1 MINUTES
Regular Meeting of the
Gardena City Council
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
The Regular Meeting Notice and Agenda of the Gardena City Council of the City of Gardena, California, was called to order at 7:03 PM on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, in the Council Chamber at City Hall 1700 West 162nd Street, Gardena, California; Mayor Tasha Cerda presiding.
1. ROLL CALL
Present: 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 Treasurer Guy H. Mato; City Clerk Mina Semenza; and Deputy City Clerk Becky Romero.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis opened the meeting.
City Clerk Mina Semenza, noted for the record that Mayor Cerda was not present during roll call.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION - None
2. CLOSED SESSION
2.A CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Gov. Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Reyes Enriquez, J v. City of Gardena, et al.
United States District Court, Central District of California, No. 2:20-cv-07049-CBM- E
Attorney Andrea Kornblau of Manning Kass was present for Closed Session.
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Cerda reconvened the meeting to the Regular Open Session at 7:38 p.m., and the City Clerk noted the return of all Council Members, with the exception of Mayor Cerda , who were present at the meeting. When City Attorney Vasquez was asked if there was any reportable action from Closed Session, she stated that staff was provided with direction, but no reportable action was taken.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Jordan Agyemang, Cameron Agyemang and Morgan Agyemang led the Pledge of Allegiance. All siblings attend Maria Regina Catholic School. Morgan is in the 2nd grade; Cameron is in the 7th grade and Jordan is in the 8th grade. The Agyemang siblings have participated in many of the Gardena City programs. Jordan and Cameron have attended the after-school program at the Nakaoka Community Center in addition to playing in the City's Youth Baseball and Football programs. Morgan participated in the beginning of gymnastics and ballet, tap and jazz classes. This summer all three will be involved in Gardena City Youth Programs. They introduced their parents and principal.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 2 4. INVOCATION
John Iwohara, Gardena Buddhist Church, gave the Invocation.
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.A Sewer Master Plan Presentation
- Director of Public Works, Allan Rigg introduced Ryan Orgill of Carollo Engineers who gave the first Sewer Master Plan PowerPoint presentation for the City of Gardena.
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 thanked Mr. Orgill for the thorough presentation and is glad to see it because she inquired about it several council meetings ago. She asked if the existing pipeline is being rehabilitated and are new features being added in so that everything will flow c orrectly; she then asked the following questions: if the additional sewer pipelines being added or being made bigger to carry more flow ; what does an upgrade look lik e. Mr. Orgill explained the extensive analysis project in detail and answered all questions.
Council Member Henderson stated he enjoyed the presentation and asked the following questions regarding the smoke testing results : if some of the results end up on private property, how will the municipality handle it; will a reminder be sent to fix th e inflow . Director of Public Works, Allan Riggs stepped in and gave an explanation of the sewer system and answered all questions.
Council Member Tanaka asked if the entire plan would entail the future of our infrastructure to make sure that what we do now takes care of the future. Director Rigg and Mr. Orgill confirmed, yes, that is correct.
Council Member Love asked about the cost difference between year one, why such a big difference between the first set of work and then the next 10 years? Mr. Orgill explained and answered the questions.
Mayor Cerda asked about the illegal ways that some of the pipelines are done in other cities similar to ours in size, what do you normally notice in percentage? Mr.
Orgill explained and answered the questions.
Mayor Cerda thanked Mr. Orgill for the informative presentation.
5.B Gardena Events Video Presentation - There was no video presentation.
Mayor Cerda made a motion to take Oral Communications out of order.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 3 11. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
1) Samantha Myles; Tiffany Jenkins; Kapria Allen; Claudia Garcia; Donetta Bell; Renee Segura; Jose Sanchez and Jacqueline Akiyama - All express their gratitude and experiences with the Gardena Family Child Care Program and staff members. Also, all were asking the City to reconsider eliminating the program.
2) Andrea Simental – Interim Manager for the Mayme Dear Library; she came to announce library events for Gardena Mayme Dear Library.
