CITY COUNCIL - November 12, 2024
1. CLOSED SESSION—CALL TO ORDER 5:00 PM
Public Comments:
Mayor Francois called the Closed Session meeting to order at 5:02 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Public Comments:
City Clerk Myra Maravilla announced a quorum.
3. PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE CLOSED SESSION AGENDA
Public Comments:
This Public Comment period is limited to Closed Session agenda items only. Public Comment is limited to three (3) minutes per speaker.
Mayor Francois opened public comment.
No public comment was provided.
4. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
Public Comments:
The City Council recessed to Closed Session at 5:03 p.m.
4.a
Closed Session Minutes
Public Comments:
Approval of minutes of Closed Session held on October 22, 2024.
4.b
Conference with Legal Counsel: Workers Comp Litigation
Public Comments:
Existing Litigation—Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)—(2) Cases The City finds, based on advice from legal counsel, that discussion in open session will prejudice the position of the City in the litigation.
Name of Case: Robert Higgins vs City of Hermosa Beach, administered by Adminsure WCAB Case Number(s): ADJ11093995, ADJ15309858, ADJ Unassigned AdminSure Claim Number(s): 17-1323861, 21-157252, 17-132278 DOI: 9/18/07 – 9/18/17, 07/04/2021, 07/04/2017
Name of Case: Jonathan Sibbald v. City of Hermosa Beach WCAB Case Number: ADJ17934866
CLAIM Number: 23-172878
DOI: 06/30/23
4.c
Conference with Labor Negotiator
Public Comments:
Government Code Section 54957.6
City Negotiator(s): Mayor Dean Francois and City Attorney Patrick Donegan Unrepresented Employee: City Manager
5. OPEN SESSION—CALL TO ORDER 6:00 PM
Public Comments:
Mayor Francois called the Open Session to order at 6:04 p.m.
6. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Public Comments:
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Steve Collins.
7. ROLL CALL
Public Comments:
City Clerk Maravilla announced a quorum.
8. CLOSED SESSION REPORT
Public Comments:
City Attorney Patrick Donegan provided the Closed Session report. No reportable action was taken.
9. ANNOUNCEMENTS—UPCOMING CITY EVENTS
Public Comments:
Mayor Francois provided various announcements. The Mayor thanked the Veterans Memorial Committee and City staff for the Veterans Day Ceremony held on November 11th.
The year 2024 marked the 30
th
anniversary of the installation of the Veterans Memorial site in Hermosa Beach. Mayor Francois also thanked all the Veterans who served and continue to serve.
Hermosa for the Holidays
—
The Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau hosted Hermosa for the Holidays featuring vendor tents, music, carnival rides, tree lighting and more throughout downtown Hermosa Beach from Nov
.
2 2nd
thru
Nov.
24 th
.
Holiday Parking
—
Beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving, the
City
offered complimentary holiday parking to encourage people to visit, dine, and shop locally throughout the holiday season. Visitors may park at red-bagged meters up to the posted time limit at no charge through Christmas Day. The red bags, indicating
complementary parking, were placed on silver meters along Hermosa and Pier Avenues and other commercial areas of the City
.
10. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Public Comments:
This is the time for the City Council to discuss any changes to the order of agenda items.
Moved by:
Councilmember Massey
Seconded by:
Councilmember Detoy
To approve the order of the agenda.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
11. PROCLAMATIONS / PRESENTATIONS
Public Comments:
11.a
RECOGNIZING SHARON STINE ON HER RETIREMENT AND SERVICE TO THE CITY Public Comments:
Chief LeBaron provided remarks recognizing Sharon Stine.
Sharon Stine provided comments.
12. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. SUPPLEMENTAL PowerPoint Item 12.pdf
City Manager Suja Lowenthal provided the City Manager Report.
12.a
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR UPDATE
Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. SUPPLEMENTAL PowerPoint.pdf
Public Works Director Joe SanClemente provided an update on various Public Works projects.
Councilmember Massey requested information about the amount received for the Greenbelt grant funds.
Director SanClemente stated the City recieved $529,000 from the grant fund.
12.b
POLICE CHIEF UPDATE
Public Comments:
Chief Paul LeBaron provided the Police Chief Update.
Councilmember Massey provided comments regarding an incident covered by the Chief's report.
Chief LeBaron responded to Councilmember Massey's comments.
13. PUBLIC COMMENT
Public Comments
Anthony Higgins
Dear City Council,
I believe Joe SanClemente is a capable administrator but much still needs to be done.
Consider the Parks Masterplan just completed by RJM DESIGN Group and that is up for approval tonight (Agenda Item 17b).
RJM didn't really design a damn thing and it cost the tax payers at least $400,000.
Then consider the 2022 CIP study session where Director SanClemente said an element of the Parks Masterplan was to DEFINE the lighting needs in our Community Parks.
