Regular Meeting Minutes
City Council/Public Financing Authority
City of Huntington Beach
Tuesday,Augu st 18,2026
3:30 PM - Council Chambers
6:00 PM - Council Chambers
Civic Center, 2000 Main Street
Huntington Beach, California 92648
A video recording of the 3:30 PM and 6:00 PM portions of this meeting is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, and archived at https:l/huntingtonbeach.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
3:30 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CALL TO ORDER - 3:32 PM
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and William s None
ANNOUNCEMENT OF SUPPLEMENTAL COMMUNICATIONS PERTAINING TO CLOSED SESSION (Received After Agenda Distribution)
Pursuant to the Brown "Open Meetings" Act, City Clerk Lisa Lane Barnes announced supplemental communications received by her office following distribution of the Council Agenda packet which were all uploaded to the City's website and Councilmember iPads: Closed Session Item #10 (26-700) (1 email communication).
PUBLIC COMMENTS PERTAINING TO CLOSED SESSION ITEMS - None Mayor McKean read titl es for Closed Session for Items #1 (26-690), #2 (26-691), #3 (26-692), #4 (26-693) Conference with Labor Negotiators, Employee Organizations: Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association (HBPOA), Police Management Association (PMA), Huntington Beach Firefighters' Association (HBFA) and Ffre Management Association (FMA); and Item #5 (26-694) Conference with Real Property Negotiators re APN Nos. 110-151-10 and 110-151-11, negotiating parties: Gary Brian Turman (not present) for price and terms of payment.
City Manager Travis Hopkins announced that Closed Session Item #1 (26-690) had been pulled, and City Attorney Mike Vigliotta announced that Closed Session Item #9 (26-699) had been pulled.
A motion was made by Burns, with a second by Van Der Mark, to recess to Closed Session.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION - 3:34 PM
CLOSED SESSION
Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
1. 26 690 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Gov. Code section 54957.6.) Agency designated representatives: Travis Hopkins, City Mamiger; also in attendance:
Marissa Sur, Assistant City Manager; Mike Vigliotta, City Attorney and Zack Zithisakthanakul, Chief Financial Officer. Employee Organization: Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association (HBPOA).
2. 26-691 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Gov. Code section 54957.6.) Agency designated representatives: Travis Hopkins, City Manager; also in attendance:
Marissa Sur, Assistant City Manager; Mike Vigliotta, City Attorney and Zack Zithisakthanakul, Chief Financial Officer. Employee Organization: Police Management Association (PMA).
3. 26-692 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Gov. Code section 54957.6.) Agency designated representatives: Travis Hopkins, City Manager; also in attendance:
Marissa Sur, Assistant City Manager; Mike Vigliotta, City Attorney and Zack Zithisakthanakul, Chief Financial Officer. Employee Organization: Huntington Beach Firefighters' Association (HBFA).
4. 26-693 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Gov. Code section 54957.6.) Agency designated representatives: Travis Hopkins, City Manager; also in attendance:
Marissa Sur, Assistant City Manager; Mike Vigliotta, City Attorney and Zack Zithisakthanakul, Chief Financial Officer. Employee Organization: Fire Management Association (FMA).
5. 26-694 CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS (Gov. Code section 54956.8.) Property: APN Nos. 110-151-10 and 110-151-11. Agency Negotiators: Travis Hopkins, City Manager; Marissa Sur, Assistant City Manager; Ashley Wysocki, Director of Community and Library Services; Chris Cole, Community and Library Services Manager; William Krill, Real Estate Project Manager. Negotiating parties : Gary Brian Turman (Not Present). Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment.
6. 26-696 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-LITIGATION (Gov. Code section 54956.9(d)(4).): One (1).
7. 26-697 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION. (Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9). People of the State of California v. City of Huntington Beach, et al.; Case No. 30-2023-01312235-CU-WM-CJC.
8. 26-698 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION. (Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9). Smith (Christopher Scott) v. City of Huntington Beach; 30-2024-01376230-CU-WT-WJC .
9. 26 699 CONFERENCE 'J'.'ITH LEGAL COUNSEL EXISTING LITIGATION . (Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section---54956.9). South\1.iest Voter Registration Education Project, et al. v. City of Huntington Beach ; OCSC Case No. 30 2024 01397379 CU CR NJC.
