GARDENA CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting Notice and Agenda
Council Chamber at City Hall
1700 West 162
nd
Street, Gardena, California
Website:
www.cityofgardena.org
Tuesday, April
8, 2025
Open Session 7:30 p.m.
TASHA CERDA
,
Mayor
RODNEY G. TANAKA
,
Mayor Pro Tem
MARK E. HENDERSON
,
Council Member
PAULETTE C. FRANCIS
,
Council Member
WANDA LOVE
,
Council Member
MINA SEMENZA
,
City Clerk
GUY H. MATO,
City Treasurer
CLINT OSORIO
, City Manager
CARMEN VASQUEZ
,
City Attorney
LIZA KRANITZ
,
Assistant City Attorney
ROSEMARY KOO
,
Assistant City Attorney
If you would like to participate in this meeting, you can participate via the following options:
1 .
VIEW THE MEETING live on SPECTRUM CHANNEL 22 or ONLINE at youtube.com/CityofGardena
2 .
PARTICIPATE BEFORE THE MEETING
by emailing the Deputy City Clerk at
[email protected]
by 5:00p.m. on the day of the meeting and write
"Public Comment" in the subject line.
3 .
ATTEND THE MEETING IN PERSON
PUBLIC COMMENT
:
The City Council will hear from the public on any item on the agenda or any item of interest that is not on the agenda at the following times:
Agenda Items – At the time the City Council considers the item or during Oral Communications
Non-agenda Items – During Oral Communications
Public Hearings – At the time for Public Hearings listed on the Agenda If you wish to address the Council, please complete a “Speaker Request” form and present it to the City Clerk or Sergeant of Arms. You will be called to the podium by name when it is your turn to address the Council. The City Council cannot legally take action on any item not scheduled on the Agenda. Such items may be referred for administrative action or scheduled on a future Agenda. Members of the public wishing to address the City Council will be given three (3) minutes to speak. 4 .
The City of Gardena, in complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requests individuals who require special accommodations to access, attend and/or participate in the City meeting due to disability, to please contact the City Clerk's Office by phone (310) 217-9565 or email
[email protected]
at least 24 business
hours prior to the scheduled general meeting to ensure assistance is provided. Assistive listening devices are available.
1. ROLL CALL
2. CLOSED SESSION
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Lorelei Alvarado and Abigail Barrientos
Gardena Elementary School
4. INVOCATION
Reverend Christopher Codrington
Gardena-Torrance Baptist Church
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.A
Gardena Events Video Presentation
6. PROCLAMATIONS
6.A
"National Library Week," April 6 through April 12, 2025 - to be accepted by
Friends of the Library and Andrea Simental, Library Manager of Mayme Dear Library
Proclamation -National Library Week 2025.pdf
6.B
"Challenge the Norm and Influence of Marijuana Use on Youth Day" - April 20, 2025 -
to be accepted by Tracy Saruwatari
Proclamation - 4-20 Challenge the Norm-Influence of Marijuana on Youth Day 2025.pdf
7. APPOINTMENTS
STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR THAT PROMOTE CIVILITY AT ALL PUBLIC MEETINGS Treat everyone courteously;
Listen to others respectfully;
Exercise self-control;
Give open-minded consideration to all viewpoints;
Focus on the issues and avoid personalizing debate; and Embrace respectful disagreement and dissent as democratic rights, inherent components of an inclusive public process, and tools for forging sound decisions Thank you for your attendance and cooperation
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
- Roll Call Vote Required On The Consent Calendar
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar will be enacted by one motion unless a Council Member requests Council discussion, in which case that item will be removed from the Consent Calendar and considered separately following this portion of the agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON 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, March 25, 2025
CONTACT: CITY CLERK
03252025 CC MEETING - FINAL.pdf
8.C
Receive and File Minutes:
Planning and Environment Quality Commission March 4, 2025 Planning and Environment Quality Commission March 18, 2025 CONTACT: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
2025_03_04 PCMIN - FINAL.pdf
2025_03_18 PCMIN - FINAL.pdf
8.D
Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, April 8, 2025
CONTACT: ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Warrant-Payroll Register 04-08-25.pdf
8.E
Personnel Report P-2025-7 04-08-25
CONTACT: HUMAN RESOURCES
PERS RPT P-2025-7 4-08-25.pdf
8.F
RESOLUTION NO. 6700
, Amending the List of Authorized Games and Authorizing the Play of Certain Games in Licensed Card Clubs
CONTACT: CITY MANAGER
Reso No. 6700 -
Authorized gaming activity.pdf
Letter - Hustler- Department of Justice approval.pdf
Letter - Approval Request for Hustler Casino Punch Card Promotion.pdf
9. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR
10. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMISSION ACTION SHEET
10.A
APRIL 1, 2025 MEETING
FIRST EXTENSION OF TIME REQUEST FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #9- 23, SITE PLAN REVIEW #5-23, AND VARIANCE #1-23
The Planning Commission considered a request for a six-month extension for the construction and the use of a new public utility facility by the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts in the General Commercial (C-3) zone within the City.
LOCATION: 1919, 1923, 1931 W. Artesia Boulevard; APNs: 4094-007-903, 906, 905
APPLICANT: Los Angeles County Sanitation District No. 2 Commission Action:
The Planning Commission approved a six-month extension
of time for Conditional Use Permit #9-23, Site Plan Review #5-23, and Variance #1-23, by a vote of 5-0.
City Council Action
: Receive and file
OR
call for review by way of two votes from
the City Council.
