9/5 Sup Com — City Council/Public Financing Authority, September 5, 2023

SUPPLEMENTAL

COMMUNICATION
Moore, Tania Madding Dote. 9/5/2023
From: Nikki Reidt <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, September 2, 2023 10:00 PM Agenda lem No.: 3L (23 - 693) To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Appalled...

This city council majority is attempting to make changes that have no purpose. Instead of solving REAL problems, you are creating more and making faceless claims and suggestions. You are using your power to feed social discord and creating more tension and anger in our community. Shame on you! Re: Elections -
Orange County elections are known to be exceptionally safe. If someone is coming to you with questions about this, there are many facts you can provide them...but instead you are choosing to fan the flame and encourage questions. You are creating MORE regulations and making life more difficult for our residents based on your emotions and personal opinions rather than facts and evidence. Requiring ID for voting does NOT increase the integrity of our elections. It does the opposite and is shown to make it MORE difficult for people to vote. Many people do not have a driver's license or passport, government identifications get lost, have wrong addresses when people move and cost money that people may not have. What purpose do cameras at drop boxes serve? Was there any issues at drop boxes in Huntington Beach? Is this really a good use of public funds?
You are not solving a problem, you are creating one. Requiring voter ID, placing cameras at election sites or drop boxes or changing anything about our elections is unnecessary and will do nothing more than cost our city MORE money. You have already wasted enough. There is no need to alter elections in Huntington Beach.

Re: Olympic Flag -
When your original oppressive flag ban was being voted on, many people brought up "what about the sister city flag" and "what about an Olympic flag" but you were so focused on forcing through a flag ban before June so you wouldn't need to consider the PRIDE flag. The hypocrisy and homophobia of this city council majority is disgusting. The time and energy spent on these social battles is a waste. If you would have left the flag policies alone to begin with, we wouldn't need to be wasting more time on this now.

Re: Declaration of Policy on Human Dignity -
The Declaration of Policy on Human Dignity was created as a statement to what Huntington Beach aspires to be. Who could possibly disagree or question the goal that everyone ought to be treated with dignity and respect? Do you believe that people ought to be safe from hate crimes in our community? Is your intention to send a loud message to the white supremecists around that we accept them and their danger to our community? That's what you're doing. This document was created after two heinous hate crimes in our city - a man was brutally murdered in our community and another attempted. Hate crimes are on the rise in Huntington Beach...is this what you want to encourage? The actions of this city council are abhorrent. The timing if this is disgusting. You are not making our city better. You are creating more issues.

You are dismantling policies and programs for no reason other than your personal social agendas. Council member Moser's questions about the appropriateness of Council member Van der Mark sitting on a committee for human dignity was absolutely appropriate and a question many of us have. This council majority is not even pretending to be fair and instead cramming through discriminatory and, likely, unconstitutional policies left and right.

It is no secret that Council member Van der Mark is alleged to be antisemetic and to support white supremecists. If these rumors are not true, she ought to have made a public statement months (years) ago. Council member Moser was bringing up an excellent point and was not accusatory or offensive in any way. She simply asked a question. Can see Mark could have listened and reaponded. Instead. She became hostile and defensive. Unfortunately, this council 1 majority can't handle questions because they don't do any research or base decisions on facts and are functioning from purely emotional stances. What was inappropriate in this instance was the Mayor and City Attorney chiming in and instead of allowing Moser to complete her statement, interrupting and attaching Moser while siding with Van der Mark.

We all have a right to know if there is an antisemetic, white supremecist sympathizer on our city council.

Re: No Mask/No Vaccine Mandate.

I don't believe that any of you are doctors, scientists or public health experts. This has no place in the agenda. This is ridiculous. You already have a choice about wearing a mask or getting vaccinated or not. No one is forcing this on you.

Again, you are creating problems that do NOT exist. Stop wasting our time with your politicized drama.

Re: Dissolving of city boards and committees.

It's is incomprehensible that 4 people think that they, alone, know what is best for an entire community. What do you fear about committees and discussion? Do facts and research scare you? This council was not elected to steamroll decisions and disregard other opinions. The responsibility of a city council is to listen to the people. To consider FACTS, as well as alternate opinions. Instead you have chosen for your small group to meet behind closed doors and make decisions for our entire city without talking to those with actual knowledge and experience in the areas you are altering.

Making decisions behind closed doors without facts or discussions with the people actually involved in the real life, day to day, experiences is unethical. You continue to destroy our city and cost us ridiculous amounts of money in law suits.

What are you trying to do? Do you have no compassion for those of us living here and raising children here or are you just on a personal mission to destroy our city and waste our hard earned money? You have gone to some lows in the past 9 months but surely there are actual issues you could be addressing rather than dismantling declarations that do nothing more than help people feel safe. Stop wasting our time and money with your culture wars.

Disappointed,
Nichole Reidt
Resident of Huntington Beach
2 Moore, Tania
From: Sheila Ellis < [email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 10:33 AM
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); Van Der Mark, Gracey; Moser, Natalie; McKeon, Casey; Kalmick, Dan; Burns, Pat; Bolton, Rhonda; Strickland, Tony
Subject: Tuesday city council meeting agenda
After reviewing the agenda for Tuesday's city council meeting, I am urging all council members to vote no on agenda item numbers 15, 16, 22, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35.

Sheila Ellis
(She/Her)
Moore, Tania
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 11:48 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Ordinance 4031 - City Council Mtg 9/5
Get Outlook for ios
From: pacj <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 10:05:41 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]>; Estanislau, Robin <Robin. Estanislau @surfcity- Subject: Fw: Ordinance 4031- City Council Mtg 9/5
Correction: Ordinance referenced is 4301 not 4031
--- Forwarded Message ---
From: pacj <[email protected]>
To: RobinEstanislau <[email protected]>; [email protected] < [email protected]> Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 at 10:02:58 AM PDT
Subject: Ordinance 4031- City Council Mtg 9/5
There is reference to a Special Events Committee composed of internal staff and three council member Special Events Executive Council Committee. The Special Events Executive Council Committee is described as a standing committee. Are the standing committee meetings pre announced and open to the public? Are the minutes from its meetings published for the public?
Thank you.

Pat Quintana
Moore, Tania
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 11:50 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: 9.5.2023 Agneda Withdraw Items 31 (C) and 34 Get Outlook for iOS
From: Pat Goodman <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 10:45:19 AM
To: Strickland, Tony <[email protected]>; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) < city.council@surfcity- hb.org>; Gates, Michael < [email protected]> Cc: Fikes, Cathy <[email protected]>
Subject: 9.5.2023 Agneda Withdraw Items 31 (C) and 34
Dear Mayor Strickland, City Council Members, and City Attorney Gates, Please withdraw Agenda Items 31 (C) and 34 on the September 5, 2023 HB City Council Agenda.

I reviewed the video of this interaction at the August 1, 2023 city council meeting (approx.., 7 hr., 10 min. mark) between Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark, Councilmember Moser. We see there that councilmember Moser raises the question of qualifications to serve on the council's ad hoc committee to review, revise and /or update the city's Statement on Human Dignity which was recently revised to comply with Federal law, and originally written in response to hate crimes committed in the city.

Councilmember Moser asks Mayor Strickland, and he
agrees, if they could discuss the makeup of the ad hoc
committee. The mayor goes ahead and appoints Mayor
Pro Tem Van Der Mark along with councilmembers
Burns and McKeon to this ad hoc committee of three
councilmembers. After this appointment,
1 Councilmember Moser raises the question of the
qualifications and beliefs of its members, particularly the Mayor Pro Tem because of social media posts over
the years where she is in photos, and at rallies with the hate group, Proud Boys. There were many
interruptions of Ms. Moser during this exchange
besides the Mayor Pro Tem. Mayor Strickland to use
his gavel to pause/stop the interaction. The City
Attorney interrupts later, stating his role as
Parliamentarian, without being called upon by the
mayor to do so. It wasn't our best moment to say the
least. The Mayor Pro Tem is very clear that she never
denied the Holocaust happened throughout this
exchange. Ironically, this exchange exhibits to me the
need for a Human Relations Committee here in HB.

It is commendable that Ms. Van Der Mark's three
friends would want to defend her in any way
possible. However, rather than censure Ms. Moser,
why not request their friend issue a clear statement the sets forth her past associations with groups like the
Proud Boys, why she was photographed with them and
at their rallies, and her beliefs about the Holocaust, (the genocide of European Jews during World War II.

Between 1941 and 1945, Nazi Germany). It would also
2 be helpful to know her beliefs and concrete actions that a city agency may engage in to address hate crimes.

If this issue is not addressed clearly by Mayor Pro Tem, I am sad to say that it will continue to fester in our
community, and continue to come up in public
comments and on social media.

Please withdraw agenda items 31 (C) and 34, in order
to give Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark and opportunity
to respond in her own words about her current and past
association/support/membership in hate groups for the
afety and goodwill of our city.

I look forward to your responses.

Sincerely,
Pat Goodman
Huntington Beach, CA
Moore, Tania
From: Janna Koch <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 4:21 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fw: Vote no on Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 -- Forwarded Message-
From: Janna Koch <[email protected]>
To: [email protected]<[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 at 04:08:32 PM PDT
Subject: Vote no on Agenda items: 15, 16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 To the HB City Council,
RE: City council agenda. VOTE NO on Agenda items
15,16,22,29, 30, 31, 32, 34.35!
Job is to represent open voters in Hi, cotake care of ctua business and properly maintain the city resources and infrastructure. you are not only not down good job my
attention that you intend to squander 1.2 million of the City's dollars or an unnecessary special election. If you want to have a PAC...go out and raise YOUR OWN MONEY! Meanwhile the Central Library has bathrooms not i lot is rapidly degrading, and a host of other
disabled persons.

The City Council is breaking the CA State law by not completing the Housing Element. This is your JOB!
I vote to Censure the HB City Council for not doing it! It is past time to stop acting like a mimic of the dysfunctional House of Representatives in the US Congress and get the job done! Tito and let others who are Better qualified to do so get one the We expect to have the same responsiblities and opportunities to vote as every other citizen of the State of California...it is NOT your job to decide otherwise!
It is highly inappropriate to declare the City of Huntington Beach to be a Non-mask mandate city. Again, we expect to have the same protections eccessitated in a public health crisis as the rest of the citizens of Orange County. I am Covid At-Risk. • my pandemic will NEVER be over. I am also my sole support and need my fellow residents to not make me sick. As to fiscal responsibility, I do not wish the City of HB to have to payout on lawsuits against the city for infecting people by public servants of the city or have to pay for sick days for the entire HB City Hall, HBPD, HBFD, etc. to infect themselves all again. There are areas of public t the fse ves adays 1 buildings that are NECESSARY to mask in during a public health Shamely places use agent city son-impaired bathrooms de the them,
Central Library!!!
Lastly, I value the service of Natalie Mosier on the HB City Council. represents the People of HB better than any other person on the council.