Mayor Cerda asked City Attorney Vasquez to read the GFCC statement below to provide clarification.
The Gardena Family Child Care Program also known as GFCC is a State- funded Family Care Child Care Home Education Network Program providing quality subsidized childcare services for families, who live work or attend school training in Gardena. The city does not operate Child Care under the GFCC program but is intermediary for the states Family Care Child Care Home Education Network Program that refers clients and facilitates the payment to 21 home- based childcare providers and has about 150 children in GFCC, because of the city’s involvement with the program the City has potential liability exposure from abuse and sexual molestation cases arising from any of the GFCC providers. The provider’s current contract includes a $ 1 million abuse and sexual molestation liability insurance coverage requirement and that has been in effect since August of 2020. In May of 2022, the insurance broker notified the City that the carrier would continue to offer the policy, but the effective rates had doubled. A year later in March 2023 the insurance broker notified the city that the carrier would no longer offer the policy that met the City’s insurance requirements, subsequently the broker searched for alternative carriers, but they were not successful in finding a replacement carrier. We
suspect that several factors contributed to the cancellation of the policy , including recent changes in the law, due to the lack of insurance coverage to protect the city from potential sexual molestation and abuse claims the City has decided not to renew the City’s contract with the state and with GFCC providers. The state is actively working on finding another contractor to take over the funding that would partner with the providers to continue providing services to families with children’s needs. We will continue working closely with the state and the providers during this transition.
Mayor Cerda stated that she will direct our City Manager to set up a meeting with the City Attorney and invite all providers and any parents who would like to attend and partake in a discussion, and possibly help solve this problem.
Mayor Cerda resumed the order of the Council Meeting with Proclamations.
6. PROCLAMATIONS
6.A LGBTQI+ Pride Month - was proclaimed by Mayor Cerda
7. APPOINTMENTS
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 4 7.A Youth Commission - Damilola Ogundimu – was Appointed by Council Member Henderson
Youth Commission - Anaiyah Harris – was Appointed by Council Member Tanaka
Ms. Harris and Mrs. Ogundimu, Damilola’s mother, spoke and thanked the Council for their appointments. Ms. Damilola was not able to attend the meeting due to being out of town at a conference.
It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Council Member Tanaka, and carried by the following roll call vote to Appoint Damilola Ogundimu and Anaiyah Harris to the Youth Commission:
Ayes: Council Member Henderson and Tanaka, Mayor Cerda, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and Council Member Love
Noes: None
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:
Regular Meeting of the City Council, May 23, 2023
CONTACT: CITY CLERK
8.C Receive and File of Minutes:
Planning & Environmental Quality Commission, May 16, 2023 CONTACT: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
8.D Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, June 13, 2023 CONTACT: CITY TREASURER
June 13, 2023: Wire Transfer: 12416- 12427; Prepay: 171913- 171918; Check Numbers: 171919-172121 for a total Warrants issued in the amount of $3,409,135.65; Total Payroll Issued for June 2, 2023: $1,656,783.67.
