Laguna Beach City Council Minutes April 14, 2026
MINUTES
LAGUNA BEACH CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
April 14, 2026
A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Laguna Beach was called to order at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in the City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California, Mayor Mark Orgill presiding.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: Kempf, Rounaghi, Whalen, Jones, Orgill PARTICIPATING REMOTELY: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Mayor Mark Orgill led the Pledge of Allegiance.
CLOSED SESSION
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1. Conference with Labor Negotiators
Pursuant to Government Code § 54957.6
1a. Agency-designated representative: Dave Kiff, City Manager Employee Organization: Police Employee's Association
1b. Agency-designated representative: Dave Kiff, City Manager Employee Organization: Municipal Employee's Association 1c. Agency-designated representative: Dave Kiff, City Manager Employee Organization: Police and Fire Management Association- Police Unit
2. Public Employee Performance Evaluation
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957(b)
2a. Title: Dave Kiff, City Manager
2b. Title: Megan Garibaldi, City Attorney
CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENTS)
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City Attorney Megan Garibaldi reported that all Councilmembers were present and there were no public comments prior to the City Council convening into the Closed Session, and that there was no reportable action on any of the items discussed.
ADDITIONS and DELETIONS - None.
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Laguna Beach City Council Minutes April 14, 2026
PRESENTATIONS
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PRESENTATION LAGUNA BEACH HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Received a presentation from Eric Jessen of the Laguna Beach Historical Society continuing the history of the two former piers of Laguna Beach.
PUBLIC COMMENTS - NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
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Alan Boinus presented his concerns regarding light trespass into his home from a neighboring property.
Jon Stordahl, Heritage Committee, noted that May is Heritage Month and announced upcoming activities.
Michelle Highberg, Just Gather, invited everyone to their May 8 "The Art of Being" event at Galerie Rue Toulouse.
W. Bailey Smith opined that more needs to be done to reduce speed and noise on Coast Highway in North Laguna, commenting that the digital signs and decoy police vehicles seem ineffective.
Merrill Anderson thanked the City for the Ask Laguna service request app/portal, commenting on how quickly issues submitted are addressed.
Joseph Yashar, classical guitarist, invited everyone to a Garden Club event on Thursday at Galerie Rue Toulouse.
Tom Osborne announced the upcoming Climate Walk in celebration of Earth Day.
Ed Steinfeld, Voice of Laguna radio, announced that he is donating air time to businesses on the Forest Promenade to help during the construction, and he once again encouraged the City to utilize all its local media outlets to saturate its messaging.
Nick Aronoff presented photos of trash and graffiti left by visitors over the busy spring break season, commenting that additional enforcement is needed.
MATTERS FROM THE MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND CITY MANAGER **************************************************************** In response to public comment, City Manager Dave Kiff advised that City staff adjusted staffing for enforcement and timing of trash cleanup with the influx of visitors from the unseasonably nice weather, and stated that he will provide enforcement statistics at upcoming City Council meetings. -2-
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Councilmember Sue Kempf reported on the Community Preparedness & Evacuation workshops, and encouraged everyone to attend one.
Councilmember Bob Whalen reported that the Hospital Task Force application will soon be released for anyone interested in participating to apply. He also reported on South Laguna Civic Association's annual meeting, and announced that the Laguna Playhouse has an event on April 30 to reveal its new season.
Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones reported on various events and meetings she attended, and advised that Orange County Parks will be starting work on the Valido Trail, which will be temporarily closed for that work to be completed.
Councilmember Alex Rounaghi congratulated Detective Zach Martinez on his retirement.
Mayor Mark Orgill reported on various meetings with members of the public and events he attended.
CONSENT CALENDAR
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Moved by Councilmember Sue Kempf, seconded by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, and carried unanimously 5/0 to approve items 1 - 5 and 9 - 14.
2. MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Approved the proposed revision to a public comment in the minutes of the Regular Meeting for the City Council of October 28, 2025, the minutes of the March 24, 2026, City Council Study Session, and minutes of the Regular Meeting for the City Council of March 24, 2026.