If the city Council members did not have exposure for comments made regarding their integrity, then it would be much more ditticult to do I would be much less successful than Natalie in keeping a proper demeanor in the same circumstances.

Thank you for your attention to these matters...get the job done! Janna Koch
Huntington Beach
[email protected]
2 Moore, Tania
From: Linda Law <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 6:48 PM
To: [email protected]; City Council
Subject: Vote No on Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 Dear Council Members,
Please vote no on agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 at the September 5, 2023 City Council meeting.

I don't even know where to start with my objections to these agenda items.

The proposed charter amendments are unnecessary and would be extremely costly. Over a million dollars to place these amendments on a March 2024 ballot is ridiculous.

There is no evidence of voter fraud that necessitates the city having a separate local election that requires voter id and requires the monitoring of ballot drop boxes.

The City has gotten itself involved in costly anti-housing lawsuits and settled with the Air Show operator for millions when the city is supposedly broke.

The City Council and or the City Attorney have no business determining what books are available in our public libraries.

That is the job of our librarians. Let them do their jobs.

Failing to recognize the transgender community in the revised Statement on Human Dignity is just shameful.

Censuring Council Member Moser for speaking the truth is beyond hypocritical. Having a known racist and anti-semite on the council should be called out every day. There are photos, tapes, and newspaper articles that prove that relationship.

Against staff recommendations, the mayor is recommending that the city choose the lowest ranked Federal Government Affairs lobbyist. Why is that happening?
Proposing that the city ban broad universal mask and vaccine mandates as a response to Covid 19 or its variants is just ill informed. Covid 19 continues to mutate and having mask and vaccine mandates available is just good public health policy.

Dissolving numerous boards with little or no public input is very troubling to say the least.

What's happening with the Climate Action Plan for the City? Our high standards for the City Clerk position and other positions should continue.

Thank you for your time.
1 Moore, Tania
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 7:19 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Vote no on Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 Get Outlook for iOS
From: Janna Koch < [email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 4:08:31 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) < [email protected]> Subject: Vote no on Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 To the HB City Council,
RE: City council agenda. VOTE NO on Agenda items
15,16,22,29, 30, 31, 32, 34. 35!
properly maintain anciey resources and intrastruceure
You are not only not doing a good job ot that, but it has come to my attention that vou intend to sauander 1.2 million of the City's dollars on special election. If you want to have a PAC. • • go out and raise YOUR OWN MONEY! Meanwhile the Central Librarv has bathrooms not lot is rapidly degrading, and a host of other
Pe tues abound including proper
disabled persons.

Orange County. I am Covid At-Risk. -my pandemic will NEVER be over. also my sole support and need my fellow residents to not make me sick. As to fiscal responsibility, I do not wish the City of HB to have to payout on lawsuits against the city for infecting people by public servants ot che citv or have to pav for sick davs for the entire HB City Hall HBPD, etc. to infect themselves all again. There are areas of public buildings that are NECESSARY to mask in during a public health crisis. This is because again, the City has FAILED to properly update name ly places like the tiny, ventilation-impaired bathrooms at the Central Library!!!
Lastly, I value the service of Natalie Mosier on the HB City Council. represents the People of HB better than any other person on the council.

If the City Council members did not have exposure for comments made regarding their integrity, then it would be much more difficult to do I would be much less successful than Natalie in keeping a proper demeanor in the same circumstances.

Thank you for your attention to these matters...get the job done! Janna Koch
Huntington Beach
[email protected]
2 Moore, Tania
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 7:37 AM
To: [email protected]
Subiect: -wd: Oppose Item #15B, #30, #31, #32, #34, #3:

Get Outlook for iOs
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 6:10:16 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]; Subject: Oppose Item #15B, #30, #31, #32, #34, #35
I am apposed to our council majority and City Attorney attempting to change the very fabric of my city of 25 years.

Jessica Stone
"What if today we were just grateful for everything" Charlie Brown.

Moore, Tania
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 7:39 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Comment, 9-5-23 CC mtg., items 15, 16, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35.

Get Outlook for iOS
From: Dan Jamieson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 7:36:12 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) < [email protected]> Subject: Comment, 9-5-23 CC mtg., items 15, 16, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35.

Dear HB City Council:

As a Huntington Beach resident, I appreciate the chance to comment in several items under consideration at the Sept. 5, 2023 council meeting:

Item 15
Please vote NO on item 15, a recommendation to contract with Kahn, Soares, & Conway LLP for State Legislative Advocacy Services and with Stapleton & Associates for Federal Legislative Advocacy Services. It is unclear why these firms were chosen. Stapleton was not highly rated by staff, and Kahn was not rated at all (and appears to focus on agricultural and water law).

HB residents deserve transparency in how lobbying firms are chosen, especially given that the mayor is a professional lobbyist and may have conflicts.
***
Item 16
Please vote NO on item 16, to redirect staff to develop policy options regarding city library materials and safeguards.

This item continues development of the unconstitutional book-banning proposals pushed by the council majority.

Having political actors review and restrict books would be an unconstitutional imposition of extreme religious views into the function of our public library, which is to serve all users regardless of faith or political views. Professional library staff are fully capable of choosing materials for our public library. Concerned parents can screen out anything they feel is unacceptable.

Please stop the book-banning efforts that HB residents clearly oppose. ***
Item 30
1 Please vote NO on Administrative Item 30.

The council majority promised HB voters they would refrain from charter amendments. With this item, they go back on that promise.

Charter amendments must be done with a thoughtful, even-handed, transparent process. The proposed batch of amendments in this item is anything but. The amendments were hatched behind closed doors by the council majority looking to consolidate power within the city attorney's office; prevent the council from investigating malfeasance; help the city attorney's wife get elected as city clerk; cement the anti-Pride flag ordinance into the charter; restrict the city's ability to create affordable housing; and improperly interfere with county-run elections in an attempt to cater to election-conspiracy believers.

If charter amendments are needed, they should be done with an open and rigorous process with public notice and comment, and voted on in a November general election, not the lower-turnout primary election. ***
Item 31
Please vote NO on item 31, dissolving the HB Human Relations Committee, and the Mobile Home Advisory Board.

The city's Human Relations Committee is needed more than ever. Hate incidents and crimes are a continuing problem in our city and county. Dissolving the committee is an affront to the diverse community that lives, works and visits our city.

The Mobile Home Advisory board also serves some of our most economically vulnerable citizens, many of them seniors on limited incomes who face rising rents from aggressive mobile-home park owners. The state Dept. of Housing and Community Development is too far removed from issues impacting local mobile-home residents, and our own advisory board can inform city leaders and HCD about HB-related park issues and violations. ***
Item 32
Please vote NO on item 32, the Ad Hoc Committee's proposed Policy on Human Dignity.

The proposed new statement on human dignity is a major step backward for the people of HB.

The existing Human Dignity statement promises respect for everyone, regardless of "actual or perceived racial background, their nation of origin, the religion they practice, their sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or gender expression, or disability status." The existing statement has clear definitions of hate incidents and crimes, and promises action against hate crimes. It encourages and instructs on how to report hate crimes, and notes the tragic history that gave rise to the Dignity statement.

The proposed new statement has none of this. It does not even mention hate crimes. Instead, it offers up a generic tough-on-crime policy, offering to pursue "all of those who participate in crimes in our community," warning specifically of child abuse, including "sexual grooming." This language is chilling--right-wing extremists have associated grooming with the LGBTQ community.

In a clumsy attempt to address the issue of trans athletes, the new policy seems to attack trans and non-binary people.

It says the city "will recognize from birth the genetic differences between male and female." Will trans and non-binary people be protected? If so, will that protection extend to athletics? Respectfully, the proposed new Dignity statement is a farce. Instead of a robust statement of support for vulnerable groups, it targets trans and non-binary people and those who might "groom" children (the LGBTQ community). As written, the new statement will be an embarrassment for the city. ***
Item 34
Please vote NO on item 34, the Move to Censure Council Member Moser.

Councilmember Moser questioned the appointment of the Mayor Pro Tem, who has a history of associating with white nationalists and once shared Holocaust-denial posts, to the sensitive job of writing a new Dignity statement. This was not improper. The council majority knew they might get this reaction. They got it, and now they can engage in more performative posturing with a censure vote.
***
Item 35
Please vote NO on Councilmember Item 35.

This item submitted by Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark on mask and vaccine mandates, is not needed, and would be an infringement on the freedoms of private businesses to decide such policies for themselves. Likewise, the city of HB, through council, can decide for itself to impose mandates or not within its own facilities.

Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark attempts to justify this item by misrepresenting facts. The Chicago Sun Times story she quotes reported on the Cochrane study of masks. The Sun Times, along with other right-wing media, misquoted the study. The misreporting was debunked by Factcheck.org, and by Cochrane itself, which set the record straight (the effectiveness of masks is uncertain): "Many commentators have claimed that a recently-updated Cochrane Review shows that 'masks don't work', which is an inaccurate and misleading interpretation," Dr. Karla Soares-Weiser, the editor-in-chief of the Cochrane Library, said in a March 10 statement. (https://www.factcheck.org/2023/03/scicheck- what-the-cochrane-review-says-about-masks-for-covid-19-and-what-it-doesnt/) The LA Times story Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark cites reported on a study of records of nearly 800,000 U.S. veterans and the persistence of covid vaccines. Vets protected by the worst performing vaccine, J&J's, were nevertheless 52% less likely to die than their peers who didn't get any shots, according to the story. Other covid vaccines were even more effective. (Because vaccines wear off, booster shots are recommended.) Vaccines have proven effective. The data are clear. It is troubling that HB's Mayor Pro Tem spouts such blatant misinformation.

Dan Jamieson
Huntington Beach
***
3 Moore, Tania
From: H Meyers < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:35 AN
To: [email protected]
Subject: Tuesday City Council meeting
I am a resident of Huntington Beach. I strongly oppose the agenda items related to the city charter amendments, the dissolution of various commissions, the changes to the statement on human dignity, and the proposal to review materials at the city library. The city charter amendments are an affront to democracy, especially the weakening of the requirements for city clerk.