10.B
APRIL 1, 2025 MEETING
2024 General Plan Annual Progress Report
An information report was presented to the Planning Commission providing an overview of the City of Gardena's 2024 General Plan Annual Progress Report.
Commission Action
: The Planning Commission received staff’s report.
Council Action
: No action needed.
2025_04_01 PCAX.pdf
11. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (
LIMITED TO A 30-MINUTE PERIOD)
Oral Communications by the public will be heard for one-half hour at or before 8:30 p.m. or at the conclusion of the last agenda item commenced prior to 8:30 p.m. Oral Communications not concluded at that time shall be resumed at the end of the meeting after Council Reports. Speakers are to limit their remarks to three minutes, unless extended by the Mayor. An amber light will appear to alert the speaker when two minutes are complete, and a red light will appear
when three minutes are over. Your cooperation
is appreciated.
11.A
PUBLIC COMMENT
04-08-2025 Regular CC Meeting - PC #1 - Oral Communication.pdf
12. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
12.A
Approval of Two (2) Professional Services Agreements for Voter Survey, Education, Outreach, and Communications for Potential Ballot Revenue Measure with TeamCivX for $165,250 and Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates (FM3) for $62,750 including a 20 Percent Contingency of $45,600 for a Project Total of $273,600
Staff Recommendation: Approval of Two (2) Professional Services Agreements for Voter Survey, Education, Outreach, and Communications for Potential Ballot Revenue Measure with TeamCivX and Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates (FM3) for a Project Total of $273,600, which includes a Contingency of Twenty Percent (20%)
psa - teamcivx.pdf
psa - fm3.pdf
TeamCivX_Council_Presentation.pdf
12.B
Approval of Police Managers' Resolution No. 6699, the Second Amendment to the Employment Agreement between The City of Gardena and Michael Saffell, and Classification and Compensation Schedules
Staff Recommendation: Approve Police Managers' Resolution No. 6699, the Second Amendment to the Employment Agreement between The City of Gardena and Michael Saffell, and Classification and Compensation Schedules
Resolution No. 6699 - Unrepresented Police Managers.pdf
Second Amendment to Employment Agreement- Saffell.pdf
Classification and Compensation Schedules - Amended April 8 2025.pdf
13. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
14. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ELECTED & CITY MANAGER'S OFFICES
15. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - POLICE
16. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - PUBLIC WORKS
16.A
RESOLUTION NO. 6688
, Approving the Engineer's Report for the Gardena Artesia Boulevard Landscaping Assessment District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, Declaring its Intention to Levy and Collect Assessments under the Gardena Artesia Boulevard Landscaping Assessment District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, and Appointing a time and place for a Public Hearing thereon (Public Hearing: May 13, 2025).
Staff Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 6688
Artesia Landscaping District Resolution No 6688.pdf
Gardena Landscape Engineer's Report 2025-26.pdf
16.B
RESOLUTION NO. 6689
, Approving the Engineer's Report for the Gardena
Consolidated Street Lighting Assessment District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, Declaring its Intention to Levy and Collect Assessments under the Gardena Consolidated Street Lighting District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, and Appointing a time and place for a Public Hearing thereon (Public Hearing: May 13, 2025) Staff Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 6689
Consolidated Street Lighting District Resolution No 6689.pdf
Gardena SLD Engineer's Report 2025-26.pdf
17. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - RECREATION & HUMAN SERVICES
18. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - TRANSPORTATION
19. COUNCIL ITEMS
20. COUNCIL DIRECTIVES
21. CITY MANAGER REMARKS RE: DIRECTIVES / COUNCIL ITEMS
22. COUNCIL REMARKS
1 .
COUNCIL MEMBER HENDERSON
2 .
MAYOR PRO TEM TANAKA
3 .
COUNCIL MEMBER LOVE
4 .
MAYOR CERDA
5 .
COUNCIL MEMBER FRANCIS
23. ANNOUNCEMENT(S)
24. REMEMBRANCES
Mr. Arthur Joe Castillo Sr
.
, 81 years of age, resident of Gardena for over 50 years, and a member of the Gardena Elks Lodge where he helped run Bingo on a weekly basis.
Mrs. Kohar Tavoukjian
,
beloved mother of WRG General Manager Mark Tavoukjian.
25. ADJOURNMENT
The Gardena City Council will adjourn to the Closed Session portion of the City Council Meeting at 7:00 p.m. followed by the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing agenda was posted in the City Hall lobby not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting. A copy of said Agenda is available on our website at www.CityofGardena.org
.
Dated this 4th day of April 2025
/s/ MINA SEMENZA
MINA SEMENZA, City Clerk
1 MINUTES
Regular Meeting Notice
Gardena City Council
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
The Regular Meeting Notice and Agenda of the Gardena City Council of the City of Gardena, California, was called to order at 7:07 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in the Council Chamber at City Hall 1700 West 162
nd Street, Gardena, California, Mayor Tasha Cerda
presiding.
1. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Tasha Cerda; Mayor Pro Tem Rodney G. Tanaka; Council Member Mark E. Henderson; Council Member Paulette C. Francis; 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.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION
2. CLOSED SESSION
2.A CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Edward Medrano v. City of Gardena
WCAB NO: ADJ18722621 and ADJ16893586
2.B CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Sherri Sheffield v. City of Gardena
WCAB NO: ADJ16831317 and ADJ17001258
2.C CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Michael Nguyen v. City of Gardena
WCAB NO: ADJ18114652
2.D CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Derrick Jones v. City of Gardena
WCAB NO: ADJ16338485
2.E CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
City of Gardena v. County of Los Angeles, et al.
Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 24STCP03577
2.F CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Michael Sargent v. City of Gardena, et al.
Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 23TRCV03283
2.G CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Mariya Wrightsman v. City of Gardena, et al.
2 Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 23STCP04453
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Cerda reconvened the meeting to the Regular Open Session at 7:48p.m., and the City Clerk noted the return of all Council Members, who were present at the meeting. When City Attorney Vasquez was asked if there was any reportable action from Closed Session, she stated that Council met with regard to I tems 2.A through 2.G; all members of the Council were present; as it pertains to Items 2.A through 2.E staff wa s provided with direction, with regards to Items 2.F and 2.G, the Council was provided with an update, no other reportable action was taken.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Miri Wilson and Noah Araiza, both in the 6 th grade at 156th Street Elementary School, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Miri is positive and enthusiastic with a great sense of humor. She loves dance and gymnastics. She also really enjoys traveling to calming locations with her family. Her favorite book is The Wizard of Oz, and she loves the movie Wicked. She is in a youth leadership group where she learns about fighting for equal rights in countries around the world. Noah is high achieving and hard -working and is in the Gifted and Talented Education, (GATE) program. He is very driven when he sets his sights on a goal. He enjoys sports and plays on a flag football team . In school, his favorite subjects are math and reading. His favorite books are the series Diary of a Wimpy Kid . An issue that Noah cares about is reducing violence in the world.
4. INVOCATION
Pastor Les Higgins of True Way Missionary Baptist Church led the Invocation in place of Joyce S. Watanabe of Baha’i Faith.
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.A Recognition of Public Works Staff for Completing two (2) Railroad Crossing Projects – Director of Public Works Allan Rigg spoke about the project; a video was shown, and appropriate photos were taken
5.B Certificate of Commendation in Special Recognition of Retirement and Long-Time Service to the City of Gardena:
1. Daniel Le - Transit Mechanic with the Transportation Department - 15 years
2. Tonya Hill - Bus Operator with the Transportation Department - 25 years Director of Transportation Ernie Crespo spoke on behalf of the Retirees, who were not present at the meeting
5.C Certificate of Recognition to Louis Enriquez for his service to the community as a Member of the Gardena Economic Business Advisory Commission – Mr. Enriquez was not present at the meeting
5.D Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District Presentation - Presentation was given by Caroline Gongora, Public Information Coordinator with the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District
3 5.E Boards & Commissions Presentation - Beautification Commission – Chair Paulette Francis spoke about the commission; Commissioner Barbara Phillips came up and said a few words; and a video was then presented
5.F Gardena Events Video Presentation
6. PROCLAMATIONS
6.A "Fair Housing Month" April 2025 – was accepted by Alice Nguyen, Outreach Coordinator of the Fair Housing Foundation
7. APPOINTMENTS
7.A Council Appointments to Commissions, Committees, Councils and Boards) (Appointees to be Ratified and Sworn In)
Rent Mediation Board - Owner Representative - Annie Roddy (Appointed by Mayor Pro Tem Rodney Tanaka)
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka , seconded by Mayor Cerda and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve the Appointment of Annie Roddy to the Rent Mediation Board-Owner Representative:
Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka and Mayor Cerda; Council Member s Henderson, Love and Francis
Noes: None
Absent: None
City Clerk Mina Semenza administered the Oath of Office to Ms. Roddy and appropriate pictures were taken.
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, March 11, 2025
CONTACT: CITY CLERK
8.C Approval of Warrants/Payroll Register, March 25, 2025 CONTACT: ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
8.D Monthly Investment Portfolio, February 2025
CONTACT: ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
8.E Personnel Report P-2025-6 03-25-25
CONTACT: ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
4 8.F Gardena General Plan Annual Progress Report
CONTACT: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
It was moved by Council Member Henderson and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve the Consent Calendar with the exception of Item 8.F:
Ayes: Council Member Henderson, Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka , Council Members Francis and Love, and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
9. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR
8.F COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: Gardena General Plan Annual Progress Report
Council Member Francis asked for an update regarding the annual progress report ; Mayor Cerda made comments regarding the report; Council Member Love made comments and asked for confirmation of some of the things in the report so our community could better understand . Community Development Manager Amanda Acuna confirmed and answered all questions.
It was moved by Council Member Francis and seconded by Council Member Love and carried by the following roll call vote to:Approve Item 8.F:
Ayes: Council Member Francis and Love; Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, Council Member Henderson and Mayor Cerda
Noes: None
Absent: None
10. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMISSION ACTION SHEET
10.A MARCH 18, 2025 MEETING
ENVIROMENTAL ASSESMENT #18-24 and CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #8-24 The Planning Commission considered a request for a conditional use permit, to operate an amusement arcade within an existing commercial tenant space within the General Commercial (C-3) zoning district, in accordance with Section
18.32.030.H of the Gardena Municipal Code. The project was considered categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, as an existing facilities project and Section 15061(b)(3).
Applicant: Wawa Claw LLC (Representative: Matthew Chi)
Project Location: 1425 W. Artesia Blvd
Commission Action: The Planning Commission approved Resolution No. PC 4- 25, by a vote of 5- 0, approving Conditional Use Permit #8- 24, subject to the conditions of approval presented by staff with an added condition, and directed staff to file a Notice of Exemption.
5 City Council Action: Receive and file OR call for review by way of two votes from the City Council.
The Item was Received and Filed.
