Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
MINUTES
LAGUNA BEACH CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
October 28, 2025
A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Laguna Beach was called to order at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in the City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California, Mayor Rounaghi presiding.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: Jones, Kempf, Whalen, Orgill, Rounaghi PARTICIPATING REMOTELY: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Councilmember Sue Kempf led the Pledge of Allegiance.
CLOSED SESSION
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1. Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
a. Property: APN: 644-151-21
Agency Negotiator: Dave Kiff, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: Peter Afrasiabi
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
b. Property: APN: 641-231-11
Agency Negotiator: Dave Kiff, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: Emma Thier
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
c. Property: APN: 641-171-04
Agency Negotiator: Dave Kiff, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: William Bortz
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
d. Property: APN: 644-417-03
Agency Negotiator: Dave Kiff, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: The Frederick Clairmont Revoc Trust Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
e. Property: Assessor Parcel Number ("APN") 496-11-27 Lots 41, 42, and portion of 40 of Tract Map No. 759
Agency Negotiator: Dave Kiff, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: David Perry, President of Board, Festival of Arts Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
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Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
f. Property: 30622 Coast Highway
Agency Negotiator: Dave Kiff, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: Kenneth J. Cummins Trust
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
Conference with Labor Negotiators
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency Designated Representatives: Dave Kiff, City Manager; Aggie Nesh, Human Resources Director
Employee Organization: Police Employee Association
CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENTS)
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City Attorney Megan Garibaldi reported that all Councilmembers were present and there was no public comment prior to the City Council convening into the Closed Session, and there was no reportable action.
ADDITIONS and DELETIONS - None.
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PRESENTATIONS
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PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING ARTIST SUNDAY
Adopted the Proclamation recognizing the first Sunday after Thanksgiving as Artist Sunday.
PUBLIC COMMENTS - NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
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Greg Viviani suggested that the City repair the Aliso Beach parking lot on the beach side, while determining the full scope of work for the longer-term project.
MJ Abraham and Michele Monda reiterated their concerns about the Fire Department personnel issue that has been publicized, in addition to news that the Human Resources Director is leaving.
James Owen, 1-800-BoardUp, spoke about National First Responders Day.
Karyn Philippsen, Visit Laguna Beach, introduced their new President/CEO, Joanna Bear.
Claudia Redfern praised Parks Gardener Anthony Condon.
Anne Krizman noted that another retail store on the Forest Avenue promenade, Shoe Cellar, is leaving.
Ed Bayuk provided suggestions related to a lawsuit against the City about lots that had been identified as buildable then changed to non-buildable.
Nick Aronoff expressed concerns related to plans to install a pump track. -2-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
MATTERS FROM THE MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND CITY MANAGER ж***************************************************************************** City Manager Dave Kiff announced two upcoming town halls; one on Thursday, October 30, that is a virtual version of the in-person town hall held last month on the Laguna Canyon Protect & Connect project, and an in-person town hall a week from tonight at 4:00 p.m., regarding proposed improvements along Ocean Avenue and Beach Street. Kiff also advised that personnel issues cannot be disclosed, but stated that he asked for Aggie Nesh to stay and respects her decision to leave. Kiff also thanked Public Works for completing the boardwalk repairs.
City Attorney Megan Garibaldi noted that the end of the legislative session resulted in numerous housing-related bills, as expected. She also thanked Aggie Nesh for her service to the City.
Councilmember Hallie Jones reported on various meetings with members of the public and various local events she attended. She also thanked Aggie Nesh for her service.
Councilmember Sue Kempf reported on the meeting with the Insurance Commissioner's Office, and noted the three local Firewise Communities that have been recognized: Emerald Bay, the Terraces, and the latest one in Arch Beach Heights with over 500 homes. She also reported on the First Responders luncheon, and she also thanked Aggie Nesh for her service.
Councilmember Bob Whalen announced Laguna Art Museum's upcoming annual Art in Nature, reported on last week's Housing and Human Services committee meeting, and reported discussions about finding a better location for the Laguna Food Pantry, considering the growing number of people served every day. He also thanked Aggie Nesh for her service to the City.
Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill also thanked Aggie Nesh, and he reported on various meetings with various local groups and members of the public and various local events he attended, including the First Responders luncheon. Mayor Pro Tem Orgill also reported on the interviews he and Councilmember Whalen conducted for the Community Land Trust Founding Board.
Mayor Alex Rounaghi echoed the comments made by the others regarding departing Human Resources Director Aggie Nesh. Mayor Rounaghi also reported on Elizabeth Pearson's memorial service, and he noted the upcoming Coast Film Festival and the Jack Johnson concert.
CONSENT CALENDAR
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Moved by Mayor Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Councilmember Bob Whalen, and carried unanimously 5/0 to approve items 1 - 13 and 17 - 21. Mayor Alex Rounaghi and Councilmember Hallie Jones recused themselves from item #17; Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill recused himself from item #18.
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting for the City Council of October 14, 2025. -3-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
APPROVAL OF GENERAL WARRANTS AND PAYROLL DISTRIBUTIONS
Date Description Reference Nos. Amount
Payroll-Related Payments
10/03/25 Payroll Wires FY 2026 #7 $ 1,844,480.59
10/03/25 Payroll Checks to Employees 1216-1227 5,735.26 Total Payroll-Related Payments S 1,850,215.85
Payments to Vendors:
09/27/25-10/10/25 Check Payments to Vendors 23008860-23009088 $ 1,901,622.03 TOTAL PAYMENTS S 3,751,837.88
Approved the general warrants and payroll disbursements.
CLAIMS AGAINST THE CITY
(1) Rejected Claim #25-09 filed by Kendra Lopez; and
(2) Rejected Claim #25-44 filed by Jeronim Andronesi.
ADOPT A RESOLUTION INCREASING THE NUMBER OF INVESTMENT
ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS FROM THREE TO FIVE
(a) Adopted Resolution #25.081 titled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, TO RESCIND AND REPLACE RESOLUTION NO. 25.035, INCREASING THE NUMBER OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS FROM THREE TO FIVE"; and
(b) Determined that the proposed resolution is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 2.30 OF THE LAGUNA
BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING THE CITY'S PURCHASING SYSTEM (a) Adopted Ordinance #1723 titled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2.30 OF
THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING THE CITY OF LAGUNA
BEACH PURCHASING SYSTEM AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS NOT A PROJECT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT"; (b) Find that the recommended action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378.
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Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
AMENDMENT TO SERVICE PROVIDER AGREEMENT FOR LANDSCAPE
MAINTENANCE SERVICES
(1) Authorized the City Manager to execute an amendment to Agreement No. 20-120 with Parkwood Landscape Maintenance, Inc., to extend the term of the agreement through June 30, 2026, and to add an additional $138,330 for services performed through June 30, 2026; and
(2) Determined that the action consists of organizational or administrative activities of the City that will not result in a direct or indirect physical change in the environment and therefore does not constitute a "project" within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act. (Public Resources Code Section 21065; 14 CCR Section 15378(b)(5)).
8. AWARD OF CONTRACT TO PRECISION CONCRETE CUTTING FOR CITYWIDE
SIDEWALK SLICING
(1) Awarded and authorized the City Manager to execute contract #25-116 with Southern California Precision Concrete, Inc., dba Precision Concrete Cutting, in the amount of $200,000, for sidewalk trip hazard removal, assessment and maintenance services; and (2) Found that the award of contract is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under Section 15301.
9. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH THE LAGUNA BEACH COUNTY
WATER DISTRICT FOR SUMMIT DRIVE PAVING
(1) Approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Laguna Beach and Laguna Beach County Water District to perform roadway improvements on Summit Drive between La Mirada Street and Katella Street (agreement #25-117); and (2) Determined that this action is not a project under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, and is exempt under Section 15061(b)(3), as there is no possibility it may have a significant effect on the environment.
10. ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF PROJECTS TO THE
FEDERAL TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (FTIP) TITLED, A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH WHICH CERTIFIES THAT
LAGUNA BEACH HAS THE RESOURCES TO FUND THE PROJECTS IN THE FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR 2026/27 - 2031/32 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM AND AFFIRMS ITS COMMITMENT TO IMPLEMENT ALL PROJECTS IN
THE PROGRAM
(1) Adopted Resolution #25.082 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, WHICH CERTIFIES THAT THE
CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH HAS THE RESOURCES TO FUND THE PROJECTS IN -5-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
THE FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR 2026/27 - 2031/32 TRANSPORTATION
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM AND AFFIRMS ITS COMMITMENT TO
IMPLEMENT ALL PROJECTS IN THE PROGRAM"; and
(2) Found that the recommended action is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3), as it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable physical change to the environment.
