MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Minutes
Redondo Beach City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m.
6:00 PM - REGULAR MEETING
A. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Redondo Beach City Council was called to order by Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim at 6:07 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California.
B. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Emdee, Horvath, Loewenstein, Obagi (via teleconference), Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim
Councilmembers Absent: Mayor Brand
Officials Present: Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk
Michael Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Vickie Kroneberger, Chief Deputy City Clerk
Councilmember Obagi confirmed the agenda was posted at his remote location.
C. SALUTE TO THE FLAG AND INVOCATION
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim, the audience and Councilmembers rose to salute the flag followed by a moment of silence.
D. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/ANNOUNCEMENTS
On behalf of Mayor Brand, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim congratulated outgoing and incoming Councilmembers; highlighted some of the City’s major accomplishments within the last few years and thanked outgoing Councilmembers Horvath and Emdee for their service.
D.1 REMARKS BY OUTGOING COUNCILMEMBER, CHRISTIAN HORVATH, DISTRICT 3 Outgoing Councilmember Horvath expressed his gratitude to his parents, his wife, his children and for the opportunity to serve.
D.2 REMARKS BY OUTGOING COUNCILMEMBER, LAURA EMDEE, DISTRICT 5 Outgoing Councilmember Emdee thanked her family and citizens and business of Redondo Beach for their support and for the opportunity to serve; spoke about change being scary but necessary; urged everyone to trust and participate in the process and listed accomplishments in the City by the present and former City Councils.
D.3 ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE BY MAYOR BRAND TO RE-ELECTED CITY CLERK,
ELEANOR MANZANO
MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim administered the Oath of Office to re-elected City Clerk Eleanor Manzano.
City Clerk Manzano expressed her appreciation to Redondo Beach voters, her family and friends, City Council, the City Attorney, City Manager and City staff.
D.4 ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE BY CITY CLERK ELEANOR MANZANO TO CITY
TREASURER-ELECT, EUGENE SOLOMON
City Clerk Manzano administered the Oath of Office to City Treasurer-elect Eugene Solomon.
City Treasurer Solomon expressed his appreciation to Redondo Beach voters; spoke about working together for common goals and discussed previous accomplishments.
D.5 ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE BY CITY CLERK ELEANOR MANZANO TO COUNCILMEMBER-ELECT, PAIGE KALUDEROVIC FOR DISTRICT 3
City Clerk Manzano administered the Oath of Office to Councilmember-elect Paige Kaluderovic.
Councilmember Kaluderovic thanked Redondo Beach voters and her family and looked forward to beginning the work.
D.6 ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE BY CITY CLERK ELEANOR MANZANO TO COUNCILMEMBER-ELECT, SCOTT BEHRENDT FOR DISTRICT 5
City Clerk Manzano administered the Oath of Office to Councilmember-elect Scott Behrendt.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked his family, City Council and Redondo Beach voters, discussed his goals and stated he looks forward to working for the betterment of the City.
RECESS- IN HONOR OF NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim called for a recess at 6:44 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 7:13 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Obagi (via teleconference), Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim
Councilmembers Absent: Mayor Brand
Officials Present: Michael Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Vickie Kroneberger, Chief Deputy City Clerk
E. APPROVE ORDER OF AGENDA
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to move Item No. P.1. of the agenda to immediately after Item No. L.1. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
F. AGENCY RECESS – 8:12 p.m.
F.1. REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMUNITY FINANCING AUTHORITY MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
F.2. PARKING AUTHORITY - REGULAR MEETING - CANCELLED
CONTACT: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Obagi (remotely), Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim
Councilmembers Absent: Mayor Brand
Officials Present: Michael Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
Vickie Kroneberger, Chief Deputy City Clerk
COUNCILMEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilmember Loewenstein congratulated all of the newly electeds; thanked Public Works for the pavement work on Beryl, District 2 and District 3 and announced the District 2 community meeting will be held on April 24, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., via Zoom.
Councilmember Kaluderovic announced an upcoming community meeting; noted more information will be provided next week and thanked the City for welcoming her.
Councilmember Obagi congratulated new Councilmembers; thanked outgoing Councilmembers for their service; commended the Planning Commission, especially Commissioners Hazeltine and Lamb, for considering the Catalina Village project.
Councilmember Behrendt announced the District 5 community meeting on April 19, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at the Redondo Beach Performing Art Center.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim announced the District 1 community meeting will be on April 8, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. at Alta Vista; discussed an upcoming Zoom community meeting and thanked Public Works for the paving work on Avenue I.
G. BLUE FOLDER ITEMS – ADDITIONAL BACK UP MATERIALS
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to receive and file Blue Folder Item for Agenda Item No. J.1, as presented. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to approve the Consent Calendar, as presented, except for Item No. H.3., which was pulled for separate consideration. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
H.1. APPROVE AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 4, 2023
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
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. This item was pulled by Councilmember Kaluderovic for separate consideration.
H.4. APPROVE CONTRACTS UNDER $35,000:
1. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH SARAH STRATON FOR PARENTING CLASS INSTRUCTION IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $34,900 (ESTIMATED EXPENDITURE FOR FY 2022-23 IS $2,000) FOR THE TERM APRIL 4, 2023 TO DECEMBER 31, 2024.
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.5. PAYROLL DEMANDS
EFT/ACH $8,673.16, PD. 3/3/23 (PP2305)
EFT/ACH $389,808.05, PD. 3/15/23 (PP2305)
EFT/ACH $8,673.16, PD. 3/17/23 (PP2306)
EFT/ACH $380,853.02, PD. 3/23/23 (PP2306)
REPLACEMENT DEMANDS 261386-261387
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE DEMANDS
CHECKS 107978-108136 IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,292,704.71
EFT CALPERS MEDICAL INSURANCE $403,442.47
DIRECT DEPOSIT 100007037-100007133 IN THE AMOUNT OF $90,512.08, PD.3/30/23
REPLACEMENT DEMANDS 107976-107977
CONTACT: WENDY COLLAZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR
H.6. APPROVE CITY COMMISSION APPLICATION DEADLINES FOR NEW TERMS AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the City Council set Friday, June 9, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. as the deadline for receiving applications (http://www.redondo.org/commissionapp) for appointment to City Commissions;
2. That a notice regarding all vacancies be published in the official newspaper of the City of Redondo Beach, posted at City Hall’s bulletin board outside near the Council Chambers and on the City’s website;
3. That a meeting be scheduled on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. to interview applicants for vacant positions;
4. That Councilmembers submit their recommendations for appointment to the Mayor by Wednesday, August 2, 2023;
5. That the Mayor make Commission appointments at the Regular City Council meeting of Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.; and
6. That the City Clerk administer the Oath of Office to new and returning Commissioners at the regular City Council Meeting of Tuesday, September 5, 2023 and that the City Clerk schedule a Commissioners orientation to be held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023.
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
H.7. ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY, RESOLUTION NO. CC-2304-035, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF
REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE CITY ENGINEER TO PREPARE AND FILE A REPORT PURSUANT TO THE LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ACT OF 1972 SECTIONS 22500 ET SEQ. OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE DESCRIBING THE
MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT OF STREET LIGHTS AND LANDSCAPING IN THE CITY MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2023 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2024
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.8. APPROVE THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS
ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (METRO) FOR THE
REDONDO BEACH TRANSIT CENTER AND PARK AND RIDE PROJECT (LACMTA MEASURE M PROJECT ID# MM 5508.05 AND CITY PROJECT NO. 20120), TO EXTEND THE LAPSING DATE OF FISCAL YEAR 2019-20 FUNDSTO JUNE 30, 2023
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.9. APPROVE FINAL TRACT MAP NO. 82903 (FOR A FIVE-UNIT RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM PROJECT AT 217 S. PROSPECT AVENUE) AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY CLERK TO CERTIFY
MAP APPROVAL
CONTACT: TED SEMAAN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
H.10. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH VECTOR RESOURCES, INC., DBA VECTORUSA, TO
PROVIDE SURVEILLANCE CAMERA CONFIGURATION, MAINTENANCE, AND OPERATIONS
SERVICES FOR THE REDONDO BEACH TRANSIT CENTER FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $93,229.01 FOR THE TERM APRIL 5, 2023 THROUGH APRIL 4, 2026 CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
H.11. APPROVE AFFORDABLE HOUSING DOCUMENTS FOR THE SALE OF 2750 ARTESIA BOULEVARD, #115, REDONDO BEACH, CA 90278, INCLUDING THE AGREEMENT
CONTAINING MODERATE INCOME COVENANTS, RESTRICTIONS AND OPTION TO
PURCHASE, THE SUBSTITUTION OF TRUSTEE AND FULL RECONVEYANCE DOCUMENT, AND
RELATED ESCROW INSTRUCTIONS
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
H.12. APPROVE THE REQUEST FROM THE FRIENDS OF REDONDO BEACH ARTS FOR USE OF THE HISTORIC LIBRARY IN VETERANS PARK FOR THE SEPTEMBER CA 101 2023 ART EXHIBITION CONTACT: ELIZABETH HAUSE, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER H.13. APPROVE THE SEVENTH AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH RINCON CONSULTANTS, INC. FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW SERVICES FOR A PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PROJECT TO BE LOCATED AT 100-132 N. CATALINA AVENUE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $20,668 FOR A NEW TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $232,417 AND TO EXTEND THE TERM THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2023
APPROVE THE FOURTH AMENDMENT TO THE REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT WITH CATALINA FUND, LLC. FOR THE REIMBURSEMENT OF CITY COSTS RELATED TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PROJECT AT 100-132 N.
CATALINA AVENUE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $20,668 FOR A NEW TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $278,142
CONTACT: BRANDY FORBES, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Councilmember Kaluderovic pulled Item No. H.3. for separate consideration.
MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Councilmember Behrendt announced he will abstain on Item No. H.3., as he was not involved in prior meetings.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Kroneberger reported one eComment was received regarding the Consent Calendar.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Kroneberger read title to Resolution No. CC-2304-035.
I. EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
H.3. APPROVE THE FOLLOWING CITY COUNCIL MINUTES:
A. OCTOBER 18, 2022 ADJOURNED & REGULAR MEETING
B. NOVEMBER 1, 2022 ADJOURNED & REGULAR MEETING
C. NOVEMBER 15, 2022 ADJOURNED & REGULAR MEETING
CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim explained those who were not present at meetings can still participate in voting for meeting minutes.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to approve Item No. H.3., as presented. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered, with Councilmembers Behrendt and Kaluderovic, abstaining.
J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Niki Negrete-Mitchell, District 3, Founding Member, Redondo Beach Quality of Life Coalition, congratulated new Councilmembers; shared her experience in living in Redondo Beach; discussed living near the old Harbor right-of-way and plans for the Metro Green Line project and encouraged new Councilmembers to visit her and noted she would love to show them around the area and answer questions.
Lina Carrillo, President, Redondo Beach Professional and Supervisory Association (RBPSA), spoke about City employee bargaining groups and miscellaneous employee salaries; noted the latter runs about 10% below the market rate; discussed recruitment and retention challenges; addressed upcoming budget discussions and asked that City Council be proactive in raising the salaries to market rate and include it as part of the upcoming budget process.
Christopher Wachs, District 2, congratulated new Councilmembers; shared his personal experience with short-term rentals in his neighborhood; suggested extending the occupancy code to a minimum of three months required occupancy for residential zones and addressed enforcement.
Carlos Rubio, President, Teamsters Local 911, welcomed new Councilmembers; recognized City workers present at the meeting; spoke about labor being a business partner with the City; discussed prioritizing decision-making and funds and noted the need to work together towards a better quality of life in the City.
Rita Loy welcomed new Councilmembers and urged working together to towards a better quality of life.
Lezlie Campeggi, District 2, congratulated City Clerk Manzano and City Treasurer Solomon and new Councilmembers; suggested that the City Manager acquaint new Councilmembers to the City’s social media platforms and hoped that after each Council meeting, the Facebook page will be updated with actions taken during the Council meeting the next day and that the Government Chanel be updated with the same information.
MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
There were no other public comments.
K. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Behrendt reported speaking with City staff regarding Item No. L.1. All other Councilmembers confirmed they participated in no ex parte communications.
L. PUBLIC HEARINGS
L.1. PUBLIC HEARING TO SOLICIT INPUT ON PUBLIC SERVICE GRANT RECOMMENDATIONS AND THE DRAFT FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ANNUAL ACTION PLAN.
PUBLIC HEARING PROCEDURE:
a. Open Public Hearing and take testimony;
b. Solicit input on public service grant recommendations and the draft FY 2023-24 Action Plan; and,
c. Continue the Public Hearing to May 2, 2023.
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to open the public hearing.
There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
Community Services Director Harding introduced the City’s CDBG Consultant, Joyce Lee, Michael Baker International and deferred to her for a presentation.
CDBG Consultant Lee congratulated new Councilmembers; narrated a PowerPoint presentation regarding the CDBG program and the Fiscal Year 23-24 Annual Action Plan.
Discussion followed regarding CDBG funding for ramps and the status of replacing City ramps.
Mike Klein, Deputy Public Works Director, stated economies of scale are great when they do larger projects; spoke about price increases and discussed other challenges of the work including grade slopes.
Discussion continued regarding removal of ramps that may not meet current slope and handicap-accessible environments, identifying specific ramps and the senior home improvement application process.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim invited public comments on this item. There were no public comments at this time.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to continue the public hearing to May 2, 2023. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
M. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS - None
N. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION PRIOR TO ACTION
N.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON IMPROVEMENTS AT AVIATION PARK AND
POTENTIAL ADDITIONAL AMENITIES
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Community Services Director Harding narrated a PowerPoint presentation with details of short-term and longterm improvements at Aviation Park and potential additional amenities, providing an update to this Strategic Plan item.
Discussion followed regarding the concrete pad at the front of the gym, potentially building pickleball courts and aquatic centers.
Councilmember Loewenstein said Dominguez Park had not been chosen as a site for the skate park because of the weight of concrete; suggested pickleball courts might be feasible there. He suggested forming a subcommittee to work with an additional city or other joint power organizations to investigate sites, costsharing and the possibility of private/public partnerships.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim commented favorably on the work done at the fields.
Councilmember Behrendt asked about investigating the removal of an existing pool structure that could be under the subject site at Aviation High School and related costs, proposed shared space that would be striped for pickleball purposes, the division of time between pickleball and basketball players, demand for pickleball in the City and the potential for public/private partnerships.
City Manager Witzansky said the plans are to stripe existing basketball courts to include pickleball use.
Councilmember Kaluderovic asked about cost recovery for aquatic facilities, the possibility of placing pickleball pads over the buried pool and existing pools in nearby cities.
Councilmember Obagi asked about the value of the dirt lot on the site; spoke about reevaluating demand once the initially proposed pickleball courts have been installed and requested a status update every few months.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim invited public comments.
Female speaker spoke in support of pickleball; stated they play pickleball in other cities as Redondo Beach has sparse and temporary pickleball facilities; noted cities recognized the demand for dedicated pickleball courts and urged City Council to move forward with installing permanent pickleball courts in the City.
In response to Councilmember Kaluderovic, fees range from free to $15/hr. for use of a court.
Sue Gallagher, District 1, spoke in support of installing pickleball courts in the City and the cost of playing in other cities.
Kelly Mayeda, District 5, spoke in support of installing dedicated pickleball courts in the City and noted the City will be able to recuperate costs, quickly.
Mark Hansen spoke about residents’ desires to have an aquatics center and pickleball courts; wondered about the highest and best use for the specific site; referenced the Harbor Amenities Plan; reported there was a suggestion to install a lap pool in the Seaside Lagoon area; suggested installing wade pools for toddlers or a surf training standing wave pool for training; noted the need for both an aquatics center and pickleball courts and felt the best use of Aviation Park would be a lap pool while the City could install pickleball courts in other sites.
John spoke in favor of an aquatics center; believed the old, buried pool must be dug out before building another one and spoke in support of building pickleball courts at Aviation Park.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim spoke in support of an aquatics center and suggested the Beach Cities Health MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
District should move the idea forward.
Councilmember Loewenstein spoke about the vacant parcel; noted the proximity to the Child Care Center for Northrup Grumman; reported the issue of building an aquatics center or pickleball courts has not been discussed with Northrup Grumman and reiterated his suggestion to form a subcommittee to consider the different options and get input from Northrup Grumman and the community.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to form a subcommittee to reach out to other organizations and the community for their input and consider funding options.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim made a friendly amendment to include consideration of Seaside Lagoon and Councilmembers Loewenstein and Behrendt accepted the friendly amendment.
Female speaker reported that neighbors of Franklin Park have expressed that they do not want pickleball courts installed there and stated that basketball has priority at Perry Park.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Amended motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Behrendt, to form a subcommittee, comprised of Councilmembers Loewenstein and Behrendt, to reach out to other organizations and the community for their input and consider funding options and include consideration of Seaside Lagoon.
There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
N.2. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CITY’S SPECIAL EVENT
AND FACILITY RESERVATION PROCESS
CONTACT: CAMERON HARDING, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Community Services Director Harding narrated a PowerPoint presentation with details of the City’s special event and facility reservation process.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim spoke positively regarding improvements in the processes; discussed reducing costs by bringing in private security instead of using Police Officers for security and thanked staff for making this happen.
There were no other public comments on this item.
Motion by MPT Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to receive and file the report on improvements in the City’s special event and facility reservation process. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
N.3. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE APPOINTMENT OF RETIRED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR CHRISTOPHER BENSON AS A 960 HOUR “EXTRA HELP” CALPERS RETIRED ANNUITANT TO MAINTAIN CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS IN THE
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2304-036, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING AN EXCEPTION TO THE CALPERS 180-DAY WAIT PERIOD PURSUANT TO KOLCALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 7522.56 & 21224
CONTACT: DIANE STRICKFADEN, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES City Manager Witzansky provided details of the Administrative Report. He added that a new IT Director MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
should be on board by mid-May.
Councilmember Obagi commended Chris Benson for IT training.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by MPT Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to waive further reading and ADOPT BY TITLE ONLY RESOLUTION NO. CC-2304-036, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING AN EXCEPTION TO THE CALPERS 180-DAY WAIT PERIOD PURSUANT TO KOLCALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 7522.56 & 21224. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Kroneberger read title to Resolution No. CC-2304-036.
N.4. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR’S
APPROVAL OF AN EIGHTH EXTENSION TO THE EMERGENCY COASTAL DEVELOPMENT
PERMIT ISSUED FOR THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY BEACH
ACCESS RAMP AT ESPLANADE AND AVENUE A TO PROTECT PUBLIC SAFETY RECEIVE AND
FILE THE EIGHTH EXTENSION OF THE EMERGENCY COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT FOR
THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF THE BEACH ACCESS RAMP AT ESPLANADE AND AVENUE
A TO PROTECT PUBLIC SAFETY
CONTACT: BRANDY FORBES, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
City Manager Witzansky presented details of the Administrative Report.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim provided a brief background of the project and explained the ramp will include stairs and will be ADA compatible.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to receive and file THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR’S APPROVAL OF AN EIGHTH EXTENSION TO THE
EMERGENCY COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT ISSUED FOR THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF THE
LOS ANGELES COUNTY BEACH ACCESS RAMP AT ESPLANADE AND AVENUE A TO PROTECT
PUBLIC SAFETY RECEIVE AND FILE THE EIGHTH EXTENSION OF THE EMERGENCY COASTAL
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT FOR THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF THE BEACH ACCESS RAMP AT ESPLANADE AND AVENUE A TO PROTECT PUBLIC SAFETY. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
O. CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Witzansky welcomed our two new Councilmembers and announced today’s launching of the Capital Projects status portal on the City website.
P. MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS
P.1. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE SELECTION OF A LAW FIRM TO
ASSIST WITH DRAFTING BALLOT MEASURE LANGUAGE FOR CHARTER AMENDMENTS
PERTAINING TO THE CITY ATTORNEY POSITION THAT MAY BE PROPOSED BY THE
CHARTER REVIEW COMMITTEE AND CONSIDERED BY THE CITY COUNCIL FOR PLACEMENT
ON A FUTURE BALLOT
CONTACT: MIKE WITZANSKY, CITY MANAGER
MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
City Manager Witzansky presented details of the Administrative Report; addressed consideration by the Charter Review Advisory Committee; discussed the selection and interview process and introduced Michael Colantuono with Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley.
Michael Colantuono responded to questions from City Council regarding his and the firm’s experience in municipal law.
Discussion followed regarding the need for a contract amendment to codify the scope of this specific work and update the hourly rate and the requirement for the City Clerk to write an impartial analysis per the Elections Code because it should not be the elected City Attorney or outside counsel.
Michael Colantuono responded to questions from City Council regarding his level of comfort working with the Charter Review Advisory Committee and reported he is not a political person; has no opinion as to whether a City Attorney should be appointed or elected and stated the client decides the level of service desired.
City Attorney Webb spoke about working with the Charter Review Advisory Committee; noted the consulting attorney is limited to drafting ballot measure language for Charter amendments and the ballot question in addition to ensuring consistency with other sections of the Charter; stated the Committee will settle on what they want for the job language and reported that City Council hires the counsel upon the recommendation of the City Attorney.
Councilmember Obagi felt that if City Attorney Webb is dedicated to a position that is against the measure, it may not be appropriate for him to advise the Charter Review Advisory Committee and stated that matters of policy are to be addressed by City Council and not the City Attorney.
City Attorney Webb stated it is not a policy call, but rather it addresses who gives legal advice and the Charter provides it is the one elected by residents.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim stressed the need to give the Charter Review Advisory Committee the tools to produce a quality product and understand what they are doing, moving forward.
Councilmember Behrendt thanked City Manager Witzansky for going through a thorough selection process and discussed Mr. Colantuono’s qualifications.
In response to Councilmember Behrendt’s questions, Mr. Colantuono discussed the pros and cons of having an elected versus appointed City Attorney; reported an elected City Attorney is responsible to the voters and an appointed City Attorney is constrained by City Council who is constrained by the voters; provided comments on the cases of the Cities of Bell and Cudahy and noted there is the possibility of a city having an elected City Attorney to handle municipal matters and an elected prosecutor to handle criminal matters.
In terms of the latter, City Manager Witzansky reported it would be up to City Council to direct the Charter Review Advisory Committee to consider the option of the having an elected City Attorney to handle municipal matters and an elected prosecutor to handle criminal matters. The item would be a referral to staff to place it on an upcoming agenda for City Council to discuss.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim noted problems when the policies of City Council do not line up with the policies of the elected City Attorney and the latter can do things from preventing policies moving forward.
Councilmember Loewenstein stated he understood that City Council would consider Mr. Colantuono’s qualifications rather than discuss the pros and cons of having an elected City Attorney versus an appointed one, which would be the responsibility of the Charter Review Advisory Committee and subsequently present the matter to City Council to forward to the voters; believed Mr. Colantuono is a great candidate and voiced his support. He added that the policy debate can occur when the Charter Review Advisory Committee MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
presents its recommendations to City Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim opened public comments on this item.
Georgette Gantner, District 2, asked about the start of this subject and about how the Charter Review Advisory Committee was formed.
Councilmember Loewenstein responded to her questions and directed her to view Charter Review Advisory Committee meetings on YouTube or the City’s website.
Andrew Lesser spoke about his involvement in the City; commended City Council on the recent updates to the Charter; believed the appointment of a Charter Review Advisory Committee was unnecessary and inappropriate; that it was a “power grab”; supported the work and achievements of the current City Attorney and voiced his commitment to defeat the ballot measure if it comes to a vote of Redondo Beach voters.
Eugene Solomon, former Member of the Charter Review Advisory Committee, spoke about discussions had at the last committee meeting; reported the committee resolved to recommend having the voters weigh in on the matter, hire an attorney to work on the language only but did not make reference as to how it would be presented to voters.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Kroneberger reported receiving three eComments in opposition to the item.
There were no other public comments.
City Attorney Webb reported the Charter Review Advisory Committee did not substantively discuss the option of hiring a City Attorney and a City Prosecutor and stated direction may be provided under Item No. Q.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to hire Mr. Colantuono to assist the Charter Review Advisory Committee including the recommendations of the Committee and to draft potential ballot measure language to be brought before City Council, for discussion, at an upcoming meeting and that the scope include providing advice to the Charter Review Advisory Committee when the Committee determines that the City Attorney has disqualifying bias.
City Attorney Webb reported that nowhere in the Charter does it allow the Council to determine nor, let alone, delegate to a committee it set up whether or not the City Attorney has a disqualifying bias.
Mr. Colantuono stated he cannot be effective for the City if he is enmeshed in policy debates and suggested that City Council accept City Attorney Webb’s recommendations and believed the impartial analysis should be prepared with legal assistance.
Councilmember Loewenstein re-stated the motion as follows:
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to hire Mr. Colantuono to assist the Charter Review Advisory Committee including the recommendations of the Committee and to draft potential ballot measure language to be brought before the City Council for discussion at an upcoming meeting, and potentially provide support for the City Clerk to write the impartial analysis, should it be necessary. Motion carried unanimously, with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Obagi (remotely), Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim NOES: None
ABSENT: None
P.2. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. CC-2304-037, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. CC-2206-037 BY
AMENDING DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES AS OFFICIAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CITY FOR A TERM COMMENCING APRIL 4, 2023 AND EXPIRING ON JUNE 30, 2023 CONTACT: ELEANOR MANZANO, CITY CLERK
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim explained the need to appoint delegates and alternates for various boards/agencies in which the City is a member and participates.
Regarding the SBCCOG, Councilmember Obagi agreed to be the delegate and an alternate to the ICA.
Councilmember Behrendt stated he would like to be an alternate for SBCCOG.
Councilmember Lowenstein agreed to be the delegate for the Clean Power Alliance and Public Works Director Semaan confirmed he will stay as the alternate.
Councilmember Kaluderovic agreed to be the delegate for SCAG, a delegate for the Education Subcommittee City and School District and the alternate to the South Bay Aerospace Alliance.
Councilmember Loewenstein agreed to be the delegate for the Education Subcommittee City and School District and the alternate for SCAG.
There were no public comments on this item.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Councilmember Loewenstein, to waive further reading of and ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. CC-2304-037, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. CC-2206-037 BY AMENDING
DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES AS OFFICIAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CITY FOR A TERM COMMENCING APRIL 4, 2023 AND EXPIRING ON JUNE 30, 2023, as discussed. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
Chief Deputy City Clerk Kroneberger read title to Resolution No. CC-2304-037.
Q. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REFERRALS TO STAFF
Councilmember Loewenstein asked about consideration of a co-living ordinance; requested a status update on the meeting room at Wilderness Park; asked for BRRs on completing the lower pond and cost estimates, based on recent paving to work on alley ways with a PCI of between 26 and 50, and asked for a discussion regarding the exercise equipment donated by Marriott.
Councilmember Obagi referenced the Pride flag and requested a referral to direct the Community Services Department, together with the Cultural Arts Manager, to announce a competition or invite submission of custom Redondo Beach flags for Pride Month that promote four values including Pride Equality, Unity, Love and Healing to include high school students and have the Public Arts Commission evaluate them and decide on a design for June 2023.
City Manager Witzansky reported the first step in the process is to agendize a discussion on the subject and suggested placing the item on the City Council agenda for April 18, 2023.
Motion by Councilmember Obagi, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim, to direct staff to place a discussion on Council’s April 18th agenda regarding implementation of a contest or request for submissions of custom Redondo Beach Pride flags . There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
Councilmember Obagi requested a referral to staff to contact the Grocery Outlet and CVS on Artesia, to get MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
them to install a bike rack on their property.
Councilmember Behrendt requested BRRs for the cost of removing the existing pool structure at Aviation Park and another regarding the procurement of Fitness Center Equipment for Aviation Park and/or Anderson Park, including the availability of grant money and suggested directing the Charter Review Advisory Committee to consider the City of Long Beach model related to separate, elected officials for a City Attorney and a City Prosecutor.
Motion by Councilmember Behrendt, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to direct staff to place a discussion item directing the Charter Review Advisory Committee to consider the City of Long Beach model related to separate, elected officials for a City Attorney and a City Prosecutor on the April 18th agenda. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim referenced a BRR for Athens Services to perform steam cleaning in areas around the City and asked to place a Manager/Employee review on an upcoming, Closed Session agenda.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to place a review of the City Manager/Employees on the Closed Session agenda for City Council’s first meeting in May. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATION ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
There were no public comments.
Motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Obagi, to recess to Closed Session at 11:01 p.m. to conduct Closed Sessions attended by City Manager Mike Witzansky, City Attorney Mike Webb, Human Resources Director Diane Strickfaden and Deputy Public Works Director Mike Klein. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
R. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION – 11:01 p.m.
R.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:
Yvonne Grace Mallory v. City of Redondo Beach, et al,
Case Number: 23TRCV00540
R.2. 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:
Granush Bkhchadzhyan v. City of Redondo Beach; County of Los Angeles; California Department of General Services, et al.
Case Number: 20STCV29849
S. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION – 11:25 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Behrendt, Kaluderovic, Loewenstein, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim MINUTES – City Council
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Councilmembers Absent: Obagi, Mayor Brand
Officials Present: Michael Webb, City Attorney
Mike Witzansky, City Manager
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
City Attorney Webb announced that relative to Item No. R.2., City Council reached a settlement of a personal injury lawsuit for a payment in the amount of $162,500 by unanimous vote.
T. ADJOURNMENT: 11:27 p.m.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, motion by Councilmember Loewenstein, seconded by Councilmember Kaluderovic, to adjourn the meeting at 11:27 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, April 11, 2023, in the Redondo Beach City Hall Council Chambers, 415 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, California. There being no objections, Mayor Pro Tem Nehrenheim so ordered.
All written comments submitted via eComment are included in the record and available for public review on the City website.
Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Manzano, City Clerk