10.B MARCH 18, 2025 MEETING
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT #20-24, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #9-24 The Planning Commission considered a request for a conditional use permit, to operate an amusement arcade within an existing commercial tenant space within the General Commercial (C-3) zoning district, in accordance with Section
18.32.030.H of the Gardena Municipal Code. The project was considered for categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, as an existing facilities project Section 15061 (b)(3).
Applicant: Kiddleton Inc. (Representative: Kanako Nishikawa) Project Location: 15484 S. Western Avenue
Commission Action: The Planning Commission approved Resolution No. PC 5- 25, by a vote of 5- 0, approving Conditional Use Permit #9- 24, subject to the conditions of approval presented by staff with an added condition and directed 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.
The Item was Received and Filed.
11. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
1) Andrea Simental, Community Library Manager at Gardena Mayme Dear Library ; came to give library updates for both the Mayme Dear and Masao W. Satow libraries. 2) Arohi Sharma, resident of Torrance and a volunteer of the Torrance League of Women Voters; came to introduce herself and invite everyone to their Earth Day Event. 3) Jordan, resident; spoke about the homelessness problem in the City.
12. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
12.A Single Audit Report Required for Federally Funded Programs for Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Cerda then asked if anyone had asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions. There were no public speakers
A comment w as made by Council Member Henderson. Hearing no other comments from Council, Mayor Cerda stated that this item would be Received and Filed.
6 13. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT - 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.
Nicolo De Luca presented a PowerPoint presentation.
Mayor Cerda then asked if anyone had asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions. There were no public speakers.
Questions and comments were made by all Members of the Council. Mr. De L uca explained their methodology and answered all questions.
It was moved by Mayor Cerda and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka and carried by the following roll call vote to Approve Agreement:
Ayes: Mayor Cerda and Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka ; Council Members Henderson and Francis
Noes: Council Member Love
Absent: None
15. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS – POLICE - None
16. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - PUBLIC WORKS
16.A Approve the Installation of Gardena Decorative Street Lighting by Southern California Edison (SCE), JN 506, on Gardena Boulevard between Vermont Avenue to Western Avenue and 162nd Street between Denker Avenue to Western Avenue, Authorize the City Manager to execute the SCE Application and Contract in a form approved by the City Attorney in the amount of $182,000, D eclare California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Exemption and Approve the Remaining Budget of $47,000 as a Project Contingency
City Manager Osorio presented the Staff Report.
A few slides of the color patterns and the fixtures were presented by Director of Public Works Allan Rigg, who gave an update on the project.
Mayor Cerda then asked if anyone had asked to speak on this item and if the Council had any comments or questions. There were no public speakers.
Questions and comments were made by Council Member Francis, Mayor Cerda, and Council Member Love. Director of Public Works Allan Rigg explained the method and process of the street lighting project and answered all questions.
7 It was moved by Mayor Cerda and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka and carried by the following roll call vote to: Approve Project Installation by SCE with Chosen Color for Fixture; Authorize City Manager to Execute the Application & Contract with SCE; Declare CEQA Exemption; Approve Project Contingency:
Ayes: Mayor Cerda and Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka ; Council Members Henderson and Love
Noes: Council Member Francis
Absent: None
17. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS - RECREATION & HUMAN SERVICES - None
18. DEPARTMENTAL ITEMS – TRANSPORTATION - None
19. COUNCIL ITEMS - None
20. COUNCIL DIRECTIVES
Council Member Love
Directive: This directive is for council to consider allowing public works to install 15 poles on Gardena Boulevard, between Vermont Ave. and Budlong for string light to be hung back - and-forth across Gardena Boulevard.
Purpose - To further revitalize Gardena Boulevard.
Reason - This additional lighting would enhance the Gardena Boulevard revitalization program already in existence.
Benefit - this additional lighting combined with the new Edison Street light heads will make Gardena Boulevard brighter and more attractive with hope of drawing more businesses to the Boulevard and inspire more customers to shop there after dark, creating a new night life on the Blvd.
Mayor Cerda and Council Member Francis seconded it.
Mayor Cerda
Directive: For staff to send a letter of support for AB 394 – Public Transit Operator and Rider Safety.
Purpose – Enhance the safety and security of California public transportation by strengthening protection for transit operators;
Reason – For the safety of our drivers, and riders on GTrans; and Benefit – Promote a safer environment for our workers.
Council Member Francis seconded it.
City Attorney Vasquez mentioned that staff will prepare a draft letter and send it to you each one individually to let you decide if you would like to add your name to the letter of support.
8 21. CITY MANAGER REMARKS RE: DIRECTIVES / COUNCIL ITEMS
1) City Manager Osorio stated that he had nothing to report.
22. COUNCIL REMARKS
1) MAYOR PRO TEM TANAKA - Since the last meeting, he attended the State of the City address by our Mayor, it was a really great event, being a part of this great C ity for 71 years, it was nostalgic to look back at some of the C ity's history. He attended Casino Night supporting our seniors at the Nakaoka Community Center; Ms. Santin and her staff did a great job. Sadly, he attended the funeral of retired Gardena Police Officer , Cruz Olivares, he was a really great officer , who retired and unfortunately passed away. He attended the COG Housing Trust Advisory Committee meeting. He attended the RCC Board meeting, they approved the budget and they’re trying to hire more dispatchers, so anybody looking for a dispatcher job should contact RCC. He attended the 88 Cities conference in Torrance, he thanked Council Member Dr. Henderson for being a part of the COG panel regarding the South Bay cities fiber network. He appreciates Community Development and staff members for showing up to this event. The event was hosted by Torrance Mayor George Chen. The Keynote Speaker was Tara Lynn Gray, who's a Director of the California Office of Small Business Advocate, who put on a really great message. He attended the law enforcement B adges Blood Drive, thank you Chief for always doing that. Hopefully, you guys win again. He attended the Eagle Scout awards presentation at the Gardena Valley Baptist Church for honorees of T roop #719. He mentioned their names, spoke of their commitment and dedicatio n. Lastly, he attended the Board of Supervisors meeting, to support and request approval of Measure A fundings for the South Bay cities. He received an e- mail from Jackie Bach arach, our Director, who said that it passed so he’s thankful for that and for Supervisor Hong and the rest of the supervisors.
2) COUNCIL MEMBER FRANCIS - Since the last meeting, she attended the State of the City and the Girl Boss workshop. She thanked Carolina Gongora, their Public Information Officer, from the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District. She also gave a special thank you to Barbara Phillips for coming out to represent the Beautification Commission. If you see any graffiti anywhere, please call it in. She wants to thank the Public Works department for doing such a great job as soon as the calls come in, they get it done as fast as they can. She mentioned that as we go towards the month of April students are out for spring break, so you'll see more young people on the streets riding bicycles, keep an eye out for them. She thanked everybody for coming out and supporting our City Council meeting.
3) COUNCIL MEMBER LOVE - Since the last meeting, she attended Casino night. She also attended the Willows Wetland Preserve Spring Equinox. She had the honor of sponsoring the snacks and the lunch for them, but she was really excited because in exchange she got nice little vegetable plants. She also attended the Carson State of the City address which was pretty amazing. Carson is definitely on the move, and they have a lot that they're about to do in preparation for the upcoming big events such as the World Cup, and the Olympics. She was speaking to the Mayor from Carson, and they were talking about how Gardena can start to position itself for capitalization on some of these big events. She’s hoping that we can start some kind of campaign to market the multiple
9 diverse restaurants that we have, and we might be able to benefit from these events coming into the state. She shared with Councilwoman Francis that she thought she was going to have to replace your Commissioner Barbara Phillips because she was having some personal issues , but then on Monday Commissioner Barbara Philips made it a point to pull her out of a meeting to tell her that no if she has not replaced her , then please don't because she really wants to stay. Commissioner Barbara Philips loves your Commission that much, she just thought Council Member Francis should know that. She also spoke on the graffiti; she agrees and encourages residents to report all graffiti not just the big graffiti that's tagged on the walls with the spray paint but also graffiti that's written on our light poles, our street poles, our trash cans, and even our business windows. She encourages the community to get involved and it goes back to what the Chief said earlier without your community involvement and telling us what you want from us then they won't know. She strongly encourages more of our residents to become more engaged, more aware, attend the council meetings, and start getting involved in hearing and letting their voice be heard.
4) MAYOR CERDA - Since the last council meeting, she attended the LA County Sanitation personnel meeting. She also attended Environmental Charter S chool, the school had their 6th graders do a project on community issues that they saw around the city and how they would fix it. They did a great job, all the young people presenting, they all had talking points they created their own flyers along with poster boards. She attended the Emperor of Japan's birthday celebration at the Japanese C onsulate General’s home, along with our Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka. She also had the opportunity to be out with Public Works when they were doing the railroad. She thanked Public Works for doing an amazing job. She also attended Serra High School’s 75th anniversary , which was held at the Westdrift Hotel, and it was really great to see so many former students that graduated even in the 60s. She also attended a tour of Nissin Foods, their CEO was so gracious to accommodate her, the City Manager, and a couple of our employees on this tour. They were able to see how cup noodles are made and to see it from its initial dough and how it's rolled out, processed and packaged. Also, she had the opportunity to attend the youth sports league, they had two different banquets on two different nights and that is always great to help award the young people for participating in sports. She also attended a Sister City International meeting. She also attended the 49th Annual Koi show banquet, the group is just so thankful for always being able to have their event hosted here in the City of Gardena and they go on and on about how great our staff is to them.
Also, she attended our State of the City, and she just wants to thank everybody who played a part in it, putting that entire event together, from the staff who decorated, to those who were just helping get all the information from all the different departments. It came off well, showing the history of every department as it relates to when Gardena was first incorporated in 1930 to where we're at right now. She thanked the Chief for his presentation. She also attended Casino Night, another great event that was held by our staff, our residents want to have a Casino Night every month, it's just that good. She also attended Coffee with a Cop again another successful event. She attended her monthly CCGA meeting, and her local S anitation meeting, she also attended Carson's State of the City, another great event. As Mayors, a lot of times they always like to support each other, their Mayor comes here, she goes over there, and they always share ideas of what they’re doing in their cities, and how they can help each other out and so she was really happy just to see some of the great success that the city of Carson's is having. She had
10 the opportunity to attend the Girls Prep Academy for the Fire Department, LA County Fire Department offers this for young women who are interested in joining the fire department. Then she also attended the installation of the new president of their Association of Peruvian Cultural Group they had their event in San Pedro, it was another great event to attend. They mentioned they want to be more involved with Gardena.
Lastly, this coming Friday she will be having her monthly town hall meeting at 6:00 PM, it will be at the Toss Up restaurant located on Artesia and Dalton. She is open to hearing any issues and concerns that any residents have as well as any information that she could share with you all to just let you understand all the different things that we offer in the City of Gardena.