RJM DESIGN didn't define the lighting needs either.
Moreover, there were two other Parks Lighting studies in addition to the Parks Masterplan discussed in the May 2022 CIP Study Session that also focused on lighting: CIP 503 the City Park Lighting Conceptual Design and CIP 621 the Comprehensive Downtown Lighting Plan that presumably included the Strand and Noble Park.
During the 2022 CIP Study Session Councilman Jackson repeatedly questioned the wisdom of multiple lighting studies and Director SanClemente reassured Jackson that multiple studies were what was needed to get the Parks Lighting project done more quickly.
Well it's been 30 months since that Study Session and neither CIP 503 nor CIP 621 have started, much less been completed AND the Parks Master plan barely mentions lighting at all.
In fact, all the Parks Masterplan says about lighting is the City needs to a study of Clark Field, Valley Park and South Park lighting needs.
Study begets Study.
i get that priorities change but the City, in setting aside CIP621 Downtown Lighting Comprehensive Plan) that the Economic Development Committee considered a high priority project and that almost certainly had a significant public safety component AND instead spending $400,000 on a 30 year Parks Masterplan requires an explanation.
Moreover, last night around 830pm, a large groups of teenagers gathered at Valley Park and the last two nights cherrybombs or M-80s could be heard coming from the park.
Where are the new park lights?
Where are the obviously needed Valley Park cameras?
Thank You for Considering
anthony higgins
This is the time for members of the public to address the City Council on any items within the Council's jurisdiction and on items where public comment will not be taken (City Manager Reports, City Councilmember Comments, Consent Calendar items not pulled for separate consideration, and Future Agenda Items).
The public is invited to attend and provide public comment. Public comments are limited to two minutes per speaker and shall only be taken from those present in City Council Chambers. No remote public comment will be taken during this time unless required by the Brown Act. A total of thirty minutes will be allocated to this initial public participation item. This time allotment may be modified due to time constraints at the discretion of the Mayor or City Council. Another period is also reserved for general comment later in the meeting for those who could not be heard at this time.
No action will be taken on matters raised during public comment, except that the Council may take action to schedule issues raised during public comment for a future agenda. Speakers with comments regarding City management or departmental operations are encouraged to submit those comments directly to the City Manager. Members of the audience will have a future opportunity to speak on items pulled from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion, Public Hearings, and Municipal Matters when those items are heard.
The following public comment was provided.
In Person Public Comment:
Steve Collins
Trent Larson
Joe Verbrugge
Carolyn Petty
Ira Ellman
Carla Burk
14. CITY COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
Public Comments:
14.a
UPDATES FROM CITY COUNCIL AD HOC SUBCOMMITTEES AND STANDING COMMITTEE DELEGATES/ALTERNATES Public Comments:
Councilmember Detoy provided a brief summary of his attendance at the Greenbelt Trail Renaming Subcommittee with Mayor Pro Tem Saemann.
Mayor Francois provided a brief summary of his attendance at the City of Redondo Beach celebration for reaching Functional Zero on homelessness.
15. CONSENT CALENDAR
Public Comments:
The following matters will be acted upon collectively with a single motion and vote to approve with the majority consent of the City Council. Councilmembers may orally register a negative vote on any Consent Calendar item without pulling the item for separate consideration before the vote on the Consent Calendar. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Councilmember removes an item from the Consent Calendar, either under Approval of the Agenda or under this item before the vote on the Consent Calendar. Items removed for separate discussion will be provided a separate public comment period.
Mayor Francois requested to pull Consent Calendar item 15.n for separate discussion.
Councilmember Detoy requested clarification for item 15.q.
City Manager Lowenthal provided clarification.
City Attorney Donegan provided additional information.
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To pull item 15.n and approve the remainder of the consent calendar.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
15.a
WAIVE READING IN FULL OF ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS ON THE AGENDA Public Comments:
Recommendation:
Staff recommends City Council waive reading in full of all ordinances and resolutions on the agenda and declare that said titles which appear on the public agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To waive reading in full of all ordinances and resolutions on the agenda and declare that said titles which appear on the public agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.
Motion Carried
15.b
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES - 24-CCO-076
Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. City Council Minutes - 24-CCO-076.pdf
2. October 22, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes.pdf
(City Clerk Myra Maravilla)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To approve the minutes for the October 22, 2024, Regular Meeting.
Motion Carried
15.c
APPROVAL OF THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT WITH PEGASUS STUDIOS FOR PROVIDING VIDEO BROADCASTING SERVICES - 24-CCO-072 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. First Amendment Agreement to Pegasus Studios - 24-CCO-072.pdf
2. 1. Pegasus Studios Agreement.pdf
3. 2. Proposed Pegasus Studios First Amendment to Agreement.pdf (City Clerk Myra Maravilla)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To approve the proposed first amendment to an agreement with Pegasus Studios for video broadcasting services to align the agreement with the fiscal year, extend the expiration term to June 30, 2028, increase the annual not-to-exceed amount to $73,900 beginning July 1, 2025, and authorize the City Manager to extend the agreement up to two additional years; and authorize the City Manager to execute and the City Clerk to attest the proposed first amendment subject to approval by the City Attorney.
