CITY OF IMPERIAL BEACH
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
October 15, 2025, 6: 00 p. m.
Council Chambers
825 Imperial Beach Boulevard
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Present: Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tern Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez
Staff City Manager Foltz, Chief Administrative Officer Cortez- Martinez, City Attorney Lyon, City Clerk Kelly, Environmental & Natural Resources Director Helmer, City Planner/ Management Associate Ayala The City Council also sits as the Imperial Beach Planning Commission, Public Financing Authority, and Imperial Beach Redevelopment Agency Successor Agency.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor McKay called the Regular Meeting to order at 6:00 p. m.
2. ROLL CALL
City Clerk Kelly took roll.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. REIMBURSEMENT DISCLOSURES/ REPORTS ON ASSIGNMENTS AND COMMITTEES Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez
Taste of 1 B
IBAC Over the Line Tournament
Councilmember Fisher
Taste of I B
SANDAG Audit Committee meeting
SANDAG Executive Committee meeting
SANDAG Board of Directors meeting
1 Mayor Pro Tern Seabury
Southwestern College Ribbon Cutting for the Instructional & Discovery Complex and Planetarium
Imperial Beach Historical Society "Town Talk" meeting
BLU Lapis Media' s Service & Sacrifice Military Awards Gala at Sycuan Casino South County Economic Development Council meeting
League of California Cities Annual Conference in Long Beach Mayor McKay
Metro Wastewater Joint Powers Authority meeting
League of California Cities Annual Conference in Long Beach Imperial Beach Fire Department Open House
5. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY STAFF
Chief Administrative Officer Cortez- Martinez announced the following upcoming events:
Trunk or Treat on October 24, 2025
Day of the Dead ( Dia de los Muertos) on November 1, 2025 Tacos with Your Mayor and Sheriff Lieutenant Galve on November 12, 2025.
City Manager Foltz announced two agendas were posted: a Regular City Council Meeting agenda and a Special Meeting agenda. The Special Meeting will be considered at 6: 30 p. m. or shortly thereafter. He requested that the Consent item from the Special Meeting agenda be considered together with the Regular Meeting agenda Consent items, and that the report item from the Special Meeting agenda be addressed at the end of the Regular agenda Reports.
6. PUBLIC COMMENT
Martin Mattes, Past President of the Chamber of Commerce, provided an update on recent Chamber activities and announced upcoming events.
Dante Pamintuan expressed gratitude to the Mayor and City Council for their service and offered a prayer for the City' s leadership. He also identified his three priorities for the community: additional Sheriff' s motorcycle for public safety, completion of the Sports Park and gym, including the addition of pickleball courts, and recognition of the Marine Corps Birthday on November 10, marking the 250th Anniversary. He also congratulated Mariko Nakawatase on her upcoming appointment as the District 3 Councilmember.
Leon Benham spoke about the Memorandum of Understanding ( MOU) currently under review by the International Boundary and Water Commission and the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. He emphasized that the MOU is non- binding but significant for public awareness and input. He expressed concern about a projected increase in sewage discharge off Imperial Beach. He referenced the Arcadis Plan which identified the need to upgrade pumps originally designed in the 1980s for a smaller population. He urged close review of the related Minute Orders and stressed the importance of preventing additional sewage impacts to Imperial Beach waters.
Truth criticized Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez' s engagement, voting record, and fundraising claims. She addressed the impact of trade agreements on the local sewage issues, noting that 2 NAFTA encouraged businesses to move to Mexico, increasing development in Tijuana. She noted that the USMCA has largely maintained the status quo, with high imports and limited accountability. She urged residents to submit comments on the USMCA renegotiation before November 3, mentioning 75 existing comments have already been submitted, including support for enforcing the 1944 Water Treaty. She spoke about holding Mexico accountable for sewage affecting Imperial Beach, proposing Mexico' s toll revenue be withheld, enforcing tariffs and closing commercial crossings when beaches are closed. She also called for sufficient sewage treatment plants. She also urged Mayor McKay and Councilmember Fisher to attend the U. S.
Trade Representative meeting on November 17.
7. OATH OF OFFICE
7. a RESOLUTION NO. 2025- 053 APPOINTING MARIKO NAKAWATASE TO FILL THE VACANCY IN THE CITY COUNCIL POSITION, DISTRICT 3 AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE OATH OF OFFICE. ( 0410- 40)
City Clerk Kelly gave a report on the item.
Public comments:
Truth praised Councilmember Fisher for his transparency and dedication, and highlighted Ms. Nakawatase' s humility, consistency, and commitment to public service.
