MINUTES OF THE
LOMITA CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023
1. OPENING CEREMONIES
a. Call Meeting to Order
The regular meeting of the Lomita City Council was called to order by Mayor Waite at 6:02 p.m. on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, in the Council Chambers at Lomita City Hall, 24300 Narbonne Avenue, Lomita, California.
b. Flag Salute
Mayor Waite led the salute to the flag.
c. Invocation
Council Member Waronek gave the invocation.
d. Roll Call
PRESENT: Council Members Gazeley, Segawa, and Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff and Mayor Waite
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Smoot, Assistant City Manager Sugano, Assistant City Attorney Castillo, Community and Economic Development Director Rindge, Administrative Services Director Kamada, Public Works Director Dillon, Senior Management Analyst Hernandez, and City Clerk Gregory
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff to approve the agenda.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Item No. 7b
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2023
3. PRESENTATIONS
As it was Council Member Segawa’s birthday, the Council and staff sang “Happy Birthday” to her.
Mayor Waite presented a certificate of recognition to LAUSD District South Superintendent Mike Romero. Mr. Romero spoke briefly regarding his time as Superintendent and his new position as Chief of Transitional Programs. He introduced Andre Spicer, the new District South Superintendent.
Mayor Waite recognized and presented certificates of recognition to the new Lomita Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
4. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Victor Ibarra, Public Affairs Manager at SoCalGas, gave a brief update on natural gas prices. He also shared information about programs available to SoCalGas customers.
Steve Navarro, District 4 and Lomita Post 1622 Chaplain with the Lomita VFW, updated the Council on the status of the location’s temporary closure due to a State VFW audit. He stated that the location should be opening again very soon.
5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS FROM THE
CITY COUNCIL
Council Member Segawa had nothing to report.
Council Member Gazeley had nothing to report.
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff reported on the following:
• February 8 – California Contract Cities Association Legislative Session • February 13 – South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG) Transportation Subcommittee Meeting
• February 13 – SBCCOG Steering Committee Meeting
• February 14 – Cal Cities Roundtable on Homelessness
• February 15 – Cal Cities Speaker Series
Council Member Waronek commented on an email sent to the CCCA regarding possible legislation to limit the use of K-9 units by the Sheriff’s Department.
Mayor Waite commented on sidewalk repairs in the City, and on the importance of earthquake preparedness for all.
6. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT (information only)
City Manager Smoot stated that at the February Contract Cities Board Meeting last week, discussion took place regarding the possibility of starting a Lifeline program, which could provide mutual aid support to cities during certain types of emergencies.
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2023
7. CONSENT AGENDA
RECOMMENDED ACTION: That Consent Agenda Items 7a-k be approved.
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff requested to pull Item 7k. Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Council Member Waronek to approve consent agenda items 7a-j.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Approved the following Consent Agenda items:
a. Motion to Waive Full Reading of Ordinances and that They be Read in Title Only RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve motion.
b. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of January 17, 2023, and February 8, 2023, Special City Council Meeting
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve minutes.
c. Warrants/Payroll Register
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve and file Warrants/Payroll Register. d. Monthly Report for the Administrative Services Department RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
e. Monthly Report for the City Manager’s Department
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
f. Monthly Report for the Community and Economic Development Department RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
g. Monthly Report for the Recreation and Facilities Division RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
h. Monthly Report for the Public Works Department
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
i. December 2022 Treasury & Investment Report
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2023
j. First Amendment to Agreement with Hazen and Sawyer for Engineering Services related to the Cypress Facility Upgrades
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Approve the First Amendment to Agreement 2020-18 with Hazen and Sawyer for engineering services related to Cypress Facility Upgrades for a total not to exceed $214,655 inclusive of previously approved funding; and 2) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the Amendment.
PULLED FOR SEPARATE CONSIDERATION
k. Professional Services Agreement with Athens Services, Inc. to Provide Street Sweeping Services
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Award an Agreement for street sweeping services to Athens Services, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $162,000 per year for routine sweeping services for a seven (7) year term and allowing for increases based on a formula related to CPI; and 2) Appropriate $15,000 to account 205-610-5346 for Fiscal Year 2022-23 to cover the additional costs; and 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the Agreement.
