: DIRECTIVES / COUNCIL ITEMS
City Manager Osorio had no reportable updates.
22. COUNCIL REMARKS
1. COUNCIL MEMBER LOVE – Since the last meeting , Council Member Love attended Coffee with a Cop at Chi k-Fil-A; attended the Carson State of the City Address, Detective Hugo Gualotuna’s Retirement event at the police station, Gardena ’s State of the City Address, the State of the State Address with Senator Steven Bradford and Ben Allen, the Easter Egg Roll, the $1M dollar check presentation by Congress Woman Waters. Council Member Love highlighted the time she sp ent in Sacramento representing the City at the League of the CA Cities conference and asked the state to permanently fund $3B dollars for the homeless situation; she mentioned she asked why the bill from the City of Gardena used for unfunded state mandates has not been paid.
2. COUNCIL MEMBER HENDERSON - Since the last meeting Council Member Henderson attended our State of the City, Casino Night, Easter Roll at Rowley Park, check presentation from Congress Woman Waters, Gardena PD active shooter training, Mental Health Awareness for Elected Officials, and his IC meeting. Council Member Henderson congratulate d GTRANS as a member of the sub -committee for AQMD; Gardena submitted a package to install limited access CNG stations and modify maintenance, and the City of Gardena was awarded an additional $3 65,000.
Lastly Council Member Henderson mentioned as a part of the AQ MD tech sub- committee, a couple of years ago , we awarded a sustainable project to the City of Riverside to the CISCO Company, which now has electric vehicle trucks and Council Member Henderson received a demo of them working and running in their fleet.
3. MAYOR PRO TEM FRANCIS – Since the last meeting Mayor Pro Tem Francis attended Gardena ’s State of the City, Senator Braford tacos and taxes, Fentanyl Town Hall, Rowley Park easter egg hunt, and the check presentation f rom Congress Woman Maxine Water s, Virtual second District Townhall budget meeting hosted by Supervisor Holly Mitchell, Greater Los Angeles Vector Control District meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Francis attended a coronation ball for the Cinco De Mayo Queen. Lastly, Mayor Pro Tem Francis mention ed as we go through our council business let’s keep in mind the standard of behavior/conduct that we read at the beginning of the council meeting.
4. MAYOR CERDA - Since the last meeting Mayor Cerda attended the Mayor’s round table hosted by Supervisor Holly Mitchell, Carson’s State of the City, Gardena ’s State of the City, and sent a special thank you to the staff for all their hard work. Mayor Cerda attended the Retirement ceremony of Detective Hugo Gualotuna, Casino Night, Funeral Services for South Bay Workforce Investment Board Chairman, Wayne Spencer. Mayor Cerda also attended my commissioner, Lawanda Stanto n’s book release, Gardena Valley Lions oratorical contest, participate with our Kiwanis members we w ere able to provide special gifts to the seniors at the Second Time Around Club;. Mayor Cerda attended a banquet honoring Dignity Health that was held in Long Beach, a reception, along with Council Member Henderson, in honor of two of their long time Counc il Members from Redondo Beach , Police promotion for Nicholas Beerling , the Gardena Police Foundation Scholarship Luncheon, she sent a special thank you to the foundation , Townhall meeting on Fentanyl, volunteered with the Kiwanis at the Spring Carnival. Mayor Cerda attended the check presentation with DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 20 Congress Woman Water s, in conjunction with the Easter extravaganza at Rowley Park, the Ministerial Luncheon, Waste Resources organics workshop, had the opportunity to meet the Vice President, Kamala Harris; Gardena PD community engagement session on AB 481, attended my monthly CCGA Sanitation meeting, met the Home of the Month winner for April, GDA AP Anti- 4/20 day at Peary Junior High School, attended the Helping Marines and their Family’s Donation, and thanked staff for coming together, along with residents from other communities who came out .
Lastly, Mayor Cerda attended RX Take back Day and Earth Day at Arthur Lee Johnson Park. She also mentioned that West Basin Municipal Water is offering no cost toilet replacements and smart sprinkler controller replacements for Gardena residents.
5. COUNCIL MEMBER TANAKA - Since the last meeting Council Member Tan aka attended your State of the City, Lawanda Stanton ’s book release, Easter at Rowley Park, and Congress Woman Waters check presentation , Coffee with a Cop, Fentanyl presentation, Kiwanis Easter give away at Nakaoka and thanked staff , the COG’s Steering Committee, Metro Transportation meeting, the COG Board Meeting, the Marine Corps Donation, attended Sergeant Beerling’s Promotion, attended Foundation Scholarships, Drop off in front of the station, attended two active shooter trainings, went to Citizens academy, attended the Spring Carnival with Kiwanis had a booth, Earth Day, attended Officer Gualotuna’s Retirement, the Trash Compost meeting on how to separate your garbage, the SB 481 presentation, COG seminar on green electric and mentioned the Police Foundation is hosting a golf tournament and they need players.
23. ANNOUNCEMENT(S)
Mayor Cerda announced:
1) Rush Gymnasium, Open Play Tuesday & Thursday s 3:00pm – 8:00pm. Free and Open to All Ages.
2) Spring Fling Dinner and Dance Ladies Choice, Thursday, April 27 ,2023, doors open at 4:30pm; Dinner served at 5:15pm at the Nakaoka Community Center. 3) Free Shredding Event, Saturday, April 29, 2023 , from 8:00am to 12:00pm at City Hall Complex.
4) Cinco De Mayo Parade & Festivities, Saturday April 29, 2023, starts at 10:00am and will end at Mas Fukai Park.
5) Public Safety Day 2023, Saturday, May 6, 2023; 10:00am – 2:00pm at the City Hall Complex.
6) Garden Tea Party, Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 1:00pm – 3:00pm at the Willows Wetland Preserve. For Mother’s, Grandmothers, Daughter's Join Us for a Tea Party in the Beautiful Willows. Wear your Fancy tea party hat to win a prize. 7) South Bay Youth Fishing Event, Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 8:00am to 12:00pm.
Register at 7am. This is for ages 5 to 15. Fishing location will be at Alondra Park Lake.
8) Vision, Hearing & Diabe tes Screening, Saturday, May 13, 2023, 9:00am – 1:00pm at the VFW Post.
9) Fun in the Sun – Senior Day, Thursday, May 18, 2023, 10:00am – 1:00pm at the City Hall Complex Lawn.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381 21 10) Self-Care and Mental Health Fair, Friday, May 19, 2023, from 5:00pm – 9:00pm at the Nakaoka Community Center.
11) Kids to Park Day, Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 10:00am – 2:00pm at Johnson Park. 12) Summer Glow Up Dance Party, Friday, June 9 th from 6:30pm to 9:00pm at the Nakaoka Community Center.
13) Save the Date for the City of Gardena Ja zz Festival, Sunday, August 27 th at Rowley Park. Ticket sales begin on Monday, May 1, 2023.
24. REMEMBRANCES
Arguster Brisco Sr, 99 years of age, father-in-law of Council Member Henderson.
25. ADJOURNMENT
At 12:21am., Mayor Cerda adjourned the Gardena City Council Meeting to the Closed Session portion of the City Council Meeting at 7:00pm., and the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:30pm. on Tuesday, May 9, 2023.
MINA SEMENZA
City Clerk of the City of Gardena and
APPROVED:
Ex-officio Clerk of the Council
______________________________ By:___________________________ Tasha Cerda, Mayor Becky Romero, Deputy City Clerk
DocuSign Envelope ID: 734EFEEA-F4CC-4713-8DF0-EB768EDF3381