She noted Ms. Nakawatase' s potential to assist with county grants and assist other councilmembers with their workloads, and recognized the historic presence of two women of Japanese descent on the City Council.
Correspondence from Sandra Brillhart was submitted as Last Minute Agenda Information.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Seabury
Seconded by Councilmember Fisher
To approve Resolution No. 2025- 053 and allow the City Clerk to present a Certificate of Appointment and administer the Oath of Office to Mariko Nakawatase.
AYES ( 4): Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tem Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez
Motion Carried ( 4 to 0)
Shirley Nakawatase, along with Leon Benham by her side, administered the Ceremonial Oath of Office to Mariko Nakawatase.
Councilmember Nakawatase provided a statement of acceptance.
Mayor McKay called a recess at 6: 43 p. m. He called the meeting back to order at 6: 53 p. m. and asked City Clerk Kelly to take roll.
3 Present: Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tern Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez, Councilmember Nakawatase
8. PRESENTATIONS
8. a PROCLAMATION HONORING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH. ( 0410- 30) Motion by Councilmember Fisher
Seconded by Councilmember Nakawatase
That the City Council approve the Proclamation.
AYES ( 5): Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tem Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez, and Councilmember Nakawatase Motion Carried ( 5 to 0)
Councilmember Nakawatase read the proclamation.
No public comments.
City Council discussion:
Councilmember Fisher expressed appreciation for the Breast Cancer Awareness Month proclamation, shared personal connections to the issue, and emphasized the importance of regular checkups for both women and men.
Mayor McKay offered pink ribbons to those who want to participate in honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and he presented the proclamation to representatives from the Helen Knoll Foundation.
8. b JOB CORPS UPDATE PRESENTATION. ( 0150- 40)
Reyna Delgadillo, Director for the Job Corps Center, provided an update on the Job Corps program, noting that it had briefly faced a shutdown in May due to funding issues but is now fully operational and accepting new students.
Jenna Began, Outreach and Admissions Director for the Job Corps Center, discussed the student enrollment process.
No public comments.
City Council discussion:
Councilmember Leyba-Gonzalez shared his experience at a recent career fair, noting positive interactions with Job Corps representatives.
Mayor Pro Tern Seabury expressed support for the Job Corps program, highlighting its financial and educational benefits for students, the positive and safe environment, and opportunities for women. She inquired about the status of former students, staff 4 retention, availability of trades training, and accessibility for students with special needs.
She expressed excitement for the program' s continued success.
8. c PRESENTATION AND FINANCIAL REPORT BY HESS FEST. ( 1040- 10) Mike Hess gave a PowerPoint presentation on the item. He reported that local contributions are given to: Shepherd Dog Rescue, IB Little League and Girls' Softball Teams, VFW, Kiwanis, and Sun & Sea Festival. He also stated that significant funds are raised for larger causes: Pediatric Cancer ( Oncology and Kids — Camp Reach for the Sky) and Veteran Suicide Prevention. He then provided details on the 2024 Hess Fest including finances, community participation, media impact, attendance, and future goals.
Public Comments:
Truth commended Mike Hess for a thorough report and praised Hess Fest as one of Imperial Beach' s premier community events, noting its strong sponsorships, charitable contributions, and regional draw. She also recognized partnerships with local businesses and expressed appreciation for the event' s positive impact on the community.
City Council discussion:
Mayor McKay thanked Mike Hess for the comprehensive report, shared positive feedback about the success of Hess Fest, and expressed appreciation for the event' s contributions to the community and the two charitable organizations.
Councilmember Nakawatase thanked Mike Hess for his partnership with the community, commended the positive culture of his team, and expressed appreciation for the welcoming atmosphere and ongoing support of Imperial Beach.
Councilmember Fisher thanked Mike Hess for the detailed report and commended Hess Fest for its strong community partnership and meaningful impact. He noted the event' s impressive sponsorship, support for veterans, and positive influence on residents, emphasizing appreciation for the effort and dedication of the Mike Hess Brewing team.
Mayor Pro Tem Seabury commended Mike Hess for his business acumen and recommended incorporating the bat ray artwork into event merchandise.
9. CONSENT CALENDAR
Public comments:
Truth noted a correction in the August 20 meeting minutes ( Item No. 9. a), and she highlighted various expenditures in the Warrant Register ( Item No. 9. b).
Correspondence from Sandra Brillhart regarding Item No. 9. a was submitted as Last Minute Agenda Information.
Councilmember Nakawatase announced that she will abstain from voting on Item 9. a because she was not a member of the City Council on August 20, 2025. 5 Motion by Councilmember Fisher
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Seabury
To approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 9. b through 9. c.