Public Works Director Dillon stated that the award for the contract would be based on the existing routes as new routes have not been finalized. The current agreement is a six-month extension that expires at end of March.
City Manager Smoot stated that Athens Services is also the city’s vendor for solid waste collection, so they are working on amendments to both contracts to incorporate necessary changes regarding organic waste. This would be an interim agreement to get the services started.
There was brief Council discussion regarding keeping residents informed of the street sweeping schedule changes and when they would take effect, as well as of Athens providing sweeping services at some City special events in the new contract.
Council Member Gazeley made a made a motion, seconded by Council Member Segawa to approve consent agenda item 7k.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2023
8. SCHEDULED ITEMS
a. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH STETSON ENGINEERS, INC. FOR NEW GROUNDWATER
WELL FEASIBILITY STUDY
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Approve a Professional Services Agreement with Stetson Engineers, Inc. for Engineering Services related to a New Groundwater Well Feasibility Study in the amount of $54,900 plus a 15% contingency amount of $8,235; and 2) Appropriate $13,135 to 520-840-5821.377 from reserve funds; and 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the Agreement.
Director Dillon presented the staff report per the agenda material.
There was brief Council discussion regarding the challenges of having just one operating well.
There being no requests from the public to speak on this item, Mayor Waite brought the item back for a motion.
Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Council Member Waronek to approve the recommended action.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
b. DISCUSSION AND REVIEW OF GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No specific action requested, for discussion and review of the General Plan process.
Director Rindge stated that Items 7b and 7c have been combined into one staff report and presentation. The General Plan Update is the next step after getting the Housing Element approved, and is an important guiding document for the City. The current Plan is 25 years old and there have been many changes since then that must be addressed.
She outlined the purpose of the General Plan Update:
• Guides all future entitlement decisions
• Creates realistic goals
• Embodies public policy
Director Rindge then outlined the timeline:
• Strategic Plan funding
• Approved Safety Element
• Certified Housing Element with 1,000+ units
• Permanent Director & staff
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2023
• Problems with outdated code
• Plethora of new State mandates including October 2024 rezone She then outlined the process, which includes the following:
• GPAC
• TAC
• CC/PC work sessions
• Logo/named
• Community survey
• Active website
• Newsletter updates
• Existing Conditions Background Report
• SWOT analysis
• Draft implementation strategies
• Community meetings
• Final General Plan document
• CEQA requirements
• Zoning ordinance updates
Director Rindge commented on the stakeholders involved and the General Plan Advisory Committee’s (GPAC) meetings and workshops schedule, as well as the Planning Commission’s role in the General Plan Update.
c. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF THE NUMBER OF PLANNING
COMMISSIONERS AND POTENTIAL CONSIDERATION OF AN APPOINTMENT TO
A VACANT SEAT ON THE PLANNING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Discuss and consider the current number of Planning Commissioners as established by the Municipal Code; and should the Council desire to maintain the current seven-member format of the Commission, take nominations for and consider appointment to one vacant seat on the Planning Commission with a term ending June 2023.
Mayor Waite remarked on the quality and variety of Planning Commission applicants.
It was agreed that any applicants not appointed to the Planning Commission should be encouraged to apply for GPAC. There was brief Council discussion relative to the advantages and disadvantages of having five or seven Planning Commissioners.
There being no requests from the public to speak on this item, Mayor Waite brought the item back to the Council.
After deliberations, Henry Sanchez Jr. was appointed to the Planning Commission for a term ending June 2023.
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2023
d. DISCUSSION OF ANNUAL ANTI-GANG/DRUG FREE WALK
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Continue with the Anti-Gang and Drug-Free Event with minor amendments to the judging process for 2023; and 2) Establish a working group to propose any desired adjustments for 2024; and 3) Direct staff to explore the possibility of providing transportation to and from the event.
Director Dillon presented the staff report per the agenda material.
Mayor Waite invited comments from the public.
Brenda Stephens, Lomita Planning Commissioner, gave a brief history of Red Ribbon Week and how the annual “Follow Me, I’m Gang and Drug Free” Walk annual event developed from that. She stated that the unity inspired by the event is needed now more than ever, and urged the Council to keep it as-is, but with transportation to Lomita Park by bus as an option.