8.E Personnel Report P-2023-9 6-13-23
CONTACT: HUMAN RESOURCES
8.F Approval Annual Membership and Reserve Assessment Dues in the amount of $41,728.08 for Fiscal Year 2022- 2023 for the City's Participation in the Interoperability Network of the South Bay Joint Powers Agreement CONTACT: ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
8.G Approval for an Amendment to Blanket Purchase Order for Pinnacle Petroleum from $130,000 to $165,197 to purchase fuel for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 CONTACT: PUBLIC WORKS
8.H South Bay Cities Council of Governments MOU Addendum CONTACT: RECREATION AND HUMAN SERVICES
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 5 8.I Ratify Administrative Approval of the Supportive Services Program Contract SSP232403
CONTACT: RECREATION AND HUMAN SERVICES
It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve all Items on the Consent Calendar with the exception of Items 8.E, 8.G, 8.H and 8.I:
Ayes: Council Members Henderson and Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Member Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
9. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR
8.E HUMAN RESOURCES - Personnel Report P-2023-9 6-13-23 - Item pulled by Council Member Love
Council Member Love stated that she was confused about the Recreation and Human Services Manager’s job description when it comes to the salary, since there are already two higher positions in that department and we’re bringing in this person at $8,000-$10,000 a month; she asked for the need of this position and if she could get clarification; she then asked the following: is Recreation and Human Services being restructured as a whole department; and if this position is being created to help offset all of the events that we are having; she stated that she is having a bigger struggle with the salary survey comparisons that are being done with our surrounding cities; she stated she doesn’t feel it’s a fair comparison since we are on a much smaller scale; she continued to say she is not challenging the position, she is challenging the salary and the way we came up with those amounts, with the City doing over 77+ events a year, it’s my job to represent the city’s best interests; I’ve talked to some of the staff/employees and they have said it’s a lot.
City Manager Osorio explained in detail the salary process and answered all questions.
Council Member Tanaka commented that we are paying a lot and spoke about the cities we are being compared to; he continued to say that our Director is doing a Manager and a Director’s job; we do more events than any other cities in the South Bay, and they do not have what we have. We should be proud of what Gardena does.
It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Item 8.E:
Ayes: Council Members Tanaka and Henderson, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: Council Member Love
Absent: None
8.G PUBLIC WORKS - Approval for an Amendment to Blanket Purchase Order for Pinnacle Petroleum from $130,000 to $165,197 to purchase fuel for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 - Item pulled by Mayor Pro Tem Francis
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 6 Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked for confirmation of the item and if this was for the current fiscal year; she then asked if the increase is because of gas prices being on the rise.
City Manager Osorio answered all questions and explained that this was already approved by Council and has already been ratified.
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.G:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Love, Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
8.H RECREATION AND HUMAN SERVICES - South Bay Cities Council of Governments MOU Addendum - Item pulled by Mayor Pro Tem Francis
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked the following questions: if we are adding the $100,000 to cover the Outreach Coordinator position and are we aligning the expiration date so everything will be in synch; so we are not totally relying on grant money, is there a way we can absorb this position into our budget; she then stated she believes we need this position, we need to figure out a way to absorb into our budget.
City Manager Osorio explained and answered all questions.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis , seconded by Mayor Cerda , and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Item 8.H:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Mayor Cerda, and Council Members Henderson, Tanaka, and Love
Noes: None
Absent: None
8.I RECREATION AND HUMAN SERVICES - Ratify Administrative Approval of the Supportive Services Program Contract SSP232403 - Item pulled by Mayor Pro Tem Francis
Mayor Pro Tem Francis asked if this covers existing expenses and if the increase would allow more people to be served.
City Manager Osorio responded.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 7 It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis , seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Item 8.I:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson, Tanaka and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
10. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMISSION ACTION SHEET
10.A JUNE 6, 2023 MEETING
DISCUSSION OF OUTDOOR DINING REGULATIONS
The Planning Commission discussed regulations relating to Outdoor Dining for restaurant uses.
Commission Action: The Planning Commission provided Planning Staff with direction on regulations relating to Outdoor Dining.
City Council Action: No action is needed.
This Item Required No Action by City Council.
12. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
12.A Approval of the Contribution to the City's California Employers' Retirement Benefit Trust (CERBT) in the amount of $1,750,000 to be made before June 30, 2023 and Approval of the Budgeted Contribution to the City's CERBT for Fiscal Year 2023- 2024 in the amount of $750,000 to be made before June 30, 2024
City Manager Osorio gave a PowerPoint presentation with his 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.
Council Member Henderson asked if CalPERS has spoken to cities about their investment strategies; other than investing in cannabis, what other opportunities can we address; he continued to say there is going to be more people at the end of the day, so how do we address that with them.