10. 26-700 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION. (Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9). Grant Parks v. City of Huntington Beach; OCSC Case No.: 30-2024-01435113-CU-WM-CJC.
Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18,2026
11. 26-701 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION. (Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9). O.H. v. City of Huntington Beach, et al. ; OCSC Case No. 30-2026-015748940-CU-PO-CJC.
12. 26-707 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-ANTICIPATED LITIGATION (Gov. Code section 54956.9(d)(2).): Two (2).
6-:00 PM - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
RECONVENED CITY COUNCIL/PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY MEETING - 6:00 PM
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
INVOCATION
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
In permitting a nonsectarian invocation, the City does not intend to proselytize or advance any faith or belief. Neither the City nor the City Council endorses any particular religious belief or form of invocation.
13. 26-666 Huntington Beach Police and Fire Chaplain Roger Wing
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
14. 26-709 John Vasquez, American Legion Post 133
CLOSED SESSION REPORT BY CITY ATTORNEY
City Attorney Mike Vigliotta reported the City Council unanimously authorized the City to file a petition for receivership at 19921 Carmania Lane and unanimously authorized the City to file an appeal of the A.nti SLAPP motion and the denial of the City's cross-complaint in the People of the State of California v. City of Huntington Beach, et al.; Case No. 30-2023-01312235-CU-WM-CJC.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS (2-Minute Time Limit)
Council member Burns reported on the Tee It Up for the Troops fund raising event held at the Huntington Club and thanked Mark and Leslie Mays for an awesome job.
Councilmember Gruel thanked the resident who reached out to educate him about the history of the term "gypsy" which he had recently used from the dais. He also noted the importance of e-Bike safety, especially for children, as school resumes.
Councilmember Williams shared his appreciation for Chaplain Wing's invocation this evening that Councilmembers and community work together with respect and appreciation for each other.
Mayor McKean reported on the US Open of Surfing, relocation of the International Surf Museum, Surfers' Walk of Fame Ceremony, Hall of Fame, 50th Anniversary of the World Surfing League, 50th Anniversary Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
of P T Townend's First World Surfing Championship, and expressed appreciation for the work of Police, Fire, and Marine Safety staff for keeping everyone safe during these successful events.
ADOPTABLE PET OF THE MONTH
Denise Woodside and Volunteer Michael, OC Animal Care, presented two adoptable 4-month-old kittens from the same litter: Wyatt Earp and Buffalo Bill. Details can be found at www.OCPetlnfo .com
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
15. 26-713 Business Highlight Presentation
Mayor McKean acknowledged newly opened businesses in Huntington Beach; announced the new format for State of Surf City, September 10, 2026, at Pier Plaza; Minute with the Mayorvideos were played to recognize Pro Beauty Center at Edinger and Springdale, Luxor Garage Door Service at Gothard and Ellis, and Champagnes Kitchen at 200 Main Street. Support local businesses and keep Surf City thriving.
COMMUNITY EVENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS (2-Minute Time Limit) Limited to one representative, one announcement
Surf City Decides announced a debate for 2026 City Council Candidates at the Huntington Beach Senior Center in Central Park, September 16, 2026, 6:30 - 8:30 PM, sponsored by Protect HB.
City Treasurer Jason Schmitt reported on the very successful three-week Financial Literacy and Workforce Development Program at Goldenwest College. He thanked the organizations that contributed to this program, which had a positive influence on the lives of over 30 residents of Fountain Valley, Westminster, Garden Grove and Huntington Beach.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF SUPPLEMENTAL COMMUNICATIONS (Received After Agenda Distribution) Pursuant to the Brown "Open Meetings" Act, City Clerk Lisa Lane Barnes announced supplemental communications received by her office following distribution of the Council Agenda packet which were all uploaded to the City's website and Council member iPads: City Manager's Report Item #18 (26-715) (1 staff analysis, and 1 email communication); Consent Calendar Item #22 (26-652) (1 email communication); Administrative Items #26 (26-658) (1 Councilmember communication), and #27 (26- 706) (1 email communication and another plaque rendering from Mayor McKean).
PUBLIC COMMENTS - 27 Speakers
The number [hh:mm:ss} following the speakers' comments indicates their approximate starting time in the archived video located at https:llhuntingtonbeach.legistar.com/Calendar.asp x.