There was brief Council discussion regarding payment responsibility for bus transportation, possible changes to the theme of the event, and the use of crossing guards to aid in safety during the walk from the schools to the park.
Lomita Station’s Lt. Mike White offered the support of his deputies to walk children to the event.
Mike Graf, Lomita Planning Commissioner, supported the event and expansion of its theme. He stated that efforts should be made to secure more volunteers as escorts, including City commissioners and staff.
There was brief Council discussion of the efficacy of such events in keeping children out of gangs and away from drugs, and of soliciting involvement from local non-profits, businesses, and churches.
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff made a made a motion, seconded by Council Member Waronek to continue with the Anti-Gang and Drug-Free Event with minor amendments to the judging process for 2023; establish a working group to propose any desired adjustments for 2024; and to direct staff to explore the possibility of providing additional safety measures such as crossing guards.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
e. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF A LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT (LASD) PROPOSAL FOR 2023 ILLEGAL FIREWORKS
SUPPRESSION ENFORCEMENT
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 21, 2023
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Discuss and approve the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s (LASD) Proposal for 2023 Fireworks Suppression Enforcement.
Senior Management Analyst Hernandez presented the staff report per the agenda material.
Mayor Waite invited Lt. White forward to comment. He stressed that residents must call in violations to the Sheriff’s Department on the spot so that enforcement can take place.
There was brief Council discussion about the possibility of legalizing safe and sane fireworks in Lomita.
Steve Navarro, District 4 and Lomita Post 1622 Chaplain with the Lomita VFW, asked about the feasibility of using drones to locate illegal fireworks activity in the City.
Lt. White added that enforcement has to be consistent. He added that safe and sane fireworks are generally not problematic.
Council Member Gazeley made a made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff to approve the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s (LASD) Proposal for 2023 Fireworks Suppression Enforcement, and to direct staff to bring back an item to discuss the process and possibility of legalizing safe and sane fireworks in Lomita.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None scheduled.
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to discuss, Mayor Waite adjourned the meeting at 7:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________________
Kathleen Horn Gregory, MMC, City Clerk
Adopted:
MINUTES OF THE
LOMITA CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023
1. OPENING CEREMONIES
a. Call Meeting to Order
The regular meeting of the Lomita City Council was called to order by Mayor Waite at 6:02 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in the Council Chambers at Lomita City Hall, 24300 Narbonne Avenue, Lomita, California.
b. Flag Salute
Council Member Waronek led the salute to the flag.
c. Invocation
Council Member Waronek gave the invocation.
Happy birthday wishes were extended to Council Member Waronek. d. Roll Call
PRESENT: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Smoot, City Attorney Rusin, Assistant City Manager Sugano, Administrative Services Director Kamada, Public Works Director Dillon, Community and Economic Development Director Rindge, and City Clerk Gregory
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Council Member Waronek made a motion, seconded by Council Member Uphoff to approve the agenda.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
3. PRESENTATIONS
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
None scheduled.
4. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Waite announced the time for public comments on Consent Agenda items or subjects other than those scheduled.
Winona Phillabaum, Lomita Community Library Manager, announced upcoming events and programs.
There being no further requests to speak, Mayor Waite closed Oral Communications.
5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS FROM THE
CITY COUNCIL
Council Member Segawa reported on the following:
• April 6 – Cal Cities Los Angeles County Local Advocacy Day • April 8 – Lomita Easter Egg Hunt
• Recent Founders Day Subcommittee Meeting
• April 17 – Funeral for Former Mayor Lawson Pedigo
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff reported on the following:
• April 5 – South Bay Cities Council of Governments Homeless Services Task Force • April 6 – Cal Cities Los Angeles County Local Advocacy Day • April 8 – Lomita Easter Egg Hunt
• April 10 – South Bay Cities Council of Governments Transportation Committee Meeting • April 12-14 – Cal Cities Leadership Summit
Council Member Waronek reported on the following:
• April 6 – Cal Cities Los Angeles County Local Advocacy Day • April 8 – Lomita Easter Egg Hunt
• April 12-14 – Cal Cities Leadership Summit
• April 14 – Lunch at Google with State Senator Ben Allen; Republic Recycling Facility Center Tour
• April 17 – Athens Recycling Center and Transfer Station Tour Council Member Gazeley thanked fellow Council Members for attending his mother’s funeral service.