Hildy Meyers
Moore, Tania
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 9:52 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: wd: Vote No on Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31, 32,343! Get Outlook for ios
From: Linda Law <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 9:32:19 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Vote No on Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 Dear Council Members,
Please vote no on agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34,35 at the September 5, 2023 City Council meeting.

I don't even know where to start with my objections to these agenda items.

The proposed charter amendments are unnecessary and would be extremely costly. Over a million dollars to place these amendments on a March 2024 ballot is ridiculous.

There is no evidence of voter fraud that necessitates the city having a separate local election that requires voter id and requires the monitoring of ballot drop boxes.

The City has gotten itself involved in costly anti-housing lawsuits and settled with the Air Show operator for millions when the city is supposedly broke.

The City Council and or the City Attorney have no business determining what books are available in our public libraries.

That is the job of our librarians. Let them do their jobs.

Failing to recognize the transgender community in the revised Statement on Human Dignity is just shameful.

Dissolving numerous boards with little or no public input is very troubling to say the least.

What's happening with the Climate Action Plan for the City? 1 Our high standards for the City Clerk position and other positions should continue.

Thank you for your time.

Moore, Tania
From: Chris Varga <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:11 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: City Council Meeting 9-5-2023
Huntington Beach City Council,
The following is in regards to City Council Meeting scheduled for 9/5/23. I will predict that all of the controversial Agenda Items this week will pass 4-3 with the usual suspects on their side of the fence. The council will again sit through hours of Public Comment as well as many email comments that one would hope might sway at least one council member to vote outside the box. But not this council. The four block majority members of the council continue with their fascist anti-woke agenda even when it doesn't reflect the City of Huntington Beach. I hope they keep you up to 3 AM with public comments this week! Enough with this MAGA agenda playbook.

Anyway, here are my positions on some of the agenda items:

Agenda Item 30 (23-700). NO to any charter changes. The four of you campaigned on NO changes to the charter. Stop the insanity. Stop the Gates family nepotism!
Agenda Item 31(23-693) NO to all these changes. There are a lot of good coming out of these committees with a lot of free volunteer labor! NO changes!
Agenda item 32 (23-734). NO on the changes to the dignity policy. It was just fine the previous version. No changes needed. Stop making work!
Agenda Item 33 (23-732) Agree with this agenda item. The E-Bikes are out of control! This is a start. But we also have a big problem with persons WITH driving licenses. The beach path is a highway with e-bikes going as fast as they can way too often. We also need fines and enforcement! There is signage at numerous places on the beach path that states "Prohibited: Motor Bicycles / Vehicle without permitted". I was taught in engineering school; electric motors are motors! Either changes the signs, law or enforcement. Right now, everything goes! Agenda Item 34 (23-731) NO on this agenda item. Natalie Moser was right to question somethings that many in our city have questioned about Council person Van Der Mark.

Agenda Item 35 (27-738). Just stop with this anti safety ban. Mask work! NO on this agenda item. This is just another check mark in the anti-woke Republican agenda item. Wedge issue BS.

Sincerely,
Chris Varga
Huntington Beach
1 Moore, Tania
From: Lisa Swanson < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:22 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: 9/5/23 Agenda Item 31
Dear City Council Members, 1 urge you to reconsider your proposal to eliminate many of our citizen advisory committees. There are many community members who are passionate about our wonderful city and want to serve and be part of the process to continually improve. It is hard to understand why you do not want to hear from them. I am personally most upset by the proposed dissolution of the Environmental/Sustainability Board which I have been applying to get appointed to for several years. When the last opening occurred due to the passing of Surfrider's beloved Tony Soriano, there were 24 applicants indicating a strong public interest in this Board. This Board has been in existence for decades and reflects the importance of environmental issues to the identity and prosperity of Surf Although I do not have a close personal interest in the other community advisory boards that are proposed for elimination, I am still very disappointed to see the mobile home advisory board on the list because I have been to enough city council meetings to know that this a critical issue to many of our residents. I do not know much about the Youth Board, but this also seems like an important issue for our community.

Thank you for your consideration,
Lisa Swanson
13+yr resident SE Huntington Beach
Moore, Tania
From: MEG ROBINSON <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:36 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Against Item 31C on CC agenda for 9/5/2023
The disbanding of the Human Relations Committee is another slap in the face by this council against varied groups in HB.

This is a committee that brings together the diverse voices in this city and educates the city as a whole. Perhaps that is why you find it so threatening.

I am dismayed but not surprised by your dismantling anything that promotes and celebrates the various groups in HB Margaret Robinson
8788 Coral Spring Ct
206G HB 92646
Moore, Tania
From: Deb Lelchuk < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 12:52 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Items on Tuesday, Sept. 5 agenda
As a resident of Huntington Beach, I am voicing my opposition to the following:

Item No. 31 23-693 Adopt Resolution No. 2023-40, "A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Huntington Beach repealing Resolutions 2002-106 and 2021-66, and dissolving the Human Relations Committee; A Human Relations Committee is a vital part of a city the size of Huntington Beach. It is part of a community-wide effort to promote human dignity. The committee works closely with the Police Department to strictly enforce and monitor all incidents that could be classified as hate crimes and hate incidents.

The 2021 Orange County Hate Crimes Report from the OC Human Relations Commission found that hate incidents and crimes have increased by 165% in the past five years, with over 300 reported hate incidents that year and nearly 100 hate crimes. In Huntington Beach, there were seven hate incidents and seven hate crimes in 2022.

This committee is vital to addressing the growing divisions within our community and | urge the council not to dissolve it. Show the community you support the addressing of this horrendous problem.

Additionally, I oppose per item 32. 23-734, the proposed amended Policy on Human Dignity as adding an unnecessary and inflammatory clause giving the council powers that belong rightly with law enforcement and parents. It is not the councils purvue to determine what constitutes grooming etc.

Further, I oppose item 34. 23-731 the censure of council member Natalie Moser. She was acting within her responsibility to question the qualifications of a fellow council member to serve on an ad hoc committee. Censure is not necessary as her statements did not constitute the views/statements of the City Council, but were solely hers alone and were not inappropriate in light of the topic at hand.

Sincerely, Deborah Lelchuk
16802 Coral Cay Lane, Huntington Beach.
1 Moore, Tania
From: Linda Moon <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 2:58 PM
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: September 5,2023 City Council Agenda
I write in opposition to Agenda Items 16, 30 (A-E), 31(A-K), 32, 33, and 34.

16. The City Council has absolutely no business addressing or determining standards for selection of materials in the public library. The Library is managed and operated by well- educated professional librarians, who have done an outstanding job in selecting materials. There was no public call for council interference until Councilmember Vandermark created a false issue, using a list of materials provided by the radical conservative group Moms for Liberty. Statements that "young children have access to obscene materials" have been proven false. The questioned sexually explicit materials were in the Adult section of the library. Items in the Children's Library relating to homosexuality are age appropriate and subject to parental selection. No "young children" arrive at and select materials without an adult present and parents are notified by email regarding all materials checked out by their children. I've yet to see a toddler arrive at the library alone, and few have the ability to read any written text or understand the context of the items of concern.

30. The proposed charter amendments may not legally be put before the voters on a primary election ballot. Election Code 9255 specifically requires that any charter amendments proposed by the governing body be considered on the General Election ballot. There is no exception that would apply to the proposed action.

The proposed Amendments have been steamrolled through without the opportunity for full public scrutiny. The mostly self-serving amendments have been commingled in a confusing and insufficiently descriptive manner. While charter revision commissions are not mandated by the charter or state statute, they are provided for therein and have been the traditional manner of amending the charter in Huntington Beach. Review by the charter commission, empaneled pursuant to state law, allows input by the public and experts over an extended period of time. Submission on the General Election Ballot allows for their consideration by the largest voting population. The proponent councilmembers are obviously relying on a low-turnout Primary Election to ramrod through amendments that only facilitate their further concentration of control.

After making drastic budget cuts for city services due to reduced revenue and increased costs of litigation and judgments against the city, the expenditure of $1,200,000 is unconscionable.

31. The dissolution of boards and commissions which have provided important and significant input and expertise to the City over many decades is shameful and indicates an unjustified arrogance of the proponent councilmembers in assuming that they know everything there is to know about everything and need no public input. The new council members all promised to listen to the public and invite their participation in decisions relating to the future of the city. This item flies in the face of those promises.

32. The proposed amendment of the City's well-crafted compassionate Policy on Human Dignity is an apparent attempt to diminish the importance of protecting traditionally targeted people of identified classifications. It further denies the existence of those who do not fit into a binary gender classification. An improper religious reference is also relied upon to justify its provisions. The city has no legal control over the limitation of gender participation in activities and the human dignity statement is without any legal significance to the enforcement of civil rights. However, it does identify the city as one that is either welcoming and protective to all or one in which the residents and their leaders are intolerant and discriminatory. I hope we will not be seen as the latter.

33. This item creates another costly bureaucracy that would improperly distinguish rules for the operation of e-bikes from those of surrounding cities in a manner that could not be easily enforced. If the City is concerned about e-bikes, the issues of concern and appropriate amendments to the California Vehicle Code should be discussed with our State Representatives.

34. This proposal to censure Councilmember Moser is outrageous. It highlights the vindictiveness and personal animosity of the proponent councilmembers. Those councilmembers have declined to support any standards of decorum for council meetings and have repeatedly condoned assaultive language being used in reference to Councilmembers Kalmick, Moser and Bolton by members of the public and themselves. The attempt to censure Councilmember Moser for asking that Councilmember Vandermark acknowledge the existence of the Holocaust before taking a position on the Human Relations Commission is absurd. It was Councilmember Vandermark who responded with a screaming nonresponsive diatribe. This item will likely be heard in the early hours of the morning when there will be little audience for this totally unwarranted action. A mature and reasonable action would be to request that staff draft a rational policy of council decorum.

Linda Sapiro Moon
[email protected]
2 Moore, Tania
From: Lorraine Gayer < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 3:50 PM
To: [email protected]
Co: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF)
Subject: Letter to Huntington Beach City Council Regarding Agenda Items for September 5, 2023 City Council Meeting
To: The Huntington Beach City Council
From: Lorraine Gayer
Huntington Beach Resident Since 1970
Voter
September 4, 2023
To the members of The Huntington Beach City Council:

I am concerned about a number of agenda items for the September 5, 2023, city council meeting. My specific concerns are as follows.

I am adamantly opposed to the shameful measures proposed by the Huntington Beach City Council majority to weaken the city's long-standing stated commitment to protect human dignity.