11. AWARD OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE DEMOLITION OF THE DENTAL BUILDING AT 31796 COAST HIGHWAY
(a) Awarded and authorized the City Manager to execute contract #25-118 with Precision Environmental, Inc. in the amount of $110,000, for demolition of the Dental Building at 31796 Coast Highway;
(b) Authorized the City Manager to approve project-related expenses and contract change orders for unforeseen circumstances in an amount not to exceed $11,000; and (c) Found that the project has been reviewed under the California Environmental Quality Act, and that the City Council adopted the Final Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (SCH No. 2022090383) for the project on November 15, 2022.
12. MARINE SAFETY SEASONAL AND JUNIOR LIFEGUARD UNIFORM PURCHASE (a) Authorized the City Manager to purchase Marine Safety uniforms for a total of 750 lifeguards from Florence Marine X, LLC (agreement #25-119) for a not to exceed amount of $119,000; and
(b) Found that the recommended action is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act under Public Resources Code Section 21065.
13. UPDATE TO THE CAPITAL ASSET POLICY AND PROCEDURES
Approved the proposed modifications to the City's Capital Asset Policy to incorporate recent changes from the Office of Management and Budget's Uniform Guidance for the dollar threshold of classifying capital assets.
14. CONDITIONAL WAIVER OF CITY FEES FOR THREE IN-LIEU PARKING CERTIFICATES AT 224/226 OCEAN AVENUE
This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by a member of the public, John Thomas.
Public Testimony: John Thomas, Nick Aronoff, Anne Krizman, and Greg Viviani explained why they did not support waiving the fees and they urged staff to come up with a better solution.
Kent Russell, manager of 224/226 Ocean Avenue, clarified the request, to address the concerns raised by the public.
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Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
Moved by Councilmember Bob Whalen, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Grant a conditional waiver of fees in the amount of $69,000 for three in-lieu parking certificates for the property located at 224 and 226 Ocean Avenue in consideration of the public benefit of increasing business development, employment opportunities, and the City's tax base, on the condition that the property owner obtain an effective coastal development permit for the three parking certificates for such property; and (b) Find that the action, as described in the Environmental Analysis section of this staff report, is covered by the commonsense exemption under 14 CCR Section 15061(b)(3) and the existing facilities exemption under 14 CCR Section 15301.
15. KXFM OAK STREET HALLOWEEN EVENT - WAIVER OF CITY RESOURCE FEES:
CEQA DETERMINATION
This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by a member of the public, Ed Steinfeld, Voice of Laguna radio station.
Public Testimony: Ed Steinfeld, Voice of Laguna radio station, described his reasons for not supporting the waiver of city fees.
Lex Simonton, Director of Operations for KXFM, urged the Councilmembers to support the agenda item.
City Manager Dave Kiff stated that the fee waiving process required more transparency and staff would be reviewing it at next year's budget.
Moved by Councilmember Hallie Jones, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill, and carried 4/1 (Councilmember Kempf opposed) to:
(1) Confirm/authorize the waiver of the application fee ($817) and city costs ($1,626) for this event; and
(2) Find that the action of a fee waiver is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to State CEQA guidelines section 15340(E)).
16. VISIT LAGUNA BEACH SERVICES AGREEMENT
This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by a member of the public, Greg Viviani.
Public Testimony: Greg Viviani, Brandon, and Nick Aronoff commented on the proposed service agreement.
Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill responded to the public's comments and staff clarified the service agreement.
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Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
Moved by Councilmember Sue Kempf, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement for Services (#25- 120) between the City of Laguna Beach and Visit Laguna Beach, in accordance with the Property and Business Improvements District Law of 1994; and (b) Find that the action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378.