APPROVAL OF GENERAL WARRANTS AND PAYROLL DISTRIBUTIONS
Date Description Reference Nos. Amount
Pavroll-Related Payments
03/06/26 Payroll Checks and Wires FY 2026#18 $ 1,864,875.26 03/06/26 Payroll Checks and Wires FY 2026 #18-1 8.767.68 Total Payroll-Related Payments_S 1,873,642.94
Payments to Vendors:
02/28/26-03/13/26 Wire Payments to Vendors 20-26 $ 477,987.35 02/28/26-03/13/26 Check Payments to Vendors 23011425-23011649 3,546,190.99 Total Payments to Vendors S 4,024,178.34
TOTAL PAYMENTS S 5,897,821.28
Approved the general warrants and payroll disbursements. -3-
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MONTHLY TREASURER'S AND INVESTMENT REPORT (FEBRUARY 2026) Received and filed the February 2026 report.
5. CLAIMS AGAINST THE CITY
(a) Rejected Claim #26-04 filed by Eleanor Martel Gardner; (b) Rejected Claim #25-55 filed by Ben Arnold;
(c) Rejected Claim #26-11 filed by Martin Lopez Rodriguez; (d) Rejected Claim #26-47 filed by Julia Reyes;
(e) Rejected Claim #26-06 filed by Carly Wilner;
(f) Rejected Clain #26-07 filed by Susan O'Brien;
(g) Rejected Claim #26-12 filed by James Huff; and
(h) Rejected Claim #26-05 filed by Cara Castillo.
6. 2026 SUMMER PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN AND TRANSIT SERVICES UPDATE This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by a member of the public.
Moved by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Councilmember Bob Whalen, and carried unanimously 5/0 to
(a) Receive and file an update on the summer 2025 Parking Management Plan and transit service performance;
(b) Acknowledge the current cost per boarding of the Laguna Canyon On-Demand Service, and direct staff to report back with recommendations as to continuing its activities "as is" or to reduce, restructure, or cancel this route due to its current cost per boarding; and
(c) Approve the 2026 Parking Management Plan, which consists of authorizing the City Manager to take the following actions:
a. Execute license or lease agreements, as appropriate, in a form approved by the City Attorney, or continue existing agreements, with Mission Hospital Laguna Beach (#26-63), Laguna College of Art and Design (#26-64), and property owner of 16555 Laguna Canyon Road (Irvine) (#26-65), and 303 Legion Street (Lot 21) (#26-66)with the terms reflected in Figure 3 of the staff report.
b. Offer low-cost peripheral parking at Lot 16 (ACT V) seven days a week from 8 a.m. to midnight, with free trolley service connecting to the art festivals and downtown, at a cost of $5 on weekdays and $10 on weekends and holidays. -4-
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c. Execute license agreement #26-59, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Festival of the Arts allowing (i) the Festival of the Arts to use 65 parking spaces in Lot 12 (the Lumberyard Lot) after 6 p.m. on weekdays and weekends; (ii) the Festival of the Arts to use 25 parking spaces (spaces 1 - 25) at the Lot 13 (Laguna Beach Community and Susi Q Center); (iii) the Festival of the Arts to rent the entirety of Lot 10 one time between July 1, 2026 through August 30, 2026 to host a special event.
d. Execute a memorandum of understanding, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Festival of Arts (#26-60), Sawdust Festival (#26-61), and Art-A-Fair (#26-62) for use of Lot 16 (ACT V) and the LCAD Parking Lot whereby the City will recover the costs related to use of the lots, including the shuttle bus services to the festivals' respective grounds, based on festival attendance during the summer. e. Offer a $25 parking pass for unlimited parking at LAD Parking Lot seven days a week and a $50 parking pass seven days a week for parking at Lot 16 (ACT V) from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m., LCAD Parking Lot from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m., and Lot 13 (Laguna Beach Community and Susi Q Center) Monday - Friday from 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. - 2 a.m. and offer a limited pre-sale of each pass to the Festival of Arts, Sawdust Festival, Art-A-Fair, and Laguna Playhouse prior to making the passes available to the general public.
f. Continue Passport to the Arts parking permit program and authorize the City Manager to approve a City-offered discount rate of $3 for Lot 16 (ACT V) for the festivals to provide to patrons as part of the program. g. Implement summer trolley services to begin on June 26, 2026 and conclude on September 7, 2026 for routes identified in Figure 4.
h. Implement the summer Laguna Beach Local On-Demand Service to begin on June 26, 2026 and conclude on September 7, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. at more than 150 stops in North Laguna, South Laguna, Top of the World, Bluebird Canyon, Arch Beach Heights, Laguna Canyon Road, and downtown.
i. Implement a print and digital marketing program to promote summer trolley service, the Laguna Beach Trolley app, low or no-cost peripheral parking lots, the Laguna Beach Parking app, and the City's new one-time mobile payment option for parking; provide enhanced wayfinding signage along Laguna Canyon Road and Coast Highway directing visitors to peripheral parking lots and other key destinations; and display a digital sign outside of ACT V lot to display real-time parking availability. -5-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes April 14, 2026
FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 3.24 OF THE LAGUNA BEACH
MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING THE CITY'S FINANCIAL GUIDELINES AND BUDGETING
PROCEDURES AND APPROVAL OF BUDGET CHANGE PROCESS ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by Councilmember Bob Whalen.