I also oppose the dissolution of the city's Human Relations Committee at a time when our city needs more than ever to enhance communication between the various communities within our city.

I oppose the elimination of other volunteer city committees. This action, if passed, diminishes the involvement of city residents in city governance. This makes the city less democratic
I also oppose the proposed "No Mask, No Vaccine Mandate" measure. We live in a time of unpredictable health needs. It is foolish to foreclose the ability of the city to deal with whatever health threats may arise in the future. This measure puts the very lives of citizens of the city I also oppose the censure of Councilperson Moser. Councilperson Moser's free speech rights as an elected representative should be protected. Should this censure pass, 1 urge Councilperson Moser to seek a legal remedy.

In the many years that I have lived here since 1970, I have been impressed by the openness and decency in our city. The actions proposed by the current Huntington Beach City Council majority make me ashamed of my city government. Additionally, the actions/positions taken by the city council majority and the city attorney put the city in financial jeopardy.

Lorraine Gayer
16682 Lovell Lane
Huntington Beach CA 92647
Moore, Tania
From: laura sire < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 4:02 PM
To:

Cc: Saura [email protected]
Subject: Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34.35. (Agenda dated Sept 5, 2023) Dear Mayor Strickland, Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark, and Councilmembers Bolton, Burns, Kalmick, and Moser,
My name is Laura Sire. I moved to Huntington Beach with my family when I was 14 years old. I am now 75 years old so I've been here a long time, and have witnessed many changes over the decades. I was a realtor in this city for about 10 years, and then made a career change to teaching and taught 1st grade for 16 years. The last decade or so I've enjoyed volunteering and being of service to HB.

Currently, I've been experiencing some health issues which have necessitated me stepping back from my activities. However, 1 am writing today out of the urgency of the crisis I see the governance of Huntington Beach facing.

I am appalled at what has occurred since the council majority Strickland, Van Der Mark, McKeon, and Burns were sworn in December 2022. Public comments are heard but not really heard.

The "Thank you for being here" mechanically repeated by Mayor Strickland rings hollow as the CC majority deconstructs all that is positive, inclusive, compassionate, and sound city government with their robotic, pre-determined and thoughtless 4-3 votes.

That said, still in hopes of being heard I strongly ask for a NO vote on Agenda items 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34, and 35.

Although ALL should be voted down, #'s 30,31,32,34 and 35 particularly warrant NO votes:
-30. VOTE NO. Introducing city charter amendment ballot measures for Mar 5, 2023 primary election. *This item is the epitome of hypocrisy as it was brought forward by councilmembers who have repeatedly stated that we should follow and not deviate from our City Charter. This is written as only ONE agenda item and did not involve the electorate of our city. There are 3 measures but actually include many negative impacts such as wasted $$$, voter ID requirement and other conditions that make voting less accessible especially to those whose voices specifically NEED to be heard. *This gives the Mayor alone the power to cancel city council meetings. *$1,200,000 to be spent from City's general fund which is $ taxpayer $.

It solidifies the removal of the Pride Flag flying on city property.g *Overall #30 must be a NO vote. If it is passed and these amendments are on the March ballot, it will be a HUGE waste of money. When folks understand what these measures truly mean they will be voted down.

There will be a campaign to educate and protect HB and ALL people living here by and before March 5th.

THIS WILL NOT PASS ON MARCH 5TH!
1 -31 VOTE NO -Approve the dissolution of the various and many boards, commissions, and committees of HB. This is a clear and dangerous move to silence the voice of the people. It reeks of authoritarianism.
-32 VOTE NO, NO NO! Consider adhoc's proposed policy on statement of human dignity. After reading this abhorrent and insulting so called statement of human dignity, I find myself agreeing with Councilmember Burns, however this is the version that should be cancelled. This draft excludes the LGBTQIA+ community with an emphasis on those who identify as transgender. The fear and suffering that this would cause those individuals including the youth in our city is immeasurable and this statement is shameful and reprehensible.
-34 NO on Censure of Councilmember Moser. I watched the exchange between Councilmember Moser and Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark multiple times. Why is this on the agenda? Councilmember Moser was in control and simply asked needed questions of Van Der Mark when Mayor Strickland announced that the ad-hoc committee to amend the human dignity statement would include her.

Considering Councilmember Van Der Mark's social media history, removal from a school board, and photos with white supremacists, Councilmember Moser was performing her due diligence in representing all of the people of Huntington Beach in making her best effort at obtaining the truth. Councilmember VDM was the one who attacked Councilmember Moser, interrupting her and yelling at her. She was the one who breached decorum. It is obvious to anyone who watches the clip.

Subject: Re: Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34.35. (Agenda dated Sept 5, 2023) Nicely put together.

Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
On Monday, September 4, 2023, 4:02 PM, laura sire < [email protected]> wrote:

Dear Mayor Strickland, Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark, and Councilmembers Bolton, Burns, Kalmick, and Moser,
My name is Laura Sire. I moved to Huntington Beach with my family when I was 14 years old. I am now 75 years old so I've been here a long time, and have witnessed many changes over the decades. I was a realtor in this city for about 10 years, and then made a career change to teaching and taught 1st grade for 16 years. The last decade or so l've enjoyed volunteering and being of service to HB.

Currently, I've been experiencing some health issues which have necessitated me stepping back from my activities. However, I am writing today out of the urgency of the crisis I see the governance of Huntington Beach facing.

I am appalled at what has occurred since the council majority Strickland, Van Der Mark, McKeon, and Burns were sworn in December 2022. Public comments are heard but not really heard.

That said, still in hopes of being heard I strongly ask for a NO vote on Agenda items 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34, and 35.

Although ALL should be voted down, #'s 30,31,32,34 and 35 particularly warrant NO votes:
-30. VOTE NO. Introducing city charter amendment ballot measures for Mar 5, 2023 primary election.
*This item is the epitome of hypocrisy as it was brought forward by councilmembers who have repeatedly stated that we should follow and not deviate from our City Charter. This is written as only ONE agenda item and did not involve the electorate of our city. There are 3 measures but actually include many negative impacts such as wasted S$$, voter ID requirement and other conditions that make voting less accessible especially to those whose voices specifically NEED to be heard. 1 *This gives the Mayor alone the power to cancel city council meetings. *$1,200,000 to be spent from City's general fund which is $ taxpayer $.

There will be a campaign to educate and protect HB and ALL people living here by and before March 5th.

THIS WILL NOT PASS ON MARCH 5TH!
-31 VOTE NO -Approve the dissolution of the various and many boards, commissions, and committees of HB. This is a clear and dangerous move to silence the voice of the people. It reeks of authoritarianism.
-32 VOTE NO, NO NO! Consider adhoc's proposed policy on statement of human dignity. After reading this abhorrent and insulting so called statement of human dignity, I find myself agreeing with Councilmember Burns, however this is the version that should be cancelled. This draft excludes the LGBTQIA+ community with an emphasis on those who identify as transgender. The fear and suffering that this would cause those individuals including the youth in our city is immeasurable and this statement is shameful and reprehensible.
-34 NO on Censure of Councilmember Moser. I watched the exchange between Councilmember Moser and Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark multiple times. Why is this on the agenda? Councilmember Moser was in control and simply asked needed questions of Van Der Mark when Mayor Strickland announced that the ad-hoc committee to amend the human dignity statement would include her. Considering Councilmember Van Der Mark's social media history, removal from a school board, and photos with white supremacists, Councilmember Moser was performing her due diligence in representing all of the people of Huntington Beach in making her best effort at obtaining the truth. Councilmember VD was the one who attacked Councilmember Moser, interrupting her and yelling at her. She was the one who breached decorum. It is obvious to anyone who watches the clip.

You owe Councilmember Moser an apology. And because of her highly emotional and hostile denial (which is in opposition to data) we the people of HB are still left wondering and wanting only to know the truth concerning the Councilmember who is in this leadership position.
#35 proposed by Councilmember Van Der Mark is ignorant, reckless, and dangerous to the health and safety of HB residents. VOTE NO!
Sincerely,
Laura Sire
(she/her)
PS I along with other residents will be watching Tuesday. 2 Moore, Tania
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 4:47 PM
To: laura sire; [email protected]
Cc: laura sire
Subject: Re: Agenda items: 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34.35. (Agenda dated Sept 5, 2023) Laura, that is a great letter!! Thanks for letting me read it. I know you'll be there in spirit tomorrow night. V Sent from the all new AOL app for ios
On Monday, September 4, 2023, 4:02 PM, laura sire < [email protected]> wrote:

I am appalled at what has occurred since the council majority Strickland, Van Der Mark, McKeon, and Burns were sworn in December 2022. Public comments are heard but not really heard
The "Thank you for being here" mechanically repeated by Mayor Strickland rings hollow as the CC majority deconstructs all that is positive, inclusive, compassionate, and sound city government with their robotic, pre-determined and thoughtless 4-3 votes.

That said, still in hopes of being heard I strongly ask for a NO vote on Agenda items 15,16,22,29,30,31,32,34, and 35.

Although ALL should be voted down, #'s 30,31,32,34 and 35 particularly warrant NO votes:
-30. VOTE NO. Introducing city charter amendment ballot measures for Mar 5, 2023 primary election.
*This item is the epitome of hypocrisy as it was brought forward by councilmembers who have repeatedly stated that we should follow and not deviate from our City Charter. This is written as only ONE agenda item and did not involve the electorate of our city. There are 3 measures but actually include many negative impacts such as wasted $$$, voter ID requirement and other conditions that make voting less accessible especially to those whose voices specifically NEED to be heard 1 *This gives the Mayor alone the power to cancel city council meetings. *$1,200,000 to be spent from City's general fund which is $ taxpayer $.

There will be a campaign to educate and protect HB and ALL people living here by and before March 5th.

THIS WILL NOT PASS ON MARCH 5TH!
-31 VOTE NO -Approve the dissolution of the various and many boards, commissions, and committees of HB. This is a clear and dangerous move to silence the voice of the people. It reeks of authoritarianism.
-32 VOTE NO, NO NO! Consider adhoc's proposed policy on statement of human dignity. After reading this abhorrent and insulting so called statement of human dignity, I find myself agreeing with Councilmember Burns, however this is the version that should be cancelled. This draft excludes the LGBTQIA+ community with an emphasis on those who identify as transgender. The fear and suffering that this would cause those individuals including the youth in our city is immeasurable and this statement is shameful and reprehensible.
-34 NO on Censure of Councilmember Moser. I watched the exchange between Councilmember Moser and Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark multiple times. Why is this on the agenda? Councilmember Moser was in control and simply asked needed questions of Van Der Mark when Mayor Strickland announced that the ad-hoc committee to amend the human dignity statement would include her. Considering Councilmember Van Der Mark's social media history, removal from a school board, and photos with white supremacists, Councilmember Moser was performing her due diligence in representing all of the people of Huntington Beach in making her best effort at obtaining the truth. Councilmember VDM was the one who attacked Councilmember Moser, interrupting her and yelling at her. She was the one who breached decorum. It is obvious to anyone who watches the clip.