AYES ( 5): Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tern Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez, and Councilmember Nakawatase
Motion Carried ( 5 to 0)
Motion by Councilmember Fisher
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Seabury
To approve Consent Calendar Item No. 9. a.
AYES ( 4): Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tern Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez
ABSTAIN ( 1): Councilmember Nakawatase
Motion Carried ( 4 to 0)
9. a APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.
City Council approved the Regular Meeting Minutes of August 20, 2025.
9. b RATIFICATION OF WARRANT REGISTER FOR THE PERIOD FROM SEPTEMBER 19, 2025 TO OCTOBER 2, 2025. ( 0300- 25)
City Council ratified and filed the Warrant Register Report.
9. c RECEIVE TREASURER' S REPORT FOR AUGUST 2025. ( 0300-90) City Council received and filed the August 2025 Treasurer' s Report.
10. ORDINANCES/ INTRODUCTION & FIRST READING
None.
11. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
12. REPORTS
12. a APPROVAL OF SPECIAL EVENT APPLICATION FOR THE MILITARY
APPRECIATION DAY EVENT ON VETERANS DAY AND RESERVATION OF DUNES PARK ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2025. ( 1040- 10)
CAO Cortez- Martinez gave a PowerPoint presentation on the item.
Councilmember Nakawatase left Council Chambers at 7: 41 p. m. and returned at 7: 44 p. m.
6 Public Comments:
Truth expressed support for a fee waiver, noting that the event may have incurred losses last year and that costs are expected to rise. She inquired about the event' s food vendor and entertainment, and expressed appreciation for the current sponsors, including the Chamber of Commerce.
Mike Carrera, representing the VFW, stated the entertainment will be provided by the Geoff Corey 5 Band and the food will be prepared by El Tapatio. He responded to questions from the City Council.
City Council discussion:
Councilmember Fisher commented that events like this provide valuable opportunities for community members, particularly veterans, to gather and connect, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and support from local military organizations.
Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez expressed support for the event and for approving the fee waiver request.
Councilmember Nakawatase expressed support for recognizing outstanding volunteers and veterans during the event and suggested utilizing the City's certificates of recognition to honor their contributions.
Motion by Councilmember Leyba-Gonzalez
Seconded by Mayor McKay
To approve the special event application, including a request to serve alcohol and activate Dunes Park as a special event venue for the 2025 Military Appreciation Veterans Day on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, and approve the associated fee waiver request.
AYES ( 5): Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tem Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez, and Councilmember Nakawatase
Motion Carried ( 5 to 0)
12. b 13TH STREET CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT PLAN PROJECT UPDATE ( 0720- 10) City Planner/ Management Associate Ayala gave a PowerPoint presentation on the item outlining the project' s history, purpose and goals, and schedule.
Diego Velasco, Principal of City Thinkers, continued with the PowerPoint presentation.
He provided an update on the 13th Street Corridor Project, including outreach, survey results, analyses of land use, mobility, and economic opportunities, and potential development and streetscape improvements, with upcoming public and stakeholder engagement events.
7 Public Comments:
Truth expressed concerns that the 13th Street Corridor Project appeared to replicate plans from other cities, questioned the accuracy of certain data and analyses, and raised issues with proposed traffic and pedestrian safety measures. She noted support for the pop- up outreach approach, emphasizing the importance of engaging with people where they are.
Correspondence from Sandra Brillhart was submitted as Last Minute Agenda Information.
City Council discussion:
Councilmember Nakawatase thanked City staff for their work and noted that projects such as 9th and 13th Streets are shaped by local, state, and federal requirements, including complete street standards, housing mandates, and traffic safety regulations.
She emphasized the need for transparent communication to help the community understand design decisions, expressed support for a homeownership component, and suggested workshops with the Realtors Association, and to hold workshops multiple times to reach a broad audience. She commended the outreach efforts and wished staff success with continued engagement.
Councilmember Fisher expressed concerns about the 13th Street Project, noting that similar plans often become long- term exercises rather than actionable projects. He emphasized the need for clearer communication to help the public understand potential impacts. While acknowledging staff efforts, he cautioned about feasibility, community context, and property owner involvement. He also highlighted the significance of the Central School property and urged coordination with the school district. Councilmember Fisher expressed skepticism about high- density housing along the 13th Street corridor.
Mayor Pro Tem Seabury expressed concern that 68 survey responses are insufficient to represent the full area. She recommended mailing notices to every household and business, counting cars for parking impacts, and ensuring any planning aligns with the City' s mission statement. She emphasized preserving quality of life for current and future residents.