Councilmembers Alex Rounaghi and Bob Whalen, and Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones, expressed reservations regarding the changes. Staff responded to the Councilmembers' concerns.
Public Testimony: Mary Locatelli commented on the item.
Moved by Councilmember Bob Whalen, seconded by Councilmember Sue Kempf, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Introduce and waive first reading for an Ordinance titled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 3.24 OF THE LAGUNA
BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING THE CITY'S FINANCIAL GUIDELINES AND BUDGETING PROCEDURES, DELETING SECTION 3.01.060 DEALING WITH A BOND
REQUIREMENT FOR THE FINANCE DIRECTOR, AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS NOT A PROJECT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT"; (b) Adopt Resolution #26.022 titled, " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING CITY COUNCIL POLICY NO. 4.1,
BUDGET CHANGE REQUEST POLICY, TO BE ADDED TO THE CITY COUNCIL POLICY AND
PROCEDURES MANUAL, AND FINDING SUCH ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15378"; and (c) Find that the recommended action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378.
8. SERVICE PROVIDER AGREEMENT FOR DOWNTOWN TREE LIGHTING PROGRAM This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by a member of the public.
Public Testimony: Doug Vogel asked for a delay of vote and explained his reasons.
Moved by Councilmember Bob Whalen, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Authorize the City Manager to execute Professional Services Agreement #26-67 with the Chamber of Commerce for the Downtown Holiday Tree Lighting Program for Fiscal Year 2026-27; and
(b) Find this action is not a project subject to California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378.
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FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE SALE AND USE OF GLUE TRAPS IN
LAGUNA BEACH
(a) Waived full reading and introduced for first reading of an Ordinance titled, "AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 6.24.030 OF THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADDING SECTION 6.24.070 TO CHAPTER 6.24 OF THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO THE SALE AND USE OF GLUE TRAPS AND FINDING THE SAME EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT"; and
(b) Found that the recommended action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378 and, in the alternative, is exempt from CEQA under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15308.
10. SECOND AMENDMENT TO TEMPORARY STAFFING PROFESSIONALS, INC., AGREEMENT FOR
ON-CALL TEMPORARY STAFFING SERVICES
(a) Authorized the City Manager to execute a Second Amendment to Agreement No. 25- 72 with Temporary Staffing Professionals, Inc., to increase the contract by $150,000 for a revised total not to exceed the amount of $250,000 and extend the term through September 30, 2026; and
(b) Found that the action does not constitute a project under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Guidelines Section 15378.
11. AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION AND APPRAISAL SERVICES FOR
THE COAST HIGHWAY SIDEWALK GAP CLOSURES TO ACHIEVE COMPLETE STREETS (CARDINAL TO 7TH) PROJECT
(a) Authorized the City Manager to execute professional services agreement #26-68 with Bender Rosenthal, Inc. (BRI) in the amount of $128,679.61, to provide right-of-way acquisition and appraisal services for the Coast Highway Sidewalk Gap Closures (Cardinal to 7th) Project;
(b) Authorized the City Manager to approve future project-related expenses and change orders for unforeseen circumstances in an amount not-to-exceed $12,000; and (c) Found that said actions are not projects pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines section 15378(b)(4). Further, these actions are statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines sections 15060(c)(2) and 15262.
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12. SERVICE PROVIDER AGREEMENT WITH COMMUNITY COUNTERPART SERVICES FOR VIEW
PRESERVATION, VIEW RESTORATION AND HEDGE HEIGHT CLAIM PROGRAM
IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES
(a) Authorized the City Manager to execute Agreement #26-69 with Community Counterpart Services for a not-to-exceed amount of $150,000 per fiscal year for a three (3) year and two (2) month term; and
(b) Found that the action is not a "project" under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines.
13. AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE THE THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING WITH THE COUNTY OF ORANGE FOR THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM
(a) Authorized the City Manager to execute the Third Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding with the County of Orange for the Community Development Block Grant Program, extending the term through June 30, 2027, and secure $140,326 to offset operational costs at the City's Alternative Sleeping Location in Fiscal Year 2027; and
(b) Found that the proposed action is not a "project" under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(4) and (5).
14. INTERVIEWS AND APPOINTMENT TO THE ORANGE COUNTY MOSQUITO & VECTOR
CONTROL DISTRICT (OCMVCD)
Appointed Joanne McMahon to serve on the Orange County Mosquito & Vector Control District Board, with a term beginning immediately, through January 3, 2028.
15. WORKPLAN TO EVALUATE JOINING THE ORANGE COUNTY POWER AUTHORITY (ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE, ESC
This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar by Councilmember Bob Whalen.
Steve Chatima, Environmental Sustainability Committee, responded to Councilmember Bob Whalen.
Public Testimony: Ayn Craciun, Orange County Climate Action Campaign, and Jacquie Henderson, Orange County Power Authority weighed in on the item.
Moved by Councilmember Bob Whalen, seconded by Mayor Mark Orgill, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
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(a) Direct staff and the Environmental Sustainability Committee (ESC) to implement the proposed work plan, as modified by the City Council to remove any effort that requires the expenditure of funds;
(b) Authorize the City Manager to execute any related Nondisclosure Agreements; and (c) Direct staff to return to the City Council with findings, community input, and recommendations regarding potential Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) membership.
REGULAR BUSINESS
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16. FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 18 AND SECTIONS 6.16.020 AND
8.04.010 OF THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION FOR
SPECIAL EVENTS
Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmember's questions.
Public Testimony: Adam Redding-Kaufman requested that the City Council maintain the current surf/swim zones. Aaron Poluso voiced concerns about modifications to the surf/swim zones to Aliso Beach and umbrellas/EZ ups on the beach. Nick Aronoff said he agreed with the prior speakers.
Moved by Councilmember Bob Whalen, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones, and carried 3/2 (Councilmembers Kempf and Rounaghi opposed) to approve the proposed revisions to Laguna Beach Municipal Code section 18.04.020 "Canopies, awnings, umbrellas, tents and other covers," as modified.
Moved by Councilmember Bob Whalen, seconded by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Adopt Resolution #26.023 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING LOCATIONS WHERE SPECIAL EVENTS ARE ALLOWED AND RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING SPECIAL EVENTS; AND FINDING
THE ACTION CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304"; and (b) Waive the full reading and introduce by title only, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, AMENDING TITLE 18 AND SECTIONS 6.16.020 AND 8.04.010 OF THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE; AND FINDING SUCH ACTION
EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT UNDER CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304, "as revised and presented.
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After Item #20, per Assistant City Attorney Jane Abzug's request, the City Council voted to reconsider the motion related to the Ordinance.
Moved by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Councilmember Bob Whalen, and carried unanimously 5/0 (with the caveat that Kempf and Rounaghi remain opposed to the proposed revisions to Laguna Beach Municipal Code section 18.04.020 "Canopies, awnings, umbrellas, tents and other covers,") to waive the full reading and introduce by title only, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, AMENDING TITLE 18 AND SECTIONS 6.16.020 AND 8.04.010 OF THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE; AND
FINDING SUCH ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT UNDER CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304, "as revised and presented by Assistant City Attorney Jane Abzug.
17. RESOLUTIONS AND APPROPRIATIONS RELATED TO SALE OF BONDS FOR UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2021-3 (FAIRVIEW/LA BREA
Presentation and Discussion: Staff and consultants gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions regarding the bond sale for Underground Utility Assessment District 2021-3 (Fairview/La Brea).
Moved by Councilmember Sue Kempf, seconded by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Adopt Resolution #26.024 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, DETERMINING UNPAID ASSESSMENTS IN UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2021-3 (FAIRVIEW/LA BREA) AND THE MANNER OF PAYMENT THEREOF AND LISTING BONDS ISSUED ON THE SECURITY THEREOF"; (b) Adopt Resolution #26.025 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2021-3 (FAIRVIEW/LA BREA) LIMITED OBLIGATION
IMPROVEMENT BONDS, AWARDING THE SALE OF SUCH BONDS, APPROVING FISCAL
AGENT AGREEMENT, OFFICIAL STATEMENT, BOND PURCHASE AGREEMENT, AND
CONTINUING DISCLOSURE CERTIFICATE AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR FINANCE DIRECTOR TO NEGOTIATE THE TERMS OF THE PURCHASE OF THE BONDS"; (c) Approve the purchase of Underground Utility Assessment District 2021-3 (Fairview/La Brea) public offering municipal serial bonds at a 25-year term with an estimated true interest cost of 5.01%;
(d) Authorize the City Manager to award a task order to Accenture in the amount of $160,300 for construction management and inspection services, and authorize the City Manager to approve project-related expenses and change orders for additional -10-
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construction inspection services that may be required in an amount not-to-exceed $20,000;
(e) Appropriate $5,058,750 for construction and other related expenses within Underground Utility Assessment District 2021-3 (Fairview/La Brea), increase revenues by the same amount, and authorize the City Manager to expend all appropriated fund; (f) Authorize the City Manager to enter into necessary utility company agreements and make advance payments to the utility companies for their construction services for a total amount of $1,208,831; and
(g) Determine that the action is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines sections 15301(b), 15302(c) & (d), and 15303(d).
18. PROPOSED UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2025-3 (BLUEBIRD CANYON DRIVE
Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions regarding the proposed Underground Utility Assessment District 2025-3 (Bluebird Canyon Drive).
Public Testimony: Harpal Sadhal, David Dynaes, and Susan commented on the item.
Moved by Councilmember Bob Whalen, seconded by Councilmember Sue Kempf, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Direct staff to establish a fund for proposed Underground Utility Assessment District 2025-3, as shown on the attached Boundary Map;
(b) Appropriate $310,000 from the Wildfire Mitigation and Fire Safety Fund for assessment engineering, bid document preparation, and utility designs for the proposed assessment district;
(c) Direct staff to request that utility companies proceed with design for the proposed assessment district and authorize the City Manager to enter into necessary utility company agreements and make advance payments to the utility companies for their designs;
(d) Direct staff to solicit proposals for assessment engineering, bid document preparation, and street lighting design for the proposed assessment district; and (e) Determine that the action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA guidelines section 15301(b), 15302(c) & (d), and 15303(d). -11-
Laguna Beach City Council Minutes April 14, 2026
19. REPORT ON AMBULANCE PROGRAM PERFORMANCE, RATE INCREASE AND AMBULANCE
PURCHASE
Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions regarding the ambulance program performance, rate increase and ambulance purchase.
Moved by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Receive and file the Ambulance Program report;
(b) Adopt Resolution #26.026 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING THE RATES FOR THE PROVISION OF
ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT (ALS) SERVICE AND BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (BLS) GROUND
AMBULANCE TRANSPORT SERVICE, AND PROVIDING FOR ANNUAL ADJUSTMENTS
BASED ON THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX FOR FIVE YEARS, AND FINDING THE SAME EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT", increasing the City's ambulance transport base rate fee, mileage fee, and incidental materials fee in line with Consumer Price Index increases;
(c) Authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to execute Cooperative Purchase Agreement #26-70 with Professional Sales and Service, L.C., and related financing documents for the purchase of one (1) ambulance, in an amount not-to-exceed $314,988.71 over a seven-year term (with estimated annual payments of approximately $55,000), subject to annual budget appropriations;
(d) Appropriate $55,000 from the available fund balance in the Vehicle Replacement Fund, for the first year payment in FY 2025-26; and
(e) Determine that the action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15378(b)(4) and (5), and alternatively is categorically exempt under Section 15301 (Existing Facilities), and that none of the exceptions in Section 15300.2 apply.
Item #20 was heard after Item #21.
20. FISCAL YEAR 2025/26 MID YEAR BUDGET UPDATE BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS, AND ADOPTION
OF SALARY AND MANAGEMENT RESOLUTION
Public Testimony: Jennifer Zeiter and Adam Redding Kaufman voiced their concerns about the mid-year budget.
Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions regarding the mid-year budget.
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Moved by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones, and carried unanimously 5/0 to:
(a) Approve the proposed Fiscal Year 2025-26 mid-year budget adjustments summarized in Attachment 1 of the staff report;
(b) Approve an increase to the General Fund Contingency Reserve from $17,300,000 to $18,500,000, to maintain the City Council's 20% target balance; (c) Approve the creation of three new Special Revenue Funds (Measure M; Road Rehabilitation Account, and Senior Mobility Transportation Program); (d) Approve the purchase (instead of leasing) of four vehicles included in the City's current vehicle replacement plan;
(e) Adopt the amended salary schedules for Fiscal Year 2025-26 by adopting Resolution #26.027 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, SETTING PAY RANGES FOR CITY EMPLOYEES," which updated the compensation for employees;
(f) Adopt Resolution #26.028 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, RELATING TO CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT POLICIES
AND BENEFITS FOR UNREPRESENTED EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT AND MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES;" and
(g) Find that the recommended action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378.