You owe Councilmember Moser an apology. And because of her highly emotional and hostile denial (which is in opposition to data) we the people of HB are still left wondering and wanting only to know the truth concerning the Councilmember who is in this leadership position.
#35 proposed by Councilmember Van Der Mark is ignorant, reckless, and dangerous to the health and safety of HB residents. VOTE NO!
Sincerely,
Laura Sire
(she/her)
PS I along with other residents will be watching Tuesday. 2 Moore, Tania
From: Annilise Flanagan-Frankl <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 5:58 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Comments
As a resident of Huntington Beach I was to express my opinion in a public format since I cannot attend the meeting on September 5, 2023.

1. The Huntington Beach City Council SHOULD NOT CENSOR Councilwoman Natalie Moser for questioning Mayor Pro Tem Gracey Van Der Mark's ability to appropriately participate in a committee to amend the city's Declaration of Policy on Human Dignity. Gracey Van Der Mark has a long history of defending history on the atrocities of the Holocaust and her friendships with the terrorist organization - the Proud Boys.

2. I OPPOSE THE UNNECESSARY ELECTION IN MARCH 2024, TO ADD AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY'S CHARTER. THIS CITY COUNCIL IS SPENDING TAXPAYERS' HARD EARNED MONE.

3. I OPPOSE THE CONTINUED SPENDING OF MY MONEY TO THE KENNEDY COMMISSION. AGAINM, THIS CITY COUNCIL IS SPENDING TAXPAYERS' MONEY ON ISSUES

MAKING HUNTINGTON BEACH SEEM TO BE AN UNWELCOMING COMMUNITY TO ANYONE WHO DOESN'T "FIT" THE MAJORITY OF THOSE ON THE COUNCILS' DESCRIPTION OF "APPROPRIATE FOR THE COMMUNITY".

4. I oppose any action which would allow the City Attorney to expand his staff and to find a mechanism for his wife to become a city employee!! Nepotism is not tolerated!!!

5. I OPPOSE THE SPENDING OF MY TAX MONEY TO FUND THE AIRSHOW! THERE ARE BOTH ENVIRONMENTAL AND PRACTICAL REASONS TO NOT HAVE THE AIRSHOW. I AM

APPALLED AT THE SPENDING OF TAXPAYER MONEY FOR THE MAJORITY ON THE CITY

COUNCIL TO INGRATIATE THEMSELVES WITH FUTURE POTENTIAL DONORS TO THEIR POLITICAL CAREERS.

6. I OPPOSE THE DISBANDING OF COMMITTEES WITH CURRENT VOLUNTEERS PROVIDING FREE PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES TO THE CITY. DISBANDING THESE COMMITTEES

MEANS IN THE FUTURE, THE CITY WILL HAVE TO PAY PROFESSIONALS IN AREAS IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY.

Lastly, I am frustrated by the majority of City Council Members. I strongly suggest reading the book "White Privilege"!
--
Annilise M. Flanagan-Frankl, M.A.
1 CounselingPsychologist
Nationally Certified School Psychologist
Remember - the past is over, the future is a mystery, and today is a gift. That is why it is called the PRESENT.

Make today count.

Call: 847-226-3119
2 Moore, Tania
From: Juana Mueller < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:22 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Council Agenda, Sept. 5, 2023
Dear City Council of Huntington Beach,
Respectfully, I consider a number of items on this Sept. 5, 2023 Council Agenda dangerous to our City and I believe they lead toward a dismantling of a democratic way of governance.

Therefore I ask for a NO vote o the following items:
#30 (no charter amendments, no March 5, 2024 ballot)
#31 (no dissolving boards and committees)
#32 (no change to policy on human dignity)
#34 (no censure of Councilmember Moser)
#35 ((no resolution to be "no mask no vaccine" city)
Respectfully submitted,
Sincerely,
Juana Mueller.

Switzer, Donna
From: Jessamyn Garner < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:33 AM
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Please oppose agenda items 15, 16, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35 Dear Huntington Beach City Council,
I wish I could attend the meeting tonight, but unfortunately I was exposed to Covid over the weekend. I want to keep my neighbors safe so I plan to stay home.

As a resident of Huntington Beach, I am appalled by many items on tonight's agenda. The policies and decisions that are being considered are hurtful to minorities in this community and they do not represent my I urge you to oppose agenda items 15, 16, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, and 35.

Specifically, as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I reject the statement of Human Dignity that has been warped to include transphobic rhetoric that will directly impact my ability to live in this community.

I know based on previous behavior and voting records from the council that this email and the hundreds of other comments you will receive in the next 18 hours will not likely change your minds. Just know that your constituents are paying attention to your actions and we will vote accordingly. Making it harder for us to vote and passing threatening policies will not deter us from showing up to the polls. On the contrary, it will galvanize us and we will show up in even greater numbers.

We won't allow this city to continue to be led by hateful rhetoric and exclusionary policies.

Jessamyn Garner
(they/them)
Switzer, Donna
From: Ann Palmer < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:04 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda item support 19, 31, 32, 34, 3!
App was frozen this morning.
- Ann Palmer
Switzer, Donna
From: LISE MILLER < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:56 AM
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Oppose 15B, 30, 31, 32, 34, and 35
Dear Council,
Please consider the following recommendations:

Oppose Item #15B
There is no explanation why the Council would hire the lowest rated advocacy firm when judged by our own Intergovernmental Relations Committee. A rubric was developed for evaluating the proposals that were submitted in response to the RFP and then the IRC recommended hiring the highest ranked firm, but the Council is poised to hire the lowest ranked firm instead. Without explanation, this seems to be a waste of our tax dollars.

Oppose Item #30
I strongly oppose moving any of the proposed charter amendments to the primary ballot. They were not drafted in accordance with our own rules or charter requirements. There was no citizen commission, only a 3 person ad hoc committee that developed these behind closed doors. None of them are needed for good governance of our city.

Oppose Item #31
I strongly oppose dissolving the city's commissions and committees. They are made up of citizens which allow the Council to have the most direct input from our citizens on varying topics of concern in our city.

Oppose Item #32
I strongly oppose the adoption of the ad hoc committee's "rewrite" of the Policy on Human Dignity. The 2021 version was thorough, complete and inclusive. Not only is this new version incomplete, it is actually exclusive and transphobic. I would be embarrassed for people to know that I live in a city that has published such a horrible document.

Oppose Item #34
I strongly oppose censuring Councilmember Moser for asking a relevant question. When Mayor Pro Tem Van Der Mark was selected to be part of the ad hoc committee to reevaluate a policy that addresses the Holocaust and hate crimes, it is certainly relevant to know if any of the 3 members charged with that task holds any biases. Van Der Mark has never publicly answered the questions that have been swirling around the community for years. I am more concerned that Van Der Mark responded to the reasonable query by shouting and calling Moser a liar. That seems a much more egregious offense.

Oppose Item #35
There have been no mask or vaccine mandates in place for months, if not years. This agenda item seems to be placed just to get people riled up (as if there isn't enough on this agenda). I oppose this waste of time.

Thank you!
Sent from my iPad
1 Switzer, Donna
From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:01 AM
To: [email protected].

Subject: Comments - 9/5/23 Council agenda items
This evening's council meeting agenda contains a number of items of concern to me, a newer resident of California and Huntington Beach. The Council's recent trend toward tossing-out solid, carefully considered policies and traditions in favor of hastily drawn substitutes is troubling. Below are a few specifics:
• Agenda #16: I oppose the City's attempt to involve itself in determining appropriate materials for its public libraries.
• Agenda #30: I oppose the City's attempt to hastily alter the City Charter. For many reasons, these resolutions should be tabled. Charter amendments deserve more thorough public discussion and opportunities for input before putting them before the electorate.

Agenda #31: | oppose the wholesale dissolution of long-standing boards and commissions based upon recommendations from a committee that met for a short time and in secret. Good government suffers when elected officials cut off channels for obtaining input from educated volunteers who thoroughly and thoughtfully offer advice and/or collect data on specialized topics.

Shirley Nixon
8655 Fresno Circle #501C
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
#31
Switzer, Donna
From: Joanna Weiss < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:00 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: City Council Proposals
Dear HB City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my opposition to the re-writing of the City's Statement of Human Dignity, the elimination of several citizen boards and commissions, the censure of Councilwoman Natalie Moser, ballot measures to ban flying the Pride Flag, and requiring voters to use IDs for city elections (among other voting rights revisions). These proposals are the latest attempts of a concerning trend from the Huntington Beach City Council. As a champion of democracy and a fierce LGBTQ+ ally, I oppose these measures which would limit democratic participation in our local elections and only further inflict harm on our LGBTQ+ community.

Government has the power and responsibility to promote democracy and to create welcoming and safe environments for all of our citizens, especially those in marginalized communities. Instead, what we have seen from the Huntington Beach City Council is a relentless attack on our democratic norms and the trans and LGBTQ+ community.

I urge the board to reject the proposals to put these measures on the March 5th primary ballot, which would also save the city upwards of $1.5 million.

Sincerely,
Joanna Weiss
31 Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:45 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: FW: Comments Re: 9/5 Meeting
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:07 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) < [email protected]> Subject: FW: Comments Re: 9/5 Meeting
Please reword the fourth bullet as follows: Censuring a council member for questioning the suitability of a colleague to a very important role *destroys* appropriate and responsible oversight.

From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 7:38 AM
To: '[email protected]'<[email protected]> Subject: Comments Re: 9/5 Meeting
I'll make it brief:
• Dissolution of commissions that make Huntington Beach a more civil place to live makes residents wonder who you're serving. Please reconsider.
• Discouraging the use of masks and vaccines demonstrates a lack of lessons learned. • There is no demonstrated fact-based need to restrict voting in Huntington Beach. • Censuring a council member for questioning the suitability of a colleague to a very important role is called appropriate and responsible oversight.
• Any statement on human dignity should reflect the entire community, and should not reflect the particular religious or ideological views of individual council members.