Motion Carried
15.d
LIST OF REGULAR AND ONGOING CITY BOARD AND COMMISSION APPOINTIVE TERMS THAT WILL EXPIRE DURING THE 2025 CALENDAR YEAR - 24-CCO-071 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Board and Commission Appointments Term Expire During 2025 Calendar Year - 24-CCO-071.pdf
2. 1.2025 Local Appointments List.pdf
(City Clerk Myra Maravilla)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To receive and file the 2025 Local Appointments List, prepared for posting pursuant to State law, of all regular and ongoing Hermosa Beach board, commission, and committee appointive terms, which will expire during the 2025 calendar year.
Motion Carried
15.e
APPOINTMENT OF A REPRESENTATIVE TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY WEST VECTOR AND VECTOR-BORNE DISEASE CONTROL DISTRICT BOARD - 24-CCO-069 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Appointment to West Vector Control - 24-CCO-069.pdf
2. 1. Jim Fasola Application.pdf
(City Clerk Myra Maravilla)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To review the application of Jim Fasola; and consider appointing Jim Fasola as the Hermosa Beach representative to the Los Angeles County West Vector-Borne Disease Control District Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2026.
Motion Carried
15.f
CHECK REGISTERS - 24-AS-045
Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Check Registers 11-12-2024 - 24-AS-045.pdf
2. 1. Check Register 10-16-24.pdf
3. 2. Check Register 10-23-24.pdf
4. 3. Check Register 10-29-24.pdf
5. 4. Check Register 10-30-24.pdf
(Administrative Services Director Brandon Walker)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To ratify the check registers from October 16, 2024, October 23, 2024, October 29, 2024, and October 30, 2024. The Administrative Services Director hereby certifies to the accuracy of the attached demands.
Motion Carried
15.g
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING OFFICERS TO ORDER DEPOSIT AND WITHDRAWAL OF MONIES IN THE LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND (LAIF) - 24-AS-042 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. LAIF Resolution - 24-AS-042.pdf
2. 1. Draft Resolution.pdf
(Administrative Services Director Brandon Walker)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To adopt Resolution RES-24-7461 authorizing the City Manager, Administrative Services Director, and Finance Manager to order deposit and withdrawal of monies in the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF).
Motion Carried
15.h
APPROVAL OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXAMINATION OF SALES AND USE TAX RECORDS - 24-AS-040 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. CDTFA Resolution - 24-AS-040.pdf
2. 1. Draft Resolution(1).pdf
3. 2. Resolution No. 89-5248.pdf
(Administrative Services Director Brandon Walker)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To adopt a resolution of the City Council of the City of Hermosa Beach, California authorizing examination of sales and use tax records.
Motion Carried
15.i
INTRODUCE AN ORDINANCE REPEALING H.B.M.C. SECTION 3.08.020., ADOPT A RESOLUTION SETTING THE SETTLEMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY MANAGER FOR GENERAL LIABILITY AND WORKERS COMPENSATION CLAIMS, AND ADOPT A LITIGATION/CLAIMS MANAGEMENT POLICY - 24-AS-047 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Resolution to Increase City Manager's Settlement Authority - 24-AS-047.pdf
2. 1. Draft Ordinance(1).pdf
3. 2. Draft Resolution.pdf
CEQA: Determine the Ordinance is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act.(Interim Human Resources Manager Cynthia Stafford) Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To introduce by title only and waive first reading of Ordinance ORD-24-1483 of the City of Hermosa Beach, California, repealing Section 3.08.020 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code; and adopt Resolution RES-24-7463 to increase the settlement authority of the City Manager for General Liability and Workers’ Compensation Claims to meet statutory limits set forth in Government Code §935.4 and to adopt a litigation/claims management policy.
Motion Carried
15.j
AN UPDATE FOR THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH TO ACHIEVE GENDER EQUITY THROUGH ITS WORKFORCE, OPERATIONS, AND SERVICES - 24-AS-024 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. AN UPDATE FOR THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH TO ACHIEVE EQUITY IN ITS WORKFORCE, OPERATIONS, AND SERVICES.pdf
2. 1. Resolution No. 19-7218.pdf
(Interim Human Resources Manager Cynthia Stafford)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To receive and file an update to Resolution No.19-7218 to achieve gender equity through its workforce, operations and services.
Motion Carried
15.k
ACTION MINUTES OF THE PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING OF OCTOBER 1, 2024 - 24-CR-031 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. PR Minutes 10-01-2024 - 24-CR-031.pdf
2. 1. Action Minutes of the October 1, 2024 Parks, Recreation and Community Resources Advisory Commission Meeting.pdf (Community Resources Director Lisa Nichols)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To receive and file the action minutes of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources Advisory Commission meeting of October 1, 2024.
Motion Carried
15.l
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE AND AMBULANCE MONTHLY REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER 2024 - 24-CMO-051 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE AND AMBULANCE MONTHLY REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER 2024 - 24-CMO-051.pdf
2. 1. Fire and Ambulance Monthly Report for Sep 2024.pdf (Emergency Management Coordinator Maurice Wright)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To receive and file the September 2024 Fire and Ambulance monthly report.
Motion Carried
15.m
APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS FROM WEST BASIN WATER DISTRICT WATER BOTTLE FILLING STATION GRANT - 24-CMO-050 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. West Basin Grant Fund Appropriation - 24-CMO-050.pdf
2. 1. Attachment 1 - Award Letter.pdf
(Environmental Programs Manager Douglas Krauss)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To accept $2,000 in grant funds from the West Basin Water District; approve estimated revenue of $2,000 in the Grant Fund; and appropriate $2,000 in the Grant Fund for the purchase of a water bottle filling station.
Motion Carried
15.o
APPROVAL OF 2023 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY PROGRAM GRANT SUBRECIPIENT AGREEMENT - 24-PD-007 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Approval of 2023 State Homeland Security Grant Subrecipient Agreement - 24-PD-007.pdf
2. 1. 2023 State Homeland Security Program Subrecipient Agreement.pdf (Police Chief Paul LeBaron)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To accept $65,000 in grants funds from the County of Los Angeles for the 2023 State Homeland Security Program Grant; authorize City Manager to execute and the City Clerk to attest to the Subrecipient Agreement subject to approval by the City Attorney; and appropriate $65,000 and add estimated revenue of $65,000 in the Grants Fund for the State Homeland Security Program grant.
Motion Carried
15.p
PLANNING COMMISSION TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS AND PLANNING COMMISSION TENTATIVE 2025 MEETING SCHEDULE - 24-CDD-079 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Planning Commission Tentative Agenda for December 16, 2024 and Tentative 2025 Meeting Schedule - 24-CDD-079.pdf
2. 1. Planning Commission Tentative Agenda for December 16, 2024.pdf
3. 2. Planning Commission Tentative 2025 Meeting Schedule.pdf (
Planning Manager
Director
Alexis Oropeza
)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To receive and file the December 16, 2024 Planning Commission tentative future agenda and the tentative Planning Commission meeting schedule for 2025.
Motion Carried
15.q
CONSIDERATION TO REMOVE THE UPDATE OF TEMPORARY MINOR SPECIAL EVENT REGULATIONS FROM THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING CODE UPDATE - 24-CDD-071 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. TMSE ZONING CODE UPDATE - 24-CDD-071.pdf
(Planning Manager Alexis Oropeza)
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To update the temporary minor special event regulations separate and apart from the comprehensive zoning code update.
Motion Carried
15.n
VEHICLE PURCHASE FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT - 24-PD-006
Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Vehicle Purchase for Police Department - 24-PD-006.pdf
2. 1. 2024 Tesla Model Y Quote.pdf
(Public Works Director Joseph SanClemente)
Mayor Francois requested additional information about the cost of the vehicle.
Police Chief LeBaron provided information.
Director SanClemente provided information.
Councilmember Massey asked various questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann asked various questions.
Councilmember Massey asked various questions.
Councilmember Jackson asked various questions.
In Person Public Comment:
Donald Santiani
Virtual Public Comment:
Matt McCool
Councilmember Detoy provided comments.
Mayor Francois provided comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann provided comments.
Moved by:
Councilmember Massey
Seconded by:
Councilmember Detoy
To authorize the sole-source purchase of one Tesla Model Y to replace a 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid S in an amount not to exceed $60,000.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
16. PUBLIC HEARINGS—TO COMMENCE AT 6:30 P.M
Public Comments:
16.a
APPROVAL OF NEW 2025 SPECIAL EVENTS AND FIND THE SAME EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT - 24-CR-035 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Approval of New 2025 Special Events - 24-CR-035.pdf
2. 1. Special Events Policy Guide.pdf
3. 2. 2025 Special Events Calendar .pdf
4. 3. Winter Challenge Event Overview.pdf
5. 4. Maya and the Wave Event Overview.pdf
6. SUPPLEMENTAL PowerPoint - 16A.pdf
7. SUPPLEMENTAL Email Item 13.f.pdf
(Senior Recreation Supervisor Brian Sousa)
Mayor Francois opened the Public Hearing.
Senior Recreation Supervisor Brian Sousa provided a presentation.
Councilmember Massey asked various questions.
City Attorney Donegan provided information.
Senior Recreation Supervisor Sousa provided additional information.
Councilmember Detoy asked various questions.
Joey Iside and Isaac Friesan from Hope Chapel Christian Church provided information.
No public comment was provided for this item.
The Public Hearing was closed.
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Councilmember Jackson
To hold a public hearing to approve the Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources Advisory Commission’s recommendation to include the following new special events on the 2025 Special Event Calendar: Winter Challenge on the volleyball courts north of Pier on Friday, February 7 through Saturday, February 8, 2025; and “Maya and the Wave” at the Community Theatre and courtyard on Thursday, May 22, 2025.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
16.b
CONSIDERATION OF ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 24-03, VIA REGULAR ORDINANCE AND URGENCY ORDINANCE, AMENDING CHAPTER 17.21 OF THE HERMOSA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS - 24-CDD-072 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. ZTA-ADUs and JADUs - 24-CDD-072.pdf
2. 1. Draft Ordinance.pdf
3. 2. Planning Commission Resolution No .pdf
4. 3. Draft Urgency Ordinance.pdf
5. 4. Senate Bill 1211 (Chaptered).pdf
6. 5. Assembly Bill 2533 (Chaptered).pdf
7. SUPPLEMENTAL Presentation - 16B.pdf
Jon David
In addition to aligning with state law, Staff recommended to Planning Commission the City go a step farther to overcome common challenges to developing ADUs in Hermosa Beach by 1) allowing building separation between ADUs and another habitable structure to align with the residential Building Code (typically 6-feet) and 2) allow detached ADUs to build to 20ft instead of a more complicated and restrictive 18ft if within ½ miles of transit but 20ft if it has a pitched roof matching the primary dwelling. Staffs idea is to add flexibility and reduce complexity.
During their meeting on this item Planning Commission suggested the minimum required by state law and rejected staffs recommendations that go beyond. Commissioners weighed in that increasing height increased construction cost and obstructs views. That may be their personal opinions and preferences but those concepts should not be considered because 1) property owners and developers are the only ones who reasonably understand the economics of an individual project and 2) Hermosa’s policy is to not allow protection of individual views to be a deciding factor in housing development. ADU's should be no exception! Yes, state housing bills keep piling on every year. Yes, it may be frustrating to you. But rest assured the housing bills are mostly failures that result in little if any housing production. Even the pro-housing groups are frustrated and critical of state policy because Californias bills end up laden with labor requirements, affordability requirements, etc that make good political narrative and cater to special interest groups but inhibit housing production. Californias ADU policy, however, is an exception. ADUs can be produced quickly and profitably. Why not support a program that actually works and benefits the City's housing goals? Why not support staff’s original recommendations that include universal 20ft height limits and 6 ft building separation? CEQA: Determine the action is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under Section 21080.17 of the Public Resources Code. (Planning Manager Alexis Oropeza)
The Public Hearing was opened.
Planning Manager Alexis Oropeza provided a staff presentation.
Mayor Francois asked various questions.
City Attorney Donegan provided information.
City Manager Lowenthal asked various questions.
Planning Manager Oropeza provided information.
City Attorney Donegan provided additional information.
Councilmember Detoy requested information about the height limit.
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann asked various questions about the height limit.
In Person Public Comment:
Donald Santiani
Virtual Public Comment:
Laura Pena
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann provided various comments and expressed support for the Planning Commission's recommendation for building separation and height limit.
Councilmember Massey expressed support for the Planning Commission's recommendation for building separation and staff's recommendation for height limit.
Mayor Francois expressed support for Mayor Pro Tem Saemann’s recommendation.
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann provided additional comments.
Councilmember Jackson expressed support for the Planning Commission's recommendation for building separation and staff's recommendation for height limit.
Councilmember Detoy asked various questions.
City Attorney Donegan provided additional information to Councilmember Detoy’s questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann provided various comments.
Councilmember Massey provided various comments.
Councilmember Detoy expressed support for the Planning Commission's recommendation for building separation and staff's recommendation for height limit.
The Public Hearing was closed.
Moved by:
Councilmember Massey
Seconded by:
Councilmember Detoy
To conduct a public hearing to consider amendments to Hermosa Beach Municipal Code, Title 17, pertaining to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units; determine whether the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act; and introduce, on first reading, the proposed ordinance approving zone text amendment 24-03 as modified to reflect staff's original recommendation to Planning Commission regarding height limit and Planning Commission's recommendation regarding distance between buildings.
Ayes (3)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, and Councilmember Detoy Noes (2)
Mayor Francois, and Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
Motion Carried
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Councilmember Massey
To adopt via urgency ordinance the proposed ordinance approved the proposed zone text amendments.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
16.c
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE USE OF FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDS TO CONSTRUCT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) COMPLIANT SIDEWALK PANELS AND CURB RAMPS - 24-PW-039 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant - 24-PW-039.pdf
2. 1. Attachment 1_Draft Resolution Approving FY 2024-25 Budget.pdf
3. 2. Attachment 2_CDBG Proposed Project Locations Map.pdf
4. SUPPLEMENTAL Presentation - 16C.pdf
(Public Works Director Joe SanClemente)
The Public Hearing was opened.
Public Works Director SanClemente provided a staff presentation.
No public comment was provided for this item.
The Public Hearing was closed.
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To adopt Resolution RES-24-7464 approving the Fiscal Year 2024–25 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program allocating and authorizing the use of $69,398 of funds and acknowledging that an estimated $69,000 in Fiscal Year 2025-26 CDBG funds may be added, after July 1, 2025, to construct Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant sidewalk panels and curb ramps.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
17. MUNICIPAL MATTERS
Public Comments:
17.a
THREE APPOINTMENTS TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION - 24-CCO-073 Attachments
|
Public Comments
1. Public Works Commission Applicant Appointments - 24-CCO-073.pdf
2. 1. Application for Janice Brittain.pdf
3. 2. Application for David Grethen .pdf
4. 3. Application for Scott Hayes.pdf
5. 4. Application for Eric Horne.pdf
6. 5. Application for Anne Williams.pdf
(City Clerk Myra Maravilla)
City Clerk Maravilla provided a staff presentation.
No public comment was provided for this item.
Councilmember Massey provided comments.
City Clerk Maravilla provided information.
City Attorney Donegan provided information.
Councilmember Detoy provided comments.
Moved by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
Seconded by:
Councilmember Detoy
To reappoint the three current incumbent members to the Public Works Commission for terms ending October 31, 2028.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
17.b
REVIEW AND ADOPT THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH PARKS MASTER PLAN AND FIND THE SAME EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) - 24-CR-034 Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Adoption of the 2024 Parks Master Plan - 24-CR-034.pdf
2. 1. 1990 Parks Master Plan .pdf
3. 2. 2024 Parks Master Plan Action Report .pdf
4. 3. 2024 Final Draft Parks Master Plan .pdf
5. 4. 2024 Parks Master Plan Appendix.pdf
6. 6. Adopted Budget and Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Year 2024-25 .pdf
7. 5. RJM Design Group Inc.'s 2024 Parks Master Plan Presentation .pdf
8. SUPPLEMENTAL Presentation - 17B .pdf
9. SUPPLEMENTAL email .pdf
Laura Pena
Please note I've emailed my written public on the Parks Master Plan to the City Clerk and Council due to the limitation of the 5000 characters in this format.
Todd Tullis
I agree with most recommendations of the plan as it pertains to our parks and facilities - they are all good (if unoriginal) ideas! I oppose the premature recommendations in "Key Strategy 6" for increased funding, staffing and titles (including, amazingly, suggestions to hire FTE project managers and park rangers). These are premature because they presume that all recommendations in the plan should be pursued. Given the economic situation of Hermosa Beach, we must get better at prioritizing CIPs/projects. Hard choices need to be made about why we should do X rather than Y, and I ask our Council to use our community values & voices to make those choices. Only when we decide which CIPs/projects are most important should we allocate or add funding or Staff.
Overall I'm underwhelmed by the lack of original thought or analysis in this plan, as well as some lack of attention to detail (how is it possible that visitor traffic for pickleball courts is high on Sundays when the courts are closed?). If this deliverable actually cost us $400k, I hope the City will more carefully consider alternatives and/or reduced scope for future projects of this sort.
Additionally, there are a few items in the plan & appendices that are confusing and/or concerning, among them:
- Concerns about "unpermitted activities" are used to rationalize hiring a FTE Park Ranger, but the stakeholder interview and community engagement details lump this in with "dog waste, dogs on leash, eBikes..." I've heard fellow residents discuss these three divisive topics, but never "unpermitted activities" so I don't understand where this "unpermitted activities" concern is actually coming from - A recommendation to "Hire a project manager to oversee and execute the findings and recommendations of the program" - I've been a consultant in my career...I see what is going on here🙂 - "Currently the City does not maintain 53 volleyball courts within what is known as the "residential zone"...This is a practice the City needs to correct to reduce liability...while ensuring safety for the general public" - unclear what "correct" means in this context but I'd hypothesize the liability risk is far less than the cost of the City trying to maintain these 53 courts (that are used extensively and for the most part well taken care of) Anthony Higgins
please see PDF above for reasons council should NOT approve Parks Masterplan but simply "receive & file" thank you
(Community Resources Director Lisa Nichols)
City Manager Lowenthal provided opening remarks.
RJM Design Group representative Zachary Mueting provided a presentation.
Community Resources Director Lisa Nichols provided a staff presentation.
Mayor Francois asked various questions.
City Manager Lowenthal provided information.
Councilmember Massey asked various questions.
Community Resources Director Nichols provided additional information.
RJM Design Group representative Zachary Mueting provided additional information.
Councilmember Detoy provided comments.
Mayor Francois provided comments.
City Manager Lowenthal provided information.
Councilmember Saemann asked various questions.
Councilmember Jackson asked various questions.
Community Resources Director Nichols provided additional information to Council's questions.
Public Works Director SanClemente provided additional information.
RJM Design Group representative Zachary Mueting provided additional information.
Project Manager John Jones provided comments.
In Person Public Comment:
Mark Mamber
Barbara Ellman
David Grethen
Thomas Moroney
Virtual Public Comment:
Tony Higgins
Laura Pena
Matt McCool
City Council continued to deliberate on this item.
Moved by:
Councilmember Massey
Seconded by:
Councilmember Jackson
To approve and adopt the 2024 Parks Master Plan; and provide feedback on the priorities supported by the Community Resources and Public Works Commissions; and direct staff to advance the goals outlined in the 2024 Parks Master Plan as future funding and staff resources allow.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
Attachment No. 5 . SUPPLEMENTAL Memo was added to item 17.c
17.c
REJECT BID RECEIVED FROM CSI SERVICES AND PROVIDE DIRECTION TO STAFF FOR CIP 682 PARKING LOT D IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT - 24-PW-041 Attachments
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Public Comments
1. CIP 682 PARKING LOT D IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT - REJECT BIDS - 24-PW-041.pdf
2. 1. Bid Summary Log.pdf
3. 2. Bid Documents.pdf
4. 3. Contract Documents and Special Provisions.pdf
5. 4. Project Plans .pdf
6. 5. SUPPLEMENTAL Memo.pdf
7. SUPPLEMENTAL Presentation - 17C .pdf
(Public Works Director Joe SanClemente)
Director SanClemente provided a staff presentation.
Mayor Francois asked various questions.
In Person Public Comment:
David Grethen
Scott Hayes
A motion was made by Councilmember Massey and seconded by Mayor Francois to reject the bid received from CSI Services for CIP 682 Parking Lot D Improvements Project; and authorize staff to readvertise the project.
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann provided a substitute motion to reject the bid and place the project on hold until the 2025-2026 budget discussions.
The City Council continued to deliberate on this item.
Moved by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
Seconded by:
Councilmember Detoy
To immediately reject all bids and place the project on hold until the 2025-2026 budget discussions are held.
Ayes (3)
Councilmember Jackson, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Noes (2)
Councilmember Massey, and Mayor Francois
Motion Carried
17.d
APPROVAL OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITIES OF TORRANCE, HERMOSA BEACH, MANHATTAN BEACH, AND REDONDO BEACH FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE BEACH CITIES GREEN STREETS PROJECT FOR THE BEACH CITIES WATERSHED MANAGEMENT GROUP - 24-CMO-054 Attachments
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Public Comments
1. Green Streets Construction MOU - 24-CMO-054.pdf
2. 1. Draft Resolution - MOU.pdf
3. 2. Draft Memorandum of Understanding .pdf
4. 3. Beach Cities EWMP 2021.pdf
5. 4. 2020 Memorandum of Understanding for Design .pdf
6. 5. Draft Resolution - Construction and Account.pdf
7. 6. Project Plans.pdf
8. SUPPLEMENTAL Presentation - 17D .pdf
(Environmental Programs Manager Douglas Krauss)
Environmental Programs Manager Douglas Krauss provided a staff presentation.
Mayor Francois asked various questions.
Councilmember Massey provided comments.
Councilmember Jackson asked various questions.
Environmental Programs Manager Krauss provided additional information.
No public comment was provided for this item.
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Mayor Pro Tem Saemann
To adopt Resolution RES-24-7465 approving the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Torrance, the City of Hermosa Beach, the City of Manhattan Beach, and the City of Redondo Beach for Implementation of the Beach Cities Green Streets Project for the Beach Cities Watershed Management Group; authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement; and adopt a resolution approving construction of the Hermosa Avenue Green Street project pursuant to Government Code Section 830.6 and establishing a project payment account.
Ayes (5)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Francois, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Motion Carried
17.e
CITY MANAGER CONTRACT AMENDMENT - 24-CA-008
Attachments
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Public Comments
1. City Manager Contract Amendment - 24-CA-008.pdf
2. 1. Resolution No. RES-24-XXXX.pdf
3. 2. Fifth Amendment.pdf
4. 3. Fourth Amendment to City Manager Employment Agreement.pdf
5. 4. Third Amendment to City Manager Employment Agreement.pdf
6. 5. Second Amendment to City Manager Employment Agreement.pdf
7. 6. First Amendment to City Manager Employment Agreement.pdf
8. 7. City Manager Employment Agreement.pdf
Michele Hampton
I am against a bonus for our city manager. Until we get our spending under control and get the projects that have still not been finished and are over budget, our city manager should not be awarded. Stop the unnecessary spending.
Matt McCool
I am respectfully requesting agenda item 17.e “CITY MANAGER CONTRACT AMENDMENT” be moved up on the November 12, 2024 agenda before the public hearings.
This is the most important item of the year! The people have a right to be heard by their elected officials.
The City Manager packed the agenda, and placed her contract item last. This is an intentional act to obstruct transparency and limit public comment. I called this out last year when this item was discussed after midnight. It must not happen again.
As I stated last year, if the City Manager performed at a high level this agenda item would be placed high on the agenda. However, this agenda item is placed at the bottom because the City Manager performed at the bottom.
John Burry
If this City Council should have learned one thing from the defeat of Measure HB, it is the importance of public trust. Trust is hard-won, but easily eroded.
Residents have grown tired of the wasteful spending and the mismanagement of expensive projects. They are tired of being told that the city needs more staff, and that yet again the City Manager needs to be paid a large bonus for outstanding performance.
Once again, the City Manager's performance targets are undisclosed and the subject of her remuneration is scheduled to take place at the last possible moment for this council, probably at midnight.
Seemingly, you have learned nothing about public trust over the last two years. Measure FP was overwhelmingly received in Redondo, and Measure MBB passed in Manhattan Beach. Measure HB failed miserably here, despite (perhaps because of) the best efforts of the city and its surrogates. It's an issue of trust and transparency, rather than economics.
This council and staff need to begin the journey to rebuild public trust. If this handling of the City Manager's contract is an indicator of how you intend to conduct business, then you have a very difficult road ahead. Hermosa Deserves Better.
Anthony Higgins
Dear City Council,
In approving the 2024 sales tax ballot initiative our council could have NEVER imagined that our city manager would try bamboozling the public by telling residents that the city's obviously pro-sales tax glossy-mailers and infomercials were EDUCATIONAL in nature.
I hope you reflect on this when you consider offering the city manager another pay increase or bonus.
And i hope you consider the city manager's strategy to hire a PR firm for about $60k to spin the sales tax increase in part led to another boondoggle: the margin of defeat almost doubled from 54% to 58% comparing the 2022 election results to 2024.
Then consider the Clark building , the parking lot D and the parks restrooms fiascos and the fact that after 6 years of our city managers leadership the city yard requirements have yet to be defined while the budget estimate has ballooned to 22 million dollars.
Once again, I ask the council consider this and reject any City Manager pay increase or bonus and call her to account. anthony higgins.
(City Attorney Patrick Donegan)
City Attorney Donegan provided a staff presentation.
Mayor Francois asked various questions.
City Manager Lowenthal provided information.
Virtual Public Comment:
Anthony Higgins
Matt McCool
Laura Pena
The City Council continued to deliberate on this item.
Moved by:
Councilmember Detoy
Seconded by:
Councilmember Jackson
To approve Resolution RES-24-7466
approving the fifth amendment to the City Manager’s employment agreement increasing her compensation for her seventh year of employment and awarding her a one-time bonus pursuant to the terms of her employment agreement.
Ayes (4)
Councilmember Jackson, Councilmember Massey, Mayor Pro Tem Saemann, and Councilmember Detoy Noes (1)
Mayor Francois
Motion Carried
18. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Public Comments:
This is the time for Councilmembers to schedule future agenda items and to ask questions about the status of previously approved future agenda items. No discussion, debate, or public comment will be taken. Councilmembers should consider the city's work plan when considering new items. The tentative future agenda items document is provided for information only.
Councilmember Detoy requested support to explore best practices for undergrounding in the City. Support was provided by Mayor Pro Tem Saemann and Councilmember Jackson.
Councilmember Jackson asked various questions about the Planning Commission vacancy for Commissioner Pedersen.
City Manager Lowenthal provided information.
City Attorney Donegan provided information.
18.a
TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS - 24-CMO-055
Attachments
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Public Comments
1. 2024-11-12 Tentative Future Agenda - 24-CMO-055.pdf
2. 1. Tentative Future Agenda.pdf
Attached is the current list of tentative future agenda items for Council’s information.
19. PUBLIC COMMENT
Public Comments:
This time is set aside for the public to address the Council on any item of interest within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council that could not be heard under the first public comment opportunity because there were too many prior public speakers and the thirty-minute maximum time limit was exhausted.
20. ADJOURNMENT
Public Comments:
The meeting was adjourned at 12:26 a.m.