After Item #20 concluded, at Assistant City Attorney Jane Abzug's request, Councilmember Alex Rounaghi moved to reconsider the motion on item #16, which was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones, and carried unanimously 5/0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS --NON-APPEALS
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Item #21 was heard before Item #20.
21. 600 BUENA VISTA WAY: CONSIDERATION OF A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND LOCAL
COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT TO AMEND THE OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION
ELEMENT TO REMOVE A DESIGNATED SIGNIFICANT NATURAL WATERCOURSE FROM THE
MAJOR WATERSHEDS AND DRAINAGE COURSES MAP AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT
FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT UNDER STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3)
Presentation and Discussion: Staff gave a presentation and responded to Councilmembers' questions.
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Public Testimony in Support of the Application: Larry Nokes, representing the applicants at 600 Buena Vista Way, summarized the open space timeline and the reasons for the removal of a designated significant natural watercourse from the major watersheds and drainage courses map. Davis Cozzens, applicant, stated the reasons he was requesting the watercourse be removed from the map. Mike Cozzens, Patrick Statten, and Newth Morris voiced their concerns with the process that the applicant has had to go through with the city.
Public Testimony in Opposition of the Application: Chuck Krolikowski, representing the homeowner at 644 Buena Vista Way, cautioned the City Council that the applicants wanted new development within the drainage and open area. He suggested adding a condition to the resolution to not allow any development within the drainage area. George Weiss and Gayle Waite listed the reasons they did not support removal of the drainage area from the watercourse map.
Rebuttal: Larry Nokes, representing the applicants at 600 Buena Vista Way, stated the reasons the watercourse map should be amended.
Councilmember Bob Whalen asked the applicants if they would be willing to add a condition to the resolution that no new construction would be allowed in the watercourse. Susan Heystee responded that they would not accept more restrictions on their property.
Councilmember Alex Rounaghi asked about the applicants' statement about "taking" and David Cozzens responded.
Moved by Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, seconded by Councilmember Bob Whalen, and carried 4/1 (Mayor Pro Tem Hallie Jones opposed) to:
(a) Adopt Resolution #26.029 titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 25-2345 AND LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT 25-2369, AMENDING THE CITY'S OPEN SPACE
AND CONSERVATION ELEMENT TO REMOVE A DESIGNATED SIGNIFICANT NATURAL
WATERCOURSE FROM THE MAJOR WATERSHEDS AND DRAINAGE COURSES MAP LOCATED AT AND AROUND 600 BUENA VISTA WAY; REQUESTING SUCH LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT CERTIFICATION BY THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION;
AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3)," as amended and presented; and
(b) Find that the proposed adoption of the proposed amendment to the General Plan and Local Coastal Program is exempt from further review under the California Environmental Quality Act under section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines. -14-
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COUNCILMEMBER ITEMS)
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In accordance with Resolution #24.011, the City Council supported Councilmember Alex Rounaghi's request to create an ad hoc committee with Councilmember Sue Kempf to create an Al (Artificial Intelligence) policy.
ADJOURNMENT
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There being no further business, Mayor Orgill at 10:30 p.m., Tuesday April 14, 2026, adjourned to the City Council Closed Session at 4:00 p.m. and Regular City Council Meeting at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach California. **** **
Approved: April 28, 2026
Quint
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. -15-
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
April 14, 2026
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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, April 14, 2026, in the City Council Chambers, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California.
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PRESENT COUNCILMEMBERS: Kempf, Rounaghi, Whalen, Jones, Orgill PARTICIPATING REMOTELY: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ADJOURNMENT
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There being no further business, Mayor Orgill at 10:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 14, 2026, adjourned to the Closed Session at 4:00 p.m. and the Regular Meeting at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California. ***************
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF ORANGE SS.
CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH
1, 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 15th day of April 2026.
_CORPORATED City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach Californh JUNE 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, April 14, 2026, said meeting was ordered adjourned to the time and place specified in the notice of adjournment, ATTACHED HERETO; and that on April 15, 2026, at the hour of 3:45 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.