City Manager Osorio answered all questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis thanked City Manager Osorio for a great presentation and stated that it looks as though the CERBT program has done very well, and asked do you anticipate in the future that this program will perform just as well; what happens if it does not and how would we recover.
City Manager Osorio explained and answered all questions.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 8 It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote for Approval of the Contribution to the City's California Employers' Retirement Benefit Trust (CERBT) in the amount of $1,750,000 to be made before June 30, 2023 and Approval of the Budgeted Contribution to the City's CERBT for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 in the amount of $750,000 to be made before June 30, 2024:
Ayes: Council Member Tanaka, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
Noted for the record at 9:07 p.m. Mayor Cerda asked for a 5 minute break.
At 9:09 p.m. Council Meeting was called to order and City Clerk Semenza called role.
13. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
13.A Consideration of a Contract Services Agreement between MDG Associates, Inc. and the City of Gardena for the consulting services of a 12- Month Pilot Commercial Façade Improvement Program beginning June 13, 2023, through June 30, 2024.
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.
Council Member Henderson asked although we have payments broken down into phases, do we have an actual project plan, so we know what milestones need to be met; who determines if the milestones are too much or too little.
City Manager Osorio answered all questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis then commented and said as I understand the façade program is for $250,000 and asked about the amount being approved; are these consultants going to be able to work within those guidelines with that amount of money; are they going to come back and ask for more money.
City Manager responded to her questions.
Council Member Love asked if the $60,000 was on top of or is it coming out of the $250,000; and if it is for a two-year scoping for a one-year pilot program.
City Manager responded to her questions.
It was moved by Council Member Henderson, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve the Contract Services Agreement between MDG Associates, Inc. and the City of Gardena in the total amount of $60, 000 for the consulting services of a 12- month pilot Commercial Façade Improvement Program, with a breakdown of $10,000 in FY 2022-23 and $50,000 in FY 2023-24:
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 9 Ayes: Council Member Henderson, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Member Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: Council Member Love
Absent: None
13.B INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1855, An Ordinance Adopting the Most Recent Version of the Los Angeles County Fire Code As Set Forth In Title 32 Of The Los Angeles County Code By Reference; and Finding the Action Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act Pursuant to the Common Sense Exemption of CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(B)(3)
ORDINANCE NO. 1855
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE MOST RECENT
VERSION OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE CODE AS SET
FORTH IN TITLE 32 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE BY
REFERENCE AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA 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 that we have no choice other than to adopt this; and this is for the new development, what about some of our older development, will it get grandfathered in.
Council Member Henderson asked what if they create an update that has a financial impact; do they talk to municipalities before they make a financial change.
City Manager Osorio and City Attorney Vasquez explained the process and answered all questions.
Ordinance No. 1855 was introduced by Council Member Love.
It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Introduce Ordinance No. 1855 and set a Public Hearing on the adoption for the meeting of July 11, 2023:
Ayes: Council Member Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 10 14. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ELECTED & CITY MANAGER'S OFFICES - No Items
15. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS – POLICE - No Items
16. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - PUBLIC WORKS
16.A Award Construction Contract for the Pedestrian Safety Improvement FY 2022-2023 Project (Phase 2), JN 513, to Martinez Concrete, Inc., in the amount of $139,780.00, Declare California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Exemption, Approve the Project Specifications and Budget Contingency.
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 stated she could not tell from the map which section of the City does this affect; Council Member Henderson commented on the location; she then asked have we used Martinez Concrete before; she then talked about some of our issues have to do with trees; will those trees be replaced.
City Manager Osorio and Director Rigg answered all questions.
Council Member Henderson stated and correct ed for the record that this is for the area from El Segundo to Rosecrans and Crenshaw to Western.
Director Rigg answered her question.
Mayor Cerda then asked if a resident does not want the tree back, don’t we require it somewhere in our code that the tree has to stay.