I'd venture a guess the majority of registered voters in Huntington Beach don't approve of city council members who breach the public trust, ignore public health needs, restrict voting rights, censure oversight, or limit human dignity with personal views. Remember: We vote. And you will see a tremendous get out the vote effort for 2024.

Elaine Meigs
Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:45 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: FW: Agenda Item #31
-----Original Message-----
From: Laura Julyne <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:17 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda Item #31
I am against the dissolution of Agenda #31, sub:C The dissolution of the Human Relations Committee and sub:E of the same Agenda Item The dissolution of the Mobile Home Advisory Board.

Both Advisory Boards serve a major purpose in this city and are needed to advise City Council.

Laura Lara
Switzer, Donna
From: Karen Marie Carroll <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:06 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda Items
Mayor Strickland and Members of the City Council
I am writing in opposition to or with serious concern regarding the following items on the 9/5/23 City Council Meeting Agenda: Item 30. 23-700, 31. 23-693, 26. 23-707, Item 27. 23-704, Item 28. 23-733, 15 23-700, and 16. 23-741
Item 30. 23-700- This item marks acceleration of a trajectory putting control of our city into the hands of extremists who are already providing their friends and associates opportunities to profit through secret settlements and now a re-do of bidding for contracts.

What is being proposed appears to build on actions already taken that clearly benefit the new majority - along with their friends and family. Financial gain and political ambition are equally apparent. I point to the following:
1) At the outset of your terms, you upped the limits on campaign contributions that give you quite an advantage in campaigns to come. I contributed to several candidates in the last election, and it was difficult for me financially. But I gave the limit and thought it was fair because there were limitations in place for all candidates. The current majority, however, was strategically supported by investors and groups many of which are outside of our city. 2) You propose re-arranging election cycles that would permit City Attorney Michael Gates and his wife Kelly Gates to run together, without reasonable limits on what they could spend together in a very well financed campaign. Included is a reduction of the requirements for City Clerk, which would permit Ms. Gates to run. Moving election oversight from the County to the City Attorney and City Clerk is ridiculous, unnecessary, and expensive. The optics are terrible! Further, it plays to the myth that there is election fraud here, for which there is no evidence.

Items 31. 23-693, particularly points I), J), and K)
This agenda item would change the application requirements for local contracts that open the door for persons, agencies, or firms that organize our local events. Will Code Four and Kevin Elliot be selected to run the 4th of July Parade and other city events too? We have heard that the Blue Angels 1 and other armed forces units arrange airshows without a middleman like Mr. Elliott. That is the way it is done in other locations, such as Seattle.

Item 15. 23-673
I question the change to accept the staff recommendations for federal lobbying consultants. Why accept the lowest ranked vendor to provide legislative analysis for our city? I understand that Mayor Strickland has received political contributions from that contractor. Really, this is the best that Huntington Beach deserves? Could there be any more evidence of political payback? Item 16. 23-741
Cultural issues outside of the those that actually matter to all residents were presented with a strategy of shock. Are you saying the extreme examples you found were in books in our library and schools in our city? I think not. I assure you, most of us do not want you to take on our parenting, just do the normal business of governing our city.
2 Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 10:23 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: FW: Comments on agenda items for 9/5/2023 Council Meeting From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 10:21 AM
To: [email protected].

Subject: Comments on agenda items for 9/5/2023 Council Meeting Dear Council Members & associated staff,
Please consider my comments, pasted below.

Thank you,
Shirley Nixon
8655 Fresno Circle #501C
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
This evening's council meeting agenda contains a number of items of concern to me, a newer resident of California and Huntington Beach. The Council's recent trend toward tossing-out solid, carefully considered policies and traditions in favor of hastily drawn substitutes is troubling. Below are a few specifics:
• Agenda #16: I oppose the City's attempt to involve itself in determining appropriate materials for its public libraries.
• Agenda #30: I oppose the City's attempt to hastily alter the City Charter. For many reasons, these resolutions should be tabled. Charter amendments deserve more thorough public discussion and opportunities for input before putting them before the electorate.
• Agenda #31: l oppose the wholesale dissolution of long-standing boards and commissions based upon recommendations from a committee that met for a short time and in secret. Good government suffers when elected officials cut off channels for obtaining input from educated volunteers who thoroughly and thoughtfully offer advice and/or collect data on specialized topics. 1 Switzer, Donna
From: Ada Hand <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:45 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Item 31 - No
I speak against your dissolving the Human Relations Committee and the Mobile Home Advisory Board, both of which have helped individuals and groups of people in this community for decades. Your misguided attempts at leadership are making Huntington Beach a laughing stock. We know you took $$ from mobile home park owners and now you are doing their bidding. We will remember this.
-
Ada J. Hand, Secretary
H.B. Mobile Home Resident Coalition
714-717-1294 (cell)
[email protected]
Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:05 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: FW: 9/5 City Council Feedback
From: Doug Schneider < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:04 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) < [email protected]> • Subject: 9/5 City Council Feedback
To Whom it May Concern:

I am a long-time resident of Huntington Beach and love the community, but have been troubled by the actions of the new City Council majority. The best qualities of our American democracy are justice, equality, and due process of law. Our government is made to represent the electorate. These qualities do not seem to be priorities of the council majority, judging by many recent actions and many more under consideration currently.

Secret ad hoc meetings, concealing the terms of major legal settlements and bypassing public comment on key issues suggest that the council majority does not want the public to know about their actions or to have a voice in them. Inviting more money into the political process as the majority has recently done sends a message that influence is for sale.

I don't have confidence that this council majority will do the right thing, but I am writing to include my voice in the public record. I am opposed to agenda items 16, 30, 31, 32, 34 and 35.

Sincerely,
Doug Schneider
Switzer, Donna
From: Celeste Rybicki <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 7:53 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Disgusted but not Defeated, NO on items 15,16, 22, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35 Dear City Council Majority,
I am sure I'm not the first to mention that the attempt to throw all these issues on the agenda today, the day after a holiday long weekend, is a slimy attempt to sneak them all in without giving the public adequate time to realize what you're doing. I don't believe this will change how you vote, you've proven time and time again you do not care how the residents of Huntington Beach really feel. However, I am writing to have it on record, so you cannot deny that your constituents have reached out in opposition.

I and strongly against censuring Councilwoman Moser. Nothing she said was incorrect or inappropriate, she repeated the same concerns many of us have about the Mayor Pro Tem. I do feel that GVDM lashing out against her, interrupting and calling her a liar was unprofessional and inappropriate. If you're going to consider censure / would direct that towards VanDerMark.

I am against the proposed amendments to the city charter. For a group that ran on keeping the city charter as is... I am so confused as to why this is even happening. I didn't vote for any of you so I'm not particularly shocked or disappointed but I assume many who voted for you do feel deceived.

I am so, so, so opposed to the modified Policy on Human Dignity. It is, to put it lightly, wholly undignified. If this offensive monstrosity passes I expect there to be so much public pushback causing embarrassment (and very likely loss of business) for our city. I can say from personal experience, in the past year I have had 3 pride flags stolen from my front yard and in the past 8 years I have had zero attempts at grooming or anything inappropriate towards my children by the HB librarians or public school system or drag queens, for that matter.

I'm writing this morning, not from a place of fear - because I am not afraid that you four (plus Gates, that's a whole other corrupt mess) can truly destroy our city. I'm writing because I have hope that the good, kind, honest and loving community I know here far far outnumbers you and your small-minded attempts. So here's one more email letting you know we see what you're trying to do. I oppose items 15,16, 22, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35. I oppose your fascist, bigoted power grabs.

Celeste Rybicki
HB resident and mother of 3
Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 6:09 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Oppose Agenda Items #30, #31, #32, 34 and #35 Get Outlook for ios
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 11:56:31 PM
To: [email protected]<[email protected]>; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Oppose Agenda Items #30, #31, #32, #34 and #35 Dear Council Members,
Oppose Agenda Item #30
I am writing in opposition to all Charter amendments as proposed. The Orange County voting process is functioning exceptionally well, and there is no need for the City of Huntington Beach to insert itself into the process at all. There is no valid reason to spend money to "fix" what is not broken. The underlying message of these proposed voting process changes is clearly an attempt to impose the council majority's false beliefs of voter fraud onto the citizens of HB.

It is also clear that Michael Gates is unduly influencing policy and changes to the City Charter to serve his own interests. The citizens of HB need to pay attention here. The City Attorney is an employee of the City, and thereby serves all residents. He reports to the City Council and is not the final say on anything. Where are the checks and balances in these proposed changes to the City Attorney's role? Oppose Agenda Items #31, #32, and #34
Mr. Strickland has demonstrated a very biased and narrow-minded approach to his role as Mayor. He has had ample opportunity to bridge the divides that exist in this city. This is evidenced in his appointment of only his like-minded colleagues on the council to almost every committee, to the exclusion of the minority members. Although, thanks to Mr. Strickland, the minority on the council are not getting to do much on any committee, the minority retains an extremely strong base of support. We would like to see their expertise, intelligence and empathy put to good use on council matters, and not just be shoved aside.

Moser multiple times and didn't give her a chance to complete her thoughts. Also, I didn't catch which council member it was who told Ms. Moser, "well, don't think," but whoever that was deserves to be censured.

Mr. Strickland could have shown some open-mindedness by including one of the non-majority council members on the Ad-Hoc committee to revise the policy on Human Dignity. If he had, perhaps the tone of this entire council might have been changed for the better. Openness and willingness to see and hear others' points of view takes courage, and sadly I don't see that in Mr. Strickland. The dissolution of the Human Relations Committee also reflects a lack of courage on the part of Mr. Burns and Ms. Van Der Mark, and demonstrates that they don't really care about issues faced by ALL 1 residents, only those who agree with their opinions.

To follow up on that, the new draft policy on Human Dignity is appalling. It is clearly discriminating against LGBTQ+ residents and visitors, and in particular, transgender people. It also doesn't address hate incidents and crimes that DO occur in our city against all minorities. I do not understand the fixation on sexual grooming. Again, this is where the majority council members are imposing their beliefs on all residents. As much as you may not like it, minorities of all kinds live in our city, and all have the same rights. HB has a very bad reputation for intolerance and bigotry, and I would not be surprised if this goes against the city during the selection of host cities for the Olympic Games.

Oppose Agenda Item #35
I am also concerned with the ignorance exhibited in Ms. Van Der Mark's "No mask and vaccine mandate" proposal. There are no mandates in place, and there are unlikely to be any in the future. However, Covid-19 continues to take lives, and it has been scientifically proven that masks and vaccines help prevent infections, make them shorter, less serious and reduce fatalities. What is wrong with that? Respectfully,
Anne Gollay
2 Switzer, Donna
From: Melanie Bergeland < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 6:56 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: September 05, 2023 City Council - Agenda items for meeting Dear City Council ~
I have the following comments for the amendments:
23-734 Human Dignity
I see no reason to amend the Policy on Human Dignity. The current policy addresses this subject matter in its entirety.
23-700 Measure 1 Voting and Election
I see no reason to change any of Huntington Beach's current voting policies. They have been proven safe and accurate. We should be encouraging people to vote as our right and not impeding the ability to vote.

To downgrade the City Clerk's education requirements to any four-year Bachelor's degree is a great disservice to the city.
23-700 Measure 3 section 303 - Please explain this further. I feel meeting commitments to regularly scheduled meetings is a show of transparency, dedication to office and commitment to the residents.
23-693 I am very concerned that dissolution of many of the citizen committees will negatively impact the citizens of this city. The value added to these groups are: Continue transparency between local government to residents, open communications and exchange of ideas, allow citizens an avenue to understand city operations, and the city is able to tap into experts in any given area for guidance.

Long time resident
Melanie Bergeland
Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 6:07 AM
To: [email protected]
Subiect: Fwd: Proposed Agenda for Sept. 5
Get Outlook for iOs
From: Jeanne Whitesell <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:19:12 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Proposed Agenda for Sept. 5
Dear City Councils members,
I read the Agenda for the September 5 City Council meeting and want to state my concerns.

First I am appalled at Item 32, the Human Dignity document, which results in NO Dignity for some Huntington Beach citizens. Are we trying to take Huntington Beach back to the Dark Ages? Second, I'm also against Item 22, which will use reserve funds for lawyers' fees. Why are we supporting lawyers to bring more unnecessary lawsuits? There needs to be more information and openness on where this money is going.

Third, I'm concerned about Item 16 which seems to me to be an effort to damage one of the great institutions in HB, our wonderful libraries and librarians.

Other Agenda Items I'm opposed to are 15, 29, 30, 31, 34 and 35.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Whitesell
17922 Shoreham Lane
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
714-846-8978
[email protected]
Switzer, Donna
From: Diane < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:07 AM
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Oppose Item #31
I strongly oppose dissolving the city's commissions and committees. Each of the commissions and committees are made up of citizens which allow the Council to have the most direct input from our citizens on varying topics of concern in our city. Turning a deaf ear to the concerns of the residents doesn't make issues go away. It just makes you bad leaders.

Sincerely,
Diane James
31 Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 6:07 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: CITY COUNCIL LETTER - SEPTEMBER 5, 2023
Get Outlook for iOs
From: MJ Baretich <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:27:28 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) < [email protected]> Subject: CITY COUNCIL LETTER - SEPTEMBER 5, 2023
September 5, 2023
Dear Mayor and Council Members,
My Name is Mary Jo Baretich
I have been a resident in HB for over 40 years.

To put the Mobile Home Advisory Board in the perspective of importance, let me remind you that the largest City in California, Los Angeles, has a similar Board whose members will be shocked when they hear about the dissolving of the Huntington Beach MHAB. The Los Angeles Board is called the Mobile Home Park Task Force (MHPTF). In the past, I have attended their meetings, assisting mobilehome residents with their presentations and also spoke regarding important issues that the Board could address and solve. I was impressed with their organization and willingness to handle some very difficult problems.. and avoid expensive lawsuits.

Our MHAB is just as important to our City as the LA Task Force is to Los Angeles, and the Mission is the same.

The Mobile Home Advisory Board (MHAB) is an advisory group made up of mobilehome owners, mobilehome park owners, and independent residents who do not live in mobilehomes. It was established in order to provide a specific forum which allows for discussion of and solutions to issues in the 18 mobilehome parks, made up of around 7000 residents, and to provide feedback for changes in policies or procedures. These leaders share their expertise and provide strategic policy recommendations with the Mayor and City Council through their Liaisons and Staff. And, over the years, potential lawsuits have been stopped by the interaction and solution-solving actions of this Board.

Besides being set up to engage the community in problem solving, the Board members and attending homeowners have been fortunate that this Board was set up also as an educational tool by recruiting presenters from the State, business, and non-profit community to speak on matters affecting mobile home park owners and residents within Huntington Beach. 1 It was suggested by the Ad Hoc Committee that, "Any conflict resolution issues between mobile home owners and park owners could be directed to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), which regulates mobilehome parks. City staff also can connect residents to appropriate City and community resources".

To clarify, neither HCD nor the City Staff have anything to do with many of the issues that we have. Yes, we can go to HCD to resolve Title 25 Health and Safety issues and Mobilehome Residency Law Violations by park owners or management. But, for resolutions of misunderstandings between mobilehome homeowners and their managers and park owners, our MHAB in the past has been able to have some very positive dialogs to iron out these misunderstandings and have helped to bring all parties in those mobile home communities working together to make safer and more congenial communities.

This is why we have a local Board - to work out the conflicts locally and avoid lawsuits.

Rather than push through this dissolution, I suggest that the Ad Hoc Committee members meet with the MHAB members and listen to their viewpoints and suggestions.

Thank you.

Mary Jo Baretich
Mobile Home Advisory Board member
HOA President, Cabrillo Beachfront Village
Vice President, Golden State Manufactured-home Owners League (GSMOL) (714) 465-0932
2 Switzer, Donna
From: Anne Gollay < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 11:57 PM
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Oppose Agenda Items #30, #31, #32, #34 and #35 Dear Council Members,
Oppose Agenda Item #30
I am writing in opposition to all Charter amendments as proposed. The Orange County voting process is functioning exceptionally well, and there is no need for the City of Huntington Beach to insert itself into the process at all. There is no valid reason to spend money to "fix" what is not broken. The underlying message of these proposed voting process changes is clearly an attempt to impose the council majority's false beliefs of voter fraud onto the citizens of HB.

It is also clear that Michael Gates is unduly influencing policy and changes to the City Charter to serve his own interests.

The citizens of HB need to pay attention here. The City Attorney is an employee of the City, and thereby serves all residents. He reports to the City Council and is not the final say on anything. Where are the checks and balances in these proposed changes to the City Attorney's role?
Oppose Agenda Items #31, #32, and #34
Mr. Strickland has demonstrated a very biased and narrow-minded approach to his role as Mayor. He has had ample opportunity to bridge the divides that exist in this city. This is evidenced in his appointment of only his like-minded colleagues on the council to almost every committee, to the exclusion of the minority members. Although, thanks to Mr.

Strickland, the minority on the council are not getting to do much on any committee, the minority retains an extremely strong base of support. We would like to see their expertise, intelligence and empathy put to good use on council matters, and not just be shoved aside.

A prime example of Mr. Strickland's bias is wanting to censure Ms. Moser, after it was very clearly Ms. Van Der Mark who interrupted Ms. Moser to begin with, and began yelling at Ms. Moser. Mr. Strickland and others interrupted Ms. Moser multiple times and didn't give her a chance to complete her thoughts. Also, I didn't catch which council member it was who told Ms. Moser, "well, don't think," but whoever that was deserves to be censured.

Mr. Strickland could have shown some open-mindedness by including one of the non-majority council members on the Ad-Hoc committee to revise the policy on Human Dignity. If he had, perhaps the tone of this entire council might have been changed for the better. Openness and willingness to see and hear others' points of view takes courage, and sadly ! don't see that in Mr. Strickland. The dissolution of the Human Relations Committee also reflects a lack of courage on the part of Mr. Burns and Ms. Van Der Mark, and demonstrates that they don't really care about issues faced by ALL residents, only those who agree with their opinions.

Oppose Agenda Item #35
1 I am also concerned with the ignorance exhibited in Ms. Van Der Mark's "No mask and vaccine mandate" proposal.

There are no mandates in place, and there are unlikely to be any in the future. However, Covid-19 continues to take lives, and it has been scientifically proven that masks and vaccines help prevent infections, make them shorter, less serious and reduce fatalities. What is wrong with that?
Respectfully,
Anne Gollay
2 31
Switzer, Donna
From: Scott Malabarba < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 11:16 PM
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: regarding multiple agenda items for the Sept 5 council meeting Dear Huntington Beach City Council members,
Council members Moser, Kalmick, and Bolton, thank you for your ongoing courage and integrity.

For the council as a whole, my comments on a number of agenda items for September 5 follow.

In (wary) support of 23-732, e-bikes
This looks like a genuine effort to address a real problem that falls with the city council's purview. Excellent, please do more of that!
In opposition to 23-731, censure of Natalie Moser
The Proud Boys is an hate group that harbors criminals, terrorists, and traitors to this nation. Its purpose is to do harm to entire segments of the American population, including tens of thousands of citizens of the city you serve. So, yes, if an elected official has any association with this organization or espouses its beliefs, such as that the Holocaust was a hoax, that is relevant. And it is fair to ask if they are the right person to revise a policy that was authored to take a stand against those very beliefs.

This censure not about civility. It is a blatant attempt to silence a council member who asked a question that some don't want answered.

In opposition to 23-734, revising the policy on human dignity. "Protect children!" Of course -- everyone wants to protect children.

If you were sincere, you would know that queer and trans youth face drastically elevated risk of bullying, harassment, sexual assault, and suicide, and you would use your position to support and protect them.

Most of us are not looking to the city government to tell us how gender roles should work or what they suppose the differences between the sexes to be. Furthermore, given the history of this city council in attacking librarians and educators, I find this wording around sports to be concerning. Will you next target PE teachers? I am not sure what to make of the paragraph stating that the council will "...vigorously fight criminal activity that risks some one's [sic] freedoms..." Does it mean to imply that the police and city authorities have not been pursuing the apprehension of criminals? Or perhaps, in light of the censure of Ms. Moser, it's a threat: violate our freedom to hurt queer people without consequence and we'll turn the law on you. "...lend your voice in support of treating and respecting all people equally." An admirable sentiment, and | look forward to you all joining me with your voice in support of treating and respecting queer and trans people equally. 1 Let's be honest -- this was never a good faith attempt. It was only ever about erasing the original intent of a policy on human dignity that has been in place for decades. You could just leave it alone and move on.

In opposition to 23-700, special election and charter amendment Prior to and during the June 26 special council meeting, we were told that the city was facing budget shortfalls in the upcoming years and that major cuts across most city departments would be necessary. The city will be paying out 8 million+ dollars in lawsuits. So how can the city afford 1.2 million for this election, plus ongoing and unspecified costs for items like running elections?
The structure of the proposed ballot measures is manipulative. Consistently, I see a prominent voter-baiting item (election takeover, ban Pride flags at City Hall) mixed in with completely unrelated items that look innocuous but add power and reduce accountability for the council majority and city attorney.