Mayor McKay agreed that 68 survey responses are insufficient, highlighting that each district has roughly 6, 500 residents, so the current number of responses may not fully represent the community' s perspective. He recommended expanding outreach through door- to- door visits, door hangers, QR codes, or other methods to gather more meaningful input, especially given the significance of potential housing and business developments on 13th Street. He thanked staff for their time and effort but emphasized the need for much more comprehensive data.
Councilmember Leyba-Gonzalez expressed appreciation for the work on the project. He was particularly interested in safety improvements such as lighting. He emphasized the need for additional community outreach.
8 Councilmember Nakawatase suggested providing paper versions of surveys in addition to QR codes to ensure participation from residents who may not use smartphones or digital tools.
12. c UPDATE ON THE BAYSHORE BIKEWAY RESILIENCY PROJECT— CREATION OF A COASTAL RESILIENCE CORRIDOR IN IMPERIAL BEACH. ( 0680- 20) Councilmember Fisher left Council Chambers at 8: 38 p. m. and returned at 8:40 p. m.
Mayor Pro Tem Seabury recused herself from discussing the item due to the location of her residence and left Council Chambers at 8: 39 p. m.
Environmental and Natural Resources Director Helmer, Dennis Larson, Principal of Nexus Planning and Research, and JT Barr, Landscape Architect and Partner with Schmidt Design Group gave a PowerPoint presentation on the item. The topics covered were background, project design features, and the proposed schedule.
Public comments:
Truth supported the project, praising the amenities, safety measures, and planning, while noting minor concerns about the concession stand, amphitheater, rail tracks, bicycle safety, and lighting. She expressed support for the project and commended the planning effort.
Correspondence from Sandra Brillhart and Eric Syverson were submitted as Last Minute Agenda Information.
City Council discussion:
Councilmember Leyba-Gonzalez recalled his early involvement with the Bayshore Bikeway project and emphasized the importance of improving safety for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists. He expressed excitement about the ongoing improvements, noting the project will extend beyond his time with the council.
Councilmember Nakawatase suggested incorporating an Imperial Beach- style photo/ artistic feature to attract visitors. She spoke in support of interactive pathways but noted potential maintenance challenges and recommended exploring a shared maintenance plan with the Port of San Diego. She suggested reevaluating observation decks on the bridge due to potential safety and accessibility concerns.
Councilmember Fisher asked about the walking path' s northern extent as well as bike path access during construction. He emphasized the need to consider parking for the new park and expressed concern with a joint- use agreement with the school district. He suggested a pump track for kids to encourage exercise.
Mayor McKay requested clarification on whether the project will be implemented in phases and the associated timeline.
Councilmember Nakawatase suggested consideration of Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations ( MEHKO).
9 Mayor Pro Tern Seabury returned to Council Chambers 9: 44 p. m.
Mayor McKay announced that City Council needs to vote on whether to continue the meeting past 10: 00 p. m.
Motion by Councilmember Fisher
Seconded by Councilmember Nakawatase
To extend the meeting past 10: 00 p. m.
AYES ( 5): Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tem Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez, and Councilmember Nakawatase
Motion Carried ( 5 to 0)
Mayor McKay called a recess at 9: 46 p. m. and called the meeting back to order at 9: 50 p. m. with all Councilmembers present.
12. d CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION NO. 2025- 052 APPROVING VARIOUS PERSONNEL CHANGES & AMENDING THE CITY' S SALARY SCHEDULE. ( 0520- 75) CAO Cortez- Martinez gave a PowerPoint presentation on the item.
No public comments.
Mayor McKay announced pursuant to Government Code Section 54953( c)( 3), this agenda item includes a recommendation for the City Council to approve increases in compensation and benefits for Appointive Management Personnel of the City.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Seabury
Seconded by Councilmember Fisher
To adopt Resolution No. 2025- 052, which would:
1. Amend the Fiscal Year 2025- 2027 Salary Schedule; and
2. Approve various personnel changes.
AYES ( 5): Mayor McKay, Mayor Pro Tern Seabury, Councilmember Fisher, Councilmember Leyba- Gonzalez, and Councilmember Nakawatase
Motion Carried ( 5 to 0)
13. I. B. REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY SUCCESSOR AGENCY REPORTS None.
14. ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR ( IF ANY)
None.
15. CITY COUNCIL FUTURE AGENDA REQUESTS
None.
10 16. ADJOURN REGULAR MEETING
Mayor McKay adjourned the Regular Meeting at 10: 24 p. m. c line M. Kelly, MMC Mitchell D. McKay
ity Jerk Mayo
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