5) COUNCIL MEMBER HENDERSON - Our State of the City was great, Carson's State of the City was great, Hawthorne's State of the City was great, so he has gone to a few States of the City in our 16- city region of South Bay C ouncil of Governments. He made an appeal to Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka as the chair of the COG to see if there's some interest in us doing a State of the Region for everybody to be aware or at least share the slides from what's happening in Inglewood to what Carson is doing. That prompted him to follow up with LA 28 in regards to what some of the smaller cities can do regarding the Olympics and the World Cup, so they gave him some ideas for Mr. City Manager he’s going to synthesize them a little more and give them to our City Manager, and then they can work it through staff because there is opportunity. He attended C offee with a C op.
He attended the Eagle Scout ceremony at Gardena Valley Baptist Church. He attended all his committee meetings, his Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review committee, Technical Advisory committee. He wants to thank again Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka as the chair of the COG they got an opportunity to present as he stated to the Los Angeles Economic Development Commission their 88 City Summit hosted by the City of Torrance. He was humbled and honored to be the presenter for our South Bay fiber network and also to represent the City of Gardena. He did his business and community visits, he got some feedback from the mayor's last town hall meeting, it was pretty cool.
He wants to thank the staff, the Chief, and the Public Works Department for the railroad project. He thanked the City Manager; he appreciates the responsiveness of him and the staff with his inquiries and questions. So, you aren't on a bottleneck, they're getting stuff done and he appreciates that.
23. ANNOUNCEMENT(S)
1) Willows Week of Service ; Volunteers are needed – April 14, 2025, to April 18, 2025, From 8:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Willows Wetland Preserve; 2) Youth Spring Camp – April 14, 2025, to Aprill 18, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Freeman Park, Nakaoka Community Center and Johnson Park; 3) Volunteen Camp – April 14, 2025, to April 18, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Nakaoka Community Center;
4) Hoppin’ Bunny Breakfast – April 19, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Nakaoka Community Center;
5) Eggstravaganza Bonanza – April 19, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Rowley Park;
6) Aquatic Center Coming Summer 2025 – Feedback Survey will Open February 24, 2025, to March 25, 2025 for a chance to enter a raffle to win a $50 credit; 7) Paper Shredding Event – April 5, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the City Hall Complex;
11 8) TRP Books & Beyond Adventure – April 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Nakaoka Community Center;
9) Compost Giveaway – April 12, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Rowley Park; 10) Spring Community Yard Sale – April 5, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Mas Fukai Park;
11) League of Women Voters, Earth Day Teach- in – April 21, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Katy Geissert Civic Center Library.
24. REMEMBRANCES
Mrs. Kimiko Nakaoka, 95 years old, former resident of Gardena for many years and wife of former Gardena Mayor Ken Nakaoka;
Mr. Avelino “Cruz” Olivares, former Police Officer with the Gardena Police Department.
25. ADJOURNMENT
At 10:29 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, April 8, 2025.
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
1 MINUTES
Regular PEQC Meeting of the
Planning and Environmental Quality Commission
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
The Regular PEQC Meeting Notice and Agenda of the Planning and Environmental Quality Commission of the City of Gardena, California, was called to order at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in the Council Chambers at 1700 W. 162nd Street, Gardena, California.
PARTICIPATE BEFORE THE MEETING by emailing the Planning Commission at [email protected] by 5:00 PM on the day of the meeting and write “Public Comment” in the subject line.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 PM
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Stephen P. Langley led the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Deryl Henderson; Vice -Chair Ronald Wright -Scherr; Commissioner Jules Kanhan; Commissioner Steve Sherman and Commissioner Stephen P. Langley .
Employees present: Director of Community Development Greg Tsujiuchi ; Community Development Manager Amanda Acuña ; City Attorney Carmen Vasquez and Planning Assistant Kevin La.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4.A February 4, 2025 MEETING
MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Langley and seconded by Vice- Chair Wright-Scherr to approve the minutes of the meeting on February 4, 2025:
The motion was passed by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Langley, Wright-Scherr, Kanhan, Sherman, and Henderson Noes: None
Abstain: None
5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Administrative Analyst I, Georgina Placido , asked if there were any comments from the public and noted for the record that no member of the public wished to speak to the Planning Commission at this time.
2 6. OTHER ITEMS
6.A Resolution No. PC 3 -25: Approving the appeal by The Tire House Inc. from the Director's decision to revoke the approval of the Site Plan Review #4- 15 for The Tire House business located at 1818 W. Redondo Beach Blvd., and finding that the action is categorically exempt from the provisions of CEQA pursuant to guidelines Section 15321.
Community Development Director Greg Tsujiuchi, Community Development Manager Amanda Acuña, and City Attorney Carmen Vasquez were present to answer any questions.
Planning Assistant, Kevin La presented the Staff Report and provided background information on Site Plan Review #4-15. He reported on the business’s progress made in cleaning up the property and progress made to conform to the conditions of Site Plan Review #4-15. A timeline showing the actions taken in the last nine years was displayed on the screen. He noted that on February 10, 2025, a Gardena Building Inspector conducted and passed the re- stripping permit, and it is now in compliance with the conditions for Site Plan Review #4-15.
Mr. La informed everyone that Code Enforcement visited the property on March 4, 2025, and took photos of the current business, which were displayed on the screen.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is recommending to the Planning Commission to:
Receive the progress report from staff;
Adopt Resolution No. PC 3-25 reflecting the Planning Commission's decision of approving the appeal by the Tire House Inc. from the Director’s decision to revoke Site Plan Review #4-15; and
Find that the action is categorically exempt from the provisions of CEQA pursuant to guidelines Section 15321
Chair Henderson asked if any Commissioners had questions.