Director Rigg responded.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Award Construction Contract; Declare CEQA Exemption; Approve the Project Specifications and Approve Expenditures of Remaining Budget as Contingency:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Love, Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
16.B Approve Catch Basin Trash Excluders Maintenance Agreement between the City of Gardena and Los Angeles County Flood Control District.
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 11 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 who is going to perform the maintenance.
Director Rigg replied to her question.
Council Member Tanaka asked how long does the $68,000 last through Measure W.
Director Rigg replied.
It was moved by Council Member Love, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Catch Basin Trash Excluders Maintenance Agreement:
Ayes: Council Member Love, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, Council Members Henderson and Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
16.C Approve a Contract Change Order to Wallace and Associates Consulting, Inc. for Construction Management and Inspection services in the amount of $31,713.03 for the 170
th Street Improvement Project, JN 944.
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 of the item and commented that they agreed to do the work for a certain amount and now due to the weather, they are asking for an additional $31,000.
City Manager Osorio replied.
Mayor Cerda asked don’t we take that into consideration in our contracts. On a day that it rains, are they on call or readily available. How does that work.
Director Rigg replied and explained the two types of agreements.
Council Member Henderson then commented that change orders are his trigger, because they are doing a lot of off-site activities; what if they discovered their materials are not up to standard; what happens then. Say the consultant had to do some oversight with the contractor, could the contractor then state he’s going out to get the correct materials and now its going to cost additional monies.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 12 Director Rigg answered all questions.
Mayor Cerda thanked Director Rigg for being so efficient and for giving us all the extra information.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis then asked in the future is there any way we can avoid these change orders; is there anything we could have done to not have this change order.
Director Rigg explained and answered all questions.
It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Approved Contract Change Order to Wallace and Associates Consulting, Inc:
Ayes: Council Members Tanaka, Love and Henderson, Mayor Pro Tem Francis, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
17. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - RECREATION & HUMAN SERVICES - No Items
18. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS – TRANSPORTATION - No Items
19. COUNCIL ITEMS
19.A RESOLUTION NO. 6632 : Amending City Council Meeting Agenda Policy No. 03- 01, as it Pertains to Council Directives.
RESOLUTION NO. 6632
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GARDENA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA POLICY NO. 03 -01, AS IT PERTAINS TO COUNCIL
DIRECTIVES
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.
There were no public speakers.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis commented that when Mayor Cerda made the directive at the last Council Meeting, she said it was based on the City of Hawthorne’s policy, she did some research and noticed they have no more than two directives; I have a problem with just one, two is reasonable. She then said she can adjust to all the other guidelines, she doesn’t think this is going to serve us well; that its important to show transparency and if we are able to talk offline, we should be able to discuss in public, unless our City Attorney advises us not to.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 13 Mayor Cerda spoke and said she got the idea from Hawthorne but changed it to one directive. She then gave some examples of things that could be discussed offline.
She then asked if she could make a motion to amend the proposed resolution.
Mayor Pro Tem Francis made a motion to Amend the proposed Resolution No. 6632 accepting all the language with the exception that instead of one (1), it would change to two (2) directives per Council Member.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Francis, seconded by Council Member Love, and carried by the following roll call vote to Amend the proposed Resolution No. 6632 accepting all the language with the exception that instead of one (1), it would change to two (2) directives per Council Member:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis and Council Member Love
Noes: Council Members Henderson, Tanaka, and Mayor Cerda
Absent: None
It was moved by Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Council Member Henderson, and carried by the following roll call vote to Adopt Resolution No. 6632 as is with one (1) Council Directive:
Ayes: Council Members Tanaka, Henderson, and Mayor Cerda Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Francis and Council Member Love
Absent: None
20. COUNCIL DIRECTIVES
Mayor Cerda
Would like staff to research and would also like to be agendized for a future meeting in getting our Gardena Trolley to offer free transport service to and from Redondo Beach on a regular basis for our residents - Council Member Love seconded it.
