DO MOS, VERDES
6050 ENO
INCORPORATED 1939
CALIFORNIA
MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 24, 2026
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALOS VERDES ESTATES, CALIFORNIA
CALL TO ORDER - The meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Kemps.
ROLL CALL - City Clerk Cook conducted the roll call and announced a quorum.
PRESENT: Mayor Kemps, Mayor Pro Tem Lazzaro, Councilmember Lozzi, Councilmember McGowan (Councilmember Quinn was absent).
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Kallman, City Attorney Rusin, Chief Hellinga, City Clerk, Cook, Deputy City Manager Gabriel, City Treasurer, Petersen, Community Development Director Brady, Public
Works Director Antillon, and Senior Accountant Hayes.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mayor Kemps called for approval of the agenda and inquired whether any Was madembers wished to propose changes. There being none, the following motion ACTION: Moved by Councilmember Lozzi and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lazzaro to approve the agenda.
AYES: McGowan, Lozzi, Lazzaro and Kemps
NOES: None
ABSENT: Quinn
ABSTAIN: None
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
MAYOR'S REPORT - MATTERS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
The Mayor announced that his report would be waived due to the high level of public interest in the meeting. Following the announcement, he moved to the City Manager's Report.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager Kallman provided two primary updates to the Council.
Palos Verdes Drive West Structural Repair Project
The City Manager announced that construction would begin the following week on the structural repair project along Palos Verdes Drive West near Bluff Cove. He stated that the project involves rebuilding and stabilizing a retaining wall supporting the roadway, a repair that follows years of engineering studies. Mr. Kallman noted that no road closures were anticipated, though sidewalk and trail closures would occur toward the end of the project. Additional project information is available on the City's website.
Acknowledgment of Deputy City Manager and Staff
The City Manager thanked the Deputy City Manager, George Gabriel, and City staff for facilitating the prior Council meeting during his absence due to illness. He noted that Mr.
Gabriel's leadership during the meeting reflected ongoing succession-planning efforts within the organization. The City Manager also acknowledged staff support provided during his absence and thanked the Council for their patience. He concluded by stating that he had fully recovered.
Police Chief Report
The Police Chief provided a detailed briefing regarding:
• A February 23 incident in Rolling Hills Estates involving shots fired at a Sheriff's Department patrol vehicle, and PDEPD's support of the response. • A subsequent call at Neighborhood Church regarding a reported threat, which was resolved after determining the threat was a misunderstanding involving pepper spray, not a firearm.
• A residential structure fire later the same day, where PPEVD responded rapidly and worked with LACOD to ensure safety and address traffic impacts. • Lessons learned about information accuracy and the pace of public communication in emergency events.
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
At the Mayor's request, Chief Hellinga reiterated the legal requirement for motorists to pull to the right and stop when police vehicles are approaching with lights and sirens.
CEREMONIAL/ PRESENTATIONS
Chief Hellinga presented life-saving commendations to Officer John Zbukovic and Registered Nurse Rachel Ebright, recognizing their intervention that saved the life of resident Alan James following a traumatic neck injury on October 30, 2025.
A moment of silence was held for families who have lost loved ones in similar incidents.
Thereafter, the City Council presented proclamations to the recipients and took a commemorative photograph.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
Valerie Gorsuch, PVE Neighborhood Watch President & Malaga Cove Area Coordinator:
Ms. Gorsuch encouraged residents to participate in Neighborhood Watch "Street Meets," informal, one-hour gatherings with local officers to discuss neighborhood safety and crime prevention. She directed residents to pvenw.org to sign up and learn about volunteer opportunities, renew memberships, and receive updates on upcoming events.
Ms. Ramirez - Hanson spoke about local wildlife stewardship, noting recent high winds and observations at an eagle nest, and urged the City to consider a wildlife management program. She also requested greater tolerance for naturalized habitat areas that benefit pollinators and shared an anecdote about increased caterpillar activity along a nearby trail. She further expressed concern over herbicide use on approved project areas and plans to canvass neighbors regarding awareness and comfort with herbicide application; the speaker characterized herbicides as a safety and environmental concern.
Following public comments, Council remarks noted statements that the City has reduced herbicide usage by approximately 90% and included additional comments related to ongoing efforts on this issue.
CONSENT AGENDA (ITEMS 1 - 4)
The Mayor called for Council comments or requests to pull any items from the Consent Agenda. No Councilmembers requested to remove or discuss any items. The Mayor ther invited public comment. There being no public comments submitted or presented for the consent items the following motion was made.
ACTION: Moved by Councilmember McGowan and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lazzaro to approve the consent agenda.
AYES: McGowan, Lozzi, Lazzaro and Kemps
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
NOES: None
ABSENT: Quinn
ABSTAIN: None
1. APPROVAL OF WARRANTS
Reviewed and approved February 10, 2026, Warrant Register.
2. CITY COUNCIL MEETING ACTIONS
Approved the minutes for the February 10, 2026, Council Meetings.
3. PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING ACTIONS
Received and filed the minutes for the Planning Commission Meeting of February 17, 2026.