Chair Henderson sought confirmation that the project was complete and thanked Director Tsujiuchi for his work in having the property come into compliance.
MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Langley and seconded by Vice- Chair Wright-Scherr to Receive the progress report from staff; Adopt Resolution No. PC 3 -25 reflecting the Planning Commission's decision of approving the appeal by the Tire House Inc. from the Director’s decision to revoke Site Plan Review #4- 15; and Find that the action is categorically exempt from the provisions of CEQA pursuant to guidelines Section 15321:
The motion was passed by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Langley, Wright-Scherr, Sherman, Kanhan, and Henderson Noes: None
3 7. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
7.A ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT #18-24, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #8-24 A request for a conditional use permit to operate an amusement arcade, pursuant to Section 18.32.030.H of the Gardena Municipal Code, within an existing tenant space at 1425 West Artesia Boulevard, located in the General Commercial (C -3) zoning district.
Environmental Consideration: The proposed project is being considered for a categorical exemption from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guidelines Section 15301, as an existing facilities project and Section 15061(b)(3).
APPLICANT: Wawa Claw LLC (Representative: Matthew Chi)
LOCATION: 1425 West Artesia -Boulevard, Ste 23 (APN: 6106-034-001)
Community Development Director Greg Tsujiuchi and City Attorney Carmen Vasquez were present to answer any questions.
Ms. Acuña reported to the Commission that an error was made regarding the address listed for the notification of tonight's meeting. She clarified that the correct address is 1425 West Artesia Boulevard for the item being discussed. However, this address was not reflected in the original notification, so the item has been rescheduled for the March 18th meeting. She informed everyone that a new publication is set for this week regarding the project for the March 18th meeting, along with a second request for a similar conditional use permit for an arcade facility located in a different shopping center. Both projects will be published in the Gardena Valley News this upcoming Thursday, and mailers will be resent. Due to the error, no further discussions can take place at this time, and as a result, the item is being postponed.
Ms. Acuña clarified that the applicant's request under Conditional Use Permit #8- 24 pertains to the address 1425 West Artesia Boulevard, Suite 23, which is located in the shopping center known as Gateway Plaza. The information presented in the staff report included in the agenda is accurate and will be represented at the Planning Commission meeting on March 18th.
Director Tsujiuchi added that the error occurred because an extra digit was included in the address and staff members have 10 days to publish the project details in a local newspaper. He noted that while the information received by the Commissioners was correct, what was published was not.
Ms. Acuña explained that due to this error, the public was not aware of the project being presented to the Commission. She emphasized the importance of properly notifying the community in accordance with municipal and state regulations to ensure the request is brought before the Commission appropriately. She also noted that this was why the applicant was not in attendance.
Chair Henderson thanked everyone for the information.
4 8. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Community Development Director, Greg Tsujiuchi announced upcoming city events.
1) 2025 State of the City, Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the Nakaoka Community Center; 6 PM Meet & Greet; and 7 PM Program.
2) Casino Night, Friday, March 14, 2025, at the Nakaoka Community Center; 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Director Tsujiuchi stated that all Commissioners will receive two (2) tickets.
3) City of Gardena Code of Conduct.
Director Tsujiuchi updated the Commissioners on the new City of Gardena Code of Conduct, which was recently approved by the City Council. He emphasized that all appointed officials must read and understand the document, then sign a confirmation receipt and return a copy to the City Clerk’s Office.
City Attorney Vasquez was present to address any questions the Commissioners might have regarding the Code of Conduct. She reassured the Commissioners that even if they had not yet read the document, they could reach out to her with any inquiries. She would be happy to help clarify any aspects of the Code that they were required to review and sign, confirming that they have read and understood it.
Chair Henderson inquired whether the document was due on the 15th. City Attorney Vasquez clarified that, to her knowledge, there is no specific deadline for this document.
However, she noted that the Form 700 is due for all Planning Commissioners by April 1st. She added that the Code of Conduct document is a separate item that was adopted by the City Council at the last council meeting.
Ms. Acuña informed all Commissioners that they must file their Annual Form 700 through Netfile, which must be submitted no later than April 1, 2025. If they need further assistance, they should reach out to the City Clerk's Office.
City Attorney Vasquez also reminded the Commissioners that they will incur a penalty of $10 per day from the FPPC if the Form 700 is not completed by April 1st.
9. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS
1) COMMISSIONER LANGLEY – He commended the staff for their work on the detour route for the Western Ave Railroad Project and expressed hope that the same high standards would be applied to the Normandie Railroad Project.
Director Tsujiuchi informed him that he would bring this to the attention of the Public Works Director.
2) VICE-CHAIR WRIGHT-SCHERR – He shared that he had a great time on the day of the Martin Luther King Parade. He and Commissioner Kanhan rode in the same car.
1 MINUTES
Regular PEQC Meeting of the
Planning and Environmental Quality Commission
Tuesday, March 18, 2025
The Regular PEQC Meeting Notice and Agenda of the Planning and Environmental Quality Commission of the City of Gardena, California, was called to order at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in the Council Chambers at 1700 W. 162nd Street, Gardena, California.
PARTICIPATE BEFORE THE MEETING by emailing the Planning Commission at [email protected] by 5:00 PM on the day of the meeting and write “Public Comment” in the subject line.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 7:04 PM.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Ronald Wright-Scherr led the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Deryl Henderson; Vice- Chair Ronald Wright -Scherr; Commissioner Jules Kanhan; Commissioner Steve Sherman and Commissioner Stephen P. Langley.