Pat Goodman commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association . (00:34:42) Mary Madis requested that the City consider adding pedestrian safety measures at the 4-way intersection of 11th Street, Lake Street, and Memphis Avenue such as a flashing stop sign or crosswalk signal. Councilmember Williams asked Mary to complete a blue card for follow-up. (00:38:30) Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Frank Lo Grasso commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (00:40:22) Reed Marker commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (00:41 :55) Nicholas commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association . (00:44:44) Taylor commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (00:46:25) Bernard Atkins commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association . (00:48:03) James Boulous commented on Administrative Items #26 "(26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (00:51 :21) Dane Sensor commented on how politicians interfere with local small businesses and urged support for Basilica's. (00:54: 18)
Amory Hanson commented on Administrative Items #27 (26-706) regarding approval of the design and language for the America 250 Plaque at Pier Plaza. (00:57:00) Andy Einhorn commented on his perspective related to a public interaction that Councilmember Twining had shared several weeks ago. (00:57:37)
Eric Richmond Massey commented on his need for the City to document in writing that he is a resident.
Mayor McKeon asked him to complete a blue card for follow-up. (01 :00:45) Tim Geddes commented on Administrative Items #27 (26-706) regarding approval of the design and language for the America 250 Plaque at Pier Plaza. (01 :02:31) Unnamed Speaker commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (01 :05:40) Ryan Nguyen commented on City Manager's Report Item #18 (26-715) regarding the Study Session on the proposed improvements to Huntington Beach Sports Complex . (01 :07:50) Roz Price commented on Agenda Item #16 (26-670) regarding adopting Resolution No. 2026-34 authorizing an application for funds an Orange County Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Disabled Grant Program (EMSD), and Administrative Items #27 (26-706) regarding approval of the design and language for the America 250 Plaque at Pier Plaza. (01: 10:55)
Unnamed Speaker commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (01: 14:01) Unnamed Speaker comme nted on the use of Flock Al cameras in Huntington Beach. (01: 17:00) Parker Bosworth commented on the use of Flock Al cameras in Huntington Beach. (01: 19:33) Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Unnamed Speaker commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (01 :20:24) Russell Neal commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association . (01 :23:27) Sean commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Associat ion. (01 :26: 15) Eileen Riley commented on offshore oil drilling and suggested that additional funds might be available for the Police Department. (01 :27:45)
Mia commented on the use of Flock Al cameras in Huntington Beach . (01 :29:43) Bethany Webb commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (01 :30: 19) Unnamed Speaker commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association. (01 :33:21) Kanan Durham commented on Administrative Items #26 (26-658) regarding introduction of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association . (01 :35:09) COUNCIL COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
AB 1234 REPORTING - None
OPENNESS IN NEGOTIATION DISCLOSURES
Mayor Pro Tern Twining, Councilmembers Williams, Gruel and Council Woman Van Der Mark reported speaking to Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association (HBPOA) representatives .
PUBLIC HEARING
16. 26-670 Held Public Hearing and Adopted Resolution No. 2026-34 authorizing an application for funds under the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) for an Orange County Enhanced Mobility for Seniors & Disabled Grant Program (EMSD) SUPPLEMENTAL COMMUNICATION PERTAINING TO PUBLIC HEARING - None (01 :39:08) Director of Community and Library Services Ashley Wysocki presented a PowerPoint communication titled Orange County Enhanced Mobility for Seniors & Disabled Grant Program (EMSD) with slides entitled: Statement of Issue, Financial Impact, Analysis (5), Recommended Action, and Questions? There were no Councilmember questions regarding the presentation.
Mayor McKean opened the Public Hearing.
Public Hearing Speakers - 1
Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Tim Geddes stated his support for this item.
There being no more public speakers, Mayor McKean closed the Public Hearing.