Every ballot item is a terrible idea (with the possible exception of the Measure C update, which sounds benign, but at this point who knows?).

Good-faith and well-authored ballot measures would be clearly and simply structured and allow voters to separately choose on unrelated items. This special election will probably happen, so I can only hope that HB votes smarter this time Comment on 23-741, "safeguards" for library materials.

Of course the library staff has asked for more time -- you have presented them with an insuperable problem.

The library contains thousands of books that many reasonable parents would agree are inappropriate for young readers: most of the horror, thriller, suspense, and true crime sections; much of fantasy, science fiction, and literature; some history; and the entire romance section (most of us, of course, just pay attention to our kids and don't expect these books to be locked up). If you were sincere, you would be concerned about all of these and not just Genderqueer.

If you were sincere, you would have also noted that commercial bookstores stock the same books. There's little point in "protecting" children from these books at the library if they can just read them at Barnes and Noble. So you'll need to go tell store management that they must rearrange their displays to meet your requirements. And then get sued (again).

I hope some of you have realized that this whole effort is a can of worms that will accomplish nothing and cost the city time, money, and people. You could just make a note to better publicize the library's existing policies and move on.

Comment on 23-726, payouts from litigation reserves
These lawsuits predate current leadership. However, I would hope that upon having to pay out millions of dollars in taxpayer money, the city would learn its lesson and not do it again. Yet, the city is constantly embroiled in lawsuits over housing; the current council has doubled down on its stubborn refusal to comply with decades-old state law. It's not "fighting for HB" if you keep losing.

In opposition to 23-738, anti-mask and anti-vax nonsense This is pure theater. Attempting to override any county or state policies will probably just get the city sued (again). What is most amusing about this item is that the people who are cheering for it never really cared, not even when people were dying of Covid in HB every day. They certainly are not waiting for permission from the city council to rip off their masks. This accomplishes nothing and makes HB look stupid. 2 Comment on 23-693, dissolve various committees and boards I have no background on this matter. Perhaps it is entirely benign. However, in the context of other activities of the current city council, such as 23-700, I am suspicious about the unexplained dissolution of the Environmental and Sustainability Board, the Smart Cities and Technology Committed, and the Youth Board.

Comment on 23-673, IRC contracts
I would never have noticed this were it not pointed out to me. "...staff proposes to recommend to the City Council to approve a 2-year professional services agreement for Federal legislative advocacy services with Van Scoyoc & Associations and another 2-year professional services agreement for State legislative advocacy services with Mercury"
But the plan is to "to execute a Professional Services Contract between the City of Huntington Beach and Stapleton & Associates for Federal Legislative Advocacy Services", the lowest- ranked vendor with just over half the overall score of the recommended vendor? I have no background on this matter. Again, however, in the context of other activities of the current city council, such as 23-700, it looks suspicious and I have to wonder what underlying motives might be at play.

Thank you for your time and attention.

Sincerely,
Scott Malabarba, HB resident
3 Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:00 PM
To:

Subject: 2, 34, and 35 on the September 5, 2023 HB Cit
Get Outlook for ios
From: Pat Goodman < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 9:26:33 PM
To: Strickland, Tony <[email protected]>; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) < [email protected]> Cc: Fikes, Cathy <[email protected]>
Subject: Oppose Items # 15, 16, 30, 32, 34, and 35 on the September 5, 2023 HB City Council Agenda Dear Mayor Strickland and City Council,
I submit my comments in addition to my previous email to Oppose Agenda Items # 31 C and # 34, to you with the understanding that not one of you received a majority of eligible votes in the elections in which you were elected to office. With this consideration in mind, I hope that your votes on Tuesday night will reflect the best interest of all of the people who look to you to represent them, and do what is best to have a well-run American beach city in the 21st century.

Oppose # 15- Consider Intergovernmental Relations Committee (IRC) recommendation to approve and authorize execution of Professional Services Contracts with Kahn, Soares, & Conway LLP for State Legislative Advocacy Services and with Stapleton & Associates for Federal Legislative Advocacy Services
Why would the council approve a contract with the least qualified applicant, Stapleton & Associates, per the RFP analysis?
In addition there are 3 contracts identified in items # 26, 27, 28 that are to be rescinded. Why? The RFP process is very costly and time consuming, and in these cases for projects that will benefit residents. Why would the city go back to the beginning of the RFP process. Please explain the need to do this.

Oppose #16, 30, 32, and 35 these items have no place in the operation of a well-run American beach city in the 21st century. These items appear to be political statements addressed to a minority of people and political supporters in city that highlight ideological differences between neighbors and family members and will only serve to anger and agitate the community and stain the reputation of Huntington Beach. Please withdraw these items from the agenda.

Oppose # 16 - Redirect staff to return to City Council on October 17, 2023 with actionable policy options regarding City library materials and safeguards We are blessed with an excellent library system here in Huntington Beach with excellent staff, enthusiastic volunteers, and wonderful patrons. Our library has a system in place to review questionable items raised by members of the community. There is a library commission, responsive library staff and ways for parents to monitor their child's book selections. Use the tools in place to address any questions or concerns.

Oppose # 30 - Consider the submission of 3 Charter amendment ballot measures for voter approval at the March 5, 2024 Statewide Primary Election, and the adoption of Resolution Nos. 2023-42, 2023-43, 2023-44 and 2023-45
Please reconsider these charter amendments. You've not engaged the community to identify the citizens' concerns around these issues. Take the time needed to include the public in this process in order for a successful outcome.

Amendment # 1
Voter ID - what's wrong with the current system of signature verification? More In-person voting locations - will there be separate municipal ballots? Will voters be able to mail them to the City Clerk or OC Registrar of Voters? Monitoring (Ballot?) Drop Boxes - who monitors?
Several questions on the election administration, cost to the city, and coordination with the county. What benefit is derived from pursuing the administration of the municipal elections? What are the costs? What problems and challenges have occurred with the current administration of elections in Huntington Beach? How do these measures protect from voter intimidation?
Clarify voters elect the City Attorney as the city's legal counsel free from interference from city officials
I am most concerned with Amendment #1 office of City Attorney amendments.

This is a consolidation of power around the office of City Attorney and a blow to voter protections.

This is a tremendous overreach and consolidation of power including the issues of independence, transparency, accountability by the City Attorney. This office serves the legal interests of the city (the people) and by extension the city council. If there is a conflict of interest by the city attorney's office on a legal matter such as wrongful termination claims from employees and the City Attorney. How can the City Attorney represent and defend the city and her/himself in such a case? The council must solicit legal opinion from an independent attorney outside of the city's employees in order to defend itself. The City Attorney must take direction from the Council and be a resource to the City 2 Manager, Police and Fire chiefs and other city leadership, and if, for some reason he/she cannot fulfill their role to defend the city.

Amendment # 2
Provide that the only flags that shall be displayed by the City on City property are:
the U.S., County of Orange, City of HB flags, and the Pow, Armed Forces flags Adopt a Two -Year Budget
City Clerk * City Treasurer elections to the gubernatorial cycle These are mostly unnecessary, except the adoption of a Two Year Budget. Some economy will be realized. - enough said.

Amendment # 3
Require voter approval of any City transaction that forgives, etc. the collection of property (taxes) in excess of $100,000 per year, except acquisition of property for parks or infrastructure.

Why do we elect representatives? I hope to carry out the business of the city. Why handcuff councilmembers from resources to address inadequate housing opportunities for its residents. The two properties brought in to provide middle income housing and encourage the possibility of living - working - playing in the same city. Why not provide an opportunity for people to live according to their means and aspire to owning a home in the same city? Wouldn't that provide economic advantage to the city in the long term? The # 1 responsibility for the city is to address the housing needs of its residents. You do that through zoning and developer incentives. This action is not forced on any council.

Oppose Item # 31 B, C, D, E, F, and H - this sweeping agenda item to dissolve and consolidate boards and commissions. Huntington Beach takes pride in its citizen participation and volunteerism. Boards and commissions provide support and oversight functions to the city by interested citizens willing to volunteer their time and expertise on particular subjects.

Update exceptions to Sec. 612 (Measure C) to allow certain children's playground equipment, park-related utility structures and public restrooms be built or improved with limitation
Please be careful to not encroach on precious open space.

Update the procedures to cancel a regular City Council meeting 3 Another example of consolidation of power into the hands of one elected official.

Please don't approve this.

Oppose # 35 - Submitted by Mayor Pro Teem Van Der Mark - Resolution Declaring City to be a "No Mask and No Vaccine Mandate" City
The County of Orange has the responsibility, and resources to issue public health safe guards. Viruses don't have any bounds. Please don't meddle in an arena of public health that the city has no expertise or resources to manage.

Thank you for considering my comments.

Pat Goodman
31 Switzer, Donna
From: MICKIE REINERTSON < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 9:48 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Council agenda for September 5, 2023
I have read the agenda for the upcoming council meeting. I sincerely hope the council considers each item in light of the whole community and realize that many of the items do not represent a large portion of the population. I for one do not think many of the ideas are needed and some are harmful to the future of the city. For instance, eliminating volunteer citizens boards and commissions is the opposite of what is needed to ensure the people have a voice. Particularly the environmental and the youth boards. I have not understood what is gained by eliminating these boards.

It seems that money is being spent in areas that I question the need. Why would Huntington Beach need a lobbyist? Also the payouts for questionable lawsuits. I hope the public is able to hear the reasoning behind each expenditure.

Please have an open mind to people who may not agree with your opinions. Give everyone a chance to voice their opinion and learn from people who have a different perspective. I know I have learned from people who I have disagreed with and found valued information when I gave them a chance to explain their ideas.
31 Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 9:04 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Information to the City Council members
Get Outlook for iOs
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:58:56 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Information to the City Council members
Greetings to all HB Councilmembers:

We would like you to NOT
Censure a councilmember
Disband anymore more boards or commissions
Or use the statement of Human Dignaty that the new group of councilmembers designed.

Sincerely,
Ron and Jean Nagy
Switzer, Donna
From: Levin, Shannon
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:35 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Agenda Item #3
Get Outlook for ios
From: Kathy McGuire <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 7:54:22 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda Item #31
Vote no on Item #31. We need our boards and commissions to keep communications open between the citizens and the HB government. Maintain these entities.

City Council/Public Financing AuthoritySeptember 5, 2023

City Council/Public Financing Authority
September 5, 2023