Purpose – To provide transportation to our residents, especially for those who don’t drive; Reason – Would give our residents something to do; would like everyone to be more active and increase their activities, especially our seniors and children; Benef it – It would raise their quality of life.
21. 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. Memo regarding the visit from Sister City Ichikawa, dated July 2 - July 8th. City Council will be provided with a schedule that will outline the activities that we have plan for them so that they can plan accordingly and choose which activities they would like to attend.
2. Memo sent to Council regarding the Gardena Economic Business Advisory Committee - Gardena Boulevard Revitalization Grant Program.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 14 3. Memo regarding an update of the May 2023 Community Development Department Monthly Report.
4. Memo regarding Electric Vehicle Charger signs - directive by Council Member Henderson.
5. Memo regarding an update on the Virtual assistance on the City website - directive by Council Member Henderson.
6. Memo regarding an update on three (3) pending Council directives that are in progress.
Press release by AQMD, which is very informative and a change in their "Replace Your Ride Program", the voucher is changing from $9,500 to 12,000 to purchase a new car that is more efficient. They also have another program that they will be giving vouchers on alternative transportation methods. For more information visit replaceyourride.com.
7. Last update for City Council is that we do not have the Recreation and Human Services video tonight, due to technical difficulties.
City Manager Osorio congratulated all staff members who represented the City in Denver as a finalist for the All-American City Award. He stated that it was a great experience and he got to meet a lot of people. Unfortunately, the city did not take home the award but will continue to try for future years.
22. COUNCIL REMARKS
(1) COUNCIL MEMBER HENDERSON- Since the last meeting Council Member Henderson attended the Government Chat GPT session, BizFed Advocacy meeting, Nisei Memorial recognition, SCAG CEHD Regional Council, Project Team meeting for potential upgrade on Council Chambers, All America City event, and the Gardena Budget Forum meeting.
He said we have a long list of projects that need to be completed. (2) M
AYOR PRO TEM FRANCIS - Since the last meeting Mayor Pro Tem Francis attended Beatification Commission Meeting, Los Angeles Vector Control District meeting, and the California Democrat Convention. She mentioned that June 18- 24th is Mosquito Awareness Week and warned that we are expecting a high mosquito season. Lastly, she wished everyone a Happy Father’s Day.
(3) CO
UNCIL MEMBER TANAKA - Since the last meeting Council Member Tanaka attended COG Board meeting, Healthy Pet Clinic, Nisei Post 1961 Memorial Day Services, donated blood for the UCLA Blood Drive, League of California Cities LA Division meeting, Bring it on the Blvd., Police Foundation Golf Tournament, LA Metro Mayors and Elected Round Table Discussion. Lastly, Council Member Tanaka attended the funeral services of our fallen officer Toshio Hirai’s father, Isao Hirai. (4) M
AYOR CERDA - Since the last meeting Mayor Cerda attended Medal of Valor, Bring it on the Blvd., LA County Fire Department Medal of Valor, was one of the speakers at the Gardena High S chool Graduation for the class of 2023, Gardena Budget Forum, All America City Awards and mentioned that it was a great team bonding experience. Mayor Cerda also attended the Police Foundation Golf Tournament. Lastly Mayor Cerda thanked Council Member Tan aka for attending the Mayors and Elected Round Table discussion on her behalf.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 15 (5) COUNCIL MEMBER LOVE- Since the last Meeting Council Member Love attended the Grand Opening of See’s Candy in the Rolling Hills Estates, Bring it on the B lvd., Inglewood Cemetery’s Juneteenth event, BizFed Responsible Governance Committee Meeting. Council Member Love thanked GTRANS for their Outreach being heard on the radio. Lastly, she stated: It saddens me to have to make this statement. I want the public to know that when you become an elected, there is no handbook, there is no manual, there is no one to take you by your hand and introduce you to the department heads and give you instructions on how to do this job. You win your election; you’re certified; swear in and you take a seat. At that point you either know how to swim or you will sink. I ran three elections to win the seat. I didn’t win this seat to become complacent and fall in line. The level of disrespect on t his council from some of my colleagues has been ridiculous. I’ve tolerated. During council meetings, I’ll get messages saying how you’re doing a great job. Keep it up. We’re here to serve the public. No we’re not gonna always agree. We shouldn’t always agree that’s not a good thing, but when we disagree, can we disagree respectfully? I understand that my name and my reputation, per what certain staff members thought of me, met me here when I came. I want to thank those staff members that have gotten to know me since I’ve been elected. They’ve gotten to know the real Wanda. Who I am and what I’m about. So, why am I saying this? Because enough is enough! You don’t have to agree with me. I’m not here to be agreed with all the time. But I do expect the same level of respect that everyone else on this council receives. So ends my report.
23. ANNO
UNCEMENT(S)
Mayor Cerda announced:
1) Flag Day Celebration, Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at City Hall Lawn at 11:00 am. 2) Virtual Budget Forum FY 2023-2024, Wednesday, June 14, 2023, from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm - Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/J/89324153606; or call 669- 900-6833; Meeting ID: 89324153606. For more information call City Hall. 3) Neighborhood Watch Meetings: District 3, Thursday, June 15, 2023, at 6:00 pm., located at Village Mobile Homes Park 17100 S. Gramercy Place. 4) 2023 Youth Baseball & Softball Registration for children in grades 1st - 8th. For more information, please call City Hall and check our social media. 5) Save the Date! Juneteenth Celebration, Saturday, June 17, 2023, at City Hall Lawn. 6) Glow Crazy Candlelight Dinner, Thursday, June 22, 2023, at the Nakaoka Community Center Auditorium. Doors open: 4:30 pm - Dinner served: 5:15 pm. Entertainment - Elite Line Dancers.
7) Ice Cream with a Cop, Saturday, June 24, 2023, from 11:00 am - 12:45 pm at Rowley Park and 1:15 pm - 3:00 pm at Arthur Johnson Park. Dunk Tank Prizes and Dodger Family 4 Pack Giveaway. Free ice cream for the first 200 children under 12. 8) Show & Shine Car Exhibit, Saturday, June 24, 2023, at Rowley Park from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. Open to the public! Cool Cars, Great Food, Good Music. Car registration Friday, April 21 - Friday, June 23, 2023. Free to register, All cars welcome, Several categories available. Pre-registration recommended; car entries are required to stay the duration of the event.
9) Volunteers Needed - Willows Week of Service, Monday, June 26, 2023, to Friday, June 30, 2023, from 8 am to 11 am. Sample Projects: Invasive species plant removal; Litter clean-up; Graffiti Removal. For more information call City Hall. 10) Neighborhood Watch Meetings: District 3, Area 2, Thursday, June 27, 2023, at 6:30 pm., located at Arthur Lee Johnson Memorial Park.
DocuSign Envelope ID: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4 16 11) 4th of July Celebration, Tuesday, July 4, 2023, from 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm at Rowley Park.
Fireworks begin at approximately 9:00 pm.
12) City of Gardena Dodger Day, Thursday, July 6, 2023, at 7:10 pm. Giveaway Night Tony Gonsolin Bobblehead. Buy Your Ticket Today! Ticket Prices ranges from $24 to $50.
To purchase tickets, visit the Nakaoka Community Center. 13) Pitch, Hit & Run Competition 2023, Saturday, July 8, 2023, from 10 am - 12 pm at Rowley Park. Free Event for children ages 7- 14. Register online at https://www.mlb.com/pitch-hit-and-run. Join us for some stadium style snacks and baseball chat after the competition 12 pm - 1 pm.
24. REMEMBRANCES
25. ADJOURNMENT
At 10:32 p.m., Mayor Cerda adjourned the Gardena City Council Meeting to the Closed 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 27, 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: CBA5A220-5B16-4736-99DA-22C3A6A0EAE4