4. ADOPT A RESOLUTION NO. 26-11 ACCEPTING THE EMERGENCY STORM DRAIN REPAIR AND EROSION CONTROL WORK AT 4425 LUCERA CIRCLE AND
CITY BOUNDARY TRAIL AS COMPLETE, TERMINATING THE EMERGENCY
ACTION, AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY CLERK TO RECORD THE NOTICE OF
COMPLETION
Adopted Resolution No. 26-11, accepting the emergency storm drain repair and erosion control work at 4425 Lucera Circle and City Boundary Trail as complete, terminating the emergency action, and authorizing the City Clerk to record the Notice of Completion.
OLD BUSINESS
5. PALOS VERDES GOLF CLUB CENTENNIAL PROJECT - CLUBHOUSE
RENOVATIONS/ADDITIONS
Councilmember Lozzi recused herself from the item due to membership of the Palos Verdes Golf Club.
City Manager Kallman introduced the item, noting that the project has undergone multiple stages of review before the Parklands Committee, Planning Commission, and City Council. He stated that the Council had previously requested a follow-up presentation once construction bids, costs, and timelines were finalized.
Presentation by PVGC General Manager - David Stocke
General Manager David Stocke provided a detailed update on the Centennial Project:
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
Project Background & Funding
• The membership approved the overall project in 2021 with 62% support, following extensive architectural, operational, and financial planning. • Members previously authorized a $20 million total investment in the club and facilities; Phase 1 (driving range and short-game area was completed early and $200,000 under budget, leaving $17.7 million for Phase 2. • The project team has now secured construction bids that place the total Phase 2 cost at $17,644,000, coming in under the remaining allocation and retaining a $1.245 million contingency—nearly 10% of the hard-cost budget.
Construction Approach & Contractor Selection
• Four qualified general contractors bid on the project; Howard CDM was selected based on competitive pricing and strong performance on the club's prior kitchen renovation.
Scope of Improvements
Mr. Stocke described the planned work as the following:
1. Demolition of the existing Pro Shop, Snack Bar, and related structures.
2. Construction of a new two-story, 13,110 sq. ft. building, housing:
• A modernized Pro Shop with a performance center,
• Expanded snack bar and outdoor dining,
• Bag storage,
• Upstairs men's locker room and lounge with balcony views of Holes 9 and 18.
3. ADA upgrades, including installation of an elevator and improved circulation.
4. Renovation of portions of the existing clubhouse for fitness expansion, storage, staff offices, additional restrooms, and a new meeting space to support city and club uses.
Design Coordination & Historical Review
The presentation also entailed the final design incorporating Spanish-Mediterranean architectural features that reflect and preserve the historic character of the original clubhouse. The PVHA Art Jury reviewed and approved the architecture after several rounds of revisions.
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
Renderings & Visuals
Mr. Stocke presented updated renderings illustrating:
• The new façade with arches and handcrafted stucco,
Expanded outdoor dining patios and firepit seating,
• Redesigned stairways and an enhanced arrival pergola, • Preservation of Magnolia trees, with only two potentially removable per Parklands approval if required for ADA compliance
Public Comment:
Blake Gilman supported the architectural improvements but expressed concerns regarding:
• Historical deed restrictions, specifically the 1940 Parklands deed requiring access for PVE property owners "on at least as favorable terms" as club patrons.
• Ensuring the City is properly compensated through lease/concession agreements, particularly if Measure E does not pass. He urged the City to review access rights and financial terms.
Darcel Ramirez-Hanson commented on issues related to transparency and public awareness regarding funding and public access. She stated that the public should have clearer information about the use and improvement of City-owned property.
At the Mayor's request, and in response to the concerns raised, the General Manger provided clarification on the following items:
• Mr. Stockey affirmed that 100% of project funding is being paid by Club members, not by the City or taxpayers.
• He noted that all PVE residents have dining access without membership and may play golf after 2 p.m. per long-standing policies.
• He also explained that the Club annually contributes approximately $1.6 million to the City through the concession agreement's 10% revenue share.
Council Discussion:
The Council offered comments on the history and extensive collaboration between the City and PVGC:
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
• Councilmembers noted that the City and the Club worked together throughout the multi-year planning process.
• Councilmembers acknowledged that volunteer committees contributed significant hours to the design process and worked to align it with City standards. • The Council noted that the project remained within previously approved budget limits; therefore, no Council action was required. The update was presented at the meeting at the Council's request.
ACTION: Received and filed.
NEW BUSINESS
6. VERIFICATION OF SUFFICIENCY OF SIGNATURES FOR INITIATIVE PETITION
TO ENACT A CITY SPECIAL PARCEL TAX TO FUND LOCAL LAW
ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES
City Manager introduced Jim Priest, Elections Attorney from the City Attorney's Office - Best, Best and Krieger and announced that he would provide a presentation to the City Council.
Attorney Jim Priest presented the staff report to the Council. He explained that a citizen-initiated petition proposing a Public Safety Parcel Tax had completed the statutory signature-gathering process and had been certified as sufficient by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk. The petition contained 1,589 valid signatures, exceeding the required threshold of 1,087, which represents 10% of registered PVE voters.
Attorney Priest clarified that under state election law, once an initiative petition is certified, the City Council must place the measure on the ballot, and the Council does not have authority to alter the proposed measure's text. The Council's only discretion concerns the timing of the election. He noted that two ballot options met statutory timing requirements:
1. June 2, 2026, Statewide Primary Election, or
2. November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election
Mr. Priest explained that cost differences between the two dates would be minimal, because both are consolidated countywide elections with shared costs. He then summarized the measure's key provisions:
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
• Establishes a 10-year Public Safety Parcel Tax to replace Measure E, extending its sunset from 2027 to 2037.
• Sets the tax rate at $990 per parcel plus $0.67 per building square foot, with an annual CP| or 3% adjustment
• Revenues may be spent only on:
PVE Police Department services, and
• Fire and emergency medical services provided by the Los Angeles County Fire District.
Attorney Priest emphasized that the measure expressly prohibits use of the tax for Sheriff's Department law-enforcement services should the City ever consider contracting out.
• Requires annual independent audits, public reporting, and oversight by the existing Finance Advisory Committee, which would serve in an expanded accountability role.
Mr. Priest concluded by reiterating that the Council's action for the evening was strictly procedural specifically, to receive and file the certification and select the election date.
Public Comment:
The following individuals expressed support for placing the measure on the June ballot. Comments on topics including public safety, retention of PVE Police services, structural budget challenges, deferred maintenance needs, wildfire response capacity, and concerns about potential fiscal impacts were made. Personal accounts of rapid police response, and emergency medical aid were also offered:
• Christian Campisi
• Constance Sullivan
• Paul McNamara
• Norm Eagleton
Frank Clark
Ron Fronbauer
. Joe Marino
Timur Teclmer
• Steve Lopes
• George Francisco
Chris Riegel
• Bob Stearns
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REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
• Andre Vuilleumier
• Joan Davidson
• Julie Haynes
• Meg Walker
• Bob Wade
• Joseph Molina
• Chris Brothers
• Kate Greenberg
John Nendick
Steve Freidrich
• Lynn Solimita
• Sheron Papa
The following individuals expressed concerns about the initiative. Speakers raised issues related to tax impacts, affordability for seniors, transparency, and clarification on how general fund dollars affected by the measure would be allocated. Additional comments included requests for clear public communication, fiscal accountability, and accessible explanations of budget modeling.
• John Williams
Darcel Ramirez-Hanson
• Ginny Dixon
Following public comment, the City Attorney reiterated the initiative's sunset date of June 30, 20237 and two key legal constraints:
1. The Council cannot modify the initiative language in any way, including its tax rate, scope, or allowable uses of funds
2. The measure must be placed on a ballot, and delaying is not an available option under state law. The only decision before the Council is which election date.
Council Discussion:
Council members offered extensive remarks:
• Council members noted that City financial reports show structural deficits, deferred infrastructure needs, staffing constraints, and increased public safety costs, and stated that these conditions have persisted since Measure E was adopted. • Councilmembers described the City's long-term budget modeling efforts, including pension funding policy and infrastructure planning, and reported that current projections identify several million dollars in unfunded infrastructure work.
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• Council discussion included the City's limited commercial revenue base, its reliance on residential property taxes, and concerns related to police response times and local service control.
• Councilmembers stated that placing the measure on the June ballot would allow additional time for voter review before Measure E expires in 2027 and would allow the City to plan operational or fiscal adjustments if the measure is not approved.
The Council responded to public concerns and encouraged residents to review the official City data and fiscal models available on the City's website. Following Council deliberation, Council members present voted unanimously to:
• Receive and file the petition certification.
Place the initiative on the June 2, 2026, ballot as a Special Municipal Election.
ACTION: Moved by Councilmember Lozzi and seconded by
Councilmember McGowan to receive, file, accept the certificate of sufficiency of the initiative petition and take action on 2a as listed in the staff report to submit the initiative measure to the voters at the next regular municipal election occurring at least 88 days later, also known as June 2, 2026. (Attorney Jim Priest clarified that the motion should reference the next scheduled election as a special election on June 2, 2026, rather than a regular election.
The maker of the motion accepted this clarification, and the motion was amended accordingly.) AYES: McGowan, Lozzi, Lazzaro, and Kemps
NOES: None
ABSENT: Quinn
ABSTAIN: None
MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS AND TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Kemps called for Councilmember reports. Hearing none, the Mayor proceeded to tentative future agenda items. Councilmember Lozzi requested that, at a future meeting, the Council review the list of existing tentative agenda items and collectively determine which items should remain or be reprioritized.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to conduct, the meeting was adjourned to Tuesday, March 10, 2026, by Mayor Kemps at 9:15 p.m.
RESPECTFULLY submitted: APPROVED:
Tameka J. Copk, City Clerk Michael Kemps, Mayor
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