Mayor Waite reported on the following:
• April 6 – Cal Cities Los Angeles County Local Advocacy Day • April 10 – South Bay Cities Council of Governments Steering Committee Meeting
6. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT (information only)
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
City Manager Smoot announced upcoming vacancies on the Planning Commission and stated that the application for the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) has been posted to the City’s website.
7. CONSENT AGENDA
RECOMMENDED ACTION: That Consent Agenda Items 7a-j be approved.
Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff to approve the recommended action.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Approved the following Consent Agenda items:
a. Motion to Waive Full Reading of Ordinances and that They be Read in Title Only RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve motion.
b. Warrants/Payroll Register
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve and file Warrants/Payroll Register. c. Monthly Report for the Administrative Services Department RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
d. Monthly Report for the City Manager’s Department
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
e. Monthly Report for the Community and Economic Development Department RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
f. Monthly Report for the Recreation and Facilities Division RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
g. Monthly Report for the Public Works Department
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
h. February 2023 Treasury & Investment Report
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
i. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 847 for Zoning Text Amendment No. 2023-02 Amending Lomita Municipal Code Title XI (Planning and Zoning) to Modify OffStreet Parking Restrictions, to Permit Additional Types of Parking Lot Signs, to Add Definitions, and Finding the Action to be Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Adopt ordinance.
ORDINANCE NO. 847 – AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMITA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT No. 2023-02 AND
AMENDING LOMITA MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE XI (PLANNING AND ZONING) ARTICLE 15 (DEFINITIONS), ARTICLE 66 (OFF-STREET PARKING, STORAGE AND LOADING), AND ARTICLE 67 (SIGNS) AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT. INITIATED BY BRFI LOMITA II, LLC, 11611 SAN VINCENTE BOULEVARD, SUITE 900, LOS ANGELES, CA 90049 (APPLICANT)
j. Agreement with Race Communications for Internet Service at Lomita City Hall RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorize the City Manager to sign a service order and any related documents to renew internet services at Lomita City Hall. k. Professional Services Agreement with Tetra Tech, Inc. for Roof Design for Appian Way Pump Station
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Approve a Professional Services Agreement with Tetra Tech for Engineering Design Services of New Roof Design for Appian Way Pump Station in the amount of $ 86,395.00 plus a 20% contingency amount of $ 17,279.00; 2) Appropriate $63,674 to the Water Capital Fund for this project; and 3) Authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the Agreement.
l. Purchase of Public Works Vehicles
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Authorize purchase of a new Ford F-350 for approximately $61,408.79; 2) Authorized the purchase of a new Ford F-350 with a Rugby Dump Bed for approximately $85,646.11; and 3) Appropriate $12,051.90 from Equipment Replacement for the purchases.
8. SCHEDULED ITEMS
a. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO PREPARE THE ENGINEER’S REPORT FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 1
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Adopt Resolution directing the Public Works Director to prepare the Engineer’s report for Landscape Maintenance District No. 1.
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
Director Dillon presented the staff report per the agenda material. The Engineer’s Report is necessary to determine the cost of service and amount of the assessment for next fiscal year.
In early 2022 a survey of the District’s residents was conducted which revealed bike path usage patterns and opinions relative to maintenance, including water-saving options. The input received will help guide the City’s efforts relative to upkeep in coming years.
Brief discussion was held relative to applying for grants to assist with such costs and the willingness of area residents to pay for the improvements including more drought tolerant materials.
As no members of the public wished to speak on this item, Mayor Waite invited further Council discussion or a motion.
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff made a motion, seconded by Council Member Segawa to approve the recommended action.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Approved the following titled resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-07 – A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF LOMITA, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO PREPARE AND FILE THE ENGINEER’S REPORT FOR LOMITA LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 1, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ACT OF 1972, DIVISION 15, PART 2 OF THE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS
CODE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2023, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2024
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS
a. PUBLIC HEARING #4 TO REVIEW DRAFT MAPS, RECEIVE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON
THE MAPS, AND AN ORDINANCE TO TRANSITION TO DISTRICT-BASED
ELECTIONS UNDER THE CALIFORNIA VOTING RIGHTS ACT
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Open the public hearing to receive public comments on the draft maps; 2) After the City attorney reads the title of the ordinance, introduce on first reading an ordinance establishing by-district elections in the City, defining the boundaries via the selected map, scheduling elections within the districts; 3) Find the same exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act; and 4) Direct staff to schedule the second reading and adoption of the ordinance.