Employees present: Director of Community Development Greg Tsujiuchi; Community Development Manager A manda Acuña; Deputy City Attorney Rosemary Koo; and Planning Assistant Kevin La.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – No Items
5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Planning Assistant Kevin La asked if there were any comments from the public and noted for the record that no member of the public wished to speak to the Planning Commission at this time.
Chair Henderson asked for the election of Chair and Vice-Chair to be agendize for the next meeting. Ms. Acuña agreed.
6. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
6.A ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT #18-24, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #8-24 A request for a conditional use permit to operate an amusement arcade within an existing commercial tenant space located in an existing commercial shopping center within the General Commercial (C -3) zoning district, in accordance with Section
18.32.030.H of the Gardena Municipal Code.
2 Environmental Consideration: The proposed project is being considered for a categorical exemption from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guidelines Section 15301, as an existing facilities project and Section 15061(b)(3).
APPLICANT: Wawa Claw LLC (Representative: Matthew Chi)
LOCATION: 1425 West Artesia Boulevard, Ste 23 (APN: 6106-034-001)
Community Development Director Greg Tsujiuchi and Deputy City Attorney Rosemary Koo were present to answer any questions.
Community Development Manager Amanda Acuña presented the Staff Report for Environmental Assessment #18-24 and Conditional Use Permit #8-24 to operate an amusement arcade at 1425 West Artesia Boulevard, Suite 23.
Ms. Acuña presented the zoning map, which indicated that the site is located in the C-3 Zone. The site is situated within Gateway Plaza, a shopping center located at the northwest corner of Artesia Boulevard and Normandie Avenue. A photograph of the site was also displayed.
Ms. Acuña then showed the project floor plan, which encompasses an approximately 1,500 square foot tenant space. The applicant is proposing to establish an amusement arcade facility in this location.
Ms. Acuña discussed the site analysis, explaining that an amusement arcade requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to operate, as outlined in the Gardena Municipal Code (GMC) section 18.23.030.H. An amusement arcade is defined as any place that houses five or more amusement devices, as per the Gardena Municipal Code (GMC) and a Conditional Use Permit is required for any amusement arcade within the C-3 Zone. Furthermore, the City’s Municipal Code mandates that an amusement arcade must obtain an establishment permit in conjunction with the City’s business license regulations.
Ms. Acuña noted that the Commission is being asked to consider for the Conditional Use Permit request and if approved the applicant would be subject to for the amusement arcade establishment permit, subject to the Community Development Director’s decision.
Ms. Acuña clarified the definitions of amusement devices and amusement arcades.
An amusement arcade is five or more devices , and Amusement devices, by the City’s code, refer to any mechanical or electrical machines that require a coin or token for playtime, which include video games, pool tables, air hockey, foosball, pinball machines, or any other similar skilled testing devices. The code specifically calls for mechanical grab machines to be included as amusement devices.
In December 2024, Ms. Acuña noted that WaWa Claw Incorporation applied to operate an arcade facility at the proposed site within Gateway Plaza. The facility is planned to feature 30 claw machine devices. The proposed hours of operation are from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Sunday, with 1 to 2 employees that are conditioned to be present during operating hours. The target audience is individuals ages 3 and older.
3 Ms. Acuña presented the project floor plan for the existing tenant space, identifying the entrance location, the 30 new claw machines, two restrooms, employee counter space, and the exit at the northern end of the space.
Ms. Acuña presented examples of the claw machines that were provided by the applicant but were not part of the agenda.
Ms. Acuña then noted that, according to Gardena Municipal Code section
18.64.030B, amusement arcades must maintain a distance of at least 300 feet from one another. She explained that amusement arcades are defined as having five or more amusement devices, which also include pool tables. She stated that Staff reviewed city records and identified two conditional use permits that had been issued for amusement arcades in separate billiard halls located at: Seoul Billiard – 1898 W. 157
th St., and One Billiard – 15112 S. Western Ave. Additionally, another amusement arcade, Kiddleton, located at 15484 S. Western Ave., is under consideration for approval at the Tozai Plaza shopping center. Ms. Acuña confirmed that all these locations are at least 300 feet away from the subject property i n Gateway Plaza.
Ms. Acuña informed everyone that according to GMC section 18.64.030.C, amusement arcades are required to provide adequate bicycle parking facilities.
However, the Zoning Code does not specify a minimum bicycle parking requirement for non-residential areas. She then presented the project site plan, highlighting the commercial shopping center.
Ms. Acuña noted that staff had reviewed the original records and site area, revealing that there is currently one bike rack located on the site. She emphasized that the staff believes the intention was for the arcade facilities to be frequented by younger individuals on bicycles. However, due to the absence of a specific code requirement for adequate bicycle parking, staff must adhere to city and state standards, which only come into play when there is an increase in vehicle parking. The logic is that an increase in vehicle parking indicates that more people will be visiting the site.
Furthermore, she noted that the conditional use permit for the amusement arcade facility does not increase parking demand. Therefore , it does not theoretically increase the bicycle parking requirement.
Lastly, Ms. Acuña discussed the environmental considerations for the proposed amusement arcade project, for which a conditional use permit is being requested.
Staff conducted an analysis in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) an d found that the proposed project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the CEQA guideline sections:
15301 – Existing Facilities
15061(b)(3) – No significant environmental implications 15300.2 – Not subject to exceptions to the exemptions in CEQA.
Ms. Acuña also noted that public hearing notices were properly advertised in the Gardena Valley News, and mailers were sent to property owners and occupants within a 300-foot radius of the project site on March 6, 2025. At this time, no public comments regarding the project have been received.
4 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: