Minutes
Regular Meeting Harbor Commission
November 14, 2022
A. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A Meeting of the Harbor Commission was called to order by Chair Carlson at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Vice-Chair Bauer, Callahan, Chair Carlson, Chrzan, Kilroy, Light
Commissioners Absent: Callahan (excused), Walters (excused) Officials Present: Greg Kapovich, WED Director
Laurie Koike, WED Manager
Dave Charobee, WED Senior Management Analyst
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG
At the request of Chair Carlson, Commissioner Light led the assembly in the Salute to the Flag.
D. APPROVAL OF THE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Commissioner Light, seconded by Commissioner Chrzan, to approve the Order of the Agenda as presented. Motion carried unanimously.
E. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS - NONE
F. CONSENT CALENDAR
F1. APPROVAL OF AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE HARBOR COMMISSION MEETING OF NOVEMBER 14, 2022
F2. REVISED ACTOBER 0,2UNG MINUTES: SEPTEMBER 12, 2022
Motion by Commissioner Kilroy, seconded by Commissioner Light, to approve Consent Calendar Items F1 and F2. Motion carried unanimously.
G. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR - NONE
H. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
H1. For eComments and Emails received from the Public - None I. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS - NONE
J. PUBLIC HEARINGS
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J1. CONSIDERATION OF AN EXEMPTION DECLARATION AND CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT TO ALLOW THE
EXPANSION OF AN EXISTING RESTAURANT INTO AN ADJACENT TENANT
SPACE ON A PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COMMERCIAL (CC- 1) ZONE AT 136 INTERNATIONAL BOARDWALK.
Senior Planner Antonio Gardea gave a report and discussed the following:
• Types of uses on International Boardwalk that require approval of CUP • The existing restaurant is operating as a legal nonconforming use • An outline of the CUP process
• Location of the building - zoned as CC-1
• Noise impacts to be considered
• No incident reports or complaints filed with the Police Department in past three years • No impacts to residential
• Pictures of the site
• Floor plan
• Expansion - capture another 20 seats
• Net three additional parking spaces would be required with the expansion • Neighboring retail space would be reduced
• A Restaurant is a visitor serving use
• Staff recommendation to approve the CUP
In response to Chair Carlson, Senior Planner Gardea stated that the existing retail tenant will stay in place when the tenant space reduces to accommodate the restaurant expansion.
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich said staff has been discussing the topic of creating a blanket CUP for the International Boardwalk which would accommodate the sale of alcohol and in-turn eliminate the requirement for businesses to seek individual CUP's to serve alcohol.
Senior Planner Gardea said staff supports the expansion of the use and the tenant has demonstrated that they are a responsible business operator, as evidenced by the lack of complaints fielded by the Police Department.
Commissioner Bauer requested clarification on the sizes of the tenant spaces depicted on the site plan. Senior Planner Gardea indicated that the retail space is approximately 500 sf and would be reduced to 250 square feet if the restaurant expansion is approved Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated the City's third party leasing agency was confident that the smaller space could be leased out in the future.
Commissioner Bauer asked what makes the property legal nonconforming. Senior Planner Gardea stated all of the uses require a CUP and said many properties were preexisting before the requirement was put in place, the leases were "grandfathered in", which is a casual term for legal nonconforming.
Commissioner Light asked if there is a storefront upgrade included. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated it is not included with this CUP expansion request but he met with the applicant today to talk about that program and they
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are interested. Any future storefront improvements for the tenant would be processed separately from this CUP request.
In response to Commissioner Light, Senior Planner Gardea said the wall between the two uses today is not concrete or a support wall.
Commissioner Light would like to see the door improved and be consistent with the other two existing doors. He also stated he did not see any construction hours and constraints in the CUP. Senior Planner Gardea stated there weren't any restrictions included and are usually standard Monday through Friday with restrictions on the weekends. He said there are noise restrictions and more restrictions could be put into place but he didn't see a problem with construction impacts with this project.
In response to Commissioner Light, Senior Planner Gardea stated amplified sound is covered under entertainment permits on a case-by-case basis.
Commissioner Light asked the applicant about improving the storefront. The applicant stated yes, noted the wall is nonbearing and is being moved 12 feet with not much noise involved, and part of their overall vision is improving the doors. They plan on pursuing such door improvements with the storefront improvement grant program. He also said they already have an entertainment permit (open-ended). He said they would like to have outdoor dining but noted the upkeep was too involved. He further said their intent is to make all three entrances cohesive. He said their entire front is open and suggested having doors that could roll down to assist with temperature control. He further said there will be two egresses for emergencies. He believed construction can all take place in a day such as on Monday.
Commissioner Light questioned the business becoming a grandfathered nonconforming use if they just started a year ago. The applicant explained if the business sells and the next business owner comes in within three months, the business can just roll over and take over the existing non-conforming classification.
Commissioner Kilroy suggested the hours of operation should be a "shall" and a minimum of operating hours for continuity amongst the businesses, especially the International Boardwalk, noting #10 indicates "may". Senior Planner Gardea said the condition should be a "shall" and supported consistency in the hours of operation for all the businesses.
Senior Planner Gardea also clarified the hours are the outer limits, restricting how late they can stay open.
Commissioner Kilroy suggested consistency with a minimum set of hours, which should be looked at on a wider scope.
The applicant stated the hours of operation are in their lease from the City, stating 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily, mostly for retail, and were open those hours for the first year.
Commissioner Light suggested tabling and agendizing this topic for another general discussion for the harbor and the pier.
Commissioner Kilroy also suggested looking at the hours and the businesses and what would fit best in the model.
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Commissioner Bauer suggested getting feedback from the business owners.
Motion by Commissioner Kilroy, seconded by Commissioner Light, to open the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Commissioner Kilroy, seconded by Commissioner Bauer, to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Commissioner Light, seconded by Commissioner Bauer, to approve the CUP as written. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Kilroy, Chrzan, Carlson, Bauer, Light
NOES: None
ABSENT: Callahan, Walters
ABSTAIN: None
K. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - NONE
L. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
L1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON THE SELECTION OF A DRY BOAT
STORAGE SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE HARBOR COMMISSION
Waterfront & Economic Development Director Kapovich gave a staff report and discussed the recommendation to form a Dry Boat Storage Subcommittee with three volunteers.
Commissioner Light asked who will be on the Subcommittee. Director Kapovich stated himself and three Commissioners.
Commissioner Light asked about pulling in the public. Director Kapovich suggested that would then be considered a work group. He suggested having the Subcommittee but just inviting people in on an as needed basis.
Commissioner Chrzan supported doing pre-work and research, noting that City Council brought up good considerations that need follow-up.
Chair Carlson suggested the Subcommittee go out and research elsewhere and pu ogether an outline of what this looks like and if it is feasible, then presenting to the Cit Council with details and cost benefits.
Commissioner Bauer stated knowing the economics will be important.
Commissioner Kilroy suggested finding out the revenue expected and have a comparison.
He also suggested a comparison to parking revenue per spot.
Commissioner Light stated there are many variables to consider and supported doing pre work before an RFP.
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Motion by Commissioner Kilroy, seconded by Commissioner Bauer, that Commissioner Light, Commissioner Chrzan and Chair Carlson serve on the Dry Boat Storage Subcommittee. Motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENT: NONE
For eComments and Emails received from the Public - None Mark Hansen stated he is available to help and supported the creation of a Subcommittee.
L2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING AN UPDATE FOR THE
KING HARBOR PUBLIC AMENITIES PLAN
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich gave a report, and summarized the recommendations that Harbor Commission provided to City Council for their consideration. He stated all of the recommended changes made by the Harbor Commission were supported and approved by the City Council except for preservation of the existing boat hoist.
Commissioner Chrzan stated the boat hoist area wasn't looked at by consultants and asked how amenities in that spot would be addressed. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated removal of the boat hoist would free up some space for other amenities such as dry boat storage, to name one option. He also said flex open space would be another open-ended option to further explore.
Commissioner Chrzan suggested meeting with the consultant for an hour for them to throw out their ideas. She also said Councilmember Nehrenheim presented a vision regarding the connectivity of the U-shape presenting some options. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated this could play a big part in the restriping of the whole area when the boat launch comes in, adding space for maneuverability or trailer size parking spaces, etc. This traffic and circulation study will be performed before the boat launch is designed.
In response to Commissioner Chrzan regarding SWA reaching project completion, Waterfront and Economic and Development Director Kapovich stated they aren't done yet but are preparing a pitch of the amenities plan, and a brochure to leave at the desks of potential donors/grants (State Assemblymembers, etc.). Commissioners Chrzan and Bauer supported distributing this out in several locations throughout the harbor is important, showing the progress being made in the harbor.
In response to Chair Carlson, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated the Amenities Plan was discussed with the public at the Harbor Commission meeting in September, a City Council meeting in November, tonight's meeting and was also covered in the Daily Breeze.
Commissioner Light expressed concern with SWA misrepresenting some of what the Harbor Commission came up with such as the boat dock location, the ADA, the hand launch, artificial turf, etc. He supported moving ahead but expressed disappointment with the boat hoist not being considered by Council. He also said the major items were included and supported by Council, especially the mast-up dry storage.
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Commissioner Kilroy noted less abled people who might physically be challenged to launch a boat using a boat ramp. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated this was brought up and discussed but the removal was ultimately supported by Council.
Commissioner Light stated the boat hoist was not originally in the Mole B design for the boat launch but was installed because the public wanted it.
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich reviewed the status of projects and indicated they are in the money gathering stage.
In response to Commissioner Bauer, Director Kapovich stated Moonstone Park is already funded with approximately 2.4 million. However, staff continues to seek funding sources for the project. If additional money can be found, then the money currently allotted for Moonstone Park can be used elsewhere within the Harbor.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Mark Hansen, King Harbor Boater, discussed the following:
• Finances on the dry boat storage - wasted discussion, as they don't make money New comments about the hoist usage
• The 9/12 meeting minutes indicating preserving space at Mole B and Moonstone Park which passed 6-0 didn't make it into the 10/18 CC meeting - should provide to City Council
• Private entity to run the dry boat storage may be confusing and will not make money Motion by Commissioner Light, seconded by Commissioner Kilroy, to extend Mr. Hansen's time. Hearing no objection, Chair Carlson so ordered.
Mr. Hansen further discussed:
• Fencing
• Stacked storage views
For eComments and Emails received from the Public - None Motion by Commissioner Light, seconded by Commissioner Chrzan, to receive and file an update for the King Harbor Public Amenities Plan. Motion carried unanimously.
L3. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING PLANNING FOR SEA-
LEVEL RISE
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich gave an update and progress taking place to include:
• 2019 - State passed AB 691 requiring cities to perform Sea Level Rise Assessments
City of Redondo Beach completed the assessment in 2019
• Harbor Commission recommended the city pursue Phase 1 projects identified in the 2019 assessment
• City Council guided staff to create a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan instead of pursuing the Phase 1 projects.
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• In 2020, City Council adopted a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which included an objective to develop a Marina Climate Resiliency Master Plan • Grant opportunity with Coastal Conservancy Group to develop the Marina Climate Resiliency Master Plan
• Put together a proposal - awaiting formal comments
• 2023 should be doable if this comes through
• Plan in place - money available
Commissioner Kilroy reviewed a sea level rise project in Venice, noting other cities are ahead of Redondo Beach on this issue.
Commissioner Bauer stated it is important to continue measuring and tracking. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated the 2019 assessment uses best practice and did look specifically at King Harbor. He explained the options include build up the walls, raise the pad elevations of the buildings, and retreat, costing a total of $300M if the entire area were done.
Chair Carlson asked about a Sea Height Gage in King Harbor and also said the county watches heights on the beaches, and the Coastal Commission has a photographic record.
Commissioner Light suggested federal money with infrastructure needs and then present it to the marina leaseholders. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich suggested when lease terms come up sea level rise costs could be included.
Commissioner Light stated Coastal Commission staff indicated the CP is impossible to figure out and noted it is a very old document. He believed it should be updated and to incorporate everything together to allow for easy reading.
Chair Carlson expressed concern with spending more money, noting there are already many projects. He encouraged thinking creatively such as using interns, engineering classes, etc.
Commissioner Kilroy suggested that money could be used to pay for a staff person.
Commissioner Chrzan asked if there is measurement of the water currently or locally.
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich did not believe so.
Commissioner Chrzan suggested spending a few dollars on sensors to allow for students to at least collect data.
PUBLIC COMMENT: NONE
For eComments and Emails received from the Public: None Motion by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Kilroy, to receive and file a report on planning for sea-level rise. Motion carried unanimously.
L4. HARBOR COMMISSION NOMINATIONS AND ELECTION OF CHAIRPERSON
AND VICE CHAIR
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR
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PUBLIC COMMENT: NONE
For eComments and Emails received from the Public: None Motion by Commissioner Light, seconded by Commissioner Kilroy, to elect Commissioner Bauer for Chair and Commissioner Chrzan for Vice-Chair. Motion carried unanimously.
L5. DIRECTORS REPORT
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich gave a report and discussed the following:
• City Council approved 4t of July Fireworks Show and 5K Run • Public Amenities Plan approved on October 18
• Redondo Beach Travel and Tourism Board presentation and report on the last year and next year goals
• City Council approved free holiday parking at waterfront (December 3 to January 1) • Code of Conduct adjusted - no longer need to read eComments into the record In response to Commissioner Kilroy, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated that the cost of the fireworks show is similar to last year.
Commissioner Kilroy stated there is now a flat fee for the parking and the parking garage was changed to a flat fee, using revenue to offset the cost of the fireworks show.
Waterfront and Economic Development Manager Laurie Koike stated the $75K only covers the fireworks show and the barge, and overtime is not covered. There is a flat fee only for the RB Marina, and $2/hour in the parking structure.
Chair Bauer stated It would be interesting to see how much parking revenue is received that one night versus doing it on a flat rate.
Commissioner Kilroy stated there would be more turnover and more customers at the businesses on the pier by not doing a flat fee.
Commissioner Carlson asked about the status of the big parking lot going to the new pay by meter parking system. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated this is ongoing with upgrades to ADA parking, many items are priced out, and staff is currently researching restriping the lot as-is versus reconfiguration.
Commissioner Carlson suggest going to Council regarding free parking in the pier area on weekdays during the winter and helping businesses with parking.
In response to Commissioner Carlson, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated there is no update on the status of drudging.
In response to Commissioner Chrzan, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich explained that the eComments are available on the website.
M. ITEMS FROM STAFF - NONE
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N. COMMISSION ITEMS AND REFERRALS TO STAFF
Commissioner Light asked about the Sea Bass grow-out. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich suggested bringing in a local expert to review the revenue impacts and costs associated with starting the program prior to bringing the item to City Council for consideration.
Commissioner Light stated the City is currently out of compliance with Measure C with respect to parking. Measure C requires reduced parking rates for recreational users of the waterfront and Commissioner Light asked when this will be addressed. In response, Director Kapovich indicated he was unaware of this requirement and would take corrective action. Waterfront and Economic Development Manager Koike suggested updating the parking resolution that outlines all of parking fees in the harbor.
In response to Commissioner Light, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated there has been no further updates on the skate park Commissioner Light asked about the Harbor Patrol dock replacement. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated the construction hasn't started but there has been no delay.
Commissioner Light asked about the update on Ruby's and On The Rocks. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated that consideration of the CUP's is slated for the next Harbor Commission hearing in December.
Commissioner Light asked about the two bars underneath the pier and making them CUP common. Waterfront and Economic Development Manager Koike stated there hasn't been any movement.
Commissioner Light asked about the Fun Factory status. Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated the tenant space must remain empty for the next year to accommodate access to the adjacent parking structures for seismic retrofits.
Commissioner Light announced that the next BeachLife Festival will be taking place May 5 through May 7, 2023.
In response to Commissioner Chrzan regarding minimum required operating hours for businesses, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich noted inconsistencies between leases, the Muni Code established construction hours, and ability of the Harbor Commission and Planning Commission to impose stricter requirements based on individual projects on a case by case basis. He suggested cleaning up the lease language as a start.
Commissioner Light also noted inconsistencies and supported cleaning up the language to be correct for the future.
In response to Commissioner Carlson, Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich stated the Pier Association could give policy direction, as leases come in, and to make sure the adopted language get revised in the individual leases. He also said that CUP's have specified hours of operation and they are unique to the harbor.
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Chair Bauer stated it is important to understand the mechanism and suggested the lease may not be the best location.
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich supported updating the lease which should coincide with the CUP's.
Commissioner Chrzan supported Information gathering and checking different categories.
Commissioner Carlson supported improving business in the harbor area.
Commissioner Light supported coming up with consistency, and a boilerplate CUP.
Chair Bauer suggested this item could be a referral to staff recommendation.
Waterfront and Economic Development Director Kapovich suggested reaching out to the businesses first, research their situation, and to come back with options to consider.
Commissioner Light announced the Holiday Boat Parade Saturday, December 10 at 5:30 p.m., honoring teachers.
Chair Bauer supported obtaining data on parking revenue and suggested a flat rate may bring in more revenue.
Commissioner Kilroy suggested the parking financing needs to be broken down month by month.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Commissioner Carlson, seconded by Commissioner Kilroy, to adjourn the meeting at 8:25 p.m. to the December 12, 2022 Harbor Commission meeting. Hearing no objections, Chair Bauer so ordered.
All written comments submitted via eComment are included in the record and available for public review on the City website.
Respectfully submitted,
Greg Kapovich, Director, Waterfront & Economic Development
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