INCORPORATED 1939
CALIFORNIA
MINUTES OF THE MAY 12, 2026
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALOS VERDES ESTATES, CALIFORNIA
CALL TO ORDER - The meeting was called to order by Mayor Kemps at 6:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Kemps.
ROLL CALL - The Roll Call was conducted by City Clerk Cook.
PRESENT: Mayor Kemps, Mayor Pro Tem Lazzaro, Councilmember Lozzi, Councilmember Quinn, and Councilmember McGowan
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Kallman, City Attorney Rusin, Chief Hellinga, City Clerk Cook, City Treasurer Petersen, Community Development Director Brady, and Public Works Director Antillon
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mayor Kemps called for the approval of the agenda. There being no changes, the following motion was presented.
ACTION: Moved by Councilmember Lozzi and seconded by Councilmember Quinn to approve the agenda.
AYES: McGowan, Quinn, Lozzi, Lazzaro and Kemps
NOES None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
MAYOR'S REPORT - MATTERS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
Mayor Kemps reported on the official launch of a partnership between the City of Palos Verdes Estates, Palos Verdes Stables, and Mains for Movement, highlighted by a community event held earlier that day.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 2026
The collaboration introduces equine-assisted therapy programs designed to serve children and adults with a range of abilities, supporting the development of strength, coordination, communication skills, confidence, and overall well-being. The Mayor noted that the initiative represents a meaningful expansion of the City's recreational and therapeutic offerings and reflects its commitment to inclusivity and community wellness.
The Mayor also recognized Palos Verdes Stables as a longstanding and valued community asset, noting that as the facility celebrates its 100th anniversary, the partnership both honors its history and expands its role as a place of healing, accessibility, and engagement. Appreciation was expressed to the stable's concessionaire, Megan Padilla and her family, City staff, and regional partners, including representatives from Rolling Hills Estates, for their collaboration in bringing the program to fruition. Mayor Kemps further acknowledged Councilmember Lozzi for her leadership in helping initiate the effort during her prior term as Mayor.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
The City Manager presented the City's new citizen request system, scheduled to launch on May 15, 2026. The system will provide residents with a centralized online platform to submit service requests at any time, with requests automatically routed to the appropriate department for action.
The City Manager explained that the system is designed to enhance customer service and transparency by allowing residents to track requests in real time, receive status updates, and submit supporting details such as photos and location information. The City Manager further noted that staff training is underway, and the system has been tested internally in preparation for its launch, with plans for promotion through the City's website and communication channels.
Following the City Manager's Report, Police Chief Hellinga provided a summary of recent police activity over the past several weeks, highlighting a number of proactive enforcement efforts undertaken by the department. These included multiple arrests involving individuals with parole violations, possession of illegal weapons, and suspected attempted theft. The Chief emphasized that these actions often resulted from officers identifying suspicious behavior and intervening early, which in several cases likely prevented more serious crimes from occurring in residential neighborhoods.
Chief Hellinga also reported on a significant investigation conducted by the Department's Detective Bureau involving a caretaker accused of financial fraud and elder abuse. The investigation led to the identification and arrest of the suspect, as well as the recovery of evidence. The Chief noted that a press release would be issued to encourage additional victims, if any, to come forward, underscoring the Department's commitment to protecting vulnerable members of the community.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 2026
Christian Campisi provided an update on Measure PF, a proposed public safety funding initiative, and outlined ongoing community outreach efforts in support of the measure. He noted that volunteers have been actively engaging with residents through direct conversations and informational efforts, emphasizing the measure's focus on maintaining strong police presence and fire safety services. He also highlighted the broad community support for the initiative and encouraged continued awareness and participation ahead of the upcoming election.
CONSENT AGENDA (ITEMS 1 - 6)
Mayor Kemps called for the approval of the Consent Agenda. There being no changes, the following motion was made.
ACTION: Moved by Councilmember Lozzi and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lazzaro to approve the consent agenda.
AYES: McGowan, Quinn, Lozzi, Lazzaro and Kemps
NOES None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1. APPROVAL OF WARRANTS
Reviewed and approved April 28, 2026, Warrant Register.
2. FINANCIAL REPORTS
Reviewed and approved.
3. CITY COUNCIL MEETING ACTIONS
Approved the minutes for the April 28, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting
4. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION NO. R26-15 JOINING THE CALIFORNIA
JPIA'S COALITION TO PROTECT COMMUNITY SERVICES
Adopted Resolution No. R26-15 supporting the Coalition to Protect Community Services and authorizing the Mayor to sign a letter of support on •
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES •
REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 2026
In closing, Chief Hellinga emphasized the Department's continued focus on proactive policing, rapid response, and thorough investigative work. He highlighted the critical role of community members in reporting suspicious activity, noting that several of the incidents began with calls from residents. The Chief reiterated that this partnership between the Police Department and the community remains a key factor in maintaining public safety and preventing crime.
PRESENTATIONS:
PV STABLES - Manes for Movement
Megan Padilla, Concessionaire of the Palos Verdes Stables and Dr. Erin O'Maney, Founder and Executive Director of Manes for Movement, delivered a presentation outlining the introduction of equine-assisted therapy services within the community. The presenters provided an overview of the program's mission, history, and growth, highlighting its role in serving children and adults with disabilities through therapeutic interaction with horses to support physical, emotional, and developmental progress. They discussed the successful expansion of the program into Palos Verdes Estates and the opportunities it creates to broaden access to these services locally. Members of the City Council expressed strong support for the partnership and conveyed appreciation for the efforts of the organizations and staff in bringing this valuable and impactful program to the community.
Presentation on the Olmstead Network
Victoria Van Has, Senior Director of Programs and Partnerships from the Olmsted Network delivered a presentation on the significance of preserving Olmsted-designed landscapes, highlighting the historical importance of the City's planned environment and its connection to the Olmsted legacy. The presentation included discussion of potential opportunities for partnership with the organization to support education, community engagement, and national recognition of the City's historic landscape design. Following discussion, the City Council expressed interest in these opportunities and directed staff to return with a future agenda item to consider options for formal recognition, including the potential installation of a commemorative plaque or marker.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
John Credell announced the upcoming Neighborhood Watch "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" event, scheduled for May 31, 2026. He described the annual community event as an opportunity for residents across multiple neighborhoods to connect with one another, meet local police and fire personnel, and strengthen community relationships. The event will include family-friendly activities, participation from public safety teams, and neighborhood-based gatherings designed to encourage engagement and collaboration among residents.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 2026
• ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPROVAL OF THE "ROA EPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017" PROPOSED PROJECT LIST FO FY 2026-27
Adopted Resolution R26-16 authorizing the approval of the "Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (Senate Bill 1)" Proposed Project List for the City of Palos Verdes Estates; and 2. Directed the City's Public Works Director to submit the Project List and supporting documentation to the California Transportation Commission (CTC).
6. CONSIDERATION OF CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO.1 TO THE
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT WITH CALI STATE PAVING FOR THE
STRUCTURAL REPAIRS FOR EXISTING TIEBACK SHORING STABILIZATION WALL ON PALOS VERDES DRIVE WEST PROJECT (PW-704-23) IN AN AMOUNT OF $37,361.86; APPROPRIATE ADDITIONAL FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $37,361.86 FROM TRANSIT PROP C FUNDS; AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL CONTRACT DOCUMENTS
Adopted Resolution R26-17 to approve Contract Change Order (CCO) No.1 to the construction contract with Cali State Paving for the Structural Repairs for Existing Tieback Shoring Stabilization Wall on Palos Verdes Drive West Project (PW-704-23) in an amount of $37,361.86; 2. Approved additional in the amount of $37,361.86 from Transit Prop C funds; and 3. Authorized the City Manager to execute all contract documents.
OLD BUSINESS
1. PRESENIATION OF DRAFT FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 GENERAL. FUND
OPERATING BUDGET AND DRAFT CAPTIAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 - FISCAL YEAR 2030-2031
City Manager Kallman introduced the item and provided context for the budget process, noting that this was the final comprehensive review prior to formal adoption.
The presentation was then led by Deputy City Manager, George Gabriel and Noah Daniels of LSL Consultants, with Oscar Antillon, Public Works Director providing an overview of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Staff summarized the proposed General Fund budget, highlighting a projected structural deficit of approximately $1.7 million, updates to revenue and expenditure assumptions, and adjustments made since prior meetings. The CIP presentation emphasized the City's long-term infrastructure needs, noting that a significant portion of planned projects remains unfunded and will require future financial planning.
During Council discussion, members expressed concern regarding the ongoing structural deficit and the City's limited ability to fund both operational obligations and long-term capital needs.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 2026
Further discussion focused on the challenge of balancing pension liabilities with infrastructure funding, with Councilmembers noting that both represent critical financial obligations that must be addressed. The Council also discussed the importance of improving communication with residents regarding the City's financial condition, including the need to clearly convey unfunded liabilities, infrastructure demands, and the limitations of current revenues.
City Staff emphasized that, while the proposed budget reflects fiscal constraints, it does not include funding for several priority items such as enhanced fire mitigation, additional pension contributions, and expanded capital improvements.
Councilmembers acknowledged that the budget represents a realistic assessment of current resources and generally supported moving the document forward for formal adoption at the next meeting. No substantive changes were directed at this stage, though staff was encouraged to continue public education efforts regarding the City's financial challenges and long-term needs.
John Williams commented on pension obligations and long-term liabilities, offering observations regarding the presentation of related information and encouraging continued efforts to enhance transparency and public understanding of pension- related costs.
ACTION: The City Council received and discussed the draft budget and CIP and directed staff to return with the proposed budget for formal adoption at the next regularly scheduled meeting.
MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS AND TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
The Mayor reflected positively on the Palos Verdes Stables and Mains for Movement event, noting it as a meaningful and successful community initiative.
Councilmember McGowan reported on participating in the audit services selection process and noted that a recommendation would be forthcoming.
Councilmember Lozzi highlighted the success of the Palos Verdes Stables and Mains for Movement partnership and event, noting it as a meaningful and positive communit initiative. She also reminded the public of the upcoming bulk trash pickup event Mayor Pro Tem Lazaro reflected positively on the Palos Verdes Stables event, noting it as a refreshing opportunity to focus on a positive community initiative.
Lastly, Councilmember McGowan requested a future presentation on Southern California Edison's vegetation management program related to fire mitigation.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 2026
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business being presented, the meeting was adjourned by Mayor Kemps at 8:18 p.m. to Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
RESPECTFULLY submitted: APPROVED:
lametal cad colo
rameka J. Cook, City Cler Michael Kemps, Mayor
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 12, 2026