Andrew Westall, Principal with Bear Demographics & Research, presented the staff report per the agenda material. The purpose of this meeting is to conduct the fourth public Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
hearing, receive public comments on the proposed maps, select a Final Map, determine “sequencing” of elections (which districts will have elections first), and then introduce on first reading an ordinance based on these determinations that provides for by-district elections. He outlined the four final draft maps.
Mayor Waite opened the public hearing at 6:30 p.m.
Lomita resident George Kivett spoke in favor of draft map 4, and stated that he supports having districts.
As there were no further requests from the public to speak on this item, Mayor Waite closed the public hearing at 6:31 p.m. and brought the item back for Council discussion.
The Council noted that it is not in favor of districting in Lomita, due to its small size and population. This requirement could be fought but litigation is expensive and there would be no promise of success.
City Attorney Rusin spoke of various legal challenges to the districting requirement, and pointed out that most cities lose in court.
It was noted that the Lomita City Council has had Latino representation for the past several years, and that even though Council was opposed to districting, it still cost the City money to move forward with it.
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff made a motion, seconded by Council Member Segawa to approve the recommended action with draft map number 2.
City Attorney Rusin read the title of the ordinance to be introduced.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Introduced the following titled ordinance:
ORDINANCE NO. 848 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMITA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING SECTION 2-1.29.1 TO CHAPTER 1 OF TITLE 2 OF
THE LOMITA MUNICIPAL CODE ESTABLISHING BY-DISTRICT ELECTIONS,
DEFINING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES, AND SCHEDULING ELECTIONS WITHIN THE
DISTRICTS, AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
b. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 849, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMITA, CALIFORNIA AMENDING TITLE 2, CHAPTER 4, SECTION 2-4.01 OF THE LOMITA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADJUST SALARIES OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS; AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT
FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) After the City Attorney reads the title, introduce on first reading Ordinance No. 849 amending Title 2, Chapter 4, Section 2-4.01 of the Lomita Municipal Code pertaining to City Council member compensation; 2) Find the action exempt from CEQA; and 3) Direct staff to schedule second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 849 for the May 2, 2023, Regular City Council Meeting.
City Manager Smoot presented the staff report per the agenda material. At the last districting public hearing, there was consensus among the Council that election expenses could deter potential candidates, and by increasing salaries, this barrier could be eliminated. The last adjustment to Council salaries was made in 1991, to the current $390 per month. More recently Council Members became eligible for certain benefits, although they are responsible for those costs themselves. As a General Law City, Lomita is limited by State Code and Council salaries would be capped at $1014 per month. In 2022 the City commissioned a class and compensation study for employees and the same comparator cities were used to research this item. The average Council Member salary of those cities is $647 per month, not including benefits of any kind. $660 per month plus $200 per month in automotive allowance is recommended, with no changes to existing benefits options, plus reimbursement of actual itemized expenses (other than automotive-related) incurred in the conduct of duties. The changes would not go into effect until after the next City Council election per State Code.
Brief discussion was held relative to the difficulty in comparing the data collected as many of the comparator cities offer full paid medical benefits for Council Members and their spouses, and whether $660 per month is even adequate considering the time commitment. Additional discussion touched on out-of-pocket, non-reimbursable expenses incurred by Council Members.
Mayor Waite opened the public hearing at 7:02 p.m.
Lomita resident George Kivett supported an increase in the monthly stipend, and recommended $980 per month and $220 per month for the automotive allowance due to higher maintenance and fuel costs.
Lomita resident and former Council Member Henry Sanchez Jr. supported a $1000 per month salary and $200 per month for the automotive allowance.
As there were no further requests from the public to speak on this item, Mayor Waite closed the public hearing at 7:05 p.m. and brought the item back for further discussion or a motion.