17. APPROVAL OF BOND PURCHASE METHOD FOR UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2021-1 (WEST STREET)
(a) Approved the use of a public bond issuance as the financing method for Underground Utility Assessment District 2021-1 (West Street), based on the October 13, 2025, recommendation of the Financing Analysis Working Group; and (b) Determined that the recommended action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15378(b)(4) of the CEQA Guidelines.
18. ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 3.10 TO TITLE 3 (FINANCE)
OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
COLLECTION OPTIONS FOR UNPAID TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX IN THE CITY
Adopted by title only Ordinance #1722 titled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER
3.10 TO TITLE 3 (FINANCE) OF THE CITY OF LAGAUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATING TO COLLECTION OPTIONS FOR UNPAID TRANSIENT
OCCUPANCY TAX IN THE CITY AND FINDING THE SAME EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT".
19. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE UPDATING THE CITY'S CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTION REGULATIONS)
(a) Introduced and conducted the first reading, proceeded by title only, and waived further reading in full of an Ordinance titled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 1.14.030 (CONTRIBUTION LIMITATIONS) OF TITLE 1 (GENERAL PROVISIONS) OF THE
LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE TO UPDATE THE CITY'S CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTION REGULATIONS AND DETERMINE THE ORDINANCE IS NOT
A PROJECT FOR PURPOSES OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT"; and
(b) Determined that the proposed ordinance is not a "project' for purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act or, in the alternative, determine the proposed ordinance is exempt from the CEQA pursuant to section 15061(b)(5).
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Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
19. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE UPDATING THE CITY'S CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTION REGULATIONS)
(a) Introduced and conducted the first reading, proceeded by title only, and waived further reading in full of an Ordinance titled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 1.14.030 (CONTRIBUTION LIMITATIONS) OF TITLE 1 (GENERAL PROVISIONS) OF THE
LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE TO UPDATE THE CITY'S CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTION REGULATIONS AND DETERMINE THE ORDINANCE IS NOT
A PROJECT FOR PURPOSES OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT"; and
(b) Determined that the proposed ordinance is not a "project' for purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act or, in the alternative, determine the proposed ordinance is exempt from the CEQA pursuant to section 15061(b)(5).
20. APPROVAL OF A SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAGUNA
BEACH AND THE LAGUNA BEACH POLICE EMPLOYEES' ASSOCIATION
REGARDING OVERTIME INCENTIVE PAY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHERS (a) Adopted Resolution #25.083 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A SIDE LETTER
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH AND THE LAGUNA
BEACH POLICE EMPLOYEES' ASSOCIATION REGARDING OVERTIME
INCENTIVE PAY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHERS"; and
(b) Authorized the City Manager to sign the Side Letter of Agreement (#25- 121) between the City of Laguna Beach and the Laguna Beach Police Employees' Association.
21. FORMATION OF AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AD HOC COMMITTEE (KEMPF) (a) Formed an Economic Development Ad Hoc Committee comprised of Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill and Councilmember Sue Kempf, supported by City staff, to focus on advancing the City's economic development initiatives; and (b) Directed staff to return to the City Council at its November 10, 2026, meeting to review the committee's progress and determine whether to continue or sunset the Ad Hoc Committee.
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Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
REGULAR BUSINESS
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22. DISCUSSION OF PUBLIC TREE MAINTENANCE PRACTICES
Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions.
Public Testimony: Terence Schecter, John Travino, Kerry Travino, Larry Zeeman, Ann Christoph, Greg Viviani, Ruben Flores, Nick Aronoff, and Edward Beck provided their concerns with the City's public tree maintenance practices.
Councilmember Comments: Councilmembers and staff discussed the City's approach to public trees, public tree maintenance practices, and provided further direction to staff regarding next steps or potential policy considerations, including directing staff to investigate cost estimates of trimming annually rather than every two years, with more active crown thinning and lifting, to help restore some views, confirm the health of the eucalyptus trees and the replacement requirements for the Montage property, consider a Citywide proactive tree replacement plan, and review policies regarding view equity and public trees.
23. DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN PHASE II AMENDMENTS
Presentation: Staff gave a presentation regarding the Downtown Specific Plan Phase II amendments.
Public Testimony: Paul Zaffin, Ruben Flores, Ann Christoph, Greg Viviani, Whitney Arinoff, Penelope Milne, Nick Aronoff, and Anne Krizman weighed in on the agenda item.
Staff responded to the public's comments and clarified the importance of the proposed amendments in response to the state mandates.
The City Council reviewed the proposed Downtown Specific Plan Phase II amendments and provided direction, confirming that staff should proceed with the study as presented, for maximum flexibility.
24. CITY CONTRIBUTION, RESOLUTION OF INTENTION AND RESOLUTION
PRELIMINARILY APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR PROPOSED UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2021-3 (FAIRVIEW/LA BREA Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions.
Public Testimony: Carrie Reynolds, Loretta Lewis, and Mark Gold commented on the item. -10-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
Moved by Mayor Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Councilmember Bob Whalen, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Adopt Resolution #25.084 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING ITS INTENTION
TO ORDER THE CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS AND TO FORM UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2021-3 (FAIRVIEW/LA BREA) AND FINDING THE SAME EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AT";
(b) Adopt Resolution #25.085 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINARILY ADOPTING,
CONFIRMING, AND APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT AND
APPOINTING THE TIME AND PLACE FOR HEARING PROTESTS TO
IMPROVEMENTS IN PROPOSED UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2021-3 (FAIRVIEW/LA BREA) AND FINDING THE SAME EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT";
(c) Appoint the January 13, 2026, City Council Meeting for a public hearing regarding proposed Underground Utility Assessment District 2021-3; (d) Acknowledge the intent to contribute $474,580 for the General Benefit cost, if the district is approved, and prior to bonds being sold;
(e) Approve the request from the Fairview/La Brea proponents for the additional City Contribution toward a public safety benefit of undergrounding the neighborhood located near open space;
(f) Direct staff to return with a funding strategy for the additional contribution above the General Benefit; and
(g) Determine that the action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA guidelines sections 15301(b), 15302(c) & (d), and 15303(d); and further that this action implements the December 4, 2024 Planning Commission action, wherein the City previously conducted environmental review of the proposed undergrounding project and determined that the project was exempt and there are no changes to the project, no changed circumstances, and no new information that could not previously have been known, that would trigger the need for subsequent CEQA review.
25. UPDATE ON AMENDMENTS TO GENERAL PLAN, INCLUDING THE OPEN SPACE
AND CONSERVATION ELEMENT (OSCE), AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT'S ADVANCED PLANNING DIVISION; DIRECTION ON FIRST
AMENDMENT TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR BIOLOGICAL
SURVEYING SERVICES FOR THE OSCE UPDATE
Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions regarding amendments to the General Plan.
Public Testimony: Ann Christoph and Penelope Milne provides their input on the item. -11-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
Councilmember Comments: Mayor Alex Rounaghi stated that it was best practices for cities to update their General Plan every decade and he appreciated staff being proactive.
Moved by Councilmember Hallie Jones, seconded by Mayor Alex Rounaghi, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Receive an update on the General Plan and a possible 2026-28 Update process for the General Plan, including the Open Space and Conservation Element Update, the Housing Element update process, and an Advanced Planning Division of the Community Development Department;
(b) Authorize staff to begin community discussions and provide community awareness about a possible General Plan update to be further directed in January 2026; (c) Authorize the City Manager to execute the First Amendment to Professional Services Agreement #24-01 with UltraSystems, in a form approved by the City Attorney, to complete the biological surveying services for the Open Space and Conservation Element Update project; and
(d) Find recommended actions exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15306
PUBLIC HEARINGS - APPEALS
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Continuances of Appeal Items A, B, and C were heard before the Consent Calendar.
A. APPEAL OF DESIGN REVIEW BOARD'S APPROVAL OF DESIGN REVIEW 24-1151 AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 24-1152, FOR ADDITIONS AND
REMODEL OF AN EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING, NEW TWO-CAR
GARAGE, ELEVATED DECK ADDITIONS, GRADING, LANDSCAPING, NEW POOL
AND SPA, AND A NEW ATTACHED ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT, AND VARIANCE 24-1153 FOR ADDITIONS INTO THE FRONT YARD, REAR YARD, AND
ADDITIONAL BUILDING SETBACKS, AND A NEW POOL IN THE FRONT YARD SETBACK AT 31731 SEACOVE DRIVE IN THE R-1, RESIDENTIAL LOW-DENSITY
ZONE, AND FINDING THE PROJECT CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT GUIDELINES SECTION 15301 (CLASS 1)
Moved by Mayor Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Councilmember Sue Kempf, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(1) Continue the public hearing on the appeal to the November 18, 2025, City Council meeting; and
(2) Find the Project categorically exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). -12-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
B. APPEAL OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR DESIGNEE'S APPROVAL OF DESIGN REVIEW 25-0891 FOR AN ELEVATED DECK ADDITION AT 31421 HOLLY DRIVE IN THE R-1, RESIDENTIAL LOW-DENSITY ZONE, AND FINDING
THE PROJECT CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT UNDER THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT GUIDELINES SECTION 15301 (CLASS 1) Moved by Mayor Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(1) Continue the public hearing on the appeal to the November 18, 2025, City Council meeting; and
(2) Find the Project categorically exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
C. APPEAL OF DESIGN REVIEW BOARD APPROVAL OF DESIGN REVIEW 24-2113
FOR MODIFICATIONS TO A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED LANDSCAPE PLAN FOR AN EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING AT 1813 TEMPLE HILLS DRIVE LOCATED IN THE R-1, RESIDENTIAL LOW-DENSITY ZONE, AND CATEGORICAL
EXEMPTION UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT GUIDELINES SECTION 15304 (CLASS 4)
Moved by Mayor Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Councilmember Sue Kempf, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(1) Continue the public hearing on the appeal to the November 18, 2025, City Council meeting; and
(2) Find the action is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act under Public Resources Code Section 21065.
COUNCILMEMBER ITEMS)
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In accordance with Resolution #24.011, the City Council supported Councilmember Bob Whalen's two requests from the Housing and Human Services committee be brought before the City Council to discuss; to modify the ordinance regarding residential units above commercial buildings outside of the Downtown Specific Plan area, and to modify the tenancy termination notification ordinance.
The City Council also supported Councilmember Hallie Jones' request to bring forward an agenda item appointing an ad hoc committee to plan the City's 100-year anniversary. -13-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes October 28, 2025
ADJOURNMENT
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There being no further business, Mayor Rounaghi at 9:25 p.m., Tuesday October 28, 2025, in adjourned to the City Council Study Session at 3:00 p.m., Closed Session at 4:00 p.m. and Regular City Council Meeting at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue. ****************
Approved: November 18, 2025 Me home vi
An Marie Mickay, Cin Croa
Note: All components of minutes shall be for the primary purpose of memorializing decisions made by the legislative body. Any minute component that does not serve this primary purpose will be minimized or eliminated; this includes comments made by individual body members and members of the public. Discussions that occurred during the meeting can be viewed in archived video recordings on the city's website. Public submittals on items received prior to adjournment of the meeting are retained in the administrative record and can be viewed in the city clerk's repository. -14-
NOTICE OF ADJOURNMENT OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
(GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54995)
EXCERPT OF THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH
October 28, 2025
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The Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Laguna Beach was held at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in the City Council Chambers, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California.
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PRESENT COUNCILMEMBERS: Jones, Kempf, Whalen, Orgill, Rounaghi PARTICIPATING REMOTELY: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ADJOURNMENT
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There being no further business, Mayor Rounaghi at 9:25 p.m., Tuesday, October 28, 2025, adjourned to the Study Session at 3:00 p.m.., Closed Session at 4:00 p.m. and the Regular Meeting at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California.
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) SS.
CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH
I, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a full, true, and correct copy of the Minute entry on record in my office. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and affix the official seal of the City of Laguna Beach, California, on this 29th day of October 2025.
_CORPORATED
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TUNE 29,192
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING
NOTICE OF ADJOURNMENT
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1, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, California, DO CERTIFY that at the Regular Meeting of the City Council held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, said meeting was ordered adjourned to the time and place specified in the notice of adjournment, ATTACHED HERETO; and that on October 29, 2025, at the hour of 2:00 p.m., a copy of the Notice was posted at a conspicuous place on or near the door of the place at which said meeting of the City Council was held.
cily Clerk or ine Cily of Laguna Beach, Callima