A motion was made by McKean, second Twining, to conduct Public Hearing and Adopt Resolution No. 2026-34, "A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Huntington Beach Authorizing City Staff to apply to the Orange County Transportation Authority for an Orange County Enhanced Mobility for Seniors & Disabled Grant Program to Purchase Accessible Vans to Transport Older Adults and People with Disabilities" for the Surf City Senior's on the Go! Senior Transportation program;" and authorize the appropriation of $43,560 from the Equipment Replacement Fund 325 fund balance to fulfill the 10% grant match requirement.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
OUT OF ROOM:
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
Burns
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
17. 26-714 Held Study Session: Landify
City Manager Travis Hopkins and Director of Community & Library Services Ashley Wysocki introduced Community & Library Services Manager Chris Cole and Landify Representative Jonathan Brayden who presented a PowerPoint communication titled Landify Study Session with slides entitled: Purpose of Study Session, Landify 's Background, Business Model, Landify- What They Do, Project Example, Proposed Area of Focus, Next Steps, and Questions?
Councilmember discussion included clarifying Landify finances their work through tipping fees; configuration of the landfill project; project timeline; remediating contaminated soils; third-party procedures used to select project developers for the finished project; Landify pays the City a percentage of the tipping fees; City chooses whether to use Landify to manage final project development; Landify has no competitors in the US; any required geotechnical fees are paid by Landify; MOU can include only land development allowing the City to select a developer for the final amenities; CEQA fees are covered by Landify; final use amenities will be used to determine any City costs; a proposed MOU at this stage is only the City's approval for Landify to research project, determine feasibility and costs, and to get public input; feasibility study will determine how the contaminated soil must be handled; amount of time to complete the project depends on the volume of soil needed and will be determin ed through the feasibility study; and feasibility study includes traffic studies to determine potential street damage due to increased dump truck traffic.
Mayor McKean and Council Woman Van Der Mark made a motion to direct staff to draft an MOU.
City Attorney Mike Vigliotta advised Council it is not appropriate to vote on a Study Session discussion item. He added that staff understand Council's support for drafting an MOU.
18. 26-715 Held Study Session: Proposed Improvements to Huntington Beach Sports Complex Before the staff presentation, Councilmember Williams asked for Mayor McKeon's approval to move Councilmember Item NEW (26-723) regarding Finance Commissioner Dave Chennau/t's Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Huntington Beach Sports Complex presentation to follow this staff presentation. Mayor McKeon agreed.
City Manager Travis Hopkins introduced Chief Financial Officer Zack Zithisakthanakul who presented a PowerPoint communication titled Sports Complex Follow-up: Finance Commission Recommendation, with slides entitled: Background, Meeting Dates, August 5 Finance Commission Special Meeting, 1.
CEQA First, No Agreements Until Complete, 2. Issue a RF/ to Maximize Value and Resident Benefit, 3.
All Upgrades Must Follow City Procurement Rules, 4. Establish Minimum Base Rent + Revenue Share,
5. Modernize Parking & Field Use Rates, 6. Independent Audit of HBSC Partners' Three Agreements, 6.
Independent Audit of HBSC Partners' Three Agreements, 7. Move Agreements Oversight to Treasury/Legal Engagement, 8. Public Engagement Before Any Facility Changes, and Questions? Finance Commissioner Dave Chennault presented a PowerPoint communication he prepared in his individual capacity. The presentation was not produced or reviewed by City Staff. The presentation was titled Sports Complex History and Financials, with slides entitled History of Sports Complex - Brownfield Rehab, Sports Complex Approved by Voters in 1996- Measure L; 3 Bonds - Total Cost of Bond Payments and interest in Net Present Value - $36 Million to date (should be checked) and will likely end near $40 Million, The total cost to build the Sports Complex paid by the city in Net Present Value - $38 - $40 Million, Ongoing Capital Expenses, Ongoing - Gas Extraction and Monitoring, Basic Description of Landfill Gas Monitoring/Extraction System, Monitoring Extraction and Monitoring Layout (3), Aging System that Will Need Replacement, Financial Highlights of Current Operations, Spreadsheet documenting bond payments and revenue; Sports Complex Usage Trends (graphic), Declining Usage During HBSC Partners Management Roughly only 1/3 of Usage by Local Residents, Trends, How Does Placer Al determine the "Home" of a Visitor of the Sports Complex, HBSC Proposal Update and Recommendations, Update on HBSC Partners Proposal, Sports Complex Recommendations - Strategic Drivers, and Recommendations - Passed 6 - O by Finance Commission .
Councilmember discussion covered the possibility of a couple of Finance Commissioners performing the recommended audit; limitations of Placer Al data collection; discrepancy between HBSC Partners and Placer Al user trends; smaller percentage of organized sports teams play at the Sports Center vs various parks throughout the City; improvements envisioned by HBSC Partners are expected to reduce costs; the need to have Finance, Operators and City staff involved in transparent communications; overview of Chino Hills sports complex agreement which HBSC Partners like; determine if there should be competitive bidding; operating details should be part of the agreement(s); Council appreciation for the work the Finance Commission does; possible reasons for less-than-expected revenue increase after parking fee increase; financial impact when batting cages were closed down; and details related to the current vendor contract.
Discussion continued with a review of the Finance Commission's recommendations as outlined in the City's PowerPoint presentation . City Attorney Michael Vigliotta reminded Councilmembers that this is a Study Session item and no vote should be taken. He noted that staff have listened to the discussion and will return with an item that will be voted on at a future meeting.
Regarding the question of who pays for CEQA costs, Director of Community Development Jennifer Villasenor stated that private development projects pay for their own CEQA documents, usually through a reimbursement agreement with the City since the City is the lead agency for CEQA; on a public project that is a City Council decision.
City Attorney Michael Vigliotta noted that some of the details being discussed are "deal points" which may involve legal requirements .
Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Council discussion included the need to form break-out groups including City Manager, Legal, and Community Development staff so that all the questions can be addressed and notated , ensuring there is no Brown Act violation. At the same time HBSC Partners need to provide a more finite proposal with realistic projections .
City Manager Travis Hopkins noted that from this discussion staff can update the presentation and bring it back for further Councilmember consideration and discussion at a future meeting.
CONSENT CALENDAR (Items 19 - 25)
City Clerk
19. 26-673 Approved and Adopted Minutes
A motion was made by Burns, second Van Der Mark, to approve and adopt the City Council/Public Financing Authority regular meeting minutes of July 21, 2026.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
Community and Library SeNices
20. 26-573 Approved and authorized execution of a License Agreement between the City of Huntington Beach and Saddleback Church for use of space at the Huntington Beach Senior Center in Central Park
A motion was made by Burns, second Van Der Mark, to approve and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the "License Agreement Between the City of Huntington Beach and Saddleback Church for Use of Space at the Huntington Beach Senior Center in Central Park." The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
21. 26-651 Authorized designated City staff to execute the agreement between the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and the Health Plan-Provider Agreement- Intergovernmental Transfer Rate Range Program Agreement between CalOptima Health and the City of Huntington Beach; and approved a payment of $1,017,485 to DHCS for FY 2026/27
A motion was made by Burns, second Van Der Mark, to authorize the designation of the City Manager, Chief Financial Officer, and/or Fire Chief to execute the agreement between the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and the Health Plan-Provider Agreement - Intergovernmental Transfer Rate Range Program Agreement between CalOptima Health and the City of Huntington Beach; and Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
approve a payment of $1,017,485 to the California Department of Health Care Services for the agreement during FY 2025/26.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Police
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
22. 26-652 Approved and Authorized Execution of an Agreement with the Riverside County Sheriff's Office and Partner Law Enforcement Agencies to Participate in the Fiscal Year 2025 Operation Stonegarden (OPSG) Grant
A motion was made by Burns, second Van Der Mark, to approve and authorize Police Chief Eric G. Parra to execute "Agreement for Fiscal Year 2025 Operation Stonegarden (OPSG)." The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
23. 26-65
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
Adopted Resolution No. 2026-33 Authorizing the Acceptance of FY26/27 Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (CTFGP) Funding from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to support Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Enforcement and Officer Training
A motion was made by Burns, second Van Der Mark, to approve and authorize the execution of grant agreement FY26/27 CTFGP Law Enforcement-Huntington Beach Police Department and adopt Resolution No. 2026-33, "A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Huntington Beach Authorizing the Chief of Police to Accept Grant Funds from the State of California Department of California Highway Patrol for DUI Saturation Patrols and Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) Training." The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Public Works
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
24. 26-648 Approved Amended Fiscal Year 2026/27 West Orange County Water Board (WOCWB) Budget by $4,600,000 to Return Unexpended Cathodic Protection Program Funds to Member Agencies' Water Enterprise Funds Based on Ownership Percentage
A motion was made by Burns, second Van Der Mark, to approve budget amendment and return funds to member agency's water enterprise funds.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
25. 26-645
Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
Approved Response Letter to the 2025-2026 Orange County Grand Jury Report, "PFAS and Public Awareness: A Closer Look at Orange County Drinking Water," and Forward to the Presiding Judge
A motion was made by Burns, second Van Der Mark, to approve the City's response letter containing the findings and recommendations in response to the Orange County Grand Jury Report entitled "PFAS and Public Awareness: A Closer Look at Orange County Drinking Water"; and Authorize the Mayor to submit the response letter to the Presiding Judge of the Orange County Superior Court.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKean, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
26. 26-658 CONTINUED Discussion of the Proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association
City Manager Travis Hopkins introduced Assistant City Manager Marissa Sur who presented a PowerPoint communication titled Introduction of Proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association (HBPOA) with slides entitled: Meyers-Milias Brown Act (MMBA), Proposed MOU, Recommended Action, and Questions? Councilmember discussion included Council support for incredible Public Safety staff; Council's fiduciary responsibility to the taxpayers; review of a report on this topic from a Finance Commissioner's individual perspective. The report was not produced or reviewed by City staff. The slides entitled Police and Fire Operation Consume 67% of the FY26-27 General Fund Budget of $327.3 million ($6.29 million per week; Top 50 Paid Employees City of Huntington Beach - 2025 - Link to Data by selecting the underlined HyperLink below; The Top 50 City Employees Average Over $400,000 in Total Annual Compensation; Eliminating 50% of Public Safety Overtime Recovers Two-Thirds of the Projected $15M Deficit; Top Earner Overtime Has Surged 75% Since 2019 While Base Salaries Rose Less Than 20%; Unchecked Compensation Growth Began in 2019 Following Years of Stable, Inflation-Aligned Pay; Structural Management Failure Shifts Overtime from an Occasional Need to a Dependent Wage Pillar; Huntington Beach Police Top Earners Outpace Peer Orange County Cities by 10% to 30%; Fire Department Compensation Significantly Exceeds Equivalently Sized Neighboring Municipalities ; Restoring Economic Solvency Requires Immediate Action on Structural Staffing and Overtime; City of Huntington Beach - Costing Summary; Annual Impact of MOU; Projected Deficit: Baseline with Minimum MOU Adjustment; and Five-Year Forecast: Baseline with Minimum MOU Adjustment .
After the substitute motion was made, Councilmember discussion continued on the negative impact of extensive overtime; the need for a financially sound MOU rather than one based on hope; the importance of separating General Fund Reserves (approximately $1 00M) from Total Fund Reserves (approximately $500M); recommendation to typically have about two months [of expenses] in the General Fund; separate aggregate reserves include Enterprise funds which are bound by State law or Charter vote; one of the City's biggest liabilities is pensions and this proposal just adds to that liability; and the need for more analysis before a Council vote is taken.
Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Assistant City Manager Marissa Sur noted that Municipal Code requires that the MOU be brought back for a Council vote within 30 days of the introduction, or the September 15, 2026, City Council meeting.
Council discussion continued regarding conflating financial issues throughout the City and putting it on the back of this MOU; the $170M projected deficit is based on fully funding the unfilled positions for each budget year; as Police Department positions are filled there will be a decrease in overtime costs; the negotiations for this MOU, which expired June 30, 2026, started in November 2025 legally following how the process has to occur; comparison of the percentage budget cost for police department personnel in surrounding cities; the Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association (HBPOA) was 12 out of 12, in a City agreed survey over the entire county, for base pay, and 9 out of 12 in total compensation; importance of keeping officers and filling open positions; extensive discussion regarding the validity of the report from the Finance Commissioner; the "legacy" contract has improved public safety by reducing crime and homelessness; increase in Police Department applications and a decrease in number of people leaving after the last contract; recognition that the Police Department is focused on reducing overtime by five percent (5%); importance of taking the time to verify accuracy of the numbers from our Finance Commission, Chief Financial Officer, City Treasurer and City Manager and also look for some solutions to increase revenue and consideration of solvency; the need for a chart documenting reality, i.e., not funding every open position every year; $1.5M increase per year for the next three years is not going to result in bankruptcy; clarification with City Attorney Mike Vigliotta regarding the Municipal Code requirements for processing an employment MOU; Civic Openness In Negotiations (COIN) and taking the time for full transparency;
A motion was made by Williams, second Gruel, to receive and consider the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Huntington Beach and the Huntington Beach Police Officers' Association for the period of July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, pursuant to City of Huntington Beach Ordinance No. 4154.
The motion failed by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Gruel, Van Der Mark, and Williams
Kennedy, Twining, McKean, and Burns
A substitute motion was made by Kennedy, second Burns, to ~der the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Huntington Beach and the Huntington Beach Police Gfficers' Association for the pei:i-Od of July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, pursuant to City of Huntington Beach Ordinance No. 4154. direct the Finance Commission to develop a sub-committee to look at the financial impact of this MOU contract on the General Fund and provide options to avoid bankruptcy; and, direct the City Manager, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and City Treasurer to prepare a five - ten year financial analysis of the City's finances and bankruptcy risks in light of the Police MOU and other up coming labor contracts , unfunded pension liabilities, and reserve levels and then prepare a series of financial options available for the City Council to avoid bankruptcy in the five - ten year financial timeline for the September 1, 2026, City Council meeting.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Kennedy, Twining, McKean, and Burns
Gruel, Van Der Mark, and Williams
Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
27. 26-706 CONTINUED Approval of the Design and Language for the America 250 Plaque at Pier Plaza
City Manager Travis Hopkins introduced Community & Library Services Director Ashley Wysocki who provided a PowerPoint communication titled America 250 Plaque at Pier Plaza with slides entitled:
Background, Additional Background, Historic Resources Board Edits, Community & Library Services Commission Edits, Recommendation, and Questions?
One additional iteration was submitted by Mayor McKeon for consideration. He had it created after he reviewed the edits of the Historic Resources Board and Library Services Commission. Director Wysocki explained some of the limitations of the sand blasting technique used for this project.
Discussion included some Councilmembers liking the latest iteration best and removing the Councilmember names and replacing them with Huntington Beach Medal of Honor recipients. Mayor McKean asked that this item be brought back before Council for further discussion.
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION
28. 26-660 Approved for introduction Ordinance No. 4350 amending Huntington Beach Municipal Code Chapter 10, Sections 10.04, 10.50, 10.56, 10.60, 10.64 and 10.68 relating to Vehicles and Traffic and Ordinance No. 4351 Chapter 13.08, Sections
13.08.005 and 13.08.080 relating to Beach Regulations • Monica Candelario, Parking & Camping Operations Supervisor, presented a PowerPoint communication titled Amending HBMC Chapter 10 and Chapter 13 with slides entitled: Background, Financial Impact, Ordinance No. 4350, Ordinance No. 4351, Recommended Actions, and Questions? A motion was made by Burns, second McKean, after the City Clerk reads by title, to approve for introduction Ordinance No. 4350, "An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Huntington Beach Amending Sections 10.04, 10.50, 10.56, 10.60, 10.64, and 10.68 of Title 10 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code relating to Vehicles and Traffic." After the City Clerk reads by title, approve for introduction Ordinance No. 4351, "An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Huntington Beach Amending Sections 13.08.005 and 13.08.080 of Chapter 13.08 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code relating to Beach Regulations."
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Gruel, Kennedy, Twining, McKeon, Burns, Van Der Mark, and Williams None
COUNCIL MEMBER ITEMS
NEW 26-723 Item Submitted by Councilman Williams - Huntington Beach Sports Complex Presentation
This item was moved for discussion to City Manager's Report Item #18, the Study Session regarding proposed improvements to Huntington Beach Sports Complex.
ADJOURNMENT - at 10:09 PM a motion was made by Van Der Mark, with a second by Kennedy, to adjourn to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Huntington Beach City Council/Public Financing Council/PFA Regular Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Authority on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, in the Civic Center Council Chambers, 2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach, California.
INTERNET ACCESS TO CITY COUNCIUPUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA AND
STAFF REPORT MATERIAL IS AVAILABLE PRIOR TO CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS AT http://www. huntingtonbeachca. gov
ATTEST:
City Clerk-Secretary
Ci Clerk and ex-officio Clerk of the City Council
of the City of Huntington Beach and Secretary of
the Public Financing Authority of the City of
Huntington Beach, California
Mayor-Chair