Council Member Waronek made a motion, seconded by Council Member Gazeley to increase the monthly salary to $1014 and to provide a $200 per month automotive allowance.
City Attorney Rusin read the title of the ordinance to be introduced.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
ABSENT: None
Introduced the following titled ordinance:
ORDINANCE NO. 849 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOMITA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 2, CHAPTER 4, SECTION 2-4.01 OF THE
LOMITA MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO COUNCIL MEMBER COMPENSATION
AND FINDING THE ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT
c. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING LOMITA
MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE VI (BUSINESSES, PROFESSIONS AND TRADES), CHAPTER 8 (MASSAGE BUSINESSES AND PRACTITIONERS) TO CLARIFY
LANGUAGE AND SPECIFY REGULATIONS, AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (continued from the April 4, 2023, City Council meeting)
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) After the City Attorney reads the title, introduce on first reading an ordinance amending Lomita Municipal Code Title VI (Businesses, Professions and Trades), Chapter 8 (Massage Businesses and Practitioners) to clarify language and specify regulations; 2) Find the action exempt from the California Environment Quality Act (CEQA), and 3) Direct staff to schedule the second reading and adoption of the ordinance.
Director Rindge presented the staff report per the agenda material. This is a cleanup ordinance, as various changes have taken place since adoption of the previous ordinance in 2014. In addition, some parts of the City’s Code were a bit unclear and inconsistent before. Input was received from both the City Attorney’s Office and the Director of the California Massage Therapy Council.
Mayor Waite opened the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. As there were no requests from the public to speak on this item, he closed the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. and brought the item back for further discussion or a motion.
Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff to approve the staff recommendation.
City Attorney Rusin read the title of the ordinance to be introduced. He noted that the draft ordinance title contains the CEQA exemption language twice, which will be edited before adoption and signature.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Introduced the following titled ordinance:
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 18, 2023
ORDINANCE NO. 850 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LOMITA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO AN ORDINANCE TO
AMEND LOMITA MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE VI (BUSINESSES, PROFESSIONS AND TRADES), CHAPTER 8 (MASSAGE BUSINESSES AND PRACTITIONERS) TO
CLARIFY LANGUAGE AND SPECIFY REGULATIONS, AND FINDING THE ACTION
TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT Mayor Waite invited Lomita Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Heidi Butzine forward to speak.
Ms. Butzine announced Lemonade Day will take place on July 22. For more information, visit lomitachamber.org.
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to discuss, Mayor Waite adjourned the meeting, in memory of Council Member Gazeley’s mother Lorraine Frances Manfrass, former Lomita Traffic Commissioner Marty Spain, Ken Thompson of Thompson Building Materials, and former Mayor Lawson Pedigo, at 7:17 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________________
Kathleen Horn Gregory, MMC, City Clerk
Adopted:
MINUTES OF THE
LOMITA CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING
MONDAY, JUNE 5, 2023
1. OPENING CEREMONIES
a. Call Meeting to Order
The special meeting of the Lomita City Council was called to order by Mayor Waite at 4:13 p.m. on Monday, June 5, 2023, in the Upstairs Assembly Room at City Hall, 24300 Narbonne Avenue, Lomita, California.
PRESENT: Council Members Gazeley, Segawa, Waronek, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Smoot, City Attorney Rusin (via Zoom), Community and Economic Development Director Rindge, and Deputy City Clerk Abbott
2. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Waite announced the time for public comments.
George Kivett, Lomita resident and General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) applicant, spoke of his desire for appointment, recommendation letters written on his behalf, and his recommendations for appointment.
Irene Kurata, Lomita resident and GPAC applicant, spoke of her community service background.
There being no further requests to speak, Mayor Waite closed oral communications.
3. SPECIAL MEETING ITEMS
a) DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENTS TO THE GENERAL PLAN
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Review applications, discuss qualifications of the applicants and consider making appointments to the committee.
Perry Banner, Principal Planner with De Novo Planning Group, the City’s General Plan consultant, clarified some expectations and requirements of GPAC.
After discussion, the City Council appointed the following 12 applicants to GPAC:
• John Ballard
Lomita City Council Special Meeting Minutes
June 5, 2023
• Susie Dever
• Adriana Dillon
• Steven Huhta
• Nayeem Khan
• George Kivett
• Irene Kurata
• Denise Marrufo
• Jessiqa Pace
• Henry Sanchez Jr.
• Rosemarie Valdez
• Teresa Workman
4. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to discuss, Mayor Waite adjourned the meeting at 5:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________________
Linda Abbott, Deputy City Clerk
Adopted:
MINUTES OF THE
LOMITA CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 2023
1. OPENING CEREMONIES
a. Call Meeting to Order
The regular meeting of the Lomita City Council was called to order by Mayor Waite at 6:01 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, in the Council Chambers at Lomita City Hall, 24300 Narbonne Avenue, Lomita, California.
b. Flag Salute
Council Member Gazeley led the salute to the flag.
c. Invocation
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff gave the invocation.
d. Roll Call
PRESENT: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite
ABSENT: Council Member Waronek
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Smoot, City Attorney Rusin, Assistant City Manager Sugano (via Zoom), Public Works Director Dillon, Community and Economic Development Director Rindge, and City Clerk Gregory
e. Closed Session Report
City Attorney Rusin stated that the Council met in open session at 5:17 p.m. and recessed to closed session to discuss the following item:
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNCIL- ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Significant Exposure to Litigation Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(D)(2) Number of Cases: One
All members with the exception of Council Member Waronek were present and there was no reportable action taken.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff to approve the agenda.
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 20, 2023
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite NOES: None
ABSENT: Council Member Waronek
3. PRESENTATIONS
Council Member Segawa presented certificates of recognition to retiring teachers Sandra Delosa from President Avenue Elementary School and Alma Sanchez from Narbonne High School. President Avenue Principal Charity Weber and Narbonne Principal Dr. Heather Karuza briefly spoke about the commitment and service of the recipients.
Council Member Gazeley presented certificates of recognition and prizes to the winners of the poster contest for the Annual “Follow Me, I’m Drug and Gang Free” Walk.
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff presented certificates of recognition to the sponsors of the “Follow Me, I’m Gang and Drug Free” Walk. Representatives from Friends of Lomita Library and Michael and Carol Graf were present to receive their certificates.
4. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Waite announced the time for public comments on consent agenda items or subjects other than those scheduled.
Matt Daniel, Lomita resident, shared his frustration at receiving a ticket for an unattached trailer on the street in front of his residence while he was unloading items. City Manager Smoot stated that staff would reach out to him about the matter.
George Kivett, Lomita resident, stated that the sidewalk on Walnut Avenue near the County yard is not ADA-compliant and is challenging to navigate for many residents. He encouraged staff to reach out to the County for possible funding assistance to address the issue.
There being no further requests to speak, Mayor Waite closed oral communications.
5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS FROM THE CITY
COUNCIL
Council Member Segawa reported on the following:
• June 16 – Water Subcommittee Meeting
• Recent Founders Day Subcommittee Meetings
• Announced June 24-25 Founders Day Celebration
Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff reported on the following:
• June 11 – Lomita Little League Closing Day
• June 12 – South Bay Cities Council of Governments Transportation Committee Meeting • June 12 – South Bay Cities Council of Governments Steering Committee Meeting Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 20, 2023
• June 15 – South Bay Aerospace Industry Alliance Event • June 16 – Water Subcommittee Meeting
• June 16 – 34th District State Assembly Member Tom Lackey Meeting Council Member Gazeley reported on the following:
• June 18-24 – National Mosquito Control Awareness Week Mayor Waite reported on the following:
• June 12-13 – South Bay Association of Chambers of Commerce Meeting • Recognized June as Pride Month
6. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT (information only)
City Manager Smoot announced this year’s Founders Day celebration will take place Saturday and Sunday, June 24-25. He stated that the General Plan Update kicked off June 13 with a General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) meeting, and he announced upcoming GPAC public workshops that will take place in the Don Knabe Community Meeting Room at the Lomita Library.
7. CONSENT AGENDA
RECOMMENDED ACTION: That Consent Agenda Items 7a-m be approved.
Council member Gazeley requested to abstain from voting on item 7i.
Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff to approve Consent Agenda items 7a-7h and 7j-7m.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Gazeley, Segawa, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite NOES: None
ABSENT: Council Member Waronek
Approved the following Consent Agenda items:
a. Motion to Waive Full Reading of Ordinances and that They be Read in Title Only RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve motion.
b. Warrants/Payroll Register
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve and file Warrants/Payroll Register. c. Monthly Report for the Administrative Services Department RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 20, 2023
d. Monthly Report for the City Manager’s Department
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
e. Monthly Report for the Community and Economic Development Department RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
f. Monthly Report for the Recreation and Facilities Division RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
g. Monthly Report for the Public Works Department
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
h. April 2023 Treasury & Investment Report
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive and file the report.
j. Consideration of Purchase of Emergency Standby Generator at Appian Way Project RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1) Authorize staff to release the bid package for the Emergency Standby Generator at Appian Way project; 2) Approve the purchase of a standby generator and load bank in the amount of $219,476.40; 3) Authorize the rental of a generator for up to $47,537.79; 4) Reappropriate $57,970 from 520-840-5820.134 from FY 22-23 to FY 23-24; 5) Appropriate $348,414.19 to 520-840-5820.134 for FY 23-24; 6) Find this project Categorically exempt from CEQA; and 7) Authorize the City Manager to execute the Purchase Orders for Standby Generator, Rental Generator and Load Bank
k. Consideration of a Lease Agreement with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles for 150 Acre-Feet of Unused FY 2022-2023 Groundwater Pumping Rights RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve a lease agreement with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles for 150 acre-feet of unused FY 2022-2023 groundwater pumping rights at a price of $100.00 per acre-foot for a total of $15,000; and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.
l. Consideration of an Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Westfield Electric, Inc. to Provide As-Needed Electrical Services RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorize the City Manager to execute an amendment to the agreement with Westfield Electric, Inc. to provide professional as-needed electrical services.
m. Consideration of Budget Amendment for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Annual Contract
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 20, 2023
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorize the City Manager to execute the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Form 575 for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and amend the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget for an additional $165,000 for a total of $4,504,560.
PULLED FOR SEPARATE CONSIDERATION
i. Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 854 for Zoning Text Amendment No. 2023-06, Amending Lomita Municipal Code Title XI (Planning and Zoning) Modifying Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Regulations, and Finding the Action to be Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Adopt ordinance.
Council Member Gazeley abstained from voting on this item.
Council Member Segawa made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff to approve Consent Agenda item 7i.
MOTION CARRIED by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members: Segawa, Mayor Pro Tem Uphoff, and Mayor Waite NOES: None
ABSENT: Council Member Waronek
ABSTAIN: Council Member Gazeley
Adopted the following titled Ordinance.
ORDINANCE NO. 854 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LOMITA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING LOMITA MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE XI (PLANNING AND ZONING), CHAPTER 1 (ZONING), REVISING THE CITY’S
REGULATIONS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS TO COMPLY WITH STATE
LEGISLATION AND REESTABLISH CITY STANDARDS AND A DETERMINATION
THAT THE PROJECT IS CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
8. SCHEDULED ITEMS
a. UPDATE AND DISCUSSION OF THE CYPRESS WATER PRODUCTION FACILITY RECOMMENDED ACTION: Information only.
Director Dillon reported on milestones and pending items of the Cypress Water Production Facility (CWPF). She outlined major project elements including construction highlights which include a generator and chemical tank relocations, demolition, new instrumentation and controls, and a new security system. She commented on the anticipated start-up process, proposed sampling schedule, and the anticipated date of delivering water by October 2023.
Lomita City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 20, 2023
Lynn Grijalva, Vice-President of Hazen and Sawyer, the City’s water treatment engineering contractor, gave clarifying comments regarding reservoir capacity and water supply for emergencies.
In response to a question from Council Member Gazeley, Director Dillon stated that the project is scheduled to be completed for just under the budget of five million dollars.
George Kivett, Lomita resident, expressed concerns with the reservoir’s ability to provide water to residents in an emergency.
In response to a question from Mayor Waite, Director Dillon stated that she believed that the facility could be run on a backup generator for three days and clarified that this would only feed into the area designated as Zone 1.
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None scheduled.
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to discuss, Mayor Waite adjourned the meeting at 7:02 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________________
Kathleen Horn Gregory, MMC, City Clerk
Adopted: