MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Closed Session - Adjourned Regular Meeting 4:30 p.m.
Open Session - Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.
A. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Via teleconference, an Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order by Mayor Brand at 4:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee, Mayor Brand Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Michael W. Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Vickie Kroneberger, Chief Deputy City Clerk
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION – NONE
D. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS – NONE E. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment. There being no comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
F. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION: 4:30 p.m.
F.1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
Joseph Frank v. City of Redondo Beach, Village Spirits, Inc., et al.
Case Number: 21STCV05229
F.2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4).
Two potential cases
F.3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION - The Closed Session is authorized by the attorney-client privilege, Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Name of case:
In Re: National Prescription Opiate Litigation
Case Number: 1:17-MD-2804
United States District Court Northern District of Ohio Eastern Division MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to recess at 4:31 p.m. to conduct Closed Sessions attended by City Manager Mike Witzansky, City Attorney Mike Webb, Assistant City Attorney Cheryl Park, and Assistant City Attorney Jillian Martins.
G. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
H. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee, Mayor Brand Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Michael W. Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Vickie Kroneberger, Chief Deputy City Clerk
Diane Cleary, Minutes Clerk
I. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Manager Mike Witzansky announced City Council giving unanimous direction to City Attorney Webb to defend the City regarding Joseph Frank v. City of Redondo Beach, Village Spirits, Inc., et al, Case Number:
21STCV05229.
J. ADJOURN TO REGULAR MEETING
Motion by Councilmember Horvath, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to adjourn at 6:01 p.m. to a regular meeting. There being no objections, Mayor Brand so ordered. __________________________________________________________________________________ A. CALL TO ORDER
Via Teleconference, a Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order by Mayor Brand at 6:01 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee, Mayor Brand Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Michael W. Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Vickie Kroneberger, Chief Deputy City Clerk
Diane Cleary, Minutes Clerk
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
At the request of Mayor Brand, the audience and Councilmembers rose to salute the flag followed by a moment of silence.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Nehrenheim thanked City Manager Witzansky for joining the Zoom meeting last Monday, reviewed his last in-person meeting items, announced the Holiday Stroll in the Riviera Village on December 2nd, and stated City Hall will be closed after Thanksgiving.
Councilmember Loewenstein thanked City Manager Witzansky for joining his meeting last night, reviewed items presented and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Councilmember Horvath announced a meeting tomorrow night on November 17 at 6:30 p.m. regarding redistricting related to the county and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
Councilmember Obagi stated his next community meeting may be taking place the beginning of December and will send out emails, stated the booster shot is now available in Redondo, and noted a drone on Friday evening from the Police Department using advanced technology.
Councilmember Emdee announced her last community meeting taking place at the PAC with a great turnout and reviewed items discussed, and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
Mayor Brand announced the Veteran’s Day celebration last Thursday at Veteran’s Park and thanked everyone involved and noted the Mayor of Ensenada attended who requested art work from the City, encouraged attendance at the redistricting meeting tomorrow night, welcomed City Manager Mike Witzansky, and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Hanukkah.
E. APPROVAL OF ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Emdee, to approve the Order of Agenda as presented. There being no objections, Mayor Brand so ordered.
F. AGENCY RECESS: 6:14 p.m.
F.1 SPECIAL MEETING OF THE REDONDO BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
RECONVENE: 6:17 p.m.
D. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee, Mayor Brand Councilmembers Absent: None
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Michael W. Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Vickie Kroneberger, Chief Deputy City Clerk
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Horvath, to receive and file additional Items for Items J.1, P.1, and P.2. There being no objections, Mayor Brand so ordered.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED REGULAR AND REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 16, 2021
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.2. APPROVE MOTION TO READ BY TITLE ONLY AND WAIVE FURTHER READING OF ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE AGENDA.
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.3. APPROVE THE FOLLOWING CITY COUNCIL MINUTES:
A. AUGUST 17, 2021 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
B. SEPTEMBER 7, 2021 ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
H.4. PAYROLL DEMANDS
CHECKS 27771-27800 IN THE AMOUNT OF $45,032.47, PD. 11/12/21 DIRECT DEPOSIT 241553-242071 IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,794,390.16, PD. 11/12/21 EFT/ACH $361,293.86, PD. 11/03/21 (PP2122)
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 101227-101416 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,203,488.68
REPLACEMENT DEMANDS 101222-101226
CONTACT: JENNIFER PAUL, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. EXCUSE ABSENCES OF VARIOUS COMMISSIONERS FROM VARIOUS COMMISSION
MEETINGS
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.6. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH WALLACE & ASSOCIATES CONSULTING, LLC. FOR
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION SERVICES FOR THE ALTA VISTA SEWER PUMP STATION PROJECT, JOB NO. 50300, FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $307,174 FOR THE TERM NOVEMBER 16, 2021 - NOVEMBER 15, 2023
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.7. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2111-112, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AWARDING A PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACT TO PUB CONSTRUCTION, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, IN THE AMOUNT OF $247,000 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PIER RESTROOM IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, JOB NO. 70640
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. PULLED BY COUNCILMEMBER LOWENSTEIN FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION.
H.9. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH FUSUS LLC FOR VIDEO AND DATA COLLABORATION
SOFTWARE AND PORTABLE SECURITY SYSTEM HARDWARE, FOR THE TERM NOVEMBER 16, 2021 THROUGH NOVEMBER 15, 2022 AT A COST OF $51,500 WITH AN OPTION TO EXTEND TWO ADDITIONAL YEARS FOR $40,000 PER YEAR, FOR A TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $131,500.
CONTACT: KEITH KAUFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.10. PULLED BY COUNCILMEMBER NEHRENHEIM FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION.
H.11. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT WITH MACKAY METERS, INC. TO INCLUDE SERVICE FEES AND $129,565 OF PARKING METER EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATION COSTS FOR A NEW TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $760,000 FOR THE TERM NOVEMBER 16, 2021 TO NOVEMBER 15, 2023.
CONTACT: KEITH KAUFFMAN, CHIEF OF POLICE
H.12. APPROVE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING DOCUMENTS FOR THE SALE OF 2750 ARTESIA BOULEVARD, #259, REDONDO BEACH, CA 90278.
1. AGREEMENT CONTAINING COVENANTS, RESTRICTIONS AND OPTION TO PURCHASE [LOW INCOME]
2. ESCROW INSTRUCTIONS
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
H.13. APPROVE A LETTER FROM THE HARBOR COMMISSION REGARDING PROPOSED
AMENDMENTS TO COMMERCIAL HARBOR CRAFT REGULATIONS AND AUTHORIZE ITS
TRANSMITTAL TO THE CALIFORNIA AIR RESOURCES BOARD
CONTACT: STEPHEN PROUD, WATERFRONT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR H.14. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION CC-2111-113, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH APPROVING APPLICATION(S) FOR SPECIFIED GRANT
FUNDS FOR THE REHABILITATION OF SEASIDE LAGOON AND AFFIRMING THE
SUBMISSION OF GRANT APPLICATION(S) TO THE STATE
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Councilmember Horvath referred to Item H.3.B, Page 12, and corrected the Acting Captain’s name from “Jeff Mendez” to “Jeff Mendence”.
Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment.
Holly Osborne referred to Item H.12 and asked about the provisions for allowing the buyers to rent out the property, even if it is to another lower income provision. She also asked how many are owned by a landlord and how many are owner-occupied including the Montecito.
Kathe Head of Keyser Marston Associates explained there is a hardship provision in the Breakwater Agreement that allows owners of the lower/moderate income units to rent the units with City Council approval, but only when trying to sell the property to another lower/moderate household. She also said no one in Breakwater are currently renting out their units.
Mayor Brand asked how this is enforced. Ms. Head stated this would have to come to Council, but noted there are no rentals taking place at this time. She also said Council can change the language of the provision.
In response to Councilmember Obagi, Ms. Head clarified Council tonight is only approving the sale as an affordable unit at a maximum sale price of $123,622.
There being no further comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Horvath, to approve Items H.1 through H.14, with the exclusion of Items H.8 and H.10. Motion carried unanimously with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
City Clerk Eleanor Manzano read all ordinances and resolutions by title only which were included on the Consent Calendar.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.8. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH KOA CORPORATION FOR CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION SERVICES FOR THE CITYWIDE CURB RAMP IMPROVEMENTS 2021 PROJECT, JOB NO. 40399 (FEDERAL HUD B-20-MC-06-0528), FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $52,140 FOR THE TERM NOVEMBER 16, 2021 - NOVEMBER 15, 2023
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
At the request of Councilmember Loewenstein, Public Works Director Ted Semaan gave a report and explained this job is for the Construction Management and Inspection Services for the Citywide Curb Ramp Improvements and was approved on November 2 to include $160K for the bulb out. He explained that S.
Juanita and Camino Real is a remodification of the intersection with bulb outs that shorten the pedestrian pathway which is the majority of funding from the traffic calming. He also said the Anita and Maria location is about $52K and both of the locations won’t have any landscaping and will be mostly hardscape. He further said there will be about $120K left in the Traffic Calming budget.
City Manager Witzansky explained that there are other Traffic Calming projects currently in motion that are spending from the account.
Councilmember Loewenstein suggested considering refunding the Traffic Calming budget.
In response to Mayor Brand regarding no landscaping, Public Works Director explained the area is not big enough and line of sight is very critical at that location. He also said only the Article 3 funds and the CDBG funds are going to the curb cuts and 34 are being constructed.
In response to Councilmember Loewenstein regarding the bulb outs to be completed, Public Works Director Semaan stated the overall project starts in December and is 45 working days and should be completed in the spring. He also said staff met with the City of Hermosa Beach today and the signage upgrades should be implemented by the end of the week.
In response to Councilmember Horvath regarding a runoff issue due to the slope, Public Works Director Semaan explained the area is very steep and will not be a low flow location which is why just concrete was considered.
Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment. There being no comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Horvath, to approve the agreement with KOA Corporation for Construction Management and Inspection Services for the Citywide Curb Ramp Improvements 2021 Project, Job No. 40399 (Federal HUD B-20-MC-06-0528), for an amount not to exceed $52,140 for the term November 16, 2021 - November 15, 2023. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
H.10. APPROVE THE SOLE SOURCE PURCHASE OF THREE (3) AUTO PULSE RESUSCITATION
SYSTEMS FROM ZOLL MEDICAL CORPORATION UTILIZING NATIONAL PURCHASING
PARTNERS COOPERATIVE PIGGY BACK PRICING FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $60,000.
CONTACT: KEITH KAUFFMAN, POLICE CHIEF
Councilmember Nehrenheim reviewed the item and noted a success rate in Catalina. He also said this device has been used in Redondo Beach and works very well.
Captain Jason Brown presented a video and reviewed the following:
• Manual CPR
• Zoll benefits
• Zoll usage
• Currently have 2 devices, additional 3 would help save lives MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
• Cardiac arrest percentages – Zoll increase to 62% with bringing patients back • Example of patient saved by RBFD and utilizing the Zoll Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment. There being no comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to approve the sole source purchase of three (3) auto pulse resuscitation systems from Zoll Medical Corporation utilizing National Purchasing Partners cooperative piggyback pricing for an amount not to exceed $60,000. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Vickie Kroneberger read the comments submitted via eComment by:
Robin Moser, Dianne Staso and Brianna Egan
There being no further comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS – NONE
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS – NONE
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS – NONE
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GRANICUS
OPENCITIES WEBSITE CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTHQ PLATFORM AS AN UPGRADE TO THE CITY’S CURRENT CIVICA WEBSITE
CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
CONTACT: CHRISTOPHER BENSON, INFORMATION TECH DIRECTOR
Information Technology Director Christopher Benson gave a staff report and requested approval.
Luke Norris, Vice President of Platform and Digital Transformation, gave a PowerPoint presentation and discussed the following:
• Key Priorities and Challenges for Redondo Beach
• Granicus is transforming how government and people connect digitally • Customer Experience
• Driving Outcomes with Technology
• How do we make it easy for residents?
• Gone are the days of point in time designs
• City of Lakewood, CO
• Putting residents front & center – Web Platform
• Involve residents with EngagementHQ
• Gone are the days of point in time engagement
• Why transition from Civica is important
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
• Better citizen experience must start with better employee experience • Simple yet powerful publishing experience
• No code, drag & drop
• Reports and Insights
Councilmember Loewenstein noted creation of the content is needed and asked if this is going to be cloud hosted. Mr. Norris said everything they do is fully hosted in Microsoft’s government cloud and also provide additional security capabilities including a content delivery network and also Granicus issues including maintenance during a meeting.
Mayor Brand said the City was looking to leave Granicus due to issues taking place and noted many complaints.
Councilmember Emdee asked about the followup of issues and showing something has been done. Mr.
Norris said there is a work flow tool allowing for a multistep process, but any followup for completion would require an integration with the work order management system.
Councilmember Loewenstein said the City’s streaming video is not up to speed with a lot of buffering issues taking place.
Councilmember Obagi expressed concern with the City’s current website and the difficulty of searching for items. He suggested the ability to access large amounts of information but in a very simply user friendly manner. Mr. Norris stated technology changes will take place which will be much more superior in the new platform. He also said an internally built predictive search capability will take place that indexes and searches all of the content rather than relying on other search streams.
Councilmember Horvath stated the last design was done by a committee and the platform was very limiting.
He supported a better website and removing CIVICA. He said third parties are being used in the City and asked how the system would play with third parties. Mr. Norris explained that the system being proposed has an entire content library of API’s and are building out more and more productized integrations and an integration layer. He said when linking out, they set context to allow for the resident to understand any preparation.
Councilmember Horvath asked about accountability and level of service addressing issues. Mr. Norris stated they provide a robust service level agreement which includes for specific maintenance, upgrades and bug issues and reviewed the response times and priorities. He also said they are implementing a new customer advocacy program.
Councilmember Horvath expressed concern with the complexity of the existing website which is too much and confusing and asked about the design process. Mr. Norris noted visual design (allow for more voices) and user experience design (functionality and data driven). He also said they bind up to 25 residents to have a voice and participation for further information.
Mr. Reis explained that design and usage websites have evolved rapidly and data is driving more and more decision.
Councilmember Horvath supported a simplified process to allow people to get to their answers as quickly as possible. He further asked about staff training of the new system and the projected evolution. Mr. Norris explained that the City would be investing today in a forward compatible design system maintained by Granicus to be forward compatible, protecting and maintaining that code, to ensure it stays compliant with accessibility guideline and mobile responsiveness. He also said they have an entire team and is always looking at the data, productize items being emerged. He also said most content contributors can typically be trained to use the system in about two hours of time.
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Councilmember Horvath asked if the system would allow pulling from other websites or other areas. Mr.
Norris said they have purposely built capabilities that allow for local directories and source content.
Mr. Reis demonstrated a predictive search on a current website.
Councilmember Loewenstein asked about 9’s service level. Mr. Norris stated it is 99.9 which translates to about 1 potential hour per month of downtime.
In response to Councilmember Loewenstein regarding what is being used for video, Mr. Reis stated there are various teams focused specifically on technology of Granicus and do a variety of different things. He also said there has been a tremendous investment and improvement in video.
Councilmember Loewenstein also pointed out that he can get better streaming off of YouTube than their network by using Imperva. Mr. Norris clarified that Imperva is used for the open cities web, not for videos.
Councilmember Loewenstein expressed concern with making decisions in 20-30 minutes on a web publishing tool. He would like to see the current issues fixed prior to being migrated onto another platform being more deeply impeded with Granicus. He also asked if their video is indexed. He said he is not ready to approve this item until the issues are solved first and to have a clear understanding.
City Manager Witzansky suggested re-agendizing the item early January and come back with concrete answers to the questions.
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim, Mr. Norris stated in the last four years, Granicus has acquired three or four companies. Mr. Reis stated the Granicus mission is to expand the platform with pieces of resident experiences. He also reviewed Open Cities and said they are filling in the gaps of the experiences, trying to build a portfolio.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked if there is a document showing the road map. Mr. Reis stated they are a technology company which evolves very quickly and a lot can change quickly.
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim, Mr. Norris reviewed their competitors and stated they compete with a variety of companies and different segments.
Councilmember Nehrenheim also expressed concern with having two staff reports as part of the agenda and the pdf and text not being searchable. Mr. Norris noted road map capabilities that are coming to create better search capabilities across the multiple platforms and can be provided as part of the followup.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked how deep is Granicus into our services. IT Director Benson explained that Comcate is not being replaced and is not integrated, and suggested other areas identified within the City to utilize the tool which would be part of the engagement, identifying the areas of workflow engaging citizens with the new technology.
Councilmember Nehrenheim supported having one consistent platform for citizen requests working across the board.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about eComments and not being part of the record when doing the minutes. City Clerk Manzano explained there is a column created by Granicus for eComments and the minutes are considered permanent records.
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim regarding an app development for agenda management for the website, Mr. Norris said they build in a Mobile First environment and the website is able to render as a progressive web app on a mobile phone but only 1% of residents are currently using it.
Councilmember Obagi suggested that all questions be addressed proposed tonight and brought back in January as well as agenda management, noting limitations of the agenda. He supported the next presentation to address how to promote Comcate as the way to cut down emails from Council to staff.
Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Vickie Kroneberger read the comments submitted via eComment by Lezlie Campeggi.
There being no further comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
Councilmember Horvath stated the iLegislate app on the iPad doesn’t publish any more once you hit a certain amount of eComments.
Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to bring back a report in January to include a detail of questions and answers discussed tonight to include streaming issues, backend, product Road Map, agenda management, website management software, company Road Map, Comcate integration, and that a representative from security and the product team be in attendance. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING APPROVAL OF ASSIGNMENTS OF GENERAL FUND BALANCE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2021 CONTACT: JENNIFER PAUL, FINANCE DIRECTOR
City Manager Witzansky gave a report and discussed the following:
• Ultimate fund balance grew over fiscal year
• Key issues – budget adjusted at midyear
• Transfers in and out
• Outperformed in most areas
• Sales tax stronger than anticipated
• Balanced at midyear - $5.8M at year end in surplus
• $14M remaining
• Revenue charts
o Property tax $31M
o Sales tax
o TOT tax
o UUT tax $7M (no increase)
• Expenditures
o Personnel
o Maintenance Operations
o Internal Service Fund Allocations
• Reserve - $7.2M
• Traditional Assignments
• Encumbrances
• Appropriation for 2021
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
• Summary – supplemental funds
o $4.4M available at midyear as a result of carryover bond proceeds o $3.4M Rescue Plan funding
o $2.8M carryover fund balance
• Wait until midyear to make these designations – staffing discussion to go with it • Recommendations
In response to Mayor Brand, City Manager Witzansky stated the City was just about structurally balanced last year, however, changes and adjustments haven’t taken place this year yet.
In response to Mayor Brand regarding allocating monies, City Manager Witzansky stated appropriation occurs when adopting or modifying the budget to supplement or appropriate money.
In response to Mayor Brand regarding the fire quote, City Manager Witzansky stated the Fire Department assessment will be agendized in December which may take multiple discussions. He indicated after going through the assessment, staff will bring back the process and determination associated with seeking the LA County Services quote, with the questionnaire to follow.
Mayor Brand stated strategic planning is important which isn’t taking place and suggested this getting back on track. Mayor Brand also said the railings at Veteran’s Park still have not been updated.
Councilmember Loewenstein expressed concern with liability issues with the railings. He also questioned the UUT not changing in 16 years. City Manager Witzansky stated there are some areas the City can no longer collect tax such as with streaming rather than cable.
Councilmember Loewenstein supported waiting until February to make designations. He also supported a project management software portal to see the progress and status on projects.
In response to Councilmember Obagi, City Manager Witzansky stated typically there is roughly $3M in structural transfer in’s coming from outside sources but doubled this year due to being a budget balancing tool.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about the status of online permit programs for development permits.
City Manager Witzansky stated there hasn’t been anything proposed as of yet and suggested bringing in someone to help make the right decision. IT Director Chris Benson stated not everything is paid online such as systems hosted by third parties.
Councilmember Nehrenheim supported line item budgeting. City Manager Witzansky stated all line items and classifications now provide more depth and detail.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about looking forward for five years. Finance Director Jennifer Paul stated everything was done in Excel this year and projections were included and suggested providing a more interactive document as well.
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim, City Manager Witzansky stated in CIP 20-21, no money was allocated to the CIP budget and money was extracted to help balance the budget for just under $3M which hasn’t been replenished but can take place this year by way of bond proceeds.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about grant funding. City Manager Witzansky stated this could be a BRR regarding recurring grant sources versus those applied for versus one-time funds.
Councilmember Nehrenheim stated the City of Culver City hired a grant writer and received a lot of money from grants and noted a lot of opportunity with grant funding.
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Finance Director Jennifer Paul noted the sensitivity analysis done working with the assumption from the B&F Commission probable scenario worst and best with four years projected out. Councilmember Nehrenheim suggested projecting out five years.
Mayor Brand suggested a Utility User Tax be put back on the ballot for AES.
Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment. There being no comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to receive and file and approve assignments of General Fund balance for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky stated staff is working on bringing back Strategic Plan Advisory Consultation recommendations in December, and the Fire Assessment report coming back in December as well.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS
P.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING POSSIBLE UPDATES TO REDONDO
BEACH HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATIONS TO MITIGATE THE IMPACTS OF SENATE BILL 9 (SB9)
Community Development Director Brandy Forbes gave a PowerPoint presentation and discussed the following:
• Discussion and possible action regarding possible updates to Redondo Beach Housing and Land Use Regulations to mitigate the impacts of Senate Bill 9
• Adoption of SB9
• SB9 allows – lot splits
• SB9 allows – two units per lot
• SB9 reduces parking requirements
• SB9 restricts development – demolition in certain cases • SB9 restricts development – where lot splits are prohibited • SB9 restricts development – other
• SB9 establishes processing requirements
• Other municipalities’ actions
• Possible local regulations to consider
• Discussion and direction
In response to Mayor Brand regarding the height limit, Community Development Director Forbes stated it is currently 30 feet but limiting the height of a second unit to 16 feet in height one story which would be an objective standard.
Mayor Brand pointed out that this is a huge upzoning for anybody on an R1 lot, adding units to their property and none can be affordable and in lieu fees would be significant. He also asked if other types of fees could be charged. Community Development Director Forbes referred to the lot split specific development fees and suggested a sidewalk improvement fund.
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Councilmember Nehrenheim supported taking out the setbacks and easements. Community Development Director Forbes stated right-of-way cannot be required when requiring the dedication and reducing the size of the lot. She said frontage can be required that has to front public right-of-way, with a minimum of 20-foot width.
Councilmember Nehrenheim suggested an Urgency Ordinance before people start putting in applications.
City Attorney Webb agreed this would be an Urgency Ordinance followed up by a standard ordinance in case the Urgency Ordinance gives challenge.
Councilmember Nehrenheim asked about a Quimby Fee applying on ADU’s. Community Development Director Forbes stated it would apply since it would be a secondary primary unit but she said she will check on ADU regulations.
Councilmember Emdee stated a typical R1 is 50 x 100 feet and if split, there could be two at 25 x 100 feet.
Community Development Director Forbes stated the primary unit would be built like a regular residential dwelling but the second one would only be allowed to be a single story.
Councilmember Emdee also supported not having the second story on the second unit in the lot due to shade and confinement issues. She also referred to the R1A’s which are 25 x 100 feet and Community Development Director Forbes pointed out they could be split technically but the objective standard could only take place if two units are allowed. She also said she will review the lot widths.
Councilmember Horvath pointed out that R1A’s were already lot split and Councilmember Emdee supported a minimum width and access to public right of way be 25 feet. She supported height/stories with one being in the back, no short-term rentals and supported limiting two units per lot. She also cautioned on any challenge regarding fees.
Mayor Brand pointed out this is not affordable housing and is a huge upzoning and stated the developer should pay for any impacts. He also suggested banning investor ownership, and pointed out that the schools are full.
Councilmember Emdee supported replacement of a tree rather than just paying for it.
Councilmember Obagi asked if it is possible to restrict the sale of transfer of residential property in Redondo Beach for the purpose of dealing with affordable housing crisis and prohibit people from transferring to nonindividuals. City Attorney Webb noted there will be claims against the City for a regulatory taking, diminishing the value of the properties.
Councilmember Obagi expressed concern with Golden Hills and the Golden Triangle which are 25 feet which can be split. Community Development Director Forbes stated the structure can be demolished as long as it is not an affordable unit or had a renter, creating two lots or a duplex.
In response to Mayor Brand, Community Development Director Forbes stated If the lot is split, the properties can be under separate ownership or conveyance.
Councilmember Obagi stated an LLC can be formed with each having a 50% interest. He also said if a violation takes place against the City’s law, the neighbor could sue them on a nuisance or other theory due to noise, etc.
Community Development Director Forbes stated staff can include language that fees will be established in the Master Fee Schedule which is adopted by resolution separately.
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Mayor Brand pointed out that the City does not have a tree ordinance.
Councilmember Obagi urged Councilmembers to get involved at the state level to restore power for local land use.
Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment.
Holly Osborne stated 4 is the maximum, stated she has written letters regarding lots on the 25 x 100 lots and the difficulty, and didn’t receive any answers except from Ben Allen, and also spoke to Steven Wortham of the Housing Element who said if it is not profitable, a developer will not do it. She also said not all splitting dimensions and locations are the same.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Vickie Kroneberger read the comments submitted via eComment by:
Brianna Egan, Lester Holte, Mel Guerry, Lezlie Campeggi, and Edward Giordano There being no further comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
Mayor Brand noted Redondo Beach being very dense with an incredible diversity of housing, and have already split R1 lots, doing a fantastic job meeting the housing needs. He also questioned having no affordability requirements in SB9 and A27. He further pointed out that property tax is the number one cost driver for the City.
Councilmember Nehrenheim thanked Ms. Osborne for all of her help and input. He also suggested having some of the things regarding SB9 in the WHEREAS clauses such as 4 is 4.
Councilmember Loewenstein did not agree with building more houses which will lower the housing prices, noting Phoenix house process have rose 25% in the last year. He also said lower interest rates and jobs are driving the housing prices and a new chip plant is also being built, creating new jobs. He also said the tech jobs are driving the price, not a lack of supply. He further pointed out that Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated areas in the world with one of the most expensive housing prices.
Councilmember Emdee believed there is opportunity to buy a home in Redondo Beach which is very interest rate-dependent.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to prepare an Urgency Ordinance consistent with the recommendations presented by Community Development Director Forbes in consultation with the City Attorney, to include all comments presented by City Council. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
P.2. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF MAYOR APPOINTMENTS TO VARIOUS BOARDS
AND COMMISSIONS
Mayor Brand gave a report and recommended approval for Scott Behrendt of District 5 and Gale Hazeltine of District 1 on the Planning Commission and Roger Light of District 5 on the Recreation & Parks Commission.
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Councilmember Obagi supported North Redondo representation and thanked the Mayor for his appointments.
Mayor Brand called for public comment via Zoom and eComment. There being no comments, Mayor Brand closed the public comment period.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to approve the Mayor’s appointments. Motion carried, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: Horvath
ABSENT: None
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
In response to Councilmember Nehrenheim, City Manager Witzansky stated the 4th of July 2022 discussion will be coming to Council in December/January. He also reviewed Community Services Department referrals coming back to Council.
Councilmember Loewenstein asked for an update on the railings repair at the harbor.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Nehrenheim, to have a discussion in February/March regarding potentially obnoxious noises past 10 p.m. and before 7 a.m. for non-commuter purposes and other loud noise items. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Nehrenheim, Loewenstein, Horvath, Obagi, Emdee
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Councilmember Obagi requested a BRR at midyear or the next budget regarding shade structures over the play area.
R. CLOSED SESSION – NONE
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – NONE
T. ADJOURNMENT: 10:52 P.M.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, Motion by Councilmember Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to adjourn the meeting at 10:52 p.m. to an Adjourned Regular meeting to be held at 4:30 p.m. (Closed Session) and a Regular meeting to be held at 6:00 p.m. (Open Session) on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California, via teleconference. Motion carried unanimously, with no objection.
All written comments submitted via eComment are included in the record and available for public review on the City website.
Respectfully submitted,
MINUTES – CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
____________________________________
Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk